11 Best Things To Do In Arizona

Above, Saguaro National Park near Tucson, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Living 40 miles from the Arizona border allows me to frequently visit the "Grand Canyon State" for recreation.

There's plenty of things to see and do in Arizona and The Traveler has posted "11 Best Things To Do In Arizona". So far, I have done about half of them.

They begin with:

Arizona is a state of big skies and even bigger landscapes, where red rock deserts, cool pine forests, tribal lands and dynamic cities all sit under the same desert sun. From standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon to wading into turquoise waterfalls, slot canyons and cactus forests, the challenge is not finding things to do but deciding what to fit into one trip. These 11 experiences span the best of Arizona, with suggestions on when to go, how to visit responsibly and how to stay safe in a place where heat and distance can be just as dramatic as the views.

To see what they are, go here. 

How California's Upcoming State Ban Will Impact RVs

Above, dry camping last month in Quartzsite, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The wacko communists who infest California's Democrat Party passed legislation banning sales of small gas-powered engines such as portable generators, lawnmowers and leaf-blowers.

This will impact RV camping trips.

The Travel spells out how the new law, to be effective 2028, will impact RVsrs.

They begin with:

As part of California’s ambitious push toward a zero-emission future, the state has passed legislation to phase out the sale of small gas-powered engines, including generators.

While this may raise concerns for RVers and campers who rely heavily on portable power, the law doesn’t outlaw personal use—only new sales after 2028. California is one of many states with affordable RV parks perfect for cross-country travel, making it a popular destination despite the shift toward cleaner energy.

With careful planning and a wave of new eco-friendly alternatives, outdoor enthusiasts can still enjoy California’s breathtaking parks and campsites this summer and beyond—while contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. Here’s what the generator ban really means and how to prepare for the road ahead.

I made use of my motorhome's generator last month while dry camping at a clampout in Quartzsite, Arizona.

To read more, go here. 

Scenic Desert Campsites

Above, Lake Havasu State Park made the list of scenic campsites. Photo by Armand Vaquer

For those who favor desert camping, you're in luck!

The Travel has posted a list of the ten most scenic campsites in Arizona. Autumn (and Spring) is a great time to desert camp as the daytime temperatures have moderated, although it can get chilly at night.

The start it off with:

If one loves the outdoors and is yearning for a camping trip that will take the person away from the hustle and bustle of city life, consider pitching a tent at one of the scenic desert campsites in Arizona. From the red rocks of Sedona to the imposing cliffs of the Grand Canyon, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to take in. And, with temperatures that are cooler than one can find in the city, desert camping is the perfect way to escape the heat of summer.

Whether the wanderer is an experienced camper or is looking for a taste of adventure, one shouldn't miss out on these 10 must-see desert camping destinations in Arizona!

To read more, go here. 

National Park Camping: 10 Things To Know

Above, at North Pines Campground at Yosemite National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Camping in a national park is something that everyone should try at least once in their lives.

Whether it is in a tent, sleeping under the stars or in an RV, it is an experience that will bring lasting memories.

The Travel has posted a list of ten things to know before camping in a national park. They are things every newbie should know and a good refresher for experience campers.

They begin with:

America is known for its breathtaking nature and esteemed national parks. In 2021, the National Park Service registered 297 million park visits! Visitors travel to national parks to enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, biking, and bird watching. Another main draw to the parks is camping. Staying in a national park overnight helps visitors really connect with nature and escape the trials of everyday life.

Arches National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Glacier National Park are all popular national park camping spots. Campers enjoy in the charging waterfalls, breathtaking hiking trails, and unique wildlife.

Camping in a national park is not as simple as walking up and pitching a tent, however. Camping takes a lot of prior planning and research. From reserving a campsite to packing supplies to learning park procedures, a lot of thought goes into this outdoor activity. Below is a list of ten things to know before camping in a US national park.

To read more, go here. 

What To Know About The Durango Train

Above, the train traveling several hundred feet above the Animas River. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One does not have to be a train buff to enjoy a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

I have ridden the train several times since the 1980s and have enjoyed the ride each time. The scenery along the route is spectacular. The train travels along (for the most part) the Animas River, sometimes at river level and sometimes several hundred feet above it on a rocky ledge.

I last rode it earlier this month.

The Travel has posted the things to know about the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad that would be helpful for those planning a trip.

They begin with:

All aboard the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad running between Durango and Silverton in Colorado! The vintage train is a trip into the romance of train travel of the Old West - and efforts have been taken to ensure the whole experience remains as authentic as possible.

There are many authentic railroad experiences still offered out West (and around the nation). If going to the Grand Canyon, be sure to take the Grand Canyon Railway and sit back and enjoy the Wild West performances - similar to an old-timey train robbery. For train enthusiasts out there, the oldest train still running today is the Fair Queen of India - it's only two years younger than the nation's rail network!

To read more, go here. 

What To See From Durango To Mesa Verde

Above, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

With less than a month of summer vacation left, people may be scrambling to travel somewhere.

If those reading this are in this category, here's a suggestion. Visit Durango, Colorado and Mesa Verde National Park along with points in-between.

I recently took a trip to Durango and rode the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Along with riding the train to Silverton, we also went to the Bar D Chuckwagon and Show in Durango.

Above, yours truly stepping out of the historic Strater Hotel. It is number 10 on the list. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

There are other things to see and do in the southwest corner of Colorado and The Travel lists ten of them.

They begin with:

Traveling from Durango, Colorado, to Mesa Verde National Park will take around an hour by car – it’s so quick that most people just pass by some interesting attractions between these places. Travelers will pass by the communities of Hesperus and Mancos, plus the ghost town of Mayday. A driving tour from Durango to Mesa Verde will let guests enjoy the breeze of the La Plata Mountains and the towns' hospitality.

The adventure starts in tourist-friendly Durango, where a couple of attractions can be seen. The small town of Hesperus follows, famous for its ski area. Next is Mancos, dubbed the “Gateway to Mesa Verde.” That’s more than 50 miles of satisfying Colorado memories.

To read more, go here. 

Top 10 Arizona Campsites

Above, The Beast at Goulding's Lodge Campground near Monument Valley. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Arizona has much to offer to campers, tent or RV campers.

There are contrasting campsites to choose from. They range from deserts to forested mountain areas. 

The Travel has posted 10 top campsites in Arizona. A couple of them I've already been to.

The start their article with:

Arizona is a land of contrasts. From the deserts to mountain meadows, there are so many places in this state where you can camp and enjoy nature. Each one has its own unique charm and will give you a true Southwest experience.

Whether you choose the stunning red desert landscape of Monument Valley or you choose to set up camp along the North Fork White River, you and your crew won’t be disappointed by the amazing natural beauty of the Grand Canyon State. Pack your camping gear, take the scenic route, and head out to some of the most beautiful spots in Arizona.

To see what they are, go here. 

Reasons To Visit Japan's Kansai Region

Above, Osaka Castle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Eventually, foreign tourists will be allowed to visit Japan again. As of now, the country's borders are closed to foreign tourism.

However, that doesn't prevent anyone from planning a future trip there. One section of Japan that should be considered is Japan's Kansai Region.

Above, Kinkaku-ji "Golden Pavilion" in Kyoto. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Travel has posted 10 reasons to visit Japan's Kansai Region.

They begin it with:

Japan is at the top of many travelers' bucket lists with its incredible food, beautiful landscapes, and intriguing culture. But while many people fly into Tokyo and simply stay there, it’s more worthwhile to get outside the capital and spend time exploring the Kansai region.

Kansai encompasses the prefectures of Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, Wakayama, Hyogo, and Shiga. Within these prefectures, the cities of Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kobe, and Himeji are some of the most popular among tourists. Here are 10 reasons visitors should consider spending their time in Kansai rather than sticking to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

To read more, go here. 

Best Places To Visit In Colorado

Above, aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If the state of Colorado in on your radar for a vacation this summer (or even winter), The Travel has posted an article of what they consider to be the ten best places to visit in Colorado.

Durango made the list, but Ouray and Ridgway, Colorado didn't. I would include them in any "must-visit" list. If one takes the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad trip, the train will take visitors to Silverton for a few hours stopover before returning to Durango. Ridgway was used for location shoots for the 1969 classic John Wayne western, True Grit.

They begin their article with:

From outdoor adventures to spectacular landscapes, Colorado has lots to offer that will inspire the soul. It’s home to fascinating historical sites, bustling cities, national monuments, and arid deserts. Skiers, mountain bikers, hikers, history buffs, and nature lovers flock to the state year after year for unforgettable vacations.

So how do travelers select the best places to visit in Colorado when the list of contenders is overwhelming? Well, these 10 amazing places will do the trick.

To read more, go here. 

Best Places To Stay Around Crater Lake National Park

Above, The Beast on Rim Drive at Crater Lake National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

During my 2017 Great American Eclipse trip, I headed from Idaho to Oregon to visit Crater Lake National Park. I hadn't been there since the early 1970s, so this was a good opportunity to go.

While there, I stayed at the Diamond Lake RV Park, which was a few miles from the north entrance into Crater Lake National Park. It was nice to visit the park again, even though a haze of smoke settled into the crater from wildfires nearby.

The Travel posted their list of ten best places to stay around Crater Lake National Park. Even though Diamond Lake RV Park didn't make the list, I would recommend it.

The Travel begins with:

Crater Lake National Park attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year from all around the world. The deepest lake in the US is located within the crater of Mount Mazama, a massive volcano that erupted 7,700 years ago, leaving behind a bowl filled with some of the cleanest water on the planet. Visitors have always been charmed by going to the lake's shore, examining its various natural features, and staring from spectacular viewpoints. The lake's characteristic blue tint is a testimonial to that astonishing depth and mesmerizing purity. Of course, all of those attractions and the park's secluded location mean that many visitors remain overnight. Here are the top 10 places to stay around the lake.

To read more, go here. 

Best Ways To Explore Mesa Verde National Park

Above, Spruce Tree House. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If one finds themselves in the Four Corners region of the Southwest, a visit to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is a must.

It is a national park not highlighting unique terrains, but ancient history of Native Americans.

The Travel has posted an article on the eight best ways to explore Mesa Verde National Park.

They begin it with:

Mesa Verde national park is one of the best places to enjoy an exciting archaeological experience and some adventures as well. The unique landscape was inhabited more than a thousand years ago by an ancient community of people known as the Ancestral Pueblo people and much of their amazing deeds can still be seen to this day. The park covering an area of 52,485 acres is endowed with some of the most important archaeological sites in the United States as well as unique cliff dwellings of these Ancestral Pueblo people. Exploring this region full of history requires a lot of time and these are the best ways to begin that exploration. 

To read more, go here. 

Best Times To Visit Yellowstone National Park

Above, bison relaxing in a meadow in the month of June. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Summer vacation season is just a couple of months away. Naturally, summer is the best time, weather-wise, to visit Yellowstone National Park.

Unfortunately, thousands of others are aware of this and flock to the park. It is hard to fully enjoy the park with crowds all around. But there are other times to see the park.

The Travel has posted nine of the best times, month-by-month, to visit Yellowstone National Park and what can be seen.

They start it with:

Yellowstone National Park falls on the list of the busiest national parks in the US, having millions of travelers crowding the park to witness its beautiful scenery. Located in the western part of the US, in Park County, the northwest corner of Wyoming, this national park has a lot to offer to visitors at any time of the year. It is the first national park in the world, built in 1872, and rich in natural history, beautiful geological landscapes, as well as geothermal wonders. There is immense wildlife, waterfalls, geysers, and springs to make everyone has the most stunning safari experience. There is so much to explore in this beautiful park. Here are 9 of the best times to visit Yellowstone National Park.

To read more, go here. 

Gas Prices: How To Take Road Trips

Above, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad at Highline. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since the onset of sky-high gas prices, there's a word (I don't know if it's a new one) that is being frequently spoken and written these days: nearcation.

Nearcation means taking a vacation road trip closer to home. That's exactly what I plan to do this year.

I was planning to roam about eastern Wyoming and the Black Hills of South Dakota, but since gas prices are so high, I decided to take a trip closer to home to Durango, Colorado and Navajo Lake State Park in New Mexico instead. Both are roughly three hours from home.

The Travel has posted some tips on how to take a road trip without breaking the bank.

They start it with:

It's a change that everyone who owns a car has felt recently: The climb of gas prices as the spring season opens itself to travel ventures. While the next three seasons are some of the most popular for road trips, many are looking at them with doubt and concern due to rising gas prices. While emptying one's bank account for the sake of a road trip might feel like an inevitability, there are definitely some ways to keep the cost low when it comes to filling one's tank.

With some simple tips and some know-how, we can't completely soothe the burn of how expensive it is just to take a road trip. However, we can do what we can to mitigate the effect that it has on how, and when, we can travel.

To read more, go here.

12 Things To Do In Yosemite, Besides Hiking

Above, the bottom of Yosemite Falls. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who have never visited Yosemite National Park and those who have, finding things to see and do while in the park is not difficult.

To help those who are clueless on things the park has to offer, The Travel has listed 12 things to do there besides hiking.

They begin with:

Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited attractions in the United States with over 3 million yearly visitors. The park is most famous for its magnificent waterfalls and lots of hiking trails. While hiking is a popular thing to do here, there are other amazing things one can do to enjoy an amazing adventure at the park and these are some of the most popular ones not to miss out on.

To read more, go here. 

10 Things You Would Never Think To See On Route 66

Above, Standin' On A Corner Park in Winslow, Arizona. Photo by Russell Azbill.

Did you know that about 85% of Historic Route 66 is still around to drive on? Yes, it is and one does have to know where it is located in different areas such as towns where rerouting and other changes, such as streets, frontage roads, had taken place over the years.

The Travel has posted an article ten things one would never think to see on Route 66. 

They begin it with:

Traveling is all about discoveries. It is all about discovering new things that someone has never thought about or seen before. By doing this, a person is able to appreciate how much diversity is there in the world. It also motivates someone to keep on traveling to discover more. As a result, travelers will always prefer to travel and visit strange places that will give them that thrill.

One of such places is route 66. So much has been said about route 66 but many people do not know the hidden things about this area until they visit and explore it. Here are 10 things one would never think to see on route 66.

Above, Standin' On A Corner Park in Winslow, Arizona
is a Route 66 Roadside Attraction. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here. 

While we're on the subject of Route 66, here is a book by Gallup historian Martin Link on Route 66 that is worth getting:

Above, yours truly with historian Martin Link. Photo by Russell Azbill.

What To Know About Using A Japan Rail Pass

Above, a couple of Japan Rail Passes I've used. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the perks of being a foreign tourist to Japan is that it allows tourists to use different Japan Rail Passes. Rail Passes allow tourists to explore Japan by rail (including bullet trains) and save money at the same time.

I've used them several times during my eight trips to Japan.

The Travel has posed an article on everything you should know about using Japan Rail Pass.

They start it off with:

Every year, millions of people flock to Japan to witness its marvelous and most iconic attractions, including Mount Fuji, Imperial Tokyo, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, historic Kyoto, the Island Shrine of Itsukushima, and much more. They can use the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto when heading to Mount Fuji or take the subway train to a specific place of interest. The simple fact of experiencing the country’s world-leading railway system is just a unique and quintessential part of a Japan trip.

However, those who want to save a lot of money when using the Japanese transportation system can spend some time learning about the convenient and special Japan Rail Pass. This applies to tourists who plan to save much money when exploring a lot in Japan.

Above, a shinkansen view of Mt. Fuji en route to Osaka from Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read the full article, go here. 

Key West Vs. Oahu: Which Island To Choose?

Above, Oahu's Waikiki Beach. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Suppose you are a beach person and someone has given you the choice of going to either Key West, Florida or Oahu, Hawaii for a vacation.

Which one would you choose?

I have been to both (Oahu in 2016 and Key West in 2019). I actually have more of a desire to revisit Key West. I had more fun there.

Above. a morning arrival at Key West by ship. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It just so happens that The Travel has posted an article comparing the two. It should provide enough information to a traveler to make a choice.

They begin it with:

Travel Conundrum is obvious between the unapologetic eccentricity of Key West, Florida Keys, or the multicultural vibe of Oahu, Hawaii. Both places have tropical oases, turquoise waters, incredible beaches, outdoor adventures, eclectic range of food, the quandary to choose one over the other persists. Let's see what both Key West & Oahu has to offer.

To read further, go here. 

Cheap and Affordable Things To Do In Hawaii

Above, hiking at Diamnd Head Trail is number 10 on the list. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Hawaii is known to be expensive, but it doesn't have to be if one knows where to look.

The Travel has posted a list of 10 things to do in Hawaii that won't break the bank (i.e., your wallet). 

I am surprised that the USS Arizona Memorial is not included in the list. Admission to the Memorial is free, but limited to 13,000 tickets per day. Other Pearl Harbor attractions do charge admission, such as the USS Missouri battleship and the USS Bowfin submarine.

They begin with:

Hawaii is known for its picturesque beaches, mesmerizing terrains, and unique culture. But it is becoming more and more expensive to live and travel to than the rest of the states in the country. However, there are always ways to enjoy Hawaii without having to break the bank if every tourist knows where to look. Here is a list of things to do in Hawaii that are budget-friendly for tourists.

To read more, go here. 

The Travel: What To Expect In Tokyo

Above, a view of Tokyo Tower from Tokyo City View in Roppongi. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

According to the United Nations, Tokyo is the world's most populated metropolitan are at  37.5 million people. 

While it has a lot of people, it is still a great place to visit.

Since foreign tourists are not allowed into Japan at present due to the pandemic, The Travel has posted things one should expect while in Tokyo, in the meantime. Also, they have plenty of photographs to enjoy.

They begin with:

As far as the world's metropolises go, Tokyo is pretty big. Tokyo has grown to become what is generally considered to be the world's most populated metropolitan area. Tokyo is so massive that it dominates Japan and no trip to Japan could be complete without visiting the city.

Perhaps surprisingly, Tokyo does not have a long history (by Asian standards) and there are plenty more historical cities in Japan - like Kyoto. But it is the beating heart of modern Japan. Before one goes to Japan, it may be beneficial to learn some essential Japanese words and phrases for first-timers.

To read more, go here. 

The Travel's Guide To Pearl Harbor

Above, the battleship USS Missouri at Pearl Harbor. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that the dock at the USS Arizona Memorial has been repaired, visitors can now board the shuttle boats to visit the memorial again.

If one has never been to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, The Travel has posted a guide that will prove to be helpful to visitors on the attractions there.

The begin it with:

The mesmerizing beaches and splendid sights of Waikiki, the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, the Koko Crater Railway Trail, and many more unique attractions are what make Honolulu in Hawaii so special and unique. However, more than 1.8 million visitors come every year to tour Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, making the spot the most visited attraction on the islands. All those people head to Pearl Harbor to pay respect to fallen heroes and to learn about the historical significance of this place in Hawaii. They want to know the details of what happened on December 7th, 1941. When visiting Pearl Harbor, one will enjoy a mix of free and paid-for activities, including ship tours, museums, and access to historical sites.

All of those attractions will provide people with an overview of World War II and how it affected the islands of Hawaï and the United States of America.

To read more, go here.