Category Page travel

InkwellIllusion

hiking with my autistic teen in switzerland

We dragged our 13-year-old son out to Sörenberg in Switzerland for a hike, and let me tell you, the complaints started before we even left the hotel. He’s autistic, so new places and routines can be a real struggle for him. I was honestly bracing myself for a full day of grumbling and maybe even a meltdown or two. But then, halfway up the trail, I turned around and saw him absolutely beaming at the view—like he’d just discovered a secret world up in those mountains. Here’s the thing: every time we plan something outdoorsy, he acts like it’s the end of the world, but then he ends up loving it. I can’t figure out if he really hates the idea or just likes to put up a fight. Anyone else’s kid do this? I’m torn between feeling guilty for pushing him and being glad we didn’t give in to the complaints. Sometimes I wonder if I’m being stubborn or if he actually needs that extra nudge to enjoy something new. The Swiss scenery is stunning, but parenting on these trails is a whole different adventure. #parentingteens #autismjourney #familytravel #Travel

hiking with my autistic teen in switzerland
EchoElement

Edinburgh Broke My City Expectations

I thought I knew what European cities looked like. Postcards. Cobblestones. The usual. Then I walked up the Royal Mile at 6 AM, mist rolling off the castle like something out of a dream I'd forgotten. No crowds. Just me and a city that felt alive in a way London never did. The closes—those narrow medieval alleys—weren't charming. They were claustrophobic and perfect. Each one hiding pubs that have been serving whisky since before my country existed. I sat in Princes Street Gardens watching commuters rush past, castle overhead, and realized I'd been visiting cities wrong. Edinburgh doesn't perform for you. It just exists, confidently ancient, while you figure out if you belong. Some places change you without trying. Edinburgh is shameless about it. #Travel #EdinburghReality #CityThatChangedMe

Edinburgh Broke My City Expectations
Steven Arnold

A nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement park

Since its opening in 1907 as the “Coney Island of the West,” the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been the backdrop for scores of noteworthy cultural events through the years, from Duke Kahanamoku’s historic 1913 surfing exhibit to the Miss California pageant to major motion pictures, including Lost Boys and the Dirty Harry vehicle Sudden Impact. The Beach Boardwalk is an iconic part of the City of Santa Cruz. Ever since it opened in 1907, the Boardwalk has been a perfect spot for family trips to the beach. The Boardwalk offers visitors the pleasure of relaxing on a beach as well as roller coasters and rides for the more fearless people. Tourists first started coming to Santa Cruz in 1865, because "John Leibrandt built a public bathhouse near the mouth of the San Lorenzo River". By the end of the 19th century plans were being laid for a casino and boardwalk to be built similar to Coney Island. The new Cocoanut Grove ballroom, an indoor swimming pool, a pleasure pier, and a boardwalk, opened in June of 1907. The Giant Dipper roller coaster opened in 1924 and continues to thrill riders today. The Giant Dipper, a 70-foot-tall red and white roller coaster, is an iconic ride at the Boardwalk. The Giant Dipper is the oldest roller coaster in California. Ever since it was built over 60 million have experienced the Giant Dipper and to this day it remains a key attraction at the Boardwalk.

A nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement parkA nostalgic look back at the West Coast’s oldest amusement park
HazelHarmony

I Moved to Paradise. My Wallet Didn't Survive.

If you think moving to the US Virgin Islands is a dream, let me tell you what it cost me. I spent weeks obsessing over forums, thinking I could outsmart the island price hikes. I budgeted for $6 eggs and $9 milk, but I didn’t budget for the feeling of watching my savings bleed out over shipping, deposits, and a car that barely made it up the hill to my new place. I thought I could DIY my way through—pack my own container, find a cheap rental, maybe even build something. The reality? I paid for a shipping container that sat in the sun for days because I didn’t bribe the right guy. My first grocery run was a gut punch. I tried to laugh it off, but the numbers didn’t lie. Every small decision felt like a mistake I couldn’t undo. I wanted adventure. I got a spreadsheet full of regrets. If you’re reading this at 2AM, wondering if you should make the leap—double your budget, then double it again. The view is beautiful, but the price tag is brutal. #HomeBudgetFail #DIYDisaster #BrokeButCreative #Home

I Moved to Paradise. My Wallet Didn't Survive.
Christopher Gilbert

LA Weekend Ideas | Salvation Mountain, CA

Salvation Mountain is one of those places you really have to want to go to because there's not much else to see or do where it's located. This is marked as a religious destination as you'll notice the scriptures on the installation but you don't necessarily have to be religious to enjoy the place. It was nice and colorful, the attendant was also very friendly (entry is free but donations encouraged - there's a dropbox), and looks really awesome in the photos - Salvation Mountain, Beal Rd, Calipatria, CA - 3hr drive from Los Angeles, 1.5hr drive from Palm Springs - FREE to enter, donations accepted - Dogs allowed - Single-handedly built by large-scale installation artist Leonard Knight who passed away in 2014. Today it's maintained by the Salvation Mountain, Inc. - A lot of the areas (especially ones that people can walk around, over, and under) were not accessible due to maintenance that needed to be done. Don't expect to be able to take photos at the spots you see on Instagram because closures are quite normal due to the structural state of the place. - There is a porta-potty if you really need to go - This installation is located in Slab City where you'll find a lot of quirky buildings on the same street - but we didn't linger and decided to drive back. - You will need your own car and make sure to have a full tank from Indio, CA because there won't be any gas stations from there!

LA Weekend Ideas | Salvation Mountain, CALA Weekend Ideas | Salvation Mountain, CA
Robin Nichols

🌊 Dive into an Underwater Wonderland! 🐠

Looking for a unique and engaging experience? Look no further than this conveniently located aquarium in Long Beach, CA! While it may not be the largest, it definitely packs a punch with its fascinating exhibits and hands-on experiences. Here's why it's a must-visit: 💫 Up close and personal: Touch and interact with starfish, sea cucumbers, and even rare devil fish. Perfect for both kids and sea life enthusiasts! 🐦🌿 Birds galore: Don't miss the bird exhibit, where friendly creatures fearlessly approach and let you feed them. A delightful experience for bird lovers! 🚶 Leisurely exploration: Avoid the crowds and take your time to appreciate all the wonders around you. It's a comfortable and relaxing visit. 🏞️ Practical and clean: Enjoy easy parking and a hassle-free process for reduced rates. The aquarium is well-maintained and kept clean. 🔍 Interactive fun: Engage in a game where you search for sea inhabitants and collect stamps. Kids receive a prize at the exit - the perfect end to the adventure! 💭 A few things to note: It can get busy at times, so be prepared for crowds. Some tanks may have slightly dirty water on certain days. However, the overall experience remains impressive. 🌊 Immerse yourself in the wonders of aquatic life at this exceptional aquarium. Whether you're a family looking for a fun outing or a sea creature enthusiast, this place won't disappoint. Highly recommended! 💙🐠 Recommended sightseeing time:1-2 hour Address:100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States #underwaterwonderland #familyouting #aquaticlife #rareexhibits #engagingexperience #interactivefun #exploremore

🌊 Dive into an Underwater Wonderland! 🐠🌊 Dive into an Underwater Wonderland! 🐠🌊 Dive into an Underwater Wonderland! 🐠🌊 Dive into an Underwater Wonderland! 🐠
FrostedFable

Trees That Made Me Feel Small

Standing next to a 1,000-year-old Douglas fir in Olympic National Forest, I finally understood the word "insignificant." Not in a bad way. In a relieving way. These trees are older than entire civilizations. They've survived fires, storms, and centuries of human drama while I stress about Wi-Fi passwords and flight delays. The Hoh Rainforest doesn't care about your Instagram feed. The moss-draped giants don't pose for selfies. They just exist, massive and unbothered, making you realize how small your problems actually are. I spent twenty minutes staring up at one tree, neck craned back until it hurt. My phone stayed in my pocket. Some things are too big to capture anyway. Sometimes you need something ancient to remind you what actually matters. 🌲 #PerspectiveCheck #OldGrowthWisdom #NatureHumbles #Travel

Trees That Made Me Feel Small
Christian Russo

I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆

The Sky City: Fanjing Mountain, A Fairyland on Earth in Tongren, Guizhou Located in Tongren, Guizhou, Fanjing Mountain is a natural wonder that has been standing tall for 65 million years. Its iconic golden peak stands proudly on a narrow ridge, with a unique split that gives it the appearance of a "Sky City" from any angle. To climb Fanjing Mountain, visitors first need to take a 30-minute sightseeing bus ride to the cable car station, followed by a 15-minute cable car ride to the halfway point of the mountain. From there, it takes a walk of about 20 minutes to reach the breathtaking Red Cloud Golden Summit. The journey can be challenging, so it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes suitable for climbing. In addition to the Red Cloud Golden Summit, there are other attractions such as Mushroom Stone and Old Golden Summit that also require hiking. Be prepared for a mentally and physically demanding experience.

I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆I Found the "Sky City" on Earth! ✨🌆