I have been a fan of V.E. Schwab ever since I read The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue about five years ago. At that time I did not see myself as a fantasy reader. But Schwab changed that with her unique style of reality against fantasy and good against evil. I have read a lot of her work since Addie LaRue, and this week I’m sharing another favorite. Here is my Book Review Vicious by V.E.Schwab.
Ambition
The underlying theme of this mind-bending book is ambition and the evil it begets. The book bounces back and forth over a decade time frame with two brilliant college roommates, Eli & Victor, creating a chaotic and dangerous game for their Senior Thesis. When things go terribly wrong, people start to die. Ambition gets the better of the friends, and they turn against each other after their fascinating discovery – how to create supernatural powers in humans.
Revenge
Victor will end up in prison for ten years, while Eli spends the decade trying to eradicate every other human with super powers. When Victor gets out of prison, he has one goal…revenge. Eli’s own superpower is to heal himself, while his girlfriend has the power to make others obey her. Meanwhile Victor has his own power to give and take-away pain. He meets Sydney, who is running from Eli and has her own remarkable superpower, and with Victor’s prison mate Mitch they hatch a plan to do away with Eli once and for all.
Book Review Vicious by V.E.Schwab
I really enjoyed this book and found the characters were fascinating and well developed. The story line is fast paced and violent but kept my attention, right up to the final sentence. It’s a story about loneliness, and searching for meaning. It is a story about family and grief and how a superpower is not always about being a hero. It can be about becoming vicious. It’s a story about redemption and bending reality, while coming back around to the strength of friendship.
*****Five stars for Vicious by V.E. Schwab.
Thanks for reading my Book Review Vicious by V.E.Schwab. See last week’s book review Unshackeled by Amanda DuBois. We love it when you comment, pin and share our book reviews. Thank you.
One of the most frequent questions I get asked is; “How do you find information and decide where to go and what to do when making travel plans?” In today’s world where we have a computer in our pocket, it is so incredibly easy! I can’t imagine trying to live a full-time travel life 30 years ago without the instant access we have now. Today travel apps, travel blogs and Pinterest are my go to source for ideas on places to travel and things to do.
That said, it can also be overwhelming because there is SO MUCH information out there. Where to start? I recommend you narrow it down and one of my favorite apps is GPSMyCity. You have seen me mention GPSMyCity multiple times in my blog posts over the years. It is a great place to get guided map tours, as well as read travel articles from experienced travel writers…like me! It’s fun to Travel Smart and Easy with GPS My City App.
Why GPS My City?
This app is great…and it just keeps getting better. For years we have used it for guided walking tour all around the world. Now, travel writers like myself will have featured articles you can download directly through the GPSMyCity App. Once downloaded it will be available to you to use, even without internet connection.
I am partnering with GPSMyCity, as one of their featured travel writers. For a limited time (July 7-21, 2025) my readers will have access via the GPSMyCity app to three of my articles FREE of charge;
It’s an awesome opportunity to check out GPSMyCity, and get to know a fabulous travel planning tool. A tool that I have used around the world in many of the 147 countries to learn, grow and experience the rich cultures and history of the world. Just like me, you can Travel Smart and Easy with GPS My City App.
Next use the search bar to type in any destination. Chances are good you will find a travel article (maybe mine!) for the destination you want to explore.
Next download the articles so you have access to them offline…then get ready to explore!
Try It Today
Want to try it? You definitely should. Click and get started at www.GPSMyCity.com and be sure to check out my free featured articles between July 7-21 so you can Travel Smart and Easy with GPS My City App.
Port Gamble, Washington, at the northern tip of the Kitsap Peninsula, is a historic mill town. Founded in 1853 by Pope and Talbot’s Puget Mill Company. Originally known as Teekalet, the name was changed to Port Gamble after the bay it is situated on. Let me tell you about one of my favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
Stroll around this preserved mill town
History
Founders Josiah Keller, William Talbot, and Andrew Pope developed the company town reflecting the New England style of East Machias, Maine. Port Gamble served as a lumber community, shipping lumber worldwide. After 142 years, the mill closed in 1995. The town has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark District, showcasing its unique 19th-century architecture.
So many historic buildings to admire
Entrance to the Historic Museum
Registered Historic Landmark
Where is Port Gamble
It’s a perfect stop for travelers headed to the Olympic Peninsula via Bainbridge Island or the Kitsap Peninsula. An unincorporated community, it is part of the Port Gamble Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. Port Gamble sits on the west side of of Port Gamble Bay and near the shores of Hood Canal. The Port Gamble S’Kallam Reservation is on the east side. It is definitely a Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
A perfect place to order a take away lunch and wander down to the picnic tables with a view. Easy to order ahead on the website. There are a few tables inside too and a great espresso stand.
Butcher Baker Provisions is housed in a historic service station
Shared this giant fried chicken sandwich with my mom. It was amazing
You must spend some time in this unique shop with a wonderful selection of unique items. For gifts or for yourself, it’s hard to leave the Port Gamble General Store without a treasure. A small cafe in the back serves sandwiches and ice cream. A new restaurant is slated for late 2025 as well.
With extra time you should visit this lovely forested 3500 acre park. Trails for walking, biking, and horses, and access to water for kayaks. Just south of the town of Port Gamble.
Port Gamble Heritage Forest Park
Make a Visit
Port Gamble is close to many other fabulous Kitsap Peninsula destinations like Poulsbo and Bainbridge. It is also an easy day trip from Bremerton, Tacoma, or Seattle. Make a visit to this true hidden gem, and step back in time for a perfect day. It is a favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
You may read this title and think – Portland is not a hidden gem. I absolutely agree! Quirky and delicious Portland is far from a hidden gem. It is a well known Oregon destination and Oregon’s largest city (620,000). But tucked away in its fabulous little neighborhoods are many wonderful places that are hidden gems. And a few of those I am going to share with you in today’s post, Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon. And don’t miss a special offer in this post for a special Portland tour…
Welcome to Oregon
Portlandia
The land of Portland is home to many iconic places including Powell’s City Books, Voodoo Donuts, The Pearl, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland Japanese Garden, McMenamins and the Portland Trail Blazers – to name a few. All of these awesome and well known. But on our recent visit to Portland we set out to visit new to us places. We were looking for places that locals likely know, but me as a visitor had yet to explore. We found a colorful and fun collection of Portland treasures. So here they are, my hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon. I welcome you to add more in the comments!
The famous Portland Oregon sign
Go Outside
My visits to Portland have always been brief – a day or two at the most. But I had a little more time on this long weekend, so we made a point to enjoy some outdoor hiking and flower sniffing;
This immense urban forest park covers more than 5100 acres with over 80 miles of trails. We were astonished by the vast park just west of the city of Portland. We did a five mile hike through thick forests and shared the trail with a few other hikers, walkers and mountain bikers. It was beautiful, peaceful and a true hidden gem.
Not to be missed, the hillside Hoyt Arboretum is a testament to Portland’s forefathers who valued forests and education and had the foresight to preserve this beautiful space. Open year around and FREE OF CHARGE this amazing park is home to 2300 species from around the world. I highly recommend it..
I don’t know how I have never been here. We were lucky to visit during the peak of rose season, and we absolutely marveled in this free park, home to 10,000 individual rose bushes. Founded in 1889, the Portland Rose Society is a nonprofit organization offering educational programs on rose culture and encouraging the use of roses in the landscape. The primary purpose of the garden is to serve as a testing ground for new rose varieties. I will certainly visit here again in the future.
A definite hidden gem. I will stay here again. We chose this hotel because it was close to Keller Auditorium where we were seeing Elvis Costello in concert. It’s a bit south as far as downtown is laid out, but we walked everywhere (five minutes to the river and 15 minutes to the Pearl). For only about $160 a night we had a comfortable room, secure parking (extra), beautiful patio, breakfast, excellent happy hour and a free s’mores hour. How fun is that?
Comfy room at Hotel Zags
Funky and fun art at Hotel Zags – a definite hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest
Happy Hour at Hotel Zags
S’mores Hour every night at Hotel Zags
Wander Wonder
On Saturday we decided to just wander, both on foot and in the car and here are a few hidden gems we discovered along the way;
Southeast Division street is one of Portland’s coolest neighborhoods with eclectic mix of funky, fun and food too. We were not looking for anything specific, but I had never wandered this area, so that is exactly what we did. Great coffee shops, restaurants, vintage, book store and more.
Not a hidden gem for locals, this riverside market is celebrating 50 years, and is one of the original outdoor markets. Today every town seems to have a farmers or craft market. But this one is tried and true and not to be missed when visiting Portland on a weekend.
Serving Portland since 1919, they don’t make ’em like this anymore. Selling classic western, cowboy boots, Pendleton blankets and more. It’s like stepping back in time.
Yep. I said Ghost Tour. We have done one other Ghost Tour in our travels and loved it. A Ghost Tour is much like a walking history tour, but with some terrifically tragic history and often debauchery thrown in. We booked with USA Ghost Adventures (similar tours around the country) and our Portland Ghost Tour guide Victoria Rose was spot on for the theme. Dressed the part and with a wonderful tour presentation, which she told me she had worked to develop and present over a decade. Portland has some sad events, much like most of the rough and tumble west coast cities that developed in the 1800’s. We learned about the Shanghai Tunnels, Portland’s Chinatown (once one of the largest in the country and today just a shell of itself), the tuberculosis plague, prohibition and prostitution. The tour ended at what is considered one of the city’s most haunted space – a parking lot. Here the site of a mass grave for dozens if not hundreds of the Chinook Nation. After three structures burnt to the ground on this property, no one will build there and it is a parking lot.
Learning Portland History
Old Town
I am a ghost skeptic, but I enjoyed the tour a lot, learned great history and stories and found our guide very entertaining. I highly recommend it for something educational, fun and fantastical. And if you book this tour (or maybe you want to try the Lizzie Borden tour), my readers get a 10% discount. So why not try it? Use Code FAB50S when booking at US Ghost Tours – if you dare…
Lots of tunnels run under our feet in Old Town
Victoria Rose had a fun and engaging tour
A little editing magic to this photo for a spooky effect
Fill Your Belly
Of course no matter where we are, food plays a big part in our travels. Portland is a wonderful foodie city, with something for everyone. We went in search of new-to-us places – from one of Portland’s top rated restaurants to Portland’s famous Food Truck Pods. Here is what we found;
Portland is home to 76 Food Truck “pods” as they are called here, with more than 500 food trucks/carts active. Isn’t that amazing? Though not the original city to host food trucks, Portland was one of the earliest municipalities to embrace this food culture. Today it is a integral part of this foodie town. We had never explored the “pods” located on the east side of the river, so on this trip we drove to the Hawthorne Asylum Food Pod located in Southeast Portland. We found street parking and enjoyed this colorful and busy spot, with delicious local beer too. I would go back here for sure.
As many of our readers know, we like beer. Well my husband loves beer. And Portland, like much of the Pacific Northwest, is a beer lover’s haven. Arne chose to visit Grand Fir Brewing where we enjoyed several of their beers and a really delicious lunch too. Grand Fir has a female brewmaster and owner, so I’m all over supporting women owned, local owned and Pacific Northwest businesses. Food was great too.
Born in Portland in 1999, Stumptown Coffee (Portland was once nicknamed Stumptown after they cut down all the trees) can now be found in many other cities too. But Portland loves their Stumptown, so we had to try it. We loved the funky vibe of the Stumptown location in Old Town, and it was a great place to have a cuppa, and watch Portland wake up.
One of the best meals we have had in a long time, we chose Q because it had great ratings and it was walking distance from our hotel. Service was great and they asked right up front if we had a time crunch. Since we were headed to a concert at Keller Auditorium, they assured us we would get out with plenty of time.
Warm olives and hummus
Amazing Lamb
The menu was amazing, unique and northwest. We started with warm olives and a delicious deep fried spring roll. So good. I chose the lamb, although I was waffling and almost had the catch of the day. Lamb was perfect. Arne had Osso Bucco, one of his favorites and certainly not something I make for him at home! So we were both very happy with the food, service and the ambiance. Reservations a must at this trendy Portland hot spot. Don’t miss it!
Portland’s go-to for comfort food since 1992, we had to visit for the first time, after reading the reviews. It was a Sunday and also Father’s Day so I was really glad we had made reservations. It was crowded, but the food was great and the coffee even better. I had the Northwest Salmon Hash and Eggs and Arne chose the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs. I was tempted by the Eggs Benedict, but I order that so often I thought I would be a rebel and try something new. Glad I did!
What a wonderful surprise to find Nordic Northwest, a place I had never heard of before. We went in search of Olle Bolle, the last of the Pacific Northwest Thomas Dambo trolls I wanted to see. And “ya sure ya betcha” we found him – at Nordic Northwest. What a wonderful spot for food and education and heritage of the Nordic history of the region.
Olle Bolle at Nordic Northwest
Peek a boo!
About 20 min outside of Portland, check out the Nordic Northwest calendar of events, make a reservation for good Scandinavian meal, or bring a picnic and enjoy visiting Olle Bolle. The original Scandia House on the property is open for tours a few times a year. Check the schedule to learn more.
I loved it.
My new friend Olle Bolle
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon
We loved our visit to Portland and enjoyed an adventure to discover new-to-us gems. If Portland is new to you, include our recommendations here in your itinerary. If you are visiting again, you might enjoy some hidden gems, or you certainly can find your own hidden gems in this West Coast city. Thanks for reading my Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon post.
We were lucky to encounter the most charming little hidden gem, on Washington’s Key Peninsula. We stayed in the KPMushroom House, nestled in the woods next to Penrose Point State Park. Only 30 minutes from Gig Harbor, 45 minutes from Tacoma, an hour and 15 minutes from Seattle and 3 hours from Portland, it’s a perfect get-away any time of the year. Let me tell you about this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Mushroom House Key Peninsula.
Couldn’t be cuter
What is a Mushroom House?
Not only is this magical cabin in the woods shaped like a mushroom, it is loaded with charming mushroom touches both obvious and hidden. Built by a young couple, Rod and Shannon, the project, like most, presented more challenges and a higher cost than originally expected. More than three years after breaking ground, Shannon and Rod celebrated the completion of their artistic creation – a true Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Mushroom House Key Peninsula.
Morning coffee under the forest canopy
Interior is a work of art
Hidden nooks and crannies around every corner
“Found” treasures like this giant bellows add so much drama and fun
Tragedy
But this fairy tale came to a stop, when Rod was killed in 2023 while flying solo in his Cessna over the Olympic Peninsula. This tragedy was, of course, devastating to Shannon and Rod’s family and friends – many who had helped bring the Mushroom House to life. Shannon was determined to keep the house in Rod’s memory, and she has worked tirelessly to create a happy ending.
Gorgeous staircase including a tree on top
Multiple well throughout outdoor spaces
Believing in Magic
If you are looking to find a little magic in the woods, The Key Peninsula Mushroom house is available to rent on Airbnb. We visited midweek in June, before the busy summer rush. And we were enchanted by so many special little touches;
Eclectic and Reclaimed
The 930 square foot house sleeps four with a main loft bedroom and a smaller Murphy Bed in the living room. The reclaimed and natural additions to the construction include beautiful wood from the property, wood and concrete countertops and cabinets, and vintage or antique items turned into useful and beautiful additions. And everywhere you look – mushrooms.
Eclectic
Reclaimed
Mushroom are everywhere
Never Never Land
If you grew up in the Pacific Northwest in the 60’s and 70’s you probably visited Never Never Land at Point Defiance in Tacoma. I definitely did. Back when kids were not stimulated all day by screens and devices, Never Never Land was a magical place for kids. I took my young children there too, in the 1990’s before it closed due to lack of interest and changing times. I have a framed postcard in my kitchen of Humpty Dumpty at Never Never Land.
Little Miss Muffet sat on her tuffet
Little Jack Horner sat in his corner
Rod, like many from Tacoma and beyond, felt nostalgia for Never Never Land, and when some of the original figures went up for auction, he purchased them. Today, as you wander the little trail near the Mushroom House, you encounter Little Miss Muffet, Little Jack Horner and Three Men in a Tub. I remember them all with a fondness that is difficult to explain if you are not from the Pacific Northwest. But The Mushroom House has brought them back to life as part of this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Mushroom House Key Peninsula.
Rub a Dub Dub, Three Men in a Tub
This is my Never Never Land Postcard which hangs in my kitchen with other vintage postcards
Beneath the Twinkling Stars
Multiple outdoor spaces provide both day and evening nooks to relax and enjoy some forest bathing beneath the stars. A hot tub is available as well as two separate fire areas, one a fire pit the other a fireplace. Shannon provides fixins for s’mores too. Just behind the Mushroom House the 2 acre property opens up into a meadow, a great place to throw a Frisbee, do yoga or star gaze.
Firepit and wood is provided
Covered seating area perfect for all seasons
Hot tub too
Making s’mores after dinner
You May Never Want to Leave
The Mushroom House is within walking distance of Penrose Point State Park, a perfect place to beach comb or hike. Penrose is one of my favorite State Parks and it too is a hidden gem. It’s also a short drive to Key Center where you will find a grocery store and other services. 2 Margaritas Restaurant is only about a mile from the house. Staying longer you might consider a day in Belfair or Gig Harbor or a drive around the Hood Canal.
Awesome garden
Perfect touches on theme
The beach at Penrose Point State Park
The dock at Penrose Point State Park
Or you may want to just put your feet up, read a book, and breathe. It really is one of the most peaceful places I have ever had the pleasure of staying. A magical fairy tale that might just be the happy ending you are looking for. Book your stay here.
Bordeaux. It’s the wine and a whole lot more. During our month-long visit to Bordeaux we rented a car for one week, giving us easy access to some of the beautiful villages outside the city. Even if you visit Bordeaux for only a few days, try to get outside the city. Here are my suggestions for My Favorite Day Trips from Bordeaux France.
Chateau Monbazillac outside of Bergerac
Take a Tour
You do not need a car to get outside of the city. There are many tour options, and the train also goes to many locations. If you are short on time, I recommend a day trip with Olala Tours. We joined a tour with Olala early in our visit to Bordeaux that took us to Saint Emilion and to the Margaux Medoc region. This was a great introduction to the nuances of Bordeaux regional wines. We loved the tiny medieval village of Saint Emilion so we chose to go back there later with the car.
In Margaux Medoc region on our Olala tour
Wine tasting in the Margaux Medoc region
My Favorite Day Trips from Bordeaux France
We had the car for a week and we made five trips outside of the city during that time. We had beautiful weather on four of those days. Here are my recommendations;
Saint Emilion
Drive – It is about an hour drive to Saint Emilion, longer depending on traffic. We did not have any problem finding parking at 10am, but the lot was full after lunch.
Train – the train takes less time, but drops you about a mile from town. A walk or bike ride on to Saint Emilion is required.
Bordeaux to Saint Emilion
Saint Emilion
Saint Emilion
What to do – Saint Emilion is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, with more than 800 wineries in the small appellation -you can’t possibly visit them all. Bordeaux’s famous red wines are made from a blend of grape varieties, with Merlot being the dominant variety, and also including Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines are known for their rich, full-bodied and complex character, with good aging potential.
Beautiful history and art
Be sure to book AHEAD for the guided tour of the Monolithic underground church
Start your visit walking around the beautiful village for amazing views and shopping and coffee or lunch. Book in advance to take a tour of the amazing Monolithic church, only accessible by tour. No photos inside, but take my word for it – it is definitely worth it. If you don’t have a car, enjoy a tasting at one of the many wine shops in the village.
With a car you must wander out into the miles and miles of vineyards and experience wine tasting with the wine masters of the Saint Emilion appellation. We visited three wineries and I recommend each one for a completely different experience; Chateau Chauvin (we visited with a tour), and on our own Haut Rocher and Chateau Saint Georges. Booking ahead is recommended.
Haut Rocher in the same family for 800 years
Saint Georges beautiful Chateau and gardens and massive storage facility
Lunch in the vineyard at Chateau Chavin with Olala Tours
There are many tours available from Bordeaux to Saint Emilion. This is an absolute not to miss day trip from Bordeaux on your own or with a tour.
Saint Emilion’s oldest timbered house and original stone gate
Arcachon and Dune du Pilat
Drive – Arcachon is less than an hour by car west to the Atlantic ocean. Plenty of parking available.
Train – The train from Bordeaux will drop you in the center of Arcachon, but to visit Dune du Pilat you need a car or tour.
Bordeaux to Arcachon
What to do – We started our visit at the Les Halle des Arcachon to indulge in Arcachon’s world famous oysters. Oysters and seafood are two of the main attractions to the region. If you love them as we do you must visit. We also did a self guided walk along the beach promenade, and hiked up the hill to admire the 19th century mansions and the view back down to the town. If you are interested there are boat tours out to the small outer islands. We did not do this.
The Dune du Pilat is an amazing not to be missed sand dune about 40 minutes to the south of Arcachon. I was blown away by the size of this natural phenomenon that juts up from the sea, Europe’s tallest dune. Learn more about it here. It’s a fun hike, accessible by stairs if you don’t want to crawl up, and the view is worth it. I highly recommend visiting Dune du Pilat if you can. So fascinating.
Some people take off their shoes and walk up
I took the stairs. Slowly.
The view from the top. Amazing.
Bergerac
Drive – a bit further afield is the beautiful medieval village of Bergerac. It took us an hour and half to arrive in Bergerac. We easily found paid parking
Train – the train takes about the same time as driving and it is an easy 1km walk from the station into the historic center.
Bordeaux to Bergerac
What to do – Bergerac is in the Perigord region, outside of the Bordeaux region. We visited on a Monday, when many things are closed, but we found some shops and restaurants open for visitors. We did a self guided tour of the village, famous for the ancient timbered buildings, many currently being carefully restored and protected. I really enjoyed the beautiful river walk, and views across the Dordogne river. We sat outside at a tiny cafe (such a French thing to do) and had great food, wine and service.
Visit Bergerac for the ancient timbered buildings most still in use today
Feels like the French town in Beauty and the Beast
Delicious lunch on a sunny afternoon
Perfect day for a walk on the river
After lunch we drove about twenty minutes outside town to Chateau Monbazillac An ancient Chateau built in the 16th century with fascinating story you can learn on a self-guided immersive tour. The tour includes a glass of wine (this area is known for sweet whites) in their tasting room. It’s worth it for the views and gardens too. So peaceful.
Chateau Monbazillac
Chateau Monbazillac
Although it is farther, I recommend visiting Bergerac. The history was incredible. You could combine Bergerac and Saint Emilion but it would be a very long day.
Cape Ferret
Drive – headed west again Cape Ferret is a beautiful oyster producing region about an hour and twenty minutes drive from Bordeaux.
Train – really not an option
Bordeaux to Cap Ferret
What to do – we were blessed with excellent weather (actually hot) and our Cape Ferret goal was to hike. We started at the end of the road (La Pointe du Cap Ferret) where there was a small parking lot and restroom. We did a loop walk along the ocean hiking through both wooded area and ocean beach for a total of five miles. The Cap Ferret lighthouse (‘phare’ in French) is a beacon in the distance, but was not really our destination although it is open for visitors. We sat on the beach just east of the lighthouse, ate the picnic we had brought from home, and watched many brave souls enjoy a brisk ocean swim. There are many small oyster restaurants as well as places to buy fresh oysters to take home. From this side of the bay you can look back across to Dune du Pilat (see above).
Sandy Beach at Cap Ferret
Oysters are big business at Cap Ferret
We were blessed with a beautiful day
Crossing the estuary at low tide
It would be possible to combine Cap Ferret with Arcachon if you had a car and were open to a very full day.
La Reole
Drive – We drove in a rain storm about an hour and twenty minutes. Part of the drive is on highway and part is through pretty little ancient villages and vineyards
Train – the train is faster, about 45 minutes, but drops you a few hundred meters outside of the village
Bordeaux to La Reole
What to do – unfortunately the day we went to La Reole we got caught in a total monsoon. Our goal was to visit the Saturday morning market (8am-1pm), touted as one of the best markets in all of France. We did visit, but in a deluge. There is a big parking lot just west of the market, which is located along the Dordogne river. We made our purchases from a butcher, poulet producer, and fruits and vegetables vendor. Across from the market there is a public elevator that takes you up to the medieval village. We managed to only see a little bit of this ancient town though, as it really was not possible in the storm. What we did see was beautiful though and you should give it a try.
Lots of shoppers despite the wet weather
Looking from the upper town down to the market and river
Cathedral in La Reole
All roads lead to Santiago
You could combine Le Reole with a Saint Emilion day or a visit to Cadillac.
And There is More
We did visit Margaux Medoc with the tour we took, but I wished we could have had another day exploring the wine region of Medoc because it is more than just Margaux. I also had hoped to visit Blaye and Cadillac…those will need to wait for our next visit.
Beautiful gardens at Chateau Saint Georges
There are many destinations within easy access from Bordeaux if you wanted to do an overnight trip. We did not, but I would definitely consider this on our next long visit to the region. Toulouse is about two and half hours by car. Cognac is about two hours by car. Spain’s Basque region is less than three hours by car. Everything about this region is historic, delicious and beautiful. I want to live here.
Baby grapes on the vine in April
Southwest France
Southwest France and the Bordeaux region are not as well known as some of France’s other destinations, and that of course makes it more desirable for me. Less expensive, less crowded but still interesting, delicious and fun. I learned more about wine during our visit to Bordeaux than I had in all my life. Everyday was fascinating. It’s time to consider the Nouvelle Acquitane region of France for your next travel adventure. J’ai adoré. A bientôt Bordeaux. Merci!
Vineyard at Chateau Monbazillac
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bucket list noun: a list of things that one has not done before but wants to do before dying
Tigers Nest Monestary Bhutan
I have been thinking about Bhutan for so long…honestly didn’t know if it would ever happen. It’s remote, expensive, and definitely under the radar for most travelers. But for us, it ticked a lot of boxes we look for in a destination. So we made it happen – Bhutan Bucket List, The Land of the Thunder Dragon.
The Thunder Dragon
In this Buddhist country overflowing with symbolism, myths, and beliefs, Bhutan is known as Druk Yul or the “Land of Dragon”. The name comes from the violent thunderstorms that sweep down from the Himalayan Mountains.
At the 108 Stupas, Duchula Pass, 3100m
More than 85% of the Bhutanese people practice the Buddhism, in the only Buddhist democratic constitutional monarchy in the world. The people are strong in their faith, their love of their King and country, and their love of their unique and beautiful cultural traditions.
Khamsum Yulley Monastery, Punakha
Why Bhutan?
Fifteen years ago I saw a photograph of Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It blew my mind. I vowed to see it one day. This was before we set out on our retirement travel adventures. Back when we had no idea this travel obsession would become a way of life. Back when I never dreamed we could, and would, travel the world. But through careful planning and sheer determination, we have visited so much of this planet including our Bhutan Bucket List , The Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Monks at Gantay Goenba Monastery
A Culture of Happiness
Gross National Happiness is a term coined by His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck in the 1970s. The concept implies that sustainable development should take a holistic approach towards notions of progress and give equal importance to non-economic aspects of well-being.
Our lovely guide Lhamo , hiking high above the Haa Valley
The first and foremost reason for the uniqueness of Bhutan is the happy people living in Bhutan. The concept of ‘happiness’ in the Kingdom is very much derived from the contentment that Bhutanese feel about their lives. It is also instilled through the Buddhist values of simplicity and compassion.
Shoes off – custom at all Temples and Monasteries
Bhutan’s free and accessible education and healthcare systems are pivotal in enhancing its citizens overall well-being and happiness. This is a government funded system that insures everyone even in remote areas have the services they need.
The tiny Bhutanese Horse at Tigers Nest
As an American, I can’t say I live in a country where my happiness takes priority. Often it feels quite the opposite. As a visitor to Bhutan you immediately sense that something is different here; in the interaction of the people with each other and with visitors. In restaurants, in museums, in monasteries, even in traffic. People are happy, engaged with each other and welcoming to guests.
Traditions
In Bhutan keeping cultural traditions strong and protecting nature and the environment is a large part of the lives of local people. The Buddhist goal to become enlightened is believed to be attainable only with the elimination of all greed, hatred, and ignorance within a person. These daily aspirations combine to create a fascinating, beautiful and friendly place – unlike anywhere I have visited in the world. You will see it in the traditional architecture, the traditional dress worn daily, the strong faith, the protection of animals and care of the people.
Traditional Dress of Bhutan. Men wear the Gho a knee length wrap robe. Women wear Kira a woven skirt and top
Visiting Bhutan requires a guide and a driver, as well as paying the Bhutan Sustainable Development Tax. The tax fuels initiatives to protect the land, empower communities, and preserve culture. The cost is $100 USD per person per day. It’s steep, but the tax was dropped significantly after Covid. There is no guarantee it won’t go up again, so if you are considering Bhutan you might want to come soon.
We were so lucky to have these wonderful Bhutanese people to guide us through Bhutan; Lhamo and Dam. Lhamo was an expert birding guide and we were so grateful.
We chose to do a private ten day tour with the company My Bhutan. There are many companies to chose from both private and group tours, trekking and cycling tours, bird watching and even motorcycle tours. My Bhutan gave us a wonderful experience and exactly what we hoped for. We stayed in beautiful hotels, ate delicious and unique foods and had a superb and knowledgeable guide and driver. If you want to cut costs in Bhutan there are many home stays that would save you a great deal of money, but conditions can be rustic. Do your research and decide what is best for you and your budget. Bhutan will cost you more than most other destinations, but it truly is a once in a lifetime destination.
Where is Bhutan
If you aren’t familiar with Bhutan take a look at this map. Nestled in the Himalayas, Bhutan is a landlocked country that borders China/Tibet, Nepal and India. The country lies close to Myanmar (Burma) and Bangladesh. Bhutan’s remote and rugged location kept it from ever being colonized. Bhutan opened its borders to visitors in 1974. Until that time, the Kingdom of Bhutan and its people remained happily isolated. Bhutan’s current population is 800,000 in an area about one and a half times the size of Vermont.
Bhutan and it’s neighbors
During our visit to our Bucket List Bhutan, The Land of the Thunder Dragon, we were primarily in the Northwest. This is the region that is home to the International Airport in Paro and the capital of Thimphu. We spent our days hiking, bird watching, visiting dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, temples and enjoying astonishing views of mountains, valleys and rivers. During our visit we learned about local weaving, paper making, wood carving, traditional housing, farming and the national sport of archery. We visited local homes, enjoyed home-cooked meals and laughed and enjoyed the hospitality of everyone we met including our wonderful guide Lhamo and our driver Dam from My Bhutan.
We loved having Lhamo and Dam with us on the hike to Tiger’s Nest
What is Your Favorite
Our lovely guide asked us on our last day what had been our favorite thing we did during our ten day visit. I was loath to choose just one thing. How could I? There was nothing I didn’t like. Of course Tiger’s Nest was amazing as expected. But the unexpected stood out; the children, the Buddhist legends, seeing yaks and birds. My first time seeing the Himalayas. The cultural awareness, the magnificent traditional art – I could go on and on. You can’t possibly grasp it without coming here. You really should come and see it for yourself. Here are someof the things I will never forget:
Unforgettable – That’s What You Are
Prayer Flags
Hundreds of thousands of colorful Prayer Flags everywhere, the fabric sounding like a flock of birds in the afternoon wind, promoting peace, compassion, strength and wisdom.
Hiking above Timphu and Prayer Flags everywhere
Artists
Talented and patient hands weaving astonishing works of art as one of Bhutan’s national treasures. Tedious and determined work creates something of value and beauty.
Such talent and patience
Himalayas
Waking up on a sunny morning to our first view of the Eastern Himalayas, thought to be sacred by the Bhutanese, and it is easy to see why.
Helping Bhutan keep its goal to maintain 70% of the country forested by planting a tree with the local NGO Green Bhutan, thanks to our tour operator My Bhutan.
We can come back in years to come and see how our tree is doing, our names will always remain on the plant
Local Children
Hiking to the astonishingly beautiful mountaintop Khamsum Yulley Monastery and meeting the tiniest little girls selling citrus on the trail.
Greeting the littles in Bhutan
Suspension Bridge
Walking across the longest suspension bridge I have ever encountered over the Puna Tsang river. Fun and a little bit of an adrenaline rush.
This amazing suspension bridge
River Rafting
Rafting down the Mo River on a beautiful sunny day. Getting soaked in the rapids, laughing and loving every minute of it.
Black Necked Crane
Seeing so many new to us birds, as well as an unexpected endangered Black Necked Crane, one of Bhutan’s auspicious and sacred animals. The cranes winter in the Probjika Valley, from November to February, so we were lucky to see a couple of stragglers in March.
Black Neck Crane, endangered and sacred. (Photo Merlin App)
High Altitude Hiking
Accomplishing one of the hardest hikes I have ever done, at 12,000 feet my lungs were screaming. But the view was worth it in the end, and more memories made.
Invigorating (and sweaty) hike. Overlooking the Probjika Valley.
Adding our own prayer flags at the summit
That’s a Yak
Seeing a yak for the first time, these incredible creatures are a vital part of high altitude living and provide so much for the local people.
That is a yak.
Butter Lamps
Lighting butter lamps (candles made of butter) at the Gangtay Goenba Monastery to banish ignorance and replace it with wisdom and light. I definitely know some people who should light some butter lamps!
Butter Lamps
Evening Prayers
Going to evening prayers with the nuns, in a monastery with young girls as small as nine years old. A commitment to enlightenment that is hard for most people to grasp.
Prayers at the monastery with the nuns
Bhutan Cuisine
The food – spicy, fresh, surprising and delicious – we learned to make Momo dumplings, fell in love with Chili Cheese, Hoentay buckwheat dumplings, Spinach with Pork, amazing soups and the best scrambled eggs ever. I’ll be doing YouTube videos I promise.
Momo Dumplings filled with delicious vegetables
Most Bhutanese meals we had were home cooked and served family style while seated on the floor
Symbolism
Learning the legends of the local deities, the symbols of faith and fertility, the rituals of enlightenment and beliefs of the local people and how it is ingrained deeply in their lives.
Gantay Monastery
Hot Stone Bath
Experiencing the unique and medicinal traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath. Both relaxing and stress relieving.
Hot Stone Bath heated with mineral stones and infused with herbs. It was magical.
Archery
Watching the local obsession with Bhutan’s national sport of archery – and giving it a try ourselves. Bhutan’s version of archery is very different from anything I have seen before – and much more difficult.
Everywhere we went, there were archery areas and so many men playing. When someone hits the target, they all sing.
I have done archery several times, but this was harder. Bamboo bow.
Bucket List – Tiger’s Nest
And finally of course, hiking to the amazing Tiger’s Nest. Leaving early in the morning and making it to the top before any other guests, giving us unprecedented views and access to the monastery. Learning the legend of Guru Rinpoche who meditated in a cave here for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours in the 8th century. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress, thus earning the name Tiger’s Nest for the monastery that was built here in his honor in 1692.
Dream come true. Tiger’s Nest Bhutan. No photos allowed inside, so you’ll have to take my word that it was really beautiful
There it is.
Bhutan Bucket List, The Land of the Thunder Dragon
While we were in Bhutan, neighboring Myanmar experienced a tragic magnitude 7.7 earthquake. I had been thinking throughout our visit to Bhutan that it reminded me of Myanmar – one of our favorite countries. With similar faiths, traditions and the kindest people, Bhutan and Myanmar are not unlike each other. My heart breaks for those amazing people we met in Myanmar. And now Bhutan also holds a very special place in my heart. Thanks for giving me a bucket list experience like no other.
Spring in Bhutan presented so many wildflowers – these are wild primroses
It’s unlikely I can afford to make another visit to Bhutan. But if I did I would certainly choose My Bhutan again. And I would consider visiting the southern part of Bhutan to see even more amazing birds and nature. A girl can hope…
Drinking surprisingly delicious, sweet and spicy, rice porridge a Bhutanese breakfast staple. Warm comfort food at the top of Chelela Pass, 3900m
Thank You My Bhutan
Thank you My Bhutan and the people of Bhutan for your generous welcome to your astounding country. I will always hold this memory close to my heart. And I will shout it from the mountain top – everyone should visit and learn from Bhutan about how to be peaceful and prosperous in a world full of war and greed.
Grateful for beautiful weather, amazing scenery, history and culture.
Thank you for reading my post Bhutan Bucket List, The Land of the Thunder Dragon. Kadrinchey Bhutan. I keep you in my heart.
We are so grateful when you comment, share and pin our posts to help us reach a wider audience. I am happy to answer any questions you have about visiting Bhutan.
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