Although, I learned during my trip that Quark Expedition itself is going through some internal changes, from start to finish my trip was operated by a fun, professional and safety conscious group of individuals.
From the Expedition Leader on down, they all worked diligently to make our trip adventurous and enjoyable.
Not quiet the experience most of them expected.
I would not hesitate to recommend or take another trip with Quark Expedition if given the opportunity.
As primarily a solo backpack traveler, I must chose my travel companions, if any, very carefully. Any travel companion must add to my travel experience, be slim for the most part and a light weight with good looks getting a few extra points.
Usually, I have nothing against having a few extra pounds but if I must hang out with or carry my travel companions around then I don't want to be weighed down. My two new travel companions meet and almost surpass my rigorous requirements.
I found Flip at a local Wal-Mart for just $79, 20% off the regular price, so far he is not a bad travel companion.
Since Philips came at a reasonable price $39.99 and allows me to enjoy a few of my friends like Hank Williams Jr, Abba, Barry White and 4 Non Blondes, I agree to take him and Sony along.
I am headed to Antarctica and so far my new travel companions have been a lot of fun. Flip has been capturing and Philips has given me a good Vibe. I hope they can stand up to the rigors of a 12 day Antarctica expedition. It will be a true test of our new friendship and whether they will remain my travel companions.
Although the property is conveniently located of Interstate 75 with lots of restaurants and stores like Wal-Mart nearby, the room I was given left much to be desired.
Not something to look forward to after a long day of driving when all you want is a clean, quiet and comfortable place to sleep.
In the end, the front desk clerk was pleasant to deal with but I would not recommend Extended Stay in Gainesville unless you can get a pet-free, non smoking room away from the noise of the interstate.
A short easy drive from Nashville International Airport, Cave City, Kentucky is a good launching spot to visit Mammoth Cave National Park. It is just 90 miles from Nashville along Interstate 65 North.
After a trip to the caves for just $50 per canoe we launch on 7.5 mile down the Green River. From the Dennison Ferry to Green River Ferry this routes takes about 3 hours.
Mammoth Cave Canoe & Kayak offers other trips and no matter which one you choose, I am sure it will be an enjoyable experience.
For more info:http://www.mammothcavecanoe-k.com/rates.htm
We are practically half frozen to death by the time we arrive at Phillips Motel in Robbinsville, North Carolina.
Running behind because of so many beautiful stops along the way we have just crossed most of the Cherohala Skyway, Highway 165/143 from Tellico Plains, Tennessee, shivering.
I feel like Harry from the 1994 Dumb and Dumber movie, wishing I had brought a second pair of gloves. “Lloyd, I can't feel my fingers, they are numb!”. My hands are so cold I could barely write to register for the room reserved at Phillips Motels.
We are tempted to join them but may have to jump in the fire to stay alive.
Operated by an elderly couple, Phillips Motel is located on Main Street and has a few buildings spread around the complex. Although prices are as low as $40 per night, I am told while making our reservations that the rooms upfront are worth the extra $15 per night.
Phillips is not your typical standard chain hotel, it has a charm all it's own and is more than adequate as a place to spend a few nights while you explore all the great riding and scenery in the area. Restaurants, shops, a grocery store and even a McDonald's with free wi-fi are all close by.
I would certainly stay at Phillips Motel again but next time I will arrive early enough to stay warm by the bonfire.
You won't be disappointed.
I don't think I will make it unless I deal with an upset friend.
Long before I approach Interstate 5 my stomach has fired warning shots that tells me it is not happy that I have spent the entire day basically ignoring it. With so much to see and do in so little time, I knew it would be near the end of the day before I sit down for a full meal.
El Compadre located in Castle Rock, Washington on Highway 504 just east of Interstate 5 knows my weakness.
Warm tortilla chips with a flavorful but not too spicy salsa turns my weakness into a victory. For $8.95, I am dining on a generous size tamale and tostada along with rice and refried beans.
Now I might be delusional after a day of hiking and being outdoors in the Great Pacific Northwest but I am willing to bet you a taco you will have the same great dining experience at El Compadre.
Muy Bueno!
Since I consider it too late in the day for a visit, I make a general inquire about the admission prices just in time to stumble on an October Surprise.
Admission is only $5 after 5pm every Friday in October with the Aquarium staying open until 9:30pm on Fridays.
It takes at least 2 hours to view the aquarium and you will be given a set entrance time.
I was able to purchase my ticket for a 4:30pm admission and had no wait time. However, leaving the National Aquarium around 6:30pm, I discover there was an extensive line for admission. I recommend you get there early to avoid the line and it might just be the best $5 you have ever spent.
Unfortunately, for unknown reasons, not many take the time to explore the gems of America's natural beauty.
For $80, just pennies a day, an annual pass from the National Park Service gives one good reason to set out on a National Treasure Hunt. From Yellowstone in the West, The Great Smoky Mountains in the East, Denali in the North and Big Bend in the South, you have a treasure map that would make any pirate adventurer proud. “X's” everywhere!
This applies not only to the card holder but also accompanying guests.
From Mt. St. Helens, The Grand Canyon to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge in Virginia or Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can truly get a sampling of America The Beautiful for a steal.
National Parks Information: www.nps.gov
In all my travels, The Best Western Bay Harbor Hotel Tampa located less than 15 minutes from Tampa International Airport (TPA) is by far one of my favorite airport area hotels.
On some nights games are played until 2am!
Crabby Bill's is a “Fresh No Frills Seafood” restaurant and bar adjoining The Best Western.
Caribbean Mahi-Mahi with two sides is just $7.99 if you dine before 6pm. Complimented with a draft beer from America's Oldest Brewery, Yuengling for $2.50 along with the atmosphere it's a meal that's hard to beat for under $15.
Dissipating summer evening thunderstorms usually produce nice sunsets which can be enjoyed from your balcony, patio or the hotel’s bay front beach area.
I even got to use the employee lounge microwave to heat up a plate of Florida Famous, Publix Fried Chicken for lunch.
Free computers and wireless internet along with the possibility of a late check out makes The Best Western Bay Harbor Hotel Tampa a bargain at around $75 per night.
For more info: www.bestwesternhoteltampa.com
