Happy 27th Birthday, Michael! Have a wonderful day.

Costa Rica Zip-Line!

I never thought I would try zipping on a line, high above the ground, surrounded by jungle-like brush...but "friend and cousin pressure" found me rigged up in special equipment to do just that. I felt fairly macho with all the sturdy hooks, chains and wraps...I especially liked the helmet. An AARP Magazine article I had recently read, recommended trying at least one "out of your comfort level" adventure per year to keep young. This was mine. In the end...I loved it and Sharon, (photo above in action) who was eager to do this adventure, hated zip-lining and couldn't wait to be back on the ground.

Back at camp, (Left to right) me, our guide, Laura, and Sharon took a celebratory photo.



My least favorite part of zip-lining was the ride up the mountain. We loaded into a tractor-pulled, open-aired trailer with about 15 other people. For being newly acquainted, we were certainly experiencing a close encounter of the uncomfortable kind. We were pressed together far more tightly than I've experienced with people I've known for years--especially as we ascended the hill, gravity had me in another persons space and someone I just met was in mine. The tractor's engine grinded loudly as it struggled to climb higher, toward the first zip-line platform. I was uncertain whether the professionally secured (yeah right...professionally secured...in Costa Rica?) hitch would hold strong. I could visualize our fate: a slow-motion careen over the edge of the cliff....never to be heard from again. But alas, we successfully reached the mountain top, safely scaled 13 zip-lines, and arrived back to our starting place without incident. It was far more pleasant than expected. I didn't like the ride up...but I loved the ride down!

Favorite 2009 Adventure Vacation: Costa Rica

The above tree in Costa Rica was filled with tons of Macaws... but I zeroed in on one to get a better photo. The sunset photo was taken from the living room of our villa in Jaco, Mexico. This was one of the only nights we could actually see the setting sun. Most of the other nights the sky was too hazy. The beach shot is from Manuel Antonio...voted "One of the 100 best places to visit before you die. " I can see why. The beach was gorgeous, the wildlife plentiful. I wish we would have stayed closer to this park as the scenery in the Manuel Antonio area was more "jungle-ish." It seemed more Costa Rica to me.

Costa Rica was more like an adventure vacation mixed in with some relaxation. Adventure one day...relax the next. I went with two friends, Annette and Sharon...and my cousin, Laura. We stayed at a VRBO.com property in Jaco that advertised: Penthouse with two bedrooms, great ocean view, and air conditioning. All advertised info was true...we climbed steps to the top floor where we found the entire front of the villa faced the ocean--we were steps from the beach. It was grand...not necessarily because of the decor (even though the decor was very nice with granite counters, tile floors, huge custom tile shower), but because of the view. The multiple large accordion glass doors rolled to the side allowing unobstructed views of sunrises, ocean, beach, partial sunsets, and locals enjoying the surf. The disappointment of this property...air conditioning was only located in the bedrooms and it was sweaty hot--even at night. One person slept in the living room each night and there was no heat relief except from the overhead fans that ran constantly tyring to cool the place down. We were later told that the owner prefers to be cooled by the ocean breezes coming through the open doors. That is fine...when it is cooler and the breezes do their job. It wasn't so great in April when the breezes are humid.

Even though I personally felt safe in Costa Rica, a couple things did leave me a bit on guard. The property does have constant round-the-clock security. That's a good thing. We felt very safe on the property. However, when we picked up our keys in town from the property manager, the heavy iron-gated door was locked--even during daytime business hours--and you have to be "buzzed" in. That was concerning but it was even more troubling to hear the agents warning when we picked up our car at the rental agency. "If you get a flat tire, keep going. If someone tries to help...don't let them." The agent went on to explain tourists in rental cars are often targeted for vandalism. Gangs will slash tires, offer to help...then rob the tourists. "Yippee," I thought sarcastically. We did end up with a flat tire, but it was at our resort. Security changed the tire and all was well. We are not sure when/where the flat happened...but when we went to the car one evening, the tire was flat.

We spent many hours, due to the extreme humid heat, relaxing in/near the on-site pool . Lounging on the water on blow-up rafts, listening to the calm man-made waterfall, reading, chatting, and sipping beverages made it hard to want to go off and explore in the heat. We also had a perfect view of the macaw migration. Every day macaw pairs would fly directly above us...cawing loudly. They always flew in pairs--it is my understanding that they mate for life. We never saw a single macaw. These colorful birds filled the trees along roadsides and in the parks we visited.

There are hundreds of monkeys at Manuel Antonio Park and I believe I took pictures of every single one. However, am only posting a couple. They were amazing to watch. However, for me, the best surprise was watching a sloth. In fact, my friend Sharon, told the guide, "I'd like to see a sloth." So we turned...and there was a sloth. Then she said, "I'd like to see a baby sloth." The guide seemed la bit agitated and down-played her request. "It is extremely unlikely you see a baby," he said. I think he was concerned about his tip as he made excuses on how we should not get our hopes up about seeing such a site that day. But when we turned to look back toward the jungle...there was a mama sloth and her baby. And even a daddy too. We saw the whole family. After that, we just asked Sharon..."what do you want to see?" We figured if she put her request out in the universe, it would just show up like magic!

Our adventure in Costa Rica also took us on a Mangrove Tour where we saw crocodiles on land, lurking in the water, and ready to get in the water, birds flying, resting, and nesting, jungle trees that expand from one single root to great distances, and we even learned some history of the area. We spotted "Crocodile Island" which is named correctly since tons of crocs were unconcerned with us...lazily sunning themselves while we snapped photos.

I would like to go back to Costa Rica some day and spend more time on the Caribbean side as well as more time in Manuel Antonio Park. I loved the wildlife...and I want to spend time on that beach!

The French Riviera

Our first port on this itinerary was Cannes, France on the French Riviera. Every stop seemed uniquely special...turning each one into my "favorite." The first time I went to Paris --in February 1996--I was a bit overwhelmed by the people. It was my first trip overseas and I found the "French" to be rather rude. I don't know if this trip felt different because I have a bit more travel experience under my belt. Or maybe it's because people are more laid-back on the riviera than in Paris. But I loved this part of France and would definitely go back. The people seemed warmer...friendlier...and that is a good thing!

We toured several towns in the riviera via motor coach and the scenery looked a lot like Italy to me. (Or Italy looks a lot like the French Riviera.) Small villages were filled with unique church steeples, courtyards, olive trees, architecture, and more. Diana and I shared a true french chocolate pastry in Frejuis and it was divine. France apparently closes down on Sunday, so it was difficult to find any shops, cafes, bakeries (patisseries) open for business during our short visit. The one thing I noticed on this trip--and don't remember seeing the last time I was in France or Italy--were carousels. Along the waterfront, a large pastel carousel greeted us with soft white lights and french music. Delighted children hugged the painted wooden horses as they glided up and down, and drifted round and round while their parents watched. Yet the carousels weren't just in France. I noted one in Lucca as well as Genoa, and several other cities throughout our travels. Since I never noticed even one during my last visit, I wondered, "are carousels a winter activity that disappear once summer arrives?" I will certainly be looking to see if this is seasonal when I return in May. The French Riviera definitely needs more exploring!

photos on left: Frejuis, France. photos on right: Cannes, France

Portofino, Italy

Since Portofino was basically abandoned during November, we were lucky to find a place to eat. After exploring the hillside, as well as the town, Diana and I selected this risterante which used a huge wood-fired oven to bake our pizza--right in front of us. Very tasty indeed!

More Portofino, Italy

Portofino Italy...we arrived by ferry to this sleepy little town. "Normally, it is not so sleepy." said the guide. In fact, Madonna recently celebrated a birthday at one of the castles and the town was vibrant with activity. But in November, the tourists leave and most of the shops were closed for the winter season. That was fine by me. I was able to explore some of the cobblestone paths on foot. My favorite was the one that wandered through the upper hillside overlooking the town...out to the farthest point--where a white lighthouse stood warning boaters of danger during rough seas.

Below, this Portofino home was erected on the steep hillside that lined the path leading out to the lighthouse. No cars on this road. So to reach this property, you must be willing to walk...and carry all your supplies. The green vines and Itailian charm seduced me into taking a closer picture of the workmanship.

Lucca, Italy

I love Italy. The little town of Lucca was a surprise. It is a walled city where locals bike and walk along the upper edge for pleasure and for exercise. Main mode of transportation: bicycles. They were everywhere....being ridden, ready to be ridden, parked, locked, and in some cases...stacked. I wondered how people untangle their bike from the masses. The sculptures and architecture in Lucca are also charming. When we were there, wandering the streets early in the morning, hardly any tourists or even locals were out and about. As the morning warmed up...more bikes were on the cobblestone streets and we were narrowly missed by riders on several occasions. The cyclists ding, ding, ding their bells as they encourage you to let them by. My favorite square was the round yellow square "Anfiteatro" in Lucca. Many shops, restaurants pour into the square during business hours. I'm going back to Lucca in May and I can't wait. When there in November, a hotelier--along a quiet back street-- invited us in to check out their accommodations. I took literature and emailed for reservations upon our return later this year. We will be staying at the sister property which is very near Anfiteatro. I can't wait to explore this town a bit more intimately and to share my favorite piazza with Italian families in the evening.

Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy...it is not to be missed. But my first trip to Italy did not take me in this direction. This time, the ship docked in Civitavecchia and I broke down and booked a ship excursion--mainly for the transportation to/from Rome which was a couple hours away. I did not want to miss getting back to the ship. Diana had been here the year prior and decided to stay on the ship. Since it is such a large city, with so much to see, an escorted excursion would be the ideal way to see this city on my own.

Rome is an amazing place. When you walk amongst the ruins, you think, "I'm walking in the same place Julius Ceasar walked." The fountains, the architecture, the food...and even the colorful and flavorful gelato--everywhere one looks in Rome...there is something spectacular to see.

Adventure On Our Return from The Island of Capri

On the return trip to Naples (from the Island of Capri), we chose the "fast" vs. the "slow" ferry with approximately 300 passengers on board. We paid extra for the "fast" ferry. We were not necessarily in a hurry, but we wanted to arrive in plenty of time so as not to miss our ship...maybe even explore a bit of Naples. Yet halfway across the channel, the "fast" ferry went slower and slower and slower. Looking over the edge, I saw several Italian men standing in a circle smoking and adding what looked like "oil" onto an engine. I asked if there was a problem. They just smiled. They didn't speak English and I didn't speak Italian...so it seemed we had a communication problem. Several other passengers started to notice and began discussing the possibility of sinking in the middle of the channel. Trying not to become alarmed, I asked my traveling friend, Diana if she could swim. and she said yes. We looked around for life jackets, but found none. Then a couple of the Italian guys ran to the top level with a hand-pump and blew up this raft. Now I was alarmed. I saw no other lifeboats, located no life jackets, and this raft was not going to hold 300 passengers. We eventually chugged our way back to Naples and docked safely...an hour and a half later than planned, but in plenty of time to board our cruise ship. When I showed John this picture, his comment was, "they weren't preparing the raft for the passengers...it was for the crew...you were screwed!"

Island of Capri (Naples)

Our cruise stop in Naples allowed us to design our own excursion to the Island of Capri. Turns out the island has several small villages. We arrived by ferry at a sea-level village and immediately found homes hugging the steep cliffs high above us--bekoning us to explore. Soon we happened upon a Funicolare--cable/train-like transportion that ran on some sort of track system that climbed the steep cliffs to the upper city. Upon arrival in the upper village, we noted bougainvillea was still in bloom, even though it was mid-November. The towns people were busily preparing for the holidays--decorating Christmas trees, hanging garland, and socializing.

After exploring the upper village, we hopped on a city bus which took us along exposed steep cliffs to another town on the island, Annacapri. I am not afraid of heights...but I am afraid of "steep." I practically laid down on the bus floor as the driver weaved the fully loaded bus along the narrow roads. A seated man kept offering me his position by the window...but he didn't understand. I did not want a view--the setting was gorgeous....but I did not want to see the cliffs!

In Annacapri, we found another surprise. An old individually-seated ski lift that takes people to the top of the island. We decided to try this adventure too. For some reason, the ride up to the top was not nearly as traumatic as the bus ride for me. The views were breathtaking and we could see much of the area. But it was a hazy day...or the views would have been spectacular!

Barcelona, Spain

Only one day in Barcelona...so our preferred method of transportation was the hop-on, hop-off bus. Using this method, we had a complete tour of the city and were able to take time to explore the downtown mall area where most of the locals were enjoying the mimes and restaurants. No, it wasn't at long enough. We could have spent several more days in Barcelona. It is a beautiful city with lots to do. I will definitely go back.

Mime in Barcelona, Spain...

My BEST Travel Deal For 2009!

BEST DEAL FOR 2009! Celebrity Cruises, November 2009. Cruise itinerary: Barcelona, Spain; Cannes, France; Genoa (access to Portofino)/Livorno (access to Lucca and Pisa)/Civitavecchia (access to Rome)/Naples, Italy.

Found this last-minute cruise on Sidestep.com for an interior cabin for only $349! With taxes it was close to $450. Airfare was no more than what we paid one year ago--slightly less than $1,000. Generally, I only book exterior cabins, but price was right...so grabbed this cabin only to be surprised with an upgrade to a balcony cabin with concierge service at no additional charge. Above photo: Barcelona architecture--visually stimulating everywhere you look!

Casa Pacifica, San Pancho, Mexico

San Pancho photos: Downtown area was in process of upgrading when we were there. Note the beautiful murals on the wall near the town plaza and that the ocean was viewable from many locations in this quaint town.

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Vendors were not a common sight in San Pancho when we were there. However, there were a few vendors/artists in the town plaza who were selling unique handcrafted items.

Below: The main street was "under construction" during our visit and very primitive. They were hand-laying actual clay bricks on the entire street.

We can't wait to go back and see the finished product.

This dog was sleeping in the middle of the street...not a care in the world. He accurately reflected our impression of this wonderful vacation getaway.

Casa Pacifica: San Pancho, Mexico. Also known as San Francisco Beach. My husband and I loved this place. I hate to share this location because we would rather keep it to ourselves. However, this town depends upon tourists. There are great restaurants, a 3-mile secluded beach and small local markets. If you want an authentic "Mexico" experience...try San Pancho.

We are not comfortable renting cars in Mexico so our group (3 couples) used a shuttle service. Round trip from Puerto Vallarta airport around $150 for all. San Pancho is approximately 45 minutes from the airport. The shuttle service was kind enough to stop at a large Mega Super Store en route so we could stock up on groceries. Great idea since this is such a small town. We only had to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables the rest of the week. For us...this was a vacation dream!

Favorite 2009 VRBO Vacation: San Pancho, Mexico

More pictures from our stay in San Pancho. Left: The sunsets were spectacular every single night. Below: The one large hotel/resort in town, Costa Azul was located "right on the beach" and just a short walk from our casa. It had a refreshing pool and outdoor restaurant where we enjoyed two memorable meals. Memorable because we were served by Julio who spoke excellent English. The first night, all of our food came exactly as ordered. After such a great first experience, we decided to dine there a second time. As we ordered, Julio reported, with great sadness, "oh, no more guacamole....oh no more salsa...oh, no more peppers." It was rather humorous to us and we took this in stride (we were informed it was a Mexican holiday and all suppliers were closed)...after all, we were in Mexico...right on the beach...and so....no problem.

One lazy day in San Pancho, we decided on a re-commended small adventure.....a walk through the jungle to a very private beach. We carried Corona's in a back pack, trudging on the jungle road to reach this secluded area. We were surprised to find a partial shelter from dried palms waiting to shade us from the sun. The guys set up "Jimmie and John's Cabana Bar." All were welcome, but were encouraged to arrive early before the beer ran out!

One of our favorite "in-town" restaurants was La Ola Rica. This is located on the main street and operated by Gloria and Trina. Gloria is actually from our hometown, Silverton, Oregon. She has lived in San Pancho for about 10 years. We dined here twice, the food was awesome both times...and they didn't run out of anything!

Right: Our courtyard near sunset.

Below: We walked San Pancho beach daily and enjoyed the waves hitting the rocks right in front of our casa. The hut above was actually an "on-the-beach" restaurant. We enjoyed a relaxing lunch, drinks, and the spectacular ocean views several times during our week.

Favorite 2009 VRBO vacation: San Pancho, Mexico

Our VRBO was located in a sleepy little town north of Puerto Vallarta. Casa Pacifica has 4 bedrooms and the most magnificient courtyard and view of the ocean. It was a an extremely peaceful and relaxing time with friends. We would go back in a heartbeat! We felt extremely safe and locals say that tourists are very well taken care of...we found that to be true. We found only hospitality and kindness in this community. Check VRBO #48609

My travel friends (internet sites):
sidestep.com, rci.com, vrbo.com (vacation rentals by owner), any airline frequent flyer programs that I am a member of, marriott.com--my favorite hotel frequent stay program, but I am a member of many others too, tripadvisor.com.

When I stay at a hotel or fly with a specific airline, I join their mileage program. I try to use the partner of that particular airline or hotel chain whenever possible to try to accumulate the most miles.

How do I keep track of all these programs? An excel spreadsheet. It is particularly important to keep track of ones that expire. For instance some airline program miles expire if not used within a period of time, i.e. 18 months or 2 years. In order to keep these accounts active and the miles from expiring, I may put a rental car (partner) on that account to keep the miles active. Use these programs for YOUR benefit. You can travel more if you get some of your travel free. It is worth it to me.

Timeshare Thoughts...

I'm not a fan of timeshares. I think they are expensive and one is limited to when and where one can go based upon current availability. Even though, from my experience, during a "timeshare presentation" the sales person implied that trading was "easy." What I think he meant to say was...”trading is easy if you don't want to use it on Christmas break, spring break, summer break, or Thanksgiving--when everyone else wants to use their week.”

Having said that...I love mine. I didn't have to pay the initial buy-in fee (which I learned was $10k). My dad and mom did that. They used it for several years before they decided they no longer wanted to travel extensively, nor did they want the expense of the annual maintenance fee. They gifted it to me and my siblings. Each of us received 1/4 share in their home resort, a 2-bedroom unit, red (best rated) week near Mt. Hood, Oregon. So we get to use it once every four years. Perfect. And it turns out, even though the annual maintenance fee (which is really a weekly fee since my parents only purchased one week) is nearing $600—this fee still represents a fairly decent value for a 2-bedroom unit. In other words, it is not likely I could find a 2-bedroom unit in a resort of this caliber for less than $86/night.

Yet, I have not used the (home) Mt. Hood resort since I received this "gift." I live in the Northwest—near Mt. Hood. Generally my choice extended vacation is to travel to warmer climates. So we are a member of RCI (timeshare exchange). And this costs money too. Just to join an exchange group can be several hundred dollars for a 3-5 year membership period. Fortunately, if my siblings also want to exchange during their year, we could split this expense. RCI then charges an additional fee to make an "exchange." There is one price for within the U.S. and another (higher) price for international exchanges. So far, I have traded to Whistler, Canada, and to Kona, Hawaii. My siblings have made exchanges to Hawaii, Lake Tahoe, Scotland, and Montana.

But for me, the best part of being a timeshare owner and member of RCI is the “extra” or “last minute” vacations. These make my ¼ ownership expenses worthwhile and I get more bang for my buck. For instance, last year we purchased a last minute 1-bedroom week at Legacy Golf Resort in Phoenix, Arizona for around $400. It was a beautiful property and well worth it. Another time we purchased an extra vacation in St. Thomas at Bluebeard’s Castle (a “just okay” timeshare with magnificent views in a tropical Caribbean location) for around the same price. Again, a great deal due to the location. And once, we booked a two-bedroom unit at a Welk Resort in Escondido, California. This was an amazing resort property with several pools, walking areas, and access to lots of area recreation for $800 for a week, but split between two couples, ended up at $400 each.

Before booking, I compare hotel prices, vacation rentals by owners, and other options before determining whether or not an exchange or extra vacation is the “best” deal. When it is a great deal…I book it. I would never purchase another timeshare week (or even points)…why should I? I can get all the extra or last minute vacations I want…without a weekly (annual) maintenance fee. I can search properties on line at RCI.com, pay a discounted rate, and travel only when it’s convenient for me. Once retired, we hope to take even greater advantage of these bargain prices!

***Above photos (during Whistler timeshare stay): Me! on the top of the highest peak...seemed like looking out over the top of the world (going up on the ski lift was far worse than coming down), 1 of 23 bears spotted on Whistler "Bear Tour," and Whistler flowers...oh, so pretty.