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Norway's Midnight Sun

Holding the Midnight Sun Norway was our destination.   My husband and I spent two weeks exploring the cities of Bergen and Trondheim as well as the Islands along the western fjords.   Our Norwegian relative tour guides told us we could not leave Norway without experiencing their midnight sun. We searched for the best place on one of the Islands and found it! The midnight sun was glowing across the horizon off the coast of Norway deep into the summer night.   There was a thrill just for being on top of ancient rocks that lined the coast of the Atlantic as the light was starting to fade in the distant horizon.   Our words and laughter seemed to echo across the rocks as the waves crashed high into the air.   We were not only enjoying the view but the sounds and smell of the open air of the salty ocean.    The glowing sun became a light in our hands as we stood and faced the camera.   As a couple we “held” the sun ...
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10 Day Washington State Road Trip

Pike Place Market Watercolor Here's a detailed 10-day Washington State Road trip itinerary focusing on cultural experiences, food tours, and historical sites, designed to fit within a $300-$400 daily budget. This assumes the budget covers accommodation, food, activities, and gas. Adjustments may be needed based on your specific accommodation choices (camping vs. hotels, etc.). Road Trip Overview: Starting Point: Seattle Loop: Seattle - Tacoma - Olympia - Astoria (Oregon, but close and historically relevant) - Longview/Kelso - Mount St. Helens - Yakima - Leavenworth - Seattle Vehicle: A standard car is suitable for this trip. Accommodation: A mix of budget-friendly hotels (e.g., Best Western, Comfort Inn), motels, and potentially some Airbnb options to save on costs. Consider booking in advance, especially during peak season. Food: Mix of affordable restaurants, local eateries, farmers' markets, and some splurge meals. Flexibility: This is a suggested itinerary. Feel free ...

Island Hopping in Washington State for 10 Days

Orcas Island, Washington State Here's a detailed 10-day island-hopping itinerary in Washington State, focusing on cultural experiences, food, historical sites, and staying within a $300-$400 daily budget. This itinerary assumes you're starting and ending in Seattle, and it factors in ferry costs, accommodation, food, and activities.  It also assumes you're renting a car for flexibility (crucial for island exploration). Important Notes: *    Ferry Reservations:   ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL, especially in peak season (summer). Make reservations well in advance at [ https://wsdot.wa.gov/ferries](https://wsdot.wa.gov/ferries) .  Book round-trip tickets where possible. *    Accommodation:   This itinerary suggests a mix of budget-friendly hotels, charming B&Bs, and potentially some camping (to save money). Prices can fluctuate, so book in advance.  I've estimated costs based on average prices, but always check for deals. *    Food:   ...

Texas Road Trip in 10 Days!

Texas Road Trip Here's a detailed 10-day Texas road trip itinerary focusing on cultural experiences, food & drink (with a focus on local breweries and wineries), historical sites, and staying within a $200-$300/day budget. This itinerary prioritizes driving efficiency and offers flexibility for adjustments based on your interests. Assumptions: * Starting Point: Austin (easily accessible airport) * Vehicle: You have a reliable vehicle (SUV or sedan is fine). * Accommodation: Mix of budget-friendly hotels (e.g., Holiday Inn Express, Best Western), Airbnb, and potentially a night or two of slightly more upscale lodging for special experiences. * Budget Allocation: This budget is estimated and can be adjusted based on your spending habits. It includes gas, food, activities, and accommodation. Day 1: Austin - Live Music Capital & Texas History (Budget: $250) * Morning (9:00 AM): Arrive at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Pick up your rental car. * M...

New Mexico on a Budget for 10 Days

Painting by Carol Eliassen Here is a detailed 10-day New Mexico itinerary focusing on cultural experiences, food, and historical sites, with a budget of $300-$400 per day. This itinerary assumes you'll be renting a car, which is essential for exploring New Mexico effectively. I'll factor in estimated costs for gas, food, activities, and lodging. Assumptions: Accommodation: Mid-range hotels/motels or well-reviewed Airbnb options (averaging $120-$180/night). Car Rental: $50-$75/day (including insurance). Food: Mix of casual and mid-range restaurants, with some splurge meals. Activities: Entrance fees, tours, and cultural experiences. Day 1: Arrival in Albuquerque & Old Town Charm Morning (9:00 AM): Arrive at Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ). Pick up your rental car. Morning (10:00 AM): Check into your hotel/Airbnb in or near Old Town Albuquerque. (Estimated: $150) Lunch (12:00 PM): Grab lunch at The Shed in Old Town for classic New Mexican cuisine (red chile i...

Tucson, Arizona on a Budget for 7 Days

Painting by Carol Eliassen Here's a detailed 7-day itinerary for Tucson, Arizona, focusing on cultural experiences, food, historical sites, and popular attractions, all while staying within a $200-$300 daily budget. This itinerary balances structured activities with flexibility, allowing for spontaneous discoveries. Important Notes: * Budget: The budget is an estimate and can be adjusted based on your spending habits. I've included options for free activities and affordable dining to help stay within the range. Accommodation costs are not included in the daily budget. * Transportation: This itinerary assumes you'll rent a car. Tucson is spread out, and a car is highly recommended for maximizing your time. Factor in rental car costs (approx. $50-$75/day) separately. Consider ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft) for evenings if you plan on drinking. * Reservations: Book tours, popular restaurants, and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. * Flexibilit...

Phoenix, Arizona in 10 days on a Budget

Arizona Cactus Painting by Carol Eliassen Okay, here's a detailed 10-day itinerary for Phoenix, Arizona. It focuses on cultural experiences, food tours, historical sites, and popular attractions while staying within a budget of $100-$200 per day. This itinerary balances structured activities with free time for exploration and accounts for potential transportation costs. Important Notes Before You Go: * Transportation: This itinerary assumes you'll primarily use a combination of ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft), public transportation (Valley Metro Rail and bus), and potentially rent a car for a day or two to explore areas outside of central Phoenix. Factor in these costs when planning your daily budget. Consider purchasing a multi-day public transit pass if you plan to use it frequently. * Reservations: Book tours, popular restaurants, and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. * Flexibility: This is a suggested itinerary. You can adjust it based on...