Author: gabby

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Hiking Ape Caves near Mt. Saint Helens is a unique and thrilling experience that should not be missed by any adventure seeker. Located in the heart of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, the Ape Caves are a series of underground lava tubes that were formed thousands of years ago. These caves offer a unique and adventurous hiking experience that is not found anywhere else in the state.

The Ape Caves are divided into two sections: the Upper Ape Cave and the Lower Ape Cave. The Upper Ape Cave is the shorter of the two, measuring in at just over a mile long. It is a moderate hike that takes about an hour to complete. The Lower Ape Cave is much longer, stretching for over two miles. It is a more strenuous hike that takes about three hours to complete. Both of these hikes offer unique and exciting experiences that are perfect for hikers of all skill levels.

Looking closly you’ll see what looks like two track on the floor of the cave. These are dubbed “The Railroad Tracks” and were caused when lava dripped down from the ceiling as the cave was emptying of lava.

One of the most impressive things about the Ape Caves is the underground environment. The caves are dark and damp, and hikers are required to bring their own flashlights or headlamps to navigate through the tunnels. This creates a sense of adventure and mystery as you explore the underground world.

In addition to the natural beauty of the caves, there is also a rich history to be discovered. The Ape Caves were named after a group of Boy Scouts who discovered the caves in the 1950s. They dubbed themselves the “Mount St. Helens Apes” and the name stuck. Since then, the Ape Caves have become a popular destination for hikers and adventure seekers from all over the country.

Note the cool and unusual geological feature stuck in the cave. A huge lava boulder called ‘The Meatball’ sits perched over a passageway, where it got stuck as lava flowed through the tube.

Hiking Ape Caves in Washington State is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a unique adventure, the Ape Caves have something for everyone. So grab your flashlight and head to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest for an underground adventure you won’t soon forget.

A note from the forest service:

“Help protect Ape Cave. Please do not touch cave walls or ceiling. Touching kills cave slime, a basis for the food chain of tiny creatures that live there. Help protect our bats and caves from White Nose Syndrome. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all that you bring with you.”

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The Guler Ice Caves, located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington state, are a hidden gem that many people are unaware of. Nestled in the shadow of Mt. St Helens, these ice caves are a truly unique and breathtaking experience.

The Guler Ice Caves are formed by underground water that flows through the caves, freezing in the winter months and creating stunning ice formations. The caves are best visited in the spring, when the ice is melting enough to cause icicles inside the cave.

Visitors to the Guler Ice Caves can expect to see a variety of ice formations, including icicles, stalactites, and stalagmites. The caves also feature a small seasonal waterfall that flows through the ice, creating a mesmerizing effect.

The Guler Ice Caves are a great destination for both experienced hikers and those looking for a more leisurely experience. The caves are easily accessible for all ages and fitness levels.

It is important to be prepared for the Guler Ice Caves. The caves can be very slippery and visitors should wear sturdy shoes with good traction. It is also recommended to bring warm clothing, as the temperature inside the caves is very chilly, think walking into a deep freezer. Bring a hat, 2 flashlights per person, gloves, good shoes with mini spikes. The floor of the cave is a solid sheet of ice in some places and I saw many visitors slipped during my visit.

Despite these precautions, the Guler Ice Caves are well worth the visit. The beauty of the ice formations and the serene atmosphere of the caves make for an unforgettable experience. So if you find yourself in Washington state during the winter months, be sure to check out the Guler Ice Caves – you won’t be disappointed.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Portland, Oregon is known for its vibrant food scene and variety of cuisines. From classic American to farm-to-table, there are endless options for foodies to explore. Here are just a few must try foods in Portland:

1. Voodoo Doughnuts – Known for their unique and creative doughnuts, Voodoo Doughnuts is a must-try in Portland. With flavors like Maple Bacon, Oreo, and the famous Voodoo Doll, you won’t be disappointed.
2. Portland Food Carts – Portland is known for its food cart scene, with over 600 food carts to choose from. From Korean BBQ to classic burgers, there’s something for everyone. Check out: Portland Mercado, Carts on Foster, or Cartopia
3. Craft Beer – Portland is home to over 70 breweries, making it a paradise for craft beer lovers. Some must-try breweries include Deschutes, Rogue, and Cascade Brewing Barrel House.
4. Stumptown Coffee – Portland is home to Stumptown Coffee, a world-renowned coffee roaster. From cold brew to lattes, Stumptown has a variety of coffee options to choose from.
5. Salt & Straw – This ice cream shop is a Portland favorite, with flavors like Honey Lavender and Bourbon Pecan Pie.
6. Farm-to-Table Restaurants – Portland is known for its commitment to sustainable and local food, and there are plenty of farm-to-table restaurants to choose from. Some must-try options include Urban Farmer and Higgins.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, Portland has something to offer. From doughnuts to craft beer to farm-to-table dining, there are endless options for foodies to explore.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Colorful Instagram streets around the world have become a popular tourist attraction and a must-see for photography enthusiasts. These vibrant and lively streets add a splash of color to an otherwise mundane urban landscape and have become a symbol of a city’s creativity and uniqueness.

Here are 5 of the most colorful Instagram streets from

around the world:

1 Jodhpur, India: Also known as the “Blue City,” Jodhpur is a city in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan. The city is known for its stunning blue-painted houses, which were originally painted to signify the homes of Hindu Brahmins. Today, the blue houses have become a major tourist attraction and a popular backdrop for Instagram photos.

2. Lancaster Road, London: Located in the Notting Hill neighborhood of London, Lancaster Road is a colorful street filled with pastel-colored houses. The houses, which were originally built as low-cost housing in the 19th century, have been transformed into fashionable and trendy homes. Instagrammers flock to Lancaster Road to capture the perfect shot of these charming houses.

3. The Rainbow Crosswalk in Portland, Oregon: Portland is known for its colorful and quirky streets, and Rainbow Crosswalk is no exception. It’s a beloved symbol of Portland’s creative and bohemian culture.

4. Rainbow City in Taiwan: Rainbow City is a colorful shopping district located in the city of Taichung, Taiwan. The district is home to a variety of colorful storefronts, including a rainbow-colored bridge, a rainbow-painted fire station, and a rainbow-hued tunnel. Instagrammers flock to Rainbow City to capture the perfect shot of these vibrant and playful landmarks.

5. Coleman’s Lane in Cork, Ireland: Located in the historic city of Cork, Coleman’s Lane is a colorful street lined with brightly painted houses in a rainbow of colors. The houses, which were originally built in the 18th century, have been transformed into fashionable and trendy homes. Instagrammers love Coleman’s Lane for its charming and picturesque setting, which is the perfect backdrop for Instagram photos.

Colorful Instagram streets around the world are a must-see for photography enthusiasts and tourists. These vibrant and lively streets add a splash of color to an otherwise mundane urban landscape and have become a symbol of a city’s creativity and uniqueness. Whether it’s the Blue City of Jodhpur, the pastel-colored houses of Lancaster Road, the Rainbow Road of Portland, the Rainbow City of Taiwan, or the colorful houses of Coleman’s Lane, these streets are sure to brighten up any Instagram feed.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Are you tired of being stuck in the same place, working 9-5 every day? Do you dream of traveling the world and experiencing new cultures, but don’t think you have the financial means to do so? Fear not, because it is possible to make money and travel at the same time. Here are some tips on how to achieve this dream:

1. Get a job that allows you to travel: Some jobs, such as being a flight attendant or a tour guide, involve traveling to different places. Consider looking into positions that allow you to travel as part of your job duties.
2. Freelance work: If you have a skill that can be done remotely, such as writing, graphic design, or programming, consider offering your services as a freelancer. This way, you can work from anywhere in the world and still make money. Check out: Upwork for freelance work.
3. Rent out your home: If you’re planning on being away for an extended period of time, consider renting out your home on platforms like Airbnb. This can provide a steady stream of income while you’re traveling.
4. Teach English abroad: Teaching English as a foreign language is a great way to make money and travel. Many countries offer programs for native English speakers to teach English in their schools and often provide housing and other perks as well. I got my TESOL certificate from Oxford Seminars. For Teaching abroad job leads check out: Dave’s ESL Cafe.
5. Work and travel programs: There are various programs that allow you to work abroad in exchange for a place to stay and sometimes even a stipend. These programs often involve working at hostels, restaurants, or farms in exchange for room and board.
6. Volunteer abroad: Volunteer abroad programs often provide room and board in exchange for volunteering your time and skills. This can be a great way to make a positive impact while also seeing the world. For a great book recommendation check out: 700 Places to Volunteer Before You Die: A Traveler’s Guide, this book suggested a School in Mongolia and I volunteered there to teach English for a month in 2018. It was an amazing experience!

Making money and traveling at the same time may seem daunting, but it is possible with a little bit of planning and creativity. Whether you choose to work a job that allows you to travel, freelance, or volunteer abroad, there are plenty of options available for those looking to combine their love of travel with the need to make a living. So don’t let your financial situation hold you back from experiencing all that the world has to offer. So, these are some of the ways you can make money and travel at the same time.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

If you’re looking for a unique and creative shopping experience in Portland, Oregon, look no further than the Hawthorn neighborhood. This vibrant area is known for its vintage shops, consignment stores, and quirky characters that make it a must-visit destination.

One of the highlights of the Hawthorn neighborhood is the Quarter World Arcade. This retro arcade is a throwback to the golden age of gaming, with a wide variety of classic arcade games and pinball machines. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking to relive your childhood memories, the Quarter World Arcade is a must-visit spot.

Another popular shopping destination in Hawthorn is the Crossroads Trading Consignment store. This store is filled with gently used clothing and accessories at great prices. From designer brands to one-of-a-kind pieces, you’re sure to find something special at Crossroads Trading.

If you’re in the mood for even more consignment shopping, be sure to check out the Buffalo Exchange Consignment store and the 2nd STREET Hawthorne Consignment store. Both of these stores are filled with unique and affordable clothing and accessories that are perfect for anyone looking to add a little flair to their wardrobe.

If vintage is more your style, be sure to visit the Red Light Vintage Consignment store. This store is filled with vintage clothing, accessories, and shoes from the 1950s through the 1990s. Whether you’re looking for a vintage leather jacket or a retro platform heels, you’ll find it at Red Light Vintage.

If you’re in need of a caffeine boost while shopping in Hawthorn, be sure to stop by Tov Coffee and Tea Bus. This mobile coffee shop serves up delicious coffee and tea in a cozy, red double decker bus. It’s the perfect spot to rest your feet and recharge before continuing your shopping adventure.

When it’s time for a break from shopping, be sure to check out Cubo Cuban Food. This small Cuban restaurant serves up delicious sandwiches, empanadas, and other Cuban specialties in a casual, laid-back atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back bar scene, be sure to check out the No Fun Bar. This small bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive selection of craft beer. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of shopping.

If you’re in the mood for something to eat, be sure to check out the Cartopia Food Cart Pod. This collection of food carts serves up a wide variety of cuisines, from Thai to Mexican and everything in between. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick and affordable meal while exploring the neighborhood.

For a famed dinning experience, be sure to check out Lardo. This popular sandwich shop is known for its delicious sandwiches . It’s was featured on Man vs Food when Adam tried the Porchetta Sandwich with pork loin slow roasted for three hours. Another epic bar is the Horse Brass Pub whitch served Old English pub fair and bosts title of oldest bar in town.

Located in the heart of Hawthorn, the Helium Comedy Club is a must-visit destination for fans of stand-up comedy. With a diverse lineup of comedians performing regularly, there’s always something new and hilarious to see at the club. If you’d rather laugh at home head to Movie Madness Video, part movie memorobelia museum and part DVD rental store. This place is sure to take you back to your childhood.

Hawthorn is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Portland that loved the colorful and quirky. Whether you’re looking for a night of laughter or a delicious meal, or some unique shopping experiences, this neighborhood has it all.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Northwest 23rd Street, also known as Nob Hill, is a bustling and trendy neighborhood in Portland, Oregon. It is filled with a variety of local and chain stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Here are just a few of the highlights you can find on this street:

Salt and Straw Ice Cream is a must-try for any ice cream lover. This Portland-based chain has a location on 23rd Street and serves up unique and creative flavors made with locally-sourced ingredients. Some popular flavors include honey lavender, almond brittle with salted ganache, and arbequina olive oil.

Crossroads Trading is a great spot for fashion-conscious shoppers. This store specializes in buying and selling gently-used clothing and accessories. You can find a wide range of brands and styles, including designer pieces, at discounted prices.

Zupans Market is a grocery store that has been a staple in Portland for over 40 years. In addition to offering a wide selection of produce, meats, and other grocery items, Zupans also has a bakery, deli, and coffee bar.

If you’re looking for a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat, McMenamins Rams Head is a popular choice. This pub and restaurant is located in a historic building and serves up pub fare, locally-brewed beer, and handcrafted cocktails.

Chapman Swift watch is a must-see for bird enthusiasts. It occurs at the Chapman Elementary School during the month of September. Visitors will see up to 16,000 birds returning to their chimney roost for the night, they have been roosting here since the 1980s. It is one of the largest known roosting sites for swifts and thousands of people gather every year to watch them do their thing. Arrive one hour before sunset any night during the September.

Urban Outfitters and Pottery Barn, are both popular chain stores located on 23rd Street. Urban Outfitters is known for its trendy clothing and home decor, Pottery Barn offers stylish furniture and home accessories.

Papa Haydens specializes in upscale dining. Their Fancy Parisian Vibes are perfect for enjoying one of their stunning and delicious desserts.

Lush Cosmetics is a popular spot for natural and organic beauty products. This store offers a wide range of skincare, haircare, and makeup products made with ethical and sustainable ingredients.

Barista is a local coffee chain with a location on 23rd Street. They serve up coffee, espresso drinks, and pastries made with locally-roasted beans.

Escape from New York Pizza is a popular spot for pizza lovers. This restaurant serves up New York-style slices and whole pies, as well as sandwiches, salads, and other casual fare. Their price per slice paired with a cheap tall boy of Ranier makes for the best cheap grub anywhere in the city.

Northwest 23rd Street has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a unique ice cream flavor, a stylish outfit, or a slice of pizza, you’ll find it on this vibrant and diverse street.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Alberta Street is a vibrant and lively street located in the heart of Portland, Oregon. This bustling street is home to a wide variety of businesses, including locally-owned boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops.

One of the standout features of Alberta Street is its vibrant arts scene. The street is home to numerous galleries, showcasing the work of local artists. Many of these galleries host regular exhibitions and events, giving visitors the opportunity to interact with the art community.

In addition to its art scene, Alberta Street is also well-known for its food and drink options. There are numerous restaurants and coffee shops along the street, offering everything from farm-to-table dining to craft beers and cocktails. Many of these establishments source their ingredients locally, giving visitors the chance to try some of the best food and drink that Portland has to offer. Checkout the dinner food at the Radio Room and the wonderful cocktails at The Bye And Bye. If you have a sweet tooth head to the qurky Salt & Straw for oddball ice crem flavors.

One of the most popular events on Alberta Street is the Last Thursday Art Walk. This monthly event sees the street come alive with live music, food carts, and street vendors. It’s a great opportunity for visitors to experience the local arts scene and meet some of the talented artists and musicians that call Portland home.

Aside from its arts and food scenes, Alberta Street is also home to a number of unique boutiques and stores. From vintage clothing and antiques to handmade crafts and gifts, there’s something for everyone along this bustling street. Check out Psycic Sisters, the have tarot, crystals and all things mystical.

All in all, Alberta Street is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Portland. Whether you’re looking to explore the local art scene, sample some of the city’s best food and drink, or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere, Alberta Street has something for everyone.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Portland, Oregon is known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse music scene, making it a hot spot for dance clubs. From techno to hip hop, there are a variety of clubs to choose from in this city. Here are the top five dance clubs in Portland:

1. 45 East: Located in the heart of Portland, 45 East is a beloved dance club that features live music and DJs playing a variety of genres. The club has a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great place to dance and relax. The drinks are affordable and the music is always top-notch, making it a must-visit club for any dance enthusiast.
2. Dante’s: Located in Portland’s historic Old Town neighborhood, Dante’s is a timeless and grungy dance club that attracts a varied crowd. The club features live music and DJs playing a mix of cabaret as well as rock and roll music. Dante’s is known for its high-energy atmosphere and excellent sound system, making it a top choice for those looking to dance the night away.
3. The Coffin Club: The Coffin Club is a dark and spooky dance club located in Portland’s East Side. The club features queer parties, 80s, 90s, industrial, goth, punk, alternative, post-punk, dark electro, as well as EDM. The club also hosts concerts, burlesque shows, and tarot readings. The drinks are $7-12 and they also have Vegan options for grub.
4. Holocene: Holocene is a popular dance club located in Portland’s trendy Eastside neighborhood. The club features live music and DJs playing a variety of genres, including electronic, techno, and house. The club has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its excellent sound system, making it a great place to dance and relax. The drinks are reasonably priced and the music is always top-notch, making it a must-visit club for any dance enthusiast.
5. The Crystal Ballroom: The Crystal Ballroom is a historic dance club located in Portland’s downtown area. The club has a spacious dance floor and an excellent sound system, making it a top choice for those looking to dance the night away. The club features live music and DJs playing a variety of genres, including hip-hop, techno, and house. The Crystal Ballroom has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its affordable drinks, making it a popular destination for young professionals and college students.

Portland is home to some of the best dance clubs on the west coast. From trendy and upscale clubs to laid-back and affordable ones, there is something for every dance enthusiast in this city. So if you’re in Portland and looking to hit the dance floor, be sure to check out these top five clubs.

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