Up Up and Away in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is known as the world's premier event. My first Hot Air Balloon experience was in the Philippines.  Attending the one in New Mexico was on my bucket list.  I made it there in October 2014!

It was a beautiful and colorful morning! I watched how they prepared balloons for taking off. Unfortunately, due to the wind situation that morning, the balloons didn't ascend. Nevertheless, it was so amazing to see those gigantic and colorful balloons. The twilight twinkle glow event that night was so enchanting.  Can you imagine a vast field full of balloons dancing with the music? It was such a fun and entertaining show!

Nothing was as nice as having a relaxing day in nice weather on the grass, with my book and watching people having a great time. Since I am in New Mexico, Mexican food is a must, so I had it.

I knew that the event would be a great festival headline news. I wrote a CNN iReport, and as expected, my reports were vetted and featured as the travel photo of the day.

To maximize my trip, I went to "Old Town," a quaint town that is called the heart of Albuquerque. I walked around the town. I watched performers at the plaza. I visited the local shop, galleries, museums, and the San Felipe De Neri church.

I had a taste of Mexico in New Mexico; It's a prelude to my Mexico trip soon. This is one of my favorite places and events  . . . Yes, I had a wonderful time!

Old Town, Albuquerque

A Peek at Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. To see this wonderful creation is a travel milestone. The size and beauty are overwhelming!

Seeing the Grand Canyon in 2005 with my kids was memorable. They were able to experience it, even though they have very little memory of the trip. It was their first time to see snow on the ground. We also saw the Hoover Dam on our road trip to Grand Canyon.

I went back to Arizona in 2014, this time to visit a great friend, Hazel,  in Goodyear. Not having seen each other in 5 years was an emotional meeting. My other great friend, Rousel, joined me on this trip. We had sumptuous fiesta food, a karaoke night with wine, and endless chat. It was a wonderful time!

Cactus is a common outdoor view in Arizona, and a photo opportunity is necessary. On our road trip, we saw many palm trees, and it reminded us of Florida. The weather is similar. I love it. And of course, catching a beautiful sunset on the road is always nice. 

I am always welcome to visit my friend, Hazel. I will find a time to revisit and use that opportunity to see other nice places in Arizona.

Grand Canyon

Cactus in Phoenix

Hazel's house in Goodyear

Arizona State Building

Sunset

Lighthouse in Portland, Maine

 

I have always been fascinated with lighthouses. Hence, I have a goal to visit as many lighthouses as I can. I wanted to have a special birthday trip in 2014, and I chose to visit Portland to experience my first lighthouse in the U.S.

 

Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. It is iconic and the most photographic in New England. According to the record, it was first lighted in January 1791. 

 

A trolley tour brought me to explore the beautiful city and waterways. I had a chance to visit the Portland Museum of Art.  The pieces of art and history are very impressive. 

 

Just because lobster is a big thing in Maine; I had to try it myself. So I had dinner at Bay View restaurant and ordered a lobster soup, which I thought was great. 

 

Maine has more than 60 lighthouses on the coastline. I know for sure that I would explore some of them in the future. 

 

Some trips are not perfect, and this one was not. It was unfortunate that I lost my favorite necklace that has my name on it. It was precious to me, and I felt sad losing it. However, I always believe that material things are replaceable and good memories are not.

 

My monunent in New Orleans, Louisiana

The "Pelican State."

When we hear New Orleans, Lousiana, the first thing that comes to our mind is Mardi Gras. It was not Mardi Gras season when I was there, but I had a glimpse of this beautiful city. A famous place, one of the most culturally and historically rich destinations where everybody wants to visit.

A ride on the train, a walk on the French Quarter, and a Mississippi River view was my great experiences in New Orleans. 

At Woldenberg Riverfront Park, a "Monument to the Immigrant" is seen erected. That's for me! 

I definitely will revisit New Orleans, and when I do, I will make sure I have my Mardi Gras experience. 

Train ride to downtown

Mississippi River

Monument to the Immigrant

Port of New Orleans

Downtown

Cruises & Theme Parks in California

“The Golden State”

California is one of the first States I’ve visited. Because of the great weather, which is somewhat like the Philippines, Filipinos love to visit or live here.

My earlier trips to California included a trip with my kids when they were young. A visit to Disneyland, San Francisco, and Harbor Cruise experience were the highlights of our trip. Those are wonderful memories.

I’ve also explored Los Angeles, including Rodeo Drive and Hollywood, and the San Jose area, including Silicon Valley. I’ve seen beautiful views on a road trip from LA to San Jose.

My recent visit was with my kids in San Diego.  It was my daughter’s wish to see San Diego. I am glad she convinced me, as we had a great trip.  I was surprised at how beautiful it is there.  The harbor and trolley tours took us to nice places, including Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island, which are my two favorites.

 

California's motto is "Eureka," meaning I have found it. There you go . . . I've found my name on the street of Little Italy in San Diego. Was it a coincidence? Maybe.

 

California is big and has many beautiful places to explore.  My imminent list to visit includes Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, and Venice Beach, to name a few. 

 

I have few friends who live here, too. So I say, "I shall return."

San Diego Harbor

My attempt to dive

Old Town San Diego

Eureka! found my name in Little Italy, San Diego

Hollywood