On a recent flight, I was asked where my favorite place to visit was. So, I gave it some thought and came up with my top 10 destinations and why but there are many locations that call my heart each year to check out. Stay tuned in
Ill tell you my favorites beginning in a series. Part 1 highlights my top 10 through 6 and part two will showcase my top 5.
Vegas, Baby. Here Las Vegas is like a huge amusement park with gambling, live shows and performances, fascinating architecture, people of all cultures, sightseeing, fancy shops, and ultramodern suites. You can say Vegas is the ‘NYC of the desert. Las Vegas can be the official destination or pit stop to explore the surrounding area. For example, good nearby sites include Hoover Dam, West Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Lake Mead, Mount Charleston, and nearby Zion Canyon National Park. Theres something for every age and taste. With some planning,
Seaside is a small town on Oregons northwestern coast. Its only an hour and half drive from Portland. The beach is easily walkable and a treasure land for shells, crabs, and sand dollars. The 1920s promenade highlights a statue of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Seaside Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction with a seal exhibit. If hiking is your thing, then Tillamook Head trail is a must do in nearby Ecola State Park with ocean views, Tillamook Rock Sea stack, and the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. While beach walking or sunset gazing, grab those binoculars for glimpses of wildlife including eagles, whales, seals, and other waterfowl. For shopping, theres the Carousel and Heritage Square Malls. For a good read based in Seaside, give Midnight Valentine by J.T. Geissinger, a try.
Hiking the Hurricane Hill trail takes you to the summit with views of Port Angeles and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Rialto Beach provides breathtaking scenery including huge driftwood, sea stacks and unusual rocks. Hoh Rainforest has trails of the Spruce
trees. Marymere Falls is a good trail to take, and Madison Falls is a short walk from Elwha Entrance Station. I saw deer and mountain goats up close on the Hurricane Hill trail. Port Angeles, WA is a good place to stay when exploring the area. Theres a ferry over to Victoria, Canada if interested. I flew into Seattle and drove. A vehicle is necessary to cover the vast area of the park.
Growing up in SC, Myrtle Beach was a frequent destination. Strolling the beautiful shoreline, taking in the entertainment, or visiting historical landmarks, you will not be disappointed with a visit here. MYR, Myrtle Beach International Airport, is a couple miles from the Atlantic Ocean. There are numerous hotels, condos, and private home rentals. The small airport has many flights and reasonable fares. There is an abundance of restaurants, fishing excursions, scenic boat rides, shopping, and live entertainment. The intracoastal waterway offers gorgeous views with watersport opportunities.
Trinidad is gorgeous. A seaside, charming town on the Pacific Ocean located about eight miles from Airport (ACV). A picturesque harbor, casino, hiking trails,
beaches, offshore sea stacks and rocks, and a lighthouse make this small town a destination. You will need to reserve a room at an Airbnb, the local inn, or a spot at the RV park. More lodging is available a short drive away in Blue Lake. Walk the Trinidad Head trail, snap photos at the Trinidad Bay Memorial Park, shop at a local store, walk the beach, and dine in the delicious town eateries. You will need a reservation as they book up quickly.
In my eBook, I share more details, maps, informative tips and photos of these destinations. Let me know if interested. Now, recapping my numbers 10 - 6 of top travel spots:
Look for part two with my top five available soon. Follow me on Facebook: DuchessDj Love or Instagram: duchessdjlove. I have posted my recent travel reviews at tripadvisor.com/Profile/DuchessDJtravels.
