Author: gabby

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is an annual event that takes place in Woodburn, Oregon, about an hour south of Portland. The festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year and is known for its beautiful tulip fields, which bloom with a rainbow of colors in the springtime.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, which hosts the festival, was established in the 1970s by a Dutch immigrant named Keese Neuman. Neuman brought bulbs of various tulip varieties with him when he immigrated to the United States and planted them on his farm in Oregon. Today, the farm boasts over 40 acres of tulip fields, with over 250 varieties of tulips.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival typically takes place in April, when the tulips are in full bloom. Visitors can wander through the fields and take in the stunning display of color, as well as visit the farm’s gift shop, food vendors, and other attractions. The festival also features live music and other entertainment, as well as guided tours of the tulip fields.

In addition to the tulip fields, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm also has a pumpkin patch and a Christmas tree farm, which are open to the public during the appropriate seasons. The farm is a popular destination for families and tourists alike, and the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is a beloved annual tradition in the Oregon community.

The Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is a must-see event for anyone visiting Oregon in the springtime. The beautiful tulip fields are a sight to behold, and the festival offers a variety of fun activities and entertainment for all ages. So, if you’re planning a trip to Oregon, be sure to check out the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival – you won’t be disappointed!

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Smith Rock State Park, located in central Oregon, is a popular destination for rock climbers and hikers alike. With its towering cliffs and stunning views, it’s no wonder why it’s a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Misery Ridge Trail. This moderate to strenuous trail takes you to the top of Misery Ridge, providing breathtaking views of the park and surrounding area. The trail is about 3.5 miles roundtrip, with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet.

The hike begins at the main parking area and follows a well-marked path through a pine forest. As you continue on the trail, you’ll start to see glimpses of the red rock formations that make Smith Rock so iconic. As you climb up the ridge, the views get even better, with panoramic vistas of the park and beyond.

Along the way, you’ll come across a few rocky sections that require some careful footing. These sections can be challenging, but the reward at the top is worth it. The views from the top of Misery Ridge are simply breathtaking, with the Cascades and Three Sisters mountains in the distance.

If you’re not up for a strenuous hike, there are plenty of other trails in the park to choose from. The River Trail is an easy, 2.5-mile hike that follows the Crooked River and offers great views of the park’s cliffs and rock formations. The Canyon Trail is another easy option, taking you along the base of the cliffs and through a beautiful canyon.

No matter which trail you choose, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense in the dry, high-desert climate of Smith Rock. And don’t forget to pack your camera, as there are plenty of opportunities for breathtaking photos along the way.

Hiking Smith Rock is a must-do activity for anyone visiting central Oregon.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The Painted Hills, located in central Oregon, are a unique and stunning natural wonder that should not be missed by any nature enthusiast. With its colorful, layered hills formed by centuries of sedimentation and mineralization, it’s no wonder why this area is often referred to as a “living outdoor museum.”

Hiking through the Painted Hills is an absolute must for anyone visiting the area. The trails here offer a variety of lengths and difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone. The most popular trail is the Painted Hills Overlook Trail, a 2.6-mile loop that takes hikers through all three of the Painted Hills Units (Carroll Rim, Palisades, and Painted Cove).

As you make your way through the trails, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the colorful hills that give the area its name. The layers of rock and soil here are a mixture of red, yellow, and black, creating a stunning visual display that changes with the shifting light throughout the day.

In addition to the stunning views, the Painted Hills offer a rich history. The area was once home to a variety of plant and animal life, including saber-toothed cats and camels. These ancient creatures in left behind fossilized remains, which can still be seen in the layers of rock and soil today.

While hiking through the Painted Hills, be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as good hiking shoes. The trails here can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must. You’ll also want to bring a camera to capture all of the incredible sights you’ll encounter along the way.

Hiking the Painted Hills in Oregon is a must-do for any nature lover. The stunning views, rich history, and variety of trails make it an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and head to the Painted Hills for an adventure you’ll never forget.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The Enchantments in Washington Wilderness is a highly sought-after hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the Cascades Mountains, this area boasts stunning views, crystal clear alpine lakes, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. If you’re planning a trip to the Enchantments, here are a few things you need to know.

First and foremost, the Enchantments is a wilderness area, which means that it is protected and preserved by the government. As such, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles while hiking through the area. This means packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the environment.

In order to hike the Enchantments, you’ll need to obtain a permit from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. The permits are issued on a lottery basis, so it’s best to apply well in advance of your planned trip. There are also quotas in place to limit the number of hikers in the area each day, so it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of not receiving a permit.

Once you have your permit in hand, it’s time to start planning your route. The Enchantments is a long and challenging hike, so it’s important to be in good physical shape before attempting it. There are several different trails that lead into the Enchantments, so you can choose the one that best fits your ability level and desired route.

One of the highlights of hiking the Enchantments is the stunning views you’ll encounter along the way. From the top of Little Annapurna, you’ll be able to see the entire Enchantments basin stretched out before you. The alpine lakes in the area are also a must-see, with their crystal clear waters and vibrant colors.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for marmots, pikas, and other small mammals, as well as birds like the golden eagle and the peregrine falcon. The Enchantments is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including lupine, paintbrush, and mountain heather.

Hiking the Enchantments is a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a challenging hike, but the views and natural beauty you’ll encounter along the way make it well worth the effort. Just be sure to respect the wilderness and follow Leave No Trace principles to ensure the area remains preserved for generations to come.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The wine industry in Portland, Oregon has a long and storied history that dates back to the early 1800s. The first recorded grape vines in the region were planted in 1847 by a man named Nathaniel Coe, who owned a farm on the banks of the Willamette River.

Over the next several decades, the wine industry in Portland grew and flourished, with numerous wineries popping up throughout the region. In the 1870s, Portland became known as the “Bordeaux of the West,” due to the high quality of its wines and the abundance of grape vines planted in the area.

In the early 1900s, the wine industry in Portland experienced a significant setback due to the onset of Prohibition. Many wineries were forced to shut down or switch to producing non-alcoholic products in order to stay in business.

However, the wine industry in Portland managed to bounce back after Prohibition was repealed in 1933. In the decades following Prohibition, Portland’s wine industry experienced a resurgence, with many new wineries opening up and producing high quality wines.

Today, Portland is home to over 30 wineries, making it a major player in the wine industry in the Pacific Northwest. The city is known for producing high quality Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay wines, as well as a variety of other grape varietals. The wine industry in Portland has become a major contributor to the local economy, and it continues to thrive and grow.

There are many wineries in Portland, Oregon and the surrounding area that are worth visiting. Here is a list of some of the top wineries in the region:

1. Argyle Winery – Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Argyle produces a wide range of sparkling and still wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling.
2. Adelsheim Vineyard – Founded in 1971, Adelsheim is one of the oldest wineries in the Willamette Valley and is known for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris.
3. Anne Amie Vineyards – This winery, located in Carlton, produces a variety of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Muller-Thurgau wines.
4. Domaine Drouhin Oregon – A subsidiary of the famous French winery Maison Joseph Drouhin, this winery produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris from its vineyards in the Dundee Hills.
5. Erath Winery – Founded in 1972, Erath is one of the pioneers of the Oregon wine industry and produces a range of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris wines.
6. Willamette Valley Vineyards – Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this winery produces a wide range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris, as well as sparkling wines and other varietals.
7. Stoller Family Estate – This winery, located in the Dundee Hills, produces a variety of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris wines.
8. Sokol Blosser Winery – Founded in 1971, Sokol Blosser is one of the oldest wineries in the Willamette Valley and produces a range of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris wines.
9. Penner-Ash Wine Cellars – Located in the Rogue Valley, Penner-Ash produces a variety of Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Viognier wines.
10. Willakenzie Estate – This winery, located in the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, produces a range of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris wines.

I hope this list helps you plan your winery tour of Portland, Oregon!

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Planning the perfect trip to Asia or Europe is the easy part! It’s the long flight there where hanger, nausea, insomnia and jet lag can start your trip off on the wrong foot. When packing for a long flight, it’s important to be prepared and comfortable. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:

1. Pack lightweight and versatile clothing: Choose lightweight clothing that can be easily mixed and matched to create different outfits. Avoid bringing bulky or heavy items that will take up valuable space in your luggage.
2. Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help save space in your suitcase and prevent creases.
3. Use packing cubes: Packing cubes are a great way to organize your clothes and keep them from becoming a jumbled mess in your suitcase.
4. Invest in a good carry-on bag: Having a sturdy and well-organized carry-on bag will help you keep all of your essentials close at hand during the flight.
5. Pack a neck pillow, ear plugs, and an eye mask: A neck pillow, ear plugs, and an eye mask can help you get comfortable and sleep during the flight.
6. Bring snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks, such as granola bars or nuts, to help tide you over during the flight.
7. Bring a reusable water bottle: Airlines often don’t provide enough water, so bring a reusable bottle that you can refill once you’ve passed through security.
8. Wear your heaviest items: Wearing your heaviest items, such as shoes and jackets, on the plane will free up more space in your luggage.
9. Use the space in your shoes: Shoes can be a great place to store smaller items, such as socks or underwear.
10. Don’t forget to pack your essentials: Don’t forget to pack your passport, travel documents, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit and copies of important documents in case of emergency.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The London Underground, also known as the “tube,” is a rapid transit system that serves the Greater London area. It consists of 11 lines, with a total of 270 stations. Many of these stations have platforms for trains to arrive and depart from, known as “tube platforms.”

Tube platforms are typically located underground, and are accessed via escalators or stairs from the street level. They are usually quite long and narrow, with tracks on either side for trains to pass through. There are typically several platforms at each station, serving different lines or directions.

Tube platforms are also equipped with a number of amenities for the convenience of passengers. These may include ticket machines, Oyster card top-up machines, and vending machines for food and drinks. Some platforms also have information boards that display train times, destinations, and other important information.

1. The Piccadilly Line’s Covent Garden station is adorned with colorful murals inspired by Shakespeare’s plays, designed by artist Anna Kipervaser.
2. The Bakerloo Line’s Embankment station features a series of mosaic panels depicting the River Thames, created by artist David Batchelor.
3. The Central Line’s Liverpool Street station has a series of vibrant, abstract paintings by artist Tracey Emin, inspired by the city’s markets and businesses.
4. The Jubilee Line’s Canary Wharf station boasts a series of stunning, abstract murals by artist Peter McDonald, depicting the diversity and vibrancy of the city.
5. The District Line’s Aldgate East station has a series of beautifully designed ceramic tiles depicting the history and culture of the local area, created by artist Emma Rogers.
6. The Hammersmith & City Line’s King’s Cross St. Pancras station has a series of stunning mosaic artworks by artist Paul Wright, depicting the history and evolution of the city.
7. The Northern Line’s Angel station features a series of colorful, abstract paintings by artist Chris Ofili, inspired by the city’s diverse and vibrant culture.
8. The Circle Line’s Moorgate station has a series of beautifully designed mosaic tiles depicting the history and culture of the local area, created by artist Michelle Avison.
9. Charing Cross Station has medieval wood cuts depicting life in the Middle Ages.
10. Baker Street Station focuses on the famed fictional character Sherlock Holmes and his residence at 221 b Baker Street.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Paris is known for its beautiful art and architecture, and the city’s metro system is no exception. Here are some unique and creative examples of art found in the Paris metro:

1. Opéra Garnier – Located in the heart of the city, this station is adorned with ornate marble walls, gilded plasterwork, and mosaic tile floors.
2. Arts et Métiers – This station is designed to look like a futuristic submarine, with copper walls and a metallic ceiling straight from a Jules Verne Novel.
3. St. Michel Notre Dame – Located in the Latin Quarter, this station has beautiful stained glass windows and intricate mosaic tile work.
4. Concorde – This station features grand columns and arches, as well as intricate mosaic tiles displaying the French Declarations of Independence.
5. The “Mural of Peace” at the Nation station, which was created by French artist François Morellet in 1998. The mural consists of colorful geometric shapes and patterns, creating a visually striking and harmonious design.
6. The “Flamboyant” installation at the Châtelet station, created by artist Jean-Michel Othoniel in 2003. The work consists of hundreds of crystal beads hanging from the ceiling, creating a beautiful, shimmering effect.
7. The “Circular Wall” at the Hôtel de Ville station, created by artist Daniel Buren in 1999. The wall features colorful geometric shapes and patterns, creating a dynamic and eye-catching visual experience.
8. The “Cerulean Wall” at the Gare de Lyon station, created by artist Ellsworth Kelly in 1994. The wall features a series of blue and white ceramic tiles, creating a soothing and calming atmosphere.
9. The “Underwater World” installation at the Javel-André Citroën station, created by artist Patrice Cailleux in 1998. The installation features a series of murals depicting various sea creatures and underwater landscapes, transporting passengers to a beautiful underwater world.

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

If you’re looking to experience the nightlife in Paris, a bar crawl is the perfect way to do it! Here’s a guide for a fun and memorable bar crawl in the city of love:

1. Start off at the iconic Café de Flore, located on the Boulevard Saint-Germain. Sip on a glass of wine or enjoy a classic French cocktail like a Kir Royale.
2. Head over to the trendy Marais neighborhood and stop at Le Baron Rouge, a popular wine bar known for its selection of natural and organic wines.
3. Make your way to the hipster neighborhood of Le Marais and check out Le Comptoir Général, a quirky bar housed in a former warehouse with a tropical theme.
4. For a more upscale experience, visit the rooftop bar at the Hotel Raphael, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city while sipping on a cocktail.
5. End the night at one of the many lively clubs in Paris, such as Le Bataclan or Le Point Éphémère, where you can dance the night away to live music or DJs.

Remember to pace yourself and stay safe during your bar crawl. And don’t forget to try some classic French snacks like olives and cheese to soak up all the alcohol!

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Paris is a beautiful city with many iconic landmarks and romantic settings that is the perfect location for engagement photos. Some ideas for locations in Paris to consider for your engagement photos might include:

• The Eiffel Tower: A visit to Paris isn’t complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower, and it would make for a stunning background for your engagement photos. You could take photos on the tower itself, or from the ground with the tower in the background.
• The Louvre Museum: The Louvre Museum is home to many famous works of art, and its iconic glass pyramid entrance would make a beautiful backdrop for your photos. You could also take photos inside the museum, with famous works of art such as the Mona Lisa in the background.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful and historic cathedral in the heart of Paris. It would make a lovely setting for engagement photos, with its ornate architecture and stunning stained glass windows.
• The Seine River: The Seine River winds through Paris and is lined with charming bridges and picturesque views. You could take photos along the river, on one of the bridges, or even take a romantic boat ride for your photos.
• The Montmartre neighborhood: The Montmartre neighborhood is known for its stunning views of the city, and the iconic white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur would make a beautiful backdrop for your engagement photos.

These are just a few ideas, but Paris is full of beautiful and romantic locations that would be perfect for engagement photos.

You can find a photographer and book a private session via Airbnb Experiences, Groupon, or Facebook Market Place. Our session cost roughly $80 USD for 40 photos.

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