Local, Near and Far: Our journey of exploring the world.

Category: Outdoors (Page 1 of 5)

Chandler, Arizona: A Fun Family Adventure

Welcome to Chandler, Arizona!  Chandler is a thriving city in the tech industry located minutes away from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.  While business may take you to Chandler, we recommend bringing the entire family!  There are many fun family activities just waiting for you.  Here are our family’s favorite things to do, see and eat in Chandler.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Chandler puts a huge emphasis on public parks.  Their goal is to have a city park within 1 mile of every house, and they have come close to achieving that goal!  The city is 70 square miles, and they currently operate 63 parks.  Perhaps one of the most popular parks is Playtopia! at Tumbleweed Park.  Check out the gigantic covered playground, and don’t miss the kid’s zipline!  The inner child in you will love Playtopia! too!

Family Fun at Playtopia! at Tumbleweed Park

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Mackinac Island: Simpler Times & Family Fun

Have you ever imagined a place where life was a little more simple? An escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the traffic, the noise? A place where you can wander through miles of beautiful walking trails and stroll pristine beaches? Well, we found it:  Mackinac Island, Michigan!

Squeezed between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, Mackinac Island is a step back in time. There are no cars on the Island (save for a few emergency vehicles). Your travel choices include walking, bike or horse. Within a few minutes of stepping out of your hotel room, you are walking on the beach, or several beautiful trails meandering through the woods. But wait, there’s more!

Here is a rundown of some of the things we loved the most about Mackinac Island.

Mackinaw Bridge at Sunset

Mackinaw Bridge at Sunset

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Grand Rapids: Outdoor Adventures in Beer City

For the last couple of years, my travels have predominantly taken me international – which is great, don’t get me wrong. However, I always feel a bit guilty missing out on locations in the States. I recently had the opportunity to visit Grand Rapids, Michigan – a city and a state I had never visited. Simply put, I loved this trip. The only possible downside was that the trip was too short. Cliche I know, but really, I could definitely imagine spending weeks in Michigan and still only scratching the surface of fun things to experience.

Grand Rapids, the second largest city in Michigan and nicknamed “Beer City,” quickly won over my heart. And not just because of the beer; there are endless things to do in Grand Rapids to suit all tastes. What might one do in Grand Rapids? I’m glad you asked!

The Great Outdoors

One of the most pleasant surprises of visiting Grand Rapids was the number of outdoor activities. Here are a few:

Rosy Mounds Natural Area overlooking Lake Michigan

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Wyndham Austin: A Texan’s Welcome to Austin

There is a reason Austin has been named the No.1 city to live by US News and World Report for two years in a row.  Actually there are many reasons!  So, if you can’t live here, please come visit us a fast as you can.  And if you are looking for a place to take in all the excitement of Austin, the Wyndham Austin is a perfect place to start!

Wyndham Austin Owner's Page Article, Photo #3 - Our Son Enjoying the View

Our Son Enjoying the View of Austin from our Room

Staying at the Wyndham Austin

The Wyndham Austin is a spectacular way to be introduced to this wonderful city, or to welcome you back.  Located in downtown, everything is easily accessible with a staff that is professional and helpful.  The suites are thoughtfully designed to make you feel comfortable and relaxed as soon as you walk in. 

Wyndham Austin Owner's Page Article, Photo #4 - Rooftop Infinity Pool

Rooftop Infinity Pool complete with views of Austin

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A Day Trip to Versailles: A Photographic Stroll

The Palace of Versailles is easily the most opulent building in Europe!  What started as a hunting lodge, quickly became an extravagant home for the French royalty.  The palace and its beautiful grounds are now owned by the people of France.  Just a short train ride outside of Paris, we highly recommend a visit to this conveniently-located country estate.

When arriving, the crowds will be overwhelming.  However, the line moves quickly.  Spend some of your wait time by taking selfies, an absolute must before entering the Palace.

Rebekah & David at the Palace of Versailles

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