Lake Chelan - what the locals know

As I mentioned in an earlier post for Lake Chelan, I took a trip up the Lake to Stehekin. This town is only accessible by boat or seaplane and is located at the top of Lake Chelan. It's very rustic and beautiful, if you have time for a day trip - definitely put Stehekin on your list. Locals know that upon arrival you can rent bicycles to explore the area, including an incredible waterfall called Rainbow Falls. On the journey to the Falls, you pass the old one-room school that's still set-up with desks and drawings from the students around the room. It's fascinating to see what things used to be like for the small population of students who live here. On the way back from the Falls, we made a quick stop for drinks and ice cream before getting back to the dock where the boat was.

If you don't want to take your own boat all the way up to Stehekin (it's a pretty long drive and usually pretty choppy waters), you can also take a more comfortable trip on the Lady of the Lake. There are two options currently based on budget and time, you can take the Lady II for $39 with a 4 hour trip or the Lady Express (or what we call, The Little Lady) for $59 with a little over 2 hour trip.

If you are looking for a view from above, seaplanes are a great way to see the beauty of the Lake from above and get to Stehekin quickly. Chelan Airways offers trips to Stehekin at $149 roundtrip or $89 for one way. They offer a variety of other flights as well that are great ways to experience all that the scenery has to offer.

Napa Valley - hints and tips

My last little bits will hopefully help to make your trip a little easier, a little more enjoyable and very memorable.

Visit mid-week. There's a lot less traffic and some hotels have lower rates which means more money for food, wine and fun activities.

Speaking of food, wine and fun activities...my idea of a perfect fit would be dining at French Laundry or one of the other fine restaurants in the area. If you don't have a reservation and decide on a whim (sounds familiar), head over and prepare to wait - most likely, they'll fit you in. But don't quote me on that, always have a back-up just in case! :)

Try using Silverado Trail as your north-south driving route. It's more scenic and less crowded.

Rutherford Hill Winery's picnic area has a great view, and is nearly empty when picnic areas on the main highway are packed. My ideal picnic? ***Baguette, at least 3 cheeses, fresh fruit and of course, a great bottle of wine*** As a courtesy to the winery, buy a bottle of wine from them to enjoy with your picnic (they'll open it for you if you don't have an opener).

By the way, a great place for picnic goods is Sunshine Market on Main Street in St. Helena (pronounced Hel-EE-na) which is about 30 minutes north of Napa. You'll find an excellent selection of cheeses, fruits and baked goods. Don't forget to grab napkins and utensils while you're there.

While in St. Helena, check out Steve's Hardware for fun kitchen tools and gadgets ranging from tiny tart pans to the biggest wooden spoons you've seen in real life - I'm talking Harry Potter movie style.

PS - If you're near Yountville in the morning (about half way between Napa and St. Helena), stop by Gordon's for coffee with the locals...it's a great way to learn more fun secrets of the area.

Rocky Point - learn from experience

After many visits to RP, I've learned a few things along the way that I thought I'd share with you. First off, if you drive...stop by Vazquez (a large store on your left on your way through town). You can stock up on supplies such as tequila, mixers, snacks, etc. Plus, there is a GREAT little taco stand - emphasis on little - that is located in a parking space right in front of Vazquez and is always busy with both locals and those in the know. Additionally, there is a family-run shop next door (actually 2 doors down) that makes the best homemade tortillas in...well, probably the entire country of Mexico - I'm telling you, they are delicious. You will undoubtedly will see the little old lady that runs it and she doesn't speak a lick of English.

I will assume that at some point you will be in a car and if not, it's still useful advice for any time you are traveling through Mexico. Beware of the Policia - they really do pull you over for anything (especially if you look like a tourist) and they really will haul you to jail. If that is the case, do EVERYTHING you can to avoid it and yes, they really do take bribes. I pray that you don't ever have to find out but it's always good to know...just in case.

My last little tidbit is a reminder that due to the stricter policies that are being enforced - you now need a passport to fly there and starting at the beginning of 2008, you'll need a passport to drive across the border. So be sure you have one and it's not expired! :)

Siesta Key - take it from me

Now most tourists head straight to Sandy Beach - which I love, but the locals know to go to the numbered beach access areas since they aren't nearly as crowded - it's best if you can walk or bike to them (parking is scarce). Each of these beach stretches has its own advantages. Some are great for collecting shells or sand dollars, others are great for low-level snorkeling and all of them are great for sun bathing! :)

If you plan to go - please don't tell me until after you get back...I always get jealous!

Holbox Island - in the know

Here are some tips for your next trip to this fantastic little paradise.





Low season
-May and June
-October and November

Mid season
-Mid-January-March
-December
-September

High season
-Holidays (end of December/beginning of January)
-April
-July and August

Also important to point out, there are no rocks on the island (no wonder everyone is barefoot!). Shells are in abundance and if you are a shell collector or admirer, there are many unusual finds on the beach.

If you rent a golf cart to get around on the island, don't be surprised if you come across a Bassett Hound. His name is "Maclovio" and he's very friendly - he may even hop in the cart for a ride. :)

PS-There aren't any banks or ATMs on the island so bring dollars or pesos

Bora Bora - insider tips

I thought it would be a good idea to share a few of the local customs - they are unique and interesting! :)

In the late afternoons during the hotter season, you may see smoke on the motus (small islands surrounding Bora Bora) and on the island itself. Locals burn coconut shells to chase away the mosquitos at night.

While touring the island you may see palm trees with metal rings around them - it's to keep the rats from getting to the coconuts. :)


And probably the most interesting of all - tiare flowers. When a woman wears a flower behind:

• Her right ear - she is single, available and looking
  
• Her left ear - she is married, engaged or otherwise taken
  
  
• I don't endorse the following:
  
• Both ears - she is married but still available
  
• Backward behind both ears - anything goes