TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
The rewards are many for those who venture to Samoa
It takes much effort and time to get to Samoa, as this small, Polynesian island country is situated in the central South Pacific Ocean, halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii. It’s made up of nine volcanic islands, four of which are inhabited. The two largest islands, Savai’i and Upolu, comprise 99% of the nation’s total land area. Though Savai’i has the most land, Upolu has the most people because it’s the commercial center and location of Samoa’s capital, Apia. The total population of the country is approximately 225,000.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Real Hawaii Meets Hollywood at Kualoa Ranch
After spending a few days in Honolulu, you might yearn to escape the skyscrapers and concrete, not to mention the sheer density of people roaming Waikiki. Fortunately, the island of Oahu offers plenty of spots where peace and serenity reign. Less than an hour’s drive from all the hustle and bustle of the city is Kualoa Ranch, a picturesque destination on Oahu’s windward side.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Savor the flavors on an Aloha Plate Hawaii Food Tour in Honolulu
If you want to prime your taste buds Hawaiian style, take an Aloha Plate Hawaii Food Tour with Secret Hawaii Tours while in Honolulu. You’ll sample local food at places the locals eat at, while learning about Hawaiian culture and customs from a born and bred Hawaiian. Just make sure you go hungry!
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Catch some waves on an outrigger surfing canoe ride at Waikiki Beach
If you don’t feel like taking a surf lesson but still want to try an authentic Hawaiian water sport, opt to do an outrigger surfing canoe ride. These boats offer the original Hawaiian rollercoaster experience and Waikiki Beach is the prime spot for this activity.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Use your explorer’s spirit when visiting the National Park of American Samoa
Located some 2,600 miles southwest of Hawai’i, the National Park of American Samoa is one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. It takes much effort and time to get here, but intrepid travelers who make the journey will discover untouched coral sand beaches, secluded villages, rainforests, rare flora and fauna, splendid vistas of land and sea and a rich culture.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Discover the story of the Pacific NW at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Amid mountain peaks and a vibrant urban landscape in Vancouver, WA, you’ll find Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. The site encompasses several unique locales, including a reconstruction of the Hudson Bay Company’s Fort Vancouver, the U.S. Army’s Vancouver Barracks, Pearson Air Museum and the McLoughlin House; the latter which is located across the border in Oregon City, OR.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Take your palette around the world on a Portland by Mouth food tour
Food tours are a great way to explore a city and get to know its vibe, as typically these experiences not only provide an opportunity to sample local dishes, but also offer information and insight into a community. I’ve been on a number of these forays and each time I come away with newfound knowledge and appreciation of the destination and its culinary highlights.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
Experience the coastal charms of Newport, Oregon
With a name like Cape Foulweather, I expected gusty winds and pelting rain on my early winter visit to this area of the Oregon Coast. After all, Captain Cook had coined the name for the place due to the fierce weather and rough ocean conditions he and his crew encountered back in 1778. But as I stood overlooking the scene, this situation couldn’t be further from the truth.
TRAVELS NEAR & FAR
See the highlights of NY Public Library’s famed Schwarzman Building on a docent-led tour
It’s hard to miss the monumental marble building lining Fifth Avenue in New York City. The one with the massive lion statues out front. You might think it’s a museum or a courthouse, or maybe government offices. But no, it’s actually the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the flagship of the New York Public Library system and a National Historic Landmark. And it’s a beaut!
