How to see Yosemite National Park without a camping reservation

Yosemite National Park

I always dreamed of visiting Yosemite National Park, but found it impossible to get a campsite or a reservation at the hotel. As a result, I had to find a different way to make my dreams a reality. Enter the charming town of Mariposa.

Considered a gateway to Yosemite National Park, your journey begins in Mariposa with a scenic ride on the Yart. As you traverse the picturesque landscapes, anticipation builds for the natural wonders awaiting in the heart of the park.

Upon reaching Yosemite, check out the hotel within the park, offering unparalleled proximity to the breathtaking landscapes. I recommend starting your adventure with a refreshing cocktail at the hotel’s lounge, savoring the ambiance and planning the exploration ahead.

For hiking enthusiasts, discover the trails near the hotel. The Mist Trail, with its mist-kissed waterfalls, provides a thrilling ascent. The majestic Yosemite Falls and the iconic Half Dome offer awe-inspiring views, captivating every nature lover’s heart.

A must-visit is Mirror Lake, reflecting the surrounding granite cliffs and lush greenery. The tranquility of the pond creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and relaxation amidst nature’s beauty.

As you embark on these trails, the splendor of Yosemite’s waterfalls, notably Yosemite Falls, will leave you in awe. The cascading waters create a sensory symphony, enveloping you in the magic of the park’s raw, untouched beauty.

Cap off your day by witnessing the sunset illuminating Half Dome, a colossal granite formation that dominates the skyline. Capture the golden hues dancing upon the rock, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Mariposa, the Yart journey, and the immersive experiences within Yosemite National Park make for an unforgettable adventure. From waterfalls to mirror ponds and iconic landmarks, every step echoes the grandeur of nature, leaving indelible memories etched in your travelogue.

Discovering Milan’s Marvels: A Guide to Sforza Castle, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, Piazza del Duomo, and The Last Supper

Milan: A Tapestry of Culture, Art, and History

Nestled in the heart of Lombardy, Milan stands as a beacon of sophistication, offering a seamless blend of historic treasures, modern elegance, and artistic wonders. Join me as we explore the city’s rich tapestry, uncovering the gems that make Milan a must-visit destination.

Sforza Castle: A Fortress of History and Art

Our journey begins at the magnificent Sforza Castle, an imposing fortress that has witnessed centuries of Milanese history. As you enter the castle grounds, you’ll be greeted by a sense of grandeur and historical significance. Here are a few pieces of advice to enhance your visit:

  • Explore the Museums Within: Sforza Castle houses several museums, each dedicated to different aspects of Milanese culture and art. From ancient artifacts to masterpieces by renowned artists, take your time to immerse yourself in the diverse collections.
  • Don’t Miss Michelangelo’s Pietà Rondanini: One of the highlights within the castle is Michelangelo’s unfinished masterpiece, the Pietà Rondanini. The sculpture’s raw beauty and emotional intensity make it a poignant piece that shouldn’t be overlooked.
  • Enjoy the Courtyards and Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the castle’s courtyards and gardens. It’s a tranquil oasis within the bustling city, providing a perfect place to relax and absorb the surroundings.

Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology: A Tribute to Genius

Dive into the brilliance of Leonardo da Vinci at the Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia. This museum pays homage to the polymath’s contributions to science and technology. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

  • Interactive Exhibits for All Ages: The museum features interactive exhibits that bring da Vinci’s inventions to life. From flying machines to innovative mechanical designs, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the mind of this Renaissance genius.
  • Leonardo’s Workshop Recreation: Step into a recreated workshop of Leonardo da Vinci. Marvel at the meticulous craftsmanship of his inventions, gaining insights into the visionary mind that shaped the course of history.
  • Plan for Workshops and Events: Check the museum’s schedule for workshops and events. Participating in hands-on activities can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.

Piazza del Duomo: Milan’s Beating Heart

No visit to Milan is complete without a stroll through the iconic Piazza del Duomo. Surrounded by architectural masterpieces, this bustling square is the perfect place to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Tips for your Piazza del Duomo experience:

  • Visit the Cathedral: The awe-inspiring Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) dominates the square. Consider climbing to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city.
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Indulge in a bit of luxury shopping at the Galleria, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. Its stunning architecture is a work of art in itself.
  • Street Performances and Events: Keep an eye out for street performances and events that often take place in the square. These unexpected delights add a dynamic touch to the Piazza.

The Last Supper at Cenacolo Vinciano: A Glimpse into Masterful Artistry

A pilgrimage for art enthusiasts, Cenacolo Vinciano (The Last Supper) is a masterpiece that transcends time. Ensure your visit to this iconic mural is unforgettable with these suggestions:

  • Book Tickets in Advance: Due to high demand, it’s crucial to book tickets well in advance. A limited number of visitors are allowed at a time, ensuring an intimate encounter with da Vinci’s masterpiece.
  • Admire the Details: The Last Supper is renowned for its intricate details and symbolic elements. Take your time to study the expressions, gestures, and composition that make this artwork a true masterpiece.
  • Respect Photography Rules: Photography is typically not allowed inside the refectory where The Last Supper is displayed. Respect this rule to preserve the delicate condition of the artwork.

Milan’s allure lies in its ability to seamlessly blend history, art, and modernity. From the grandeur of Sforza Castle to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci and the vibrant energy of Piazza del Duomo, the city offers a myriad of experiences for every traveler. As you explore Milan’s cultural treasures, may you find inspiration in the rich tapestry of this Italian gem. Buon viaggio!

All Aboard the Bernina Express: A Winter Wonderland Expedition

Embarking on a picturesque adventure from Trento, Italy, to the enchanting winter wonderland of St. Moritz aboard the Bernina Express is nothing short of a magical experience. As the train winds its way through the snow-covered landscapes, passengers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views, charming cities, and a myriad of winter activities in St. Moritz.

The Journey Begins in Trento

Our journey commences in Trento, a charming city nestled amidst the Italian Alps. The Bernina Express departs from Trento station, and as the train departs, the snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop. The journey is a feast for the eyes, offering uninterrupted views of the Dolomites and the Swiss Alps.

Panoramic Views Unveiled

One of the highlights of the Bernina Express is undoubtedly the panoramic windows that allow passengers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Snow-covered valleys, frozen lakes, and charming alpine villages pass by, creating a mesmerizing scene that feels like a living winter postcard.

Cities Along the Way

As the train makes its way towards St. Moritz, it passes through quaint towns and cities, each with its own unique charm. Tirano, a town in northern Italy, is one such stop. The medieval architecture and cobbled streets offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Crossing into Switzerland, the journey continues through towns like Poschiavo, where the blend of Swiss and Italian influences is evident.

Winter Wonderland Activities in St. Moritz

Arriving in St. Moritz is like stepping into a winter fairy tale. Surrounded by the pristine Engadin Valley, the town offers a plethora of winter activities for enthusiasts. From skiing on the world-famous slopes to exploring the frozen Lake St. Moritz, there’s something for everyone.

  1. Skiing in the Engadin Valley: St. Moritz is renowned for its world-class ski resorts. The Engadin Valley boasts a variety of slopes catering to all skill levels, making it a paradise for skiers and snowboarders alike.
  2. Ice Skating on Lake St. Moritz: The frozen Lake St. Moritz transforms into a giant natural ice rink during the winter months. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of ice skating with the stunning backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
  3. Glacier Hiking and Snowshoeing: For those seeking a more adventurous experience, guided glacier hikes and snowshoeing excursions are available, allowing you to explore the pristine alpine wilderness.
  4. Indulge in Swiss Cuisine: Warm up after a day of winter activities by sampling the delicious Swiss cuisine. Fondue and raclette are must-try dishes, providing a comforting and hearty end to a chilly day.

The Bernina Express journey from Trento to St. Moritz is a symphony of winter delights. From the panoramic views of snow-clad landscapes to the charming cities along the way, it sets the stage for an unforgettable winter retreat in St. Moritz. Whether you’re an avid skier, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene winter escape, this journey promises an experience that will linger in your memories for years to come. All aboard for a winter adventure like no other!

Nashville knows how to party!

If you are looking for a place to spend some quality drinking time with friends or family Nashville is the place. I have been wanting to go to Nashville for a very long time. I heard it was a fun place to with lots of live music. I was not prepared for all that Nashville brings to the table.

We flew into Nashville direct from LAX on Spirit Airlines. I must admit we were quite spirited by the time we arrived in Nashville. The crew was delightful. They greeted all passengers with warmth and kindness. The passengers were in the mood to party. There were groups of friends and families going to Nashville to celebrate all sorts of occasions from bachelorette parties to family reunions. Once the drink cart came down the aisle the festive spirit kicked into overdrive. People were having so much fun they burst into applause when the plane landed because they couldn’t wait to move the party to the next location.

We grabbed an Uber and headed into downtown. We had a room booked at the Cambria hotel on 8th st. What a perfect location! It’s close enough to Broadway to walk to all of the Holy Tonks, but it’s far enough away that you don’t feel the chaos of the Honky Tonks. It’s close enough to The Gulch to walk and enjoy the food, but it’s far enough away that you don’t have to pay The Gulch prices for a hotel room. Also, the gyro stand across the street has the best gyros I’ve eaten outside of Greece. This proved to be extremely beneficial every night after a long evening of imbibing.

I might just be getting old, but I feel that nothing prepares you for the sounds and smells of Broadway on a Friday or Saturday night. Keep in mind that I have spent a New Year’s Eve on Bourbon Street and I was still not prepared for the excitement and chaos that encompasses Broadway. Both sides of the street are lined with honky tonk bars and each one has one band per story playing at the highest volume! I see why the rooftop bars are so popular. They get you away from the chaos and allow you a bird’s eye view of the excitement below.

There’s so much more to Nashville than Honky Tonks and Moonshine. Although, I’m not complaining about either of those wonderful things! While we were there we were able to enjoy a delightful 80s themed burlesque show in Printer’s Alley at Skulls Rainbow Room. The atmosphere was inviting and the drinks were delicious. The place gets packed so make sure you get there early!

If you care for something a little slower, there is a wonderful Jazz room in The Gulch area of town. According to the hostess, it was started because the family that owns it was originally from New Orleans and when they relocated to Nashville they quickly realized there was no place for jazz musicians to play when they came into town. They solved the problem with the establishment of Rudy’s Jazz Room. The cocktails are delicious, the musicians are phenomenal, and you can’t find the vibe anywhere else in Nashville.

There is so much to do and see in Nashville. We spent a week there and barely scratched to surface. If you want my advice, grab your group of friends or your favorite family members and head out on the next Spirit flight to Nashville to create some unforgettable memories!

Two Beautiful Days in Athens, Greece

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of spending a few days in Europe’s 8th largest city Athens, Greece. Our journey began after a grueling 24 hour day of flying and layovers in three different airports. However, the beauty and rich history of the city made it totally worth the travel time. I was also glad we arrived in the evening and were so tired we were able to go right to sleep after a quick meal at the hotel.

We got an early start and since it was a Sunday we encountered little traffic on the road. Our first stop was the site of the first Olympics. Athens hosted the first Modern Olympic Games in 1896.

Then, we headed over to the Acropolis to get there before the crowds. I recommend getting there as early as possible because the crowds can get really dense very fast. Also, be careful because the walkways and steps are incredibly slippery. My husband and I had to escort a fellow traveler to her group because she had slipped, hit her head, and had difficulty getting to her feet. Please take your time and go slowly over the ruins. Otherwise, your vacation might end up in ruin.

It is amazing to stand before the awe-inspiring Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Theater of Dionysus and think they date back to the 6th century b.c.

Down the road is the entrance to Philopappos Hill. A short walk into the park on the right-hand side is a beautiful Orthodox church and a little further down on the left is the site of Socrates’ Jail. I highly recommend making the short trek up to the top of the hill because it gives a fantastic view of the Acropolis.

Church of Aeros Demetrius Loubaudiaris
Socrates’ Jail
View from the hill

We made our way down to Makrygianni and indulged in the best pies I had the entire time we were in Greece. Their Spinach Pie was incredible! I highly recommend it! The couple that owns the restaurant were very kind and explained all of the ingredients and how everything is prepared. They really take pride in their food and it shows!

You MUST try their Spinach pie!

Next we headed over to the Acropolis Museum to learn about the statues and the history of the area. The most exciting part of the museum is the active archeological dig occurring under the museum. It was incredible to witness the layers of human activity under and above the museum.

Then, we walked to the Mitropolees Square for a coffee, continued to the Roman Forum of Athens for dinner, and finished out day one enjoying the Saronic Gulf at Bolivar Beach Bar

We finished our first day in Athens and it was incredible! Day two is sure to be just as action packed!

Bruges: The Ultimate Romantic Getaway

I was super excited to go to Belgium! In my humble opinion, there is nothing more important to happiness than beer, chocolate, waffles, and fries. Belgium is home to all of this and more! I had read a few articles about the beauty of Brussels so we started our Belgium experience there. We took the Eurostar direct to Brussels from St. Pancras in London. We paid for the upgrade to first class so it was a quick and comfortable train trip. We had the entire car to ourselves and enjoyed the view from our fully-reclined wide seats.

Before we left London, my brother-in-law mentioned we should try to get over to Bruges so we made hotel reservations at the Crowne Plaza Brugge and decided to handle the train situation when we arrived in Brussels Central Station. I’m so glad we did because we saved so much money!

We arrived at Brussels Central station and our first objective was to get our tickets to Amsterdam because that was the next leg of our trip and there was a train strike scheduled for some of the days of our trip. We went to the international ticked room and the agents were so kind. They walked us through all of the options available for us. We were originally planning on taking the Eurostar, but found out the local train is only an hour longer, but over half the cost of the Eurostar ticket even with the upgrade to the first class ticket, so we decided to buy the local train ticket to Amsterdam.

Then, we walked further down the head house and found the domestic local train ticket room. Again, we were greeted by the kindest ticket agents. Every agent we encountered acted as if we were the only people in line and took the time to answer every question, outlined all our options, and offered recommendations of places to visit. We were advised that the train to Bruges was only an hour long so paying for the first class upgrade wasn’t worth it. In hindsight, I’m not sure I’d agree. We said we were going to be leaving around noon and the agent said that train isn’t typically busy because most tourists head out at an earlier time. Our train to Bruges was packed! We spent the first leg of the trip standing shoulder to shoulder with other travelers at the end of a car next to the bathroom. Our return trip at 10 a.m. was very different, but the trip there was packed so be advised that you may have to stand for a portion of the trip.

Once in Bruges it was a quick taxi to the hotel. The Crowne Plaza Brugge is in a fantastic location and you can’t beat the price. You are throwing distance to everything you want to see in Bruges.

Bruges is the picture-perfect setting for romance! A well-preserved medieval town with gorgeous Gothic constructions, stunning canals, and delightful charm. There are plenty of inviting streets to wander around in and absorb the whimsy of the city.

There are also plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to enjoy. I highly recommend trying a lace waffle or two! They are almost too beautiful to eat!

Make sure to add Bruges to your travel plans to Belgium. You will not regret it!

NYE London 2023

What a day! We had plans, but they fell through so we were left to improvise and it proved to be a NYE for the books!

We were told that The Brass Rail in Selfridges is a great place for pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup, and latkes. I grew up on Canter’s in L.A. and am a big fan of Sarge’s and Katz’s in NYC (each for very different reasons) so the prospect of trying one of my favorite meals in London was thrilling. We were staying in Westminster, so Selfridges was about two miles from our hotel. We decided to walk and spend some time in Hyde park.

I’m glad we decided to walk because the park is massive and there is so much to take in. It was a beautiful drizzly day and walking through the park in the mist was very romantic.

We arrived at Selfridges and what an experience! The frangirán es that greet you when you walk through the door are some of the finest perfumes in the world. It is quite an intoxicating experience! We found the que and waited for about ten minutes for a table. It didn’t take long for our food to arrive and to enjoy our meal. The matzo ball soup here is a chicken noodle soup with a matzo ball in it. It was delicious.

We finished our meal and explored the department store. By the time we left Selfridges the streets were packed! We had reservations at the Wahaca restaurant in Shoreditch for later, so we decided to take the tube over and find a pub to have a drink while we waited. I had a cocktail with a rhubarb and raspberry gin and it was the most delicious drink I had the entire time we were in London. If you come across this type of gin, give it a whirl, you won’t be disappointed.

We grabbed a couple of street tacos a Wahaca. I was expecting more of a Oaxacan influence in the food given the name, but I was very wrong. I love a good mole sauce and was excited to see what London’s take on it, but there was no mole sauce in this restaurant. I know that growing up in Southern California I am spoiled by the thousands of delicious Mexican restaurants which represent all the different flavors of the different states in México, so I try my best to refrain from criticizing. I did wind up having the halloumi al pastor tacos and they were the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, salty, and savory.

Then, we had the brilliant idea of walking the five miles back to our hotel. We figured we would stop at pubs along the route and have a lovely time ringing in the new year. We were sadly mistaken because our route was entirely obstructed by the fireworks show and almost all the pubs were closed for private parties. We came across an oasis in the middle of our walk. Joe Allen’s in the theatre district proved to be the most incredible place to spend NYE. The staff was incredible kind, the drinks were incredibly strong, and the piano player was incredibly talented. We spent the evening drinking in the merriment of the people around us. If you are ever in the theatre district give this place a try. I can’t speak to the food, but I can to the rest and it was wonderful

Eventually, we had to continue our walk to our hotel. We walked through Trafalgar Square and it was packed with people waiting to see the fireworks. We continued on to Buckingham Palace where we were finally able to cross and made it just in time to see the fireworks. They were gorgeous and the perfect way to bring in the new year. Happy 2023 to you London! Thank you for showing us a great time and to all a Happy New Year! See you in Belgium next!

Holy Fashion, London!

I spent day two traversing the most fashionable markets I have ever visited! I started out taking the tube from the Victoria Station in Westminster to Piccadilly Circus and walking over to Liberty. I am a Southern California native. I have grown up going to the fashion mart and seeing high fashion, but I have never been to anything like Liberty before in my life! It is home to some incredibly beautiful pieces in a beautiful building. The entire place oozes haute couture! The building was built in the 1920’s in classic Tudor-inspired architecture and has been bringing stunning fashion ever since. The building and the fashion are a delight for all!

Then, I walked through SoHo over to Dover street Market. Talk about a place where fashion and art collide! This market is a delight for the senses! It encourages every part of you to engage with what you consider to be fashionable. The layout is inviting and forces you to consider the pieces of clothing as art. I highly recommend spending time in this space to consider the relationship between fashion and art. Not to mention the people shopping and working there all look and dress like models, so it’s delightful people watching as well!

Next, I hopped in the tube and traveled over to Brick Lane for some vintage shopping. I LOVE this area. I am always so inspired by the artists and designers that work in this area. I love the idea of re-purposing and reusing clothing to make beautiful pieces of fashion and the vendors in Brick Lane seem to agree. I have seen so many incredible pieces while visiting Brick Lane that I feel an entire site could be devoted to just the Vintage Market and never run out of material to report on. I have included a couple of my favorite looks I came across while in the Vintage Market.

I feel like anyone who knows anything is going to know that London is a fashion hub, but I had no clue! I learned so much about London fashion today and I look forward to learning more about this incredible place tomorrow.

Day One in London

A last second hiccup in accommodations lead to a stay in a Comfort Inn in a nice area of Westminster. I decided to visit the Tate Modern Museum and Covent Market on my first day because I read online that the building (the former Bankside Power Station) is an unlikely location to find a top-notch art museum.

Tate Modern is incredible! There are so many beautiful pieces created from modern artists from all over the world. The museum is free. There is an opportunity to donate and the recommended donation amount is 5. A steal for what is inside.

After the Tate, I walked over to the Southbank Center for a drink. It was a lovely walk and got some great views of city center and an engagement!

Then, I crossed the bridge over to Covent Market to the Dolce & Gabbana annual pop-up.

Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

A must see along Interstate 70!

After going to Capitol Reef National Park, I decided to stop in Glenwood Springs for a couple of days. I stayed at the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge both nights because included with your stay are passes to the hot springs. The lodge is also perfectly located to enjoy the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves. If you have never been in a vapor cave I HIGHLY recommend it. It is unlike anything I have ever experienced before. Just remember, you can’t stay in the caves for too long and you need to stay hydrated! The accommodations at the lodge are lovely and the staff is very helpful. The pools are extremely relaxing and the slides are fun for the whole family. Stays include a delicious breakfast that is available in the cafe of the hot springs pool area across the street.

There is a bridge that takes you over the river and into the downtown where you can find all sorts of delicious things to eat and drink. The downtown strip is home to breweries, delicious restaurants, and artisanal desserts.

In addition to the hot springs, vapor caves, and adorable downtown you can take a short hike up to Doc Holiday and Kid Curry’s gravesites located in the Linwood Cemetery. The views from the Potter’s Field are gorgeous. It is a bit of a steep hike, but there is a bench placed in the best spot for resting and viewing pleasure. Don’t forget to add a memento to the tree!

Don’t forget to enjoy the views of the hot spring pool on your way back at night.