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Things to do in Pigeon Forge Tennessee
Our trip to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Tennessee was one our family will cherish forever. A fun filled adventure that was great for the kids and adults. We went with 3 other families made up of cousins and friends. We drove from South Florida and had a ride filled with adventures on way. Stopping in St Augustine and Savanna Georgia to brake up the 14 hour car ride was clutch. Included in this post you will find our route with pictures, videos, hotels and things to do.
St Augustine Pit Stop
Our first stop was in St Augustine to see the oldest city in the USA. We toured the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and had lunch at the small town near by. Winter time in Florida means 60 degrees and clear skies. Everyone enjoyed the town and had delicious fish tacos. We then drove 3 more hours to Savanna Georgia to have dinner stay the night.
We stayed near the canal and bridge at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District. Enjoyed delicious pizza at Graffito. Indeed, our hotel had a view of the bride and boats with dining and entertainment right below. We didn’t have to go far to see the lively bands and performances. Moreover, Savanna has a charm like no other. We went to sleep before late and woke up early for a seven hour drive to our Cabin – where the real adventure began.
Pigeon Forge Here We Come
In all honesty, Pigeon Forge lodge was able to host our group of 25 people in a huge 3 story cabin in the town center. To say nothing, some in our group had been there previously and knew all the best trails, activities and food spots. TO tell the truth, it’s great to go with someone that knows the lay of the land.
As a matter of fact, that’s why Ollie and I write these articles. We want to help you feel like you know exactly where to go and what to do even when traveling somewhere new. Not to mention, with so many cool things to do in Pigeon Forge and only three days to explore, we had to wake up early and hit the trails.
Day of Fun
Started our first day off with a hiking trail at Chimney tops trail in the Smokey Mountains. Amazing trail that everyone could hike and enjoy from 2 year olds to 45 year olds the whole group enjoyed it. Then, we saw waterfalls, crossed bridges, climbed trees and drank straight from the river. The most refreshing mountain water you will ever taste. Had lunch on a log by the river and kids skipped rocks. We then headed back to the town to see all it has to offer. We enjoyed go cart racing at Fast Tracks. This is no ordinary race track, it was a 4 story ride with spiraling turns and jumps. The kids were going crazy 😜 fast.
We then had some fried Oreo treats by the track and continued to explore the town museums and gem mining. By that time we were ready to head back to cabin and barbecue all the meat we brought. It was like feeding an army being that we were 15 kids and 10 adults. The cabin had two long tables to accommodate all of us. Kids enjoyed the game room and jacuzzi on the balcony.
We hit the hey and woke up early to go to Jayell Ranch for ATV rides and some of us horse back riding. So many cool animals to see and things to do on this Adventure Park. After the ranch we drove up and explored some mountain view points that looked over Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg
We went back to cabin to get ready to hit the Downtown Gatlinburg which is right near Pigeon Forge. This street was filled with restaurants, moon shine bars, 7d movies and cool stores. A little something for everyone. Moonshine tastings at Sole was the highlight. You can pay $5 and get like 9 small tasting shots of all the flavors they offer and buy even buy some jars to take home if you like. We got the kids Ice cream and milkshakes and tasted the worlds hottest hot sauce at Pepper Palace. level 9 million on the Scoville Scale. 🥵
Gatlinburg downtown was one of the best boulevards I have walked in the US. Highly recommended by OllieM. Back to the cabin for our last night. We were sad it was our last night in this amazing cabin. Kids watched a movie in the theater room and the adults had some free time enjoying the balcony and great 50 degrees weather.
Snow Tubing
The next day we went snow tubing on way home in Maggie Valley Tube World . We chose it because its just 2 hours outside the city on our way back home. Kids loved it and it was a great way to end the trip. We payed for a half session of tubing and saved $20 a person as opposed to full hour. Kids got to go like ten times up and down and that was worth every penny.
I hope this article helps you in your next vacation if you choose to go to Tennessee. See more articles about the many cabins we visited in NC and Georgia. We really love to explore the outdoors and our children get to see nature, mountains, rivers and a sky full of stars which we do not get to experience living in South Florida.

OllieM Rating:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny ****
Proximity: Close to Attractions *****
Safety: Safe ****
Cleanliness: *****
Hospitality: ****
Fun Factor: Woohoo ****
Great for Kids and Adults *****
Will we return: YES! ****
(See our OllieM Rating page on how we rate our vacays)
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Rotem the OllieM contributor and long time globe trotter
January 20, 2023
Hiking, Dining, and Jeeping in Sedona
I recently had the opportunity to visit Sedona, Arizona, and it exceeded all my expectations! As well as from stunning red rock formations to numerous outdoor activities. As a matter of fact, this scenic destination has something for everyone. There is plenty of fun to go around for everyone.
Actually, one of the highlights of my trip was a guided tour of the area with local expert Lyle Murphy. He showed us the best places to hike and take pictures. Additionally, he took us to some hidden gems only locals know about. In all honesty, I highly recommend Lyle if you are looking for a knowledgeable and approachable tour guide.
“Had to stop for a picnic in the middle of the beautiful Sedona wilderness.”
Besides the guided tour, another highlight of my trip was visiting Red Rock Cafe, the best local restaurant in Sedona. In all honesty, the food was delicious and the service was top notch, thanks to our waiter Rodrigo. He made great suggestions and made sure we had a great dining experience.
Furthermore, if you love the outdoors, I highly recommend taking his jeep tour to see the red rocks up close. We took Red Rock Western Jeep Tours and had so much fun! Not only was our guide Patricia Langley very knowledgeable, she also made the tour very enjoyable. In fact, we had to stop for a picnic in the middle of the beautiful Sedona wilderness. Indeed, no trip to Sedona is complete without a visit to Cathedral Rock. Actually, the hike to the top is a bit strenuous, but the views from the top are worth it. To say nothing of the panoramic views of the surrounding red rocks are truly breathtaking. Furthermore, be sure to bring your camera.

Nighttime scene of spititual vortex site at Cathedral Rock in Sedona, Arizona USA illuminated by the glow of the Milky Way and stars in the sky

Processed with VSCO with au5 preset

moving past cathedral rock in sedona arizona
To tell the truth, Sedona is a must-see for anyone looking for natural beauty. No tot mention the outdoor activities, and a taste of local culture. As a matter of fact, I can’t wait to go back and explore more of this wonderful place. In addition, I hope this article has inspired you to plan your own Sedona adventure. Moreover, I hope you discover all the things that make this place so special.
OllieM Rating:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny *****
Proximity: Close ***
Safety: Safe ****
Cleanliness: ****
Hospitality: *****
Fun Factor: Woohoo *****
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults *****
Will we return: YES! *****
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM
January 20, 2023
Secrets of Seattle: The MUST Do and Eats
I recently embarked on a fascinating trip to Seattle, WA and the city did not disappoint. What is more the city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and crystal clear waters. To say nothing of Seattle, it offers an abundance of natural beauty and a vibrant arts and culture scene.
“The expertly prepared salmon bursts with flavor thanks to complementary herbs and spices, with crisp, crunchy vegetables providing a nice contrast to the rich, creamy salmon.”
While exploring the city, I discovered the Salmon House. Actually, it’s a local restaurant known for its fresh and locally caught seafood. As a matter of fact, as I walked in I was struck by the charming atmosphere. Besides the friendly service and of course the quality of the food. My wife’s meal was the famous grilled salmon and seasonal vegetables. To say nothing of the the expertly prepared salmon which bursts with flavor thanks to complementary herbs and spices. Not to mention the crisp, crunchy vegetables providing a nice contrast to the rich, creamy salmon.
Moreover, my meal, I decided to try something new and ordered the clam chowder. Indeed, the rich, hearty broth, filled with tender, juicy mussels, was perfectly seasoned. To tell the truth, the crusty bread on the side served as the perfect dip companion.
In addition to delicious food, Seattle also has a wealth of cultural sights, museums, and attractions. Further,on this trip, we made sure to visit the five must-see destinations:
Top 5 Experiences:
1) Space Needle – In the first place, this iconic tower offers stunning views of the city. It is a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the best of Seattle from above.
2) Pike Place Market – A foodie’s paradise, this bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce and handcrafted goods.
3) Chihuly Garden and Glass – Featuring Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass work, this museum is a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary art.
4) Museum of Pop Culture – Dedicated to the history of pop culture, this museum is a great place to learn. Showcasing the music, film and television industry that have shaped our society.
5) Seattle Art Museum – Home to a vast collection of contemporary and classic art. This world-class museum is the perfect place to explore the city’s creative spirit.
In all honesty, Seattle is a truly unique and charming city that has something for everyone. In fact, whether you’re a foodie, or an art lover, or simply someone who loves exploring. Seattle is a must-see destination that will leave you with an unforgettable impression.
OllieM Rating Chart:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny ****
Proximity: Close *****
Safety: Safe *****
Cleanliness: ****
Hospitality: ****
Fun Factor: Woohoo ****
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults *****
Will we return: YES! ****
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM
January 20, 2023
The Magic of Yellowstone National Park
The Old Faithful Experience:
As a passionate traveler and outdoor enthusiast, I had always dreamed of visiting Yellowstone National Park. From its breathtaking landscapes to its abundant wildlife, the park offers a wealth of experiences to discover. On my recent trip, I was thrilled to finally witness the famous geysers, including Old Faithful, which erupted right on time. It was truly a awe-inspiring sight to behold the power of nature up close.
“The eruption lasts about one and a half to five minutes and is truly spectacular.”
In all honesty, visiting the Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone National Park is an unforgettable experience. As a matter of fact, as you get closer, you’ll hear a roar and see steam rising from the ground. Additionally, raising hopes of an imminent eruption. When Old Faithful finally erupts, you’ll be amazed by its powerful jets of hot water and steam. Sit in the front row of this natural wonder and watch Old Faithful soar up to 185 feet with the mist on your face. The eruption lasts about one and a half to five minutes and is truly spectacular.
Along with its natural attractions, I also took advantage of the local hotspots in Yellowstone. I especially loved exploring Yellowstone Lake and taking a scenic drive along the Grand Loop Road. The views left me breathless. But what really made my trip unforgettable was the food.
2 Best Places to Eat:
As a foodie, I made it my mission to try the best local cuisine and I was not disappointed. Our two top picks for the best dishes in the park are the Bison Burger at Lake Hotel Dining Room and the Grilled Rainbow Trout at Old Faithful Inn Dining Room. Both meals were not only delicious but also made with locally sourced ingredients, adding a special touch.
In conclusion, my trip to Yellowstone was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and I can’t wait to return. Whether you’re an avid hiker, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this park has something for everyone. So, grab your backpack and head to Yellowstone, you won’t regret it!
OllieM Rating Chart:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny *****
Proximity: Close ***
Safety: Safe *****
Cleanliness: ***
Hospitality: ****
Fun Factor: Woohoo ****
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults ****
Will we return: YES! ****
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM
January 20, 2023
Alaska Offers Value and Solitude
Alaska is one of the most amazing places on earth. It is so big and beautiful that there is so much to see and do. It’s like a giant playground for nature lovers. So much so, that here are 10 things you MUST do if you don’t want to feel left out.

To start with, take a whale watching tour – it’s so cool to see whales swimming in the wild. Humpback whales and killer whales may also be spotted.
Visit Denali National Park – Denali is the highest mountain in North America and really cool to see up close. Bears, elk and other wildlife can also be seen.

Go Dog Sledding – Dog sledding is a traditional Alaskan mode of transportation and a lot of fun. Ride a sled pulled by a team of friendly huskies.

Salmon Fishing – Alaska is known for salmon fishing. It can be caught in rivers and seas. It’s really fun to try one and get involved!
See the Northern Lights – In winter, the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Aurora Borealis, illuminates the night sky with beautiful colors. A magical experience!

Take a Flightseeing Tour – Alaska is so big and beautiful you can see it from the air. Fly over glaciers and mountains, and even see whales and bears from above!

Take a bear-watching tour – Alaska is home to many bears, including grizzly bears and black bears. It’s really cool to see them in their natural habitat.

Visit the starting point of the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race – To conclude with, the Iditarod is a famous annual dog sled race held in Anchorage. Incidentally, you can see the musher and his dog before starting the race.
“The Iditarod is a famous annual dog sled race held in Anchorage. You can see the musher and his dog before starting the race.”
Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center – a place to learn more about the different cultures of Alaska Native peoples. You can see their traditional costumes and learn about their way of life.
Take a Glacier Cruise – Alaska is home to some of the world’s largest and most beautiful glaciers. You can take a boat tour to see them up close and sometimes even watch them give birth. All in all, Alaska is a place of adventure, fun, and natural beauty, and a must-see for lovers of the great outdoors and the great outdoors. So pack your bags and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!
Denali Majestic Experience
Among the hotels in Denali National Park, there are hotels that stand out.
Grande Denali Lodge. Indeed, this hotel is a true gem, offering the perfect combination of comfort, luxury and adventure.
In fact, from the moment you arrive, you will be amazed by the lodge’s stunning architecture and beautiful scenery. The lobby is grand and cozy with high ceilings and a roaring fireplace. Furthermore, the staff are friendly, helpful and make you feel right at home. As well as this, their rooms are spacious and well-equipped with comfortable beds, fluffy pillows and modern amenities.
The view from the rooms is great. You can see the mountains and the surrounding wilderness. Feel like you are in nature, but with all the comforts of a hotel.
We stayed in a cabin at the lodge and although it’s more pricey, the extra expense is more then worth it. You get everything you need and the cabins are nothing short of luxurious and plentiful. If you’ve never stayed in a log cabin before, then you will thank me for trying this experience.
the rooms and the lobby lodge is spectacular with cozy attributes like fireplace, restaurant and great service
“If you’ve never stayed in a log cabin before, then you will thank me for trying this experience.”
Actually, one of the best things about the Grande Denali Lodge is its location. The park’s proximity puts you steps away from some of the most popular hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. The hotel also offers a variety of activities and tours, including bus tours of the park, rafting tours, and flightseeing tours that offer a unique way to see Mount Denali.
What is more, the hotel also has various dining options. The main restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine and offers beautiful views of the mountains. Whatever happens, the bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day exploring the park.
In summary, the Grande Denali Lodge is a great place to stay in Denali National Park. To conclude with, the luxurious accommodations, beautiful surroundings and convenient location make it the best hotel in the area. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a comfortable and memorable experience in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.
If you like what you read let me know if there’s anything I left out or if you recommend something else noteworthy.
OllieM Rating Chart:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny ****
Proximity: Close ****
Safety: Safe  *****
Cleanliness: ****
Hospitality: *****
Fun Factor: Woohoo  *****
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults *****
Will we return: YES!  ***
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM
January 20, 2023
Orange Beach Provides Amazing Value For Everyone
I recently had the opportunity to spend a weekend in Orange Beach, Alabama. To say nothing of beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters were just the beginning of the fun. If you’re planning a trip to Orange Beach, here are the top 2 coolest local spots you can’t miss, and local restaurants you won’t be able to resist.
Nature Trail Envy
In all honesty, the Hugh S. Brannion Backcountry Trail tops the must-see list. This beautiful nature trail is the perfect way to get in touch with nature and enjoy the peace and tranquility while taking in stunning vistas. Not to mention, the trails are surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, and it’s easy to lose track of time exploring them all.
Next is the Gulf State Park Pier, a great place to fish and take in breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Not only whether you’re an experienced fisherman or just looking for a fun activity to do with your family, but the pier has something for everyone as well. I loved listening to the atmospheric ambience.
Best Local Eats
On the other hand, let’s talk about food! The first restaurant we visited was Fisher’s at the Orange Beach Marina. To tell the truth, this seafood restaurant is a local favorite and it’s easy to see why. In fact, the menu is packed with delicious seafood dishes like grilled mahi-mahi and seafood platters loaded with fresh shrimp, crab legs and oysters. The food is always fresh and expertly prepared, making Fisher’s a must-visit place in Orange Beach.
“Served with seasoned rice and grilled vegetables, grilled mahi-mahi is a filling treat.”
In the first place, on my list was the grilled mahi-mahi. The fish is perfectly cooked and the zesty citrus sauce complements the natural flavors. Served with seasoned rice and grilled vegetables, grilled mahi-mahi is a filling treat. Alternatively, we had the seafood platter which was bursting with fresh shrimp, crab legs and oysters. As well as the platter also includes sides of crispy fries and coleslaw that perfectly complement the seafood.
Furthermore, we went to Gulf Shores steamer and enjoyed their signature steamed crab legs. Besides, the juicy, succulent meat melted in your mouth and paired perfectly with the garlic butter for dipping. Further, to round off the meal, I enjoyed the roasted red potatoes.
In addition, we tasted gumbo, a rich, flavorful broth filled with juicy shrimp and hearty sausage. What is more, the gumbo is served with plump white rice that balances the spice of the dish.

delicious steamed crab legs served at gulf shores steamer

Orange Beach Gulf State Park Pier at Dusk

Fisher’s at Orange Beach Gulf Shores
In Conclusion
To tell the truth, my trip to Orange Beach turned out to be a seafood lover’s paradise. Indeed, from Fisher’s at the Orange Beach Marina to the Gulf Shores Steamer, you’ll find delicious food to satisfy any appetite. Much less, from grilled fish to steamed crab legs, both restaurants offer a variety of seafood to satisfy every palate. Either places will suit any seafood lover’s palates.
OllieM Rating Chart:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny ****
Proximity: Close ****
Safety: Safe *****
Cleanliness: ***
Hospitality: ****
Fun Factor: Woohoo ***
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults *****
Will we return: YES! ***
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM

January 20, 2023
Hidden Gems of Savannah, Georgia
As a recent visitor of Savannah, Georgia, I’m always excited to share the cool places to discover and the best places to eat in this charming town. Speaking of must-see spots, don’t miss River Street. You can stroll the historic cobbled streets, enjoy river views and shop for souvenirs. Another local favorite is Forsyth Park, a 30-acre park perfect for picnicking, jogging or just relaxing. In addition, let’s not forget the Savannah Historic District. To say nothing of the 22-block area home to many of the city’s oldest and most beautiful buildings, including the birthplace of Juliet Gordon Law.
Some Fun Places on River Street
To tell the truth, one of my favorite things to do is browse the unique boutiques and shops along the street. Here you can find everything from handmade jewelry, souvenirs and local artwork. As you walk from shop to shop, enjoy the sights and sounds of the river and the boats that come and go. Indeed, another must-see on River Street is to enjoy delicious seafood and Southern cuisine. Moreover, on our most recent visit, we had the pleasure of dining at River House Seafood and sampled the juicy fried shrimp and hushpuppies. Not to mention, the price point is moderate but the flavor is robust.
“As you walk from shop to shop, enjoy the sights and sounds of the river and the boats that come and go.”
Additionally, if you’re looking for some outdoor fun, take a walk along the river or take a horse-drawn carriage tour. Not only will you not regret it but you’ll thank me as well. Further, we think these activities are a great way to unwind and relax while immersing yourself in the history and beauty of Savannah.
Forsyth Park
Fortunately during our visit it was a sunny day and we decided to go on a picnic with my friends. We arrived early to stake out near the fountain and spread blankets. We enjoyed the sights and sounds of the park as we unpacked our baskets full of sandwiches, fruit and drinks. Children played on swings and families had picnics on nearby blankets.
We then took a leisurely walk through the park admiring the stunning flowers and plants along the way. We also visited the Garden of Scents, a sensory garden for the disabled, and were struck by the beauty and tranquility of the space.
Throughout the day, we lounged in our blankets, chatted, and stopped occasionally to play frisbee or throw a ball. The breeze was warm and gentle, and the sun was shining on us, making it a perfect picnic day. When the sun finally set, we packed up and said goodbye to Forsyth Park where we had already planned our next picnic. A picnic is an unforgettable experience and a real pleasure.

River Street at dusk in Savannah Georgia

River Street morning light empty streets before the daily rush

Beautiful quintessential American urban Victorian House
My 3 Top Picks of Local Eats
Furthermore, when it comes to food, Savannah has plenty of delicious options, but here are three of the locals favorite’s.
1. The Olde Pink House – This iconic restaurant is known for its signature dish, fried duck breast served with sweet potato hash and blueberry compote. Signature drinks include the Pink Lady Cocktail and Peach Bellini.
2. Treylor Park – In all honesty, if you’re looking for a fun, casual atmosphere, this is the place. Don’t miss the loaded tater tots. In fact, try the Trailer Park Punch, a refreshing blend of vodka, lemon, and basil.
3. The Gray – Housed in a former Greyhound bus station, this elegant restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu with an emphasis on Southern cuisine. Fried chicken and donuts are a must. Don’t miss the Charleston Light Dragoon’s Punch, a blend of aged rum, brandy and sherry.
  These are just a few of the many great restaurants and attractions in Savannah, Georgia. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you’re sure to have a great time exploring this city and all it has to offer!
OllieM Rating Chart:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny *****
Proximity: Close *****
Safety: Safe *****
Cleanliness: ***
Hospitality: ****
Fun Factor: Woohoo ****
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults ****
Will we return: YES! ****
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM
January 20, 2023
Ocho Rios: Tourists Aren’t Supposed To Know This
As a self-proclaimed foodie, I have traveled the world in search of the best cuisine. And I must say that my recent visit to the single best restaurant in Ocho Rios, Jamaica left a lasting impression on my taste buds. From the moment I walked in, I knew I would be delighted.
The atmosphere was lively, with the sounds of Caribbean music filling the air and the scent of exotic spices wafting through the room.
The Best Fried Chicken in Ocho Rios
And what a menu! The variety of dishes was overwhelming and they all sounded better than before. I started with the ‘Jamaican Fried Chicken’ and I have to say it was the best I’ve ever had. The chicken was cooked to perfection and the spices were perfectly balanced causing an explosion of flavors in my mouth.
Next came the ‘Curry Goat’ which was just as great as the chicken. Secondly, the goat was slow cooked to perfection and the curry sauce was rich and flavorful. Subsequently, the combination of spices was exquisite and I couldn’t help but take a bite. But the real star of the show was the Secret sauce, a gravy unlike any I’ve ever tried. That being the case, it was an amalgamation of flavors that were perfectly combined to create a unique and satisfying taste. As a result, it was the highlight of my meal and I will be dreaming about it for days to come.
Unbelievable Soup de Jour
And to top off this wonderful meal, I tried the ‘chicken foot soup’. To say nothing of the explosion in my mouth would be an injustice. To begin with, the base is made of pumpkin. As a result, it’s very thick and creamy but without the additives. Because of this, your taste buds explode due to the natural flavors contained in the pumpkin. What is more is that I ordered it without any food (soup only). That being the case, it was fabulous just the same.
And so, my visit to ‘Simply The Best Restaurant’ in Ocho Rios was a true culinary adventure. Hence, the food was excellent, the atmosphere was lively and the service was top notch. Granting that you’re a foodie like me, I highly recommend adding this restaurant to your bucket list. With this in mind, you won’t be disappointed.
OllieM Rating Chart:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny ****
Proximity: Close  ****
Safety: Safe *****
Cleanliness: ***
Hospitality: *****
Fun Factor: Woohoo  ***
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults  ****
Will we return: YES! *****
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM
January 15, 2023
People aren’t supposed to know this about Las Vegas.
Las Vegas, also known as Sin City, is a city like no other. It’s a place where you can let loose and indulge in all your wildest dreams. I recently visited Las Vegas and it was an experience I will never forget.
As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the bright lights and towering casinos that lined the famous Las Vegas Strip. The energy and excitement of the city was palpable and I couldn’t wait to explore.
My first stop was the Bellagio, a luxurious hotel and casino that is famous for its breathtaking fountain show. I watched in awe as the fountains danced to the music, and the colorful lights illuminated the night sky.
Next, I visited the iconic Caesar’s Palace, where I had the opportunity to see a show by the legendary Celine Dion. She put on an incredible performance and I felt like I was witnessing history in the making.
But the real highlight of my trip was the night I spent at the Wynn, one of the most luxurious hotels on the Strip. I had a suite with a view of the Las Vegas skyline and it was simply breathtaking. I also had the opportunity to try my luck at the Wynn’s casino, where I hit a big win at the slots.
Las Vegas is not just about casinos and shows, it also has a lot of natural beauty to offer. I took a day trip to the nearby Red Rock Canyon, where I hiked through the stunning desert landscape and saw some of the most breathtaking views of my life.
I also visited the Hoover Dam, a marvel of engineering and a true testament to human ingenuity. It was an unforgettable experience to stand at the top of the dam and look out over the vast expanse of the Colorado River.
Las Vegas is a city that truly has it all. From world-class entertainment to natural beauty, it offers something for everyone. I will definitely be back to Sin City in the future, to indulge in more of its vices and wonders.
January 15, 2023
Tuscany: Amazing Value & a Foodie’s Paradise
Located in central Italy, Tuscany is known for its stunning scenery, charming villages and delicious cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, there are some places you shouldn’t miss.
Florence is one of the tourist attractions in Tuscany. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is home to many famous museums and historic monuments such as the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. Visitors can also stroll the charming streets of the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and small family-run boutiques. Secondly, another must-see in Tuscany is the hill town of Siena. Known as Ile he Campo, its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous Palio horse race. Siena is also known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Whereas, for those who want to experience the beautiful Tuscan countryside, a visit to the Chianti wine region is a must. Chianti’s rolling hills and scenic vineyards are perfect for scenic drives and guided wine tours. Conversely, visitors can also stop by a local winery to taste famous Chianti Classico wines and enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine. Even more, Tuscany is famous for its delicious and hearty cuisine. Some of the best regional dishes include pasta with wild boar sauce, ribollita soup, and bistecca alla fiorentina (a large grilled T-bone steak).
Trattoria Mario, Florence
Above all, if you’re looking for the best places to eat in Florence, Trattoria Mario is a hotspot for traditional Tuscan cuisine. Granting that, this family-run trattoria in the heart of Florence has been serving delicious, authentic cuisine for over 50 years. One of Trattoria Mario’s standout dishes is pasta with wild boar sauce. In the first place, a dish that is irresistible for meat lovers, with plump wild boar meat mixed with a rich sauce. Next, another very popular dish is the bistecca alla fiorentina. This is a large grilled T-bone steak cooked to perfection and served with roasted vegetables.
“She is known for her warm personality and her ability to make guests feel at home. She can recommend the best food and wine based on your tastes.”
Anyhow, Trattoria Mario is known not only for its delicious food, but also for its friendly and attentive service. One outstanding waitress is Ginevra, and she has worked there for over 20 years. She is known for her warm personality and her ability to make guests feel at home. She can recommend the best food and wine based on your tastes. When we visited she recommended we start with Ribollita Soup and I’m glad we took her advice. It was superb. For our main course we had to try the wild boar and I can truly say – it was an unforgettable memory. The richness of the sauce stays with you for a lifetime.
Trattoria La Torre, Siena
Trattoria La Torre is a hidden gem in the heart of Siena. Tucked away in one of Siena’s charming streets, Trattoria La Torre is a hidden gem offering the true taste of traditional Tuscan cuisine. To begin with, this cozy, family-run trattoria has been serving delicious food for over 30 years. One of their signature dishes at Trattoria La Torre is homemade pasta with wild mushroom sauce. With fresh local mushrooms and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is a must for pasta lovers. My wife had this dish and she can’t wait to return for another round.
Another popular dish is the ‘pici’ pasta with truffle sauce. This is thick hand-rolled pasta that is perfectly cooked and served with truffle sauce. The truffles are collected by the owner himself. I actually had this and my taste buds were jumping for joy. The truffle sauce is mind blowing.
In addition to its delicious cuisine, Trattoria La Torre is known for its intimate and warm atmosphere. Our waitress was Rossella, who has been working at the trattoria for over 15 years. She is known for her friendly personality and her ability to make guests feel like part of her family. She will recommend the best dishes based on your tastes and will also tell you the story behind the dishes.
If you’re looking for traditional Tuscan cuisine in a homely setting, Trattoria La Torre is the place to go. With homemade pasta, friendly service and a cozy atmosphere, it’s no wonder this trattoria has long been a favorite with locals and visitors alike.
Overall, Tuscany has a wealth of culture, history and beautiful landscapes. With its quaint streets, delicious food and wine, and charming villages, Tuscany is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
OllieM Rating:
Price Value: Worth Every Penny *****
Proximity: Close ****
Safety: Safe *****
Cleanliness: ****
Hospitality: *****
Fun Factor: Woohoo ****
Great for Kids and Adults: Kids and Adults ***
Will we return: YES! ****
Ollie D is the leading contributor at OllieM

January 15, 2023

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