San Diego Skyline from Cabrillo National Monument

Just After Sunset in La Jolla

First Sunset of the New Year

H'mong Girls - Lao Chai, Vietnam

We traveled to a H'mong village by motorbike and these adorable girls were putting on a show as we walked through.  The five of them danced with a box for donations to their right.  The sign read, "We really need your contribution for helping H'mong's pupils. Thank you!"

Sunrise at Bryce Amphitheater at Bryce Canyon National Park

I got up very early and went to Bryce Point while it was still dark to see the sunrise at Bryce Amphitheater.  I'd read that Bryce Point was the best spot to take pictures at this time.  Also, at this spot you can see all around you. Bryce Point kind of juts out and the Amphitheater surrounds you.  I arrived at the same time as another couple and we were the first ones to Bryce Point.  As the sun begins to peak out more people come to this spot.  For a good view during sunrise you have to get there while it is still dark.  I got there maybe 10 minutes before sunrise and beat the crowd.

As the sun comes out the hoodoos turn bright orange.  They only look like this when the sun hits them at the right angle...during sunrise and sunset.  As the sun gets higher the hoodoos look more and more washed out.  Sunrise is the time to see them!

Columbus Adventure Travel and 2 Day Pinta Cruiser in Halong Bay - Great Experience!

I did a lot of research prior to taking my trip to Vietnam.  Halong Bay is a popular tourist spot in Vietnam and I wanted to experience the true beauty and solitude of this area.  After researching, I found a cruise line that offered at 2 day cruise in Halong Bay and had one of three permits to dock in Bai Tu Long Bay away from the tourist crowds.  All overnight cruises must dock in certain areas. All other boats have to dock in the same bay...so you're  "out in the middle of nowhere", but not so alone.  Many complaints noted that they could hear generators running from all the boats around them after they anchored at night.  With the Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay Pinta Cruise (2 day - 1 night) tour I was able to hear the water and .....nothing.  Only one other boat was docked in the bay with us and it was far away.

I recommend this cruise. As mentioned, I did the 2 day - 1 night cruise.  Others on the boat stayed an extra night for a 3 day - 2 night cruise. Staff was friendly, food was FANTASTIC and plentiful, and the scenery was breathtaking (to say the least).  The cruise also included kayaking.  Most other tours include this at an extra charge, but it was free with the Pinta Cruiser.  They brought us to a secluded (everything is secluded..lol) lagoon and we kayaked through caves/tunnels to an opening.  The landscape was so lush and we could hear birds and something that sounded like monkeys.  Once again, we were the only boat in the area and the only ones kayaking.  We'd see a houseboat and some local fisherman, but that was about it.

Another plus, this cruise was only $89.  Considering what it included (transportation, friendly service, an abundance of food, and a great experience) this was a deal. I know I was searching high and low for reviews before I took my trip.  Figured I'd do my part and post one of my own. Hope this helps someone.  Columbus Adventure Travel was reliable and provided great service for the money.

Columbus Adventure Travel - Pinta Cruiser

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