Search results matching tag 'Hiking'

Try the Kingdom of Breckenridge This Summer

Jennifer — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:52:00 GMT

Seduced by spectacular sunsets and enticed by exciting entertainment, I came to Breckenridge for the winters but stayed for the summers. In doing so, I discovered a small town with big city conveniences, such as free transportation, pedestrian friendly streets, and a plethora of exciting activities for the body, mind and soul. Some come to Breckenridge for a piece of the action; others, for piece of mind. Winter chills excite, but summer serenity entices. Come visit!

Welcome To My World

The Town of Breckenridge is committed to preserving its history and heritage. Victorian architecture remains Victorian, and ultra modern eyesores are, thankfully, strictly forbidden. Nothing labeled "historic" can be demolished. You see those run down shacks on Ridge Street? No, they're not the habitats of snowboard instructors who have recently broke up with their girlfriends and are now homeless! Each shack has its story, which you can learn by taking the Historic Walking Tour sponsored by the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance, or by taking a horse and buggy tour by Mountain Man Carriage Company. Aside from the shacks, you can explore some stunning Victorian homes on French and Harris Street. You can even arrange for a Victorian tea in one of the stately homes! Information regarding these tours can be found at the Breckenridge Visitor's Center on Main Street. There's an interactive museum in the rear, which features films and photos about Breckenridge's history as a mining that evolved into a popular ski area.

History comes to life in Breckenridge. This can be scary! Male visitors to the Prospector Restaurant on Main Street often report visions of a mysterious woman. Don't be afraid. She will not harm you. It's only the ghost of Sylvia, a former resident of The Prospector Inn. While the 1860s brought many men to Breckenridge is search of gold, Sylvia came prospecting for a husband. Sadly, her prospects were dim. Paraphrasing local writer Beth Jahnigan, "The odds were good, but the goods were odd." Plus que ca change, it's the same mishagosh. (Translation, with apologies to the French and Yiddish languages: The more things change, the more they remain crazy). However, the odds are changing. The male to female ratio is becoming equal, and many residents, while iconoclastic, are exciting, artistic and multi-faceted. Local iconoclasts hang out at the Gold Pan Saloon on Main Street. Built in 1879, the Gold Pan holds the most continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi. The upstairs of the Gold Pan was a "house of ill repute," which was once frequented by judges and lawyers from the nearby courthouse. There are rumors of a tunnel that ran from the courthouse to the Gold Pan, which assured the anonymity of these visits.

In June, we celebrate Breckenridge history at the Kingdom Days Festival. When Breckenridge was founded in 1859, it was inadvertently left off the map. The area became known as the Kingdom of Colorado. Each year, we celebrate this slight with free walking tours, historic reenactments, and, giving whole new meaning to the phrase, "gotta' go," outhouse races!

Drama Kings and Queens

Couldn't make it to the Cannes Film Festival? No worries! Come to the three-day Breckenridge Film Festival in June. Although some of the indie films might be, shall we say, esoteric, the parties are fantastic! Meanwhile, the Backstage Theatre on Ridge Street presents a fantastic repertory of summer performances, and the Riverwalk Center holds its annual music festival. Not the artsy type? Let's go out and play!

Are You Out of Your Mine?

Winter, visitors to Breckenridge ascend 3,000 feet to get to the top of the mountain. Summer, folks descend 1,000 feet to explore the 100 year old Country Boy Mine. If you miss that winter sliding experience, you can slide down the 55 foot ore chute. The Country Boy Mine does have alternatives for the claustrophobic. You can pan for gold at Eureka Creek, or spend time with the baby burros that roam the mining camp. But if you'd rather ride than snuggle, head for the horses!

A Horse is a Horse

Of course, a mountain town like Breckenridge would provide ample opportunities for horseback riding. At the Kingdom of Breckenridge Stables, your horse is your tour guide. He'll take you up a long and winding trail that leads to open mountain meadows and glorious scenery. There is also a sunrise breakfast ride, which features an all you can eat breakfast buffet. But before you over-indulge, keep in mind that Breckenridge subscribes to "leave no trace" rules on our mountain trail--if you get my drift!

By Bike or By Hike

If you're not a horse person, you can explore the mountains of Breckenridge by bicycle. In fact, if you don't want to schlep, the chairlifts are equipped to carry bicycles. Need an adrenaline fix? Consider the Breckenridge 100, an ultra endurance race that takes place in July.

Those who want to explore the mountains unencumbered by bicycles or horses can hike the peaks by foot. Quandary Peak is one of Colorado's 53 Fouteeners, whose elevation exceeds 14,000 feet. The Mail Run follows an old mail route past a ghost town and silver mine. The visitor's center can supply information about hiking and biking trails.

Rafts, Rods and Clubs

Come spring, as the snow melts from the Breckenridge mountaintops, it seeps into the rivers, which pulsate in gratitude. Breckenridge Whitewater, takes advantage of this phenomenon by offering whitewater rafting for all abilities. If you prefer a more serene activity, consider fishing in the unpolluted Blue River.

Fore!

The 27-hole Breckenridge Golf Course was designed by Jack Nicklaus. This award winning course has helped many golfers get their bragging rights. Since thinner air provides less resistance, golf balls hit at higher altitudes go further than a ball hit at a lower elevation. With average summer temperatures ranging between 65 and 80, you can be assured a hot game while staying cool.

Up, Up and Away

If you'd like to fly in a beautiful balloon, Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides provides complimentary transportation from Breckenridge to their location near Wilkerson Pass. As you ascend into thin air, you will be entertained with classical music. Upon your return to earth, you'll enjoy a champagne toast, followed by a sit down breakfast.

Although Breckenridge summers offer a medley of exciting activities, an evening walk through the town is perhaps the most memorable. Observe the lights that illuminate the town and the mountain. "Behold, the Kingdom of Breckenridge!"

This guide to a Breckenridge summer was brought to you by Lisa Marie Mercer.

Hiking in and Around Tahoe: Grab a Bottle of Water and Hit the Trails!

Jennifer — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:07:00 GMT

Hiking is a great way to explore the Sierras mountains around North Lake Tahoe. If you want to get off the beaten path and be a traveler rather than a tourist then take heed. Tahoe is hot and dry in the summer and for this reason there is nothing better than having a nice body of water to splash around in after a hike. Besides the main lake, Lake Tahoe that is, there are many great spots tucked away for a nice swim. The best part is that you don't need permits for any of the following.

Hike up to Mount Judah on the famous Pacific Crest Trail which runs all the way from Oregon to Mexico. (Take Donner Pass Rd. up towards Sugarbowl Ski Resort. Before Sugarbowl, turn left into the parking lot for the Ski Academy. Follow that road about 50 yards back to the Mt. Judah trail-head.) Continue to Tinker's Knob across Anderson Ridge, a narrow saddle that offers amazing views of Donner Lake and wildflowers in the spring. You'll feel like you're soaring like one the hawks you'll most likely see gliding out past the ridge! Afterward, take a flying leap off one of the docks on Donner Lake to cool down.

For the serious hiker you can start at the Mt. Judah Trail-head and hike all the way to Squaw Valley. This will take all day so start early. It is 16 miles with big elevation changes--you will need to bring lots of water. If you're up for it, it's an amazing hike taking you through different environments and varied scenery; you'll feel as though you are covering much more terrain than you actually are--you might even feel like a member of Lord of the Rings!

Another favorite hike of mine is the one to Shirley Lake. Bring a small picnic; it's a cute spot for one.(From Truckee, take Hwy 89 South and turn right onto Olympic Valley Rd. towards Squaw Valley Ski Resort. Just head straight toward their fire station and park the car. Then take the Shirley Lake Trail-head.) What is unique about this hike, aside from being rarely frequented, is that much of it is on exposed rock so you feel like you are mountain climbing. Don't worry--you don't need ropes, just pay attention to the painted arrows on the rock leading the way. You probably won't want to swim in this lake as it's pretty murky but be sure to cool off in one of the natural pools that form in the rocks from the freshly melted snow. Dry off next to this mountain stream by basking in the sun on the hot rocks like one of the native lizards.

If you're feeling like an explorer, try Five Lakes Trail. Short, but steep, it makes for a great leg work out, and the reward is a nice cooling dip at the top.(Turn right off of Hwy 89 onto Alpine Meadows Rd, then continue to a small pullout on your right. There is a wooden sign that marks the trail-head.) The beginning of the trail is the most difficult with lots of switchbacks, but the thrilling middle section on the granite rock is worth it. At the top you will enter Granite Chief Wilderness, a shady forest which attempts to conceal most of the five lakes(there is an obvious one you'll see just to the left of the trail). Have fun exploring or head straight for my favorite. Make a sharp left off of the trail when you've reached the covering of the forest keeping the obvious lake on your right. Cross over the fallen tree and voila, you've come to your own private natural swimming pool!

Two words: Water and Sunscreen!
(You are responsible for educating yourself to the precautions and dangers associated with hiking. I take no responsibility.)

This guide to Tahoe hiking adventures was brought to you by Cara Baker.

Mountain Bike, Golf, and Party All Summer Long in Breckenridge

Jennifer — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 20:21:00 GMT

Walking down the main street of Breckenridge the first thing that struck me was the unusual combination of Alpine chic and American West. A bit like seeing the Matterhorn in a cowboy movie if you know what I mean! Founded in 1859 back in the days of gold mining, Breck certainly has its roots in the old West and today, thanks to its 9600 foot elevation and guaranteed winter snow, the name of Breckenridge is as synonymous with winter sports as any Swiss, Austrian or Canadian resort.

Now though, it's summertime. The snow's gone, the skiers have left town and that same high elevation brings cool fresh mountain air to Breckenridge and Summit County. Like any
resort of its stature, there's plenty going on in town throughout the summer.

Beginning in early June with the Breckenridge Film Festival followed a week later by the Kingdom Days celebrating the town's mining history in the Old West - there's that contrast again - to theatrical and sporting events surrounding the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends, there's no shortage of entertainment here for those who want it. The greatest treasure though of Breckenridge and its surroundings are the hundreds of square miles of wilderness that make up some of the highest parts of the Rockies. The sun warmed meadows, cool scented forests and high peaks where the snow lingers far into summer are a true paradise to the hiker or mountain biker.

The hiking trails range from forest walks suitable for the kids to treks up over the nearby Tenmile Range including one of my favorites, the Colorado "Fourteener" Quandary Peak. The climb is not difficult in summer - just get a weather forecast before going and heed the warnings about storms! For mountain bikers there are trails offering all levels of difficulty, and the fact that Breck was voted one of the best places to take the kids on a bike ride should reassure the less experienced that biking here can be fun. Despite the height of the mountains, it doesn't have to be an extreme sport! Indeed, there are 55 miles of car-free asphalt trails going as far as tranquil Lake Dillon, another of my favorite spots.

Finally, my Dad would never forgive me if I didn't mention golf! The highly rated Breckenridge Municipal Course boasts 27 holes made up of 3 championship nines designed by Jack Nicklaus. Their names of Bear, Beaver and Elk are for very good reason - all three animals have been seen here. Would a 500 pound black bear count as a hazard?

This guide to Breckenridge in the summertime was brought to you by Pete Buckley.

Explore Idaho: Sun Valley is Just the Beginning

Jennifer — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 17:40:00 GMT

Sun Valley is the vacation mecca for the stars of yesterday and today, with the likes of Demi Moore, Clark Gable, Gary Cooper and Arnold Schwartzenegger taking in the highlights. This was the home of Ernest Hemingway and where he wrote many of his books. He and his wife are buried in Ketchum and a memorial in his honor is on Sun Valley Road.

Get out and explore, unplug from the modern life with a stay at Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch in Stanley. There are no phones, TV or radio to distract you from the Valleys and their activities. From the ranch there is horseback riding, a natural hot spring pool, hiking, and fishing. The cabins and lodge rooms have an enchanting western flair that will take you back in time when ranches were the norm.

Whitewater rafting on the Salmon and Snake Rivers can be found in Stanley and Ketchum. There are seven outfitters to choose from with to six day trips in the wilderness. One of the outfitters has arrangements for fishing floating on the calmer waters of the Salmon River.

For the experienced mountain bikers there are challenging single track trails on the 1500+ miles of choices around Ketchum. Trail maps can be found at the local bike shop in town. Sawtooth National Recreation Area has more tracks to ride with guides or alone. Bike rentals and guidebooks are available in Stanley.

From the slopes of Bald Mountain in Ketchum there is paragliding with no "jumping off" for a sky view of the beautiful mountains. Seated next to your pilot, all ages from 3 to 93 can take a ride of a lifetime.

Whenever I want to find my father I just head to the freestone headwaters of Salmon River where he is taking advantage of the fishing. Rainbow, cutthroat, bull trout, steelhead, Chinook and sockeye salmon are plentiful thanks to the efforts of the game rangers.

The reason I come here is for the hiking trails. The canyons and gulches has a wide variety of trails from beginner to the advanced with magnificent views of Boulder, Pioneer, Smoky Bald and Sawtooth Mountains. Park your car at Tyrolean Lodge, cross the Big Wood River Bridge and stay right of the lodge. The trail up Bald Mountain gives full panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. It is about a nine mile hike and such an adrenaline rush.

Ketchum has seven parks: Atkinson, Rotary, Forest Service, Knob Hill, Guy Coles Skate and Ketchum Parks. Atkinson has many sports facilities with a range from tennis to basketball courts to choose from. Ketchum is historically wonderful with the Wagon museum and Bonning cabin that was built in 1882 to browse around.

Ketchum Sun Valley Historical Society Heritage and Ski Museum on the corner of First Street and Washington Avenue has two buildings of exhibits and a great gift shop. Learn about the area's Shoshone Indians, Ernest Hemingway, mining, sheep ranching and war veteran information.

There are two mid-level golf courses with 9-holes in big Wood and Warm River Springs. The top level courses are at Elkhorn (private), Sun Valley in Ketchum and Valley Club at Hailey. Warm River Springs is right along the river so watch for the water hazards.

Arco has the Craters of the Moon National Monument. This crater landscape of rugged black lava was used as a training ground for early astronauts. Permits are required for these hikes, but there are caves in this area for exploring also.

Other points of interest are two ghost towns of Custer and Bonanza that is great for investigating the old mining way of life. Bison Jump is a cliff the Shoshone used in hunting buffaloes, they would just push them over the edge. Challis has Lands of the Yankee Fork, a state park that commemorates the mining era.

This guide to Sun Valley and the surrounding areas was brought to you by Kellea Croft.

Fanny Bridge: North Lake Tahoe's Greatest Gag

Jennifer — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 02:39:00 GMT

In North Lake Tahoe, where the lake spills into the Truckee River, is an unusual feature: Fanny Bridge. Travel guides have often instructed visitors to take advantage of their nature-viewing trip to the bridge and look around, very closely, and see how the bridge gets its name. The famous Mushroom Rock in Kansas may come to mind, if, like some other tourists you start looking around for the giant derriere-shaped land mass. Fanny Bridge must have been named for its surrounding natural resemblance to fannies, right?

Wrong. One of the best photo ops in the city occurs when the sightseers peer down into the Truckee's waters to see the masses of glittering rainbow trout below. Step back a few feet, where you'll see in full view the rounded backsides of the gawkers leaning over the bridge's rails. Aha! Fanny Bridge. UK travelers are somewhat more confused, as they use the word to describe a different part of the anatomy. Be sure and snap a shot if you see a head-scratching Brit.

Fanny Bridge isn't just an elaborate punchline, though. Besides the view and the massive trout - which you can feed - raft rentals are available close by so you can travel downstream yourself along with the fish. The self-guided raft tours allow you to cool off, relax and float the Truckee River for a full five miles, ending at River Ranch Pond. The run takes about two to four hours, and although it's more of a leisurely rafting experience, there are some small rapids. Time your outing just right and you can cap it off with dinner and a drink at the River Ranch's bar and restaurant.

If you want to exert yourself just a tad more, bike rentals are right next to the bridge. The trail is four miles, also ending at river Ranch, and is fairly flat and easy (your whole family can make this ride without complaint). You can return your bikes and pick up your car right at the same spot.

A stop at Fanny Bridge is a no-brainer for travelers who want to spend some time outdoors, but aren't up for backbreaking sports or steep hikes. Plan to spend an afternoon biking or rafting; don't forget to feed the trout, and be sure and make as many jokes as possible about the "view" at Fanny Bridge. Here's one for grandpa: tell him the bridge was designed by Seymour Butts.

This guide to your thirteen-year-old boy's best day in Lake Tahoe was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly.

Emerald Bay: South Lake Tahoe's Scandinavian Jewel

Jennifer — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 02:31:00 GMT

Emerald Bay State Park isn't just the most scenic spot in Lake Taho e; it may be the most scenic spot in the country. In fact, visiting the area might convince you that someone conked you on the head and dragged you to Europe. The bay is an inlet, reminiscent of an Icelandic fjord, carved by glaciers back when mastodons were vacationing in Tahoe. Granite cliffs, towering cedars, plus the only waterfall directly flowing into the lake make this National Natural Landmark the most spectacular camping and hiking destination in the area.

If the view itself weren't enough, the park has some surprises up its pine-scented sleeve. Take a one mile uphill hike to Vikingsholm, and you will be greeted by a sight that appears to have dropped out of the sky: a Viking castle. A 38-room estate, built by serial-millionaire-marrier Lora Knight in 1929, is oddly not incongruous in the woods here. Built of local materials, the fortress seems at home in the Scandinavian-looking bay area.

Knight spared no expense on this project with awe-inspiring features like Nordic fireplaces and dragon's head beams. The whole thing is topped off with a sod roof that sprouts wildflowers every Spring. Inside are Scandinavian antiques -both real and painstakingly crafted museum reproductions - and ceiling paintings. You'll be acting out your favorite scenes from the 13th Warrior with a real Nordic backdrop. Half-hour tours are available, so you can harass the guide with questions like "Where's Beowulf?" or "Do you sell mead?" After the tour, have a picnic at a nearby table. Food lockers are all around the park, so you can stash the makings of a warrior feast for later.

If Vikingsholm puts you in mind of plundering, go jump in the lake -literally- and have a look at some booty. Emerald Bay was designated an Underwater State Park in 1994. SCUBA diving is an archaeological adventure here, where you can view the remains of the shipwrecked boats and barges from over a century ago. Artifacts from the heyday of Emerald Bay resort are also in abundance. With refuse ranging from abandoned sinks to a Model A Ford, you can play underwater I Spy. Keep in mind that this is an archaeological site, so while touching is okay, actual plundering is not. An underwater panel gives further instructions on conserving the area.

When you come up from the crystal clear water, take some more time to explore the park. While the strange surprises in Emerald Bay State Park may distract you momentarily, they still can't compete with the simple beauty of this showcase area.

This guide to Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay was brought to you by Elizabeth Kelly

Have a Down-Home Holiday in Pigeon Forge

Jennifer — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 02:24:00 GMT

For a real down-home country holiday season, Pigeon Forge and the Smokies are right on target! The residents go out of their way to make you feel welcome, and every member of the family is sure to get that wonderful holiday spirit.

The mountains themselves are spectacular in winter. The hardwoods are bare, which makes the white pines and other evergreens really sparkle. At some of the higher elevations, you might even see a dusting of early snow glistening on a few peaks. All along the roadsides, you'll find stands selling pumpkins, Indian corn, apple cider, and Christmas trees. The air will be crisp, with daytime highs in the forties. At night, you might want to find a cozy hearth. The lows in winter are usually in the upper twenties.

Pigeon Forge throws a huge Christmas celebration, starting the first week in November and continuing through February. The town is decked with 5 million lights, and visitors can take a Christmas tour on the town trolley. All sorts of events are held within the city limits, including seasonal music and activities for children. Be sure to check out the live holiday shows at one of Pigeon Forge's famous theaters!

If you haven't finished your shopping yet, you've come to the right place. In addition to plenty of small local specialty shops, the Forge boasts the largest outlet mall in the world, and the after-Thanksgiving sales are legendary! Downtown and at the malls are Christmas shops that specialize in unique ornaments, stockings, trees, and other decorations that can be purchased.

Dollywood gets in on the action, too. The theme park cranks up its holiday celebration on November 8. You'll enjoy the local crafts, foods, decorations, and special Christmas musical shows. You'll get a real feel for what a Smoky Mountain Christmas really means!

Many restaurants in and near Pigeon Forge are open on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, and they offer a wide variety of meals just for holiday diners. Several hotels, condos, and cabins have special package deals during the holidays, too.

While you're in the Smokies, make the drive to Biltmore House, America's largest home. Located in Asheville, North Carolina, this mansion is truly a fairytale castle at Christmas. Huge evergreens dot the front lawn, complete with thousands of twinkling lights. In the Winter Garden, graceful ballet dancers perform, and inside, visitors are taken on a candlelit tour to view the rare ornaments, fresh greenery, crackling fireplaces, and poinsettias that grace the splendid rooms. Choirs and carolers serenade with a host of tunes, including old European carols. A holiday visit to Biltmore House is an absolutely magical experience!

This guide to a Pigeon Forge Smoky Mountain Holiday was brought to you by Holle Abee.

Vacation Like a Millionare Without Spending Millions in Aspen

Jennifer — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 00:41:00 GMT

Aspen, Colorado is the playground of the rich. Celebrities, millionaires, and oil barons own million dollar homes here. And these are just their vacation homes! But guess what? Regular people can vacation in Aspen Colorado and stay here for a lot less money than you would think. You don't have to be a pampered millionaire to vacation in Aspen.

Stay away from the ritzy places like the Ritz Carlton or the St. Regis hotel that cost mega bucks to stay at. When looking for a place to stay in the Aspen, and Snowmass regions, plan on staying at a vacation home that doesn't cater to the wealthy. Stick to the non-celebrity rentals that are within relative walking distance to all the major activities. Start looking now for a vacation rental though. Aspen is a hopping area every season of the year. By the way, bring your camera! You might see some big name celebs here like Heidi Klum, or Bruce Willis.

Staying at a rental home or a condo in Aspen will afford you all the luxuries of home. Only you won't be at home you will be on vacation having a great time! A vacation rental has mega room to stretch out and take it easy without worrying about noisy neighbors. Your entire family can stay at one vacation home. You can't squeeze that many people into an expensive hotel room. There's a kitchen for cooking meals making your vacation more affordable. (Call ahead and ask the homeowner or rental manager to take care of any special considerations such as area directions, or certain movies and DVDs.)

Staying in beautiful Snowmass, you will be so close to all the action that all you have to do is walk out your front door to be in the center of activity. You can even stay a little farther out in Aspen Mountains, but still be within a few minutes drive, or a short walk to having the time of your life. Aspen is well known for its incredible skiing and in the summer and fall there's so much to do, you will have a hard time fitting it all in. Try hiking the Rio Grande, or mountain biking from Aspen to Basalt. Perhaps you'd rather relax in the Hot Springs of Glenwood Springs.

Both Aspen and Snowmass have every kind of restaurant known to a vacationer ranging from casual, to bar restaurants, to more dressy and expensive. Snowmass Village has a lot of quaint stores to shop till you drop. There are a lot of places to dance the night away also. There are tons of nightclubs, and bars all within easy reach of your vacation home. The entire area is absolutely breathtaking and you may even see wild horses, and wild buffalo running free.

Book your vacation rental now to get a great location next to all the action. Stay in Aspen Mountains and get a home that has a great view of all the natural beauty of the Aspen area. Stay in Snowmass and be in the center of activity. Remember to bring your camera, because Aspen is not only the skiing capital of the world, but it is also a celebrity Mecca.

This guide to Aspen was brought to you by Kate Johns.

Have Yourself a Very Maui Christmas

Jennifer — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 03:14:00 GMT

"Lono-i-ka-makahiki" Grateful for the land; happy to be here. If you're going to Maui for the holidays, why not start with Thanksgiving and stay through New Year's? That way, you'll have time to explore the island at leisure. The American holiday of Thanksgiving coincides with the sharing and gratitude of the Hawaiian season of Makahiki. As heartfelt as the prayers of the Pilgrims, native islanders give thanks to the land and ocean that nourish them. Visitors can find their own spiritual, physical, and mental renewal in this sun-kissed island of happiness.

For your Thanksgiving feast on Maui, delight in a turkey basted with tropical pineapple mustard glaze and filled with macadamia nut stuffing. Count on sweet potatoes and pineapple upside biscuits and coconut cream pie or strawberries for dessert. After dinner, hit the beach for a leisurely swim or siesta under the palms.

Thanksgiving is just the beginning of the tradition-laden holidays in Maui. Join the holiday shoppers at native markets buying handmade shell jewelry, tropical perfumes, clothing, and anything else on your loved ones' wish lists. You'll still have to time to pursue your number one occupation relaxing. A swim before breakfast, a horse back ride in the pineapple plantations, perhaps a whale watching trip to see the Humpbacks - these are daily activities in Maui. Mealtimes offer you delightful choices everything from candlelit beach dining on succulent freshly-caught seafood to luaus complete with hula lessons. Or, you can buy fresh produce and fish from the locals and prepare it yourself.

Even though Christmas may be 80 degrees, don't think you have to miss the snow. Visit the annual Banyan Tree and Snow Festival in Lahaina for the annual lighting of the Banyan tree. "Keiki" (children) can frolic in the homemade snow and laugh with the snowman. If it just doesn't seem like Christmas without a hike or bike ride in cold weather, drive to the top of Mt. Haleakala at 10.023 feet where winter temps are often below freezing. For an adventure as fun as Disneyland on Christmas Day, participate in the downhill bike ride.

While children wait for Santa's arrival in an outrigger canoe, adults can decide whether the Christmas meal will be a catamaran dinner cruise or a buffet at one of the many elegant restaurants. On Christmas Eve, you may want to attend the non-denominational candlelight worship service at the Kaanapali Beach hotel. Later, you can gather around a native Norfolk Pine or an imported fir tree to open the presents Santa brought after he was done surfing.

The day after Christmas will find you stocking up on fireworks for the huge New Year's Eve celebration beloved in the islands. The 4th of July pales in comparison to the enthusiasm with which Hawaii brings in the New Year. You're not alone if you find yourself making a New Year's resolution to come back to Maui next year for the holidays.

This guide to the celebrating your holidays in Maui was brought to you by Cynthia Wall.

Puerto Penasco: Thirteen Things to Experience on Your Vacation

Jennifer — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:13:00 GMT

Puerto Penasco, Mexico, better known to gringos as Rocky Point, is a beautiful getaway located between the Sonoran Desert and the Sea of Cortez. Mountain peaks and bluffs surround the area, and it enjoys great year-round weather, with warm temperatures and little rain. Physical, cultural, and historical attractions offer visitors an exciting array of options.

Hiking: Trails in the Pinacate Mountains provide breathtaking views and a great way to discover the area's geographical features. Hiking the volcanic craters is a truly unique experience, too.

ATV Rentals: Tour the surrounding desert on an ATV, or rent one to ride on selected beaches.

Oyster Tour: Visit the oyster farms at Las Conchas for an inside look at this interesting business.

CET-MAR Aquarium: Visitors of all ages will enjoy seeing the shrimp, sea horses, sea turtles, octopus, fish, and sea lions. Programs allow children to touch the sea creatures and learn about their habits.

Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans: Located in Las Conchas, this small museum provides information on Rocky Point's natural history, with outdoor explorations of desert craters, the local estuaries, and the intertidal zone.

Horseback Riding: Horses can be rented at Playa Bonita for a relaxing ride on the beach. The mounts are gentle and dependable. Even first-time riders will have a blast!

La Spa de Penasco: Guests can get a full spa treatment while gazing at the peaceful waters of the Sea of Cortez. Pampering includes pedicures, therapeutic massage, steam showers, facials, and relaxation rooms at this state-of-the art spa.

Pirate Cruise: Kids of all ages will thrill to the parrots, pirates, and priceless treasure aboard a pirate ship. The cruise includes games, dinner, and a rollicking show!

Shopping: Shopping in Puerto Penasco is an adventure in itself! Quaint little shops, beach vendors, and open-air markets sell souvenirs, handmade items, local art, and fresh produce. Head down to the docks to check out the daily catch of fish and shrimp, and prepare your own seafood feast!

Festivals: Local festivals are rich in the diverse cultures brought to Rocky Point from immigrants, along with a strong native Indian influence. These colorful festivities include parades, music, traditional dancing, and fascinating customs, with a dash of wild partying added for fun! Some of the most popular celebrations: Cinco de Mayo, Independence Day in September, Day of the Dead in November, and the Christmas Posadas.

Bird Island: Take a cruise to nearby Bird Island for some great bird watching and to see the island's population of playful seals.

Golfing: Several championship courses can be found in the area, with more on the way. Designers include Forrest Richardson, Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, and Jack Nicklaus, Jr.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: Just a short drive from Rocky Point, this is a wonderful exhibit of rare animals and plants that have adapted for survival in the harsh desert conditions.

This guide to Puerto Penasco was brought to you by Holle Abee.