Discover The Heart Of The Rocky Mountains With This Train Operator

In the world of luxury train travel, Rocky Mountaineer is in a class of its own with their immersive glass-dome coaches. Transcending practical train transportation, Rocky Mountaineer elevated North American trail travel to become a soul-stirring adventure. This iconic train operator interweaves impeccable service, locally-inspired delights, and unparalleled scenic beauty to create an experience that lingers in the memories of travelers for a lifetime.

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Glass-Dome Coaches and All Daylight Train Make For An Incredible Experience

One of the distinctive features of the Rocky Mountaineer is its custom-designed glass-dome coaches, offering panoramic views for passengers to soak in the natural wonders outside. For those seeking an intimate encounter with the landscape, stepping into the outdoor viewing area is an option that brings them even closer to the unfolding beauty.

Moreover, the Rocky Mountaineer ensures a unique travel experience by adopting an "All Daylight Train" approach. Relish the sights by day and retire to luxurious hotels at each destination by night, combining maximum views with maximum comfort. Unlike traditional sleeper cars, this approach allows travelers to indulge in the beauty of their surroundings while enjoying the accommodations of carefully selected hotels.

A Few Must-Experience Routes

First Passage to the West: Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff

The legendary First Passage to the West route, connecting Vancouver, Kamloops, and Banff acts as a modern take on a historical rail journey. They traverse the iconic Spiral Tunnels, cross the Continental Divide, and wind through mountain passes and dramatic canyons. Celebrated as the sole passenger rail service on this historic route.

Journey Through the Clouds: Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper

Venturing through breathtaking landscapes, the Journey Through the Clouds route captivates with scenic valleys, the mighty Fraser River, Hell's Gate, and the magnificent Pyramid Falls. Exclusive to train travel, this route unveils the beauty of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, offering an unparalleled perspective.

Rainforest to Gold Rush: Vancouver, Whistler, Quesnel, Jasper

The Rainforest to Gold Rush route showcases the pristine wilderness, exploring the mountain ridges of Whistler and showcasing hidden alpine lakes and canyons accessible only by train. For the history buffs, this route is dotted with gold rush history and stunning views of Mount Robson. If you are looking for a untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies, this route is for you.

Rockies to the Red Rocks: Denver, Glenwood Springs, Moab

Embarking on a journey from Denver to Moab, the Rockies to the Red Rocks route promises a one-of-a-kind ride alongside the Colorado River. Passing through canyons with steep, rugged rock walls, guests are treated to vistas of mountain grandeur, desert cliffs, and captivating rock formations, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Rocky Mountaineer isn't just a train operator; it's a modern take on luxury travel without the responsibility of daily commutes. The journey itself is the adventure and each night is greeted with a stellar night of sleep in a hotel. For travelers looking to discover the magic of the Rocky Mountains in unprecedented style and comfort, Rocky Mountaineer should be on your list.

Waikiki Beach Marriott Is Bringing Hawaiian Culture To Its Guests

The Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa has two new offerings that get guests engaged with Hawaiian tradition. This isn't like going back to high school world history class, thankfully, but you will learn about the Hawaiian royals, get hands-on with taro, learn how to hula the Hawaiian way, and grasp the symbolism flowers play in Hawaiian culture.

Every Wednesday, the resort debuts a series of classes, led by Culture Advisor Leilani Kūpahu-Marino Kaho'āno, in the brand new Heritage Center with activities offered that include:

• 6 am: Oli, a Hawaiian form of chanting, that allows guests to connect to a part of themselves and learn the importance of breath (it starts on-property and guests venture oceanside to complete the journey)
• 7:30 am: History overview of the royal monarchs that once lived in Waikiki, the history of Waikiki, as well as the global view of Hawaii. Culture Advisor Leilani always finds it important to find out where guests come from so she can find a way they connect to their history
• 8 am: Contemporary hula lesson and dance
• 9 am: Hawaiian language
• 5 pm: Hawaiian floral design

Additionally, guests can now book The Malama Hawaii Package where you can get your hands dirty at the Kualoa Ranch volunteering with taro and then relax at Secret Island:

• 9:20am Malama/Volunteer: Malama ka Aina. This hands-on experience captures the importance of kalo (taro) to the Hawaiian people for sustenance and its cultural tie to Kualoa, and through Hawaiian cultural identity. Depending on need, activities can include thatching of traditional Hawaiian hale (houses), assisting with cleaning, planting, harvesting kalo or stewardship of the mala la'au lapa'au (Hawaiian medicinal plant garden).
• 11:45am - 3:15pm Secret Island: Secret Island is an ideal place to relax after a rewarding morning of Malama, enjoy a bag lunch and play water sports and beach games.
• 3:30pm Depart Kualoa for Waikiki: Appropriate beach wear to include bathing suits, towels, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and water shoes are encouraged.

These two new immersive offerings from Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort and Spa will bring you closer to understanding the Hawaiian culture for a greater appreciation of the Hawaiian islands after your visit.

With This Waterproof Bag, You'll Never Fret Wet Travel Days Again

There is nothing worse than questioning if your gear is going to hold up when you are traveling, especially if it is wet. With my camera gear, I am always over-protective of where I even set my bag down. For clothing, it's annoying to pull out a "fresh shirt" from the bottom of your bag, only to find out that the bench was wet you set your bag on and it soaked through, stinking up that shirt. Thankfully Watershed drybags have developed a material that won't leave you stinking like a park bench.

With the release of Kryptothane Plus into its popular line of drybags, Watershed's bag just changed the game. These bags are airtight, waterproof, durable, and last. Yup, they aren't your typical travel bag falling apart after a few flights. No, these bags are meant to stand the test of time, be tossed around, dunked in the river, dropped out of airplanes, and used for years.

Watershed isn't known for flashy colors or a wide range of packs, they just focus on what works, creating bags that get the job done. However, for the first time in seven years, Watershed is releasing three new colors -- safety orange, royal purple, and smoke green -- coming to their three main recreational lineup of bags.

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Eric Revels, CEO of Watershed, summed up the release of Kryptothane Plus well,  “Founded on a mission to craft USA-made, durable, waterproof bags that protect and keep outdoor adventurers’ gear safe and dry, this material launch is a leap forward to ensure durability for all outdoor adventures... This proprietary material recipe coupled with our new colors shows Watershed continues to innovate and keep up with athletes pushing boundaries.”

You Have To Stay At This Resort In Sedona, It’s Hands Down The Best

Tucked away down by Oak Creek, a stone’s throw from downtown is hands down the best place to stay in Sedona, AZ. L’Auberge de Sedona is the Forbe's four-star resort of Sedona, not just because the grounds are dotted with gorgeous art instillations, the rooms have both inside and outside showers, you can feed ducks by the creek, or all the amenities are eloquently designed. No, that is not why. L’Auberge de Sedona is the place to stay because of their well dressed staff.

From friendly conversations with the valet about what we should do locally to messages and follow-ups about a package to friendly interactions with the maids, the staff at L’Auberge de Sedona went above and beyond the norm. Offering to show off the property, helping carry luggage to the room, a turn-down service topped off a delightful sea-salt caramel truffle each night.

By the second day, the concierge knew my name as I walk in for breakfast, I promise I wasn’t a head-ache on day one. A helping hand was always readily available if I wanted one, but not the kind of hospitality that is in your face and overwhelming. L’Auberge de Sedona balanced elegance and sophistication with grace.

Regardless if it was the morning while walking inside to grab a cup of coffee, the afternoon seeking some activity suggestions, or a midnight property wander after seeking out the Milky Way—yes, Sedona does have night life under the Milky Way if you know where to look—, there was always somebody there with a smile, asking if they can lend a helping hand.

To top it all off, sunset views. While not every room has a balcony view that overlooks the towering, red walls which glow at sunset, you will be able to find a spot on L’Auberge de Sedona property displaying the daily light show Sedona, Arizona is known for. Coming second to the balcony view is a spot along Oak Creek where the trees clear and the sun sets below the horizon line. To get here, take the path down river as far as you can go, if you crossed the bridge and are walking across a rocky outcropping, you’ve found it.

There's Nothing Better Than Cowboy Camping With Friends

Shlepping our packs over our shoulders, we headed out for a night of cowboy camping under the Utah sky. As a group, we only had a single night together, so we wanted to make the most of our time together. For us, that meant sleeping under the stars.

Packing only the essentials, sleeping bag, ground sheet, sleeping pad, some snacks, coffee, and water, we headed for our spot while the expected barrage of silly jokes and friendly banter that comes with old friends reuniting. 

Feeling like daredevils, which we really are not, we tossed on harnesses, roped up, and blasted to the top of a remote arch in the Utah desert. Clipping a handful of bolts along the way, we simul-climbed the 5.2 terrain towards the summit. Our approach shoes served us well, as we stood on top of the arch within the hour of leaving our cars.

Soaking in the 360 views, we tossed down the ground sheets, emptied our breath time and time again to fill up our sleeping pads, played some practical jokes on each other, and watched the sunset from our sleeping bags.

A Handful of Cowboy Camping Tips:

• Check the weather before you head out
• Always bring a ground tarp that is waterproof, this can act as an impromptu tent if the weather changes on you
• Learn about the stars, this will give you something to do as you lay awake, looking toward the cosmos
• Don't forget your stove if you plan on cooking a meal
• Without a tent, you can get colder, so bring a warmer sleeping bag
• If you get cold, slide inside your backpack, this acts like a bivvy sack

As the sun rose, we woke up. Most of us were groggy and had a runny nose, a common occurrence while sleeping without a tent, but the coffee was almost ready. 

Holding a warm cup of joe in our hands, we cheered the warmth of the sun and started packing up our gear. One double-rope rappel and we were ready for a thrilling rope swing before saying, "Until next time, besties."

They Tossed Us The Keys To A Polaris RZR And What We Did Next Was Unbelievable

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw something flying my way. A startled turn in the direction, a pair of keys bounced off my chest and landed in my hands. We had just finished hiking Robber's Roost in Sedona, AZ, and back at the Polaris RZRs we had rented. "It's all yours, enjoy it until sundown. If you break it, you buy it. Otherwise, have fun!" 

With the stamp of approval, our unofficial tour guide had shown us the lack of limitations these side-by-sides have. Bouncing over rocks at speeds that made me grip the seat, I surely thought the RZR was going to snap in half. But, it didn't. Winding around turns, I was convinced we were going to flip. But, we never did. The only thought I had that came true; we would be dirty by the end of the day.

As we said goodbye to our impromptu teacher, Kristin and I stood, looking at each other, dumbfounded that we now had the keys to the top-of-the-line Polaris RZR and only had one deadline, sunset. 

Eyes wide open and jaws ajar, we looked at each other like kids with unlimited access to a candy shop. After a quick row-sham-bow for who got to drive, I plopped into the driver's seat.

Disengaging the parking break and letting the engine roar, we started kicking up dust as we flew down the trail. With no destination, we just looked for fun trails. Zoom down dirt roads, bouncing over boulders, avoiding trees that seem to pop out of nowhere. We were on an endorphin high. 

Kristin figured out how to sync her phone, so, we cranked up the speakers to max and blasted down the trail fueled by ODESZA and Avicii. Our hearts pumping, and nothing could stop us. Mile after mile zipped underneath the tires. Kristin tapped me on the knee.

"It's my turn to drive!" She shouted as FOMO set in.

Nodding back, I parked the RZR and we quickly re-started down the trail as though we were racing the Baja 1000 as a team. Our only limitation, sunlight.

Thrashing back and forth down a particularly rocky stretch of trail, we could see our imposing limitation was only an hour away. Energized from my time behind the wheel, I thought it would be funny to play a song, so I scrolled through the phone connected to the speakers for a John Denver song.

"...take me home, country roads..." now blasted through the speakers as our headlight pointed back to our Polaris Adventures rental shop.

Campfire By Night, Breakfast Skillet By Morning This Portable Fire Pit Does It All

The evening chill was creeping in and night was soon to fall. We were almost done setting up the van for a stay in Sedona's dispersed camping area, but there was one thing left. Our Ranger 2.0 Solo Stove. Pulling this portable fire pit from the back of the van and our pre-chopped wood, we were able to sit by the warmth of the fire before night fell.

Camping in the dispersed sites of Sedona, AZ enjoying a winter camp fire. Photo by Dalton Johnson

A couple of weeks prior to the trip, I was worried. There is a fire ban in Sedona's dispersed camping lands. But, the wording of the fire ban confused me, so, I called the Coconino Forest Service to ask about their ban. A ranger quickly picked up my call and responded to my inquiry as such, "If you have a Solo Stove or similar portable fire structures, you can have a fire. The fire ban is for those looking to build a non-sustainable fire ring and scare the desert landscape." Worries faded away and the stoke was real!

As our first night under the Sedona stars burnt on, we stayed warm. To my surprise, the Solo Stove did not use up much wood. As we roasted marshmallows and attempted to find the big dipper, then the little dipper, and onto Gemini, we only burned one bundle of wood.

After hours of chatting and only one bundle of wood burnt, I guess we are going to need to have more fires, I thought to myself considering we bought four bundles for this trip.

As yawns overtook conversation, we let the fire burn out and headed to bed. While sleeping, an idea came to me on how we can get rid of more wood. Cook over the Solo Stove instead of the van's stove top.

Cooking a breakfast over the fire with a Solo Stove. Photo by Dalton Johnson

Getting my morning fitness in, I chopped some wood to restart the Solo Stove for breakfast. In no time, the flame was burning and I tossed the kettle on top of the skillet. Coffee always comes first. Then came the good stuff. Pancakes, eggs, sausage, all cook perfectly on the skillet. Giving the food an added smoky flavor, I was in heaven as I sat in my chair and watched the sun rise overhead.

Sedona Has Created Some Of The Best Dispersed Camping In The United States

From on top of the van, I watch the golden light creep over the red cliffs, awaken the sleeping landscape, and fill the Sedona desert with warmth. Parked in the dispersed camping areas of Sedona, you can see, in the distance, hot air balloons filling and some floating high in the sky almost every morning. Out here, you can breath, reconnect with nature while camping, and take a slow day without that guilty feeling. Not all dispersed camping feels like this. 

While some cities and towns have struggled to create a space for transient adventure travelers, Sedona has done it well. Carving out a variety of sites throughout the desert, equipped with portable toilets, Sedona's dispersed camping is one of the best in the country, and here's why.

Sedona's Dispersed Camping Is Free, For Now

A few years back, Sedona was overrun by adventure travelers sleeping at trailheads in their vans and the locals were having a tough time accessing the place they loved. Hearing this pain, Sedona acted quickly and established several dispersed camping areas on the outskirts of town.

These areas are free to stay for 14 days, after that you'll need to move to another spot. The convenient part of the dispersed camping zones is their location and access to adventures.

Quick Access To Trails

Tucked away from town, the dispersed camping is located close to the multi-use trails. Within five minutes of driving, from the dispersed camping areas to the west of Sedona, you can be hiking, mountain biking, or zooming down trails in your side-by-side.

Toilets And Spaces

For dispersed camping, the Sedona sites come equipped with amenities that you don't find elsewhere. From clean portapotties to cleared out, semi-flat spaces to park, the Sedona dispersed camping is a pleasure to stay. 

Also, having the spaces zoned out and portable toilets builds into the dispersed camping atmosphere a sense of cleanliness. So, you don't find trash all over the place or feces scattered under rocks like most other dispersed camping areas throughout the US.

As Sedona continues to develop the dispersed camping scene, I am not sure if the stays will remain free, but if they do, come and hang out. Enjoy the access and amenities. Keep the area clean and enjoy the sunrise from your campsite.

You'll Regret Missing This River Spot In Sedona

From picnic benches to river dips, seemingly endless hiking trails to iconic landscape photo locations, Sedona's Crescent Moon State Park is a must-visit spot while traveling to Sedona, AZ. Why? You can do every outdoor activity here while  visually feasting on Cathedral Rocks. If you don't believe me, keep reading and you'll understand.

Photography, Sunset Is Best

If you are a photographer or just love snapping iPhone photos in pretty places to show your friends later, make sure to visit Crescent Moon State Park around sunset. If you have an evening with minimal cloud coverage, from the river located in the middle of the park, you can watch the nightly light show on Cathedral Rocks. This natural display of light changes the rock from red to a glowing orange, sometimes pink with the right conditions. 

Hiking

Few know that Crescent Moon State Park has great hiking because most come for the river and rarely explore beyond the riverbank. However, this trailhead is a great place to start several hikes, all with stellar views of Cathedral Rocks. The most popular hike is a 2-mile out-and-back called Crescent Moon Ranch. You can bring your dog on this trail and it is also a perfect beginner trail running route as it only gains 50 vertical feet.

Riverside Picnic

Crescent Moon State Park is most known for being the perfect picnic spot in Sedona. Why? If you want to spend all day in a kid-friendly location, this is your spot. With picnic benches and large grass areas, you can let the kids run free while keeping a close eye on them. If the temperatures are hot, you walk as a group to the water and take a dip. Looking to stay riverside all day? Not a problem, there are tons of places where you can set out chairs and blankets for a full day at the river.

Swimming In The River On Hot Days

Sedona can get hot, especially on summer days. So, it's paramount that you know where to cool down. If you didn't already know, Crescent Moon State Park is your answer to that. While you do need to pay, between $5-15 to access the park, you can enjoy this swimming hole on hot days. Since Sedona is a desert, there are few places you can access water, so Crescent Moon State Park will be your best spot.

These Four Adventures In Belize Will Blow Your Mind

You may know Belize for its clear ocean waters and colorful beak toucans, but the rich history of Belize can only be appreciated when squishing your toes in the limestone bedrock of an atoll or feeling the humid heat on a stagnant day in the Jungle. How do you access those experiences? Adventure. Traveling to Belize for an adventurous outing will give you access to what this country has to offer and connect to locals who want to share it with you. Here are four adventurous activities to do while in Belize.

Fly Fish for Permit and Bonefish

Do yourself a favor, book a fly fishing guide, and head out to the atoll flats of Belize in search of bonefish and the elusive permit. If you are a first-timer with a fly rod or a salty veteran, walking the flats with a guide will open your eyes to unlocking this landscape. At first, you’ll be stomping around the flats, tripping over the conch shells, scaring away the fish you are hoping to catch and release. But, after a few hours, you will get the hang of spotting “nervous water” marking the presence of bonefish, or quickly identify the splashing tale of a permit, and sneak up on the fish so you can drop a fly in the perfect spot to land your desired target.

Eat A Royal Rat

Queen Elizabeth only visited Belize once and on that visit, she was fed a local delicacy, Gibnut. Which made it in the tabloids back in England dawning the name Royal Rat. From then on, Belizeans proudly display the tabloid with the Queen at the table, eating the Royal Rat. So, embrace a little bit of history and seek out some Gibnut with rice for yourself while traveling in Belize.

Visit The Blue Hole

Is it a tourist trap or is it the Blue Hole? Maybe a little bit of both, but that shouldn’t hold you back from going. When you see photographs of the blue hole from the sky, just know it doesn’t look the same from the water level. The hole is so large, you won’t even know you are overtop of it until your boat captain says, “We’re here.” For some, this might not be ideal, but once you dive under the surface you’ll be amazed. So, two takeaways here:

• If you want to see the blue hole like the beautiful images, take a flightseeing tour
• If you want to experience the blue hole first hand, go snorkeling or SCUBA diving

Take A Tour Through A Mayan Ruin

History buff, or not, visiting a Mayan ruin while in Belize should be on your list. Why? You’ll start to understand just how advanced Central America was before Western populations arrived. Setting foot on the Mayan ruins you gain a perspective of how grand the buildings were they built. Additionally, if you take a tour, you’ll learn about the Mayan use of symmetry and acoustics to amplify the connection between rulers and the gods. 

What You Need To Know About Traveling To Belize Before You Step Off The Plane

Stepping off the plane onto Belize soil, you wouldn't think it is much different than other Central American countries. Everything is kind of the same; arrive at an airport, go through customs, and find a ride to your hotel. But, during my first 24 hours traveling in Belize, I quickly realized Belize is different than most other Central American countries. There was very little resistance when traveling. What does that mean? Keep reading to find out.

The Exchange Rate

Belize's economy has maintained a 2-to-1 exchange rate since 1978 in comparison to the USD, so $2 BZD = $1 USD. So, when you are traveling throughout Belize, you can quickly do the math of swapping currency. Also, USD is widely accepted, so you do not need to exchange your USD for BZD if you do not want to. However, I suggest making the exchange just to see what BZD looks like, they are a much prettier currency than USD. 

Doesn't Feel Like Other Central America Countries

In many ways, traveling to Belize feels like you are in America, not a Central American country. When navigating Belize City, you'll constantly see construction, the buildings are newer, and there is a hustle that reflects American culture. On the flip side, once you leave the city, the people slow down and so does industrialization. Similar to the US. 

Now, don't let the comment above keep you from going to Belize to escape the American hustle, Belize is still an up-and-coming country with a lot of hope, but also a great escape for ex-patriots.

A Few Differences I Immediately Noticed:

• Belizeans play more baseball than soccer
• Belizeans drive bigger cars than other Central American countries
• Tourism leads the country, but most advertisements are for local industry
• Schools are everywhere
• The roads are well-made, but don't have a speed limit

People Speak English

Yup, that is right. Belize is an English-speaking country, so the barrier to entry is low if you are fluent in English. While some of the local accents can be difficult to understand, Creole is a popular language for Belizeans to speak at home, everyone can speak English.

The Atolls Are Out Of This World

If you have the opportunity to leave the land, I highly suggest making a boat trip to experience one of the many atolls of Belize. These limestone "islands" are inhabited by many, but several are also uninhabited land with pristine white beaches. While visiting the atolls, bring a fly fishing rod or a snorkel with fins, as there are endless opportunities to explore the waters in Belize.

Four Things You'll Want To Know Before Flying In A Hot Air Balloon

Riding in a hot air balloon has been a bucket list adventure I have been chasing for the past two years. Some have said, "You have the worst luck out of anyone I have known." But, the good news is, after five attempts, I finally floated across the sky during sunrise over the Scottsdale desert. If you are craving the  experience of floating away in a balloon, here are four things I wish I had known before taking my first hot air balloon ride.

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Your Flight Could Be Rescheduled 

If the winds are not favorable, aka pushing you in a direction that is not safe for landing, you could get a phone call, or text message, saying your flight is delayed or rescheduled. This happens occasionally, so allow yourself to be flexible when booking a hot air balloon ride.

How To Dress

During your hot air balloon flight, you will be exposed to the elements, so bring a few layers as it might be cold, especially if you are doing a sunrise hot air balloon ride. However, when I was flying, I noticed the fire used to keep the hot air balloon filled was very warm, so I had to shed a layer.

The Wind Has The Final Say 

You are not in an airplane that has wings and a motor, you are floating in the sky by a big balloon. The pilots are truly pilots, yup they have to get a license to fly you, but they are at the mercy of the wind. If the wind wants to take you south, you're going south. If the wind wants you to go east, you're headed east. Your pilot with change their altitude accordingly to find a favorable wind direction, but just remember, the wind has the final say.

Things Happen Fast! 

In many ways, hot air balloon rides are a hurry-up-to-wait experience. One second you are looking at the balloon getting filled, the next you’re in the air floating through the sky. You're looking around, getting lost in the landscape. The new perspective of being up high opens your eyes to what's around, then you're told to brace for landing. It's not that a hot air balloon ride is short, it's that you will be engaged and lose track of time.

This Might Be Sedona's Most Photogenic River Spot

The afternoon air in Sedona, AZ had a lingering chill as wound down the scenic Red Rock Loop Road. In the distance, the Sedona cliffs had already started to change colors and if we hadn't dreamed of snapping a photograph from the river bank at Crescent Moon State Park, I would have pulled over here to enjoy the view. Instead, we pushed on. 

My camera bag was already packed, so as soon as we parked, I shouldered my pack and started hiking to "the spot". Crescent Moon State Park is one of the most popular photo locations in Sedona, but the landscape is always changing. The river has highs and lows. The tree colors are often changing, or dropping leaves. Sometimes there are clouds and other days blue skies. So, photographing Crescent Moon State Park is always a unique outing.

Arriving at the initial spot I visualized being good, but it wasn't. The branches had sagged in the recent rains, blocking Cathedral Rocks in the distance. The goal was to capture Cathedral rocks bathing in a golden sunset light showcasing the movement of the river with a long exposure. So, I needed to move on.

Taking off my shoes and swapping to my favorite camera lens, the Tamron 17-28mm, I waded into the water, fearful that I would slip and fall, soaking my camera gear. With each timid step on the slimy riverbed, I cautiously made my way to an outcropping near the swimming area. Typically, this area is swarming with people, but for some reason, it wasn't today.

Stretching the legs of my tripod out, I centered the flowing water to run under the camera. Creating a leading line from the center of the frame directly to Cathedral Rocks. Perfect timing!

The sunlight slowly passed me and illuminated the towering rocks in an orange glow. Slowing down my shutter speed to 1/4 of a second, the water became smooth. I released the shutter, SNAP...

Cerritos Beach Is Baja's Next Surf Escape

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Tucked away an hour up the coastline from, the party capital of the world, Cabo San Lucas, is the growing surf destination of Cerritos Beach. Some may call this cove with a point break and beach break hidden, but others have known about it for years. I started surfing it back in 2001 when there was only an open beach and the big yellow hotel on the point. Now, Cerritos Beach is on the radar, Surfline has a cam and the development is booming. But, that doesn't mean the line-up is getting worse, surprisingly.

If you stack your surfboards on top of your car and take the toll road from the San Jose del Cabo Airport, you'll turn off the highway and be bumping down the road to Cerritos Beach in about 90 minutes. Sadly, you can't sleep on the beach anymore, but there are plenty of vacation rentals to pick from (this one has been my favorite because you can see the breaks from the rooftop deck and it's a 5-minute walk) and a growing infrastructure to support RV and van life rigs. Making Cerritos Beach a perfect place to post up if you are road-tripping the Baja Peninsula. 

Enough about driving and places to stay, let's talk surf.

What Are Cerritos Waves Like?

Cerritos Beach in Baja has two waves; a point and a beach break. The point break is friendly until low tide or big swell. The beach break is where most intermediate surfers will head in search of barrels.

The Point

For most of the year, this is a long-boarding surf spot. The waves are friendly rollers with an easy takeoff. Most of the time you can stand up and hit the nose, but an inside rock that is occasionally pocking through on low tide can make the wave mushy on high tides. A quick note, this rock is easily avoidable, don't worry about it!

If you are looking for surf lessons in Cerritos reach out to CRT Surf School for lessons, they are the best on the beach and act as lifeguards, giving back to the community. When booking a surf lesson, you will learn to surf on the inside of this point.

During the winter months, however, the point is the takeoff zone for the 20-foot bombs that come through the area. I am not lying to you. If Mavericks breaks up in Half Moon Bay, three to four days later, Cerritos Beach will be pumping. I've seen and surfed several days with stand-up barrels off the point.

The Beach Break

The beach break is a fun, and sometimes tricky, spot to surf depending on the sand. Also, the lineup is mixed with locals and tourists. The locals are friendly, but the occasional OC surfer, with a chip on their shoulder, will probably start yelling at some point. Don't mind them. Just find the sandbar and decide if you want to go right, or left, and try to tuck into the barrel.

On big days, this beach break is your obstacle to push through when paddling out to the point. Be safe and fight hard, it's similar to a big day at Ocean Beach. 

Dear TSA, I Have Sinned For My Last 8 Flights With These Red Wing Boots, Here’s My Confession

To the overlords of TSA and those standing in long lines at the airport, for my last 8 flights, I have been traveling in a pair of Red Wing Heritage boots. There are seven, yes seven, eyelets that lace these boots up, and, to take them off, I must undue four of them. Each boot takes at least 20 to 30 seconds to unlace, so I am writing here today to confess that I have backed up the security line with these boots and I don’t know if I will stop.

My sins are self-centered, but ever since I was sent these leather, moc-toe boots to test, I haven’t taken them off. They look great with jeans of any color. They are comfortable for all-day use and when my feet swell, there is plenty of room. The best part, I’ve been complimented more than once on the boots, often leading to deeper conversations. 

Once I am off the plane, these Red Wing Heritage boots have performed well in snowy/icy conditions. Keeping me from embarrassment and my rear end from being nasty bruising. To my surprise, they didn’t overheat my feet while living the beach life in Belize.

The only downside side, boots and shorts don’t really go together, can I get a solution for this before summer comes?

So, for anyone behind me in the security line, or the TSA agent rolling their eyes after looking at my Red Wing Heritage boots, I am sorry. I know that I have broken an unspoken rule of travel engagement, but I don’t see myself changing up anytime soon.

Belize’s Turneffe Island Resort Will Help You Recalibrate And Destress From Day One Of Your Trip In Central America

Rocking across the blue-green waters to the atoll, we soak in the sun radiating down on us from the captain’s deck. He points towards the horizon, we can see a spec in the distance if you squint, “Turneffe, your new home.” I would be staying at Turneffe Island Resort for the next few days to snorkel, fly fish, and settle into the slower pace of island life.

Each day at Turneffe Island Resort was designed with simplicity:

• Wake up and enjoy coffee delivered to the room
• Have breakfast
• Activity one
• Lunch
• Activity two
• Relax and unwind next to the ocean
• Happy hour
• Dinner
• Sleep
• If you didn’t feel like doing something, you could always hang back and read a book, looking out at the ocean.

For the lack of a better word, the structure of the days at Turneffe Island Resort allows for the mind to rejuvenate but keeps the body in motion. A recipe for returning home well-rested mentally and feeling stronger physically.

The staff greeted us as we arrived at the dock and we were shown to our rooms. I was staying in the newly renovated honeymoon villa, so there was ample room to spread out and feel at home. The massive, screened porch had a soaking tub, lounge chairs, room to do yoga, and a table that was perfect for journaling while enjoying my morning coffee—which by the way was some of the best I have ever had at a resort. Inside, the simple yet elegant design continued. A king-size bed, couch, desk, walk-in closet, a shower that could fit ten comfortably, all encased in mahogany ceiling to floor. That isn’t even the best part.

The best part is how the outdoor space was used. Out the backdoor, an outside shower. Off the front porch, I had access to hammocks, swinging beds, and docks that jutted out into the water. Palm trees reached for the skies and the ground was groomed daily, so my tender feet courageously explored the grounds barefooted with ease.

If the entire property wasn’t already an oasis to shed the woes from back home, tucked away on the far side of the atoll, opposite the marina where you arrive, there is a hammock stretched between two palm trees where you swing and soak in the final rays of orange-yellow sunlight as our star dips below the horizon line.

It’s here that I let out a massive exhale, realizing just how much tension I had been holding in my body before arriving. I closed my eyes and took another breath, repeating to myself, “And, this is just the start of day one.”

This Norwegian Cruise Ship Promises You'll See The Northern Lights Or You'll Get A Free Trip

Havila Voyages is pushing the limits of hospitality in more than one way on their four cruise ships. Focused on sustainability, they have built hybrid vessels that can cruise for four hours totally on battery power. This design allows Havila to reduce noise along their voyages so you can actually hear the sounds of Norway. Just take a second to think about that, you can hear the sound of a waterfall or birds chirping from the deck of a Havila vessel instead of the engines roaring. 

Havila Voyages are not stopping with battery power. Havila is also focused on reducing food waste by redesigning the eating experience while at sea with unlimited small portions made to order. Thus far, this design has reduced food waste by nearly 50% the industry standard. Impressive, right?! But, that's not all. 

The true way Havila Voyages is pushing the limits of hospitality is through its Northern Lights Promise program.

What Is Havila's Northern Lights Promise?

In 2023, Havila Voyages launched a program called Northern Lights Promise. In short, it is a guarantee to their voyagers that they will see the Northern Lights on the Bergen-Kirkenes-Bergen round trip voyage between October 1st to March 31st. If you don't see the Northern Lights during this time, they will give you a free trip the following Northern Lights season.

Is The Voyage Worth It?

That sounds great right, but is the voyage worth it? My gut reaction says of course. While I have not ridden the entire route, what I have seen blew my mind by the astonishing beauty the Norwegian coastline has to offer. So, in the worst scenario, aka not seeing the Northern Lights on either of the two voyages, spending 19 days staring out the window and exploring Norway's winter wonderland would be well worth with. Now, toss in seeing the Northern Lights on either of your trips, a dream come true. 

How To Maximize Your Northern Lights Viewing Experience Onboard Havila Voyages

When you are onboard a Havila Vessel to see the Northern Lights there are a few tricks giving you the best opportunity to see the Northern Lights.

• Turn on "Nor Light" in your room so you get announcements from the staff when the Northern Lights are happening
• Always have warm layers ready to be put on, most likely you'll need to stand outside in the cold to see the Northern Lights
• Maintain your directional awareness, the Northern Lights will be towards the North
• Download the Aurora app so you can check the KP index, if you have a KPI of 2, or higher, you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights in the norther part of the route and a KPI of 4, or higher, for the southern part of the journey
• Use your iPhone to take a long exposure of the sky, this will help you see the Northern Lights better and capture them if they are there

Stop Looking For Authentic Travel, It Doesn't Exist

Everyday questions about "how to find authentic [insert topic of interest]" while traveling come across my desk. The reality is, the way we travel today is inauthentic from the start. Time constraints, budgets, basic needs, the internet, all factors into why there is no authentic travel in a two week vacation. But, does that mean you should not travel to see and learn about the world? Absolutely not! Travel is a tool everyone should use to understand and learn about this world. Here are a few ways to use travel to deepen your understanding of this planet.

Seek Out Cultural Immersions

Guilty as charged, I love a good cultural immersion. Learning about a way of life different from my own invigorates me. I'm fascinated by the way others live, eat, and make sense of the world around them. Sometimes the details are subtle, nuanced difference and at times, those differences are monumental. Yet, when you travel, seeing behind the curtain is not easily done. 

Our lives are private, but cultural immersions are a great way to learn about a place and people while you travel. Yes, some cultural immersions are a curated show, where they dress up and play to roll, but that doesn't mean you won't learn from the experience. You should not avoid a curated immersion if you are interested in the topic, you will learn something if you keep your eyes and ears open. Remember, the whole goal of traveling is to expose yourself to something different so you can go home with a new understanding of this world.

Interact With The Locals, Not Just In a City

Interacting with locals provides a filter to the place you are traveling, showcasing the way locals think, see the world, and interact with each other. However, unless you spend an absorbent amount of time switching from local to local, your perspective will be skewed based on the handful of local views. Everyone you interact with will have a different perspective, so it's important to seek out people from different social economic status, age, diversity, political views, and place. I can promise you the way a farmer sees the world versus a city-dweller will be vastly different.

If you are bold enough, ask a stranger to share a meal, or a cup of coffee. Better yet, strike up a conversation with a person in a park, or out on a hike. Ask questions and listen. The key is to listen without comparison to your own life. Listen to the local share their experience and try to walk in their shoes while you travel.

Give Yourself Time

Time is your enemy when you travel. Cramming a lot into a little time window is the reality of traveling, but the longer you have to immerse yourself into a culture or a place, the more you can learn. For example, I cycled around the South Island of New Zealand for two months just after a college, which is a long time, and was exposed to the generosity of the Kiwis. Often taken into their homes and offered a bed, or couch, to sleep on. Shared meals, exposed to sheep herding with dogs from a farmer, ate my first marmalade, learned about native folklore, and learned about jade necklaces. 

When you give yourself time to interact with locals as you travel, you'll learn that authenticity is not something you seek while you travel. Authenticity is always around you, you just have to be open to learning and interacting with the place you travel.