This summer was A-W-E-S-O-M-E! It flawlessly erased any fear I had about it becoming dull and/or going by too quickly. I decided to make it worth while and create really fun trip ideas for my family and partner Mark, as simple as they may sound to travel-adoring people.

(1) I started the summer off with Mark's high school graduation party. This is a photo of him helping set up balloons and other decorations. His grandmother and I organized the main idea, guest list and details, with tons of family helping us. I bought him a bunch of nice, small gifts, and his friends and family pitched in a lot. He says he enjoyed this day, and I truly hope it becomes a memory for a lifetime!

(2) Another thing Mark adores doing is amateur radio, so, I sucked up my boredom and put on my invisible "Super Girlfriend" disguise, spending 24 hours with him at his Field Day event. Field Day is a 24 hour competition on the same day, all over the world, in which amateur radio-ers, or "HAMs" try to make the most contacts within that period of time. I didn't get the hype, but I spent a good amount of time reading HAM Radio for Dummies. As you can tell from the photo above, we ended up sleeping in the car.

(3) Next, an event I absolutely had to attend and give my volunteer time to--one of the only days you can find me embracing the downtown area. Our local PFLAG chapter tabled at our city's annual pride parade and celebration for LGBTQ education and awareness. I am very passionate about gay rights, especially in our town, which fortunately is one of the most accepting and safe places to be a LGBTQ. Mark joined us and enjoyed the event, snapping away to capture photographic memories of the event.

(4). Portland, Oregon 3-day vacation with Mom and Mark. A lot of great memories were formed on this trip, and a lot of realizations were understood. I came to the conclusion: "I lead a very unconventional life, and yea, most people won't get that!" You would've thought that was an easy realization. Adding on to our trio's second annual trip, we visited OMSI again, saw the authentic Lan Su Chinese Garden and dined in their tea house, ate sweets at VooDoo Doughnuts, explored China Town, doughed out at Powell's Books, saw a flick, did plenty of shopping and subway hopping (see: this blog post).

(5). An event that never fails to please my family: a Mariner's baseball game! In mid-summer, the folks took Mark and I out to the ball game as we indulged in their trademark garlic fries and crackerjacks. Of course, like every year, we picked food up from Panera on our way to the light rail station!

(6). After my grandmother had passed, the family took a trip up to the town she lived in called Lincoln City, in Oregon. Lincoln City is known for its beaches and antique/knick-knack shopping, among other sorts such as gambling and family vacations. All four of us helped move her stuff and enjoyed a nice rental house on the beach.

(7). Celebrating 1.5 years of a family of five (I like to consider Mark welcome in and as our family), we enjoyed a camping trip at Illahee State Park. While visiting that area, I met up with the lovely woman that helped finalize my adoption to my parents, to say hello and catch up after all these years. The trip was a success, and learning how to cook gourmet camp food was even better! (see: this blog post).

(8). Fun for all, pets and their owners, is our annual Labor Day birthday party for dog Tess. We throw a bash that involves a 7 foot tall table of human food and treat bags for the dogs (get the pun?). Tess enjoyed turning the big 1-0 and I loved seeing family friends (see: this blog post).

(9). Friday Harbor, Washington is the main vacation the family went on this summer, which included tons of town exploring, ice cream devouring, sea food crunching and lavender farm hunting. I adore family time on the San Juan Islands. Great vacation spot for nature lovers and honeymooning couples (see: this blog post).

(10). A day trip to Seattle, Washington with Dad and Mark. Mark being able to get to know each of my parents is a big priority for me, so any time we can spend together with them individually is great. This was the day we all got a tour of the KOMO4 News building and got to meet some of their anchors, thanks to Mark's aunt, an employee there. Walking around the city and popping in a market called Piroshky, Piroshky (Russian savories and sweets) was our newer experience in Seattle (see: this blog post)!

Summer 2011 brought me a lot of wisdom and happiness, regardless of the bouts of drama and tifts along the way. I am SO blessed for the wonderful experiences and people I have been given in this lifetime, with a whole lot more to come.

Friday Harbor is a quaint, sweet town within the San Juan Islands in Washington state. Full of active experiences such as fishing, boating, hiking and kayaking, Friday Harbor is the best place to find your serenity within nature and enjoy a nice family get-away.

LODGING:
Rental Homes (such as this house my family stayed at):
All over Friday Harbor (and the San Juans)

Earthbox
410 Spring Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
A beautiful, natural hotel gives the "neighborhood" feel while using caring products that nurture your body, including a Spa right next door! It's all the rave in Friday Harbor. Their care packages within each "box" room, such as picking a theme of Earth, Water, Wind, etc, include free beach cruisers and more.


FOOD:
Friday's Crabhouse
Located right across from the ferry landing.
Delicious, authentic seafood caught locally and cooked at one of the numerous "stations" within the gazebo-designed restaurant that looks as if you are in the midst of a Jimmy Buffett music video. Friday's Crabhouse is where it's at!

The Market Chef
225 "A" Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
The most mouth-watering cafe food I have tasted in my life. Somewhat like a grocery store's deli, The Market Chef has a variety of sandwiches and salads that will make you come back for more. * Best, stacked crab cake EVER!

Mi Casita
95 Nichols St. 
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
One of the best Mexican restaurants I have ever been to. The plates are huge and the portions are just as filling. The waiters are very accommodating to vegetarian or pescetarian needs. Yum!

King's Market
160 Spring St
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Right in the bustle of the downtown's hottest street: Spring, King's Market and apparel provides all of your grocery needs. Stay home and cook once or twice during your stay! * Don't forget to check the beverage case in the back--they carry VOSS (seen in this article).

Friday Harbor Ice Cream Co.
1 Spring Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Over 40 flavors to choose from, located at a very convenient spot by the ferry terminal. Outside seating with great view of the local marina and islands.


ATTRACTIONS/SHOPS:
Pelindaba Lavender Farms (and stores)
33 Hawthorne Lane
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Acres of lavender tended to from the hands of those who are passionate about it. Natural, good-for-you items made from the staff's own machinery behind the farm, along with a huge store filled with rare, lavender-inspired items such as hand wipes, cooking vinegar, gourmet dog biscuits, lemonade, hot chocolate and more. A MUST-visit!

Roche Harbor Museum of Art & IMA Sculpture Park
285 Spring Street
Friday Harbor, WA
Roche Harbor is a small community located by Friday Harbor, the park is located within it, and the museum can be found at the address above. The sculpture park has over 100 pieces of artwork spanning over a hike of 30 minutes or more. Family events are held seasonally with guest artists.

Dockside Treasures
110 Front St # 6
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Knick-knacky shop filled with souvenirs to take with you while you are waiting for your ferry ride home. I purchased a lovely ring (that did not turn my finger green) from their extensive selection of jewelry and a lovely ceramic storage dish that I absolutely love.

Griffin Bay Bookstore
155 Spring Street
Friday Harbor, WA 98250-1669
Confidently the biggest bookstore in Friday Harbor, "the local Barnes & Noble", home to stationary gifts, journals and many more "reading accessories".

Sweet Spot
30 East St
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Great for the young and young at heart. Confectionary shop filled with old-fashioned bins and selections of candy priced by the piece, as low as $.5!

Serendipity Used Bookstore
225 A St
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Great finds daily at about half of retail bookstores' prices. Loads of books and genres to choose from along with a very friendly staff.

Friday Harbor Trading Co.
180 1st Street North
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
"A Northwest nautical gift shop" filled with knick-knacks and treasures from the sea.

Lime Kiln State Park
Unit Main, 1567 West Side Road
Friday Harbor, WA 98250-8602
Great for a picnic or a walk to see the whales and dolphins. Whale plush toys, videos and "listening" exhibit located in the visitor center.

The Hot Shop
260 Spring St # 1
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
The spiciest place in Friday Harbor--a shop filled with sauces, salsas and all other things flaming hot!

Friday Harbor Drug
210 Spring Street West, 
Friday Harbor
Great drug store for all of your vacation needs.

* Shops located on Spring Street can guarantee a great find for those with little or a lot to spend!

While enjoying our family vacation to Friday Harbor, Washington (part of the San Juan Islands), I found some awesome treasures I wanted to share. Some San Juan-related, some not.

From left to right: A memorabillia t-shirt from a local shop near Friday's Crabhouse, a delicious seafood restaurant that caters to all needs, along with a souviner "Friday Harbor" box from a shop by the ferry boat terminal, and a gift ring from latter as well.

Middle: A couple books I found at Serendipity's used bookstore (featured: O's Guide to Life book about numerous lifestyle topics and What If, a book highlighting "what if?" scenarios in life for the faint-hearted). While visiting the whale watching exhibit at Lime Kiln State Park, I picked up 3 postcards for a dollar. The sunglasses are from Friday's Crabhouse side shop where I purchased my tee.

Far right: Items from Pelindaba Lavender Farm, a natural San Juan farm that grows and produces their own products at their main farm located in Friday Harbor. My mom adores lavender--everything lavender!! Together, we purchased (and now share) five products from Pelindaba: a pitcher mix of lavender lemonade, lavender tea lights, lavender honey, lavender skin salve and lavender soothing hand wipes. The dog also shared our lavender joy while enjoying two small gourmet, lavender-chicken biscuits.

Friday Harbor has a LOT of fun shops and with rare experiences like Pelindaba Farms and Friday's Crabhouse, you never go without things to do. Two items not featured above in the photos are:

 

VOSS water, artesian water from Norway, sold in local drug and grocery stores, as well as Bobino cord wraps--small, medium and large, perfect for earphones, USB cords and other electronic accessories.

Every summer, my parents and I like to take a trip to unwind and be one with nature (well, they do--I tag along for the campground experience). The past two years, my partner Mark has been joining us.

This year, we researched for campgrounds near Silverdale, Washington and came up with our first choice of Illahee State Park. You can't make reservations at Illahee ahead of time, and there is a total of 20 campsites available, so we were lucky to find a spot. Our camp neighbors were friendly and it was a fun experience.

I usually sit around, play card/board games and well, be bored. This year, I made it my biggest goal to cook each meal for our three-day camping adventure, and not only cook, but cook elaborate meals that would typically be prepared in a home.

I came up with this food itinerary:
Sunday Night Dinner - Baked Salmon with Artichoke and Dill.

Along with Baked Potatoes with Garlic.

Dessert all days - Chocolate Fondue and Fruit Skewers.

Monday Breakfast - Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nut Mixture.

Along with Traditional French Toast.

Monday Dinner - Garden Burgers made from scratch.

Tuesday Breakfast - Smoked Salmon Scrambled Eggs with Dill on Baguettes.

Of course for lunches we ate bagels, sandwiches and whatnot, but it was so exciting to experiment with such elaborate, yet easy recipes for my first time cooking in "the wild", as I like to call it (anything foreign from a computer screen is earth-shaking for me. Kidding).

The recipe book I snagged these ideas out of is a gem I discovered at Barnes & Noble called: The Camping Cookbook, which isn't released to have any particular author, but has a pretty modern look to it. To see full recipes and make them yourself, check out my channel and search for "Easy 'Gourmet' Camp Foods".

I love visiting Seattle! It's so full of life and sunlight. Here is a list of some of the most exciting attractions in Seattle.

LODGING:
The Maxwell Hotel
300 Roy Street
Seattle, WA 9810
A gorgeous, high-class hotel in the midst of a bustling city. Fresh cupcakes and tasty treats are complimentary for their guests, along with a friendly staff and retro art lining the walls. Read my review about The Maxwell.

The Mediterranean Inn

425 Queen Anne Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109-4517

A place for a coffee fanatic, city-lover to relax in a simple environment, The Mediterranean is one of the most raved about hotels in Seattle, and has a Starbucks cafe right besides it.


FOOD:
The Cheesecake Factory
700 Pike Street, Seattle
A delicious, top-rated restaurant nestled within the big factory of cheesecakes on Pike Street is a popular place for lunch and dinner for both residents and tourists.

Pacific Place Food Court
600 Pine St # 228, Seattle
One of the famous malls in the area has a pretty decent arrangement of food court stands and genres of food for both breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.

Pike Place Market
1531 Western Ave
Seattle, Washington 98101
A variety of cafes and delicious bakeries and seafood shops line the levels of the famous Pike Place Market.

Yanni's Greek Restaurant

7419 Greenwood Avenue
Seattle, WA 98103-5043

The best Greek restaurant in the city of Seattle, in my humble opinion. A family-run restaurant and lovely, cozy atmosphere makes for a perfect, romantic date or dinner with the large family.

Three Girls Bakery
1514 Pike Pl # 1, Seattle (located in Pike Place Market)
or
6209 15th Avenue Northwest, Seattle
The best bearclaw pastries on the planet, but again, this is just my humble opinion. Go ahead and taste for yourself!

Starbucks (by Pike Place Market)
1912 Pike Place, Seattle
The very first Starbucks (yes, ever) opened up on 2000 Western Avenue, and was relocated to 1912 Pike Place. The long line is worth the wait for a look inside the very first Starbucks and the friendly staff within.

Piroshky, Piroshky Bakery
1908 Pike Place
Seattle, WA 98101
Delicious Russian-styled savory and sweet treats that leave your mouth watering for more. * My recommendation is to try the Moscow roll and the sweet cream cheese berry vatrushka

ATTRACTIONS/SHOPS:

Pike Place Market
1531 Western Ave
Seattle, Washington 98101
Along with their delicious food items, there are crafty shops and local businesses with interesting finds for all ages.

Ride The Ducks
516 Broad Street
Seattle, WA 98109
Land and water tours of the greatest monumental landmarks within Seattle, Washington, including the lake house where Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan filmed the famous "Sleepless in Seattle" scene and more.

Seattle Asian Art Museum
1400 East Prospect Street, Seattle
Rich in history and artifacts, the Seattle Asian Art Museum has everything an avid history lover would be curious about--paintings, statues and monuments and authentic calligraphy pieces. * Please note that this museum is peaceful, not extremely little-kid-friendly and is not hands-on.

ROSS Dress for Less
1418 3rd Ave # 100, Seattle
ROSS stores are around the country, but this elaborate Seattle store located on the bustling downtown city streets fills a bargain hunter's heart with glee, never failing to exceed the level set by other ROSS stores in Washington state.

Nordstrom Rack and others
1601 2nd Avenue, Seattle
Ever wish you could own designer brand clothing or shoes, but for much less? Nordstrom Rack takes items that didn't sell at their local Nordstrom's stores and prices them for cheap, bargain-y prices every day. Go browse along the rack, and don't forget to walk around in the area to find more deals downtown.

The Space Needle
203 6th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98109
The most famous landmark in Seattle, WA is the Space Needle, known for its rooftop cafe and observation deck. Take a trip at fast speed to the top of a beautiful monument that has shaped the hard workers in this city to living legends.

Key Arena
305 Harrison Street
Seattle, WA 98109-4623
Home to some of the greatest shows and celebrity shindigs, not to mention sporting events, the Key Arena always has something to offer that is fun for the whole family.

The Experience Music Project (EMP)
325 5th Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109
This is where kids can have fun, let loose and enjoy themselves with their siblings, friends and parents. They can learn about all genres of music, create their own, even star in their own rock band at the Sound Lab. A favorite of mine since six or seven.

Pacific Science Center
200 Second Ave North
Seattle, WA 98109
A great arrangement of the most advanced scientific exhibits and displays can be found at the PSC, including the beautiful topical butterfly house.

Last night, partner Mark, furry sister Tess, mom Peggy and dad Dave joined me for a stroll along the beach, and a (very lengthy) photoshoot!

Naturally, I also got some decent photos of myself, taken by my wonderful Mark.

Having my entire true family down with me at the beach is the happiest I’ve been in a long time.

Located in the midst of the Lan su Yuan Chinese garden in Portland, Oregon is the delicious teahouse in the Tower of Cosmic Reflections.

Quiet solitude is what you experience walking in to the teahouse. Warm Chinese dishes and a plethora of herbal and spiced teas await you, along with an inviting staff who know their Chinese mannerisms well.

Our trio ordered the vegetarian dumplings, steamed buns, hot tea, and guava juice. The menu ranges from $2-20 dollars and will pleasantly surprise you with its authenticity. While service was a bit slow that day, lunch was delightful, to say the least!

Oh, how I love to travel! A couple hours ago, I departed on a train on the way to Portland, Oregon. Like every summer since I was twelve years old, Portland is my mother and I's getaway from the insanity in our own town.

Last year, my "date" (Mark) joined us! We visited the OMSI museum, Japanese Garden, Saturday market, went jet-boating, and explored city life while watching the big Fourth of July firework display over the Willamette river.

This year, we plan on checking out the legendary VooDoo Doughnuts, exploring Old Town China Town/Chinese garden and doing a lot of shopping here and there. Of course we are leaving time for the OMSI, Saturday market, and maybe even the Rose Test Garden (the oldest operating garden, from WWI).

Trains are an inexpensive, practical way to travel. We take the Amtrak, whose reputation is quite poor in terms of being on time, but whose staff is kinder than ever and food can make your tastebuds happy. I suggest taking the Amtrak somewhere local for a day trip, or scheduling a weekend away. Sometimes it's good just to get out of your normal town and experience culture unidentical to your own.

Bellingham, Washington, home to many travelers, happy, wholesome families, and bustling, optimistic College kids. A great vacation destination with quaint locations filled with many opportunities, including the refurbished, old Fairhaven district.

LODGING:
The Quality Inn Baron Suites
100 East Kellogg Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
A affordable, friendly hotel with seasonal pool, nearly year-round hot tub, and one of the most varied continental breakfasts I've ever seen. I give it 3/5 stars--a must-stay if you are spending a quiet weekend.

FOOD:
red.berry
202 East Holly
Bellingham, WA 98226
Deliciously delectable frozen yogurt shop. Pick your flavor of yogurt, then top it off with fresh fruits, berries, and sweet treats. Bargain spend for a quick snack that will leave your tastebuds tingling for more!

Fiamma Wood-fired Pizza
200 East Chestnut Street
Bellingham, WA 98225-5003
One of the best pizzerias in town! Known for their famous rosemary lemonade and authentic, wood-fired pizza, Fiamma will never disappoint. Just a heads up: don't ask them to split a salad (you will know what I mean once you read the menu!). Consider making reservations ahead of time.

Mallard's Ice Cream
1323 Railroad Avenue
Bellingham, WA 98225-4722
The craziest flavors aside from "pistachio" (they have that, too!), Mallard's adds a unique twist to what we call "normal" ice cream. In their new location, Mallard's is a hot-spot for all ages, and a tiny piece of what makes Bellingham so creative. Within a few-block walking distance of Fiamma Wood-fired Pizza!

Farmer's Market
Saturday Market
Downtown, Depot Market Square
Railroad & Chestnut Streets
Wednesday Market
Fairhaven, Village Green
Mill Street
A great family spot with all-natural veggies, fruits, and grains. Creative knick-knacks, booths, and fresh, warm food from all different cultures.

Food Co-Op
1220 North Forest Street, Bellingham
Like many other food co-ops around the area, this store has an outstanding variety of organic and natural foods for the ultimate health nut, along with delicious ready-made salads, sandwiches, and hot dishes for a lunch to go (or eat in the cafe!).

Pepper Sisters
1055 North State Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
Deliciously HOT Mexican food. Authentic, unique, and will have you craving more (even when you are too full)! Don't go here if you have a sensitive tongue, or at least order your food very mildly spicy!

ATTRACTIONS/SHOPS:
American Museum of Radio & Electricity
1312 Bay Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
Want to know a bit more information on where or why all this electricity, radio, and T.V. nonsense came about? This museum is the 4-1-1 center of all things electronic! A perfect destination for those who know nothing, a little, or are a pro radio expert. * AMORAE also runs their own radio set-up with an extensive storage of radios and booklets on the 2nd level that will shock any HAM operator.

Marine Life Center
1801 Roeder Avenue # 100
Bellingham, WA 98225-2200
A quaint building with a wide selection of sea creatures from the deep! You can find everything from crabs to jellyfish, sea urchins to octopus located within an observation pool, touch pool, eelgrass aquarium, octopus tank, and rocky shore habitat. A great family option with a mere $2 suggested donation per person!

For The Love of Hospice
1051 N. State St. Bellingham, WA 98225
A small, cute boutique-type thrift store was opened here on State Street, right next door to infamous Pepper Sisters restaurant by a nurse who had a mission to support the local Whatcom Hospice organization. Extremely reasonably-priced items for quality and good use, sold by compassionate individuals who care about their cause.

/FAIRHAVEN/

Village Books & Cafe
1200 Eleventh Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
Village Books always has something for everyone: every age, and every mindset. Friendly staff, reasonable pricing, and spacious interiors are only some of the reasons Village Books remains Fairhaven's treasure. Proceed up the elevator to an open cafe, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi location for all to overlook the charming, old-fashioned Fairhaven district.

Paper Dreams
1206 11th Street
Bellingham, WA 98225-7066
Attached to Village Books, Paper Dreams is your one-stop shop for all things creative: journals, stationary, wrapping paper, even a plethora of greeting cards and knick-knacks are up for the taking. A bit more on the pricey end, you may want to visit with a full wallet.

One of the small, special things I discovered while in Bellingham is the frozen yogurt hotspot, red.berry! Ranging from 3-6 dollars, customers can pick their chosen flavor of yogurt, and top it with chocolate or fruity treats.

I picked the original flavor with blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. Along with the delicious treat, the cafe-like setting is easy on the eyes, modern and hip decor, with magazines and flower accents.

My favorite place to visit while in Bellingham, Washington, is the wood fire pizzeria, Fiamma. It is consistently a "hot spot", so I recommend getting there early, around 5, or later, around 7. Fiamma cooks much more than just pizza, it spices up and adds delicious flavor to pasta, heavy salads, and paninis. With a little bit of everything, this will cure hunger for the vegetarian, and the omnivore.

Tonight, I ordered the delicious Greek Havoc and Veggie Fiona pizzas (mind you, there were 4 other people with me). Greek Havoc is a thick layer of cheese, stuffed with veggies such as red peppers, black olives, artichokes, and more. The Veggie Fiona impressed me the least, coated with rosemary leafs and spicy sauce. It is topped off with kalamata olives and tasty thin cheese. What's that, peaking out from the corner with a lemon wedge, you ask?

Their infamous (and delicious) rosemary lemonade.

Whether you're there for a soda, or a pizza to go, you will never be disappointed in Fiamma: Wood Fire Pizza! It is located on East Chestnut Street in Bellingham, Washington's downtown district.

Due to my grandmother's recent passing, I will have to gradually leave behind one of my favorite cities. A place I have called home for all my life: Lincoln City, Oregon.

Resting gently among the beach, Lincoln City is filled to the brim with happiness, solitude, and friendly people. A quaint town with antique stores, a small movie theater and factory outlet, not forgetting the delicious (and authentic) salt water taffy.


This blog post is a part of the mini-series "Childhood Snippets"

Thank you to my beautiful boyfriend for these incredible shots down at a boardwalk in Lincoln City, Oregon over the weekend.

(Photo by The Maxwell Hotel)

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of staying at the Maxwell hotel in Seattle, Washington. The hotel is known for its non-smoking, dog-friendly amenities. It is claimed to be in the top 10 "trendiest" U.S. hotels. The staff at the front desk are incredibly friendly, and hold a high respect and helpful attitude towards their guests.

A great place for conventions to be held, families to enjoy the kid-friendly pool with glass tile artwork, or lovers to get away and enjoy a lavish suite, the Maxwell is a warming, inviting hotel. I was very impressed by the chic, modern decor (not to mention the huge pineapple on lobby's floor). When you leave for the day/night to explore the city, they often set out small vanilla cupcakes topped off with small pieces of dried pineapple. While I didn't quite understand the pineapple theme, the "Maxwell officials" listed that pineapples back-in-the-day were a sign of extreme graciousness, and a very rare fruit!

The hotel rooms are bold, stylish, and comfy. Complete with a high speed wireless access and a big screen TV in any average room, your party is bound to be in tech Heaven. The only negative I found--the hotel is not easy-on-the-eyes. It is full of lime green, bright yellow, and deep red colors with modern artwork of jazz bands and random splashes of color.

The pros beat out the cons--I will definitely consider staying here again, whether it is overnight or a week-long vacation. To learn more about what the Maxwell has to offer you and your family, click here.

Take the virtual tour:

As the holidays are in full swing, and school comes to its half-way point, I am starting to brainstorm ideas for where I could go on my next vacation. For Spring break last year I convinced my mom to take me to Las Vegas, Nevada.

I assume the first Vegas attraction to catch my eye was the Madame Tussauds Museum. I had heard about the latest Michael Jackson wax figure installation in the London museum, and quickly went online to see if there were any MJ statues in the U.S. As of today, there are only two other Michael Jackson Madame Tussaud wax figures--one in Vegas, and one in Hollywood, California. I was disappointed when I arrived, discovering that the figure in Vegas was not that realistic, and the look dated back to perhaps 2003.

Looking for further amusement, mom and I took a dip into the realms of magic. We got to meet legendary magicians Penn & Teller, and see some of the white tigers (among other animals) at the Sigfried and Roy animal habitat at The Mirage hotel. Bummer we did not see Cirque du Soleil: LOVE, The Beatles tribute.

For dinner one night, mom and I dined at the Rainforest Cafe inside the MGM (one of the world's biggest hotels--over 6000 rooms!), which was quite the "interesting" experience. Inside the cafe, there were articulate designs of a rainforest: branches, trees, bugs, animals, and the like. The starry sky rested above, with a thunder and lightning show every several minutes, that I must admit: was distracting to the diners, but quite neat.

Around every 20 minutes on the strip, by "Paris" (a famous attraction, replica of The Eiffel Tower), a fountain show at The Bellagio hotel goes on for about three long minutes set to beautiful classical music. Mom and I couldn't miss it. Gaining some other variety, we did also do the traditional act of splurging our wallet and eating in a high-end buffet, and got to walk through numerous hotels (such as Caesar's Palace), viewing the frighteningly high Donnie & Marie, and Cher billboards. I got pretty excited when I saw the outside view of Caesar's Palace with a sign advertising Celine Dion's tour in the spring of next year. I may just have to come back.

All in all: Vegas is a wonderful vacation spot, for the young and the old, buuuut... you may not want to stay more than a weekend. It gets boring. Quickly.

I visit Portland, Oregon one-two times a year. Here I've compiled some of my favorite places to go, which I think are some of the greatest hits of Portland.

SHOPPING

Many downtown stores close by 6PM so make sure you show up early!

Jantzen Beach Center
1405 Jantzen Beach Center
Portland, OR 97217
A collection of just about everything. ROSS and the Burlington Coat Factory have decor, accessories, apparel and shoes with designer and famous brand names for cheaper.

Lloyd Center
2201 Lloyd Center
Portland, OR 97232
A brilliant collection of 200+ stores. Is the leading, biggest mall in Oregon. Features 18 movie theaters and a nice ice rink.

Pioneer Place
700 SW 5th Ave
Portland, OR 97204
Charming, but expensive mall. Very much worth taking a stop to visit The Body Shop or American Eagle.

Powell's Books
1005 W. Burnside
Portland, OR 97209
One of the most famous bookstores in all of the USA. Great finds, quiet and friendly cafe atmosphere.

Made in Oregon
600 SW 10th Avenue, Suite 101
Portland, OR 97208
Gift shop filled with fun knick-knacks and apparel/food products to help you remember your Oregon adventure.

......................................................
DINING

Stanford's
1440 N. Jantzen Beach Center
Portland, OR 97217
Delicious way to treat yourself out to a formal dinner, or a dinner on the go. Food comes fast and impresses me every time. Try the veggie burger and Caesar salad - they're my favorites.

Paradise Cafe
Pioneer Place
700 SW 5th Ave
Portland, OR 97204
Unbelievable 3-salad dishes and cookies that are great for any lunch at any time.

......................................................
SIGHTSEEING

Gov. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
1020 SW Naito Pkwy
Portland, OR 97204
Beautiful park, perfect for a jog or relaxing stop along those long tiring blocks of walking.

Portland Ducks Land and Water Tours
Approx.
777 NE ML King Blvd.
Portland, OR 97232
Just like the Seattle, Washington ducks, the Portland tour goes on land and water to show you some of my favorite spots!

Japanese Gardens
611 Southwest Kingston Avenue
Portland, OR 97205
These beautifully landscaped, well-known gardens have brought joy to the hearts of tourists for years. Whether it is the sand garden, the tea house, or the art gallery rotating in displays every season, you are sure to find something you like.

OMSI Museum
1945 SE Water Ave
Portland, Oregon 97214
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a winner if you are looking for a new museum experience. Every day, various laser light shows are put on to music and documentary. There is a U.S.S. Blueback ship for admiration and tours, and much more. * I visited during the Albert Einstein exhibit.

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HOTELS

Lloyd Center Doubletree Hotel
1000 NE Multnomah Street
Portland, OR 97232
Leading Portland hotel in implementing Green Practices. My favorite hotel of all time, honestly. Amazing restaurant and custom ice cream sundaes. Very nice staff, great atmosphere. 5 stars.

Oxford Suites
12226 N Jantzen Dr
Portland, OR 97217
Pretty nice hotel, 3 stars. Sweet staff, nice contenential breakfast. Comfortable beds and cool TV channel options. Beautiful artwork on the room's walls.

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SKATING

Lloyd Center
2201 Lloyd Center
Portland, OR 97232
Ever heard of Jenni Meno and Todd Sand, three-time U.S. Champions? Well, they trained at this rink, and I think it is a very quaint place to hang out with friends! Very small, but a great place to practice while on vacation.