Paradise is Closer Than You Think

Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico

When we first stepped on the plane for the trip over, I settled in for a nice long ride.  Just four short hours later, we were at our destination and I was in shock!  Traveling to Cabo, Mexico, was a faster trip than one to Las Vegas, Nevada with none of the usual time hangover.  Although we did have to switch planes once in Houston, jumping over the Sea of Cortez made this trip faster than I could have imagined.  Who knew paradise was so close to my own backdoor?

And, a paradise it was!  I had been expecting a lush, green tropical oasis but the stark beauty of the Baja Desert called to me with a song of its own.  Miles upon miles of dry and scrubby cactus were astounding and the heat washed over us like a warm hug--not the squelching humidity of other Mexican hot spots.  The town of Cabo had a wonderful small town feel to it with meandering streets full of local flavors and ware; the food was authentic and incredible; the people, the most hospitable  I've ever met.  In truth, I can think of nothing that distracted from pure perfection.

This is one of those locales that has you questioning the purpose of your life.  Makes you wonder if your job is really that important.  Makes you think that weekend visits with family could easily be turned into yearly skips back home.  Still, months after returning home, Cabo San Lucas calls to me like a siren, inviting me back.

Some places not to be missed:

To Do:

• Sunset Jazz and Wine Cruise on Tropicat Caramaran.  There are literally dozens of choices to take any willing rider out to see the famous Lover's Beach and Arch--pirate boat, sailboat, fishing boat, Sea Doo, etc.  We elected to go on the Tropicat at sunset, a huge catamaran.  While many in the harbor were loading onto mammoth partyboats full of pulsing music and lights, my party and I quietly stepped on this luxurious boat with jazz playing softly in the background.  The trip out and back takes a total of about three hours and the crew is attentive to your every need, filling wineglasses or other mixed drink and keeping the gourmet snacks ready.  While the point of the trip is to see the Arch, the travel back and forth is what is truly breathtaking.  Before we even left the bay, a pod of Orca whales breached in front of us.  While the loud partyboaters were jamming off in the distance, my crew on the sailboat stood perfectly still, watching the majestic creatures play in the water just a few feet from where we stood spellbound.  If that wasn't enough of treat, the local sea lion colony had its lone ambassador at point on a rock, calling out and showing off.  It felt surreal for this Kentucky girl to have witnessed such beauty.  And, all this was before even seeing the Arch, famous the entire world over!  For $75 a couple, this experience is bucket-list worthy.  For more information, see the website Tropicat
• Snorkeling and Mini Sub Dive.  There are many ways to see the waters in Cabo and since swimming is not allowed on the Pacific Ocean due to rough waves, you must travel by boat if you really want to experience the beauty of the surf.  Again, there are dozens of choices but a true once in a lifetime experience is going down under in a Mini-Sub.  The 30-minute independent personal submarine trip will allow you to see ocean life like never before.  Unhampered by masks and hoses, the submarine lets you come in contact with wildlife that even snorkelers can't begin to see, let alone touch.  Again, the personnel on all the attractions are there to please and the entire trip is one of endless drinks and food and fun.  For more information, see the website Oceanus Mini Subs and Cruises
• ATV Desert and Beach Tour.  It is hard to believe that an ocean location is also the site of one of the most beautiful deserts on earth.  This is probably what is most well-known in the area:  miles upon miles of free range ATV and dune buggy tours.  And, when I say free range, you're not following some man-made trail.  You're blazing your own path.  The Rancho Carisuva, an eco-adventure company, sits near the Pacific Ocean and is an authentic Baja Californian ranch with all kinds of animals and plenty of things to ride from horses to ATV's.  Whatever your pleasure, get ready for an experience you could never even have dreamed up.  One minute you're flying over barren desert floors then you're climbing cliff edges then you're skimming along deserted beaches while the spray of the Pacific cools you off.  Of all the things I've done in my life, this was truly the most amazing.  For more information, see the website Rancho Carisuva

To Eat (or Drink)

• Cabo Wabo.  Sammy Hagar's famous Cabo location lives up to its reputation.  Most nights see big name stars and rock bands on the main stage.  On the night we were there, the small stage out front hosted a local band that played some of the finest music I've ever heard.  Sitting under the stars, listening to great music and eating $2 tacos (a variety, all of which were delicious!  My favorite was the barbecue port and pineapple slaw.) was the perfect introduction to Cabo nightlife.  While there, try both signature house drinks--the Waborita and the Wabotini.  For more information, see the website Cabo Wabo Cantina
• Now I can say I've been to the most romantic restaurant in the world!  There is no way even Paris, France could top this place.  The Sunset Da Mona Lisa oozes romance from every terraced balcony and chilled wine glass.  Combine that with gourmet Italian food and breathtaking views and you have it all.  Situated right on the point, the restaurant is only open at sunset and the staff does it up right.  An entire sunset ceremony takes place with gongs and everything.  While all the food looks amazing, we just had to try steaks and fresh veggies grilled on volcanic rock.  For more information, see the website Sunset Da Mona Lisa
• If you're like my husband, you hear Mexican and you think Corona!  Well, don't be so quick to focus on that beer staple.  The Baja Brewing Company can give you something new to appreciate.  Located on the Puerto Paraiso Mall at the Marina, the beer and food is made fresh and right on the premises.  If anything can compete with the views of million dollar yachts and breathtaking waves of the Sea of Cortez, it is the menu which downplays the truly gourmet burger and pub offerings.  Sit outside and you have an entire night's worth of fun watching the eclectic mix of local musicians and travelers from around the world.  For more information, see the website at Baja Brewing Company

NOLA-A Grand Old Dame Starting Her Second Rebirth

New Orleans-The Sinfully, Older, But Wiser, Sister to Las Vegas

My husband and I first visited New Orleans two years after Hurricane Katrina.  We wanted to spend our Bush tax dollars on the place that seemed to need it most and New Orleans needed it more than we did.  Then, it was a surreal drive--acres of wasting homes and stores and hotels.  It truly seemed almost an abandoned city or one that has survived, barely, an explosive bomb.

Today, on our last trip, the change is miraculous.  While some sites still remain vacant and lost in the past, most of the city has seen a remarkable regrowth.  Every street is full of new stores or shops about to open.  The entire city vibrates with excitement, almost as if Christmas is around the corner and NOLA is a child ready to burst loose with excitement!

For those of you who only think of New Orleans in conjunction with Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street, shame on you!  This town is a mecca for those who love history, the paranormal and anything related to fun and relaxation.  While I hear that experience NOLA during those chaotic times is a bucket list item, don't wait to visit.  Right now is the time to go--new hotels, restaurants and museums are open all over the city and are just waiting for that first explosion of tourists.  Young or old, party girl or history buff-NOLA has something for everyone.

Some places that are not to be missed:

To Do:

• The New Orleans Streetcars  I cannot think of a finer way to shed the heat than sitting by an open trolley window, gazing upon Loyola University, stunning parks and antebellum mansions.  All this for $1.25 for a one-way ticket.  It is truly taking a step back in time.  There are three different lines that can take you all over the city and it's an easy hop on and off all day long.  You can buy a $5 ticket per day if you're a true explorer like me!  Three different routes will take you to Canal Street,  Loyola and Tulane Universities, Audubon Zoological Gardens, to the French Market and Aquarium of the Americas.  In between are miles and miles of local owned shops, stores and restaurants that must be seen and tasted and heard to be believed.  A price for the ticket will be the best $5 you will have ever spent in your life!  For more information, check out New Orleans Streetcars
• Museums New Orleans has over 45 museums dedicated to everything from surgical instruments and Napoleon to children and art.  My favorite, by far, was the National WWII Museum.  While I admit to being a bit of a history buff, even my non-history loving husband was blown away by this museum.  We had put aside 4 hours to tour this, and found we had only gone half-through by closing time!  They had to chase us out and lock the doors.  What made this museum so fascinating was the attention to detail and narrative focus.  From the very first, I felt as if I were living during that time and experiencing it all.  It is truly the finest museum we have ever been to and I admit to losing myself for a big chunk of time in the gift shop.  In addition to the museum (which is practically brand-new but already undergoing an expansion), there is also a vintage ice-cream parlor and theatre attached that focuses on the music and dress of that era.  Incredible fun for everyone in the family.  For more information, check out The National WWII Museum
• Ghost, Goblins and Vampires!  Oh My!  What trip to NOLA would be complete without dipping your toes into something forbidden.  And, forbidden abounds in this city, especially at night!  The tours are numerous in this city so name your poison.  You can dabble in the culinary with a chef tour, travel back in time with a walking history and garden tour and even try your hand at ghost busting with a ghost tour.  Me, I decided vampire was the way to go!  Is any city more steeped in vampire lore (besides Transylvania!) than New Orleans?  Anne Rice would certainly agree with me.  Our vampire tour guide led us through dark streets and alleys and spilled the secrets of New Orleans that an average tourist would never know.  From the oldest pirate bar in the US to serial killer houses, our vampire tour focused on the weird and absurd.  Our guide, with requisite filed teeth (at least, I THINK they were filed) took us on a two-hour tour that proved to me that New Orleans can keep the title of 'most haunted city in the US.  To schedule your own brand of sin, visit Haunted History Tours

To Eat (or Drink):

• When In Rome,  Lafitte's Blacksmith Bar makes up in ambiance what in lacks in food.  This is purported to be the oldest continually operating bar in the United States and is a mecca for history buffs.  Any given night will find hordes of tourists and a dark corner has some amazing local music.  While the drink is nothing to rave about, one should visit just to say you've been there.  For more information, visit Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
• Southern Donuts All Day and Night  You simply cannot visit New Orleans and NOT try the beignets and chicory coffee.  At all hours of the day, all year long (except for Christmas and the occasional hurricane), Cafe Du Monde is doing it right since 1862--serving up mounds of fresh beignets with pounds of powdered sugar.  We went when the temperature was approaching 100 degrees at night!  But to bite into the first, incredible taste defies description.  No matter how far away, we found our way back each night.  If you do nothing else, do this.  For more information, visit Cafe Du Monde
• Beering It Up  The Crescent city Brewhouse is the only brewery in the French Quarter.  In addition to four unique brews, the brewery also hosts a restaurant in the French Quarter that serves incredible food and drink with walls full of local art and live jazz.  The food tastes so much better than pub fare.  The Cajun meat pies have to tried and then washed down with the hottest Bloody Mary this side of Hades.  If your tongue isn't numb by then, keep right on going to the Crawfish Etouffe.  For more information, visit Crescent City Brewhouse

Venice Beach, Florida

It seems hard to believe that a one-hour drive from Orlando is such a world away from the hectic crazy Florida lifestyle.  If you're looking for the Florida of your grandparent's or parent's era, look no farther.  Venice Beach, Florida is like stepping back in time, stepping out of the rat race and stepping into pure relaxation.

Venice Beach is primarily known as a retirement location for snowbirds but should be seriously considered as your next Florida vacation.  This locale has it all:  pristine, uncrowded beaches; quaint downtown with unique shops (where else can you find an entire store devoted to just olive oil so far from Italy?); an abundance of restaurants; tourist attractions that feature history, mystery and more--and all that without long lines of cars on every street!

The beach itself is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen.  Miles of turquoise blue water and uncrowded sand all hidden behind untouched dunes.  While the water can be chilly and choppy on some days, that much is true of any beach location.  The best part was doing something I had only dreamed about as a small child:  hunting for shark's teeth!  It is one of the only locations I've ever seen where we actually found one!  Locals say the teeth aren't as plentiful as they used to be, but industrious diggers can still get lucky!

The beach is a mecca for all ages:  in the daytime families with young children build sandcastles and frolic in the sun and at night, teenagers playing cornhole and volleyball compete for space with retired groups playing guitars in old-fashioned sing-alongs drinking wine. 

Some places that aren't to be missed:

To Eat: 

• While at the pier, make sure to check out Sharky's On the Pier.  You can eat right on the ocean front while listening to music.  Make sure to get there early as there will probably be a waiting list anytime you visit.    Trust me, it's worth the wait!  The Brie and Apple Pizza was a culinary delight and I'm still dreaming of their giant blue maragarita's--the best I've ever tasted anywhere in my travels.   Check out their website for directions and more information:  Sharky's On the Pier
• Snook Haven Restaurant and Fish Camp has to be seen to be believed.  After a drive down a gritty gravel road, you feel like you've driven back in time.  Set right beside the Myakka river, you can enjoy authentic Gator Bites, fried okra and other seafood delights.  They also have live entertainment many days and nights and take pride in featuring local artists.  After eating, there is a riverboat cruise the whole family can enjoy.  And, if you're a movie buff, this place claims to be the site of a 1930's Tarzan movie.  After visiting, I agree that Tarzan would be right at home in this jungle!  Check out their website for directions and more information:  Snook Haven Restaurant and Fish Camp
• What trip to Florida is complete with orange juice?  How about a place that combines fresh-squuezed juice with ice-cream?  Make sure to visit Nokomis Groves in nearby Nokomis, Florida.  This family run establishment is part-factory and store and part-ice cream parlor.  With every citrus flavor you can imagine, Nokomis is always busy so be sure to give yourself plenty of time.  And, bring a cooler.  They sell fresh-squeezed orange and grapefruit juice that will make you redefine what juice is.  Check out their website for directions and more information:Nokomis Groves

To Do:

• Consignments Galore! Even if you don't like to yard sale or rummage shop, you must stop by one of the dozens (hundreds, it seemed!) used furniture, clothing and rummage stores.  They were on practically every corner and one even specialized in nothing but used books (be still my beating heart!).  Some deals we found:  practically new golf clubs for less than $30, brand name clothing and purses for my brand-happy teenager, silver and marble serving dish ($3-I triple checked the price!).  I could go on and on but delving through the stores was just too much fun.
• For history and botanical lovers, check out The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.  This was about a two hour drive but the drive itself was worth it.  No interstate option but rather a winding sprawl that crossed into small and beautiful downtowns full of treasures as well as riding right along some breath-taking coast.  The Edison estate was home to that famous Thomas and his family and has been restored to astonishing proporations.  Not only the Edison home but also a museum and his workshop as well as the home next door of Henry Ford.  If the museum and homes don't entrance you, the grounds will.  Lush spreads of flowers and trees have to be seen to be believed.  Check out their website for directions and more information:  The Edison and Ford Winter Estates
• Time to Play Tourist!  If you want that cheesy tourist day, check out The Shell Factory and Nature Park in nearby North Fort Myers.  The retail store has every shell you can think of plus rooms and rooms full of inexpensive gifts, mementos and collectibles.  On site, there is a huge zoo with over 350 animals; a fun park with mini golf, bumper boats and paddle boats plus a dog park.  While there, make sure to eat at Capt. Fishbones, located on site.  As much a museum as a restaurant, their fish and chips was the tastiest we had on the whole trip.Check out their website for directions and more information:  The Shell Factory and Nature Park