If you are thinking of making holiday travel plans this year, here are some things to think about.
Are you flying? If so, book your flights as soon as you can. This means in the next day or two. Seriously. You have probably read about current flights being disrupted and those have the potential to disrupt your holiday travel plans even more. Last minute flight changes seemingly happen regularly, prices increase as we get closer, and more families just want to travel.
Santa Catalina, CA
Where are you staying? If your holiday travel plans include Airbnb or VRBO instead of hotels, these companies have already begun to sell out in some popular vacation sites.
If you plan on venturing outside the US, check your passport. If you need to renew it plan on about 16 weeks turn around time. Same goes for a new one. Expedited service is no better. Think about where you are going. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months at the time of travel. Check your expiration date before you make those holiday travel plans.
London Tube
Do not forget about COVID-19 restrictions. Check, check again, and check once more for any testing and quarantine requirements before you finalize any holiday travel plans. Each country has its own requirements, even if you are just passing through on a connecting flight. Be sure to check closer to your departure date as well. You may need a digital health pass like France requires. You should have copies of your tests, vaccinations, etc. Make several copies to be safe.
Also, remember the US still requires a negative COVID-19 test for all returning passengers entering, over the age of two.
If you plan on taking gifts on a flight, remember you cannot take wrapped gifts. TSA will probably inspect them. It would be best to ship them in advance.
One area of the Denver Botanic Garden is the Bonsai Tree area. We looked at trees no more than two feet tall which had been growing for 10 years to over 50 years.
We overheard one person say these were just little trees that are not very impressive and asked why they were even here. That might be a common misconception if you do not know what it takes to keep these trees little.
Exactly, what is Bonsai?
Bonsai is a Japanese term which literally translated means planted in a container. The ultimate goal of growing a Bonsai is to create a miniaturized but yet realistic representation of nature in the form of a tree.
They really are little trees. And, so much more.
Can you train any plant to be a bonsai?
Apparently, almost any tree or shrub can be turned into a bonsai. Why? Because it is created from perennial woody-stemmed tree or shrub species that produces true branches and can be cultivated to remain small through the size of the pot. You need to prune both the crown and the root.
Structural pruning keeps bonsai trees small by cutting off thicker branches. This will adjust and guide the appearance of your tree over the years. You want to trim branches close to the ground, ones parallel with the trunk.
What are the best trees for beginners?
One choice is Chinese Elm, a semi-evergreen tree with small leaves. Another choice is Juniper, an evergreen tree with scale-like foliage. This one is a bonsai classic and old specimens from Japan are extremely valuable. You could also pick Cotoneaster, an evergreen tree with small leaves and flowers.
The Summer Bonsai Show was happening during our visit to the Denver Botanic Garden. We walked around through the tents housing the winners, classes, and displays of dozens of trees. Just when we thought we saw an ‘old’ tree, we found one even older.
Some of these were in excess of 100 years old. They have obviously been tended to by multiple generations. Amazing!
When we decided to visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, we did not realize it was recognized as one of the top five botanic gardens in the US.
After spending several hours there, wandering most of their 24 acres, it is easy to see why they receive that recognition. With the wide diversity of plants from all over the world, there are several gardens within the facility.
The first area we explored is Garden of the West with its regional garden areas and plants native to this area. The Bristlecone Border, one of three gardens in the Western Panoramas, is a demonstration of Colorado’s subalpine ecosystem from 10,000 feet to 11,500 feet. Gnarled bristlecone pines are accentuated by a variety of native grasses, flowers and shrubs.
In the Cactus and Succulent House, tender cacti and succulents representing 20 families are displayed in this quaint glass house. Unusual, desert-adapted old-world exotics lead into native species of North America, Central America and South America.
The Conservation Gardens area spotlights Colorado’s rare and threatened plants and their companions, primarily from the southwestern portion of the state. Featured plants often correspond with those studied in the Gardens’ Research and Conservation Department.
Receiving no supplemental irrigation, the Dryland Mesa Garden is a showcase for arid-adapted plants. The garden features cacti, agave, yuccas, trees and shrubs that are suitable for our region. Peak bloom is from mid-May to mid-June.
This western-themed garden, Dwarf Conifer Garden, highlights the subtle variations in color and texture of dwarf conifers, a category of cultivars well-suited for small spaces. These slow-growing evergreens, perhaps best viewed in winter, gain only 1-6 inches of height annually.
The Welcome Garden serves as a gateway to the Gardens, offering year-round interest while hinting at what is possible in your yard. Among its features are flowing water, a gathering space and native plants intermingling with ornamental cultivars.
Next, the Ornamental Gardens with perennial and annual favorites of gardeners. We walked through herb gardens, daylily gardens, fragrance gardens, rose gardens, romantic gardens, sensory gardens, and scripture gardens. Well tended with beautiful flowers we felt like we were in someone’s back yard garden.
Since it was hot in Denver that day, the Shady Gardens provided a welcome relief to cool down. The Birds and Bees Walk allowed us to sit and watch hummingbirds and bees dart among the blossoms. Just the spot we needed after walking on a hot day.
In the Water Gardens, an extensive waterway system meanders through the Gardens and feeds seven water gardens. Together, they display more than 450 aquatic plant species and varieties. The Gardens is a world leader in aquatic gardening and the display of aquatic plants.
The Four Towers Pool is a pond adjacent to the Science Pyramid. There is a changing array of aquatic plants including papyrus, swamp hibiscus and cannas along with hardy and tropical waterlilies. The tower fountains in this pool are the entry point for water recirculated throughout all of our waterways running west to the Gates Montane pond.
The Monet Pool was my favorite spot of all. It is the Botanic Garden’s largest water garden and features a stunning collection of aquatic plants including hardy and tropical waterlilies, Victoria waterlilies, pickerel plants, cannas, iris and more. Peak bloom occurs from June through September each year. We learned an annual Water Blossom Festival is held in early August.
Now to explore the Pyramid. The Science Exhibition Pyramid explores the ways in which the lives of Colorado’s living things are intertwined through landscapes and the finite resources we share. Interactive activities and stories allowed us to see and hopefully understand the bonds we have with nature. My favorite was a hologram of a globe showing how hurricanes, drought, and more affect different areas of our world.
Take some time next time you are in Denver and visit the Botanic Gardens. Plan to spend at least three to four hours. You may take in water or you can buy drinks and food at two cafes within the facility. At this point in time, masks were not required outdoors if you were vaccinated.
If You Go: The Denver Botanic Gardens are located at 1007 York Street, Denver, CO. The hours are 9 to 7.
Recently we flew to Denver for a long week-end. This was only the second time flying since the pandemic started.
What surprised us and what were our expectations?
First, TSA. In the TSA Pre-Check line, a man in front of me tried to argue with the TSA agent about his ID and his Pre-Check status. The argument didn’t last long as another agent stepped in to take care of him.
Next, the airport. The Denver airport was packed with people. There was no social distancing, no room for it. Announcements were made repeatedly about wearing masks at all times and what type of masks were acceptable. People adhered to this for the most part. We saw several people with their masks pulled down until another announcement was made.
Now, the plane. Both ways the plane was full. We expected that. The flight attendants on Southwest were beyond friendly and helpful. With all the negative press about people on planes, we did not have any of those on our flights. Announcements were made multiple times about keeping your mask on unless actively eating or drinking. As usual, passengers got up when the seat belt sign was lit…nothing different there. The choice for drinks was limited. Five choices were given and we were asked to hold up a finger to show which choice we wanted. One finger for Coke, two for Diet Coke, three for Seven-Up, four for water, and five for coffee. Most people complied.
We were surprised by the number of people in the airport. Was that unique to Denver? Hard to tell as it was a holiday week-end.
Will we fly again? Sure, as long as people comply with the guidelines.
It always helps to know a few simple travel tips, especially when going to a new place. It seems like every time we travel, we learn a few more simple travel tips. Sometimes these come from seasoned travelers and sometimes from locals.
Here are just a few of our favorite simple travel tips.
Les Baux runis
Understand Money
We look up the exchange rate when we travel outside the US. We will get some Euros or currency from our local bank before we leave. That way we have some cash in case we need it as soon as we land. It is a simple travel tip that can save you money especially after a long flight.
If we need more cash once we are there, we use ATMs. The best ones are either located in a bank or right outside a bank. Try not to use an ATM in an airport or train station as the rates will probably be higher. Also, do not use the currency exchange counter at the airport, unless you are confident the exchange rate is what it is supposed to be.
We use a credit card associated with our bank. This simple travel tip allows us to dispute a false charge if necessary. When asked if we want the charges to appear as the foreign currency, Euros for example, or US dollars, we always choose US dollars.
Understand Guided Tours
We have found that guided tours can be a wonderful way to see certain sites. The best simple travel tip is to book it ahead of time, especially in a high tourist area. That way when approached by multiple guides trying to sell their tours, we already have ours booked. We use a reputable website or tourism bureau to find the best fit for the site we want to visit.
Understand Restaurants
This simple travel tip will most likely offer you the best meal. When looking for a place to eat, we tend to avoid restaurants with the menus outside that are written in English only. Why? Typically, this means they cater to tourists. Even though we are tourists we prefer to eat local foods.
If you are not sure of what the menu says, use Google Translate, https://translate.google.com/ to help you. Some of our best meals have been in restaurants where we were not quite sure of the items listed.
Another simple travel tip regarding restaurants is to find ones that are not right near popular tourist attractions, like the Eiffel Tower, Sagrada Familia, the Louvre, the Spanish Steps.
We have many more simple travel tips for a later post. Right now…we cannot wait to travel again.
When traveling, there are essential items to pack in your carry-on bag. Depending on how, where, and when you travel you might have favorites or additions to this list.
Getting ready to travel
Essential Items to Pack
A toothbrush is one of the absolute essential items to pack. This is especially important to me if I am flying, but also is essential if I am on a driving trip. I want a toothbrush handy in my carry-on bag.
Medications are another of the essential items to pack and have handy. If you are flying, TSA highly recommends not putting any medications in checked luggage. These may be as simple as pain meds or your prescription meds. Both are important.
Portable charges are not only handy, but essential. You have no idea if the airport has outlets or if they are all in used. Keeping your phone charged is handy if you need to contact the airline about a change of flight.
Some extra clothes are always essential items to pack. Of course, this depends on how long your trip or flight is, but who doesn’t like some fresh clothes to wear?
I take a reusable water bottle. This could be as simple as buying a bottle of water once you are through security or bringing your own from home. Empty of course.
Extra face masks are definitely essential items to pack. Since you want to change your regularly be sure to pack plenty in your carry-on bag.
Speaking of masks, if you need to block out light so you can get some rest, then sleep masks might be essential items for you.
Since I do not like being cold, essential items to pack for me include shawls. They do not take up much room in my carry-on bag. You may want to include a lightweight blanket instead.
Some essential items to pack for some people include a good set of headphones to block out noise. This is important on long flights to get some rest or to watch your favorite movie.
Small bottles of hand sanitizer, hand wipes, and lotions are all essential items in my carry-on bag. I can clean my hands, the tray table when flying, and the door handle when driving.
Why Pack These Items?
Face it, flight delays seem to be getting more frequent. Cancellations can happen to just about any flight. Plan on being without your checked luggage and carry the essential items with you. If you are driving, your luggage may be out of reach or in the back of the trunk. If you have these essential items in a bag closer to you, your trip can be more enjoyable.
If your plans include travel out of the US, you need to pay attention to these restrictions and additional requirements.
You will need to have a COVID-19 test to come back into the US. Plan for the time and extra expense.
Make sure you know the guidelines for the country where you will be traveling to, as many are different.
You may need to quarantine.
Rules change daily it seems. Check with the US State Department before you plan your trip, before you buy tickets, and before you leave for the airport.
The United States and many other countries are starting to round the corner on the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an exciting development, even if this global event will likely stretch on for a while longer. For many people, the option to travel is suddenly realistic again. Of course, you want to continue being safe, even as case counts drop. The following five tips can help you enjoy safe travels, presented by TravelsandEscapes.net.
1. Remember General COVID Safety Tips
Vacations are about relaxing and getting away from the rigidity and rules of everyday life. However, that doesn’t mean that you should lighten up on COVID safety, according to the CDC. Remember to practice social distancing and to wear a mask when appropriate. Additionally, if you have not yet received the vaccine, discuss the options with a medical professional. Keep in mind that some destinations may require vaccination for travel.
2. Consider Alternative Travel Options
Think about your options for traveling. Getting to and from your destination is likely the riskiest part of vacationing in terms of COVID. It can be hard to socially distance when on a plane or train. Consider other options such as taking a road trip in your car. Alternatively, some airlines and train operators have special plans to help protect passengers. While it may not be feasible for everyone, in some cases, you may be able to charter private transportation. Explore your options and choose what you feel most comfortable doing.
3. Make Sure You Know Your Destination’s COVID Rules
Keep in mind that wherever you are traveling may have different rules for COVID than your home. This is especially significant in international travel. However, it can also be the case when traveling between provinces or states, and even cities in some cases. There may be both stricter and more relaxed rules. In either case, be prepared to read up on and comply with destination regulations and for general cultural shifts regarding COVID.
4. Look for Private Accommodation Options
Crowded hotels and resorts can become disease hotspots. Instead, consider renting private accommodations such as online homestays. Many options can be as affordable as a hotel room or other traditional accommodation. This is a great choice if you are planning a group vacation. You can get together with friends and family at a destination while still socially distancing yourself from strangers.
5. Pack Smart for the Situation
Traveling during a global pandemic can be an anxiety-provoking experience. Make it less stressful by packing intelligently. For example, you should ensure that your travel documents are easy to access. A passport wallet can help with organization, and use a luggage tag to clearly identify your luggage, especially if you are traveling with others with similar bags.
You also want to stay up to date with the latest news for both your home and your destination, so take measures to keep your devices juiced up by investing in a reliable charger. Consider setting up news alerts for your phone, smartwatch, or another device. However, if you are feeling worried, try limiting yourself to checking the news once per day or less. Doomscrolling is hurting more than helping.
As the situation improves, COVID-friendly travel becomes more possible. For many people, the recent improvements in the state of the pandemic present an exciting opportunity to travel. However, that is no reason to throw caution to the wind. The above tips can help you enjoy your trip while staying safe.
If you travel in the southwest United States, you know about the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde. You might have never heard of Montezuma Castle, however.
What exactly is Montezuma Castle?
Southern Sinagua farmers built this five-story 20 room dwelling between 1100 and 1300 south of Flagstaff, Arizona. Called Montezuma Castle, It occupies a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley floor.
Why is it called Montezuma Castle?
Early American settlers assumed it was built by the Aztec, therefore naming it Montezuma Castle. One structure, called Castle A, is badly deteriorated. It was once an imposing five-story apartment-like building with around 45 rooms. After all this time, many entrances are still visible.
Reliable water could be found in the creek and fertile land on the nearby terrace. Close by is Montezuma Well, a limestone sink formed long ago. It is still fed by continuously flowing springs. Crops, consisting of corn, beans, squash, and cotton, were irrigated by a canal system with its waters. The pit house dates to about 1050. Dwellings near it range in size from one-room houses to larger pueblos.
Was it a Large Dwelling?
Between 1125 and 1400 about 100 to 150 people lived here.
Why Was it Abandoned?
No one knows why the Southern Sinagua people migrated away by the early 1400s. Speculation includes overpopulation, depletion of resources, disease, spiritual beliefs, or conflicts.
Both the castle and the well have visitor centers with exhibits showing how the people lived in the area.
If You Go: Montezuma Castle is located 50 miles south of Flagstaff off I-17.
What is the Weather Like?
Since this is in a high desert, it is hot. There is not much shade on the trail to the site, so be mindful of the sun and heat. Dress appropriately and take water with you.
Traveling to France is on my list. Therefore, I have read a lot of sites and posts about Covid-19 and vaccinations in France. I want to know in advance what vaccinations are required of me, where I can go, and what I can do before I plan my trip.
What Does France Require?
French President Emmanuel Marcon introduced new Covid-19 regulations for vaccinations this summer. These mandates will start in August. They include limiting places with more than 50 people, like bars, cafes, trains, planes, etc. to those who are vaccinated or recently tested negative for Covid-19.
What if Americans Have Had Their Vaccinations?
If you are a vaccinated American, the white card issued by the US CDC does not always serve as the French Health Pass.
What is a French Health Pass?
Bring your card showing your vaccinations with you to France. Any willing French doctor or pharmacist can enter the vaccination information in the French system. This will generate a printout with a QR code. You can then create a paper or electronic version of the French Health Pass.
How Can You Do This?
How can you find a pharmacist to do this? Many pharmacies offer antigen tests free to Americans, with results in 30 minutes.
What is Acceptable?
The French Consular office in D.C. and the U.S. Embassy confirmed the CDC-issued white vaccination card is considered acceptable proof of vaccination for entry to France. If you are flying on Air France, check ahead of time. There have been flights that did not accept the vaccination card and wanted the French QR code.
Can you show your digital copy from your phone? Possibly, depending on where you are and how strict that establishment is.
What About Unvaccinated Americans?
As for Americans, if you are unvaccinated, you will be required to show a negative PCR test or rapid test taken within 72 hours prior to departure for France.
Bottom Line…
If you are going in the near future, check your airline, hotel, and other important places you will be to see what exactly is required. Right now, it can be a little confusing.
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