Way back in August, Tom and I went to Alaska! But you probably didn’t know that, because until now I’ve barely said a word about it – apart from quick mentions when I discussed my love of America’s national parks and my highlights of 2016. Alaska was absolutely a highlight of 2016. It will definitely be […]
Adventure
Hike Files: Thornton Lakes Trail to Trappers Peak (North Cascades National Park)
Washington has certainly ignited my passion for hiking. While I’ve always enjoyed an outdoors lifestyle, most of my weekends in Newcastle were spent bikini clad and beachside rather than tackling switchbacks in my rainproof jacket and hiking boots. My new ‘home state’ is not short on mountains, and over the past 14 months of living […]
In Search of Orcas: Whale Watching in the San Juan Islands
Whale watching in the San Juan Islands is one of the most unique and special experiences one can have in the remote areas of Washington State. Orcas are undoubtedly one of the most fascinating creatures in the ocean. Since moving to the Pacific Northwest, I’ve been hoping for an orca encounter of my own, but thus […]
Best sights and hikes in Deception Pass State Park
Home to rugged coastal headlands and dense forest, peaceful coves and picture-perfect panoramas of the Olympic Mountains, Deception Pass State Park offers gorgeous surrounds for hiking and sight-seeing. Its immense reputation is matched by its proportions. By numbers, Deception Pass State Park has 4,134 acres of ancient forest, 15 miles of saltwater shoreline, four freshwater […]
Expat Escapades May 2016
May can only be described as total, utter madness – in the best way possible. Packed with action, it’s probably why I’m writing the Expat Escapades May edition in July. May was the month of most’s: the most cities visited, the most miles driven, the most national parks hiked through, and certainly the most ice-cream […]
West Coast road trip: a nature lover’s journey
The mighty west coast road trip. It’s a rite of passage for both Americans and those visiting the USA. A trip to the United States isn’t truly complete without it. If you’re a nature lover with a fondness for sweeping coastal landscapes, ruggedly mountainous national parks, vibrant cities and laid-back seaside towns, I’d definitely add this to your […]