Hike into the East End’s classic cathedral valley to see Hawaii back in time. It is believed ancient Polynesians settled in lush Halawa Valley as early as 650 AD. With many hidden heiau (places of worship) it's easy to see why this area, half a mile wide and three to four miles deep, and blessed Hike into the East End’s classic cathedral valley to see Hawaii back in time. It is believed ancient Polynesians settled in lush Halawa Valley as early as 650 AD. With many hidden heiau (places of worship) it's easy to see why this area, half a mile wide and three to four miles deep, and blessed with beautiful vistas and towering waterfalls, is one of the island's most historic areas.… see moresee less

The sacred Halawa Valley has a gorgeous beach. However, a more intimate encounter with the area can be had with the Halawa Falls Historical Hike to the 250-foot Moaula Falls.The two-hour tour runs three times a day and, like the falls hike, can be booked through Moloka‘i Fish & Dive. Visitors get a The sacred Halawa Valley has a gorgeous beach. However, a more intimate encounter with the area can be had with the Halawa Falls Historical Hike to the 250-foot Moaula Falls.The two-hour tour runs three times a day and, like the falls hike, can be booked through Moloka‘i Fish & Dive. Visitors get a healthy dose of culture, history and perspective on the relationship between Hawaiians and the earth.… see moresee less

It's quiet as you ride on your mule along the 2.9-mile trail to Kalaupapa Peninsula. You would be speechless too riding along sheer cliffs overlooking the Pacific, descending from 1,700 feet and with Molokai’s North Shore Pali just to the east - the tallest sea cliffs in the world as recorded by theIt's quiet as you ride on your mule along the 2.9-mile trail to Kalaupapa Peninsula. You would be speechless too riding along sheer cliffs overlooking the Pacific, descending from 1,700 feet and with Molokai’s North Shore Pali just to the east - the tallest sea cliffs in the world as recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records, measuring 3,600 to 3,900 feet.… see moresee less

The park can only be accessed by helicopter, foot, or mule. As the park requires special permission for entry, a Damien Tours guide provides bus tours of the property. A bit of learned history -- Moloka‘i’s residents were removed from the island between 1865 and 1895, followed by the establishment The park can only be accessed by helicopter, foot, or mule. As the park requires special permission for entry, a Damien Tours guide provides bus tours of the property. A bit of learned history -- Moloka‘i’s residents were removed from the island between 1865 and 1895, followed by the establishment of two settlements where people suffering from Hansen’s Disease, or leprosy, were placed in forced isolation from 1866 until 1969. The tour includes St. Philomena Catholic Church, the honorary gravesite of Joseph De Veuster, known as Father Damien, a beloved Belgian priest who devoted his life to the settlement. The tour pauses in Judd Park for a picnic, above which the stunning North Shore Cliffs National Landmark, the world’s tallest sea cliffs, tower 2,000 feet above the Pacific.… see moresee less

This 2.9-mile journey descends 1,700 feet and has 26 switchbacks. Gotta admit, it was probably during this ride I learned I had a fear of heights. My mule didn't seem bothered by the sheer cliff drops. I, however, was holding on for dear life. Was told they match the mules personality with that of This 2.9-mile journey descends 1,700 feet and has 26 switchbacks. Gotta admit, it was probably during this ride I learned I had a fear of heights. My mule didn't seem bothered by the sheer cliff drops. I, however, was holding on for dear life. Was told they match the mules personality with that of the riders. My mule was a snacker. If only online dating matches were as accurate.… see moresee less

4-wheel drive about a half-hour north from Lanai City and you’ll discover Kaiolohia, also known as Shipwreck Beach. This windy, 8-mile stretch of beach has wrecked numerous ships along its shallow, rocky channel. In fact, the hull of a ghostly oil tanker from the 1940s is still beached on Kaiolohia 4-wheel drive about a half-hour north from Lanai City and you’ll discover Kaiolohia, also known as Shipwreck Beach. This windy, 8-mile stretch of beach has wrecked numerous ships along its shallow, rocky channel. In fact, the hull of a ghostly oil tanker from the 1940s is still beached on Kaiolohia Bay’s coral reef, its rusted hull giving the beach a surreal sense of wonder.… see moresee less

Over the years, numerous ships met their demise in the treacherous currents along Kaiolohia Bay including Liberty, a WWII concrete oiler that remains grounded on the reef today. Though the area is unsafe for swimming, the 8-mile beach is perfect for treasure hunting. Unearthed treasure will most Over the years, numerous ships met their demise in the treacherous currents along Kaiolohia Bay including Liberty, a WWII concrete oiler that remains grounded on the reef today. Though the area is unsafe for swimming, the 8-mile beach is perfect for treasure hunting. Unearthed treasure will most likely consist of glass fishing floats, shells and sea glass. Close-by are the ruins of an old lighthouse as well as the Kukui Point petroglyphs that date back as far as the 15th century.… see moresee less

Keahiakawelo, also known as Garden of the Gods, is an otherworldly rock garden at the end of rocky Polihua Road. Located roughly 45-minutes from Lanai City on the northwest side of the island, its mysterious lunar topography is populated with boulders and rock towers.

This stark, red moonscape of boulders and lava formations often referred to as Garden of the Gods. Hike at sunset to watch the rocks change colors with the sun.

The rustic Munro Trail begins just north of Lanai City, past the stables of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, The Lodge at Koele. Named for George Munro, the naturalist from New Zealand who arrived in 1890, this 12.8 mile, one-lane dirt road offers sweeping vistas amongst the majestic Cook pine trees The rustic Munro Trail begins just north of Lanai City, past the stables of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, The Lodge at Koele. Named for George Munro, the naturalist from New Zealand who arrived in 1890, this 12.8 mile, one-lane dirt road offers sweeping vistas amongst the majestic Cook pine trees introduced by Munro himself.… see moresee less

The 12-mile roundtrip Munro Trail takes adventurers through an ironwood forest, rainforest and alongside Ho’okio Gulch, a stronghold for Lāna‘i’s warriors during a battle in 1778 against Chief Kalaniopuu’s troops from the Island of Hawaii. Plan a stop along the trail on the island’s highest peak, The 12-mile roundtrip Munro Trail takes adventurers through an ironwood forest, rainforest and alongside Ho’okio Gulch, a stronghold for Lāna‘i’s warriors during a battle in 1778 against Chief Kalaniopuu’s troops from the Island of Hawaii. Plan a stop along the trail on the island’s highest peak, Lāna‘ihale, for panoramic views of the neighboring islands… see moresee less

#Berlin, #Germany // No visit to Berlin is complete without a stop at Brandenburger Tor.

(STMT X Germany Sourcing Trip – photo RAH)

#Berlin, #Germany // No visit to Berlin is complete without a stop at Brandenburger Tor.

(#STMT X Germany Sourcing Trip – photo #RAH)

Probably took a bazillion photos of the majestic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of victory in Berlin. To me, it was the ubiquitous "You've arrived in Berlin" moment.

Looks like 10E will get you a 90 min tour either ay 11am or 1pm (different tours) and very near public transport. You have to get prior permission for photos but might ok them for press. I noticed it had high reviews from visitors as well.

Berliner Unterwelten E.V.’s “Subways, Bunkers and the Cold War” tour showcases the city’s underground infrastructure along with its evolution and use during WWII, the Cold War and today. Quite fascinating!

When it comes to overviews of Berlin, none are quite as expansive as the Fernsehturm, or Television Tower at Alexanderplatz. Head to the viewing platform where you can look out over the city at other potential itinerary stops such Berliner Dom, Checkpoint Charlie, Charlottenburg Palace and the Sony When it comes to overviews of Berlin, none are quite as expansive as the Fernsehturm, or Television Tower at Alexanderplatz. Head to the viewing platform where you can look out over the city at other potential itinerary stops such Berliner Dom, Checkpoint Charlie, Charlottenburg Palace and the Sony Center.… see moresee less

Went there to watch cinema :-)

I've talked about how taking in Germany's architecture is an event unto itself, the Sony Center is a great example of this. There's something to dazzle the eye at every turn and great green areas to enjoy all around.

The Holocaust Memorial is located just steps beyond Brandenburg Gate. Designed by Peter Eisenman, the 2711 dark granite stelae represent the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust

Abutting the Banhof Zoo, this rambling park has lakeside pathways along with many statues and memorials to be discovered.

This Franz Schwechten-designed church was destroyed by bombs in 1943, leaving only the front tower and a memorial hall that houses artifacts from the structure’s history.

worth the time and effort

Look for a double row of square stones running throughout Berlin. These stones mark where the Berlin Wall stood until its demise in 1989. Along the path are crosses and photos memorializing those killed while trying to cross the wall.

The Reichstag. One of my favorite travel memories took place here in November, 2003. Nowadays you have to register in advance to visit this historic building. I've made my registration and even reserved a time for dinner at the top.

My admiration of Germany's architecture is due to locales like this one. There's so much to take in that goes beyond history and current usage. Proximity to other sites is also excellent.

History, history, history! Didn't mind the rainstorm whilst taking in Romberg Square's Fountain of Justice. Would like to have had access to the row of 15th and 18th century houses. Discovered some Roman bath ruins just steps off the square. Definitely explore off the beaten path.

Not sure when you are traveling, but the Dodgers are in town for a 4 game series starting on the 5th. Again, this is in walking distance from the Hilton. You can't get much more romantic than a baseball game on a cool spring evening.

Not a bad seat in the house.

The urban setting with the ocean serving as a backdrop adds an extra thrill to baseball games at Petco Park. Check in at the Omni Hotel and inquire about getting seats in their personal box.

Is it Whaley House Museum the most haunted place in the United States? I vote yes! Definitely get a guided tour to learn about the spirits joining you for a look-see in the house. The history of both the Whaley House and area is fascinating.

Yes, I'm calling this bridge an attraction. Indeed, it's an e-ticket ride with breathtaking Pacific panoramas.

Spend the night. You read that right. The park has a great camping program complete with tents, meals and behind-the-scenes looks at the park after dark.

I miss there

some of the best mexican food in the country is in san diego. a quite a bit of it is in old town. look for the mom and pop places, the little hole in the walls, those places are often the best. one place, ortegas in la jolla....a tiny little place has the best carne asada i've ever had.

So much fun to step back in history with an afternoon at Old Town San Diego. Fun shops at Bazaar Del Mundo offer knick knacks and the like. A must -- grabbing a margarita at any of the restaurants (Casa Guadalajara for one) and people watching.

Just breathtaking here. If possible, take a helicopter flight above the canyon, better yet, charter a small plane from Sedona to get an expansive overview of the area.

Pink Jeep Tours truly offer up a thrill ride. Found myself holding on tight as the one currying me climbed over all sorts of red rocks on back roads. The guide educated our group on the area and wove a great story.

With the desert being the best place to view the galaxies, Sedona is just right for an evening of stargazing. Check out which local experts lend their transportable telescopes to resorts and hotels for a real treat.

I'll admit it, our family used to go for their special cookies (which they no longer sell) and so my father could buy a new hat every year. There's nothing like traveling back in history in Colonial Williamsburg, with or without the cookies. It's living history at its best.

There's a lot to love about Richmond's urban side, including Canal Walk. Take in some history and nature all at once.

Vintage theatre with a famed organ and old movies to catch. For the betrothed -- an interesting place to exchange nuptials.

I know it doesn't sound like a tourist attraction, but the Hollywood Cemetery is just downright cool. Lots of history. Lots of "art" by way of gravestones. Check out a guided tour.

Excellent way to spend the day. Gorgeous gardens. A romantic mansion for touring. Animals just waiting to smile for the camera. Picnic territory!

This museum is a gem in the desert. Ongoing and visiting exhibitions are on tap. Check out its new annex while in town, as well.

This is a must for anyone visiting the area. Camp here if you can. Hike and picnic if that's all you have time for. It's one of those special places on the planet you'll never forget.

This is a really fun way to spend a day in the desert. One of my favorite stops was the Butterfly Garden.

I didn't love it. The bus smelled of urine. The pick-up from the hotel to the take-off point seemed longer than the tour itself. Some interesting sites on the route once we got started, though.

Find your sweet spot in Lanai without even taking a swing. On this modest island, you’ll find two golf courses of remarkable prestige. The Experience at Koele is an 18-hole championship course designed by legends Greg Norman and Ted Robinson. Situated in Lanai’s 2,000-foot highlands, Koele is Find your sweet spot in Lanai without even taking a swing. On this modest island, you’ll find two golf courses of remarkable prestige. The Experience at Koele is an 18-hole championship course designed by legends Greg Norman and Ted Robinson. Situated in Lanai’s 2,000-foot highlands, Koele is relatively short at 6,200 yards, but the course winds through hills and over tropical gulches. Here each hole is graced with incredible vistas, from mountain ravines to Pacific Ocean views of neighboring Maui and Molokai across the channel. This dramatic course, surrounded by soaring pines and eucalyptus trees, is indeed a one-of-a-kind experience.… see moresee less

Attention all engaged people -- put this on your destination wedding list. Stunning, red rock cliffs overlooking the Pacific.

In February 2002, the Lavender farm opened to visitors to enjoy the beauty and serenity that Alii created, by offering the first and only Lavender Walking Tours.

One of my favorite things to do on Maui is attend the lavender tea at AKL followed by a site tour. The views from this mountaintop attraction can't be beat. Parking next to gigantic sunflowers adds a dash of magic to a visit. Can be hard to find the turn. Don't despair; you'll find it.

Have you ever experienced the thrill of ziplining? Bonus - the views are spectacular from this perspective!

Haven't been, but heard good things. Seeing Maui from above the treetops is always a good thing.

One of the most beautiful and peaceful places I have been to. Loved it!

Moonscape meets Flinstones. Yes, this is Lanai, not outer space. Go just before sunset to watch the rocks change colors with the setting sun.

Grab lunch at the Four Seasons... worth the trip!

Anyone who knows me is aware I get motion sickness at the drop of a hat. Didn't turn green during the entire trip from Maui to Lanai. Smooth ride with dolphins chasing alongside for entertainment.

Could spend endless days watching the kite/windsurfers here. Someday, will enlist the services of HST for some lessons.