The pandemic has been pretty good to mileage balances with airline plans, especially if you use a loyalty credit card and have still been spending money on Amazon during the pandemic. While it might still be too soon to cash in six figures of points — and many exotic locations are still not available — there are several ways to whet your travel appetite and gently dip your toes … [Read more...] about 7 innovative ways to use your gazillion Alaska Airlines miles
Oregon
Weekend getaway to Central Oregon — a great high desert itinerary
I love Central Oregon! From fascinating geological history to the plethora of outdoor activities, there seems to be something for everyone in this enclave of beauty centered around Bend (population 100,000+) and Redmond, Oregon (where the commercial airport for the region is located). Ski Mt. Bachelor in Winter, discover lava beds in Spring, raft the wily Deschutes River in … [Read more...] about Weekend getaway to Central Oregon — a great high desert itinerary
Painted Hills Oregon — everything you need to know to explore
Brilliant reds, golds, blacks, oranges and browns all blend together in a flowing myriad of color, wandering off into the Ochoco Mountains nearby. Tucked into a tiny morsel of vast canyon, the Painted Hills in Oregon bring alive an ancient time capsule. The unique geological site tells the story of diverse ecosystems -- from tropical forests to swamps to savanna -- existing … [Read more...] about Painted Hills Oregon — everything you need to know to explore
Painted Hills, Oregon photos — alive with vibrant red and yellow
This picture gallery brings to life the extraordinary geological phenomena tucked into a quiet bastion of ranch land at the base of the Ochoco National Forest in Central Oregon. My recent day-trip from Redmond, Oregon provided near-perfect weather conditions that inspired the following collection of Painted Hills Oregon photos. If you're interested in more details about how … [Read more...] about Painted Hills, Oregon photos — alive with vibrant red and yellow
My 10 favorite things to do in Astoria, Oregon
This is a love letter to Astoria, Oregon. I have fond memories of spending time in this coastal enclave growing up -- regularly visiting a favorite baby sitter whose family moved down the river. In fact, she took me to see Star Wars for the first time at the Liberty Theatre (just recently renovated downtown.) I continue to explore the area on regular trips home to see family … [Read more...] about My 10 favorite things to do in Astoria, Oregon
