Roaring into a New Decade 2020
In all of this, one thing that I have found to be consistent is my passion for travel. I am so grateful that I had the ability to experience all that I have so far whether it be alone, with the people I love, or even with people just there for the moment. Travel when you…
Paradise in Palawan
I have always heard that Palawan, with its picturesque lagoons, secret beaches, and the UNESCO World Heritage Underground River, is one of the most beautiful islands not just in the Philippines, but in the world!
San Diego is Lit: Old Town Trolley “City Lights” Tour.
Some people think of San Diego mostly as a “Day-Time” city, and with perfect sunny weather, beautiful urban parks, and many pretty beach neighborhoods it’s easy to see why. San Diego really does look gorgeous in the daylight! I work in downtown and now that it’s finally the darker half of the year (I do…
A Stay at the Ultra Luxurious, Ultra Haunted, Historic Bourbon Orleans Hotel.
Located in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, the Bourbon Orleans Hotel is a haven for luxury, history, and even a few restless spirits!
Mexico City: Un Ciudad Muy Divertido!
Mexico City is one of the most culturally significant, diverse, and fun cities in the world with plenty going on! Here are just a few things you will experience when you visit Mexico City:
Yummy Mexico City
There are SO MANY delicious places to eat in CDMX that your biggest problem will be deciding which one to go to.
Victorian San Diego’s “Palace of the Arts.”
The grand and stately Villa Montezuma. Built for musician, writer, and Spiritualist, Jesse Shepard in 1887, it was coined the “Palace of the Arts,” a place made for art, music, and literature.
Yummy Tokyo
“Food Heaven” is a real place and it’s called Tokyo! It would take a lifetime to enjoy all the delicious food that Tokyo has to offer but it’s one I am most willing to give!
What we did in Kyoto, Japan.
Kimono, wishes in shrines, Machiya, Matcha, Monkeys, In three days we fell in love with beautiful Kyoto!
Mana and Marae in beautiful Moorea.
The first island we explored on our Polynesian honeymoon and why we fell instantly in love with it: the culturally rich Opunohu Valley.
Tahiti- The Island of Love
Tahiti for our honeymoon. It was truly one of the most memorable trips we have ever taken.
Gaslamp’s Oldest and Most Haunted (???) Structure: The Davis-Horton House.
San Diego’s oldest surviving structure, The Davis-Horton House. Is it haunted? Come in and find out!
Lunch with a Local: Tanoa from Bora Bora.
This was one of the best days we spent on our trip to French Polynesia. Tanoa loves his island so much, and it is obvious that the island loves him back!
Outlander Fan-Girling and other Comic Con Craziness.
Comic Con invades my hometown every Summer and it’s hard not to get caught up in the hoopla ! Check out the fun!
Seeing Things and Eating Wings in Buffalo,NY!
Exploring good eats and cultural treats in Buffalo, NY.
Niagara Falls Was Not What I Thought It Would Be.
Seeing the many photos, travel channel specials, and blogs featuring Niagara Falls made me believe that I’d “seen it” but I was wrong.
The Franklin BBQ Experience in Austin.
So, was waiting in line under the hot, humid Texas sun for six and a half hours for some brisket really worth it?
A Mini Road Trip from the Twin Cities to Mankato, MN.
Instead of just driving myself 100 miles straight to Mankato, I took the opportunity to have a solo adventure in the Twin Cities .
A Bridesmaids Trip to Oahu
Filled with history, natural beauty, and rich culture, Here is my list of the top things you should do while in Oahu:
A Seaside San Diego Wedding
For the past few months, a huge chunk of my time has been occupied with…wedding planning! Yep, your favorite little San Diego adventurer got hitched !
Buffy Slays 20 !
“Every girl who could have the power, will have the power. Can stand up, will stand up. Slayers, every one of us. Make your choice. Are you ready to be strong?” -Buffy. The iconic television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer made it’s debut 20 years ago this month, and this…
Blogger Recognition Award
Huge thanks to Miriam Hurdle from The Showers of Blessing Blog for nominating me for this Blogger Recognition Award.
Travel Whispers Blogger Challenge
The Travel Whispers Blogger Challenge was created by Stephanie Fox and was designed to make bloggers reflect on the best moments of 2016 while looking forward to the travel goals in 2017. It’s a great way to be inspired by fellow bloggers and connect. #TravelWhispers.
Happy New Year from Autumn Aquarius Adventures
You inspire me to be better and for that I am very grateful!
I hope you have a happy 2017 filled with infinite blessings , good fortune, and LOTS of adventure!
Christmas Night at Julian Hotel
There is an adorable historic Bed and Breakfast Inn located smack dab in the middle of Main Street in Julian. You will love this cozy, charming Inn!
Lunch with a Local: Matt from New York City.
“Getting caught up in things is easy in New York City. You start out doing one thing then next thing you know you’re saying, ‘Here take my kidneys!’ ” -Matt Powell.
5 reasons to visit the Madonna Inn
The Madonna Inn is the cutest most whimsical place I ever stayed. If you love being surrounded by romantic ambiance, pretty things, and the color pink, this place will surely tickle your fancy.
The Winchester Mystery House of My Dreams.
Have you ever been to the mysterious Winchester House in San Jose, CA? Pay the spirits a visit on your next trip!
An Out of this World Weekend at Alien Con 2016
This weekend I took my favorite extraterrestrial (aka my dad) to the inaugural Alien Con ! It was definitely an otherworldly experience!
Halloween Fun at San Diego’s Haunted Whaley House.
Check out the Whaley House in Old Town San Diego this Halloween! In October they host a few special events that will definitely get you into the spirit of Halloween.
What It’s Like to be a Guest at The White House.
October 11, 2016. That date is one for the history books in my little world because that was the day I got invited to The White House and met the First Lady of the United States. Crazy, right?
Family, are you in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland did not often come up on my travel radar, but while doing some family genealogy research, I came across some info that piqued my interest and prompted a visit!
Lunch with a Local: Kristin from New Orleans
“New Orleans is simply incredible. The food, the music, the people, how well we throw a party. Here’s to you, Big Easy, and your absolute refusal to drown.”
Goin’ Down the Bayou.
Magical, alluring, and mysterious! I think it’s safe to say that the bayous and NOLA cast a spell on me that I never want to be free from.
P.S. I Love You, Wicklow Mountains !
Wicklow Mountains National Park is a great place to relax, explore, and be inspired. The romance and tranquility that you find there is worlds away. Do not miss it on your visit to Ireland!
A Glimpse of How I see Mankato.
On this last visit to my dad’s hometown, I had some time to myself to catch the sunrise and snap some photos of things I think make this town so special.
Touristing in Dublin! Ireland’s Fair City.
Packed with history, lively pubs, and great music, Ireland’s capital is a good place to start your first adventure in The Emerald Isle.
A Glimpse of Ancient Ireland
Being a history geek you can imagine the excitement and anticipation I felt at getting to visit Newgrange and the Hill of Tara. And no, just seeing it was not enough. I had to be inside of it too of course.
How to Get Photos of Yourself while Solo Traveling.
A good set of photographs are my favorite souvenirs to bring home from my travels. But what if you are traveling alone with no one to help you take your photo?
Doughnut Dreams: Adventures in Oregon
There is no way to fit the amazingness that is the Beaver State into a measly three day weekend, but we sure did try.
Journey Through the Redwood Forests
The Redwoods possess a majesty that once you have wandered among them, you long to get lost among them again and again.
Bretzels and Charm: The Fairy Tale Town of Colmar, France.
Once upon a time in a land far from home, I hopped on a train with a charming prince and was whisked to one of the loveliest towns in all the land.
Getting Lost in Lanai
Seclusion, serenity, and four-wheeling. Sound like bliss to you? Then you need to put the island of Lanai on your list of places to visit ,and just.. get… lost. There is so much to see. All you need is 4X4 vehicle and a sense of adventure about you!
Enchanting Edinburgh, Scotland
The bustle of the Royal Mile, the melodious sound of the bagpipe, the distinctive Scots accent, and the alluring taste of real Scotch Whisky holds a firm grip on my heart.
Mahalo, Maui for the Rad Sunrise!
Haleakala crater is home to one of the most spectacular sunrises in the world thanks to the Hawaiian demi-god Maui, so beloved that the whole island is named after him!
Fall in Love with San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter
Original architecture from bygone eras blend seamlessly with newer buildings. Come get inspired by the rich history of The Gaslamp.
2015: My Year of Letting Go and Going on Adventures!
On this last day of 2015, it’s only natural that I collect my thoughts into a blog post about how extremely grateful I am for all of the blessings I have experienced this year. I am privileged to say that it was one of my best years to date.
Catching the Holiday Spirit in New Orleans
It’s always a good time to visit New Orleans, but if you are looking for a lagniappe of holiday cheer, December is a nice time to visit.
The Magic and Beauty of the Desert
With it’s dramatic sunrises and sunsets, extreme temperatures, semi-isolation, and mysterious legends of aliens and the desert dwelling “Yucca man,” it’s easy to see why the desert is often associated with being a spiritual and magical place.
History and Libations: Throwback Thursdays at The San Diego History Center
Unlimited delicious bites, music, a little bit of History, and unlimited event-themed cocktails and beer? Let the good times roll.
L’empire de la Mort : Walking with the Dead in the Paris Catacombs
The indistinguishable skulls once belonging to real people that stared back at me, gently reminded me that death is a fate none of us will evade. Their remains rest there never to see the light of day again.
Stonehenge: Inside the Ancient Stone Circle.
I was lucky enough to visit Stonehenge just a couple weeks ago and in so doing I turned what I thought would only be a daydream for me into a reality. It was one of the most awe-inspiring experiences ever!
My Night At Kaaboo 2015
The first ever KAABOO kicked off this weekend at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and I must say it was a great time. We couldn’t ask for a better venue or nicer weather, but what else do you expect from a city like San Diego? 🙂
‘Ello, London! Six Reasons I “Fancy” London, England.
Oh, London. The city I have always read, watched, and dreamed about.I felt as though I was in the center of the world; smack dab in the middle of some of my favorite movies and novels.
Gifts From the Hanakapi’ai Trail
So, what’s my plan? I’m not sure yet. I’m just thankful for these little reminders that taking this hike made me remember.
Hidden Caves and Sea Turtles: Navigating the Na Pali by Sea Boat.
I had an absolute blast exploring the Na Pali Coast via boat. If you love the ocean as much as I do, and you’ve got you’re sea legs about you (or some Bonine), hop on the first flight to Kauai, because this is definitely an adventure you will remember forever.
Kauai From the Sky: Heli-Tour of the Island
Kauai is home to some of the most amazingly gorgeous scenery in the world. Most of which is accessible only via boat, hiking, or helicopter tour. So is it worth it?
Surviving the Valley of Fire and Finding the Fire Wave
I dragged the guys off of the ritzy and glamorous Strip to the unforgiving terrain of the surrounding desert called The Valley of Fire, just about 60 miles northeast of Vegas. Good times were had!
Six Reasons New Mexico Is the Land of Enchantment
f you can’t already tell by the theme of my recent posts, I really enjoyed my three day visit to New Mexico, The Land Of Enchantment. It’s a pretty amazing state, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much there was to see, and how much I would love it. Here are six reasons for…
The Other-Worldly Allure of White Sands National Park
White Sands National Monument in New Mexico is a uniquely beautiful place. The white sand dunes undulate for miles like sparkling waves. There is definitely something other-worldly about White Sands National Monument. Get out there and wander among the majestic dunes and see for yourself!
I finally saw the Miraculous Staircase in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
If you are in the pretty town of Santa Fe, definitely make this one of your stops before lunch.
Taos Pueblo: Why You Need to Visit this Historical Treasure.
This amazing cultural treasure is designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. For over 1,000 years, the beautiful adobe dwellings have been continuously inhabited by the Taos Indians.
Carlsbad Caverns: A World of Enchantment
The moment you descend into the depths of the Carlsbad Caverns, you feel as though you are instantly transported into another world. It is something you MUST come and see for yourself and it will make quite the impression on you. Here is how to make the most out of your trip to the Carlsbad…
Gettin’ Spiritual in Sedona
Sedona, with all of its majestic tranquility, is one of the most unique places to visit in the United States. The stunning beauty of the Red Rocks against the quaint town and abundant desert landscape quietly beckons adventurers from all walks of life to explore it’s natural splendors.
Hello Spring!
Days are getting slightly longer, plants are blooming, and Spring Fever is becoming contagious. One of the most colorful ways to welcome the Spring in San Diego is by taking a stroll through the Flower Fields at Carlsbad. This 50 acre botanical ranch offers some of the most amazing scenery, photo opts, and activities for all…
Yummy New Orleans
In New Orleans everything is celebrated, especially good food. No where else is the world will you taste the flavors of Creole and Cajun dishes quite like you will in their birthplace. Anyone who has been following my blog for a while knows about the immense love my favorite travel partner and I have for…
Assistant Buzz Creator Files: Fourth and Final Day at Sundance 2015
Some much needed downtime was scheduled for the team on our last day in Park City. While Cindy and Israel hit the slopes, Tim and I took a nice long stroll along the center of Main Street. I think it was during this walk that I realized, “OMG I’m at Sundance Film Festival!” I actually took in the…
Assistant Buzz Creator Files: Sundance Film Festival Day 2 and 3
Day 2 and 3 of our Sundance Adventure was a whirlwind of events that blended together! For my blog’s sake, I wish I would have taken more pictures and maybe some notes that would help me make this post more interesting, but when you are rushing from event to event your mind is basically on…
Assistant Buzz Creator Files: Sundance Film Festival Day 1
The first day of my FIRST time at Sundance Film Festival has wrapped and it was one crazy ride ! We started off at the ASCAP Music Cafe where we covered some performances by The Duchess and the Fox, Jamestown Revival, The Relationship, and Scott Weiland and the Wildabouts. We got access to the press area which…
One Winter’s Day in Philadelphia
How do you see some of the Nation’s most historic places for cheap in one day? You travel in the dead of Winter of course! Philly is a wonderful city with boundless points of interest and things to do. One day in Philly is not nearly enough to experience all that this amazing city has to offer. But…
Mt. Baldy Winter Wonder
There are very few worries that cannot be quelled by spending a few moments in the serenity of nature. Lately, I seem to have a fondness for escaping to the mountains when I crave some time to reflect. There is something about the high altitudes that seem to change my perspective and make me feel…
Happy New YEAR is the goal!
I wish each and everyone of you a new year filled with abundant blessings and pure happiness! The travel bug bit me pretty hard this year and the effect is lasting well into the next and probably beyond. My outlook on life, with all it’s unexpected twists and turns, has slowly metamorphosed this latter half of the…
My First Impression of New York Part 2: How This SoCal girl got around NYC
As much as I hate to admit it, I can be a bit directionally challenged sometimes. So naturally, how I was going to get around New York was probably the biggest worry I had before I left for my trip. It turned out to be quite the adventure and I ended up with some funny stories…
My First Impression of New York City
You can’t describe New York City in one word! What I can tell you though is that pretty much everything they say about the Big Apple is true. It is one of the most diverse, liveliest cities in the entire world with a plethora of experiences waiting for you to discover. It’s true that if you…
Hallowmas in San Diego
In case it wasn’t obvious, Autumn is my favorite season. I love when it gets dark earlier and the weather gets a bit cooler. It’s true that here in San Diego we may not have an Autumn in the “traditional” sense like most other places, but I love it all…
A Royally Spooky Weekend Aboard the Queen Mary
The Queen Mary is purportedly one of the most haunted places in California. This luxurious ocean liner, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, sailed the seas from 1936 to 1967 and has carried everyone from glamorous celebrities, to royalty, and dignitaries. She has even served in World War II as a troopship transporting thousands…
Seeking Peace and Finding Mother Nature in Yellowstone
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than she seeks.” I visited Yellowstone National Park this Autumn with my family and we stayed at the Lake Lodge Cabins located in the park right by beautiful Lake Yellowstone. The Lake Lodge cabins were very nice and had everything I needed:…
A Mini History Lesson In Cebu
Cebu City, known as the “Queen City of the South,” is the oldest city in the Philippines. Travelers here can see relics from the pre-Christian days of the Philippines and ruins of the first Spanish settlement, along side exquisite modern resorts on picturesque island beaches. Though our time in Cebu city was short, I feel like my…
Waterfall Lunches and Cultural Treasures
We spent a day at the historic Villa Escudero Plantation, known as one of the best places to experience Filipino culture and history.
Hills of Chocolate and Tiny Tarsiers in Bohol
In the middle of the Visayas region of the Philippines sits Bohol, a little island packed with a ton of fun and unusual things to see. In the Bohol province you will find quintessential beach resorts with swimmers and sun bathers galore, geological wonders like Chocolate Hills, and a culturally enriching experience cruising along the…
Getaway to Boracay
There is nothing more relaxing than being on a beautiful island surrounded by the warm and inviting turquoise sea. Laying on the sand staring off at the horizon where the endless blue sky meets the vast ocean just seems to quickly whisk your troubles away and foster creativity and a positive outlook. I am so thankful that…
Argh Matey! Tall ships set sail for San Diego !
I had a blast at the Festival of Sail this year! Warning: My inner geek is coming out again. When I heard that the tall ships were sailing into the Embarcadero, I knew exactly where I was going to spend a good part of my Labor Day weekend. I MUST have been a pirate in another…
Mankato Roots
Mankato is an awesome town where you can find stunning natural beauty, rich history, and really genuine people. When you come here, you will totally understand the meaning of “Minnesota Nice.” I always feel right at home. This is why I can’t get enough of Mankato:
10 Things I Learned in Italy
I will never forget my amazing trip to Italy. I definitely experienced a bit of culture shock and learned many important lessons. Here is a list of ten things I learned and experienced during my trip to Italy.
Assistant Buzz Creator Files: Comic Con Craziness
I know this is a bit late, but it literally took me almost a week to recover from the madness that was Comic Con 2014. It was surreal to me that I actually had a golden ticket to get into the biggest event of the summer.
Off To the Races !
Everyone knows that this is like THE summer event of the season. Anyone who’s anyone is like there…. Okay, that’s cool but I just wanted to see the hats!
Music , Food, History, and Fun at the Third Annual Serra Museum Open House
The Serra Museum celebrated it’s 86th Anniversary yesterday! It was a fun, free event on a beautiful sunny Sunday with music, food, history, and fun!
Oh Give Me a Home, in the Badlands I’ll Roam.
I have always been interested in the history of the American Frontier region and had always wanted to go see Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. The opportunity arose for me last year in the oddest of ways and I have to say, it was one of the most unforgettable trips I have ever…
Little Pillows of Love and The Golden Gate Bridge
A weekend getaway to San Francisco ! Who goes to San Francisco as a tourist and doesn’t see the bridge?!? It’s one of the Wonders of the World people, I need pictures and I need a lot of them!
Visions of Beignets, and Chargrilled Oysters Dancing in My Head
No matter how many places I am lucky enough to see on my travels, my mind continuously wanders back to beautiful New Orleans .
JamieBLT 