Michelle Segrest's Blog, page 2
October 30, 2020
Top 10 Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama
By Michelle Segrest, Navigate Travel Adventures
The weather is spectacular year-round. The beaches are sugary white, and the sunsets are breathtaking. Gulf Shores offers plenty of outlet shopping, restaurants, events, concerts, art shows, bars, and attractions. But the greatest thing about living in Gulf Shores is that I can take my beagles, Cap’n Jack & Scout, almost anywhere with me.
Most restaurants with outdoor seating are happy to allow you to bring your furry family members along if you keep them on a leash. And the opportunities to unleash the hounds at local dog parks are abundant.
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These are my Top 10 things to do with Cap’n Jack & Scout in my hometown of dog-friendly Gulf Shores, Alabama.
1. Kayak Adventures. Load your dog on your kayak and take a paddle around Plash Island. I love chatting with the local fishermen and enjoy seeing all the shrimp boats. We always see dolphins, pelicans, and other wildlife. It takes me about two hours to paddle around the entire island if I don’t stop to take pictures or to rest, but there are several places to beach the kayak and let the dogs run and play. It’s a perfect opportunity for an afternoon of free, fun activity with your dog.
2. Spend an afternoon at Pirate’s Cove. Pirate’s Cove is a dog’s paradise with open beach to play on and tons of sun-loving boaters who are sure to share treats. It’s about a 40-minute cruise from Plash Island in a power boat, but much longer if traveling by sailboat. It’s totally worth the trip and a can’t-miss activity for dogs and their humans.
3. Go to Dog-Friendly Restaurants. I love to load the dogs in the Protagonist, my wooden day sailer, and sail down the ICWW to Tacky Jack’s. You can moor your boat right outside, and dogs are welcome if you take an outside table. Some other local restaurants that are dog friendly include Flying Harpoon, Hog Wild BBQ, Shrimp Basket, Bleus Burger, Woodside Restaurant, the Beach House Kitchen & Cocktails, Pleasure Island Tiki Bar, Flora-Bama Yacht Club and one of my other favorites, The Gulf.
4. Get an ice cream treat. Treat your dog to a free ice cream sundae made just for him at Brusters Real Ice Cream. The parlor offers this special treat with dog biscuits crumbled on top so your dog can enjoy an ice cream date along with the rest of the family.
5. Unleash the Hounds. The Dog Park at Gulf State Park on Shelby Lake is by far Cap’n Jack & Scout’s favorite local dog park. There are separate areas for big and small dogs with plenty of room to run and play with other dogs. From 8 a.m. until sunset dogs can run and play unleashed and splash in the fresh water of Shelby Lake. Often alligators have been spotted there so watch out for these predators. There are several other great dog parks in the area—including Gulf Shores Dog Park, Orange Beach Waterfront Park, and Unleashed Dog Park-Orange Beach.
6. A day at the beach. Fort Morgan Beach is the only dog-friendly beach in the area, and dogs must be kept on a leash, although the Fort Morgan Historic Site is off limits for dogs.
7. Go camping. Gulf State Park Campground is a great place to hang out with your furry family members. Dogs are allowed but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside your vehicle, and they must be properly cleaned up after.
8. Go hiking. Take a hike in Gulf State Park, which allows pets on leashes on the trails, as well as in the campground and picnic areas. No pets are allowed in the nature center, in the swimming pool, or on the beaches, unfortunately.
9. More places to hike. Connecting with Gulf State Park is the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail, a network of seven trails that span more than 15 miles and six different ecosystems. While pets must remain on a leash at all times on these trails, they’ll have plenty of space to run, play, and explore.
10. Give the dogs a mini-break. If you are in Gulf Shores and want to do something that’s not dog friendly, check out SeaPaws Dog Resort for the day. With two locations (Plash Island and Foley) this place offers a full day of unleashed fun for your dog. It’s the best doggie daycare and boarding place on the Gulf Coast with acres of fenced room for your dog to run and play with other dogs. Cap’n Jack & Scout get so much exercise and social interaction. Paula takes such good care of them you will feel comfortable leaving them for the day if you need to enjoy other activities on the coast.
Here are my Top 6 Must-Have Items for Traveling with DogsA dog-friendly travel kit that includes basic first aid supplies, stainless steel food and water bowls, and food storage containers.
Pet-friendly safety car seat belts and car harness.
Pet seat cover for the car — especially if you have dogs like mine that shed like crazy!
Backseat bridge car extender — this can keep your dogs safe while also keeping you safe. It prevents dogs from jumping into the front seat while you are driving. It also keeps them from falling into the car footwell.
The Ultimate Pet-Friendly Road Map — With practical tips and advice, and more than 200 breathtaking photos, you’ll feel like you have a personal tour guide to the top 49 pet friendly attractions in the United States.
Treats and Chew Toys — for my Beagles, this is a must. Chew toys and chew bones keep them entertained while on long car rides.
For the Best dog-friendly places to stay in Gulf Shores, AL, click here!
Read all about Plash Island, Paradise on Alabama's Gulf Coast
Book a Fishing Charter on Alabama’s Gulf Coast
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October 20, 2020
12 Awesome Day Trips from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama
By Michelle Segrest—Navigate Travel Adventures
If you are planning a trip to Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, Alabama for a vacation or getaway but think you may get bored of the beach, these nearby destinations offer fun-packed options the whole family will enjoy. If you are looking for a quick day trip—a vacation from the vacation—here are my 12 favorite, easy, educational, and fun day trips from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
1. Spend a Day in Pensacola, Florida (Drive from Gulf Shores: 55 minutes)
One of the most visited museums in Florida is the National Naval Aviation Museum on the base of Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida. The National Navial Aviation Museum offers something for everyone, regardless of age. One of its main attractions is a collection of more than 150 vintage aircraft. It also features themed exhibits, including the Pacific Island Experience, the World War II Carrier Exhibit, the POW Experience in Vietnam, and Naval Aviation in Space.
Equally popular with youngsters and adults are the interactive flight simulators, motion simulators, and the authentically reproduced cockpits of dozens of famous aircraft. An IMAX theater and the Blue Angels 4D theater show action-packed, interactive movies. Admission to the museum is free, but there is a small admission charge for each of the theaters. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.
You could spend an entire day at this cool museum, but there are also some other interesting sites to see in Pensacola.
The Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum is on the grounds of the Naval Air Station. Completed in 1858 and first lighted on New Year’s Day, 1859, the lighthouse boasts a first-order Fresnel lens, the most powerful available at the time. A climb up the 177 steps to the top of the tower is rewarded with panoramic views of Pensacola Pass (where Pensacola Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico), the Pensacola city skyline, the Navy Yard, and three historic forts. The Keepers’ Quarters, built in 1869, has been restored and now houses a museum.
One of four military forts designed to protect Pensacola in the 1800s, Fort Pickens is a great place for history-buffs to spend time. Located on the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fort Pickens is accessible by foot and boat and is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
For something truly unique, drive by the Pensacola Graffiti Bridge.
2. Take a Day Trip to Bellingrath Gardens and Home in Theodore, Alabama (Drive from Gulf Shores: 90 minutes)
The former country estate of Mobile Coca-Cola bottler Walter Bellingrath and his wife, Bessie, the 65-acre property includes an English Renaissance-style mansion built for the Bellingraths in 1935. It’s surrounded by green lawns and lush gardens where spectacular plantings bloom year-round. You’ll see camellias in winter, azaleas in spring, roses and hydrangeas in summer, and the famous cascading chrysanthemums in fall. The property also hosts seasonal programs and events designed to appeal to guests of all ages.
Walter Bellingrath once said “The gardens are like a beautiful woman with a different gown for each week of the year.” Bellingrath, the first Coca-Cola bottler in Alabama, originally bought the property in 1917 as a fishing camp.
You can tour the Bellingrath Home, complete with its original furnishings and Mrs. Bellingrath’s extensive collection of decorative arts. The 10,500- square-foot home was designed by prominent architect, George B. Rogers.
Bellingrath Gardens and Home is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The last tickets are sold at 4:30 p.m. daily, and the gates are locked at 5 p.m. daily. The Bellingrath Home is open for tours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tours are held each half hour and are limited to five people. Tour tickets are sold for specific tour times. The last Home tour tickets are sold at 3:30 p.m.
3. Spend a Day in Mobile, Alabama (Drive from Gulf Shores: 55 minutes)
Mobile is a port city tucked away along Mobile Bay saturated with blooming azaleas and historic Antebellum homes. This city packs a ton of history!
Your first stop should be the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. Decommissioned after World War II in a cost-cutting move by the U.S. Government, the USS Alabama was among hundreds of warships in danger of being scrapped and dismantled for their steel and other parts. Efforts by concerned private citizens, two governors, and the state legislature eventually resulted in the battleships’s return to Mobile Bay and its renovation. The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park officially opened in January 1965 – 18 years to the day after the ship was decommissioned.
Today, in addition to the battleship, which is open for tours, park attractions include the submarine USS Drum (also open for tours) and more than 25 vintage military aircraft. An onsite concession stand offers sandwiches, pizzas, and other refreshments. There is a small admission charge and it’s open every day except Christmas Day.
Mobile is also where Mardi Gras originated. It’s a true celebration packed with parades, masked balls, and even a Moon Pie drop to commemorate the New Year! The Mobile Carnival Museum highlights an entire collection of Mardi Gras memorabilia that is housed inside the historic Bernstein-Bush mansion. The museum showcases more than 300 years of Mardi Gras in the Mobile area from floats to costume design.
Voted one of the Top 15 Science Centers in the country, the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center is the only science technology center serving south Alabama, south Mississippi and northwest Florida. Exploreum visitors can experience more than 150 hands-on science adventures in three permanent galleries: Hands On Hall, the Wharf of Wonder, and My BodyWorks, the most advanced health exhibit in the nation.
The Exploreum also features large-scale, family friendly, interactive traveling exhibits, demonstrations and an IMAX theater.
4. Spend a Day in Fort Morgan, Alabama (Drive from Gulf Shores: Less than 30 minutes)
Completed in 1834, the Fort Morgan Historical Site was designed to control the main ship channel into Mobile Bay. Today, it offers panoramic views of both the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Active during four wars, Fort Morgan is best known for its role in the 1864 Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay. The loss of Fort Morgan and neighboring Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island was one of the final blows for the Confederacy.
Now a state historical site, the fort is mainly intact and is open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. An extra treat on this outing: The drive to the fort runs through part of the unspoiled Bon Secour National Refuge. The refuge, whose name means “safe harbor” in French, offers more than 7,000 acres of protected wildlife habitats for migrating birds, nesting sea turtles, and the endangered Alabama beach mouse.
The Fort Morgan Ferry landing is just steps from the Fort Morgan State Historic Site and Museum in Gulf Shores. The Mobile Bay Ferry connects Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island and allows visitors to travel with ease from one great site to another.
Traveling from Fort Morgan to Dauphin Island is a great excursion your family can enjoy together. The Mobile Bay Ferry is a quick 40-minute ride across the water to a new and interesting destination, making it an excellent day trip when you want to explore beyond Gulf Shores.
The ferry operates on a first come, first served basis and does not take reservations. Because of this, ferry operators recommend that travelers arrive at the dock 30-minutes to 1-hour prior to departure, especially during the summer months. Ensure that it is smooth sailing for your group by building enough time into your schedule for purchasing tickets and boarding.
5. Spend a Day on Dauphin Island, Alabama (Drive from Gulf Shores: 1 hour)
Standing at the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, Fort Gaines has been guarding the entrance to Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Before being seized by Northern forces near the end of the Civil War, Fort Gaines and its across-the-bay neighbor, Fort Morgan, kept the port of Mobile open to blockade runners and Confederate warships. Now a historic site, it’s open daily except for major holidays. There is a small admission charge.
Both educational and entertaining, the Sea Lab Estuarium features 31 aquariums showcasing more than 100 species of marine life, a sting ray touch pool, and other interactive exhibits. An outdoor boardwalk offers an up-close look at the animals, plants, and other natural resources that make up coastal Alabama’s four main habitats. There is a small admission charge.
History buffs will enjoy learning more about regional Civil War history at Fort Gaines, while nature-lovers will enjoy the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary. The Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary is one of the top four locations for viewing spring bird migrations in North America. The sanctuary is a safe haven for transient flocks and welcomes more than 400 species of birds each year, many of which are of the neo-tropical variety. You'll find pristine natural landscapes, miles of peaceful walking trails, and plenty of unique wildlife to look for when you visit.
6. Spend a Day in Ocean Springs, Mississippi (Drive from Gulf Shores: 1 hour, 50 minutes)
Art lovers should spend a day in Ocean Springs!
The Walter Anderson Museum of Art in Ocean Springs, Mississippi is a tiny gem of a museum dedicated to the works of painter Walter Inglis Anderson. Born in New Orleans in 1903, Anderson is known for his colorful and fanciful depictions of the plants, animals, and people of the Gulf Coast. The museum also features works by his brothers. Peter Anderson, a master potter, was the founder of Shearwater Pottery, while James Anderson was both a painter and a ceramist. In addition to its regular collections, the museum features changing exhibitions of works by other significant artists. There is a small admission charge.
Part of the Ocean Springs Art Association, The Art House is the co-op gallery and showcase of member work. Housed in a small, cozy cottage the Art House showcases a wide variety of art, pottery, jewelry and 3-dimensional art created by award-winning member artists as well as note cards and other unique gift items. It has been mentioned in Southern Living Magazine numerous times, and it draws visitors from all over the United States.
You will often find artists at work on the days that they work at the Art House. New art is rotated every four months, ensuring that new art is displayed throughout the year.
Shearwater Pottery was founded in 1928 by Peter Anderson with the support of his parents, George Walter Anderson and Annette McConnell Anderson. From the 1920s through the present day, Shearwater Pottery has produced art pottery, utilitarian ware, figurines, decorative tiles and other pottery pieces. Shearwater Pottery is high-grade hard fired earthenware intended for functional as well as decorative use. Each piece is individual and unique in nature.
The Pink Rooster – “A Gallery of Fine Art” specializes in fine local artwork of 37 local and international artists. Mediums include oil, acrylic, and watercolor paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, vintage designed apparel hand blown glassware and hand painted glassware. A full line of art supplies are sold and six-week art classes are available.
7. Spend a Day in Fairhope, Alabama (Drive from Gulf Shores: 50 minutes)
Known for its downtown, the ever-charming Fairhope is a perfect day trip from Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. In less than an hour, visitors can wander down the picturesque Fairhope Pier, and get up-close-and-personal with the birds at the park.. Spend the day perusing antique shops, plus home décor, children’s toy and clothing stores, and fashion boutiques. Take time to stop by Fairhope Brewery for a local craft beer, one of the many restaurants downtown for lunch or dinner, and Punta Clara’s Candy Kitchen or Mr. Gene’s Beans for a sweet treat.
A spot locals refer to as their town square, the Municipal Pier & Park is a wonderful space for having a family picnic under the trees, getting those feet wet on a warm summer day, or trying your hand at kitesurfing! In the summer months, there is a small fee associated with accessing the Fairhope beach just north of the Municipal Pier & Park, but the pier itself is always free. If you're lucky enough to walk this beach on the right summer morning, you might even witness an amazing natural phenomenon known as Jubilee!
The Fairhope Arts and Crafts Festival in March and the Grand Festival of Art in October are ideal ways to introduce children to their creative side and enjoy the town's many art galleries.
The Fairhope French Quarter is arguably the most charming section of town. It is a hotspot for shopping in Fairhope, featuring 12 boutique shops and galleries. The beautiful cobblestone courtyard is perfect for relaxing with friends or family. After shopping around, pop in one of the French Quarter cafes. While walking downtown, look out for big, beautiful trees! The Fairhope French Quarter is home to the largest species of crepe myrtle (also known as the Alabama Champion Tree).
Fairhope has been home to numerous influential people such as Native American Indians, the founders of the "Utopian Experiment," and Jimmy Buffett. You and your family can learn all about the intriguing history of Fairhope at the Fairhope Museum of History! Admission is free and guests can swing by between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
The Windmill Market is home to some of the best restaurants in Fairhope, AL, like MaryAnn's Deli. It's a food court-style mix of eco-friendly restaurants, grocery spots, live music, and food-related classes. Lunch is served between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. every day, but several of the market's eateries open earlier.
For a special experience, visit family owned and operated, Oak Hollow Farm, which covers more than 300 acres on the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay. Once a traditional working farm, it dates back to the early 1800s. Today, it hosts weddings, corporate functions, and other special events. It also offers plenty of fun outdoor activities: professionally guided horseback trail rides, skeet shooting, pheasant hunting, fishing in a fully-stocked pond, basketball, corn hole, horseshoes, and volleyball.
The Eastern Shore Art Center was founded as a one-room gallery in 1954 by a group of local artists and art patrons. The art center has grown into a facility with five exhibit galleries and four teaching studios. It features monthly changing exhibits in a wide range of mediums, including watercolor, acrylics, photography, pottery, and textiles.
8. Spend a Day in Foley, Alabama (Drive from Gulf Shores: 25 minutes)
The city of Foley, Alabama was named after its founder John B. Foley who arrived in the state from Chicago in the early 1900s. He used some of his own funds to construct a railway line and the first station opened in the city in 1905. Today, the same railroad station is home to the city museum.
For outdoors lovers, the city is surrounded by lush wildlife preserves, walking trails and water adventures.
From the unique, local shops and artists of Foley’s quaint and historic downtown, to intriguing museum exhibits and laid-back water adventures, this destination in beautiful coastal Alabama provides plenty of activities and sites to choose from. Take time to look through the many antique shops lining the streets of Historic Foley. After you’ve found your treasures and worked up an appetite, choose from more than 70 dining options that will satisfy any cuisine craving.
Alligator Alley opened in 2004, when owner Wes Moore decided that alligators needed a natural, protected area where they are guaranteed a haven away from danger. This fascinating gator adventure allows you to view over 450 rescued alligators, ranging from the newly-hatched to mature adults.
As alligators have lost their natural fear towards humans, you must remain at a safe distance unless under supervision. However, you will be able to see these majestic creatures basking in the Alabama sunshine, or nesting in the greenery from the viewing area.
You can spend a fragrant afternoon in Foley following the beautiful Antique Rose Trail. The pretty trail winds through Downtown Foley from Heritage Park to Berry Street and showcases hundreds of heritages rose displays of all colors and sizes. Springtime is the best time to visit as all the roses are in bloom, but you can also observe wildlife and floral displays on this mile-long trail at other times of the year too.
If you prefer to surround yourself by nature, Graham Creek Nature Preserve in Foley is home to abundant rare wildlife and plant species. Set in 500 acres of mixed forests, pine savannas and wetlands, this preserve allows visitors the opportunity to engage in many recreational activities.
History buffs can learn about the early days of Foley by venturing to the Foley Railroad Museum. Set in a restored railroad depot, it dates to the early 1900s and houses several historic displays and archives relating to the city. The exhibit showcases a quarter mile of track and features 12 different railroads, several animated sites and 3 operating double track routes.
Hidden away above a Foley pharmacy is Holmes Medical Museum. The museum is set in the location of Foley’s first hospital which was operational from the mid-1930s to 1958. Today, you can observe the old theatre, see patient rooms which have not been altered since it closed, and view a bizarre collection of medical tools and equipment.
Foley Art Centre has served the local community for almost 50 years, showcasing Alabama artists and supporting and encouraging children in creative arts. They host regular events including the popular ‘Art in the Park’ – a fine arts show for south eastern Alabama artists, and Trim-a-Tree event, where local artisans and craftspeople create one-of-a-kind ornaments, pottery and decorations to decorate Christmas trees.
Shoppers will LOVE the Tangier Outlet and can find great savings on merchandise from your favorite designer and name-brands direct from the manufacturer at stores like: Coach, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren, Talbots, White House Black Market, Nike, Chico's, Kenneth Cole, Reebok and many more. Before you travel, check out the Tanger Outlet website to find the latest Coupons & Sales Offers for Tanger Outlets in Foley. Or, when you arrive at the outlets, make your first stop Shopper Services to learn about the benefits of joining TangerClub (Tanger Club information is also available online).
9. Get Lost at Sea and Catch Some Fish
Some day trips require no driving at all. Visitors of Alabama’s Gulf Coast love having an exclusive, private charter fishing experience. I can highly recommend Team Vinson Charters, which offers full-service inshore and nearshore fishing charters and sunset cruises on Alabama's Gulf Coast including Mobile, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island, Fairhope, Spanish Fort, Daphne, Perdido Key, Dog River, Bon Secour, and Fish River.
All charters include fishing license, bottled water, tackle, gear, and all the safety equipment. Bring a light lunch and your beverages of choice. Unless you are catching and releasing, Team Vinson always cleans and bags your catch so bring a cooler. See their FAQ page for the answers to all your questions or drop them an email at teamvinsoncharters@yahoo.com.
10. Spend a Day in Biloxi, Mississippi (Drive from Gulf Shores: 2 hours)
Biloxi is a small Gulf Coast city which combines with neighboring Gulfport to form a larger metropolitan area that draws in a whole host of tourists each year. Visitors come not only for the sun and sand along the Gulf Coast beaches, RV parks, wedding venues, but also to try their luck at one of Biloxi’s numerous and famous casinos and resorts on their weekend getaway.
The Biloxi Lighthouse is a city institution, a symbol of its resolve and strength in the face of the challenges it has seen over time including, most recently, Hurricane Katrina. The lighthouse was built of cast iron in 1848, one of the first of its kind in the American South. Biloxi Lighthouse was a private entity from 1848 to 1939, and it was famous for having been operated by several different female lighthouse keepers. The building was then taken over by the Coast Guard, but later transferred to the City of Biloxi. Hurricane Katrina did significant damage to the Biloxi Lighthouse, as the waves it caused battered a full third of the structure. The lighthouse was restored and reopened to the public in 2010. Guided tours are held daily.
Biloxi’s Mardi Gras Museum is a tribute to the Fat Tuesday holiday that plays such an important role in the life of the Gulf Coast. The small museum is placed inside the historic Magnolia Hotel, which itself is an interesting example of regional architecture. On display are informational placards that discuss the history of and interesting facts about the Mardi Gras holiday and its celebration. However, the most impressive aspect of the Mardi Gras Museum is its costume display.
The Biloxi Tour Train is an open-air train that takes passengers on a daily ride throughout the city’s historic district. Formerly known as the Biloxi Shrimp Tour Train and referred to by locals simply as the Shrimp Train, the Biloxi Tour Train has been operating around Biloxi since its establishment in 1961. The tour includes not only a ride around the city’s historic parts, but also a full program of information about Biloxi’s unique culture and historical roots. Highlights of the tour, which is run by city natives, include the Biloxi Lighthouse and the Live Oaks.
The Beau Rivage is a prime destination for visitors to Biloxi. This resort incorporates everything one needs for a relaxing and entertaining stay in the area, as it provides not only accommodation, but also a complete complex of dining, gambling, nightlife, and entertainment options.
Harrah’s Gulf Coast is a resort that includes a large casino, pool and spa, several dining options, and even a concert venue. Known as the Great Lawn, this venue faces the coastline and provides an all-ages-welcome space for musical performances by well-known acts each Saturday night.
As one of the largest cities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Biloxi was hit especially hard by Hurricane Katrina. The memorial on Biloxi’s main street is a fitting tribute to this massive tragedy and the impact it had on the community. The Hurricane Katrina Memorial consists of several parts—one plaque describes the devastation the storm brought on the area, while another depicts a map that further illustrates the hurricane’s impact. A second piece of the memorial, which rises a symbolic 12 feet, the height the water level reached during the storm, lists the names of those who died or went missing during Katrina.
The Jefferson Davis Presidential Library is a large complex that includes the residence and presidential library of the only president of the Confederate States of America, which existed from 1861 to 1865 during the United States Civil War. It is part of a Biloxi estate known as Beauvoir. Beauvoir was Jefferson Davis’s home during his postwar retirement.
In addition to being a draw for casino lovers and beachcombers, Biloxi also has features the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, a prime example of the town’s thriving art scene, which focuses largely on American art. In particular, WAMA celebrates the work of its namesake, Walter Inglis Anderson, a Gulf Coast native who is lauded as one of the finest American painters of the 20th century.
11. Spend a Day in New Orleans, Louisiana (Drive from Gulf Shores: 3 hours)
It’s difficult to see ALL of New Orleans in just one day, but if you want to take the drive and get a small taste of this iconic Gulf Coast city, here are some ideas for taking in a little of the culture an atmosphere of the Crescent City.
Tours of the French Quarter or the Garden District will easily fill the day of those who love to stroll, while Chalmette Battlefield and The National WWII Museum provide entertainment for any history buff. For a unique glimpse of the Crescent City's culture, explore one of the famous cemeteries, sign up for a plantation tour or pay a visit to the Backstreet Cultural Museum. When it comes time for souvenir shopping, check out the antiques stores along Magazine Street in the Garden District.
If you want an authentic New Orleans experience more removed from the touristy areas of Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, head to the lively Frenchmen Street. A popular spot for locals, Frenchmen Street is a four-block stretch of live music, bars, restaurants, night clubs and art galleries. If you are not a night owl, the Palace Market (open daily 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.) is a shopping haven where locals sell homemade art and jewelry.
Located in historic Uptown New Orleans, Audubon Zoo cares for animals from around the globe, engaging educational programs, and hands-on animal encounters. Unique natural habitats such as the award-winning Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle showcase the relationship between people and nature. Audubon Zoo is consistently one of the country’s top-ranked zoos, voted as one of the top ten zoos in the country in the USA Today “10Best” reader poll and ranked as one of the top things to do in New Orleans.
12. Spend a Day in Destin, Florida (Drive from Gulf Shores: 2 hours, 10 minutes)
Destin is a Gulf Coast city in Florida’s western panhandle that lies between Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach to the west and Panama City to the east. The area is referred to as Florida’s Emerald Coast and is well-known for its gleaming beaches, abundant sport fish, and long stretches of relatively undeveloped shoreline that are pleasant changes from many of the state’s more commercial beaches.
But since you can enjoy beautiful beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, here are some other things to do on a day trip to Destin.
Miramar Beach is just east of Destin on the long spit of land that separates the Gulf of Mexico from Choctawhatchee Bay, and the Market Shops on Emerald Coast Parkway are some of the area’s swankiest retail shopping destinations. The shops include more than 15 vendors selling everything from art and jewelry to lingerie and bathing suits.
There are a variety of dining options that include pizza, seafood, and French cuisine. During the cooler fall and winter months, there’s often live entertainment in the afternoons and evenings.
Located just a few minutes west of downtown Destin, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is one of those rare vacation destinations that’s engaging, entertaining, and educational. The park includes gators, snakes, stingrays, and even penguins. Keep in mind that general admission doesn’t entitle visitors to all the park’s activities and attractions, so be ready to spend a bit more to see and do some extra things. The park is open daily, and though it’s not cheap, most visitors find it good value.
The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is one of those free area attractions that’s the perfect place to spend a few hours when funds are in short supply. The boardwalk stretches along the harbor and is a favorite evening destination for those looking to capture a remarkable Florida sunset. The area includes a variety of shops and plenty of restaurants—many of them offer stunning water views and food and drink deals. The boardwalk hosts many annual events, including the Destin Seafood Festival and an annual fishing rodeo.
Located on Stahlman Avenue, the Destin History and Fishing Museum is a conveniently located attraction that typically takes no more than an hour of visitor’s valuable time. Destin has always been a popular spot for saltwater game fisherman and is home to one of the largest commercial fishing fleets in the Sunshine State as well. The museum focuses on both commercial and recreational fishing, and the exhibits include fishing equipment, photographs, and first-hand accounts of fisherman from eras past. There’s a huge display of preserved fish caught over the years too, and some antique rods and reels, some of which once belonged to Ernest Hemingway.
The Air Force Armament Museum features dozens of restored warbirds and a huge variety of plane-dropped munitions spanning the decades. It’s a fascinating place that’s a big hit with visitors of all stripes. Most guests spend a few hours, and there’s a great onsite gift shop too.
Any of these awesome day trips, or a clever combination, offer something special on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Can you recommend a fun day trip from the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area that I may have missed? If so, please leave a comment so I can add it to my list of recommendations!
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October 14, 2020
10 Things to Do Outdoors in Decatur, Alabama
By Michelle Segrest, Navigate Travel Adventures
Outdoor enthusiasts love living in Decatur, Alabama and the towns in surrounding Morgan County (including Hartselle and West Morgan). With a mild year-around climate and friendly small-town atmosphere, outdoor lovers can find many opportunities to benefit from all that Decatur has to offer.
Here are 10 things to do in Decatur, Alabama if you love the outdoors:
Decatur is home to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
Established July 7, 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 35,000-acre Wheeler Wildlife Refuge protects various wildlife species, including thousands of wintering waterfowl each year along with the habitat of 12 federally-listed endangered or threatened species.
Originally established as a refuge and breeding ground for migratory birds and other wildlife, making it the destination for thousands of bird watchers each year. Decatur-Morgan County is part of the Central Loop of the North Alabama Birding Trail and is host to the annual North Alabama Birding Festival.
The North Alabama Birding Trail features more than 50 designated stations that allow visitors to observe birds in their native habitats. Eight of the 18 stations are within the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge.
Read More at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service site.
Wheeler Wildlife Refuge provides for a wide spectrum of wildlife, in addition to the 295 species of migratory birds, it is home to 115 species of fish, 74 species of reptiles and amphibians, 47 species of mammals, 38 species of freshwater mussels, and 26 species of freshwater snails. Its diverse habitat includes deep river channels, tributary creeks, tupelo swamps, open backwater embayments, bottomland hardwoods, pine uplands, and agricultural fields.
2. Decatur offers opportunities for fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and water sports.
With several canoe launches and six public boat launches, the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge offers visitors and residents the chance to spend a quiet afternoon immersed in nature.
The nearby Sipsey River in Bankhead National Forest, often described as a “wild and scenic river,” is a popular spot for canoeing and is best in the spring and late winter.
The Ingalls Harbor features spacious launch ramps (up to 10 boats at a time), a 1,088-linear-foot dock, lighted parking and ramps, and 158 paved truck/trailer parking spaces. An events pavilion seats up to 1,200. It is located at 701 Market Street, NW.
Contact: 256-341-4930
Local marinas include:
Riverwalk Marina, located on the north bank of the Tennessee River, includes private slips and boathouses, public launching ramps; vending area, and dock side gas/oil. 256-340-9170
Brickyard Landing is at the South bank of the Tennessee River. It includes 240 dry-docks, boat repair, waterfront marina store, dock side gas/oil. There is no public boat ramp. 256-350-1449
Jay’s Landing Marina is at the South bank of the Tennessee River. It includes wet-slips, vending and public launching for a fee. 256-350-4722
To apply for Hunting, Fishing, or Boating Licenses, visit the Morgan County Courthouse.
Morgan County Courthouse
302 Lee Street, NE
Decatur, AL 35601
256-351-4730
Decatur is a great location with nearby access to other popular nearby lakes, including:
Wheeler Lake, which is the second-largest lake located along the Tennessee River. Spanning nearly 60 miles with a surface area of more than 67,000 acres, this man-made impoundment was created by the Tennessee Valley Authority in the late 1930s for hydroelectric power generation and regional flood control. It is now a popular recreation site in the Decatur region for the more than four million visitors who attend the lake annually for boating, fishing, hunting, and water sports. , partaking in seasonal outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, wildlife watching, and water sports. The lake is located adjacent to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. It has a visitor center and areas for overnight camping and picnicking.
Lake Guntersville is located in North Alabama between Bridgeport and Guntersville. It is Alabama’s largest lake with 69,000 acres and stretching 75 miles from Nickajack Dam to Guntersville Dam. There are free boat ramps and private marinas along the lake’s perimeter. Fishing, boating, camping, hunting, and eagle watching are popular in the area. Lake Guntersville is home to quality angling for a variety of fish, including large-mouth bass, bream, blue gill, redear sunfish, longear sunfish, catfish, crappie, and sauger. Kayak anglers also enjoy this lake because of the many boat ramps.
3. Decatur offers many hiking and biking trails and historic walking tours.
If you want to experience nature first hand, check out the hiking and biking trails that crisscross through the Wheeler Wildlife Refuge Center and Point Mallard. Hiking/biking guides are available at the Decatur-Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau (719 6th Ave SE). You can also pick up free walking/driving tour brochures at the Old State Bank Building and the Decatur Morgan County Tourism Office (719 6th Avenue SE).
Here are some of Decatur’s popular hiking/biking trails and walking tours:
Take the Downtown Turtle Trail and find the 10 bronze turtles located along Decatur‘s historic 2nd Avenue. Learn about the significant places and events that helped make Downtown Decatur what it is today along the way. A map of the trail and more information is available in the Downtown Turtle Trail brochure.
Check out the Trail of Tears Walking Tour to see the forced removal of Native American tribes from tribal lands as they passed through Decatur, Alabama.
The Amen Trail is located in Decatur and throughout Morgan County. Many of the churches are at least 100 years old, on its original site, and still hold services today. This self-guided tour recognizes churches that define the heart of Decatur and Morgan County’s rich and diverse cultural and spiritual heritage.Two of the 19 churches listed on the Amen Trail are also a part of North Alabama’s Hallelujah Trail, which was published in The National Geographic’s Driving Tours of Appalachia.The Amen Trail begins at St. John’s Episcopal Church (202 Gordon Dr. SE) and ends at Lacey’s Springs United Methodist Church (1036 Hwy. 36, Lacey Springs).
A Walking Tour of Historic Decatur takes you through Old Decatur and the New Albany Historic Districts, located near downtown off the southern bank of the Tennessee River. It boasts the largest concentration of Victorian-era cottages and bungalows in Alabama.
The Civil War Walking Tour is located in the Old Decatur and New Albany Historic Districts, just off the southern bank of the Tennessee River near downtown Decatur.
4. Decatur is an extraordinarily active place for youth and adult sports and recreation.
Sports enthusiasts will love living in Decatur and Morgan County. Facilities around the area cater to a variety of sports including cycling, soccer, softball, baseball, basketball, hockey, golf, fishing, tennis, and cross country. Decatur-Morgan County even has hot air ballooning.
The county hosts numerous tournaments throughout the year including the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Softball tournaments, Amateur Softball Association tournaments, and the Youth Alabama Basketball of America Championships.
Contact Decatur Parks and Recreation:
610 4th Avenue, SE
Decatur, Alabama 35601
256-341-4930
The Parks and Recreation Department operates three recreation community centers, one outdoor and one indoor swimming pool, 28 parks that include 19 developed playgrounds, 44 lighted tennis courts, walking trails, a splash pad, and numerous lighted and unlighted softball and baseball fields.
In addition, the department operates Wilson Morgan Softball Complex, Jimmy Johns Tennis Complex, Jack Allen Recreation Complex, and Point Mallard Park. The Jack Allen Recreation Complex is the newest facility and boasts an award-winning 27-acre laser-graded and irrigated soccer/football venue with sub-grade drainage and television-quality lighting.
Morgan County has its own Disc Golf Course located in Hartselle at Sparkman Park. This is a growing sport in which the object of the game is to traverse a course from beginning to end in the fewest number of throws of the disc. The course was established in 2006 with 18 Mach5 holes.
Please also visit Morgan County Parks & Recreation as well as nearby Hartselle Parks & Recreation.
Decatur even has opportunities for those who enjoy archery. The Decatur Community Archery Park was developed through a partnership between the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Tennessee Valley Authority, U.S. Fish and Wildlife service, Wheeler Wildlife Refuge, the Archery Trade Association and the City of Decatur.
The park features adult and youth known distance targets from 15-50 yards and 5-20 yards, respectively. A 12-foot-high elevated platform provides bow hunters with an opportunity to simulate hunting conditions at targets from 10-40 yards. There is also a 20 target walk through course for archers to shoot at targets at unknown distances.
The Decatur Parks and Recreation Department offers archery classes and other activities as part of their commitment to increase involvement in archery at the local level.
5. You don’t have to belong to a country club to play golf in Decatur, Alabama.
The Decatur-Morgan County area has four public 18-hole golf courses, ranging from the award-winning Point Mallard Golf Course, named one of the best public golf courses in Alabama, to the resort-like setting of the Quail Creek Golf Course. The oldest course in the Decatur area is the Burningtree Country Club which was designed by George W. Cobb, ASGCA and opened in 1966. The longest course is Canebrake Club, which is 7,110 yards. Southern Gayles Golf Course is rated the best course near Decatur.
Here are 7 golf courses near Decatur, Alabama:
Point Mallard Golf Course, Point Mallard Course
18 holes over 6,988 yards with a par of 72 (Municipal)
2600A Point Mallard Dr SE
Decatur, AL 35601-6743
(256) 341-4925
5 miles from the center of Decatur.
Burningtree Country Club, Burningtree Course
18 holes over 7,005 yards with a par of 72 (Private)
2521 Burningtree Dr SE
Decatur, AL 35603-5138
(256) 355-5982
8 miles from the center of Decatur.
Canebrake Club, Canebrake Course
18 holes over 7,110 yards with a par of 72 (Private)
23015 Founders Cir
Athens, AL 35613-8129
(256) 232-2412
12 miles from the center of Decatur.
Sunset Landing Golf Course, Sunset Landing Course
18 holes over 6,803 yards with a par of 72 (Municipal)
346 James Record Rd SW
Huntsville, AL 35824-1514
(256) 464-5050
14 miles from the center of Decatur.
Chriswood Golf Course, Chriswood Course
18 holes over 5,074 yards with a par of 70 (Public)
26181 Nick Davis Rd
Athens, AL 35613
(256) 232-9759
16 miles from the center of Decatur.
Quail Creek Resort & Conference Center, Quail Creek Course
18 holes over 6,056 yards with a par of 71 (Public)
233 Quail Creek Dr
Hartselle, AL 35640-6952
(888) 784-5033
18 miles from the center of Decatur.
Southern Gayles Golf Course, Southern Gayles Course
18 holes over 6,757 yards with a par of 72 (Public)
22230 Mooresville Rd
Athens, AL 35613-3808
(256) 232-9888
20 miles from the center of Decatur.
6. The Decatur-Morgan County Area has eight public parks.
With lighted walking paths, family outdoor fun can be found throughout the Decatur area.
Adventure Park (Central Parkway/Beltline Road/Sandlin Road) offers a playground, lighted shelter, six tennis courts, six softball fields, soccer field, picnic areas and a one and a half-mile lighted walking trail.
Delano Park (Prospect Drive/6th AVE/Somerville Road/Gordon Drive) is the oldest park in the city of Decatur. The park features the historic WPA Rose Garden that was reconstructed in recent years and a Splash Pad, Trail of History, tennis courts, playground and picnic shelter.
Founder’s Park is a two-acre green space fronting the historic 1833 Old State Bank. The park was developed to honor the events and leaders that have shaped Decatur’s history and provides an important link between the Old State Bank, the historic downtown and residential districts, the riverfront, and other local attractions.
Frazier Park (309 Cherry St. NE), located at the corner of Line and Ferry Streets in the Old Decatur Historic District, features the Daikin Japanese garden. The authentic Japanese Tea Garden was given to the City of Decatur by the Daikin American Corporation. Plans are underway at Frazier Park to add a traditional English Garden.
Hospitality Park is located on Highway 31 marking the north entrance into the city of Decatur. The park offers bird sighting opportunities and picnic areas. The park is a favorite local fishing area.
The John Mark Stallings S.N.A.P. Playground was built specifically to be accessible by all children, including those with disabilities. The free playground is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The park’s splash pad is open through October. The park is located at 406 Nanceford Road behind the Civic Center in Hartselle.
Rhodes Ferry Park (Harborview/Market/Oak) is on the banks of the Tennessee River. Summertime Concerts by the River and other local events are held in the park. Rhodes Ferry Park features a playground, picnic shelters and lighted walks throughout the park.
Sparkman Park is located just south of Decatur in Hartselle. The park offers a public swimming pool, baseball and softball fields, picnic areas, playgrounds and a lighted walking trail.
7. Decatur is a great place for horse enthusiasts.
The Joe Wheeler Wildlife Refuge has numerous gravel roads that meander through the grounds and allow horseback riders to see the area’s wildlife. Riders can also find great trails through the nearby Bankhead National Forest. Truck and horse trailer parking is provided at Owl Creek Horse Camp in the Bankhead National Forest.
Thousands of racking horse trainers and fans come to Morgan County twice a year for two of the sport’s biggest events. Hosted by the Racking Horse Breeders Association of America, The Spring Celebration, held in April, kicks off the racking horse show season. In September, The World Celebration closes the season with the crowning of the World Grand Champions for each class. The Spring Celebration and The World Celebration are held at Morgan County Celebration Arena (67 Horse Center Road) in Priceville.
8. Decatur has many family-friendly campgrounds.
If you like to camp, Decatur is the place to be. Here are a few options for family-friendly camping.
The Celebration Arena & Grounds is located just 2 miles from I-65. This year-ound campground on the grounds of the Morgan County Celebration Arena features 69 camp sites. 67 Horse Center Rd, Decatur, AL 35603, (256) 584-6725.
The Point Mallard Campground has 210 shaded camp sites located on 25-wooded acres. The “Good Sam Park” campground is full of amenities including three covered pavilions with restrooms and showers, enclosed meeting facility, and playground. The sites also have water, electricity, a picnic table, and charcoal grill. In addition, 115 sites have sewer hookups. The campground is within walking distance of Point Mallard’s many attractions. 2600 Point Mallard Dr SE, (256) 341-4826
The Quail Creek RV Resort is located outside the 600-acre Quail Creek Resort and Conference Center in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Most sites are 35’ x 95’ and have all-weather, pull-through and equipped with amp service, water, sewer, and WiFi. The bathhouse features full laundry and bath/shower suites. 233 Quail Creek Dr, Hartselle, (256) 784-5033
Jay Landings RV Park has 32 sites. Ten (10) of the sites are on the banks of the Tennessee River. It has 50/30/20 amp power, water, sewer connection, and free wireless internet connection. A bath house, laundry facilities, boat ramp and fishing are available. Jay Landings is close to dining, shopping centers and only 1 mile from the Ingalls Harbor where the area’s fishing tournaments are held. 1600 AL-20, Decatur, (256) 350-4722
9. Hunting opportunities are abundant in Decatur, Alabama.
A variety of wildlife, including turkey, whitetail deer, and waterfowl can provide many hours of sporting pleasure for the hunting enthusiast.
The Alabama Department of Conservation, Game & Fish Division, regulates seasons, bag limits, and license fees for deer, turkey and small game. Hunting licenses are available throughout Morgan County at many sporting goods stores and from the License Commissioner (256-351-4770) at the Morgan County Courthouse in Decatur. Licenses, complete permit requirements and state hunting regulations are available from the License Unit, Wildlife & Freshwater Fisheries Division, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources by calling 1-888- 848-6887 or online at www.dcnr.state.al.us.
Successfully completing an approved hunter education course is mandatory for all first-time hunting license buyers born on or after August 1, 1977. Hunting licenses are required for residents 16 years or older and under 65 years of age and non-residents 16 years of age and older.
Check out these local hunting spots:
Bankhead National Forest, located just southwest of Morgan County, offers 180,000 acres of natural wildlife habitat and recreation areas. The forest also includes Alabama’s first National Wilderness Area (Sipsey Wilderness) that has more than 26,000 acres of untouched forest. Hunting, as well as, camping, fishing and hiking are permitted in the Sipsey but motorized vehicles of any kind, including all-terrain vehicles, are not allowed. Bankhead is a popular destination for turkey and white tail deer hunting. For complete information on hunting in Bankhead National Forest contact USDA-Forest Service at (205) 489-5111.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is Alabama’s oldest and largest national refuge. Public hunting on Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is permitted on approximately 18,000 acres. Specific hunting dates are established each year for squirrel, raccoon, possum, rabbit, quail and deer. Hunting is allowed Monday- Saturday. For complete hunting guidelines on the refuge, contact: Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, 256-350-6639 or visit www.wheeler.fws.gov.
10. Decatur has embraced the free, family-friendly activity of Geocaching.
Using the ever-increasingly popular technology of GPS mapping systems, Geocaching connects individuals from around the world in a modern day treasure hunt. The sport of Geocaching, much like a traditional scavenger hunt, allows players to create caches around the world and share their location coordinates for others to find using their GPS units.
Caches, including numerous ones located in Decatur and Morgan County, are listed on websites such as Geocaching.com. Caches contain at least a logbook to track the cache’s visitors, and may contain other objects such as maps, books, software, or even money. Not all caches contain treasures.
Learn more about the fun family adventure of Geocaching – What is it, how does it work, and what do you find?
Decatur has joined the geocaching trend by hiding several caches throughout the city. The caches are located at some of the city’s favorite attractions including the Civil War Walking Tour, the historic Princess Theatre for the Performing Arts, and the Carnegie Visual Arts Center.
To participate, download a copy of the Decatur Geocaching Passport, or pick one up at the Decatur-Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau, located at 719 6th Avenue SE. Next, visit Geocaching.com to get the coordinates for the seven geocaching sites included in the Passport.
IF YOU ARE AN OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST AND WANT TO LIVE IN DECATUR OR MORGAN COUNTY, CONTACT PATTI LAMBERT!If you like this article about the best things to do outdoors in Decatur, Alabama, please PIN IT!
October 9, 2020
20 Best Travel Books—Sweet Home Alabama
By Michelle Segrest, Navigate Travel Adventures from #myofficetoday
I love to travel and have visited six of the seven continents (Antarctica is at the top of my bucket list). But no matter where I travel in the world, there is no place like home! I am proud to a true Southern girl from Sweet Home Alabama! I often encourage people to travel to this great American state. It is full of rich history, about which countless books have been written. However, this post is about travel—so, here are some of my favorite travel books about Alabama that may inspire your wanderlust!
What’s Great About Alabama? (Our Great States)—By Jamie KallioWhat's so great about Alabama? Find out the top ten sites to see or things to do in the Yellowhammer State!
Explore Alabama's warm ocean coast, museums, and rich history. The Alabama by Map feature shows where you'll find all the places covered in the book. A special section provides quick state facts such as the state motto, capital, population, animals, foods, and more. Take a fun-filled tour of all there is to discover in Alabama.
2. Exploring Wild Alabama: A Guide to the State’s Publicly Accessible Natural Areas—By Kenneth M. Wills and Dr. L.J. DavenportExploring Wild Alabama is an exceptionally detailed guide to the most beautiful natural destinations in the state. From the rocky outcrops of the Appalachian plateaus to the sugar-white beaches of the Gulf Coast’s Orange Beach and Dauphin Island, Alabama offers a wealth of remarkable sites to explore by car or canoe, bicycle or motorcycle, or on foot.
Intrepid explorers Kenneth M. Wills and L. J. Davenport divide Alabama into eleven geographic regions that feature state parks and preserves, national monuments and forests, wildlife management areas, Nature Conservancy and Forever Wild properties, botanical gardens and arboreta, as well as falls, caverns, and rock cliffs. Exploring Wild Alabama provides detailed site entries to one hundred and fifty destinations. Each section is beautifully illustrated with color photographs and area maps.
Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking for something different, Alabama Off the Beaten Path shows you the Yellowhammer State you never knew existed.
Uncover the roots of the civil rights movement at the Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery
Tour the state's network of limestone caves , like Cathedral Caverns in Woodville
Soak up the sun on the sugar-white sands of Alabama's Gulf Shores
4. 100 Things to Do in Alabama Before You Die—By Mary Johns WilsonThis comprehensive itinerary explores the scenery, restaurants, historic spots, tourist gems, and everything in between, that makes Alabama a great place to visit and an even better place to live. This book provides a road map of everything to see and do in the great state of Alabama.
5. 100 Things to Do in Birmingham Before You Die—By Verna Gates100 Things to Do in Birmingham Before You Die is a delightful, page-turning book that captures stories and moments that even lifelong residents of the Magic City may have missed. The book includes a list of the most authentic and unique Birmingham attractions and hotspots including historical and modern recommendations. It is an “everyman’s guide” to Alabama’s largest city.
6. Five-Star Trails: Birmingham: Your Guide to the Area's Most Beautiful Hikes—By Thomas SpencerIn the first part of the 21st century, Birmingham is building again on its natural resources, but this time it’s not to fire steel-making smokestacks. Instead, where railroads ran and mines once burrowed into mountains, the healed landscape is being repurposed for hiking and biking. New and expanding venues around the city are providing more opportunities not only to get outside and exercise but also to appreciate the labor and industry that built this part of Alabama.
In Five-Star Trails: Birmingham, local author Thomas Spencer leads readers to some of the best hikes around the city. Within a short drive from Birmingham, you can find yourself on an Appalachian mountain peak or on the banks of the Cahaba River as it broadens to snake through the Coastal Plain. You can visit old-growth forest in the Sipsey Wilderness or hike down into the “Grand Canyon of the East” at Little River Canyon. And that's only the start. Across this landscape, you’ll find a level of diversity of plant and animal species, some rare and endangered, that rivals anywhere in North America.
Become an "Alabama Expert" with historically accurate and tour-able sites in all of the 67 counties of Alabama.
Read all about the amazing stories, historical oddities and fascinating tidbits from the Yellowhammer State.
The Kindle version has links to almost all the sites in the book as well as a full index.
8. This Is My South: The Essential Travel Guide to the Southern States—By Caroline EubanksYou may think you know the South for its food, its people, its past, and its stories, but if there's one thing that's certain, it's that the region tells far more than one tale. It is ever-evolving, open to interpretation, steeped in history and tradition, yet defined differently based on who you ask.
This Is My South inspires the reader to explore the Southern States--Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia--like never before. No other guide pulls together these states into one book in quite this way with a fresh perspective on can't-miss landmarks, off the beaten path gems, tours for every interest, unique places to sleep, and classic restaurants. So come see for yourself and create your own experiences along the way!
Are you excited about planning your next trip? Do you want to try something new? Would you like some guidance from a local? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this Greater Than a Tourist book is for you. Greater Than a Tourist- Alabama, United States, by Cyndi Owens Nelson, offers the inside scoop on Alabama. Most travel books tell you how to travel like a tourist. Although there is nothing wrong with that, as part of the Greater Than a Tourist series, this book will give you travel tips from someone who has lived at your next travel destination.
In these pages, you will discover advice that will help you throughout your stay. This book will not tell you exact addresses or store hours but instead will give you excitement and knowledge from a local that you may not find in other smaller print travel books.
10. Hiking Alabama: A Guide to the State's Greatest Hiking Adventures (State Hiking Guides Series)—By Joe CuhajThe premier guide to 51 of the greatest hikes in Alabama. This one-of-a-kind guide to the "State of Surprises" takes hikers to the summits of the last of the Appalachian Mountain chain, the deep and wild canyons and rivers of Central Alabama, and the pristine white beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. Inside readers will find detailed maps, accurate route profiles showing the ups and downs of each hike, tips on equipment, trip planning, and hiking with dogs and children, accurate directions, difficulty ratings, trail contacts, and more.
11. Explorer's Guide 50 Hikes in Alabama (Explorer's 50 Hikes)—By Johnny MolloyA hike for every interest and ability! Alabama has so many great hikes to offer, including those in national and state parks and forests and in national wildlife refuges. In this book, the emphasis is on the most scenic destinations and unique places that help make Alabama so beautiful, like the rock formations of the Wall of Jericho, or the dunes of Bon Secour. Many hikes described here are off-the-beaten-path treks to lesser-known sites such as Needles Eye and Blue Spring; they show visitors the state’s wide range of beauty and biodiversity. Others take place at various spots along the Pinhoti Trail, the master path through Alabama’s mountains. Black-and-white photographs and maps
12. The Old Federal Road in Alabama: An Illustrated Guide—By Kathryn H. Braund, Gregory A. Waselkov, and Raven M. ChristopherThe first half of The Old Federal Road in Alabama: An Illustrated Guide offers a narrative history that includes brief accounts of the construction of the road, the experiences of historic travelers, and descriptions of major changes to the road over time. The authors vividly reconstruct the course of the road in detail and make use of a wealth of well-chosen illustrations. Along the way they give attention to the very terrain it traversed, bringing to life what traveling the road must have been like and illuminating its story in a way few others have ever attempted.
The second half of the volume is divided into three parts—Eastern, Central, and Southern—and serves as a modern traveler’s guide to the Federal Road. This section includes driving tours and maps, highlighting historical sites and surviving portions of the old road and how to visit them.
A travel guide through postcards. At the start of the 20th century, Birmingham was one of the fastest growing cities in the South, sometimes referred to as the "Magic City." It began as a town located at the intersection of two railroads and then quickly expanded and took in neighboring communities. Around this time, photographers traveled around the United States taking photographs of towns and cities and turning the photographs into postcards. The postcards collected here show historic Birmingham's downtown, hospitals, parks, communities, schools, hotels, and industries. These images serve as a record of everyday life in this bustling Southern city.
14. Away for the Weekend: Southeast—Revised and Updated Edition: Great Getaways for Every Season in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee—By Eleanor BermanThe Away for the Weekend series has sold more than 200,000 copies. This thorough update of Away for the Weekend: Southeast presents weekend itineraries for every season of the year in five popular southeast vacation states, including the great state of Alabama. The travel book about Alabama includes maps and illustrations.
15. Headwaters: A Journey on Alabama Rivers First Edition—By Beth Maynor Young and John C. HallHeadwaters is a breathtaking portrait of Alabama rivers. From their primal seepages in the Appalachian highlands or along the broad Chunnenuggee Hills, Alabama’s rivers carve through the rocky uplands and down the Fall Line rapids, then ease across the coastal plain to their eventual confluence with the Gulf of Mexico.
Beth Maynor Young’s 155 full-color photographs constitute art through a lens; the colors, the light, and the angles all converge for a tender praise of her subject. Her stunning visuals are supported by tantalizing captions and introductory text from John C. Hall, a master field trip leader. Together, they tell a proud story of the native beauty and complexity of these Alabama watercourses that shepherd fully 20% of the nation’s fresh water to sea.
The intimate close-up of verdant mosses or pebbled beaches pulls one into their space just as surely as does a sweeping scene of a watershed valley or a sparkling sunset over water. We all become eager listeners and observers on this guided “paddle to the Gulf,” drinking in the peace, delight, and beauty offered by the experience. At the end, we know we won’t be the same as before beginning the journey.
16. Best Tent Camping: Alabama: Your Car-Camping Guide to Scenic Beauty, the Sounds of Nature, and an Escape from Civilization Paperback—by Joe CuhajBest Tent Camping: Alabama is your guide to the 50 best tent-camping sites in the Heart of Dixie. Whether you prefer the pristine white beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. or the mountains and canyons of the Tennessee Valley, or something in-between. Alabama has it all. The guide takes you to the most beautiful, yet lesser known, of the state's campsites, guaranteeing you a peaceful retreat. Each guidebook entry provides the latest maps of the grounds; each entry also alerts you to the best sites within the facility to ensure a rewarding and relaxing visit.
The guidebook's campsite ratings on beauty, privacy, spaciousness, quietness, security, and cleanliness let you know whether or not each campground is the one you seek at any particular time. In addition, each site entry has complete contact and registration information, operating hours, and a list of restrictions. Directions to the site come complete with GPS coordinates to put you at the main gate.
17. Alabama Canoe Rides and Float Trips Paperback—By John FosheeJohn Foshee’s popular and informative Alabama Canoe Rides and Float Trips has been a favorite of canoeing enthusiasts since 1975, providing a detailed guide to 102 canoe trips on the Cahaba River and 40 other creeks and rivers within the state. The trips highlighted in the book range from 3½ to 14 miles in length, with difficulty factors varying from leisurely float trips to Class 4 rapids.
This handy guide will assist beginning and expert canoeists in the selection of and preparation for a variety of float experiences. The author gives suggestions for river safety and makes recommendations for equipment. In addition, he points out major danger areas and obstacles that may be encountered and includes information on river access and use of topographical maps. An appendix contains brief descriptions of the rides, including their put-ins and take-outs, and follows the general format of the individual trip descriptions.
Motorcycling Alabama is a much-needed guidebook for one of the most beautiful states to explore on two wheels. From the rocky outcrops of the Appalachian plateau to the sugar-white beaches and teal waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama is a rider’s paradise.
David Haynes offers fifty ride loops of between 75 and 150 miles in length throughout every region of the state. The start and stop points for each ride are identical and easy to locate. This handy guide, which is designed to fit in a tank bag, features both streetbike and dual-sport rides. Also included are detailed, color-coded maps of the routes and turn-by-turn directions. Stunning full-color photographs accompany each ride description, highlighting scenes and points of interest along the way. There are introductory chapters on motorcycle safety, gear, and the use of global positioning devices, as well as pointers on motorcycle camping. The companion website, motorcyclingalabama.info, offers sample rides and downloadable GPS codes for all fifty rides, and hosts an author blog.
Motorcycle touring is one of the fastest-growing outdoor recreational pursuits in the country. For both the in-state and out-of-state motorcycle enthusiast, Motorcycling Alabama is a valuable and complete guide to a state rich in diverse types of scenery and with many unsung treasures yet to be discovered. Published in cooperation with the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum, Birmingham.
19. Paddling Alabama: Kayak and Canoe the State’s Greatest Waterways—By Joe Cuhaj and Curt BurdickFrom the Appalachian highlands in the north to the Gulf Coast, this guide offers paddling opportunities ranging from classic whitewater rapids to meandering rivers, quiet lakes, and saltwater estuaries. Join authors Joe Cuhaj and Curt Burdick for a statewide tour of Alabama's premier paddling destinations for the canoeist and kayaker. Each destination is described and mapped in detail, with information on put-in points and take-outs, water conditions, and flora and fauna. Sidebars and at-a-glance data highlight local history, seasonal attractions and cultural events, restaurants, paddlesports organizations, and much more.
20. Weekend Getaways in Alabama—By Joan BroermanWeekend Getaways in Alabama provides everything the weekend traveler needs to explore the great state of Alabama, including complete contact information, clear directions, and maps.
Entries give not only information about great attractions, lodging, eateries, and more, but also complete addresses and telephone numbers, so trip planning couldn't be easier!
BONUS—This is not a travel book, but it’s all about Alabama and one that I can highly recommend!
A Storm Came Up—By Doug SegrestThey grew up together, on the same street separated by a half-dozen homes, yet they lived a world apart. Braxton Freeman dreams of a good college education, blonde, blue-eyed girls and a safe, secure future. Moses Burks just wants to go somewhere else fast, to a place where he would no longer be judged by skin color. In the summer of 1963 in a small, East Alabama town, Brax Freeman and Moses Burks find themselves caught in a vicious crossfire between George Wallace, the KKK, state troopers and memories of a grisly murder they witnessed as youths. Neither Brax, Moses nor the town of Takasaw will ever be the same.
Click here to read about my home on Plash Island in Gulf Shores, Alabama
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September 12, 2020
5 Best Remote Beaches in Eastern Brazil
By Michelle Segrest, Navigate Travel Adventures
Unique, off-the-beaten-path day trips are not difficult to find, even from the very remote sailing port of Marina Jacaré in Cabedelo, Brazil. This is a popular port for sailors crossing the Atlantic Ocean, and the first stop is one of the most gorgeous islands on the planet.
While many sailors prefer to take longer trips to Rio de Janeiro, we wanted to explore the more remote local beaches off the beaten tourist path. We also wanted to see beaches that had a variety of character from the wild, deserted beaches to the popular local spots to more touristy treasures. All of the beaches and hidden gems are dog friendly—as we wouldn’t go anywhere without our sailing beagles, Cap’n Jack and Scout.
Ihla Fernando de Noronha—Off the Eastern Brazilian Coast
After 15 straight days sailing across the Atlantic Ocean from Mindelo, Sāo Vicente, Cape Verde, Africa to Cabedelo, Brazil, South America, we took a pit stop at the remote island of Ihla Fernando de Noronha.
We dropped the anchor in an open bay surrounded by plush rainforest mountains that reminded us of Jurassic Park. This hidden gem is a national park—an archipelago of 21 islands and islets in the Altantic Ocean about 250 nautical miles from the eastern coast of mainland Brazil.
After about a week of blistering heat while sailing the doldrums on the Equatorial line and into the waters of the Southern Hemisphere, we welcomed the overcast weather and even the rain that began to fall and cool things off a bit.
Then the sun came out and we could truly appreciate the beauty that surrounded us. In deep contrast to the brown and silver mountains of Cape Verde, these formations were covered with plush green vegetation. Hundreds of long-tailed birds hovered around the island. We think they may have been some species of parrot.
Dozens of dolphins jumped and played and leaped from the water to the delight of the sailors sitting in anchored ships, the tourists on charter boats, and the kayakers and paddle boarders that had populated the bay under the bright Brazilian sunshine. Huge sea turtles were swimming alongside our sailing vessel, Seefalke, and piquing the interest of our sailing dogs—Cap’n Jack and Scout—who probably wanted to go ashore, but also seemed content staying at home onboard.
We learned that the small island community will accept no more than 400 visitors per day.
The islands of Fernando de Noronha are administratively unique in Brazil—forming a state district that is not part of any municipality and is administered by the government of the state of Pernambuco (despite being closer to the state of Rio Grande do Norte. The state district's jurisdiction also includes the very remote Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago, located 625 kilometres (388 mi) northeast of Fernando de Noronha. Seventy percent of the islands' area was established in 1988 as a national maritime park.
In 2001, UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site because of the importance of its environment.
Praia de Maracaipe (Porto de Galinhas)—Open-Air Dune Buggies & Coconut Tree Climbers
Porto de Galinhas is located south of Recife in Pernambuco. There is a lot of fun stuff to do like beach buggies, wind surfing, or horseback riding but it is not as crowded as some of the other tourist beaches.
From Marina Jacaré it is about a two-hour drive to Praia de Maracaipe, a beach inserted in the Municipality of Ipojuca, Pernambuco, located about 75 km from Recife.
With its sprawling fields of coconut trees on one side and a gorgeous ocean with gigantic waves on the other, it’s a local hangout that looks like French Polynesia.
"Maraca", as the regulars call it, is the backyard of the Sufis who reside in Ipojuca and in Recife, especially after the shark attacks that occurred in the capital and in Vancouver.
The beaches situated south of the port of Suape (PE) are more prone to surfing, for not allowing the passage of sharks and for being environmentally more balanced.
Open-air dune buggies are rented for transport along the sand-filled roadways along the beach.
At any time, you will see a local casually climbing a coconut tree as easily as a monkey to retrieve the refreshing green coconuts that locals sell to tourists for only 2 Real each (about 50 cents in USD). With a sharp machete, the local peddlers slice open the top and pop in a straw. Tourists drink the water/milk directly from the coconut. Delicious!
Tabatinga Beach Brazil
Sailing Dogs explore Remote Beaches in Brazil
Beautiful Beaches in Brazil
Tabatinga Beach Brazil
Tabatinga Beach—Remote Paradise
Tabatinga Beach is possibly the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen. There is no tourist infrastructure, but the scenery is remarkable.
We unleashed the hounds and let them run and play for hours while we walked and explored the multi-colored mountains and exquisite tropical nature surrounding the beach that had hardly any people on it. It was the absolute opposite of touristy—wild and spectacular!
The warm, calm waters are perfect for bathing or swimming, while the mountain cliffs offer hiking opportunities with the rewards of spectacular views. From the top of the cliffs you can see the southern coastline. When the tide is high, this becomes a dolphin observation outlook point. Paragliding is popular due to the strong winds on the edge of the sea.
Tabatinga Beach is bordered by reefs which create natural pools when the tide is out. Even with its open waters, the reefs make the beach perfect for families with kids and safe for swimming and bathing.
From the top of the Mirante dos Golfinhos, you will see dolphins when they come in late in the afternoon to feed near the coast and interact with visitors.
Praia de Pipa—Artists & Tourists
Praia de Pipa is the opposite of Tabatinga. It is incredibly touristy until you walk past some of the major rock formations that look like lava fields. With all the graffiti and art galleries, we could easily see this is where the local artists peddle their talents.
Pipa is magical if you don’t mind large crowds. The pristine beaches are backed by tall cliffs, dreamy lagoons, good surfing, and endless pousadas, hostels, global restaurants, and good nightlife. The waters are filled with dolphins and sea turtles.
Surfers discovered the small, roadless fishing village in the 1970s. Today, Pipa rivals Jericoacoara (Ceará) as the Northeast’s hippest beach town, and attracts partygoers from Natal, João Pessoa, Recife, and beyond at holidays and weekends. International travelers visit Pipa regularly. Its laid-back, ecological and independent-traveler
Pipa has a very cool, calm, relaxed vibe and is probably too small for that to change, despite the van loads of day trippers from Natal. This was the only place we visited where some English was spoken.
WATCH THE VIDEO to see some of our favorite remote beaches in Brazil
Tambau Beach (João Pessoa)—Tourist Delight & Evening StrollsTambau Beach is a popular, palm-fringed city beach featuring bars, eateries, and craft vendors. This is the place to go at night as the area comes alive with music, food, and the cool breeze off the water. If you want to be in the city center and still enjoy the beach, this is the place to go.
There are plenty of water activities, boat trips, available and a beautiful view. It is perfect for a morning or an evening walk along the boardwalk with a variety of restaurants, entertainment, and security. It’s a typical urban beach—very crowded on the weekends.
2 Quick Day Trips from Cabedelo, BrazilIngá Stone
If you need a beach break, rent a car and drive inland to the ancient Ingá Stone. This rock with ancient inscriptions believed to be more than 6,000 years old.
Take a two-hour drive from Marina Jacaré to see the famous Ingá Stone. Off the beaten path, the Ingá Stone (Pedra do Ingá in Portuguese) is located in the middle of the Ingá River near the small city of Ingá, 96 km from Joāo Passoa, in Paraiba State in the northeast of Brazil.
The Ingá Stone is also called Itacoatiara do Ingá. It is a rock formation in gneiss which covers an area of approximately 250 m² with entries whose meanings are unknown. Several figures are carved in low relief, suggesting the representation of animals, fruits, and constellations like Orion and Milky Way.
It is composed of some basalt stones covered with symbols and glyphs which are undeciphered until now. Scholars think it was created min. 6,000 years ago by natives that lived in the area until the 18th century.
2. Valley of Dinosaurs (Vale dos Dinossauros)—Sousa, BrazilThis is one of the few places in the world where visitors can walk alongside fossilized tracks from 80 different dinosaur species. This natural monument in Northeastern Brazil allows you to walk alongside dinosaur footprints in different shapes and sizes and life-size replicas of the jurassic creatures will take you back in time over 100 million years ago.
The walkways allow visitors to see nearly 50 fossilized footprints of the carnivorous Noasauridae and 53 tracks of the herbivore Iguanodon, among many others.
The impressive tracks are found within a 270-square-mile preserved ecological area. The damp earth from rivers and ponds hardened over periods of drought, gained new layers of clay and fossilized these footprints for posteriority, making this area one of the most important places for dinosaur lovers throughout the world.
If you want to find out more about who these Brazilian jurassic creatures were, what they ate, how fast they ran, if they hatched their eggs, or if they could fly, you can also visit the museum of the Valley of the Dinosaurs. There, investigators carry on unraveling mysteries and working so they can answer questions from curious visitors, filmmakers, and children.
The Valley of Dinosaurs is a hidden gem 500 km/350 mi inland from Joao Pessoa, near the town of Sousa in Paraiba State in Brazil. It is an area of 150 hectares/350 acres where a great number of dinosaur tracks and bones were found. Unfortunately, Brazil doesn't do a good job of promoting this unique location. If you are interested in archaeology and want to see a little more of the changing landscape of beautiful Paraiba, then the 6-hour drive from Joao Pessoa are well spent.
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April 29, 2020
Freetown Christiana - Copenhagen’s Hippie Commune
It was a simple misunderstanding.
Traveling with my friend and work colleague, Terri, it was my responsibility to handle all the business details on the 15-day European tour that would take us to 12 cities in three countries. Copenhagen was the first stop.
It was Terri’s responsibility to take care of the fun—a perfect job for my free-spirited, adventurous friend.
We arrived in Denmark's capital city, navigated the subway, talked our way out of a steep fine for not knowing about stamping our ticket (we played the we’re-from-Alabama-and-don’t-know-any-better card) and then quickly settled in to our teeny, tiny little hotel room. I got busy answering emails and confirming work appointments. Terri was busy researching, talking, studying the travel guides—excited about exploring the city and planning the fun.
But I must admit, I was distracted with work details and wasn’t paying close attention to what she was saying. It was okay. I trusted her. “You are in charge of the fun,” I reminded her. “I will just follow you wherever you want to go.”
I vaguely remember that she mentioned Copenhagen, Crown Jewels, Christiana, Castles, King Christian, Christiansborg Palace…a lot of “C” words.
“Whatever you want to do is fine with me. You are the fun expert!”
Exploring Copenhagen, DenmarkWe bolted out of the hotel room and took a quick two-block walk to the gorgeous harbor at Nyhavn. We quickly fell in love with Copenhagen!
The lifestyle is cool—relaxed and carefree. The locals are completely engaged in the city and each other. It was a beautiful, sunny day. We took a quick boat tour to see the traditional city sites and then enjoyed just sitting in a sweet little café by the water, watching the big ships and talking to the friendly Danes.
Most of the locals travel throughout the city on bicycles, and cyclists have the right of way. It is common to see men in business suits on their way to work…on bicycles with their briefcase sitting securely in the wicker basket attached to the handlebars. Women ride bikes in pencil skirts and high heels. It’s impressive.
Touring Copenhagen on a BicycleThere is only one way to appropriately tour Copenhagen, we agreed—on a bicycle!
We found a rental place just around the corner from our hotel. For the bargain price of about 80 U.S. dollars, we had two bikes, about 10 hours of daylight, and a whole new world to explore!
Terri had the maps memorized and a complete fun agenda. As promised, I followed her lead.
Now, remember, there were a lot of “C” words thrown around when Terri was planning and I wasn’t listening.
She said, “Let’s go to Christiana!”
Ok. Great! I’m right behind you!
For some reason, in my distracted, jet-lagged brain, I was thinking this was the name of the castle where the crown jewels are stored and guarded. So in my mind, we were off to have tea with the Queen.
Like I said…a simple misunderstanding.
We peddled and peddled and peddled—enjoyed the sights and scenery and stopped at a few tourist spots along the way. But Terri was on a mission with a definite destination. She kept saying, “We are getting close.” But I noticed we were seemingly getting further and further from the city center.
I was a bit confused.
“If we are close, shouldn’t we be seeing a castle? Castles are big and tall! If we are close, we should be able to see it by now. Right?”
We went through several off-the-beaten-path, cobblestone streets that were no longer packed with locals or tourists. Terri was confidently peddling in front of me and looked like she knew what she was doing. So I continued to follow her. She’s in charge of fun!
Discovering Copenhagen’s Hidden Gem — Freetown ChristianaWe finally stopped in a back alley near an abandoned mobile home covered in graffiti. Terri jumped off her bike, grabbed her bag and announced, “This is it! We’re here!”
Huh? What?
We parked our bikes and set out on foot. I was in a state of dazed confusion. A simple misunderstanding.
Within a block or so, we seemingly stepped back in time and entered a whole new world. And through a figurative and literal fog, everything became clear.
We were in Christiana!
Christiania is a self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood of about 84 acres and some 850 residents in the borough of Christianshavn. Civic authorities in Copenhagen regard Christiania as a large commune, but the area has a unique status in that it is regulated by a special law—the Christiania Law of 1989—which transfers parts of the supervision of the area from the municipality of Copenhagen to the state.
Colorfully dressed characters sporting dreadlocks and torn jeans casually roam the commune in a happy, content, foggy haze. Every building, hut, warehouse, fence, old military barrack, mobile home and even the dumpsters are decorated in colorful murals and often-controversial graffiti.
Did we somehow step into a time machine and get dropped in the middle of the 1969 Woodstock Festival? No, this is modern-day Freetown Christiana.
There is no crime. There are no cars, so no traffic. No one yells or fights or screams. Everyone is happy. Seriously. Everyone. Happy. Really happy. It is pure serenity!
Freetown Christiana’s CommunityWe later would learn that the people in Christiania have developed their own set of rules, independent of the Danish government. The rules forbid stealing, violence, guns, knives, bulletproof vests, hard drugs and biker’s colors.
Jacob Ludvigsen, a well-known journalist, was co-author of Christiania's mission statement, written in 1971 when a group of hippies founded Freetown Christiana. He wrote:
The objective of Christiania is to create a self-governing society whereby each and every individual holds themselves responsible over the wellbeing of the entire community. Our society is to be economically self-sustaining and, as such, our aspiration is to be steadfast in our conviction that psychological and physical destitution can be averted.
In deep contrast to the site’s previous use as a military base, the spirit of Christiania is peaceful, communal and calm. It is a modern-day adaptation of the hippie movement and the squatter movement. It is governed by collectivism and anarchism. It’s just cool!
Many Danes consider Christiania a successful social experiment. For many years, the legal status of the region has been in limbo due to different Danish governments attempting to remove the Christianites. The attempts at removal have all been unsuccessful so far.
I was wearing a preppy tennis skirt with coordinated top, a Northface jacket, color-coordinated tennis shoes and visor with neatly combed ponytail dangling from the back of my head. Terri was sporting a carefully coordinated Nike running set, very fancy camera around her neck and a typical-touristy Pacsafe travel bag strapped across her chest.
Without saying a word, we looked at each other and telepathically agreed that perhaps we were a bit overdressed and out of place. We looked like a couple of country club socialites trying to fit in at a Grateful Dead concert.
Even though we didn’t quite blend in, we proceeded.
But honestly, I don’t think anyone noticed us. Not one person gave us a second glance. They were content in their own little world—their own little piece of tranquil heaven tucked away on the outskirts of Copenhagen.
One more block, one right turn, and we were on Pusher Street.
Christiana’s Famous Pusher StreetLittle stands were set up, kind of like a trade show, and the vendors were displaying all types of handmade jewelry, hashish and skunk weed. There are rules in Christiana forbidding “hard” drugs. The hash commerce is controversial, but since the rules require a consensus they cannot be removed unless everybody agrees. This is probably not going to happen.
There were pots of green leafy plants decorating the doorstops and street corners. I don’t think it was poison ivy.
We worked our way through Pusher Street in our preppy uniforms, self-conscious that we would be judged, but barely even warranting a simple glance from any of the Freetown citizens. We stumbled upon an open-air food stand and ordered two beers with leafy plants on the label. We shared a brownie.
We sat down at one of the many picnic tables in the commune-style eating area, relaxed and enjoyed the view—amazingly admiring the free lifestyle and the beautiful people who call Christiana home.
Music was playing. I think it might have been The Eagles. There was most definitely a peaceful, easy feeling. Christianites played chess and strummed guitars. No one was staring at a cell phone, and I doubt anyone could have told us the time of day. It didn’t matter. Amid the definite fog in the air, our minds were clear and free.
It reminded me that I often work too hard, take life too seriously and rarely find time to stop and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
We would later discover Christiana is the fourth largest tourist attraction in Copenhagen (about half a million visitors annually) and has an international “brand” which boasts a progressive, liberated, culturally diverse Danish lifestyle.
This special place can spark the wanderlust in us all through its sweet, warm, inviting simplicity. It is the antithesis of touristy.
We could quickly see that Christiana is home to Greenlanders, musicians, street people, vagabonds, artists, intellectuals and academics. Anyone from any race, religion, creed, country, sexual orientation or socioeconomic background can find sanctuary and comfort in Freetown Christiana—even a couple of preppy Southern American girls bewildered by the beauty can find acceptance here.
Yes, it was just a simple misunderstanding. I thought we were going to see the crown jewels. Instead, we took an unexpected turn onto Pusher Street and discovered a completely different kind of gem!
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Post script: Denmark’s crown jewels are kept in the treasure chamber in the cellar of Rosenborg Castle and in the ¨Gold Cage¨ at Amalienborg Museum. The crown jewels in Denmark are the only ones in the world that are shown as museum pieces and also worn by the country’s Queen.
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April 27, 2020
Plash Island - Paradise on Alabama's Gulf Coast
By Michelle Segrest, Travel Adventures from #myofficetoday
Fight the heavy tourist traffic traveling south on Highway 59 and you’ll find hundreds of shops, restaurants, attractions, bars, and discount shopping outlets.
But if it’s serenity you seek, hang a right just before the W.C. Holmes Bridge and begin the long, empty, somewhat boring trek down Oyster Bay Road. The two-or-so-mile drive down County Road 4 seems endless as any evidence of tourism completely disappears.
Cross over the 50-yard bridge that connects Gulf Shores to Plash Island—a small, quaint, island community—and you will begin to see life again. You can catch a glimpse of dolphins surfacing in the bay and see the old and new ships being serviced and refurbished at Nelson’s Boatyard. Local fisherman take cover from the brutal sun under the low bridge that provides the only road access to the island as they patiently drop their lines in hopes of landing the speckled trout, redfish, sheepshead, and flounder that are abundant in the mixture of fresh and saltwater below.
Enter Paradise.
There is no sign of tourism of any kind on the island. No restaurants, no gas stations, no convenience stores, or shops—you’ll only find local residents and the small Oyster Bay Baptist Church, which is a renovated building that was originally constructed in 1923.
The obvious and welcome lack of hustle and bustle creates a quiet, communal atmosphere. Plash Island offers the best of both worlds—a serene island lifestyle with no tourist traffic but easy access to all the shops, restaurants, events, and attractions that are so prominent in the heart of a city that thrives on tourism.
I lived, worked, and reared my children for 23 years in the industrial city of Birmingham, the largest city in Alabama. In 2016, when my children left the nest for college at Auburn University, the sea and salt air were calling my name, and I made the easiest decision of my life. I made Plash Island my home and have never looked back. I travel the world for work and often report about incredible and unique locations from #myofficetoday. Plash Island is #myofficeeveryday, and there is no place in the world like home!
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Plash Island is located about five miles west of downtown Gulf Shores. Bon Secour Bay (which means “safe harbor”) is my back yard and my front yard is a gorgeous marina on the Intracoastal Waterway within a small condo community of sailors, fishermen, and boat lovers.
Surrounded completely by water, I can sit on my back deck and see the barges and shrimp boats cruise along the ICWW. I can sit on my front porch and witness spectacular sunsets highlighted by silhouettes of classic shrimp boats on Bon Secour Bay.
On daily walks with my beagles, Cap’n Jack & Scout, we see herons patrolling the marina and the banks of the island. Pelicans dive head first, crashing with great force into the water of Bon Secour Bay as they fish for food. Sometimes eagles soar above our heads. Even though we see them almost every day, we never get tired of watching the local dolphins splash, fish, and play. Sometimes, a manatee finds its way inside our marina.
Wildlife is abundant on Plash Island. In addition to many varieties of birds, opossum, raccoons, and armadillos, at night we can hear the coyotes howling at the moon and can often hear the snort of wild boar. And occasionally, an alligator slithers through the marina waters or along the beautiful rocks that border the island’s perimeter.
The People of Plash Island
The friendly and talented people of Plash Island are as beautiful as its scenery and sunsets.
You can charter a fishing trip from Captain Donnie of Team Vinson Charters or from the Frazier family, who own and operate Fins & Family Fishing. Both offer private, family-friendly inshore and nearshore fishing charters on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The Fraziers also own and operate Captain Frazier’s Bait & Snack Boat, which features live bait such as shrimp, croakers, and bull minnows as well as cold sodas, refreshing snow cones, and light snacks.
In 2009, friends and Plash Island residents Dave and Tricia LaGasse built the amazing Gulf State Park Pier. At 1,540 feet, the pier is the second longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico and has 2,448 feet of fishing space and a fish cleaning station.
Paula Gonzalez operates SeaPaws Dog Resort, located right next door to us on Plash Island. She offers a full day of unleashed fun for your dog. It’s the best doggie daycare and boarding place on the Gulf Coast with acres of fenced room for your dog to run and play with other dogs. Cap’n Jack & Scout get so much exercise and social interaction and love to spend time there when I have to travel without them.
From her front porch, Lynn Jordan captures exquisite images of the shrimp boats trawling through Bon Secour Bay.
The Shrimping Tradition of Gulf Shores
Seeing the classic shrimp boats is part of the character of Plash Island. Commercial fishing in South Baldwin County is a multi-million-dollar industry with market demands for shrimp, oysters, and fish exceeding the supply.
On September 25, 1971, The Gulf Shores Tourist Association created the first shrimp festival held on the municipal beach adjacent to the Hangout (at the end of State Highway 59). Homespun, with a friendly, relaxed feeling, numerous church and civic organizations featured shrimp dishes at a nominal cost as fundraising projects and to promote the use of shrimp, which provided the area at that time with $5 million annually.
From a one-day festival in 1971 to a four-day event that is still held annually in early October, the Gulf Shores Shrimp Festival on Pleasure Island has grown in popularity and now attracts more than 300,000 people each year.
The Fishing Tradition of Plash IslandWith its rock piled perimeter and nearby islands, Plash Island and the surrounding area offers a built-in fishing structure that is a fertile hunting ground for local fishermen. There is a mixture of fresh water coming in from Magnolia Springs and Bon Secour River and seawater coming in from Mobile Bay. Fishermen and boaters can venture into Bon Secour Bay to the opening of Mobile Bay—where Fort Morgan meets Dauphin Island—and see the distinct line where the fresh water meets the saltwater of the Gulf of Mexico.
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The History of Plash Island
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From Plash Island, it’s only about a 10- to 15-minute drive to the Gulf Shores beach, or a 40-minute bicycle ride, which is my preferred way to get there! Beautiful Gulf State Park is also easily accessible with bike trails along Shelby Lake, featuring a cool dog park, and the magnificent Gulf State Park Pier.
Formerly the northernmost tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula, the area became an island in the early 1940s when the ICWW was built. Plash Island was named for the family who settled it to harvest seafood and was the home of Plash Island Seafood for 34 years. Plash's store was at the mouth of the south fork of Bon Secour River. The Intracoastal Canal was cut through the peninsula behind Plash’s store, cutting the Ridge Road off from Bon Secour.
Originally, it was simply called “The Island.” On an old map it was called “Hog Island.” Around 1965, the name Plash Island began to catch on.
About 600 acres on or near Plash Island were annexed into Gulf Shores in October 2004.
Cap’n Jack & Scout love to hop in the Protagonist, our wooden, 15-foot day sailer, and cruise with me around the island to local Gulf Shores restaurants. Many of them allow us to moor the boat right outside. With outdoor seating, our beagles are always welcome. Sometimes we take the boat out at sunset and just sit inside the gorgeous colors that reflect off the calm bay water. In about two-hours, the beagles and I can paddle around the entire island on a kayak and see the island’s beauty from the water.
Along with the quiet atmosphere and relaxed island lifestyle, Plash Island and Gulf Shores are especially dog-friendly, which is the ultimate bonus. Although I’ve sailed and traveled to unbelievably beautiful destinations on six continents, there is nowhere in the world I’d rather call home than Plash Island.
Click here for Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama
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April 14, 2020
Scary Roller Coasters — 7 of the World's Best Thrill Rides
The world’s scariest thrill rides. As a genuine thrill-seeking, adrenaline junkie, there is nothing more scary, exciting, exhilarating and gratifying than a ride on a great roller coaster! These are a few of my favorites from around the world.By Michelle Segrest — Travel Adventures from #myofficetoday
Strap yourself in and get ready for the ride of your life. Or death.
It’s the anticipation, the fear, the excitement, the lingering question of whether you will plunge to the earth and splat on the pavement. And then—even though it only lasts a few seconds—it’s the thrill of the actual ride that can make your heart pump out of your chest and provide a rush you’ll never forget.
And if your heart stays inside your body and you actually survive it...well, you usually want more!
As a genuine thrill-seeking, adrenaline junkie, there is nothing more scary, exciting, exhilarating and gratifying than a ride on a great roller coaster! These are a few of my favorites from around the world. Please comment and let me know your favorite!
Talocan Phantasia Land | Köln, Germany
Just standing in line and watching this one will make your stomach turn and take your breath away. In fact, watching it may be worse than riding it. There is something about the combination of the bursts of flame, jets of water, beating death-march drums, the Indiana Jones-type vibe, the blood-curdling screams and an extreme whipping and twirling action that would make a Navy Seal cry for his momma!
I love the Talocan because it’s not a traditional roller coaster in any sense. Truly unique, you experience a feeling of airlessness and suspense that will leave you breathless. It takes you dangerously close to the flames and then sprays your face with water…all the while the drum beats to add intense drama.
This is Europe’s only top spin ride. It leaves riders dangling upside down. All the blood rushes to your head, then it whips you around—maybe forward, maybe backward—with extreme force and intense disorientation. The only ride in Germany that might compare is a drive on the famous Autobahn, where speed limits are non-existent.
Formula Rossa Ferrari World | Yas Island | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Working a convention in Abu Dhabi, I had a rare afternoon off. I called my buddy in Dubai to see if he would meet me at Ferrari World to catch a ride on the world’s fastest roller coaster. His quick answer… “No freaking way!”
Solo ride for me.
When the fastest roller coaster on the planet takes off, you feel like you’ve been shot from a cannon. No kidding. The acceleration is 240 kilometers per hour in less than five seconds. It launches you 52 meters into the sky at 4.8 Gs.
Goggles are a requirement, but even with protective eyewear, I felt like my eyeballs were being ripped from the sockets. When I got off the ride, my hair was in such a tangled mess it took about an hour to get a comb through it. The park was built in 2010 around the legendary Ferrari story. The island also holds the Yas Marina Circuit, host of the Formula One Grand Prix.
Aerosmith Rock ‘N Roller Coaster Hollywood Studios | Orlando, Florida, USA
This one was all about the music. I’ll never forget it… Aerosmith’s classic tune “Dude Looks Like a Lady” was playing when I rode it. I will always remember this one—not so much for the fun ride—but because it marked a monumental moment in my daughter, Shelby’s, life. She was 9. We stood in line for about an hour and at the last minute the fear got to her and she opted out. So I rode solo with strangers. She immediately regretted this decision and vowed never to feel that way again. Ever since, she has never passed up an opportunity to ride any roller coaster, anywhere, any time. Now, she’s my thrill partner!
Staged as a backstage pass to an Aerosmith concert, this ride takes off in a flash at 60 miles per hour in a stretch limo, passing legendary Los Angeles landmarks along the way. With two rollover loops and one corkscrew, this ride is even more exciting because it happens in the dark with only some strobe flashes of black-lit scenery along the way. You never quite know what is next and you can’t see it coming!
Insanity – The Ride Stratosphere Tower | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
This is perhaps the most perfect name for a roller coaster ever—it’s insane! This one is not for anyone with even a slight fear of heights. With 3G force at 40 miles per hour, this ride angles you at a 70-degree tilt and happens 40 feet from the Stratosphere Tower observation deck—a whopping 906 feet above the Las Vegas Strip. It extends 68 feet over the edge of the 1,149-foot tower.
There are more than 100 different variations of the ride, ranging from a simple family ride to an extreme experience. You can decide whether it’s a good or a bad idea to first down one of the signature Stratosphere cocktails before strapping in. It will give you a shot of courage beforehand, but perhaps a severe tummy ache afterward. While there, also check out X-Scream and Big Shot!
The Incredible Hulk Coaster® Universal Studios | Orlando, Florida, USA
Accelerate from zero to 40 mph in two seconds flat, with the force equal to that of a jet taking off an aircraft carrier. The weightless "Zero G" roll turns your world upside down and then a power surge provides a burst of speed.
The Hulk launches you 150 feet in the air and reaches top speeds of 67 mph. There are seven inversions and two subterranean trenches during the 2-minute, 15-second ride.
The first time I experienced this ride was with my daughter, Shelby. We had a fast pass and rode it over and over and over again. We couldn’t get enough. I returned several years later and again, enjoyed this one multiple times! It’s not the scariest, but it’s perhaps the most addictive!
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Universal Studios | Orlando, Florida, USA
I could hear the screams from the other side of the park.
Adrenaline pumping and music thumping, you start climbing straight up, lying flat on your back at a 90-degree angle. When you hit the summit 17 stories above Universal Studios, a moment later you plunge face first at 65 miles per hour.
Orlando's tallest roller coaster also features several exciting, "never been done" elements, including the world's first non-inverting loop.
After riding the Hulk several times, we studied this one while trying to build the courage. It would be pretty easy to talk yourself out of it. Climbing the first tower at a 90-degree angle is the scariest part. The ride features a great soundtrack and you can choose your music, which then accompanies the video you can purchase. Super cool and totally worth it!
Iron Shark Pleasure Pier | Galveston, Texas, USA
The Iron Shark features a 100-foot vertical lift with an equally vertical drop. Tracking at 52 miles per hour, this 1,246-foot coaster track includes a diving loop, greater-than-vertical drop and four full inversions.
Similar to Universal’s Rockit with the 90-degree climb, the Iron Shark is unique because it sits on the pier directly on the water and takes you soaring over the Gulf of Mexico.
After a fun day of segueing through the streets and beaches of Galveston, Shelby and I joined dear friends, Joe and Teresa, for several hours on Pleasure Pier where we rode this ride at least 20 times.
I’m ready for the next exciting adventure. Tell me about your favorite thrill ride!
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April 12, 2020
How to Travel with Dogs to Morocco—When a Country is NOT Dog Friendly
By Michelle Segrest, Travel Adventures from #myofficetoday
Watch the video about our Sailing adventure video about sailing to Morocco, Africa with dogs
Watch the Video about sailing with dogs to Morocco, Africa
One of my favorite things to do while spending time in a sailing port is to talk with other sailors. We meet experienced sailors and newbies, full-timers and weekenders.
The sailing community is so cool! We all share weather reports and routes and tips about boat maintenance and living onboard. And of course, we all love to swap sailing stories.
Everywhere we’ve been so far, we have met sailors who are headed down to the Canary Islands, just like us. They seemed so surprised when we tell them we were excited about making a stop in Morocco.
I always ask them why they would miss a chance to explore the northwest African coastline—especially since it’s on the way. Some said they were afraid it was not safe. Others heard reports that it’s dirty and not many marina amenities. And others said they didn’t know if they would fit into the culture.
Whether their concerns were right or wrong, it was a no-brainer for me—I wanted to see for myself.
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Walking the Armadillos — WHERE ARE ALL THE DOGS?
Travel with Dogs in Rabat, MoroccoThursday, 15 November 2018
I was so happy to finally be in Africa! After a 75-hour passage from Lisbon, Portugal we had arrived in Rabat, Morocco early on Thursday morning. By the time we got through customs and moored Seefalke safely into her slip in Bouregreg Marina we immediately leashed Cap’n Jack and Scout and begin to explore Rabat, which is the capital city of Morocco.
I have visited Islamic countries before, but mostly in the Middle East. I knew that women are treated differently in this culture. I know how to dress to be respectful. Even though it is hot, it’s important for women to always stay covered. It’s not necessary for tourists to wear a burka, and in fact, most women in Morocco do not wear the traditional Muslim dress with head and face covering as they do in other places I’ve visited—Abu Dhabi, for example. Some women wear the long dresses and cover their heads. Others wear fashionable but modest clothes and maybe just cover their heads with a scarf. To be respectful, I always kept my arms and legs covered when venturing away from the marina.
After a short walk, the pups and I settled in while the captain went into the city alone to find an ATM and get some local currency (dirham). He also wanted to scope out a restaurant for the evening. Food in Rabat is inexpensive, and we didn’t feel like cooking after our exhausting passage. We also wanted to explore the city a little more.
We considered the choice of a fancy dinner or eating like the locals. My answer is always the same—eat like the locals!
As we began walking through the downtown streets, I noticed there were no women at any of the outdoor cafes. Only men were sitting there. I also noticed how people were staring curiously at me and the pups. The locals seemed fascinated with my blonde hair. I didn’t see one other blonde-haired woman that day or during our entire stay in Morocco.
The locals were also staring at the two Beagles on leashes walking through the city with us. Many people were frightened by them. It’s difficult to imagine how anyone could be afraid of Cap’n Jack and Scout. But in Morocco, there are not many dogs kept as pets. We saw some wild dogs roaming the streets, and we saw dozens of stray cats. But we didn’t see one single dog walking on a leash with a human.
Since we set sail from Stralsund, Germany on August 19, we have visited many ports. They were all dog friendly. We could take the Seadogs into restaurants and into shops with no problem. We were accustomed to seeing dogs being walked by their humans everywhere. In fact, in places like Spain and Portugal, it was rare to see someone walking the streets without a dog.
We learned that Moroccans consider dogs to be wild animals—not domestic pets. I suppose it was strange for them to see us taking a couple of wild animals for a walk.
We can understand when we put things into perspective. Compare it to how Alabamians feel about armadillos. We see them everywhere, all the time. We consider them wild animals and probably would not keep one as a pet. It would most definitely be odd to see someone walking through the streets of Gulf Shores with an armadillo on a leash.
This must be how the Moroccans feel seeing us walking our Beagles. After posting a video about our adventures in Morocco, we received an insightful explanation about the Moroccan attitude toward dogs from a viewer.
He explained…
“To answer your question concerning the whys behind Moroccans not having dogs as pets . . . Not all Moroccans can't or won't have dogs as pets but most prefer not to, the reason being that our religion (Islam) says that dogs have very-difficult-to-wash saliva that don't go away with your typical one soap-filled sponge scrub. In fact, our prophet Mohamed says that if a dog licks a plate it should be washed 6 times with water and the seventh should be done with soil.”
I really appreciated this polite and insightful explanation.
Meanwhile, I was beginning to understand why people think Morocco is dirty. There was trash lining the streets, and it was difficult to find a trash can. Orange peels, cigarette butts, paper food wrappers, and rotting banana peels were simply part of the landscape. I saw at least three men peeing on the side of the street. We even saw one man pooing in full squat right on the street.
Cap’n Jack and Scout didn’t seem to mind wading through the trash covered streets. They we’re loving all the stinky smells. For them, the stinker the better.
Somehow, we stumbled upon a special place. We found a very cool Moroccan restaurant that allowed women AND dogs - ô Saveurs de la Mèdina. We went inside and were treated to an exceptional meal and a beautiful, colorful Moroccan atmosphere. I ordered beef with grilled plums and apricots while the captain had lemon chicken with grilled green olives. It was so delicious! We soon discovered that the restaurant was owned by a Frenchman, not a Moroccan, which is probably why they were ok with us bringing in the dogs.
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VIEW FROM THE CROW’S NEST
How to Live on a Sailboat with DogsFriday, 16 November 2018
We were expecting a visit from our friend, Aziz, who lives in Casablanca. But he would not arrive until later that afternoon, so we spent the morning working and then spent the afternoon making boat repairs.
One of our many tasks was to re-rig the halyard for the mizzen stay sail. It had detached during our last passage. In order to accomplish this, one of us needed to go to the top of the mast—the crow’s nest.
On a ketch, there are two masts. We needed to go to the top of the smaller one—the one on the stern—which is about 10 meters high.
I eagerly volunteered.
I was strapped into the bosun chair, which is kind of like a sling that you can sit in. It was carefully rigged with the mast’s built-in pulley mechanism so that I could be lifted to the top using a winch.
I felt safe. But just in case, I wrapped my legs around the mast and was squeezing as hard as I could with my thighs. Each time I heard the crank of the winch, I shimmied up the pole as the mechanism lifted me skyward.
I made it to the top and accomplished my task of rigging the halyard. While up there I snapped a few pictures. I tried to take a video, but I only captured images from the inside of my bra where I had stuffed my phone to keep it secure. The video was off when I thought it was on and on when I thought it was off.
Aziz showed up later that afternoon and we had a lovely time visiting with him. He offered to show us around Casablanca the next day. We quickly accepted. The best way to explore a new city is with a local!!
Because the restaurant from the night before allowed us to bring in Cap’n Jack and Scout, we returned there and enjoyed another fantastic Moroccan dinner. This time we had couscous with fresh grilled vegetables. It’s a tradition for Moroccans to eat couscous on Fridays.
HERE’S LOOKIN’ AT YOU, KID
Travel with Dogs to Casablanca, MoroccoSaturday, 17 November 2018
I awakened early and was so excited to spend the day in Casablanca! This has been on my all-time bucket list since I was a little girl and fell in love with the movie.
We took the tram to the main train station. But when we approached the kiosk to purchase our tickets, we were abruptly greeted by an official who told us we couldn’t bring the dogs on the train unless they were in a bag. A bag? First, we had no idea what he was talking about and secondly, we had no idea where to get a bag that we could use to carry Cap’n Jack and Scout onto a train.
We tried to get on a bus, but again, no dogs allowed.
Then we saw a line of taxis outside the station. We guessed it would cost a fortune to take a taxi 60 kilometers into Casablanca. But at this point we were running out of options.
We talked to a few of them and learned from their broken English that their taxis are not allowed to leave the city. I was starting to panic. There is no way I could come this far and not see Casablanca!
One of the taxi drivers got on his cell and about 30 seconds later, a driver walked over and said he would take us to Casablanca for 700 dirham. This is about 70 Euros or around $80 USD. He also was ok with us bringing the dogs along.
We thought this was fair and agreed. Of course, he had the same kind of taxi as the others so we were not sure how he could take us but the others couldn’t. Soon, we found out.
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When we got to the edge of the city, he pulled over to the shoulder of a very busy highway and made a call on his cell. I was in the back seat all squashed in between two beagles had no clue what was going on.
A few minutes later, another driver showed up in an unmarked car. He parked in front of us on the shoulder.
Our driver said, “Get into the other car.” As other cars on the busy street whizzed by us at warp speeds we didn’t really have time to question the situation. We jumped out of the taxi and the four of us willingly got into the unmarked car with the driver we had never met. He quickly sped away. We felt like we were in a Jason Bourne movie.
The driver was very sweet and drove us into the heart of downtown Casablanca. It took about 90 minutes to get there. We pulled out the money to pay him the 700 dirham. The driver said, “Give me 1,000.” We stood firm. “We agreed to 700.” I quickly got myself and the dogs out of the car the negotiation continued. Finally, we gave him the agreed upon amount with a small tip and waited for Aziz outside a nearby train station.
Aziz picked us up and took us to his favorite restaurant, but we had to leave the dogs in the car with the windows slightly cracked. This made me nervous. But we had no choice. No dogs allowed.
I was sticking out like a sore thumb—no blondes anywhere. There is no way for me to look anything but American. This is fine with me, and I didn’t mind the stares. I just smiled at the people and gave them all a friendly, “Hey y’all!”
Casablanca is densely populated. The streets are very busy with lots of people and lots of activity.
It’s very touristy in some small areas but Casablanca is mostly local. Again, we saw only men sitting in the cafes, and we continued to get stares from people who didn’t seem to understand why we would walk through town with two wild animals on leashes.
For me, part of the fun and adventure of traveling is experiencing the different cultures and environments. I find this so enriching. It’s important to find ways to venture outside your own bubble.
The high touristy spots in Morocco are Agadir and Tangier. In Casablanca, we were tourists among locals and quite the novelty for them. There were beggars everywhere, and this American blonde was a hot target. I must have said “No” a million times.
Our first stop was the Hassan II Mosque, which is breathtakingly beautiful! It’s spectacular! It is the largest mosque in Africa, and the fifth largest in the world. Its minaret is the world's tallest at 210 metres (689 ft). Completed in 1993, the minaret is 60 stories high topped by a laser, the light from which is directed toward Mecca. The mosque stands on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic Ocean. Worshippers can pray over the sea but there is no glass floor looking into the sea. The walls are of hand-crafted marble and the roof is retractable. A maximum of 105,000 worshippers can gather together for prayer: 25,000 inside the mosque hall and another 80,000 on the mosque's outside ground.
The mosque is lavish and opulent. Anyone who is Muslim is invited to pray there. They don’t have to pay anything or be a member of anything. Aziz told us that the Moroccans believe that anyone should have access to God. The doors are always open for anyone and for Muslims during the standard prayer times, which are signaled by a series of bells ringing from the mosque tower that can be heard throughout most of the city.
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We met with Aziz’s brother, Zaid, and strolled along the shore for a while. This is the area where many tourists visit. We got more stares from locals, and everyone seemed afraid of Cap’n Jack and Scout. We kept them on a close leash and tried to soften the fears. Some of the children wanted to pet them. We let them pet Scout, who is always friendly and gentle with kids, and they seemed to delight in touching her velvety ears. The adults kept a safe distance.
As the sun began to set, Aziz took us to the one tourist spot I just had to see—Rick’s Cafe. This is the famous gin joint from the movie “Casablanca.” The restaurant is relatively expensive and with the dogs, we didn’t even try to make a reservation. But I still wanted to see it.
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From the outside it looked just like what I remember from the movie, only it was in color and not black and white. There were four guards outside the restaurant. I asked them if I could just take a peek inside. Their response... a very matter-of-fact, “This is not a museum.”
Aziz could see I was disappointed. He went up to the guards, and in the unique Moroccan French/Arabic blended dialect, he asked the guards if I could just go inside for a minute. He told them how I came all the way from Alabama. He managed to convince them, but I had to leave my camera outside.
This is an upscale restaurant so it was decorated much fancier and swankier than what we see in the movie. Bright, vibrant colored pillows were beautifully placed on the comfortable sofas and chairs that were used as seating around wood-carved tables lit with the warm glow of antique oil lamps. The spicy, fruity scent of incense filled the air. The waiters, all men, were dressed in classic black tuxedos and wore white gloves. You could see the chefs preparing food over steaming stoves through the open kitchen.
There was an incredible black grand piano sitting right in the middle of the restaurant. No one was playing it, but in my mind I could hear “As Time Goes By.”
Play it again, Sam.
AMONG THE GHOSTS OF WRITERS AND SPIES
Travel with Dogs to Tangier, MoroccoSunday, 18 November 2018
There was one more place in Morocco that I really wanted to see—the Gran cafe de Paris in Tangier.
This is a very special place where famous writers like Tennessee Williams, Paul Bowles, and William Burroughs penned some of their most memorable masterpieces.
It’s also the hangout where secret agents and spies lurked to listen in on local conversations during Tangier’s colorful International Rule 1923 - 1952.
We had a rental car, so we decided to take a road trip about three hours north of Rabat, to Tangier.
It felt so strange to be in a car. We are now so accustomed to traveling on the boat.
I love road trips. And I especially love to take the road less traveled.
We were definitely on a rural highway—one that separated two civilized worlds. Our route was lined with goat and sheep farmers. The homes in the villages looked like they were made of misshapen cardboard boxes. The village streets were not paved or even graveled. The streets were made of mud.
On this road trip there were no burger joints at every exit. We finally found a gas station that also served pre-made sandwiches so we grabbed one and continued on.
As we got closer to Tangier, it began to pour! The rain was falling heavily as we made our way downtown to visit the famous cafe.
We found a parking spot and walked the pups. Then we put them back in the car so we could take a quick visit inside the cafe.
Even though the rain was pouring heavily, the streets were busy with the hustle and bustle of hundreds of people.
Six hours of driving in the pouring rain (round trip) just to sit in a cafe for an hour may sound preposterous for most people. But I am a writer. I wanted to just sit inside for a few minutes and inhale the writing genius in the air. After all, famous writers once found so much inspiration in this tiny cafe.
Most of the patrons were men, but they let me come inside. It was packed, and the whole place was covered in a fog of cigarette smoke.
The inside walls were paneled in dark carved wood. It reminded me of a gentleman’s cigar bar. Several locals, all men, were seated in a dark round parlor-style room intensely watching a soccer match on a big screen TV that truly did not seem to fit.
We were seated near a window in the front room. The waiters, all men, wore bright red suit jackets with white bow ties and black trousers. The small cafe was packed with people, mostly local men, and we had to share a table with other patrons. A few of the older gentlemen sitting across from us looked like they had been sitting there since the 1940s. Most of them were lost inside the pages of a book or a newspaper. They were all sitting shoulder to shoulder, but none of them were engaged in conversation with each other or even seemed to know each other.
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I ordered a Moroccan mint tea, which I had some to love so much and also a danish. Then I just soaked in the atmosphere. I felt so inspired and couldn’t wait to write my next blog. By the way, we stayed about an hour and our total bill was €2.60 which is about $3.50 USD.
I was most interested in the writing genius that once frequented this simple cafe, but it’s also famous for being a hotspot for spies and secret agents. I find this so intriguing. There is a famous scene in the movie “Bourne Ultimatum” that takes place in this cafe.
We sat there about an hour then went back into the pouring rain to return to the car and the pups.
We made it back to Seefalke three hours later and crashed. Even with the heavy rain, it was worth the drive!
SWEET HOME ALABAMA
November 19-26, 2018
I needed to be at the airport by 06:00. I had been planning a trip to Alabama to surprise my parents for Thanksgiving. With a little more than an hour drive, this meant we needed to leave the marina by 04:30.
The rain was still falling heavily as we made our way to the rental car and then to the airport.
Again, there was a rigorous customs procedure. When I got to my gate there were only Americans waiting for my flight. I found this amusing. Where were all these blonde-headed, blue-blooded Americans all week?
My 20-year-old son, Bo, drove to Atlanta to pick me up from my flight. We had a lovely drive to Birmingham and got caught up on all the happenings in his life.
I have missed my kids so much. I had not seen them in four months.
We drove to Birmingham where I met with my best friend, Trisha, and her son, Michael. It was fantastic to see them. I had been getting so homesick and this was just the best thing ever to break away and spend time with family and friends.
I spent the night in Birmingham. I was having a hard time breathing, and I was badly congested. I think it was because my body was accustomed to the fresh salty sea air.
My 23-year-old daughter, Shelby, arrived on Tuesday and then the three of us headed to Lake Guntersville to surprise my parents and all my brothers and their families.
Shelby, Bo, and I had a plan. We would drive to my parents’ house and I would stay in the car. The kids went in and told their Nana and Pops (my parents) that they needed help bringing in some things from the car.
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When they walked outside, I jumped out from behind the car! It was so awesome! They were so surprised! As the rest of the family trickled in during the next few days, I had so much fun catching up with everyone. My sister-in-law, Pam and my niece Allie came a day early just to spend some extra time with me.
The whole week was priceless. I even got to watch my first Auburn football game of the season, even though our rival Alabama beat us badly. I slept in a real bed and took real showers. This felt like a supreme luxury.
While in Alabama, I called my doctor and asked him if he would call in a prescription for Transderm Scop seasickness patches. Many sailors told me this would help me with my epic seasickness. Dr. Brock has been my doctor for more than 25 years. He delivered both of my children.
I had to go to two different places in Guntersville only to find 12 patches. Let’s hope they work!
On Sunday, Shelby drove me to Atlanta to catch my flight back to Morocco. I miss them already.
Read about when I saw Africa for the first time
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Back in Rabat, Morocco
26-30 November 2018
I didn’t get much work done while in Alabama so this was my first priority. I worked hard on articles for my clients during the first two days back, and then began helping with all the boat maintenance that needs to be finished before we cross the Atlantic in a couple weeks.
There are a million things on the to-do list. We compare our boat maintenance list to a roll of toilet paper. No matter how many squares you tear off, it just keeps rolling and rolling and rolling. And when you get to end of that roll, you must replace it with a fresh roll. It’s never ending.
There are two things that are at the top of the list. First, we continue to have water coming into the bilge from the anchor windlass. This requires maintenance at least 2-3 times a week. The whole week I was in Alabama, it continued to pour in Morocco. This meant that a lot of water made its way into the bilge.
The captain had rigged several tools to reach into the tiny crevices in Seefalke’s belly. He even placed some baby diapers on the end of a long stick to sop up the water in the crevices and corners that he couldn’t reach with his arm and a sponge or with a water pump. Building creative rigs is just part of being a sailor.
Meanwhile, he was organizing our other major repair. We need to replace the zinc anodes on the bottom of the boat. We had a diver go underneath Seefalke in Lisbon. He told us they definitely need to be replaced, which means pulling the 11-ton Seefalke out of the water on a crane. The marina in Morocco has no crane so we made arrangements to take care of this once we get to the Canary Islands.
We were trapped in port that week because the swells coming in from the Atlantic at the entrance/exit of the marina were too dangerous. This gave us some time for all our chores. Then we readied the boat to set sail on Saturday morning.
We took a quick walk to a nearby beach. It was a beautiful setting, except for all the piles of trash everywhere. It was so strange—there were lovers walking arm in arm on this romantic beach, enjoying a remarkable sunset, and stepping over trash every few feet. Some couples were sitting on a blanket with trash all around them. It was bizarre to me, but for them I suppose it was the most natural thing in the world.
Why Would Anyone Sail to Morocco?
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After two weeks in Morocco, we can confirm that it was worth it. Even though it is not dog-friendly, and the streets are dirty and the culture is different than what Americans are typically used to, it was a worthwhile stop on our way to the Canaries.
The great thing about traveling is exploring places that are unfamiliar to your everyday life. How boring would this world be if every place were the same and every culture the same?
I felt safe and welcomed in all the places we visited and leave here with a warm impression of Morocco. I would definitely recommend it to other sailors and to anyone who wants to have a unique and pleasant traveling experience.
You have to look beyond the trash-lined streets to see the beauty of Morocco—but the beauty is there.
Click here to read about sailing to the Canary Islands - the next chapter in our sailing voyage
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April 7, 2020
Travel Nurse in the Trenches — Heroes On the Front Lines of the Coronavirus
No one is as close to the COVID-19 pandemic as our healthcare professionals, and while this travel nurse dreamed of seeing the world, first she will fight on the front lines against the unpredictable Coronavirus that threatens millions worldwide. She describes a day in the life of a nurse immersed in the crisis and offers advice on what you can do.
April 7, 2020
By Michelle Segrest , Navigate Content, Inc.Before she leaves work each day, she wipes down her entire body with medical-grade bleach wipes—from the top of her head all the way to the bottom of her shoes. She drives home and is grateful that there is no one there but her dogs, Bailey and Buzz.
“I never thought I would be grateful to live alone,” she says.
Waiting for her at her front door are two industrial-strength garbage bags. Before she walks in the door, she places her shoes in one of them. Then she strips down to her birthday suit and puts every stitch of her clothes in the other. The bag and it’s contents go straight to the laundry.
She immediately jumps in the shower and vigorously scrubs her body with boiling hot water. It’s similar to how they scrubbed Meryl Streep in the famous scene from Silkwood, a movie about severe nuclear contamination that was made 11 years before this 26-year-old travel nurse was born. Then she walks Bailey and Buzz, the highlight of every day.
“My job as a travel nurse happened at the perfect time,” says Allie, who left her home in Alabama for West Virginia three weeks ago for her first assignment as a travel nurse. “People might wonder why I say this since I’m exposed to the Coronavirus every single day. But at least this way, I won’t bring it home to my parents or other people that I love.”
She is now more than 500 miles from home—alone, grateful, and afraid.
Nurses Serve on the Front Line of the Coronavirus Pandemic“As a nurse, I’ve seen a lot,” Allie says. “I’ve been exposed to patients with scabies, shingles, C-diff, Chicken Pox, HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis C—you name it. I never felt afraid. I was born to do this. I was born to take care of people. I would walk into the room like I’m big and bad and like I have some sort of super powers. Whatever you have can’t touch me, I would think to myself. When I say I’ve seen a lot, I mean it. I watched the love of my life slowly die after a year-long battle with colon cancer, and I took care of him every single day. I watched him go through chemotherapy and shrivel into a skeleton. I was born to do this. I was born to take care of people.
“But this is scary.”
Travel Nurse in the Trenches
Allie works on the front lines of the Coronavirus as a travel nurse. It’s not exactly what she expected when she signed up as a travel nurse.
A Travel Nurse and Her Dogs
Allie cuddles with her dogs, Bailey and Buzz.
Daily Life of a Travel Nurse in the Trenches
Allie was thrilled when she joined the travel nurse program. Fighting the Coronavirus is not what she expected, but she knows that one day she will see the world.
A Travel Nurse headed to her first assignment
Fighting the Coronavirus is not what Allie expected when she left home to see the world as a travel nurse with her dogs Bailey and Buzz
A Nurse's Mission
Allie says she was “born to take care of people.” She nursed her boyfriend, Hunter Shell, for a year until he lost his battle with colon cancer.
At the beginning of her nursing journey
Allie and her longtime boyfriend, Hunter Shell, who lost his battle with colon cancer after a year-long fight.
A Nurse's Mission and Purpose
“I was born to do this,” Allie says. “I was born to take care of people.”
Using Masks to Fight Coronavirus
Allie advises wearing a mask and staying at home in the fight against the Coronavirus.
How Patients with Coronavirus Suffer
Now, she walks through the hospital doors and shields herself with a mask and protective gear. The cloth armor helps, but it no longer makes her feel invincible. Coronavirus is her Kryptonite.
Now, as she walks through the quiet, deserted halls of her hospital, the eerie echo of death lurks around every corner and behind every door. She can hear Coronavirus patients fight and gasp for every breath. Some have the luxury of ventilators to help them breathe. Some do not.
They struggle alone. No visitors are allowed.
Allie no longer feels invincible, but she continues to battle from the front lines.
She washes her hands at least 384 times a day. She’s done the math.
“I visit eight patients one to two times per hour for 12 hours,” she explains. “I wash my hands before I enter the room each time and after I leave each time. I’m surprised I still have fingerprints.”
The Reality of the Coronavirus PandemicBut it’s a small price to pay to protect the people around her and control spread of the virus. For those who think staying home alone and washing your hands constantly is difficult, Allie recommends considering this . . . “Think about how many people you came in contact with the past 14 days and how many people they each came in contact with the past 14 days. If one of them has Coronavirus, well . . . just do the math.”
A healthy person may not experience fever. They may have a cough and perhaps shortness of breath. But they may still have Coronavirus. It could easily feel like having allergies, Allie says. “What people don’t understand about the inconvenience of lockdowns is that we can have this virus for up to 14 days with no symptoms. The incubation period is anywhere from two to 14 days. If you had to tell the health department everyone you’ve been in contact with for the past 14 days, could you do it? Could you name them and provide phone numbers? This is the kind of inner circle you need to have. If you had to provide this list, would you be proud of yourself? Would you think you did everything you could to prevent the spread of the virus?”
Then think about what the people on the front lines are going through.
Every day, Allie goes home to a house with no other humans. Her colleagues who have spouses and children must quarantine themselves from their own families because they have most definitely all been exposed to the virus. One of her colleagues quarantined herself from her kids for 14 days. Then she found out one person she knew was exposed and she had to wait another two weeks before she could risk seeing her children. Just in case.
One of her fellow travel nurse friends left two weeks ago to work at ground zero in New York.
What Everyone Can Do to Prevent the Spread of Coronavirus“I just wish people would take this seriously,” she says. “If everyone could see what I see every day, they would just stay home. It’s so easy. Yes, it’s inconvenient. But this will save lives. It’s just that simple. Stay home.”
This is not exactly what Allie had in mind when she signed up to be a travel nurse. She wanted to see the world and experience different places and cultures. So far, all she’s seen of her new hometown are private hiking trails and the front yard where she plays frisbee with Bailey and Buzz. But it’s okay.
“I was born to take care of people,” she says. “I will see the world when all this is over.”
The hospital where Allie works is huge with separate wings and floors for Coronavirus patients. But that doesn’t mean the other parts of the hospital and other staff members are not at risk.
“I am not in direct contact with the Coronavirus patients,” Allie explains. “However, some patients arrive with certain symptoms that meet the criteria to have the COVID-19 test. West Virginia was one of the last states to record positive Coronavirus results, but this could be because of the lack of tests available. The criteria is insane. Of six boxes, you must check five of them to even get the test. What’s happening, for example, is people come in with diabetes and they are treated for diabetes. But perhaps this is a 70-year-old male who needs to go to rehab before he goes home. The rehab facilities and nursing homes require that he needs a negative Coronavirus test before they can accept him. They then give him the Coronavirus test, and he tests positive. They may have a few symptoms but not all of them. Now he’s been exposed to several nurses without protective masks or protective gear. Now he has exposed an undetermined amount of people. It’s chaotic.”
How Do You Know if You Have Coronavirus?Two weeks ago, when Allie began working at this hospital, all nurses were not wearing masks. “Now we are,” she says. “It changes every day, and that’s what makes it so scary. We just really don’t know everything we need to know about this.”
These patients cannot breathe, Allie says. “They choke for breath and gasp for air. They describe it as having an elephant sitting on their chest. If they walk up two steps they are bent over and literally out of breath. Athletes who sprint 100-yard dashes can’t get enough air to walk up two steps. It just attacks the lungs. For people my age who are healthy, some are getting over it. But there are also healthy people my age who are dying.”
Coronavirus Prevention Advice from a Nurse on the Front LinesAllie has simple advice for everyone. “I have to work, and I’m exposed to this on the front lines,” she says. “If you have to work, afterward go straight home, take your clothes off, take a shower, and stay home. If you are stir crazy and need fresh air, exercise in your front yard. Facetime with your friends and family and have that connection, but stay home. It’s not about me and you. It’s about your grandparents. Think about them. My grandfather has had Cancer three times, and he would not survive this if he got it. He just wouldn’t. So as badly as I would love to see him and hug his neck, I will stay home. I tell my Mom to not go see him. Don’t take the chance.”
Allie says what we must sacrifice is not so bad.
“It may not be fun eating beans and pasta for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but we can survive without luxury items and fancy food for a few weeks,” she says. “If in two weeks we can get past this because we ate Vienna sausages instead of eating at a restaurant with our friends, I think it’s worth it.”
The daughter of an Eagle Scout, before moving to West Virginia Allie loaded up on non-perishables—rice, canned goods, beans, and cereal. “If I have to quarantine, I’ll have enough food,” she says. “When I got here, I loaded up on milk, eggs, butter, cheese, and toilet paper. Without Dad’s boy scout routine, I probably wouldn’t have anything.”
How to Move Forward in the Climate of CoronavirusWith ever-changing information, the learning curve is steep.
“Always consider your source of truth,” Allie advises. “Don’t get your main information from Facebook or Twitter. Definitely follow the social distancing. I know you want to be with your friends, but just do it virtually. We all have technology. If you get together with 10 of your friends and play cards one night, that’s really fun, but what if one of you has it? Again, remember to think about who you’ve been in contact with the past 14 days and who they’ve been in contact with. What if one of them has a grandfather with lung issues. He could die if he gets it. I know how I would feel if I gave it to someone else. Seriously, just stay home. This will all be over soon.”
How Does a Nurse Find the Emotional Strength to Go to Work Every Day?“That’s the question of the day,” Allie says. “This is just what I was born to do. I was born to take care of people. If every nurse is afraid to go to work, who will take care of these people?”
The hardest part, Allie says, is that these people are experiencing this alone. In fact, even people who are being treated for something other than Coronavirus are forced to be alone while in the hospital. A patient not much older than Allie was diagnosed with Cancer recently. The doctor informed the spouse over Facetime.
It was so hard to see these people get this news alone,” Allie says. “I could hear the kids on Facetime asking when their parent when they would be home and completely unable to understand why they couldn’t be there. No one should have to get that kind of information alone. We have become not only the caretakers for these patients, but also their family. I try to empathize with them and let them know that I’ve been through this. I can’t imagine getting this news about my boyfriend and not being able to hold his hand or hug him. It’s devastating.”
As hard as it is, staying home and respecting others with social distancing is the smart thing to do. “It’s the only thing to do,” Allie says. “The government is literally asking us to stay home and do NOTHING. It should be so simple. I don’t know why it’s such a hard thing for people to do. Remember that you could have Coronavirus and not experience any symptoms. You may not even know you have it, but you could be giving it to other people. Many people without symptoms are testing positive for Coronavirus.”
The CDC guidelines are changing every day. “I get an email every day describing new guidelines and recommendations,” Allie says. “There is just not enough research and information to really know what we are up against. Until we do, I’ll continue to serve on the front lines. But you should stay home. Just stay home.”
The biggest thing is how do you protect others, not just yourself, Allie says.
“It’s scary. Actually, I think people are not scared enough. Be scared. If more people were frightened, maybe we would be gaining some ground. So many people are wearing that imaginary bullet-proof vest that I was wearing, but no one is immune. I’ve seen multiple sick people who maybe had the virus before we had the test for it. Some of us nurses in the beginning were saying that if the flu had this much media coverage we would all be afraid of the flu.
“Once it was here and we had the tests and the multiple cases of positives started to occur it became serious. We had these deaths before, but perhaps they were ruled as pneumonia because these patients laid in the bed for so long they developed pneumonia. Now we understand that Coronavirus may have been killing these people. Now, we see how fast it is spreading and how it’s killing not just older people, but also young healthy people. For a while we thought it was only killing old people. Then we thought it only killed smokers. Now we have a diagnosis. It affects everyone, and we don’t know how to cure it. This is the reality. We also don’t have the equipment to keep you protected or the research to tell you what to do. This is all reason to be scared.”
Meanwhile, this young 26-year-old travel nurse still has dreams.
“I would love to someday go to Hawaii, or at least somewhere tropical,” she says. “So far, I haven’t even been able to explore this part of West Virginia. But it’s okay. For now, this is my purpose. I was born to do this.”
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