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Archive for May, 2010

The Siren’s Call Of Sausalito

May 31st, 2010 No comments

I’ve decided to rehash this piece at the behest of a history-impaired friend of mine. Of course, old pieces never die, they just multiply — thank you, Ice T, for that couplet. Now, should you find yourself on the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge, you may remember this re-post while luxuriating in your Sausalito hotel room!

Founded by Spanish missionaries, “Rancho del Sausalito” was one of many missions dotting the west coast. Other than enjoying the distinction of being one of the earliest settlements in the West, the city also enjoys the distinction of being partially submerged. This was simply a matter of course, not a natural disaster. The town had hopes of following San Francisco’s example in 1868 and extending the city parameters by using a complex system of landfills. Unfortunately, the landfill never got filled and several streets were subsequently, over the decades, enveloped by Richardson Bay.

The Spanish settlers would never have imagined such a fate a century before. Though the Spanish, specifically Don Jose de Canizares, had settled the Bay Area in 1775, their emphasis was fortifying Mission Dolores and the Presidio in San Francisco. Sausalito would not bare the scares of significant development until the late 1800s, when its plentiful timber would make its way to the shipyards of the boom-time Bay.

The commandant of the Presidio, Don Ignacio Martnez gifted William Richardson, his son-in-law, with the land that is present-day Sausalito. During and after the Gold Rush, Sausalito managed to attract a number of artists and celebrities who appreciated the towns picturesque qualities. A few names of note are Alan Watts, the purveyor of Zen Buddhism, Shel Silverstein, the poet, Otis Redding (who composed Sitting on the Dock of the Bay whilst doing just that), and the newspaper magnate, William Randolph Hearst.

With the verdant hills of Marin County on one side and the glistening San Francisco Bay on the other, Sausalito remains a popular tourist attraction. Barring the submerged parts of the city, it is easy to see how someone could scour the Sausalito hotels, bunk down, and never decide to leave. It is a perfect counterpoint to the bustle and congestion of San Francisco and though the cost of living may be too rich for some, it is always available to vacationers and tourists eager to sit on the dock of the bay and waste the time away.

On the occasion that you’re relaxing in your cozy Sausalito hotel, sipping a latte and eating a gourmet burger, remember the little people like me and send me a comment.

Three Indiana State Parks That You Can’t Miss

May 31st, 2010 No comments

When the glaciers passed through Indiana thousands of years ago, they left behind a unique geographic landscape that lends Indiana its unique natural beauty. Few states have everything Indiana has to offer. From majestic sand dunes to deep caves to the beautiful trails of our deciduous forests, Indiana has everything that an adventurer could ever need. If you end up travelling through the Hoosier state, here are three state parks that I highly recommend.

For the sake of variation, and to help you see all that Indiana has to offer, I have selected three state parks that are very different from one another. However, don’t by any means ignore our other state parks as they are every bit as exciting and beautiful as these. Regardless of what you decide to do, now I will speak about the Indiana Dunes, Spring Mill State Park, and the Indiana Shades State Park.

The Indiana Dunes state park can be found up around Chesterton, Indiana along the Lake Michigan lake shore. At the dunes you can expect to find excellent camping amenities, trails, majestic sand dunes that are just waiting to be climbed, and the beaches of Lake Michigan. A day at the beach is one of my favorite ways of cooling off during those hot Indiana summers.

Nearby the town of Mitchell in Southern Indiana you will find the Spring Mill State Park. Spring Mill has a lot to offer, including a pioneer village that you can tour, excellent camping and hiking, and, my favorite, a boat tour down a river that winds through the Twin Caves!

If you are a fan of long scenic hikes, striking sandstone ravines, and adventuresome canoeing and kayaking, then the Shades are for you. Shades State Park is located nearby Turkey Run and is one of the best places to hike and camp in Indiana!

By visiting these three parks you will be treated to but a taste of all that Indiana has to offer the adventurous traveler. So if you ever find yourself vacationing in Indiana, I whole heartedly recommend that you stop by and visit some of our magnificent state parks.

If you seek to learn more about of the top vacation spots in Indiana, check out my site. You will be astounded by the amazing beauty of the top Indiana state parks.

St. George Island Florida: Get Thrilled On A Fishing Vacation

May 28th, 2010 No comments

St. George Island is a little barrier island in Florida that nails down the real idea of a good vacation and adventure to captivate you. Every so often, beaches are heaving full of people and you can’t seem to breathe in a place so crowded and noisy. You are thinking of a different kind of a break: quiet, refreshing and interesting. So you hunt for a setting where you can squander time in worthwhile activities. This pleasant settlement is dwelling to the most amiable people and the whitest shorelines you can find. St. George Island vacation rentals offer you an abode where you can relax and stay for the duration of your vacation.

You can definitely be free from the noise, the crowd and its crazy hum. You have chosen to spend some time being isolated from everything that is so city-like. You can, for a while, forget that busy life where you jump to the shower very sleepy and return home so depleted and exhausted. This is the time to get refreshed because St. George Island Florida brings you the coolest beach vacation and the best holiday pleasure you can find.

You are also witness to how the lovely Florida sunshine makes this place so idyllic. You can delightfully fritter away and notice that time is slow. It’s your chance to dig your toes on the pristine sands while waiting for lunch. This time you can afford to forget the hasty life for a moment. You can savor life that’s simple. Definitely, you can unwind in this beautiful place.

In essence, fishes are not the main thing that made this fishing trip exceptional. It’s all because of that unique feeling that only comes when you have triumphed over the sea elements and your own boredom and thus, you have successfully grabbed your prize with much patience.

Actually it’s not about the fish. It’s really about the feeling you get after you catch one. So just enjoy everything in this island, grab a hat and sunglasses and do your own thing under the sun.

Have a splendid stay at this magical island!

Edison Lee is a freelance writer who appreciates all the finest things that St. George Island can offer, including vacation rental properties and all beachfront homes for rent in the island.

Fun Things To Do In San Diego California

May 26th, 2010 No comments

One of America’s finest city is San Diego that lives up to its nickname. The weather of San Diego gives it an advantage because the climate is not too hot and not too cold. Days are sunny in San Diego and it’s free from annoying earthquakes. Wonderful parks and unsullied wilderness and a huge variety of attractions are present in San Diego making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in America.

If perhaps you are a lover of sports and a fan of spectator sports, San Diego’s have them! You can check out the Padres (MLB), the Wildcats (ABA) and the San Diego Chargers (AFL). As expected, Chargers Tickets are constantly sold out. You can check out your online ticket butler for readily available San Diego Chargers Tickets and enjoy a great game with your friends and family. You can likewise see men’s and women’s soccer teams, rugby, horse racing and hockey. San Diego has also 92 golf courses. Beach activities are hot in San Diego and water sport, camping, hiking, and mountain biking and other sports like lawn tennis, dodge ball – you name it; San Diego’s got it! Moreover, the city has a resilient history as a place for surfers and skateboarders.

On the other hand, it’s not all just with regards to games. San Diego is the ninth most educated city in America. There are a number of public colleges not to mention private institutions and training schools. Bookstores are present everywhere, it goes without mention that there are thirty public library branches that are operating. You can obtain all the entertainment that you opt for, from ballet to modern dance and opera to famous bands from all over the globe. Great shows just about everywhere awaits you.

For every family, San Diego is surely ideal. Families can make the most of the numerous museums, children’s theater, Puppet Theater and more. The San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld Adventure Park, San Diego Wild Animal Park, Legoland are great destinations to visit!

You can surely enjoy dining in San Diego mainly because of the countless gifted young chefs that have set up a quality array of award-winning dining places with their boundless creativity. You can get your tastes buds from traditional Thai foods to Mexican dishes to New Californian cuisines. The best mouth watering local wines are also found in San Diego.

Tourism plays an essential role in San Diego’s economy and there is no surprise about that. Biotechnology, manufacturing, agriculture and defense-related industries are other great contributors.

Regardless of whether you’re heading on for a romantic escape, sports events, family getaway or just girl’s weekend San Diego is definitely ideal for just about any style of vacation. The city has a lot to offer no matter how much your budget is!

Alex Green is a fan of spectator sports. He prides himself in finding Chargers Tickets online. He agrees that you can find cheap San Diego Chargers Tickets through an online ticket butler.

Kendal In Cumbria – A Base In The Lake District

May 26th, 2010 No comments

There are very few areas in the UK that can compare to the Lake District in beauty. If you are planning a vacation in this part of the country then the best town to base yourself in is Kendal in Cumbria. Here you will find accommodation that suits virtually very budget.

Usually described as the main south entrance to the Lake District National park, Kendal is located barely ten miles from the internationally famous Lake Windermere. If you have access to a car then you can also easily travel to other beautiful lakes that are slightly further afield. Lake Windermere itself can keep you occupied for many days. There is the opportunity to learn how to sail a small boat and at certain times you may be able to watch a few water based events and competitions.

Of course the main reason why people choose to come to Cumbria and Kendal specifically is to make full use of the many walking trails in the National Park. There are plenty of hikes that can lead you deep into the Lake District.

Before you set off on any trek, no matter how long, you need to plan carefully. Keep a close eye on the weather as the climate in this part of the country is known for its fluctuations. You may eat your breakfast in warm sunshine but by lunchtime it could be raining very heavy. It makes sense to always keep your lodge informed of your plans. If you are a novice at walking nature trails then choose a hotel that can help to arrange a guide or a tour.

The town has a population of nearly thirty thousand, though in the summer months this swells vastly with visitor numbers. There are various interesting sights within Kendal itself. This includes plenty of historical buildings including two castles, old public houses, fine restaurants, and a warm friendly ambience. Kendal is blessed with a fine location and views that can inspire even the coldest heart.

Up until the turn of the century the major industry in Kendal and Cumbria was wool. The surrounding hills made excellent grazing areas for large flocks of sheep and the many streams and rivers allowed for a source of energy to power the looms.

Though this industry has declined it is still possible to purchase a few items of homespun clothing as souvenirs or gifts. You should not leave without also getting hold of the traditional local delicacy – Kendal mint cake.

Look for hotels in Kendal.

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