I wish you were here

Stepping into the Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden feels less like entering a public park and more like wandering into a private, meticulously curated estate. Occupying an entire city block, this horticultural jewel is a sanctuary of quietude and color that remains a cherished secret among locals. Once the site of the grand El Mirasol Hotel, the land was transformed into this living museum thanks to a massive anonymous donation by Alice Keck Park, a woman whose legacy is now written in the petals and leaves of over 75 unique species of trees and plants.

Interesting Fact: Alice Keck Park was the daughter of the founder of Superior Oil Company. She purchased the land anonymously and donated it to the city with the strict condition that it remain a public garden in perpetuity.

Embarking on your inaugural journey to Yosemite? Opt for the Grand Tour, a comprehensive day-long excursion perfect for first-timers.

Let seasoned guides navigate and narrate, as you discover Yosemite's iconic landmarks and plan subsequent adventures.

Intersting Fact: Yosemite National Park spans nearly 1,200 square miles, offering a vast array of natural wonders to explore beyond the usual tourist paths.

The Grand Tour is a fusion of several shorter tours, showcasing the Valley Floor, the towering Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove, the breathtaking views from Glacier Point, and the historic Wawona Hotel and Village.

For tour reservations or more details, reach out to the official Yosemite Tour operator at (209) 372-4FUN. Further information and online booking options are available at YosemitePark.com.

When 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.

My fascination with the world began with a simple, outstretched finger and a breathless exclamation: "Dad! Look!"

I was just a young boy then, but every corner of our neighborhood was a territory waiting to be charted. That insatiable curiosity was a gift inherited directly from my father. He was a man who greeted the unknown with open arms and possessed a rare courage to seek out new experiences. He did not just tolerate my wild explorations; he actively fueled them.

Now, with a lifetime of journeys behind me, that inner fire has not dimmed in the slightest. I still find myself marveling at the delicate patterns of a leaf or the way morning light hits an unfamiliar cobblestone street. Wanderlust is a beautiful, incurable condition, and I wear it proudly.

Big Bear Valley is well known for its winter sports fun. But after the snow melts and the skiers flee the area, a whole new adventure awaits you.

During the summer months, the ski resorts offer more adventures like scenic chairlift rides, slides, and hiking trails.

The valley and mountains around it are full of hiking and biking trails waiting to be explored. Many trails start near the “Big Bear Discovery Center”.