San Diego is known as the city that loves the seaside owing the distinction to its great location of being near the Pacific Ocean. Thus yachting, fishing, and boating are prime activities that the city takes seriously. Another noticeable San Diego trait is its knack for entertainment and this is seen everyday in the various attractions and entertainment spots present in the city. Combine these two and you have a the Parade of Lights.

This is an annual event held at the Bay side area that acts as the boating community’s Christmas gift to the city of San Diego. The event draws in 80,00 viewers a year and no one is left disappointed as San Diego remains true to its flair for entertaining by ending the year in a splash of color and with a definite bang.

The Parade of Lights begins at around 5:30 pm with a fireworks display that launches the boats off to their course through San Diego Harbor. After the fireworks showcase, the boats line up at Shelter Island then move on to the Harbor Island, next to The Embarcadero, after that Seaport Village, and eventually ending at The Ferry Landing in Coronado at around 7:30 pm. Viewers are in for a treat every year because of the different themes that they have lined up for each year such as a Pirate’s theme for this year and Christmas at the zoo from previous years.

To completely enjoy San Diego’s Parade of Lights, make sure that you get there early in order to find a good viewing spot. Harbor Island usually has the most crowded places and so you can choose to view from the Embarcadero or the Coronado. A prime viewing spot when you’re on water is the 10th street terminal at Coronado.

Huntsville Skyline
Photo by: Anivron, Creative Commons

Huntsville is located in Madison County. It is the seat of Madison County and has a population of about 180,000. Huntsville City is the largest city in the four-county Huntsville-Decatur Combined Statistical Area. Huntsville experiences hot, humid summers with generally mild winters.

Huntsville was named as one of “America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations for 2010” by National Trust for Historic Preservation—it is a recognition the city so rightfully owns. Huntsville mirrors the legacy of Alabama’s first English speaking city, the conflict of the American Civil War and the achievements of America’s rocket scientists. This city which lies at the bottom of a mountain in North Alabama is just as at home in the 19th or the 21st century.

The city is also known as “The Rocket City” because of its close history with the U.S. space missions. If you want to experience outer space, head over to the Davidson Center for Space Exploration, the new front door for the U.S. Space and Rocket Center complex. The center features a 360-seat Davidson Center 3-D Digital theater and Auditorium. You can also experience dining under the impressive Saturn V rocket. With the technology and new innovation this center offers, it will surely be a trip you’ll never forget.

You can also head to Alabama Constitution Village, known as the birthplace of Alabama, where you can explore the rich history of Alabama. You’ll experience being in the 19th century with villagers dressed in period clothing taking you through eight reconstructed Federal style buildings. You can also visit the actual site where the forty-four delegates gathered to forge the way to Alabama’s statehood.

And if you want a piece of nature, you can visit Harmony Park, a nature preserve with free-ranging exotic and endangered animals. It is two-mile route wherein you can see zebras, zebus, antelope, buffalo, a camel, ostriches, pythons and crocodiles.

Truly, Huntsville has a little bit of everything. So if you want to experience nature, history and technology, Huntsville is your perfect destination.

Kailua Beach
Photo by: cliff1066™, Creative Commons

One can enjoy the scenery of Hawaii by going to one of the many beaches in the country, Kailua Beach Park. It is located on Oahu and is a lovely sight to behold. One can lounge on any spot on the 0.8 kilometer beach which features soft, white sand and a breathtaking view of the ocean. A number of water sports and activities can be done in the area such as bodysurfing, kayaking, and parasailing. (more…)

Vikingsholm Castle (Can you see it?)
Photo by: the_tahoe_guy, Creative Commons

North of Emerald Bay in Lake Tahoe California is the Vikingsholm Castle. Vikingsholm is a grand castle surrounded by lush plants and pines and cedar trees. Being near the Emerald Bay, it complements to the natural surroundings of the area. (more…)

Calm Waimea Bay in the summer
Photo by: lhilyer_libr, Creative Commons

When a place like Waimea Bay gets immortalized in a song by iconic musicians like the Beach Boys did in “Surfin’ USA”, then you know that the aforementioned place is worth checking out. Surfers from all over the world troop to the shores of Waimea Bay to experience its legendary waves which can even reach up to towering heights of 30 feet and more. It’s no surprise why the Beach Boys included it in their hit song “Surfin’ USA” and why most of the popular surfing competitions are held here. (more…)

Painting by Moritz Daniel Oppenheim 1856 at
the Judah L Magnes Museum
Photo by: Jdsteakley , Creative Commons

The Judah L Magnes Museum in California is a museum that was founded by Rebecca and Seymour Fromer in 1962, which they named after an activist of Jewish descent who is a native of Oakland. Magnes was one of the founders of the educational institution Hebrew University of Jerusalem and is an esteemed and respected rabbi, a famous political militant and prominent speaker. (more…)

Bernardo Winery Barrel Room
Photo by: woodypew , Creative Commons

Dubbed as the oldest operating winery in San Diego county, San Diego’s Bernardo Winery surely looks the part. The place has every bit of the rustic feel and actually looks like an old farm. The winery is family run as is the tradition with most of the still existing wineries ensuring that the quality of wines stay true from generation to generation.

The Bernardo Winery can be found in the quaint town of Rancho Bernardo, which is a good 25 miles north of downtown San Diego. Founded in 1889, the winery has been witness to moments of glory when it was the major supplier of wines to the San Diego County as well as humbling yet defining moments when it had to downsize due to the loss of vineyards and look for other ways to continue generating profit.

The Winery has put in a coffee shop, salon, various village shops and a cafe in addition to its wine tasting shop making it a good destination as ever. A step into the winery and one is instantly transported decades back because of the beautiful Mediterranean gardens, lush vineyards, and captivating atmosphere. In fact, the place has become a favourite for site for hosting events such as weddings and banquets due also to warmness and hospitality of the family running the place.

There are different choices to where you can hold your event depending on the ambience you want. There is Rosario’s Pavilion, the olive park and pavilion where most of the events are usually held because of its beautiful surroundings. If you want something more formal and intimate with a lot of character, the Barrel Aging Room is a great place for sit down dinners as you are surrounded by old redwood wine aging vats.

Rock Climbing at Solid Rock Gym in San Diego, CA
Photo by: crazyoctopus, Creative Commons

San Diego’s Solid Rock Gym and Rock Climbing in North County has gained a huge following not just in the city, but from other regions since it opened in 1993. Their new facility boasts of a huge 22,000 square feet of climbing terrain, which includes a state of the art climbing wall deemed to be the most advanced in the US.

Rock climbing is not a new activity, but the people behind it have definitely taken their passion for this experience to a whole new level that enthusiasts from all over can readily appreciate. Because of their belief in Rock climbing capacity to bring the mind and body into harmony due to the demands of the activity, they set up an environment where first time climbers can try it out even as experienced climbers train and hone their skills alongside them. Through state of the art indoor climbing walls and climbing apparatus that are up to par with the strictest standards, Solid Rock Gym has brought the rugged and rigorous charms of outdoor climbing into and indoor environment that offers a lot of comfort.

The gym offer 115 top ropes, three huge lead areas, and four bouldering areas. Their top ropes have four routes and are constantly being reset three times a year by the best route setter from all over the country in order to give their customers a different climbing experience every time they visit.

Open to both enthusiasts and first time climbers, the gym has a staff of experienced and dedicated climbers who will serve as guides or teachers to climbers of all levels. This great interaction of supporting and encouraging each other makes the experience of rock climbing a unique one.

Shores off La Jolla
Photo by: AMagill, Creative Commons

The Jewel – this is the nickname given to La Jolla, a beach town gifted with amazing landscapes and cliffs. With a beautiful coastline fronting the Pacific Ocean, electing beach culture, and 11 kilometer long sprawling coastline, indeed, naming La Jolla, the Jewel has never been more apt.

La Jolla’s economy comes from strong tourism. The beaches provide the best kind of attraction with many beaches with characteristic rocky terrain and sandy coast. Some of La Jolla’s best beaches are the Wind and sea Beach, Wipeout Beach, La Jolla shores, Black’s Beach, La Jolla cove and others. Given the many beach destinations, the town is also famous as a weekend retreat from many residents of California. Seaside restaurants and businesses were also established, further attracting more tourists year after year.

La Jolla is also home to University of California, San Diego. That’s why most of the tourists and the residents comprise of youthful individuals. Other university, such as National University, is also based here. The pertinent youth culture has made La Jolla a bustling town, full of activities. There are also a lot of mid-sized hotels and Bed and Breakfast inns for your accommodations.

Apart from beach bumming, you can also go sight seeing especially at La Jolla’s Mount Soledad, which is built with various narrow roads which lead to many homes that are found along the cliffside. An interesting monument called the Mount Soledad Easter Cross which was erected in memory of soldiers who fought during the Korean War. La Jolla is also home to the Torrey Pines Golf Course, which is one of the multi awarded golf course all over America.

La Jolla is a historical town as well, and the experience is better encapsulated through the La Jolla History Walking Tours where you can enjoy marveling at the colonial houses and establishments of La Jolla. Apart from that, you can pay a visit at the Museum of Contemporary Art which was established in 1915.

San Diego’s La Jolla is bounded by the ocean in all of its three sides.

Dusk at Ala Moana
Photo by: madman00, Creative Commons

As if its natural beaches were not enough, Hawaii is also home to a man-made shore between Waikiki and . This place is so widely visited by visitors each year and offers the same relaxing ambiance and great summer experience as that of the natural shorelines of the state. This is none other than the Ala Moana Beach Park on Oahu Island. (more…)

Gulf Shores Beach
Photo by: Infrogmation, Creative Commons

Gulf Shores is a city along the coast in Baldwin County, Alabama and has a population of over 5,000. Gulf Shores is considered a seaside resort in Alabama. Most of the city is made up of beachfront hotels, vacation houses, and condominiums. The city’s economy is mostly based on real estate and tourism. Gulf Shores has a large beach facing the Gulf of Mexico.

The beaches in Gulf Shores are known for its bright, white quartz sand. The sand is powdery soft and feels very comfortable to the feet. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico along the beach have an emerald green tint which is due mainly to the proximity of the Mobile Bay estuary to the west—this is where the Mobile River meets the Gulf of Mexico.

Gulf Shores is the perfect getaway. Whether you want to spend some time alone, have a romantic weekend with the one you love, or have fun with your family, Gulf Shores is the right place to be.

Visit Fort Morgan, the site of the Civil War battle of Mobile Bay and be taken back in time. The fort was built in 1834 and received its first garrison in March of the same year. The post was named after Daniel Morgan, a Revolutionary War hero.

Or you can take an Orange Beach cruise and explore the back bays—dolphin cruises offer a one-of-a-kind chance to see Alabama’s Gulf Coast where you can view wild bottlenose dolphins and other aquatic creatures. This will surely be a great experience for you and your family.

You can also head to the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and visit your animal friends. The zoo is located just blocks away from the beach. It is a home to more than 290 animals including tigers, lions, bears, monkeys and macaws. The zoo also features a reptile house, an aviary, and a petting zoo.

And if you get too tired, you can always head to the beach and relax. In Gulf Shores, you can take a rest all day long or you can spend your day visiting the various attractions the city has to offer. Gulf Shores certainly offers the best of both worlds!

Claremont Canyon Regional Reserve Panoramic View
Photo by: maxwellkeyes, Creative Commons

Behind the historic Claremont Hotel lies the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve, a park popular among tourists for its hiking trails. Among these is the Stonewall fire trail, which starts at Stonewall Road and measures a total of .75 miles. The climb is quite steep, but once the hikers reach the peak they will be treated to a breathtaking view of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, Oakland and Berkeley. (more…)

Panama-California Buildings in Balboa Park
Photo by: Osbornb, Creative Commons

Most people are extremely busy and choose to work, work some more, and fulfill their own responsibilities to other people. Those different people may include their family, friends, loved ones, and co-workers. Do you notice that the self is not included in the list? Individuals must pay attention to themselves so that they can be at their best when dealing with the people around them. This may start with physical wellness, but the more usual neglected aspect of the self is one’s heart. Ingrained in each person is the need for inspiration, and culture provides this to all, whether we know it or not. In California, San Diego’s Balboa Park provides the needed respite from the daily hustle and bustle of life, and replenishes the individual’s passion for life.

While relaxing in the serene grounds of the area, Balboa Park provides a different kind of atmosphere with its lush gardens, the availability of more than ten distinctive museums, the San Diego Zoo, and world-class locations for lovers and performers of the arts. Anyone can enjoy the scenery in the park – it is free! If one would want to experience a bit more culture by visiting the museums, there are several ways to go about it.

Those with more time can avail of a pass that allows them full access to the grounds and museums for one full week – take note that this includes admission to the Zoo! However, for those who are just taking a single- day break may choose to enjoy a day pass. Only a limited number of museums can be visited using the day pass, but there are only so many hours in a day!

It is easy to experience culture of California. Visit Balboa Park and regain your passion for life, which will surely fuel your soul with culture and the arts!

Harbor Island
Photo by: Port of San Diego, Creative Commons

San Diego’s Harbor Island is a man-made island which was built in 1961 by the United States Navy. Harbor Island is a long strip of island which was only made as a harbor dredging. However as time passes by Harbor Island becomes one of the most visited attractions in San Diego because of the warm and tropical climate along with the fresh sea breeze coming from the ocean.

Today, Harbor Island is peppered with many elegant hotels and resorts that are frequently visited by tourists all over the world. During the day, you can feel the warm tropical breeze plus the salty air which makes you feel as if you are in a tropical beachside country.

At night, you will be greeted by a gorgeous panorama of Harbor Island. Lights from the skyscrapers reflect on the San Diego Bay making the whole skyline glow in the dark. The island is perfect for families, friends and especially lovers who enjoy a romantic walk along the beachside.

The island is home to various fine dining restaurants and two high-rising hotels. For a quick escape from the city, you can go to Harbor Island and enjoy seaside dining at its best. Apart from these, Harbor Island has its own marina with various small boats and even yachts where you can enjoy a quick sail towards San Diego Bay.

Back then, Harbor Island played at important role in deepening the berths for military ships to dock on. It was built with more than 10 million cubic yards of sand, mud and other materials. Nowadays, Harbor Island is an upscale destination which undeniably helps the economy from tourism alone. Locals are also provided jobs because of the many establishments found in the area.

Diamond Head
Photo by: StuSeeger, Creative Commons

One of Hawaii’s must see visitor attractions is the Diamond Head State Monument. This is a cinder cone that has been built and shaped by a series of explosions some throughout the years. It got its name from the calcite crystals that British seafarers saw sparkling in the bright sun, which they thought were diamonds. The natives of Hawaii call it Le’ahi, which means “brow of the yellow fin tuna.” (more…)

Hanauma Bay
Photo by: ewen and donabel, Creative Commons

If you want to go on a vacation that is close to nature and can give you that much needed rest and relaxation, then Hawaii is definitely the perfect place to visit. In this state where people greet each other “hello” and “good bye” the same way by saying “aloha!” visitors are treated to a close encounter with nature and very enjoyable and exciting activities for the whole family. One spot that is a hit among nature-loving visitors is Hanauma Bay. (more…)

Basilica De Alcala Vintage Photo
Photo by: army.arch, Creative Commons

For lovers of California history and religious landmarks, San Diego’s Mission Basilica de Alcala is a place that has to be a staple when touring the city. Built in 1769 above old town, the Basilica is the first link of what will eventually become 21 chains of Spanish missions founded in California by Franciscan friar Junipero Serra. This first mission and the areas surrounding it were long inhabited by Kumeyaay Indians. The Spanish then named it after the Catholic Saint Didacus more commonly known as San Diego. Thus the Basilica marks one of the first landmarks associated with San Diego tying it from then on to the city’s rich history.

From its original location in Old Town, the Mission was moved to its present site in Mission Valley where it was sacked by the local tribe the year after it was built. This prompted Serra to use thick adobe walls and clay tile roofs in the reconstruction so that it will be harder to set ablaze, a move that has inspired 20th Century California architects.

The rich history includes its role as the site of many firsts in California history such as the first Christian burial and the first public execution in 1778. Also, California’s first Christian martyr, Father Luis Jayme is laid down to rest beneath the chancel floor. All these important connection to the history of San Diego and California in general have made Mission Basilica de Alcala a National Historic Landmark.

Today, the Basilica houses a museum as well as a gift shop where tourists can get their souvenirs. These are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and can be easily reached via bus or trolley. Catholic masses are also said daily.

Mission Beach quiet
Photo by: antisocialtory, Creative Commons

Those headed for San Diego’s Mission Beach in California need to read this, especially for those who have not been there before, and are taking an adventure to a different place. The first thing that one needs to know about Mission Beach is that it’s a great place for anyone to go. This is because the place has everything that you will need!

Near Mission Beach is a gathering place just a few inches away from the beach where any one can shop, eat, play, and play some more – Belmont Park. The best part of this deal is that, after hitting the beach, getting a tan or playing some beach volleyball, the Park is within reach, and is free. If the folks want to get some rest or some shut eye, the best thing to do is to get back to the hotel and snooze.

The beauty of being in the Mission Beach area is that there is a smattering of different places to stay regardless of the allocated budget for the trip. In fact, in the hotel listings, there are more hotels catered to the budget conscious compared to the moderately priced ones, and the really expensive and luxurious ones. It is not to say though that there is a shortage of average priced or first class hotels, because there is also a lot to choose from. Another great thing about the hotels is that al visitors will be able to get more information about where else to go in San Diego. After all, San Diego has numerous tourist sites and attractions, and would be a shame to miss during a vacation.

San Diego is a great place to start with for a vacation. Don’t hesitate to ask around and check online for more information for the best deals and locations to spend your vacation in.

If you’re looking for a place where you want to take a breather and enjoy the serenity and tranquility that nature has to offer or to simply take a break from the usual city life, Yorba Regional Park is just the perfect place for you to unwind. (more…)

Folsom Lake Panoramic View
Photo by: d-man / Carpe diem, Creative Commons

Granite Bay at Folsom Lake has an average population of 19,888 based on the Sacramento 2000 Census. The bay serves as one of the city’s residential site which is located at the eastern part of Roseville and West Folsom Lake area. According to the Bureau of US Census, the bay is a Census Designated Place (CDP) under the Sacramento and Roseville area. The Bureau of US Census reported that the CDP of the bay has an estimated area of 21.7 square miles of land and 0.1 square miles of water.

Granite Bay’s name was originated from the “Granite Bay” area located on the eastern part of Sacramento. The bay area is where the two high schools owned by the Sacramento government are located. The schools are the Del Oro High School and Granite Bay High School. Both public institutions were consistently placed among the top public high schools in California. The Eureka Union School is Granite Bay High’s affiliate district school. The Eureka Union is one of California’s high standard institutions based on the study conducted by the “Standardized Reporting and Testing Program” of the state.

The Folsom Lake is the hometown to many prominent sports, music and entertainment personalities in the world today. Among the well-known musicians currently residing at the granite bay includes rock band members Tobin Esperance and Jeff Keith. The place is also the hometown of many NBA superstars such as Jason Williams, Chris Webber and Bobby Jackson. Hollywood actor Eddie Murphy, Bowling legend Steve Cook and the late presidential daughter Maureen Reagan also lived in the granite bay for years.

Dothan Civic Center
Photo by: Christopher Hollis, Creative Commons

Dothan is known as the “Peanut Capital of the World”- with half of the United States’ peanut crop being grown within a hundred-mile radius of the city and with much of it being processed in Dothan itself — such is a title the city rightfully deserves.

Dothan is a city located in the southeastern side of the state of Alabama. The city of Dothan is the seat of Houston County. It has a generally warm climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, cool winters.

Every year, in the month of November, the city holds the National Peanut Festival, the largest peanut festival in the United States. The festival is held to celebrate the harvest season and to pay tribute to the peanut growers. A two-hour parade, live music concerts, beauty pageants and contests for different ages are held. Arts, crafts and agricultural products are put on display. Amusement rides and animal acts are also available. Attracting more than 200,000 people each year, this seasonal festival promises fun for everyone—and definitely lots and lots of peanuts.

Of course, the National Peanut Festival isn’t the only attraction in Dothan. There are a number of things to do and places to see in Dothan City.

Are you interested in a bit of history? You can go to the Army Aviation Museum and see the largest collection of U.S. Army aviation memorabilia. Or you can opt to visit Landmark Park and Alabama Agricultural Museum where you can visit a farmstead from the early 1900s.

If you are up for some art, then you should take a look at the Wiregrass Festival of Murals—this is a project of murals showing the area’s history painted by muralist from all over the world. The murals are painted on the walls of buildings in the city’s historic district. The Wiregrass Museum is also an attraction, with different artworks being exhibited in a historic building.

There are also entertainment destinations, such as Country Crossing, which offers attractions including water parks, family entertainment centers and dinner theaters among others.
Of course, those mentioned above are not the only things Dothan City can offer. Dothan can promise you a visit you’ll never forget. So if you’re up for a lot of Southern hospitality, Dothan City is the place for you!

Rainy evening at the Berkeley Art Museum
Photo by: JH+L, Creative Commons

The Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive in the University of California Berkeley are two of the most treasured areas on campus. The museum was founded in the year 1963 when 45 paintings were donated to the university along with $250,000 from teacher and artist Hand Hofmann. There had been a design competition for the museum in 1964 and in 1970, it was finally inaugurated. (more…)

Facade of the Simon Wiesenthal Center (Museum of Tolerance)
Photo by: Lendu, Creative Commons

The Holocaust is one of the most horrifying and tragic events in human history. It has continuously shaken generations through history books, survivor accounts, and other media sources. But despite the proliferation of such materials, the question of the Holocaust’s actual occurrence is being questioned by many young individuals. The Simon Wiesenthal Center – Museum of Tolerance aims to remind generations of youngsters about the Holocaust not just through ordinary artifacts and documents, but through hands-on learning via multimedia materials. Aside from reminding, the objective of the museum is to educate people of all ages the root causes of the Holocaust and other similar hate crimes: racism and prejudice.

The Tolerance opened its doors to the public in 1993. About a third of the museum’s annual 350,000 visitors are children. The most well-known exhibit in the museum is “The Holocaust Section.” The visitors are divided into groups and immersed in the events that transpired during World War II to get a feel for how the Holocaust came about. There are also testimonies from survivors who now work as volunteers in the museum.

In the Tolerance center, visitors are not just exposed to every day prejudice issues but they are also tasked to participate in various exhibits. Some of the interesting exhibits are “The Point of View Diner” which recreates a 1950s diner and serves controversial topics on its menu; and then there’s “The Millennium Machine”, a high-tech “time machine” that encourages visitors to come up with solutions on how to stop global human rights abuses.

There’s also the “Finding Our Families, Finding Ourselves” exhibit, which features the diverse personal histories of some of the most well-known American personalities like actor Billy Crystal, musician Carlos Santana, educator Dr. Maya Angelou, baseball player Joe Torre, and many more. Through this exhibit, the Museum of Tolerance hopes to bring together a fractured community and make them recognize the underlying unity shared by everybody, regardless of their origins and cultures.

Water or Look out Tower? At the Tallac Historic Site
Photo by: Tahoe Arts and Mountain Culture, Creative Commons

South Lake Tahoe has a cultural site wherein people can enjoy theatrical performances and a unique festivity of music and arts, the Tallac Historic Site. The place is also included in the National Registry of Historic Sites. (more…)

Sunset at Kawai Nui Marsh
Photo by: jdnx, Creative Commons

Kawai Nui Marsh may not be a usual spot for visitors to go to, but this area is of great importance to the many animal and plant species which can be found there. Majority of these species are endangered, such as the waterbirds which consider this wetland their sanctuary. Over the years organizations have fought to maintain the “untouched” nature of the marsh and prevented residential buildings from being built in the area. It appears that their efforts have all paid off. (more…)