Betsy's Travel Blog

2009-05-03T16:08:00.000-07:00

On Safari in South Africa

There have been a few trips that, for me, can be considered "trips of a lifetime." Going on Safari in Africa was a life-long dream. At Londolozi in South Africa we saw leopards mating. It was one of the most amazing, and memorable, times of my life.

The female leopard rolls over onto her back each time after mating for a better chance for the sperm to get to the egg. Leopards mate once a year and it goes on about every 15-20 minutes for 2-3 days. The poor male gets so exhausted that sometimes he'll try to climb a tree to get away from the female.

2009-03-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

King George Wakeboards on Trinity Lake!

For his 70th birthday, George received a crown, meant to be worn while wakeboarding, from the Garretts. Here is proof positive that King George not only wore the crown, but didn't even get it wet!

What an AWESOME guy!

We're waiting anxiously for lake season to arrive. Hope to share it with many of my favorite people.

2009-03-16T16:18:00.000-07:00

Small cafe in Eureka has name in Travel and Leisure Magazine!

While perusing the April issue of Travel and Leisure Magazine I came across an item under New Places to Eat in their special advertising section for California. The F Street Cafe is being called a gourmet hideaway in Northern California. Now, I don't know if that's a paid advertisement, or if someone just thought it was worthy. Either way, I'm impressed! Congratulations to the hard working staff at F Street Cafe in Eureka. My mouth is watering just thinking about dinner.

2009-03-15T21:19:00.000-07:00

Baseball Season is upon us! I can tell because it's cold and windy!

When President Obama was interviewed by Stuart Scott from ESPN he said that Wrigley Field is all about beer and beautiful people. Now that's my kind of baseball park!

If anyone out there gets a chance to watch the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field prove Obama wrong. Go there to seriously watch a Cubs Game.

2009-03-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

Spring Migration Continues

You otter've been there! It was more than just geese today. Sunrise, deer, and otters. A truly beautiful morning.

2009-03-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

"Metasearch Engine" to find best travel values

Here's a link to an article that lists search engines that go beyond Travelocity and Expedia: http://tiny.cc/Rx3lu

I especially like Kayak.com and Mobissimo, but check them out for yourself and be an informed traveler.

2009-03-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

Aleutian Geese

Spring Migration

The Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge opened its gates at 6 a.m. this weekend to allow the public to watch thousands of geese wake up and take off on their way north. There are up to 90,000 geese that come through Humboldt County on the Pacific Flyway, an "aerial highway" used during migration. That's a far cry from their status in the early 1970s when they were on the brink of extinction.

Both days were beautiful--but today, Sunday, the clouds reflecting off the water during sunrise made for some fabulous photo ops.

2009-03-06T18:17:00.000-08:00

Lassen Volcanic National Park Makes Frommer's Top Destinations for 2009

Take a few days to see waterfalls and wildflowers in Northern California. A fabulous drive this time of year is along Hwy. 70 from Oroville to Quincy. The Feather River National Scenic Byway that meanders through the Feather River Canyon is going to have a brilliant wildflower bloom. Right now the redbud and buttercups are starting the season, which will continue through May.

Just north of Quincy, Hwy. 89 heads up to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Frommer's Travel Guide listed this park as a top destination for 2009! While you're there, spend some time hiking around. The views are fabulous. Don't miss Bumpass Hell, where boiling mud pots are a constant reminder that you're standing on a volcano!

2009-03-05T18:16:00.000-08:00

Moo...

Hello from the Arcata Bottom

It's beginning to be cycling season. Time to get back into those bright jackets and warm gloves and head out to the Arcata Bottom. Young calves love to greet you at the fence, hoping you'll be there with treats--but don't do that! Just talk to them. They're so cute!

The daffodils are blooming and this is "The Bottom" at its best. Time to let the sun dry our moldy skin. Start your ride at the Arcata Plaza, where you'll find a good selection of options for your morning joe. My favorite place for breakfast is the Big Blue Cafe, for a simple one-egg breakfast that includes the best chile beans. Nice complimentary protein for a bike ride.

See you at Mad River Beach!

2009-02-27T07:51:00.000-08:00

When we were in Western Australia we found a boutique winery in Mumballup, halfway between Yabberup and Noggerup.

Mandalay Estate Winery is one of very few wineries in Western Australia that make zinfandel...our very favorite! While we were there they told us about their daughter, Liz, who was getting ready to open a restaurant in San Francisco.

The restaurant, South, is in South Beach San Francisco, an up-and-coming culinary center. Liz is partners with two other ex-pats, Anna Weinberg from New Zealand, and Luke Mangan from Australia. Luke also owns Salt in Tokyo, and Glass Brasserie in Sydney, and has published three cookbooks.

This is a place where you can experience the taste of down under in an intimate, neighborhood restaurant. The wine list features wines from the southern hemisphere, and the menu includes specialty items from New Zealand and Australia.

2009-02-25T12:49:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas, Baby!

I love Las Vegas! There's something about the energy there that gets me so excited! I'm not much of a gambler...George and I usually allot ourselves $20 a day for gambling (big spenders!) but I hate to lose so I rarely will even spend that!

But what I really like about Las Vegas is the hiking there. Red Rock Canyon is fabulous! One morning we went early and hiked with the Bighorn Sheep. They followed us for about an hour.
Another favorite spot is Arizona Hot Springs. A 5.6 mile hike passes through a beautiful slot canyon, past the shore of Lake Mohave, and to a series of hot springs accessed by a steep ladder. Bathing suits are optional!

2009-02-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

This year should be an explosion of color for desert wildflowers. With the snow in December, and the rains in February, the stage is set for a spectacular season.

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, just 15 miles away from Lancaster in Southern California, is known for displaying an ocean of color when the time is right.

I think the time is going to be right this year. The bloom is usually between mid-March and mid-May. The duration of the bloom varies from year to year.

The Reserve's website will have up-to-date information regarding the bloom. I sure would like to buzz down there for a couple of days to see it. I'd love to take my camera!

2009-02-23T12:08:00.000-08:00

Visit the Grand Circle in Southern Utah

Take time this year to visit some of our national treasures. The Grand Circle route in Southern Utah has some of the most spectacular scenery that I've ever seen. Just seeing it is a lesson in geography!

Delicate Arch, in Arches National Park, is worth planning for. Take a hike late in the afternoon and watch the sunset from there.

Bryce Canyon is another geological marvel. We got up before sunrise to get some good pictures. It was in early May, and the temperature was 8 degrees. But it was worth every shiver!

We stayed at the Best Western Ruby's Inn at Bryce. They have good RV spots, and lots of motel rooms, plus a great restaurant for breakfast. Even that early in the year there were bus loads of foreign tourists.

2009-02-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

SkyAuction for Super Deals

SkyAuction is like a cross between eBay and Priceline. It’s similar to eBay because you bid on an item within a certain amount of time, and you can continue to “up” your bid until it closes. It’s similar to Priceline because its focus is strictly travel.
SkyAuction.com offers:
Cruises
Air/Hotel Packages
Vacation Rentals
Car Rentals

And just about any combination or single item you may want. Keep your eyes on the Hot Travel Deals and Auctions Closing Soon. Frequently you can find a vacation rental for a week for just one dollar. On top of that dollar there’s a Tax and Service Charge for the week.

Here’s an example of what’s available today at a bid of One Dollar:

One Mile from Heavenly Ski Resort7 Nights at Lake Tahoe Vacation ResortSouth Lake Tahoe, California
Tax and Service charge for the week is $295.

This is truly BUDGET TRAVEL!

2009-02-23T11:46:00.000-08:00

Priceline Does it Again!

While planning an April trip to Phoenix we needed to rent a car. Being a Hertz Gold Club Member we first went to the Hertz website to see what price we could get. For the week that we needed the car the price, including service charges and taxes, was going to be more than $500.
Even though we’re loyal Hertz customers, this was just too much to pay. I got on Priceline.com, ready to accept a rental agency that, in my opinion, is not as professional as Hertz. I put in a bid of $18 a day, and with service charges and taxes the total was $221. That was more like it!
I hit the key to confirm my bid, and waited a minute or two while the computers searched cyberspace for a willing company. And low and behold, I got my price! Not only that, I got a Hertz car!
Once again, Priceline has come through for us. We’ve used it for flights, hotels, and cars, and have yet to be disappointed.

2009-02-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

Just spent a fabulous four days in Bend, Oregon with eleven of my favorite people. We had clear blue skies and cool weather, creating the ultimate skiing conditions. We arrived at the lodge at 8:30 a.m. to find NO CROWDS! We parked up front, went straight to the ticket window to get our lift tickets, then straight up the mountain without waiting in line. It was amazing! Where are the people?
I skied on Saturday, snowshoed on Sunday, and cross country skied on Monday. So much fun! But the rest of our group skied on Monday on an EMPTY mountain in perfect skiing conditions.
While the lift tickets are very expensive, our trip was budget…$245 per couple for four nights lodging and all meals everyday. (THANK YOU FOR THE MEALS, COSTCO!) We rented a five bedroom house and made all of our meals. A really affordable ski trip!

2009-02-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

I just finished an article about a photo tour of Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona. What a fabulous experience that was, and I got some great shots. Pictures of slot canyons have always intrigued me, and seeing one was even better than I imagined.
While we were there I could hear some quiet flute music in the background. “Chief” Ray Tsosie was playing the flute for his own tour, and we were lucky enough to be there while he played. I wandered through the canyon in search of the beautiful music, eventually coming upon a lone Navajo man sitting on a rock playing quietly. It wasn’t until later that I learned he does that regularly.
Photo tours with Antelope Canyon Tours are $5o. Regular tours are $32.

2009-02-18T11:00:00.000-08:00

This is the entryway. These are going to be the final shots of the house. I must get back to the business of travel writing!

Livingroom

Kitchen...obviously!

Dining room

And the new front yard. It's been a long but fun seven months. The house is ready to accept guests! And we are too!

2008-12-29T17:15:00.000-08:00

So these rooms are almost finished. Finished enough that we can enjoy them. The top two are our master bedroom suite. We didn't really do much there, just a new coat of paint, new carpet, and some new furniture. The bottom is my office, which I love! I've never had my own office before (except at work, and that doesn't count). Tomorrow they are going to sand the new hardwood floors, so I hope within a few weeks I'll have a kitchen!

2008-12-29T17:07:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been whining a little about not having a kitchen...since JUNE! But hey! Look what I DO have. We got through the holidays without any decorations, and I lived through it just fine. Thanks to Tawny we were still able to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas at her house. I wonder if this will be the new trend???

2008-12-20T20:18:00.000-08:00

How can a house look so finished on the outside, and so unfinished in the middle?
I'm happy to report that we're still enjoying the process. We've even learned to host a few parties "campstyle."

I would post a new picture, but it still looks the same. Maybe I should get back to business and return to travel posting.

In case anyone is interested, I'm doing lots of writing for a couple of websites. Check them out:
http://lodging.uptake.com/blog/author/betsyh
http://www.suite101.com/writer_articles.cfm/betsyhusband

Once the house is finished I intend to get very serious about writing. But for now, I'm writing four short stories a week for a little fun money.

I'm loving having my own office upstairs. Very quiet and secluded (when the workers aren't here).

Pictures will follow soon. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of you.

2008-12-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

Getting closer, but still not ready to cook! This is our dining room. We moved out of our bedroom suite into the upstairs guest room and office. The upstairs is nearing completion and our bedroom should be ready this weekend. The fireplace in our bedroom is getting gas plumbed to it so we can have a fire with the flip of a switch, and no dirty wood. That will be great! It's being painted now, and the new carpet gets laid on Thursday and Friday. Can't wait!!!

2008-11-23T20:24:00.000-08:00

Okay, so we're not having Thanksgiving dinner here. In fact, I don't even think we'll have Christmas dinner here. Thank goodness Tawny and Travis live nearby. Tawny is hosting Thanksgiving so we went shopping today and even started our preliminary cooking. There's something about TRADITION that is SO SPECIAL!

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our friends and family. It's my favorite holiday. Friends, family, food...and no expections other than that!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

I've finally got a landscaped front yard. The trailer has been our saving grace. We've been able to use the kitchen for cooking, and our fridge is in the garage.

I love our new kitchen. It's going to be so nice to have easy access to a covered deck for barbecuing right off the kitchen. And I'm really happy with the paint color. I usually tend to like subtle colors, but a splash here and there is fun.

2008-11-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

The house is finally being painted, inside and out. Still no kitchen, obviously. That will go in last.

We just got back from a week in Phoenix seeing family. It was a surprise birthday party for my brother-in-law, and everyone was there. What a treat! Tawny and Travis even flew down for a few days.

2008-11-07T21:11:00.000-08:00

The landscaping is going in. We're finally going to have a "formal" entryway. But the most exciting part is that I will be able to walk in my front yard without getting muddy when it rains! We're even going to have the driveway paved.

Some days we've got 10 trucks on the front lawn. It doesn't look much like a lawn anymore.

2008-11-07T21:01:00.000-08:00

Well...here's our kitchen. It's now November, and we have been without a kitchen since the first of June. I wonder what it's going to be like to have a regular house again?

Thank goodness for our trailer! And the refrigerator in the garage. With those we can at least have meals. Although we certainly can't do much entertaining.

My parents are coming up for Thanksgiving, so I'm putting them up at the Holiday Inn Express by the airport. Oh well...things could be MUCH worse!

2008-10-26T22:19:00.000-07:00

The Pathway of Lovers

Italian is known as a language of romance. Italians know this as a fact. They radiate sexuality.
Walk along any city street in Italy and you will see lovers at every stage of life: young lovers, flirtatiously laughing and kissing and chasing; adult lovers, languishing over bottles of wine while looking deep into each other’s eyes; and old lovers, sitting quietly on a terrace holding hands. In Italy showing affection is not just accepted, it’s a part of life.
But there’s one place in Italy that exudes romance more than any. Positano, on the Amalfi Coast, is the most romantic place I’ve ever been. It’s where I learned how to fall in love all over again.
After years of marriage, of raising children, managing careers, and building lives as a family, I have to say that romance began to take a back seat. Life was good, but not as exciting as it once had been—until the kids were gone, and we went to Italy.
Is it possible to fall in love with the same person over and over again?
I believe that it is, if you can put yourself in the right situation.
You would think that, after years of marriage, love would be established and set, hard as concrete, resistant to fractures. But life is more complex than concrete.
On this trip to Italy I remembered exactly what was important. It wasn’t what car I was driving, or the clothes I wore. It wasn’t the schools my children were going to, or the success of our careers. What mattered most in my life was the way my husband looked at me, the sweet words that he quietly whispered in my ear, for me alone, private innuendos that made my heart do butterflies.
Positano sits on a hill over-looking the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. I had booked a bed and breakfast through Karen Brown, not knowing the affect that this romantic hotel would have on my relationship with my husband. But we walked into a room that opened onto a large balcony looking over houses spilling down the hill to the deep blue Mediterranean Sea, and even while our host was showing us our room, my husband was standing behind me, kissing my neck as we marveled at the view.
This was my American husband, whose proletarian upbringing prohibited any display of public affection. But the romance of Italy was seeping into his blood, and when I turned to look at him he was beyond any public embarrassment. His eyes, and heart, were for me alone.
During the week we spent in Positano we fell in love all over again. Long mornings were spent in bed waiting for breakfast to be delivered. Alberto, our host, made it clear that our initial request for breakfast at 7:30 a.m. was uncivilized. We would have to wait until 9 a.m. But by the end of the week, 9 a.m. was even too early. Our days were spent strolling the streets, hand in hand, with an occasional kiss and knowing smile. Evenings we’d sit down by the water, watching the moon rise over the sea.
There was a bench by the shore where we would sit, snuggling closely as we waited for the moon’s reflection to lead directly to us—a brilliant beam of light reflecting off a calm sea. My husband called it the Pathway of Lovers, as it turned out to be.

Photo thanks to Allerina and Glen MacLarty on Flickr

2008-10-20T20:35:00.000-07:00

This is our front door!

So, we're getting closer. My parents are coming from Arizona for Thanksgiving, and we were hoping to be able to have dinner here, but I think NOT! It's OK... I'll check them into the Holiday Inn Express and it will probably be easier on all of us. Except Tawny and Travis... I guess we'll be at one of their houses for Thanksgiving.

2008-10-20T20:31:00.000-07:00

2008-10-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

So... this is my kitchen! Well, I haven't had a kitchen since the first of June, and it looks like it will still be awhile. But I'm happy, and we're enjoying the process.

More pictures to follow...

2008-10-13T16:41:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah! It was awesome!!! Floating around the bay on a 41 foot sailboat, drinking wine, eating tuna tartare. Julie, George's daughter, hooked us up with one of her friends. Check it out!

2008-10-10T08:49:00.000-07:00

Hello from San Francisco, where the Blue Angels are doing practice flights for their Fleet Week performances. It's so exciting!

Yesterday we did a tea tasting with Uncle Gee...I finally have a Chinese uncle. Everyone needs one! He really is an amazing man. More about him later. In fact, I intend to do a full article on him soon.

I did publish an article on a cool hike in Yosemite. It can be found at: http://backpacking-trips.suite101.com/article.cfm/yosemites_panorama_trail

2008-10-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a crew of 12-13 roofers here...good thing! It poured last night. I woke up in the middle of the night and felt so cozy and dry!

2008-09-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to jump on the internet sonic express by writing blogs for websites. At this point I'm just getting started, and had my first new blog published today about a Sonoma County Wine Tour at Ferrari-Carano Winery. Check it out at: http://us-wine.suite101.com/article.cfm/sonoma_county_wine_tour.

I'm also going to be doing travel writing for UpTake.com. This is a totally new venue for me--a different style of writing and a new platform that's a steep learning curve. Wish me luck, and please follow my stories.

2008-09-29T20:22:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a week in Yosemite. Lots of great hiking and biking, and ended with an outrageous meal at the Ahwahnee Hotel. What a resource we have with our National Park system.

2008-09-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's been awhile. Yeah, almost a year. I had a panic attack (not really) when I saw that most of my articles were not coming through because of a format change at two of my publishing sites. Well, the Eureka Reporter has come through, and while the pictures are gone, the text remains--so that's good enough. Unfortunately, the Skywest site seems to have "lost" my Eureka article.

So, I'll start again. Nice to be back!

2007-11-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

The Humboldt Beacon article on Leaf-Peeping in Northern California can be seen at: http://www.humboldtbeacon.com/local/ci_7331398

2007-10-29T12:00:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on Gregg Gold can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=29931

2007-10-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

The Skywest article on the South Central Coast, a Pacific Paradise, can be found at:http://www.skywestmagazine.com/CURRENT/pacificParadise07.htm

2007-09-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

Here is an article written for the September, 2007 issue of Tasmania 40 South.

2007-07-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on flying can be seen at:http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=26620

2007-07-13T11:46:00.001-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on Australians enjoying the North Coast can be see at:http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=26118

2007-06-16T04:44:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on the U.S. flag can be seen at:http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=25091

2007-05-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article about the Phoenix Car Rental Center can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=23606

2007-04-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on Australia's Outback can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=22463

2007-03-30T00:52:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on the Margaret River Wine Region can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=22186

2007-03-23T19:06:00.000-07:00

The story about dolphins in Bunbury, WA from the Eureka Reporter can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=21922

2007-03-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story about Freycinet and Port Arthur, Tasmania can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=21655

2007-03-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter story on the West Coast of Tasmania can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=21384

2007-03-09T14:48:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter story on the West Coast of Tasmania can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=21384

2007-03-09T14:45:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter story on Tasmania can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=21384

2007-03-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

The article on Troubles with Travel in Tasmania can been seen at:http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=21107

2007-02-23T15:40:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter story about the Blue Mountains, Australia can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=20834

2007-02-16T14:31:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter story on Sydney, Australia can be seen at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=20564

2007-01-05T17:23:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter story on the Mojave Desert can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=19121

2006-12-15T09:17:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas Hiking can be seen at:http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=18484

2006-10-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story on Extreme Skiing in the Andes can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=16373

2006-07-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

The story on The Way We Play can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=12788

2006-06-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story about 4th of July in Weaverville can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=12373

2006-06-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story about Death Valley can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=12212

2006-06-03T16:21:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story about the Nevada side of Tahoe can be seen at:http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=11752

2006-05-30T15:51:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story about RVs...Never Say Never can be found at: http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=11526

2006-05-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter story about studying abroad can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/Features.aspx

2006-04-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

The Eureka Reporter article on Bend, Oregon can be seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=10391

2006-04-14T09:24:00.000-07:00

Eureka Reporter story on San Francisco SoMa can be found at:

http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=10130

2006-04-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

Eureka Reporter story on Arcata Bottoms seen at:

http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=8548

2006-04-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

Eureka Reporter story on Gold Beach, Oregon seen at:

http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=9103

2006-04-05T18:22:00.000-07:00

Story in Eureka Reporter on Belize seen at:
http://www.eurekareporter.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?ArticleID=9643

2006-04-05T18:14:00.000-07:00

Skywest Magazine story on Eureka seen at:
http://www.skywestmagazine.com/Features/MarApr06/eureka.htm

2006-03-18T18:23:00.000-08:00

Taking a closer look at Redwood National Park
by Betsy Husband, 3/17/2006

Part of an elite group of 20 properties within the United States and 812 properties worldwide, Redwood National Park is a World Heritage Site, putting it on par with Yellowstone, Yosemite, Carlsbad Caverns, and the Grand Canyon. And because it is part of the California Coastal Range it has also been designated an International Biosphere Reserve, in good company with Denali, the Everglades, the Virgin Islands and Olympic National Park. People travel thousands of miles to enjoy its beauty and diversity. A 1993 visitor use survey showed that 15 percent of the visitors came from foreign countries. And it’s right here in our back yard.Lyons Ranch is located within the park. About a mile north of Orick a sign to Tall Trees Grove will direct you east onto Bald Hills Road. The road is well-maintained and paved for the first 10 miles, but with a 17 percent grade trailers and motor homes are not advised. The Lyons Ranch trailhead is 17 miles up the road. Remember to bring water and a snack.A moderate-to-strenuous round trip 4.65 mile hike meanders along gentle slopes in the quiet solitude of open prairies and oak woodlands. The trail leads you past the Long Ridge sheep shed, which had been used for feeding sheep in the winter and winds up at the homestead of Jonathon and Amelia Lyons who settled there in the 1860s. The old barn and bunkhouse create a picturesque landscape and stir fantasies of living there 140 years ago. Wander around to find rusty farm tools and the ancient-looking tricycle hanging in the barn. Picnic tables, both inside and out, offer shelter from the elements if needed.Throughout our hike we saw very little wildlife until the end. The vision of a mother bear leading her cub through a golden meadow was worth the wait. Once the mother became aware of our presence, she started heading toward shelter, calling to her cub to follow. Typical of any youngster, the cub had its own agenda. We listened to the bears growling in communication and watched the mother go back and forth, trying to get her cub to go with her. Eventually the cub decided to go, giving them a sense of security and giving us clear passage to our car.The meadows on Bald Hill have a reputation for becoming a carpet of wildflowers in the spring, with the lupine turning the hillsides a luscious purple. This is not only appealing to humans, but the elk love it as well. As we drove a bit farther along the road we saw over a hundred elk basking in the sun.Thoughts of Redwood National Park usually conjure up visions of tall trees, ferns and rhododendrons. It’s that, and much more.For more information:Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center(707) 464-6101, ext. 5265Along U.S. Highway 101 just south of OrickRedwood National Parkwww.redwood.national-park.comPets are not allowed on any Redwood National Park trails.

Copyright (C) 2005, The Eureka Reporter. All rights reserved

2006-02-26T20:29:00.001-08:00

The Charm of Italy: "The Charm of Italy
By Betsy Husband

Was it seven weeks in Italy, or two years? It's hard to tell. We started planning our trip almost two years before going. At first it was just casual conversation, then actually talking about when and where. Before long I was enrolled in Italian classes and actively searching the Internet for villas in Tuscany, for accommodations in other areas we wanted to visit, and for the best airfare. We also spent time talking to people about their experiences and soliciting suggestions from them. All the while, I was experiencing Italy from afar, living my travels far before getting there.

We were lucky enough to have a 10-day trip to Italy in February before our big summer trip. My husband had the opportunity to attend a meeting in Rome for five days, and we spent another five days just playing. Rome in February is spectacular. The days were crisp and clear, and there were plenty of people and activities. I spent five days exploring on my own during the day, and finding special restaurants that I had read about with my husband at night. By the time his meeting was over, I felt comfortable with the city and the transit systems, and I was able to play tour guide for my husband. Even though the weather was chilly, everyone bundled up with coats and scarves and spent a great deal of time outside; walking, sitting at sidewalk cafes, and wandering through the piazzas and along the Tiber River.

One day we figured we walked about 15 miles, beginning in the morning and not returning to the hotel until 2 a.m. Rome is so full of history that it seemed at every corner we would come across a historical point of interest. Most memorable was rounding a corner and just happening onto Trevi Fountain. It took my breath away. I was so excited!

After our spontaneous trip to Rome our planning int"

2006-02-26T20:22:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter - Article: "

Enjoying summer in the dead of winter
by Betsy Husband, 1/27/2006

Known for being affluent and conservative, San Diego shows its best side in the winter. While Humboldt County residents dodge raindrops and mud puddles, San Diegans bask in winter warmth as daytime temperatures average 70-80 degrees.

The grass is greener and water cheaper in Humboldt County. But for glorious golden rays and an economical weekend escape, grab a Friday night flight out of Arcata and spend the weekend in San Diego. United Airlines and Horizon Airlines can both get you back by Sunday night.

Mass transit isn�t San Diego�s strong point, but the freeway system is excellent. Take a map of the city, rent a car at the airport and start your adventure downtown.

Just a 10-minute drive from the airport, the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter is centrally located and has convenient parking. Get a good night�s sleep and bid farewell to the fancy clothes. This is an active itinerary that requires comfortable clothes and shoes for walking, not show.

Situated on Mission Bay, eight miles from downtown, SeaWorld is one of San Diego�s many tourist attractions and a good choice for a quick trip. It�s large enough to fill a day with entertainment, but small enough to feel like you�ve covered it all by day�s end.

There are two options for buying tickets � a quick ticket kiosk or a ticket office, which often has lines. If you�re a member of AAA or AARP, there�s an unadvertised price break. Stand in line, show your card and receive $10 off per ticket.

Show times are listed in the program. Take a few minutes to organize the day a"

2006-02-26T20:20:00.000-08:00

The Eureka Reporter - Article: "Tuck and roll: Surfing's not for wimps
by Betsy Husband, 2/24/2006

�What most of the world doesn�t know is that we have world-class surf on the North Coast.�
Tyler Brown

Tyler Brown thrives on boards. When the Humboldt State University journalism senior is not surfing, you�ll find him snowboarding or skateboarding � or, at the very least, with skateboard in hand.

Local interest in surfing has blossomed. Thirty years ago, seeing a surfer in the water was a vision limited to Southern California and Hawaii. Occasionally, a few brave souls would ride the local break. Now, on just about any trip to the beach, you�ll see not just one or two, but many surfers � some with their dogs patiently waiting at the shoreline.

When asked to compare surfing on Northern and Southern California beaches, Brown said, �If you can deal with the cold water, the surfing up here is much better. It might not be quite as consistent, but I guarantee you�ll never have a break all to yourself when it�s head high and glassy in Southern California.�

Brown said that when people think of Northern California surf they think of Santa Cruz. He pointed out that Humboldt County surfing has had a lack of exposure.

Jess Barreilles, who was born and raised in Humboldt County and has owned the Greenhouse Board Shop in Arcata since 2003, agrees that surfing has gained popularity.

�I think there are two reasons,� he said. �The equipment is much better these days, so you don�t get as cold. Also, since more people have been getting out and exploring, they�re finding a lot of areas with good quality surf.�

Barreilles is a member of Humboldt Surfriders, a nonprofit environmental organization that is part of a global network. A"

2006-02-26T20:09:00.000-08:00

A World Heritage Site in Our Own Backyard

Part of an elite group of 20 properties within the United States and 812 properties worldwide, Redwood National Park is a World Heritage Site, putting it on par with Yellowstone, Yosemite, Carlsbad Caverns, and the Grand Canyon. And because it is part of the California Coastal Range it has also been designated an International Biosphere Reserve, in good company with Denali, the Everglades, the Virgin Islands and Olympic National Park. People travel thousands of miles to enjoy its beauty and diversity. A 1993 visitor use survey showed that 15 percent of the visitors came from foreign countries. And it’s right here in our backyard.
Lyons Ranch is located within the park. About a mile north of Orick a sign to Tall Trees Grove will direct you east onto Bald Hills Road. The road is well maintained and paved for the first 10 miles, but with a 17 percent grade trailers and motorhomes are not advised. The Lyons Ranch trailhead is 17 miles up the road. Remember to bring water and a snack.
A moderate to strenuous roundtrip 4.65 mile hike meanders along gentle slopes in the quiet solitude of open prairies and oak woodlands. The trail leads you past the Long Ridge sheep shed which had been used for feeding sheep in the winter and winds up at the homestead of Jonathon and Amelia Lyons who settled there in the 1860s. The old barn and bunkhouse create a picturesque landscape and stir fantasies of living there 140 years ago. Wander around to find rusty farm tools and the ancient-looking tricycle hanging in the barn. Picnic tables, both inside and out, offer shelter from the elements if needed.
Throughout our hike we saw very little wildlife until the end. The vision of a mother bear leading her cub through a golden meadow was worth the wait. Once the mother became aware of our presence, she started heading toward shelter, calling to her cub to follow. Typical of any youngster, the cub had its own agenda. We listened to the bears growling in communication and watched the mother go back and forth, trying to get her cub to go with her. Eventually the cub decided to go, giving them a sense of security and giving us clear passage to our car.
The meadows on Bald Hill have a reputation for becoming a carpet of wildflowers in the spring, with the lupine turning the hillsides a luscious purple. This is not only appealing to humans, but the elk love it as well, and as we drove a bit farther along the road we saw over a hundred elk basking in the sun. When one thinks of Redwood National Park it usually conjures up visions of tall trees, ferns and rhododendrons. It’s that, and much more.
For more information:
Thomas H Kuchel Visitor Center
(707) 464-6101 extension 5265
Along US Highway 101 just south of Orick

Redwood National Park
http://www.redwood.national-park.com/

Pets are not allowed on any Redwood National Park trails.