Beginning in the 1700s Murrells Inlet made its debut in the rice industry and had cultivated close to 47 million pounds of rice by 1850. This lucrative business made many South Carolina rice planters very wealthy including one Joseph Alston, who eventually became South Carolina’s governor. To many people’s surprise, during this time, rice planters in South Carolina became wealthier and more powerful than their tobacco and sugar plantation counterparts in the southeast. Unfortunately, the success and wealth of rice plantations came to an abrupt halt in 1863 when the Civil War intruded on the shores of Murrells Inlet. Confederate troops were secretly using the inlet as a port to send products such as cotton to England in exchange for medicine, food and other war supplies. When the Union learned of this their warships attacked the confederate blockade destroying part of the inlet and a large portion of the rice industry. Although no one could predict this at the time, between the Civil War and a series of hurricanes that followed, South Carolina’s rice industry would be completely gone by 1916.

Following the Civil War, South Carolina in general and Murrells Inlet specifically got into the commercial fishing industry and by 1914 were offering fishing excursions as a recreational opportunity for guests and locals of Murrells Inlet. The commercial fishing industry became an advantageous market for Murrells Inlet although it never became the behemoth that the rice plantations developed into. As a couple decades past on and the Great Depression assaulted the majority of the United States, Murrells Inlet had a bit of good fortune in New York millionaire, Archer Milton Huntington when he rolled into town. Huntington had plans to build an audacious compound for himself and his wife, Anna Hyatt Huntington. Mr. Huntington commissioned all local workers to develop his 9,000 acre estate including brick masons, carpenters, landscapers and painters. Not only did he spend millions of dollars on his homestead, he also funded a community center, medical clinic and church for the people of Murrells Inlet.

Murrells Inlet is a hidden gem of abundant history and enchanting stories for all ages to enjoy. Just 20 minutes from Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is an ideal family vacation destination.

Imagine my surprise to learn that the Alabama Gulf Coast also has a rich history where the landscape was inhabited by sloth, mammoth and mastodons!

How can it be that the same creatures were able to survive (well for a time, at least) in two such different and opposing climates?

Visitors can further their understanding of the Gulf Shores, Alabama sea life and land creatures with the help of the Weeks Bay Foundation.  This intricate landscape encompasses over 6,000 acres of land and water in and around the Weeks and Mobile Bay areas. Visitors should take advantage of the free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks.

As you’re enjoying the beachfronts, waterways and local eats, can you imagine what it would’ve looked like 11,000 years ago with mastodons, sloths and mammoths roaming the neighborhoods?

Do you think you could trace their steps forward to see what has evolved as modern day creatures inhabiting the area?

How many of them are now celebrated with local festivals or served regularly at the nearby restaurants?

Rev up your imagination, grab the kids and begin exploring the Gulf Shores of Alabama with the mindset of a paleontologist or archaeologist and create your own stories of evolution and adaptation of the species on the daily menu or strolling the beaches.

Known as “The Soul of Seattle,” Pike Place Market was originally brought to life on August 17, 1907 when farmers brought their produce directly to the people of Seattle who showed up in overwhelming numbers. The farmers’ goods were sold out by 11:00 am thus beginning a supply and demand market that opened its own building with every space filled by the end of that first year. Today, the market is internationally known as America’s premier farmers’ market housing over 200 year round businesses.

“The Market,” as it is known by the locals, pulls in nearly 10 million visitors a year to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment provided by street performers and musicians. The Market remains open during the renovation and with Phase II of IV wrapping up this month many businesses will be relocated back to their original locations and seasonal vendors returning. Heritage Tours also continue during construction and are offered daily each weekday but must be scheduled in advance. See The Market Foundation for more information on tours that will illustrate The Market in a way many visitors never get to see.  

To get the full experience of The Market, we recommend a multi-day visit. While touring Seattle, stay only minutes from all the shopping and entertainment at Hotel Five, one of the premier hotels in Seattle. With plush mattresses and linens, a breakfast and lunch café, business traveler amenities, and a well-equipped fitness center, Hotel Five is centrally located to be your home away from home while visiting the historic Pike Place Market and the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington.

Pike Place Market photo made possible by Creative Commons.

Currently, there are eleven Marine Life Conservation Districts established around the islands that preserve the glorious natural beauty that Hawaii has to offer. The conservation districts are essential for local residents and have also become preferred spots for diving, snorkeling and other underwater activities. Get to know a little about the Honolua-Mokule’ia Bay District here:

• Both bays are located near Kapalua Resort in Maui, Hawaii. Kapalua Resort is proud to persevere in its mission to maintain the 22,000 acres it rests on and keep it established as not only luxury lodging, but as a safe place for the flora and fauna and fishes of the area.

• Mokule’ia Bay is known to the locals simply as “slaughterhouse”. Years ago a slaughterhouse and tanning (animal hide tanning that is) shop was located directly on the edge of the cliffs that overlook the beach. The slaughterhouse closed more than fifty years ago.

• Both Honolua and Mokule’ia Bays were established in 1978 and are comprised of 45 acres.

• Honolua means “Two Bays”

• There are over 400 species of fishes in the coastal waters of Hawaii including those found in Honolua and Mokule’ia Bays.

    Take a walk on the wild side at Forever Florida. Forever Florida is a Sunshine State hotspot for travelers who want to venture off the beaten path, and make their Floridian vacation an authentic one.
    A unique piece of Florida’s rich history, Forever Florida offers many activities that the whole family will enjoy.

• If you’re into high-flying adventure, take a trip on Florida’s first and only Zip Line Safari.
• Choose from a day or night tour and soar 55 feet over Florida vegetation and wetlands.

    The Zip Line Safari can amass speeds of up to 25 MPH. While you’re up there, keep an eye out for exciting wildlife especially at night! Don’t worry, if you miss any animals on your way down, stop by the wildlife interaction area at the end of the zip line to see alligators, a hybrid panther and more!
    If you prefer a more “grounded” excursion, try a Horseback Safari or Rawhide Roundup.

• The Horseback Safaris can last between two and three hours and will take you through acres of gorgeous Florida wildlife conservation, including nine ecosystems.
• If there is a history buff in your group, you’ll be traveling over historic trails that date back to the 1500’s.

    For those that have been dying to wear the cowboy boots in their closet, take advantage of the Rawhide Roundup. Spend the day with a genuine Cow Hunter on a cattle herd through Crescent J Ranch.

• Hands on experience will teach you the ins and outs of daily life on a Florida ranch.
• Again for those history lovers, the cattle you herd are Spanish Colonial Cattle and could be descendents of the cattle brought to Florida by Ponce De Leon in 1521.

    More relaxing, but just as exploratory, a Coach Safari is another option during your time at Forever Florida. You’ll sit in an open-air safari coach while you make your way through acres of conservation.

• The coach is elevated five feet above ground so sightseeing can be enjoyed by all.
• Keep your eye out for panthers, black bears and white-tail deer as many animals make their homes on the lush property. 

   After you’ve spent the day enjoying the wilds of Florida, retire to the comfort of your Orlando vacation rental. Lounge by the pool or relax in your Jacuzzi, and gear up for whatever adventure is next.

Newport offers a little something for everyone, from exhilarating nautical excursions to leisurely strolls through famous mansions and vineyards.  For those who enjoy early American history, Newport is not to be missed.  Beautiful New England scenery provides a dramatic backdrop for the amazing architecture of the gilded age.  Stroll through homes that were built by Vanderbilts and Astors, check out some of the historic forts and museums, or spend a day relaxing at the spa.  You’re sure to be taken with the rich history of the area.

To really experience the charm of the area, check out one of the charming Newport bed and breakfasts.  Many are within walking distance of the downtown and beachfront areas, and provide a feeling of stepping back in time without sacrificing modern comforts.

Check out Newport, Rhode Island -you’re sure to be pleased!

Images Courtesy Sarunas B

I remember reading Edward Abbey’s Desert Solitaire in high school and imagining the Great Southwest to be a vast land of rock and caves where the ancient Anasazi Indians made their lives as cliff dwellers going in and out of our world through their time machines known as kivas. 

Ten years ago I, personally, made the move from out east to Colorado and have since thoroughly enjoyed exploring Colorado’s southwest corner and Utah’s canyonland areas where Mr. Abby spent some time learning and writing about that rugged and ancient terrain.

Just outside of Dolores, Colorado you will find The Anasazi Heritage Center where guests can see, touch and learn about the Four Corners “prehistory” era.  There are roughly 3 million records and artifacts that make up the Center’s attractions.

The Anasazi Heritage Center also represents the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument.  Here you will find a pre-Puebloan culture that dates back to at least 10,000 years.  Evidence of their villages still remains for visitors to see.  The Canyons of the Ancients is a vast land protected by the BLM and is open for exploration but one must be very careful and respect these ancestral ruins.  Leave no trace as they say and “they” (Bureau of Land Management) mean it.

Mesa Verde country consists of just about every type of terrain so that all kinds of recreation can exist.  Everything that can be done outdoors, even skiing, can be done in Mesa Verde country.  To me, the best way to experience and explore this country is on foot and since we are talking about the desert that means lots of sun and heat in the summer.  Use common sense and hike during the morning or dusk hours and not during the middle of the day when the sun is at its’ highest.  One can find camping in designated areas to really get the feel of day turning into night.

So, if you ever find yourself traveling from Denver going west and if you have a couple of days to spare consider the Mesa Verde Country in southwest Colorado.  Experience a beautiful and ancient land which is home of the modern day Pueblo People, descendants of the Ancient Anasazi Indians.       

Mesa Verde Overlook by Mulsanne

Mesa Verde Kiva by norrisbaby

Mesa Verde by neuroticcamel

The entire 5,700 acre barrier island is an historic area and nature preserve. Combine these attractions with the Atlantic seashore, a mild climate, tennis and golf and you have an ideal vacation destination for the whole family.

The Villas By The Sea, on the northern end of Jekyll, offers a wide choice of modern accommodations, all the desirable resort amenities and some of the best Jekyll Island Golf Packages. Choose between 10 great coastal Georgia golf courses, including the 3 located right on the island.

There are plenty of opportunities to relish the long, varied lore of the island – an interesting mix of colonial settlement, slavery, wealth, privilege and politics – in the National Historic Landmark District, which includes the famous Jekyll Island Club, a haunt of the rich and famous.

Children will enjoy the sense of freedom afforded by the bike paths that lace the island, the magnolia and live oak lined nature trails and the boardwalks that transport them over the protective dunes to natural beach areas. The highlight of any trip is a night time Turtle Walk to view the nesting sea turtles who come ashore every summer to lay their eggs.

If you’re looking for a active, yet relaxing family beach vacation, be sure to check out Jekyll Island – a destination everyone will enjoy.

Originally known as “Black River,” Chester was established in the early 1700’s along a network of dirt indian trails barely wide enough for a lone horseman that criss-crossed the densely wooded areas of New England. It was by these trails that a group of adventurous settlers from Southold and Easthampton, Long Island, first came to the green hills of Morris County. Two of those trails converged in the area that the Minisink Indians called “Almatunk,” “black earth bottom” for Black River – hence the original name of Black River.

In the 1970’s the Borough of Chester underwent major renovations and many unique and tourist-friendly shops were added to bring new life to an old village. Lodging is available in Chester or approximately 20 minutes away in Morristown, NJ. Check out The Madison Hotel for a Morristown Lodging option.