iFly - Skydiving

iFly Skydiving - Universal City WalkWhen I decided to go skydiving in Hollywood I did not expect to come back with sore muscles. Skydiving turned out to be a real workout and a great thrill.

Well, I didn’t really jump out of a plane. My wife would kill me even if the jump didn't kill me. Instead, I went to iFly at Universal City Walk – adjacent to Universal Studios. This is an indoor skydiving facility in which they use a huge underground propeller fan to simulate the feeling of skydiving.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Monterey - Point Lobos State Reserve Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is a breathtaking 7-mile stretch of coastline located in Monterey County, California. Known for its natural beauty and ecological diversity, the reserve is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers. Its rugged cliffs, turquoise coves, and dramatic ocean views provide a perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation.

The reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sea lions, seals, otters, whales, dolphins, and more than 250 species of birds. Its rich marine and terrestrial ecosystems make it a hotspot for nature observation and conservation.

Boston Common and Public Garden

Boston Common November - by King of Hearts - Wikimedia 

Exploring Boston is easy and enjoyable with the City View Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley, which connects visitors to the city's most iconic locations. We met the trolley at Marriott Long Wharf, a perfect starting point near the bustling waterfront.

Stepping off the trolley, we entered the Public Garden, America's first public botanical garden, established in 1837. The park was bursting with life—families, couples, and visitors all enjoying the warmth of a spring day. Cherry blossoms framed the iconic footbridge, and swan boats glided peacefully across the pond, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Hoover Dam Tour

Hoover DamHoover Dam is a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas, so you can carve out a few hours and visit this engineering wonder on your own, and we did that many times.

But to get a different perspective and let someone else do the driving, I decided to go with Comedy on Deck tours for a VIP experience that included a visit to the new bypass bridge, the power plant, the visitor center, and a hot lunch.

The tour started with a pickup from our hotel, and we had to endure four more pickups before we were on our way. Our guide entertained us with jokes and a running commentary about Vegas and Hoover Dam. 

Okaloosa Island

Florida Emerald CoastThe island is an extension of the city of Fort Walton Beach. It is a popular tourist area with silver-white sand beaches, luxury condominiums, an aquarium, a boardwalk, and a fishing pier. 

Several beautiful beaches overlooking the bay and the gulf are spread out along the road connecting the island to Destin.

With all the sounds, bayous, and lakes in the area, everyone seems to own or rent a boat to enjoy the clear emerald waters.