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

Category: Reviews (Page 1 of 12)

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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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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The Riverside Market of Ljubljana

Whether in the States or overseas, one of my favorite thing in the world is going to markets!  It doesn’t matter what kind of market, Christmas, food, flower, or arts and crafts markets, count me in.  I love viewing beautiful art made by local craftsmen, tasting food from chefs and buying fresh produce from local farmers.  I just love it!  This is one of the best ways to experience a local culture, which is why we loved the Riverside Market!

Riverside Market - Fresh Produce at the Riverside Market

Fresh Produce at the Riverside Market

David and I knew there was an extensive produce/flower market in Ljubljana from a Rick Steves show.  However, when our taxi driver took us from the bus station to our beautiful hotel, he told us about a food festival on Fridays called Open Kitchen.  Restaurants from all over town set up booths in the market area.  Thankfully, our stay included a Friday, so I could not imagine a better scenario!

Riverside Market - Crowds Enjoying the Friday Food Festival in Ljubljana's Riverside Market

Crowds Enjoying Open Kitchen in Ljubljana

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View of the City from Ljubljana Castle

In the center of Ljubljana, on a hill which serves as its pedestal, stands Ljubljana Castle. This symbol of the city can be seen from almost everywhere in the Old and New Towns.

Ljubljana Castle - Unobstructed View of Ljubljana Castle from the Skyscraper

Unobstructed View of Ljubljana Castle from the Skyscraper

In many ways across the city, Ljubljana’s touristic appeal is growing. The funicular to Ljubljana Castle is a perfect example of this progress. Built in 2006, the funicular climbs Castle Hill within 60 seconds, saving you a steep climb on one of two paths to the top. While I normally opt for the adventure-filled route, Rebekah and I chose the funicular to save some energy for seeing the sights in the castle complex (Rebekah was 6 months pregnant after all). This is a perfect example of how modern improvements are opening up the complex to more visitors, from elderly tourists to locals dressed for fine dining at the castle’s restaurants.

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