Seattle by Segway

nullSegways are a great way to discover a new town. You can rent a Segway and go on your own, but it is always better to learn from an expert.

I recently went on a tour with “Seattle by Segway” through the waterfront, Seattle Center, Pike Place and other downtown landmarks.

We started with a quick lesson on how to operate the Segway and be safe. Once you learn the basics, the Segway is very easy to operate and much faster than walking.

Heart Rock Trail - Crestline

Heart Rock Hike - the heart-shaped rock at the waterfallI thought I already discovered all the important waterfall hikes in my area, but I was pleasantly surprised by Heart Rock Trail. This is one of the benefits of joining a hiking group like “Hiking-With-Friends”. More about the group later.

The hike took us through the National Forest close to Cresline along a Seely Creek – with a lot of shade and beautiful rock formations.

Tioga Road and Tuolumne Meadows

Sunset at Tuolumne Meadows, YosemiteMost people spend their entire visit at Yosemite Valley and the surrounding area, missing out on wonderful nature and amazing adventures. If you have an adventurous spirit, leave the crowds behind and explore places like Hetch Hetchy Valley and Dam, Tioga Pass, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows.

If you are driving to Yosemite from the east, you will likely experience the breathtaking road through the Sierra Nevada mountains (Hwy 120). The road winds through mountain peaks, meadows, and lakes, reaching an elevation of 9,945 ft. at the Tioga Pass, the highest pass in California. Driving through this pass during winter can be dangerous, and the road is subject to closures.

Dining in Las Vegas

Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars PalaceWhen in Vegas, dining is an indulgent adventure for me. I savor a wide array of cuisines, happily gaining a few pounds in the process.

Grandiose Buffets

I typically steer clear of buffets, wary of their endless temptations. However, in Las Vegas, I make an exception, drawn in by the high caliber of many establishments. Below are some of my top picks.

Fun Fact: Las Vegas buffets are renowned for their extravagant offerings, often featuring live cooking stations and gourmet selections that rival fine dining restaurants.

Tip: When navigating a buffet, think like a gourmet sampler. Try a little bit from each station, savoring small bites to experience the full range, and don't forget to save some space for the sweet finale of dessert.

Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

Waterfall at Silver Falls Oregon
Silver Falls State Park stands as Oregon's premier natural wonder, anchored by the breathtaking Trail of Ten Falls, a nationally recognized canyon trek. 

The park's crown jewel is the South Falls, where a massive 177-foot curtain of water allows hikers to walk directly behind the cascading torrent into a prehistoric carved alcove. 

Nearby, the dramatic North Falls and the mist-shrouded Lower South Falls offer equally immersive "behind-the-falls" experiences, all framed by the towering Douglas firs and ancient basalt cliffs of the Silver Creek canyon.