USA

A Weekend In Hawaii: What To Do With 48 Hours On Kauai

A few weeks ago I launched my newest series, 'Weekends In Hawaii' with my post on what to do with a weekend in Oahu. In case you missed the intro post, since going nomadic, I spent several of my weekends in the islands of Hawaii. Since a weekend isn't nearly enough time to see all that these incredible Pacific islands have to offer, I had to do a lot of preparation and plan my time strategically. I'm sharing those learnings in this series, showing how to make the most of a short visit to each Hawaiian Island. Today, I'm examining Kauai, the garden island, and the northwestern most island in the main...

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Historical Steps in Charleston, South Carolina

The experience of walking the streets of Charleston today isn't that different from 200 years ago - architecturally speaking, anyway. The modern American preservation movement first began in Charleston in 1920 and the exquisitely preserved historic buildings stand testament to this. While other historic districts have fallen victim to tall buildings, parking garages, and chain restaurants, Charleston's historic district is unique in just how thoroughly preserved the neighborhoods are. With the exception of one 11 story 'skyscraper' built in the early 20th century, the low rise skyline is forever...

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Framing The Holy City – Photography In Charleston, South Carolina

With the beautifully preserved buildings and the historic charm, a city like Charleston is inviting to amateur and professional photographers looking to capture the unique city in their viewfinder. It's easy to get lost in the small streets and colonial buildings, photographing the intricate architectural details, unique flora, or the ancient cobblestone streets of Charleston. To get a different perspective on this historic city, I signed up for a photography tour with Charleston History Tours. Joyce Aungst is a damn Yankee (a Northern visitor who never leaves) and has been guiding her photography...

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Visiting Chicago, Illinois: The Local’s Take with Pola of ‘Jetting Around’

John’s note: The Local’s Take is a series where I interview some of my favorite travel bloggers and turn the tables, asking them to share their hometowns with us. After all, what better way is there to learn about a destination than from a travel writer who calls it home? So join along and learn how to make the most of a visit to Chicago, Illinois with Pola of Jetting Around. Name: Pola Henderson Hometown: Chicago, IL (adopted hometown since 2002) Website: Jetting Around: City Travel Blog Twitter: @jettingaround Facebook: Jetting Around Pola Henderson is the founder and editor of Jetting...

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The Saguaro Cactus of Phoenix, Arizona in Photos

I've been working in Phoenix, Arizona for the last couple months now and as the rest of the country descends into the icy grip of winter, I can honestly say I'm quite content out here in the desert. Perhaps no symbol is more emblematic of the great Sonoran desert than the Saguaro cactus - that tall, stately (and spiny) plant that thrives in the near-drought like conditions of Arizona. Saguaros can be found all throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area - in front lawns of private homes, along wide municipal boulevards, and even planted decoratively in front of McDonalds and Wal-Marts. But to really...

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