Visiting Hells Canyon

With a name like Hells Canyon it’s hard to believe anything good can come from a trip there. But, don’t let the name fool you. If you are narrowing down your choices for a family-friendly spring break travel destination don’t rule out Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. The park encompasses more than 652,000 acres, which hug the borders of northeastern Oregon and western Idaho. The vast stretches of natural beauty can be explored on foot, on horseback, or by boat. The latter being one of the most popular—after all, Hells Canyon is home to the famous Snake River. The waterway … Continue reading

Great Summer Escapes—Oregon

If you are looking to stow away for some peace and quiet this summer look no further than the Pacific Northwest. Various lodgings throughout the state of Oregon have drastically reduced their rates to entice travelers to experience the serenity found in the mountains and coastal areas of this popular region. Take a look: CANNON BEACH The Ocean Lodge, located in the peaceful beach town of Cannon Beach, is offering a Northwest Picnic package that gives guests a chance to sample local cuisine. In addition to a nights accommodation, you will receive a basket full of regional products like Tillamook … Continue reading

Oregon Road Trip

In a previous blog I noted that there are ways to tour the state of Oregon without blowing out your entire travel budget for the year. As I mentioned earlier, U.S. Highway 101 in Oregon takes you by some of the Beaver State’s most incredible scenery. The well-traveled road also leads you to some of the area’s most affordable lodgings (think $35-$50 per room per night). You can save more by setting up camp in one of the state’s lush parks. From Astoria, Oregon take the drive south to save even more in Newport. The historic waterfront district has a … Continue reading

Saving on Your Summer Vacation—Oregon

Now that you know how to save money on your summer vacation to California let’s head north to the breathtaking state of Oregon. I like to call this trip beauty on a budget. Oregon’s coastal highway provides access to some of the most spectacular views in the nation and the best part—they’re free. All of the beaches along Oregon’s coast are open to the public and access is guaranteed by law. Which means you can pull over, park, unpack your picnic and spend the afternoon whale watching, looking for agates, crabbing, surfing, strolling, or exploring shipwrecks anywhere along the 363-mile … Continue reading

Perusing Portland

Portland, Oregon might be one of the most laid-back cities I have ever visited (and that’s saying a lot given that I was born and raised in Hawaii). Which is why I am not surprised that the city consistently ranks high as being one of the best places to retreat for some much needed R&R. From its natural beauty to its stunning architecture and cultural gems, the city of Portland offers visitors an oasis from their hectic lifestyles. Natural Beauty Portland is known the world over for its spectacular gardens. Whether you prefer smelling the roses, tiptoeing through the tulips, … Continue reading

Enjoy a Spring Fling in Oregon

The Beaver State. The Web-foot State. The Sunset State. Oregon’s list of nicknames is seemingly endless and if you have ever visited the Pacific Northwest you know the state lives up to them all. Oregon is home to vast forests, fertile valleys, and an incredibly rugged coastline. What’s more, the views of the Pacific Ocean from one of the state’s many cliffs are some of the most photographed in the world. If you are looking for an affordable place to take the entire family this spring consider heading to Oregon. To help persuade you hotels in the Portland area are … Continue reading

Are You Planning to Visit Idaho or Virginia?

Who says there’s nothing to do in the state of Idaho? If the idea of propelling your body through the air at 55 mph 3,000 feet up gets your adrenaline flowing then you should be booking a trip to the “The Gem State” right now. That’s what the owner of a new motorized zipline is hoping you’ll do once word gets out that visitors can fly like a bird near the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls. The adventure ride is part of a proposed thrill park. The new zipline is called the Flight Stimulator and is part of the … Continue reading

Camping Etiquette

My aunt lives just miles from where fire ravaged more than 250 homes in the Lake Tahoe area last month. According to officials, the blaze displaced 3,500 residents and caused more than $160 million in damage. Fire investigators are now saying that a campfire may be to blame for starting the inferno. In light of the tragedy that occurred at one of our family’s favorite vacation destinations I’ve decided to list some camping reminders. Summertime is typically when thousands of families take to the woods to enjoy time in the great outdoors. If you’re one of them consider some of … Continue reading

Camping Options For The Anti-Camper

My name is Michele and I am an anti-camper. I’ve regaled you with my camping stories (okay story) in a previous blog, just to prove that I am not someone who voices discontent with an activity without trying it first. What can I say? I’m just not the camping type. At least that’s what I thought until I heard about “glamping.” Have you heard of “glamping?” According to tour companies, the word is shorthand for glamorous camping. Resorts in the United Kingdom and Canada have turned the spotlight on luxury camp sites in an effort to lure high rollers to … Continue reading