California – Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley

California – Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Death Valley

If you squint your eyes at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, it is easy to believe you are in the Sahara Desert. Yet, in ever direction, you can see the mountains in the distance that make up the edges of the Death Valley. To be 

California – Badwater Basin, Death Valley

California – Badwater Basin, Death Valley

We visited Death Valley National Park and Badwater Basin for the first time this winter. The days were short, but with only a few people in the park, we got to explore so many areas in a single weekend. The temperature was chilly, especially when 

Utah – Canyonlands National Park

Utah – Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands is the lesser visited sister to Arches National Park. Both are located in Utah, north of Moab and show the dynamic range of results that erosion has on the desert environment. I’ll be honest and say that if I only had one day in 

Arizona – Monument Valley

Arizona – Monument Valley

We almost didn’t go to Monument Valley, while visiting Utah, but boy and I am happy we made the trip. On the drive in, you begin seeing the enormous sandstone buttes in the distance. As you get closer, you try to find the spot Forest 

Utah – Delicate Arch at Sunrise

Utah – Delicate Arch at Sunrise

Delicate Arch is a stunning piece of art in its own right. Delicate Arch at sunrise will actually knock your socks off. Yes, it’s still dark when you wake up. Yes, the trailhead is deep into Arches National Park. And yes, it’s a mile or 

Peru – Machu Picchu at Sunrise

Peru – Machu Picchu at Sunrise

Nothing I write about Machu Picchu could do it justice. No matter when you visit, I am sure that Machu Picchu will knock your socks off. My very humble recommendation is be at the site when it first opens and see Machu Picchu at sunrise. 

Peru – Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Peru – Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu sits deep in the Peruvian mountains. Instead of making a beeline to the site, consider alternative methods to round out your experience. The Inca Trail is a famous route that will allow you to reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. There are 

New Zealand – Napier and Wine Tasting in Hawke’s Bay

New Zealand – Napier and Wine Tasting in Hawke’s Bay

We stopped for a day and night in the cute town of Napier on our route from Auckland to Wellington. Wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay is a must when you are in the area. Napier is famous as being an art deco town. A lot 

New Zealand – Waitomo Glowworm Caves

New Zealand – Waitomo Glowworm Caves

If you are in Waitomo, consider taking a caving tour. There are quite a few glowworm and caving tour companies, but I’m happy we chose Spellbound! We almost went for the blackwater rafting, but ultimately decided to do the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tour. First tours