An Exquisite Evening at El San Juan Hotel

I recently enjoyed an exquisite evening of dinner, dancing, and (a few) drinks at the newly remodeled and quite fabulous El San Juan hotel located in Isla Verde area of San Juan, Puerto Rico.  Now part of the Fairmont luxury properties, this vintage resort oozes classic Caribbean opulence and splendor.

An Exquisite Evening at El San Juan

El San Juan hotel offers cozy spots for a romantic evening, and a healthy nightlife for an exciting night out.  Saturday night may be filled with fashionable activities like formal school dances (Prom), wedding receptions, or other celebrations.  Or check for out some of the upcoming events at the Cabaret lounge.

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Visit London’s Borough Market | Best Food Market in London

The Borough Market in London is a foodie lover’s dream come true.  With fresh fruit and produce stalls, meals to go available in every type of cuisine that you can imagine, nibbles galore, and refreshing beverages of all kinds there is still more to explore.Visit London's Borough Market

Located a few feet from London Bridge tube station for easy access and nestled against the spectacular Southwark Cathedral, the Borough Market is one of the oldest markets dating around 1,000 years in some form, and certainly a permanent fixture in London. The market is a mix of mobile kiosks, tents, and built in structures. Continue reading “Visit London’s Borough Market | Best Food Market in London”

Phoenix Zoo Lights | Winter Holiday Tradition

Every winter (since 1991) starting Thanksgiving week until early January, the Phoenix Zoo decks out the grounds in an amazing light show.  Phoenix ZooLights is a holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike.  For these few weeks every year, the Phoenix Zoo transforms into a holiday wonderland at night.  

phoenix-zoolights

The mild winter temperatures in Phoenix (early evening in the 60’s F/18 C) are perfect to enjoy hot chocolate and walk around the Zoo admiring the light show.  Only some of the animals may be visible during the ZooLights event, but you may still get to see a Unicorn!

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Charco Azul, Patillas | Fresh Water Natural Pool Puerto Rico Travel Guide

Travel Guide for Charco Azul fresh water pool in Patillas, Puerto Rico. Hiking, swimming, picnic and camping guide.

Ever since moving to Puerto Rico earlier this year, I am beach and water obsessed.   Coming from the hot, dry desert the beach is still a magical, mysterious place.  I am always on the hunt for special, secluded little places and ask all of the long-term residents about their favorite spots.  So I was surprised when multiple trusted locals told me about the secret mountain pools around the island.  Intrigued by other natural water activities, we decided on a visit to Charco Azul.

charco-azul-natural-pool-puerto-rico

Charco Azul is a fresh water, natural swimming pool located in the southeast mountain region of Puerto Rico.   It is close  to our neighborhood in Palmas Del Mar.  It is also the most popular natural pool on the island.   We braced ourselves for huge crowds and (possible) disappointment, then drove out Sunday morning in the off season (August – November) to explore.

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White Tanks Mountain Hiking Destination in Arizona

The White Tank Mountain range is located on the far West side of metro Phoenix, within the edge of Maricopa County. Not as popular with hikers in the summer due to the brutal heat, this becomes a popular mountain trail in the cooler months.

The views are spectacular with a variety of hiking trails of several levels of difficulty to accommodate everyone.  The Waterfall trail is even wheelchair & stroller friendly. Best of all, the park is dog friendly, so bring your pup along for a great day outside enjoying the spectacular desert beauty.

Don’t let the name fool you, the waterfall trail is often a small trickle in dry season. After a big rain storm, like the summer monsoon season, the waterfall is flowing and cool. A few special days, the waterfall is big enough to form a small pool for a quick, refreshing dip.

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