Deployed to Djibouti in mid-2004, I faced five months of searing heat, tough challenges, and unexpected opportunities. From standing up for my principles to meeting Robin Williams and connecting with local communities, this Marine Corps journey became a defining chapter of growth and resilience.
Read MoreDiscover the vibrant beauty of Costa Rica with a journey through Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the country's most famous natural reserves, and explore the diverse attractions in the bustling San Jose area. From pristine beaches and lush rainforests teeming with wildlife to rich cultural experiences and urban delights, this adventure has something for every traveler.
Read MoreEmbark on the ultimate Sydney to Melbourne road trip, featuring iconic stops along the Great Ocean Road like the Twelve Apostles, Teddy's Lookout, and Great Otway National Park waterfalls. Discover local gems like Bellarine wineries, Lakes Entrance caravan parks, and the historical charm of Ballarat. Perfect for families and remote workers, this detailed itinerary covers everything you need for an unforgettable adventure, from whale-watching to scenic hikes and family-friendly accommodations.
Read MoreExplore the Best of Melbourne: Markets, Penguins, and Hidden Gems. Melbourne is a vibrant city where history, culture, and nature come together in perfect harmony. From the bustling Sunday markets to watching penguins at St Kilda Pier at sunset, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Wander through the historic landmarks along Flinders Street, relax in the peaceful Royal Botanic Gardens, and take in breathtaking views at the Shrine of Remembrance. Whether you're exploring with family, embarking on a day trip to Healesville Sanctuary, or simply soaking in the city’s charm, Melbourne offers unforgettable experiences for all. Perfect for a short visit or a remote work destination, Melbourne’s blend of adventure and tranquility is sure to captivate every traveler.
Read MoreDiscover the beauty of Manoa Falls Honolulu HI, one of Oahu’s most stunning natural attractions. Located just minutes from Waikiki, the Manoa Falls Trail takes you on an unforgettable journey through a lush tropical rainforest, leading to a breathtaking 150-foot waterfall. This guide covers everything you need to know about hiking Manoa Falls, from trail tips and safety advice to the best times to visit. After your hike, explore nearby attractions like Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head Crater for the perfect Oahu adventure. Whether you're a nature lover or a traveler looking for hidden gems, Manoa Falls is a must-see destination on your Honolulu itinerary.
Read MoreEmbark on a journey through the breathtaking Mamanuca Islands and the serene Yasawa Islands, two of Fiji’s premier vacation destinations. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top Mamanuca Islands Fiji resorts and reveal the best accommodation in Yasawa Islands Fiji. Discover the luxurious resorts that define these tropical paradises, uncover the filming location of the iconic "Castaway" movie, and get practical travel tips with insights into the Yasawa Flyer. Whether you’re seeking vibrant resort life or tranquil escapes, this guide will help you choose the ideal island getaway for your next adventure in Fiji.
Read MoreHighlighting Rio Celeste in Costa Rica including absolutely everything that you’ll need to know to visit this magical place. Additionally, we cover other forests and falls of Costa Rica that offer a backdrop for the most incredible memories you will make on your visit. The rich volcanic soil and proximity to the oceans means delicious food is everywhere you visit. The spectacular natural wonders will stay with you for a lifetime, and lure you back to experience them again – you’ll find something new each time!
Read MoreDiscover the ultimate travel showdown: Costa Rica vs México. This article dives into the best each country has to offer, comparing everything from adventure and eco-tourism to cultural exploration and romantic getaways. Whether you're seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, pristine beaches, or budget-friendly escapes, find out which destination is perfect for your next unforgettable journey.
Read MorePerched on the eastern side of Oahu in Hawaii Kai, the Koko Crater Railway Trail stands as a testament to both the island's geological history and its cultural heritage. This ancient tuff cone, sculpted by volcanic activity millennia ago, presents hikers with a demanding yet rewarding climb along over 1,000 old railroad ties. Originally built as a military railway during World War II to transport supplies, the trail now serves as a striking reminder of Hawaii's wartime history and a popular challenge for adventurers seeking breathtaking panoramic views. As you tackle the steep ascent, you'll not only engage in a physically demanding trek but also immerse yourself in a journey through the island's rich historical tapestry. Prepare to experience the Koko Crater Railway Trail—a hike that combines historical intrigue with natural beauty, offering both a vigorous workout and a profound connection to Hawaii's past.
Read MoreThe Midwest is called America’s heartland, and at the heart of that is Chicago. This is our Bucket List for Chicago - an itinerary of Two Days in Chicago with a rough and ready history of rapid commercial growth and political scandals and reforms, the history of the city reflects the history of the nation. Comforting food and fascinating culture that is representative of the diverse immigrant population continue to create an atmosphere that is fun no matter when you visit. There is so much to see and do in the city, but these are some of the highlights that you really don’t want to miss – until next time!
Read MoreLearn about the best things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Chiang Mai is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, nature, adventure, or relaxation, you will find it in this charming northern Thai city. This article lists some of the best things to do in Chiang Mai that you should not miss.
Read MoreFind the best tourist attractions in Ireland, iconic sights which make Ireland an ideal holiday destination. With green valleys and rolling hills, the Ancient East of Ireland is perfect for road trips. You can fill your itinerary with a load of hiking activities, castle hunting, and wander around the quaint countryside with jaw-dropping landscapes.
Read MoreThis list includes coordinates for the Lord of the Rings film locations - particularly because we found it extraordinarily difficult to find some of the locations that were mentioned in other articles on the internet because the locations were too vague. This list is huge - and is comprised of filming locations mentioned, and listed, in the bonus features of the 6 films, LOTR “New Zealand: Home of Middle Earth”, as well as from many other sources here in New Zealand and online.
Read MoreWhile many people think first of beaches and theme parks, when it comes to Florida there are whole other worlds of nature to explore and experience. This is a list of the best cheap things to do in Orlando, Florida. The tranquility and diversity will have you coming back again and again, and there will be something new and beautiful each time.
Read MoreThe eastern coast of the South Island of New Zealand offers visitors a beautiful backdrop for experiencing nature. The unforgettable vistas and fascinating culture will make your visit a once in a lifetime experience. We would highly recommend trying out the Dunedin City, Wildlife, and Scenic Tour while in the city, and then stopping by the Olveston Historic House, Speight’s Brewery, and the Chinese Garden. Note that there is also a train and bike path that lead out to Middlemarch that we wish we had time to do. For those who love hiking and biking, that will be the route to take to explore the Rock & Pillar range and the Strath Taieri.
Read MoreWhile earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 were devastating to Christchurch, destroying many businesses, residential areas, and historical buildings, a lot of progress has been made in rebuilding and making things safe again. Akaroa, located on the Banks Peninsula, is named for the harbor it’s located by, “Long Harbor” in a Māori dialect. Although it was under control of the British in 1840, the area also has much history and influence from French and German settlers that is unique in New Zealand.
Read MoreLike so much of New Zealand the area around Te Anau and Queenstown offers visitors unforgettable views and opportunities to experience nature in a way that’s like nowhere else on earth. Whether you’re a fan of Peter Jackson’s films or not, it’s impossible not to see why he chose this fantastical landscape for his epic tale. Its epic beauty stands up to all expectations.
Read MoreThe west coast of the South Island is full of experiences that you will not be able to find anywhere else you visit. New Zealand will draw you in and make you want to return again and again to see and experience the incredible marvels that nature has to offer here. It’s an adventure like no other.
Read MoreThe North Island of New Zealand is a treasure trove of natural and cultural wonders. Experiencing them for yourself is sure to make it the first of many visits – you will want to return to explore more and experience their wonders again and again.
Read MoreThe Manawatu-Wanganui region of the North Island of New Zealand offers a host of options to visitors looking for adventure or entertainment. The area is full of options for nature lovers – everything from water adventures on the namesake rivers to beach days on the coast, with hiking, fishing, and camping in between. The area is also well known for its agriculture, which translates into delicious fresh produce and award-winning dining options.
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