Results for "Hells+Canyon+|+3+>+99"
73101 results found.
Location de voiture à Johannesbourg (Afrique du Sud) English translation pending
Nous comptons l'été prochain rejoindre le nord de la namibie (traversée du Botswana), le Kaokoland plus exactement. Cette région encore très sauvage n'est pas d'un accès très aisée et donc demande une grande autonomie. Ayant avec mon épouse une certaine expérience de l'Afrique, nous faisons ce voyage avec notre fille de 10 ans pour lui faire découvrir "autre chose". Cette région est exceptionnelle par sa faune, ses paysages mais surtout sa population locale, les Himbas. Ce périple va durer 3 semaines et le trajet va se découper en trois parties : 5 jours d'approche tranquille (traversé du Botswana), 10 jours dans le Kaokoland (essentiellement en bivouac), 5 jours de retour réadaptation vers johanesbourg
@+
Kazakhstan in August: climate, itinerary, and 4x4 questions
Hi everyone,
My partner and I are planning a 3-week trip to Kazakhstan in August and would love your input to refine our itinerary.
We’re thinking of spending the first part of the trip in the Almaty region, including the following spots:
Singing Barkhan (singing dune)
Altyn-Emel National Park
Charyn Canyon National Park
Ozora Ushchel'ya Reki Kensu (Kensu River Valley lakes)
possibly Ile-Alatau National Park
After that, we’d like to explore the Mangystau region around Aktau, with highlights like:
Airakty
Tuzbair Salt Lake
Kyzylkup ("Tiramisu")
Gora Bokty
Bozzhyra
Three Brothers Peaks
We’re planning to rent a 4x4 in each region and have a few questions:
Could you recommend any reliable 4x4 rental companies in both the Almaty and Aktau/Mangystau regions?
I’ve read that the Mangystau region can get extremely hot in August. Do you think it’s better to start with Almaty and finish with Aktau to hopefully have milder temperatures (less extreme😛)? For us, doing the reverse would be simpler in terms of international flights, the domestic flight, and it’d also be significantly cheaper.
Regarding the places listed above, do you think there are any must-see spots we should add, or conversely, any sites that aren’t worth the detour?
More generally, do you have any practical tips for a 3-week trip to Kazakhstan in August (road conditions, fuel availability, reservations, weather, safety, etc.)?
Thanks so much for your feedback and advice! P.S.: We’re used to traveling independently and driving 4x4s in sometimes challenging conditions (Namibia, Tanzania, Bolivia—South Lipez, Chile, etc.), and we’re also experienced hikers, used to self-sufficient treks (Patagonia, Huayhuash, Three Peaks in Nepal, among others). We’re just mentioning this to give you an idea of our level of self-sufficiency for this kind of trip.
Singing Barkhan (singing dune)
Altyn-Emel National Park
Charyn Canyon National Park
Ozora Ushchel'ya Reki Kensu (Kensu River Valley lakes)
possibly Ile-Alatau National Park
After that, we’d like to explore the Mangystau region around Aktau, with highlights like:
Airakty
Tuzbair Salt Lake
Kyzylkup ("Tiramisu")
Gora Bokty
Bozzhyra
Three Brothers Peaks
We’re planning to rent a 4x4 in each region and have a few questions:
Could you recommend any reliable 4x4 rental companies in both the Almaty and Aktau/Mangystau regions?
I’ve read that the Mangystau region can get extremely hot in August. Do you think it’s better to start with Almaty and finish with Aktau to hopefully have milder temperatures (less extreme😛)? For us, doing the reverse would be simpler in terms of international flights, the domestic flight, and it’d also be significantly cheaper.
Regarding the places listed above, do you think there are any must-see spots we should add, or conversely, any sites that aren’t worth the detour?
More generally, do you have any practical tips for a 3-week trip to Kazakhstan in August (road conditions, fuel availability, reservations, weather, safety, etc.)?
Thanks so much for your feedback and advice! P.S.: We’re used to traveling independently and driving 4x4s in sometimes challenging conditions (Namibia, Tanzania, Bolivia—South Lipez, Chile, etc.), and we’re also experienced hikers, used to self-sufficient treks (Patagonia, Huayhuash, Three Peaks in Nepal, among others). We’re just mentioning this to give you an idea of our level of self-sufficiency for this kind of trip.
Tips for traveling on a budget in Albania?
Hi everyone,
We’re a young couple planning our first trip to Albania from June 23, 2026, to July 2, 2026. We have a pretty tight budget and want to make the most of this amazing country without breaking the bank.
We’re looking for all the advice you can give to help us plan our stay:
* What are the must-see places to visit? * Which cities or villages are really worth the detour? * What natural sites, hikes, canyons, springs, or viewpoints do you recommend? * Do you know of any free, uncrowded, or particularly beautiful beaches? * Where can we responsibly observe or swim with sea turtles? * What are the most beautiful beaches on the Albanian Riviera that are accessible on a small budget? * What budget-friendly accommodations (hotels, hostels, homestays, campgrounds) do you recommend? * What are the best ways to get around between different regions at a low cost? * Do you know of any reliable and affordable agencies for renting a vehicle (car, scooter, or motorcycle)? What are the average rates at the end of June, and which rental companies do you recommend or advise against? * Is it better to rent a vehicle right when we arrive or stick to local buses and minibuses to keep costs down? * Which restaurants or local specialties offer the best value for money? * Are there any free or low-cost activities we shouldn’t miss? * Which places do you think are overrated or can be skipped when you’re short on time and money? * What practical tips would you have wished you knew before your first trip to Albania?
We’d also love any 10-day itineraries that you particularly enjoyed, along with your budget estimates for accommodation, meals, and transportation.
We’re open to off-the-beaten-path spots and local tips. If you have any secret addresses, hidden beaches, favorite accommodations, or mistakes to avoid, we’d love to hear about them! 😊
We’re a young couple planning our first trip to Albania from June 23, 2026, to July 2, 2026. We have a pretty tight budget and want to make the most of this amazing country without breaking the bank.
We’re looking for all the advice you can give to help us plan our stay:
* What are the must-see places to visit? * Which cities or villages are really worth the detour? * What natural sites, hikes, canyons, springs, or viewpoints do you recommend? * Do you know of any free, uncrowded, or particularly beautiful beaches? * Where can we responsibly observe or swim with sea turtles? * What are the most beautiful beaches on the Albanian Riviera that are accessible on a small budget? * What budget-friendly accommodations (hotels, hostels, homestays, campgrounds) do you recommend? * What are the best ways to get around between different regions at a low cost? * Do you know of any reliable and affordable agencies for renting a vehicle (car, scooter, or motorcycle)? What are the average rates at the end of June, and which rental companies do you recommend or advise against? * Is it better to rent a vehicle right when we arrive or stick to local buses and minibuses to keep costs down? * Which restaurants or local specialties offer the best value for money? * Are there any free or low-cost activities we shouldn’t miss? * Which places do you think are overrated or can be skipped when you’re short on time and money? * What practical tips would you have wished you knew before your first trip to Albania?
We’d also love any 10-day itineraries that you particularly enjoyed, along with your budget estimates for accommodation, meals, and transportation.
We’re open to off-the-beaten-path spots and local tips. If you have any secret addresses, hidden beaches, favorite accommodations, or mistakes to avoid, we’d love to hear about them! 😊
A Brief A to Z of Peru
Foreword
This text has been proofread many times.
Sorry if some points in this A to Z have already been covered on this forum.
Text and drawings by the author.
Peru is still a very vast country, with so much to see, and obviously this text can't list all the attractions of the country.
*Abiseo (River) A national park that's very hard to access and doesn’t seem open to visitors. Includes the Gran Pajaten site (see below). Personally, it really sparks my imagination (not visited personally)
*Aguas Calientes the town next to Machu Picchu, more precisely below the archaeological site. As far as I know, you can only get there by train. Reminds me of the market where stalls line both sides of the tracks near Bangkok. I love it
*Altiplano: somewhere the "heart" of the Andes. I was able to trek across it on foot, starting from Caracollo in Bolivia, and of course, it’s vast plains to explore. This is where people live in a very rural way. Andean populations are quite austere compared to those in the lowlands or on the coast. You really have to appreciate the harshness of life to live there. Life is anything but superficial. I set a compass heading and found myself walking west toward the expanse of water near a place called La Joya. For pitching the tent, the nights were still chilly
*Canyon del Colca One of the deepest canyons in the world. Personally, I hiked down and back up on foot. The toughest stretch I’ve ever covered in my life.
*Ceviche More or less the national dish. A marinade of fish, shellfish, and lime. But you can find it in some restaurants in Europe, France, and certainly in Belgium or Switzerland. In the small restaurants of Pisco, you can eat excellent ceviche
*Cerro Sechín: Mostly bas-reliefs. A site little known to travelers in the Casma province. The first vestiges of a pre-Inca civilization with iconography similar to that of Chavín (not visited personally)
*Chan Chan A large city of the Chimú civilization and relatively vast to visit. You can see adobe walls with bas-reliefs. Visit from Trujillo, take a colectivo. Plan for the whole day
*Charango: a small guitar widely used in Andean music
*Chauchilla A necropolis near Nazca where you can see mummies exposed on the ground. YouTubers can do paranormal experiments there. And for anyone wondering about the fate of the soul and body after death, here’s the answer: the body remains after death. You can imagine your own flesh and body exposed to the winds of the Pampa and before eternity... (not visited personally)
*Chavín de Huántar (Lanzón) The site’s appeal lies in its mountainous surroundings, the Lanzón stela, and the sculpted heads on the façades. What few people know is that the Chavín civilization began its expansion centuries before the Incas. Unfortunately, you can’t get too close to see the Lanzón—the day I was there, it was protected by grilles. To get there: minibus from Huaraz or trek from Olleros. Then cross a high pass (over 5,000m). If you do it solo on foot, be careful—the path isn’t obvious from Olleros
*Chullpa: funerary tower, notably at Sillustani in the Lake Titicaca region
*Chimú: pre-Inca civilization whose center was Chan Chan.
*Chola/Cholitas (Bolivia): typical clothing style of women from the Andean plateaus
*Chompa: pronounce it *Chompaaa!* A common term for a wool sweater with vicuña patterns, often knitted from alpaca wool. If you dress like this, it’s a bit kitschy around the edges
*Cuy That one isn’t a guinea pig like in Guyana but an actual guinea pig. During a trip to Peru, I was hiking near a village north of Quillabamba (the terminus of the train line that passes through Aguas Calientes), and I was invited to stay in a house. The family raised a few of these pets. Apparently, the locals eat them. Since I’m not much of a meat-eater, it doesn’t really tempt me. How about you?
*Pacific Coast or how to talk about a place you haven’t visited? Except for the coast near Pisco and San Andrés, I haven’t visited any coastal cities. But that doesn’t mean these places lack interest or poetry. For fans of clichéd images, pelicans, seabirds, and fishing boats appear by the sea.
*Gran Pajaten: also closed to the public. Features anthropomorphic bas-reliefs. (not visited personally)
*Huaca. Visit the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna, especially near Trujillo. However, you can skip them—Chan Chan is still more interesting. Don’t forget to spend time visiting Chan Chan
*Huacachina A small oasis in the desert near Ica. Yes, we’re talking about an oasis because for those who’ve never traveled to Peru, the coastal strip along the Pacific is almost entirely desert, from north to south. Peru is territorially made up of three different regions: the desert coast, the Altiplano stretching north to south with mountain ranges (the Cordilleras), and the Amazon basin to the east. (not visited personally)
*Inca Kola It’s neither Coca-Cola nor Pepsi but a unique cola with a slightly orange color. Tastes like bubble gum
*Intiwatana: a carved rock shaped like a parallelepiped. Is it a sundial?
*Ballestas Islands: a highlight in Peru, though very touristy. You can only get there by boat from the port of San Andrés, a few kilometers from Pisco. It’s a surreal place to me—actually islets with cavities where sea lions and fur seals live. Since it’s a protected area, you’re not allowed to disembark. Guano is harvested there, which can be used as fertilizer.
*Kuelap: a fortress built by the Chachapoyas people. Rarely visited by travelers. (not visited personally)
*Larco Museum: an iconic museum in Lima with a large collection of pieces from archaeological and pre-Columbian sites. From what I remember, it has many pieces from the Moche civilization. As for the Moche statuettes, the prudish might look away. Probably a veneration of the god Priapus without knowing it.
*Nazca Lines Discovered by German archaeologist Maria Reiche, they stretch for kilometers. The designs in the desert around Nazca depict animals and cabalistic signs. The question I ask myself is why the creators of these lines represented a monkey and a hummingbird—species endemic to the tropical forest, not the desert plains around Nazca.
*Machu Picchu: means "old mountain" in Quechua. There’s also Wayna Picchu. The ruins of the site emerge from a sort of small plateau above Aguas Calientes. When the mist rises above the site and the bend of the Urubamba River, it’s truly magical... Also the starting point of the Inca Trail.
*Coca tea A decoction/infusion of the coca plant, meant to ease altitude sickness or *soroche*
*Chullo A rough translation would be a Peruvian wool hat.
*Moche: a civilization established in the Moche Valley, hence the term *Mochica*. What characterizes this civilization are the distinctive clay pieces representing faces and erotic statuettes
*Papa a la Huancaína A local potato dish
*Pisac: a typical market near Cusco
*Pisco Sour: perhaps the Peruvian equivalent of the *caipirinha* you drink in Brazil.
*Puya Raimondii A Bromeliaceae that still looks like a cactus, endemic to the Altiplano
*Quechua The language spoken by the indigenous people of the high plateaus (as well as Aymara in Bolivia)
*Quipu A knotted string used for counting. Widely used by the Inca administration.
*Sacsayhuamán (Q’enqo, Inca Bath) From Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, take the streets that climb above the city. Sacsayhuamán is called a fortress and is made up of large stone blocks. You wonder how the Incas could cut such huge blocks to assemble them—just like some streets in Cusco. The Q’enqo block is enigmatic; no one really knows what it represents.
*Savia Andina An Andean folk group.
*Tambo (=> Ollantaytambo) The Inca emperor (Atahualpa, Manco Capac) had the mission of controlling a vast empire. An empire that was still very extensive. Hence the importance of these *tambos* or relay stations. Napoleon created the civil code; the Incas invented the *tambos* and *quipus*.
*Tawantinsuyu: the Inca Empire
*Tinku: a warrior dance practiced mainly in Bolivia
*Golden Tumi: a sacrificial weapon. Often featured in Peru travel guides. See illustration
*Terra X: a documentary series from the German TV channel that aired on Arte. Some episodes focused on pre-Inca and Inca Peru. I must have some old recording tapes. In memory of Gottfried Kirchner as a source of inspiration.
*Uros: I checked—it actually refers to the people who live on these floating islands. Even if it’s touristy, it’s a must-visit because it’s incredible how people can live on islets made from nothing. Take the boat from Puno
*Vicuña, llama, guanaco: camelids characteristic of the Altiplano
*Wayna Picchu The young Picchu mountain. In the first minutes of *Aguirre, the Wrath of God*, you see Klaus Kinski—well, Aguirre—making his way along the Inca Trail. Werner Herzog must have broken his back filming those sequences.
*Zampoña: pan flute
Peru is still a very vast country, with so much to see, and obviously this text can't list all the attractions of the country.
*Abiseo (River) A national park that's very hard to access and doesn’t seem open to visitors. Includes the Gran Pajaten site (see below). Personally, it really sparks my imagination (not visited personally)
*Aguas Calientes the town next to Machu Picchu, more precisely below the archaeological site. As far as I know, you can only get there by train. Reminds me of the market where stalls line both sides of the tracks near Bangkok. I love it
*Altiplano: somewhere the "heart" of the Andes. I was able to trek across it on foot, starting from Caracollo in Bolivia, and of course, it’s vast plains to explore. This is where people live in a very rural way. Andean populations are quite austere compared to those in the lowlands or on the coast. You really have to appreciate the harshness of life to live there. Life is anything but superficial. I set a compass heading and found myself walking west toward the expanse of water near a place called La Joya. For pitching the tent, the nights were still chilly
*Canyon del Colca One of the deepest canyons in the world. Personally, I hiked down and back up on foot. The toughest stretch I’ve ever covered in my life.
*Ceviche More or less the national dish. A marinade of fish, shellfish, and lime. But you can find it in some restaurants in Europe, France, and certainly in Belgium or Switzerland. In the small restaurants of Pisco, you can eat excellent ceviche
*Cerro Sechín: Mostly bas-reliefs. A site little known to travelers in the Casma province. The first vestiges of a pre-Inca civilization with iconography similar to that of Chavín (not visited personally)
*Chan Chan A large city of the Chimú civilization and relatively vast to visit. You can see adobe walls with bas-reliefs. Visit from Trujillo, take a colectivo. Plan for the whole day
*Charango: a small guitar widely used in Andean music
*Chauchilla A necropolis near Nazca where you can see mummies exposed on the ground. YouTubers can do paranormal experiments there. And for anyone wondering about the fate of the soul and body after death, here’s the answer: the body remains after death. You can imagine your own flesh and body exposed to the winds of the Pampa and before eternity... (not visited personally)
*Chavín de Huántar (Lanzón) The site’s appeal lies in its mountainous surroundings, the Lanzón stela, and the sculpted heads on the façades. What few people know is that the Chavín civilization began its expansion centuries before the Incas. Unfortunately, you can’t get too close to see the Lanzón—the day I was there, it was protected by grilles. To get there: minibus from Huaraz or trek from Olleros. Then cross a high pass (over 5,000m). If you do it solo on foot, be careful—the path isn’t obvious from Olleros
*Chullpa: funerary tower, notably at Sillustani in the Lake Titicaca region
*Chimú: pre-Inca civilization whose center was Chan Chan.
*Chola/Cholitas (Bolivia): typical clothing style of women from the Andean plateaus
*Chompa: pronounce it *Chompaaa!* A common term for a wool sweater with vicuña patterns, often knitted from alpaca wool. If you dress like this, it’s a bit kitschy around the edges
*Cuy That one isn’t a guinea pig like in Guyana but an actual guinea pig. During a trip to Peru, I was hiking near a village north of Quillabamba (the terminus of the train line that passes through Aguas Calientes), and I was invited to stay in a house. The family raised a few of these pets. Apparently, the locals eat them. Since I’m not much of a meat-eater, it doesn’t really tempt me. How about you?
*Pacific Coast or how to talk about a place you haven’t visited? Except for the coast near Pisco and San Andrés, I haven’t visited any coastal cities. But that doesn’t mean these places lack interest or poetry. For fans of clichéd images, pelicans, seabirds, and fishing boats appear by the sea.
*Gran Pajaten: also closed to the public. Features anthropomorphic bas-reliefs. (not visited personally)
*Huaca. Visit the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna, especially near Trujillo. However, you can skip them—Chan Chan is still more interesting. Don’t forget to spend time visiting Chan Chan
*Huacachina A small oasis in the desert near Ica. Yes, we’re talking about an oasis because for those who’ve never traveled to Peru, the coastal strip along the Pacific is almost entirely desert, from north to south. Peru is territorially made up of three different regions: the desert coast, the Altiplano stretching north to south with mountain ranges (the Cordilleras), and the Amazon basin to the east. (not visited personally)
*Inca Kola It’s neither Coca-Cola nor Pepsi but a unique cola with a slightly orange color. Tastes like bubble gum
*Intiwatana: a carved rock shaped like a parallelepiped. Is it a sundial?
*Ballestas Islands: a highlight in Peru, though very touristy. You can only get there by boat from the port of San Andrés, a few kilometers from Pisco. It’s a surreal place to me—actually islets with cavities where sea lions and fur seals live. Since it’s a protected area, you’re not allowed to disembark. Guano is harvested there, which can be used as fertilizer.
*Kuelap: a fortress built by the Chachapoyas people. Rarely visited by travelers. (not visited personally)
*Larco Museum: an iconic museum in Lima with a large collection of pieces from archaeological and pre-Columbian sites. From what I remember, it has many pieces from the Moche civilization. As for the Moche statuettes, the prudish might look away. Probably a veneration of the god Priapus without knowing it.
*Nazca Lines Discovered by German archaeologist Maria Reiche, they stretch for kilometers. The designs in the desert around Nazca depict animals and cabalistic signs. The question I ask myself is why the creators of these lines represented a monkey and a hummingbird—species endemic to the tropical forest, not the desert plains around Nazca.
*Machu Picchu: means "old mountain" in Quechua. There’s also Wayna Picchu. The ruins of the site emerge from a sort of small plateau above Aguas Calientes. When the mist rises above the site and the bend of the Urubamba River, it’s truly magical... Also the starting point of the Inca Trail.
*Coca tea A decoction/infusion of the coca plant, meant to ease altitude sickness or *soroche*
*Chullo A rough translation would be a Peruvian wool hat.
*Moche: a civilization established in the Moche Valley, hence the term *Mochica*. What characterizes this civilization are the distinctive clay pieces representing faces and erotic statuettes
*Papa a la Huancaína A local potato dish
*Pisac: a typical market near Cusco
*Pisco Sour: perhaps the Peruvian equivalent of the *caipirinha* you drink in Brazil.
*Puya Raimondii A Bromeliaceae that still looks like a cactus, endemic to the Altiplano
*Quechua The language spoken by the indigenous people of the high plateaus (as well as Aymara in Bolivia)
*Quipu A knotted string used for counting. Widely used by the Inca administration.
*Sacsayhuamán (Q’enqo, Inca Bath) From Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, take the streets that climb above the city. Sacsayhuamán is called a fortress and is made up of large stone blocks. You wonder how the Incas could cut such huge blocks to assemble them—just like some streets in Cusco. The Q’enqo block is enigmatic; no one really knows what it represents.
*Savia Andina An Andean folk group.
*Tambo (=> Ollantaytambo) The Inca emperor (Atahualpa, Manco Capac) had the mission of controlling a vast empire. An empire that was still very extensive. Hence the importance of these *tambos* or relay stations. Napoleon created the civil code; the Incas invented the *tambos* and *quipus*.
*Tawantinsuyu: the Inca Empire
*Tinku: a warrior dance practiced mainly in Bolivia
*Golden Tumi: a sacrificial weapon. Often featured in Peru travel guides. See illustration
*Terra X: a documentary series from the German TV channel that aired on Arte. Some episodes focused on pre-Inca and Inca Peru. I must have some old recording tapes. In memory of Gottfried Kirchner as a source of inspiration.
*Uros: I checked—it actually refers to the people who live on these floating islands. Even if it’s touristy, it’s a must-visit because it’s incredible how people can live on islets made from nothing. Take the boat from Puno
*Vicuña, llama, guanaco: camelids characteristic of the Altiplano
*Wayna Picchu The young Picchu mountain. In the first minutes of *Aguirre, the Wrath of God*, you see Klaus Kinski—well, Aguirre—making his way along the Inca Trail. Werner Herzog must have broken his back filming those sequences.
*Zampoña: pan flute
March 2026 Photo Contest Theme: Metal, Metallic
The 139th edition of this contest is now open, and this month’s theme is:
« Metal, Metallic».
From ore to rockets, wire to the Eiffel Tower—or in a pinch, even a self-portrait at the bottom of a spoon—the theme is broad enough that you should be able to come up with at least three ideas pretty easily! Sure, things might get tricky when it’s time to vote, but that could just be a sign of a successful contest, right?! But we’re not there yet.
Contest rules: You can post up to three photos, each in a separate message, clearly indicating their number (1, 2, or 3) along with the location where the photo was taken. Any explanations about your photos are welcome.
You’ll vote for three photos, clearly stating the name of the participant you’ve chosen, followed by the photo number. The first photo in your vote will receive three points, the second two points, and the third one point.
The winner will be the person whose photo earns the most points. In case of a tie, the winner will be the one with the most first-place votes—or, if still tied, the most second-place votes. Finally, if it’s a perfect tie, the winner will be the one who reached their score first. The winner will then have the pleasure of choosing the theme for the April 2026 contest and organizing it. Ties for any position other than first won’t be broken. Lastly, you don’t need to participate in the contest to vote. However, participants (and I hope there’ll be lots of you!) are strongly encouraged to vote!
Please only post contest photos in this thread, and starting Thursday, March 26 (00:01 Paris time), only votes.
Key dates: You can submit your photos starting today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, until Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (23:59 Paris time). Voting will begin the minute after and end on Monday, March 30 (23:59 Paris time). Results will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 ... if all goes well!
A discussion thread for this contest is open HERE: The photorama can be found HERE
From ore to rockets, wire to the Eiffel Tower—or in a pinch, even a self-portrait at the bottom of a spoon—the theme is broad enough that you should be able to come up with at least three ideas pretty easily! Sure, things might get tricky when it’s time to vote, but that could just be a sign of a successful contest, right?! But we’re not there yet.
Contest rules: You can post up to three photos, each in a separate message, clearly indicating their number (1, 2, or 3) along with the location where the photo was taken. Any explanations about your photos are welcome.
You’ll vote for three photos, clearly stating the name of the participant you’ve chosen, followed by the photo number. The first photo in your vote will receive three points, the second two points, and the third one point.
The winner will be the person whose photo earns the most points. In case of a tie, the winner will be the one with the most first-place votes—or, if still tied, the most second-place votes. Finally, if it’s a perfect tie, the winner will be the one who reached their score first. The winner will then have the pleasure of choosing the theme for the April 2026 contest and organizing it. Ties for any position other than first won’t be broken. Lastly, you don’t need to participate in the contest to vote. However, participants (and I hope there’ll be lots of you!) are strongly encouraged to vote!
Please only post contest photos in this thread, and starting Thursday, March 26 (00:01 Paris time), only votes.
Key dates: You can submit your photos starting today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, until Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (23:59 Paris time). Voting will begin the minute after and end on Monday, March 30 (23:59 Paris time). Results will be announced on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 ... if all goes well!
A discussion thread for this contest is open HERE: The photorama can be found HERE
5 weeks in the American West with family in summer 2026
Hi everyone!
After years of hoping, waiting, planning, then changing, saving, and searching for the best possible route... we're FINALLY off this summer for a 5-week road trip in the West.
I had planned a trip to Colorado in 2021 but canceled due to COVID, so with time passing and my eldest’s high school graduation approaching fast, I figured it was now or never!
Anyway, the itinerary has been modified and extended to please everyone (I’m no longer the only one making decisions!!)
Here’s our final route: Day 1 - 7/12/2026 - Brussels / Los Angeles Day 2 - 7/13/2026 - Los Angeles Day 3 - 7/14/2026 - Los Angeles Day 4 - 7/15/2026 - Los Angeles Day 5 - 7/16/2026 - Los Angeles Day 6 - 7/17/2026 - Los Angeles / Kingman Day 7 - 7/18/2026 - Kingman / Grand Canyon Day 8 - 7/19/2026 - Grand Canyon / Page Day 9 - 7/20/2026 - Page Day 10 - 7/21/2026 - Page / Monument Valley Day 11 - 7/22/2026 - Monument Valley / Durango Day 12 - 7/23/2026 - Durango Day 13 - 7/24/2026 - Durango Day 14 - 7/25/2026 - Durango Day 15 - 7/26/2026 - Durango / Glenwood Springs Day 16 - 7/27/2026 - Glenwood Springs Day 17 - 7/28/2026 - Glenwood Springs / Moab Day 18 - 7/29/2026 - Moab Day 19 - 7/30/2026 - Moab Day 20 - 7/31/2026 - Moab Day 21 - 8/1/2026 - Moab Day 22 - 8/2/2026 - Moab / Vernal Day 23 - 8/3/2026 - Vernal / Grand Teton Day 24 - 8/4/2026 - Grand Teton Day 25 - 8/5/2026 - Grand Teton / Cody Day 26 - 8/6/2026 - Cody / Yellowstone Day 27 - 8/7/2026 - Yellowstone Day 28 - 8/8/2026 - Yellowstone Day 29 - 8/9/2026 - Yellowstone Day 30 - 8/10/2026 - Yellowstone / Salt Lake City Day 31 - 8/11/2026 - Salt Lake City / Bryce Canyon Day 32 - 8/12/2026 - Bryce Canyon / Zion Day 33 - 8/13/2026 - Zion Day 34 - 8/14/2026 - Zion Day 35 - 8/15/2026 - Zion / Las Vegas Day 36 - 8/16/2026 - Las Vegas Day 37 - 8/17/2026 - Las Vegas / Los Angeles Day 38 - 8/18/2026 - Los Angeles Day 39 - 8/19/2026 - Los Angeles / Brussels Day 40 - 8/20/2026 - Brussels / Home
We’ll be alternating between house swaps, motels, and campgrounds. I’ve booked all the accommodations (except the campground at Bryce since sunset bookings open only 14 days in advance) and the first activities, as well as the most touristy ones.
I’m currently putting together my day-by-day roadbook and having some trouble planning certain days, like in LA or Las Vegas. Choosing hikes isn’t easy either—it’s tough to decide!
We’re really excited but could definitely use your help with choices and optimizations!!
I had planned a trip to Colorado in 2021 but canceled due to COVID, so with time passing and my eldest’s high school graduation approaching fast, I figured it was now or never!
Anyway, the itinerary has been modified and extended to please everyone (I’m no longer the only one making decisions!!)
Here’s our final route: Day 1 - 7/12/2026 - Brussels / Los Angeles Day 2 - 7/13/2026 - Los Angeles Day 3 - 7/14/2026 - Los Angeles Day 4 - 7/15/2026 - Los Angeles Day 5 - 7/16/2026 - Los Angeles Day 6 - 7/17/2026 - Los Angeles / Kingman Day 7 - 7/18/2026 - Kingman / Grand Canyon Day 8 - 7/19/2026 - Grand Canyon / Page Day 9 - 7/20/2026 - Page Day 10 - 7/21/2026 - Page / Monument Valley Day 11 - 7/22/2026 - Monument Valley / Durango Day 12 - 7/23/2026 - Durango Day 13 - 7/24/2026 - Durango Day 14 - 7/25/2026 - Durango Day 15 - 7/26/2026 - Durango / Glenwood Springs Day 16 - 7/27/2026 - Glenwood Springs Day 17 - 7/28/2026 - Glenwood Springs / Moab Day 18 - 7/29/2026 - Moab Day 19 - 7/30/2026 - Moab Day 20 - 7/31/2026 - Moab Day 21 - 8/1/2026 - Moab Day 22 - 8/2/2026 - Moab / Vernal Day 23 - 8/3/2026 - Vernal / Grand Teton Day 24 - 8/4/2026 - Grand Teton Day 25 - 8/5/2026 - Grand Teton / Cody Day 26 - 8/6/2026 - Cody / Yellowstone Day 27 - 8/7/2026 - Yellowstone Day 28 - 8/8/2026 - Yellowstone Day 29 - 8/9/2026 - Yellowstone Day 30 - 8/10/2026 - Yellowstone / Salt Lake City Day 31 - 8/11/2026 - Salt Lake City / Bryce Canyon Day 32 - 8/12/2026 - Bryce Canyon / Zion Day 33 - 8/13/2026 - Zion Day 34 - 8/14/2026 - Zion Day 35 - 8/15/2026 - Zion / Las Vegas Day 36 - 8/16/2026 - Las Vegas Day 37 - 8/17/2026 - Las Vegas / Los Angeles Day 38 - 8/18/2026 - Los Angeles Day 39 - 8/19/2026 - Los Angeles / Brussels Day 40 - 8/20/2026 - Brussels / Home
We’ll be alternating between house swaps, motels, and campgrounds. I’ve booked all the accommodations (except the campground at Bryce since sunset bookings open only 14 days in advance) and the first activities, as well as the most touristy ones.
I’m currently putting together my day-by-day roadbook and having some trouble planning certain days, like in LA or Las Vegas. Choosing hikes isn’t easy either—it’s tough to decide!
We’re really excited but could definitely use your help with choices and optimizations!!
Kruger-Cape Town combo: which way to do the circuit?
Alright, this time it's definite—I'm heading to South Africa next October! 😎
Two weeks for a Kruger-Cape Town combo is short... but better than nothing 😉 Before booking the flight tickets, two quick preliminary questions (more will definitely follow): Is there a preferred direction (Kruger first or Cape Town first)? Is it better to go during the first half of October, the second half (or the middle 😏), or does the current unpredictable weather make it all pretty much the same in the end?
Two weeks for a Kruger-Cape Town combo is short... but better than nothing 😉 Before booking the flight tickets, two quick preliminary questions (more will definitely follow): Is there a preferred direction (Kruger first or Cape Town first)? Is it better to go during the first half of October, the second half (or the middle 😏), or does the current unpredictable weather make it all pretty much the same in the end?
Motel or RV in the American West?
Hey everyone,
we’re heading to the American West for 21 days in August.
Two options for us:
renting a regular car and staying in motels, or going with an RV.
We’ve traveled a lot in Southern Africa on our own with a 4x4 roof-top tent, but the US is a whole different story.
I’d love to hear your thoughts—budget-wise, we’re probably looking at similar costs.
Thanks for your input!
Thierry
4-Week Itinerary in South Africa
Hello,
We’re a group of four seventy-something retirees and we’re planning a 4-week trip to South Africa. We’re seasoned "adventurers" used to multi-week stays (we’ve been to India seven times, Mexico, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Australia, etc.).
For South Africa, we’re thinking of covering most of the trip in a private vehicle and taking flights for inter-state transfers. We’re interested in meeting people, learning about the country’s evolution, exploring major cities, visiting traditional villages, and seeing wildlife.
Here’s the itinerary we’re considering: Johannesburg – 2 days (we’ll pass through again later) Pretoria – 2 days Blyde River Canyon and Graskop – 1 day Acornhoek – 1 day Letaba – 2 days Lobamba – 2 days Johannesburg – 1 day
Flight to Cape Town
Cape Town – 3 days Cape of Good Hope – 1 day Stellenbosch – 1 day Hermanus – 1 day Mossel Bay – 2 days Oudtshoorn Wilderness – 2 days Knysna Port Elizabeth – 2 days Addo Elephant Park
Flight back to Johannesburg
Johannesburg – 1 day
Return to Paris
Could you share your thoughts on this itinerary? We’ll be renting a vehicle to explore both regions. We can easily add 4–5 more days to the trip if needed.
We’re looking at traveling either between April and May 2026 or in October/November 2026.
I’ll follow up later to discuss the best safari options and get a rough budget estimate.
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to read this and share their thoughts!
For South Africa, we’re thinking of covering most of the trip in a private vehicle and taking flights for inter-state transfers. We’re interested in meeting people, learning about the country’s evolution, exploring major cities, visiting traditional villages, and seeing wildlife.
Here’s the itinerary we’re considering: Johannesburg – 2 days (we’ll pass through again later) Pretoria – 2 days Blyde River Canyon and Graskop – 1 day Acornhoek – 1 day Letaba – 2 days Lobamba – 2 days Johannesburg – 1 day
Flight to Cape Town
Cape Town – 3 days Cape of Good Hope – 1 day Stellenbosch – 1 day Hermanus – 1 day Mossel Bay – 2 days Oudtshoorn Wilderness – 2 days Knysna Port Elizabeth – 2 days Addo Elephant Park
Flight back to Johannesburg
Johannesburg – 1 day
Return to Paris
Could you share your thoughts on this itinerary? We’ll be renting a vehicle to explore both regions. We can easily add 4–5 more days to the trip if needed.
We’re looking at traveling either between April and May 2026 or in October/November 2026.
I’ll follow up later to discuss the best safari options and get a rough budget estimate.
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to read this and share their thoughts!
Southwest USA in August: possible or not with the heat?
Hi everyone.
For 2026, I’m considering what might be my last long trip to the States.
A loop from Dallas back to Dallas via Houston, San Antonio, Tucson, Albuquerque...
Simple question: Is it doable in August with the extreme heat?
Best,
For 2026, I’m considering what might be my last long trip to the States.
A loop from Dallas back to Dallas via Houston, San Antonio, Tucson, Albuquerque...
Simple question: Is it doable in August with the extreme heat?
Best,
Route from Windhoek to Namaqualand (Africa)
Hi there,
From Windhoek to Namaqualand, is it possible to take a route further east than the B1 national road, and are there any points of interest along that way?
Thanks in advance.
West USA Road Trip August 2022
Hello everyone,
I’m starting a travel journal about the amazing round trip I took in August 2022 with a big circuit through the US West.
Here’s what I posted on another travel forum back when VoyageForum hadn’t yet regained its freedom. 😉
Hello!
We got back yesterday in the middle of the afternoon, and here’s a quick first take on the 2022 round trip.
Has America changed? You could say that, yeah. For better? For worse? Who knows. A massive circuit—nearly 8,000 kilometers, actually around 5,000–6,000 miles.
Round-trip flights went smoothly, except for Air France on the way back, which let a rather large dog in the cabin with an owner who let it roam around the plane. Cool, Air France... Outrageous!
The rough itinerary: Salt Lake City. Jackson Hole–Grand Teton. Yellowstone. Cody. Rock Springs. Moab–Arches–Canyonlands. Monument Valley. Grand Canyon. Bryce Canyon. Zion Park. Las Vegas. Death Valley. Mammoth Lakes. Tioga Road. Mariposa. Yosemite Valley. San Francisco.
Tourists on site—a sociological study:
Italians: Always nice but just as loud as ever! Hispanics: Same as the Italians, just a different language. Germans: *Ein, zwei, ach mein Gott!* Order and discipline! Americans: Still no manners whatsoever. Pathetic. I’m only talking about the tourists, not the locals who work there. Quebecers: Pure joy! English-speaking Canadians: Same as the Americans. Asians: For the Japanese, it’s perfect. But the others from the Middle Kingdom... Let’s not start a war over this. There’s already Ukraine going on. And yet... Israelis: Still no manners. The Kibbutz kids are the bane of this country. French: Some excellent, some very good, some good, and some... not much.
Note that tourists in the northern part of the trip were much better behaved than those in the south. "Hello," "Goodbye," offering a hand? Etc. Few Asians in Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Lots of locals. The same goes for hotel staff in the northern part—more attentive. Really cool!
On the other hand, we were pretty surprised not to encounter any African-American locals in Montana, Wyoming, Utah, or even Arizona—whether tourists or employees. It’s quite striking, to be honest.
The Hotels:
Holiday Inn - 206 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States. A modern but soulless hotel. Basically, a place to pass through. Minimal breakfast.
Miller Park Lodge - 155 North Jackson Street - Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Not a hotel but a luxury motel. 750 € for two nights!! No breakfast. Huge room where you could hold a tea dance!! Well-located. No staff. Only room of the month-long stay that was fully redone during those two days.
Best Western Weston Inn. 103 Gibbon Avenue, West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Well-located, not far from the park entrance. Minimal breakfast. Friendly staff. Room refreshed every two days.
Best Western Sunset Inn. 1601 8th St, Cody, 82414-4134 Very good. Quiet. Good breakfast. Friendly staff.
Baymont by Wyndham 2717 Dewar Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901 Very good. Quiet. Good breakfast. Friendly staff. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene!
Wingate by Wyndham Moab. 126 South Highway 191, Moab, 84532 End of the "family" hotels. Start of the tourist hotels. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Minimal breakfast.
Hampton Inn Kayenta. US Highway 160, Kayenta, AZ 86033, United States A stopover hotel run by the Navajos. Friendly staff wearing masks. Lots of people. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Minimal breakfast.
La Quinta by Wyndham Williams. 1100 Cataract Lake Rd, Williams, AZ 86046, United States Finally, Route 66 for 500 meters! The staff is there. Nothing more. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Minimal breakfast.
BEST WESTERN PLUS Ruby's Inn. 26 South Main Street, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764, United States A factory!!! Great Hispanic or Romanian staff! A liquor store in the hotel! Awesome! Very good breakfast, but go early because the crowd—and the jerks—are there! Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene!
BEST WESTERN Casino Royale - 3411 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Strip, Las Vegas Good hotel at a reasonable price. No breakfast, but Denny’s is next door. Quiet hotel despite the casino. Friendly staff. No memory of seeing any pets!
Shilo Inn Mammoth Lake. 2963 Main Street, Mammoth Lake Disastrous! Ineffective security system. Fire doors propped open with wooden wedges. Tiny breakfast room. No staff in the room. Tables not cleaned. Minimal breakfast. Gross pool. Rooms need work. No, the whole hotel needs to be redone. They say they’re renovating. They’d be better off tearing it down. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Very bad memory. Apparently, there’s supposed to be staff in this hotel.
Quality Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway. 4994 Bullion Street, Mariposa, CA 95338 Hotel or motel? Booking should clean up its listings! No room refresh! Minimal breakfast. The staff is there. Nothing more.
Comfort Inn by the Bay. 775 Van Ness Avenue, Marina District, San Francisco No room refresh in four days! Minimal breakfast. Friendly and helpful staff. Well-located. Depends on what for, but well-located.
And then there are those who steal apples from the breakfast to put in their bags in the morning, those who fill up their famous US water bottles with orange juice from the breakfast pump, those who don’t clear their tables—I could go on. And also, those who don’t say hello or respond to a greeting!
Met some super nice French people (in the northern parks)! They’ll recognize themselves!
And the magic phrase that opens doors with Americans: "Do you speak French? OK, good!" Laughter guaranteed!
Don’t try that with Asians who run souvenir shops in big cities—they have no sense of humor unless it’s about the color of the green bill.
The park rangers are always available! Great!
And 5,000 photos to sort and organize, plus a few hours of dashcam videos!
See you soon.
Until the next update...
I’m starting a travel journal about the amazing round trip I took in August 2022 with a big circuit through the US West.
Here’s what I posted on another travel forum back when VoyageForum hadn’t yet regained its freedom. 😉
Hello!
We got back yesterday in the middle of the afternoon, and here’s a quick first take on the 2022 round trip.
Has America changed? You could say that, yeah. For better? For worse? Who knows. A massive circuit—nearly 8,000 kilometers, actually around 5,000–6,000 miles.
Round-trip flights went smoothly, except for Air France on the way back, which let a rather large dog in the cabin with an owner who let it roam around the plane. Cool, Air France... Outrageous!
The rough itinerary: Salt Lake City. Jackson Hole–Grand Teton. Yellowstone. Cody. Rock Springs. Moab–Arches–Canyonlands. Monument Valley. Grand Canyon. Bryce Canyon. Zion Park. Las Vegas. Death Valley. Mammoth Lakes. Tioga Road. Mariposa. Yosemite Valley. San Francisco.
Tourists on site—a sociological study:
Italians: Always nice but just as loud as ever! Hispanics: Same as the Italians, just a different language. Germans: *Ein, zwei, ach mein Gott!* Order and discipline! Americans: Still no manners whatsoever. Pathetic. I’m only talking about the tourists, not the locals who work there. Quebecers: Pure joy! English-speaking Canadians: Same as the Americans. Asians: For the Japanese, it’s perfect. But the others from the Middle Kingdom... Let’s not start a war over this. There’s already Ukraine going on. And yet... Israelis: Still no manners. The Kibbutz kids are the bane of this country. French: Some excellent, some very good, some good, and some... not much.
Note that tourists in the northern part of the trip were much better behaved than those in the south. "Hello," "Goodbye," offering a hand? Etc. Few Asians in Grand Teton and Yellowstone. Lots of locals. The same goes for hotel staff in the northern part—more attentive. Really cool!
On the other hand, we were pretty surprised not to encounter any African-American locals in Montana, Wyoming, Utah, or even Arizona—whether tourists or employees. It’s quite striking, to be honest.
The Hotels:
Holiday Inn - 206 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States. A modern but soulless hotel. Basically, a place to pass through. Minimal breakfast.
Miller Park Lodge - 155 North Jackson Street - Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Not a hotel but a luxury motel. 750 € for two nights!! No breakfast. Huge room where you could hold a tea dance!! Well-located. No staff. Only room of the month-long stay that was fully redone during those two days.
Best Western Weston Inn. 103 Gibbon Avenue, West Yellowstone, MT 59758 Well-located, not far from the park entrance. Minimal breakfast. Friendly staff. Room refreshed every two days.
Best Western Sunset Inn. 1601 8th St, Cody, 82414-4134 Very good. Quiet. Good breakfast. Friendly staff.
Baymont by Wyndham 2717 Dewar Drive, Rock Springs, WY 82901 Very good. Quiet. Good breakfast. Friendly staff. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene!
Wingate by Wyndham Moab. 126 South Highway 191, Moab, 84532 End of the "family" hotels. Start of the tourist hotels. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Minimal breakfast.
Hampton Inn Kayenta. US Highway 160, Kayenta, AZ 86033, United States A stopover hotel run by the Navajos. Friendly staff wearing masks. Lots of people. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Minimal breakfast.
La Quinta by Wyndham Williams. 1100 Cataract Lake Rd, Williams, AZ 86046, United States Finally, Route 66 for 500 meters! The staff is there. Nothing more. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Minimal breakfast.
BEST WESTERN PLUS Ruby's Inn. 26 South Main Street, Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764, United States A factory!!! Great Hispanic or Romanian staff! A liquor store in the hotel! Awesome! Very good breakfast, but go early because the crowd—and the jerks—are there! Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene!
BEST WESTERN Casino Royale - 3411 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Strip, Las Vegas Good hotel at a reasonable price. No breakfast, but Denny’s is next door. Quiet hotel despite the casino. Friendly staff. No memory of seeing any pets!
Shilo Inn Mammoth Lake. 2963 Main Street, Mammoth Lake Disastrous! Ineffective security system. Fire doors propped open with wooden wedges. Tiny breakfast room. No staff in the room. Tables not cleaned. Minimal breakfast. Gross pool. Rooms need work. No, the whole hotel needs to be redone. They say they’re renovating. They’d be better off tearing it down. Too many pets that should be "not allowed." Hello, hygiene! Very bad memory. Apparently, there’s supposed to be staff in this hotel.
Quality Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway. 4994 Bullion Street, Mariposa, CA 95338 Hotel or motel? Booking should clean up its listings! No room refresh! Minimal breakfast. The staff is there. Nothing more.
Comfort Inn by the Bay. 775 Van Ness Avenue, Marina District, San Francisco No room refresh in four days! Minimal breakfast. Friendly and helpful staff. Well-located. Depends on what for, but well-located.
And then there are those who steal apples from the breakfast to put in their bags in the morning, those who fill up their famous US water bottles with orange juice from the breakfast pump, those who don’t clear their tables—I could go on. And also, those who don’t say hello or respond to a greeting!
Met some super nice French people (in the northern parks)! They’ll recognize themselves!
And the magic phrase that opens doors with Americans: "Do you speak French? OK, good!" Laughter guaranteed!
Don’t try that with Asians who run souvenir shops in big cities—they have no sense of humor unless it’s about the color of the green bill.
The park rangers are always available! Great!
And 5,000 photos to sort and organize, plus a few hours of dashcam videos!
See you soon.
Until the next update...
The great American West in 23 days
Hi there,
I’m right in the middle of planning a trip to the American West—23 days from 07/30 to 08/23.
Departure from Orly to Los Angeles with a layover in San Francisco, and return from Los Angeles to Orly.
Day 1: Orly - San Francisco (1 night)
Day 2 & 3: Los Angeles (2 nights)
Day 4, 5 & 6: San Francisco (3 nights)
Day 7: Lake Tahoe (1 night)
Day 8 & 9: Portland (2 nights)
Day 10, 11 & 12: Seattle (3 nights)
Day 13 & 14: Yellowstone (2 nights)
Day 15 & 16: Salt Lake City (2 nights)
Day 17 & 18: Las Vegas (2 nights)
Day 19 & 20: Grand Canyon (2 nights)
Day 21 & 22: Los Angeles (2 nights)
Day 23: Return flight (1 night in the air)
The flight’s already booked: 2250 € for 3 people. Car’s reserved—just finalized the last booking today: a Rav4 for 23 days from Sixt in Santa Monica, 715 € (all insurance included). Hotels are booked with free cancellation since I keep finding better options, and the itinerary isn’t 100% set yet.
The flight’s already booked: 2250 € for 3 people. Car’s reserved—just finalized the last booking today: a Rav4 for 23 days from Sixt in Santa Monica, 715 € (all insurance included). Hotels are booked with free cancellation since I keep finding better options, and the itinerary isn’t 100% set yet.
Which route to choose for Taos to Albuquerque?
Hi everyone,
For our leg from Taos to Albuquerque, we have two options with roughly the same mileage and driving time:
Either the light blue route (NM 518 then NM 76)
or the dark blue route (NM 68), which would let us visit the Embudo Gas Museum.
We’d love to stop at the Chimayó Sanctuary if it’s worth the small detour.
We’ll have already taken NM 518 from Las Vegas to Taos.
Which route is prettier and has the most points of interest?
Afterward, we’ll take the Turquoise Trail between Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
Thanks for your input!
Marcalamar :)
Roswell to Tucumcari leg: Route 66 conditions
Hi everyone! 🙂
We’re on the Roswell–Tucumcari leg. We’ll go through Fort Sumner. After visiting, there are two ways to reach Tucumcari:
Take US 84 to Santa Rosa, see its Blue Hole, then the almost ghost towns on the historic Route 66 (Cuervo, Newkirk, and Montoya). We won’t visit the Route 66 auto museum (we’ll do the one in Tucumcari). The other option is to take 252 and then 209.
The next day, we plan to head to our next stop in Las Vegas (the one in NM) by going up the Mesalands Scenic Byway (104).
Is the detour to Santa Rosa worth it? Are the historic Route 66 sections drivable?
Thanks for your tips! Marcalamar 🙂
We’re on the Roswell–Tucumcari leg. We’ll go through Fort Sumner. After visiting, there are two ways to reach Tucumcari:
Take US 84 to Santa Rosa, see its Blue Hole, then the almost ghost towns on the historic Route 66 (Cuervo, Newkirk, and Montoya). We won’t visit the Route 66 auto museum (we’ll do the one in Tucumcari). The other option is to take 252 and then 209.
The next day, we plan to head to our next stop in Las Vegas (the one in NM) by going up the Mesalands Scenic Byway (104).
Is the detour to Santa Rosa worth it? Are the historic Route 66 sections drivable?
Thanks for your tips! Marcalamar 🙂
Have you considered Reunion Island as a destination?
Reunion Island, a French island located in the Indian Ocean, is characterized by remarkable geographical and cultural diversity. This island offers an immersive experience that harmoniously blends wild nature and human heritage, between active volcanoes, mountainous cirques, impressive waterfalls, and charming villages. This report explores the must-see spots, from the lunar landscapes of Piton de la Fournaise to the mountainous trails of the Mafate cirque, not forgetting the natural pools and tropical gardens. Each section highlights a distinct aspect of this vibrant island, supported by geological and historical information, as well as accounts from those who have visited.
Piton de la Fournaise, which reaches a height of 2,632 meters, is one of the most active volcanoes on our planet. Its frequent eruptions constantly shape the landscape, offering a natural spectacle where burning lava meets the ocean. The trail leading to the Dolomieu crater, though difficult to access, is open to hikers and rewards them with a panorama of vast expanses of solidified lava and volcanic gas emissions. It’s usually best to visit at this time of day to avoid clouds and enjoy the low light that enhances the lunar reliefs.
Volcanic activity has also given rise to unique structures, such as the lava tunnels of Grand Brûlé, where tourists can walk along cooled lava flows. For geology enthusiasts, the site of Cassé de la Rivière de l'Est reveals incredible basaltic organ pipes, testifying to ancient eruptions.
Despite its inactivity, Piton des Neiges (3,071 m) remains the island’s highest peak. Its ascent, via the GR R2 trail, passes through virgin forests before reaching rocky landscapes where sunrise offers a 360° panoramic view of the three cirques. This extinct volcano symbolizes Reunion Island’s geological history, characterized by successive collapses that gave birth to the surrounding cirques.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Salazie cirque charms with its lush greenery and hamlets clinging to cliffs. Hell-Bourg, listed among France’s most beautiful villages, delights with its brightly colored Creole houses and picturesque cobblestone streets. The trek to Voile de la Mariée, a famous waterfall, winds through bamboo groves and natural pools perfect for a swim.
Mafate, a preserved haven of tranquility, is accessible only on foot or by helicopter. Places like La Nouvelle or Marla, small villages called "îlets," offer a glimpse into traditional life on Reunion Island. The GR R1 trail, which circles Piton des Neiges, immerses hikers in breathtaking landscapes, alternating between rocky ridges and narrow valleys.
Known for its lentils and wines, Cilaos combines culinary delights with stunning scenery. The healing properties of the thermal springs at Bras-Rouge are highlighted by the trails leading to them, which also offer panoramas like the Col du Taïbit, a privileged access point to Mafate.
This unique spot features pebble beaches, waterfalls by the sea, and a palm forest. Picnickers enjoy its peaceful atmosphere, while local fishermen maintain ancient traditions. Nearby, the Garden of Perfumes and Spices cultivates vanilla, cloves, and turmeric, offering an olfactory experience at the heart of Reunionese agriculture.
Bassin Boeuf, famous for its turquoise waters, is a popular swimming spot, framed by volcanic formations. Further south, the Langevin River creates a series of waterfalls and natural pools, including the famous Trou de Fer, a 300-meter-deep canyon where water cascades in a shimmering curtain.
The island’s capital blends colonial heritage with modernity. The Léon Dierx Museum showcases modern art, while the Grand Marché draws visitors with its spices and local crafts. The Barachois promenade, along the sea, evokes the city’s maritime past with its 18th-century cannons.
The Domaine de Villèle, once a colonial plantation, now houses a museum dedicated to the history of slavery and a geranium distillery. The Chapelle Pointue, with its neo-Gothic style, offers a striking contrast to the brightly colored Tamil temples surrounding it.
The GR R1 and R2 trails are popular with experienced hikers, but more accessible routes like the Piton Maido (2,200 m) are suitable for beginners. The latter offers an unparalleled view of the Mafate cirque at dawn.
The coast of Saint-Gilles offers activities like diving, surfing, and paddleboarding, while ULM flights provide an impressive aerial view of Piton de la Fournaise.
Reunion Island presents itself as a microcosm where every landscape tells a story—geological, cultural, or human. Between the fury of volcanoes and the calm of cirques, between the bustle of markets and the tranquility of natural pools, this destination offers a diverse experience. Travelers are encouraged to mix their activities: morning hikes, cultural visits during the day, and moments of relaxation at dusk. Preserving these wonders relies on responsible tourism, respectful of fragile ecosystems and local communities.
Piton de la Fournaise, which reaches a height of 2,632 meters, is one of the most active volcanoes on our planet. Its frequent eruptions constantly shape the landscape, offering a natural spectacle where burning lava meets the ocean. The trail leading to the Dolomieu crater, though difficult to access, is open to hikers and rewards them with a panorama of vast expanses of solidified lava and volcanic gas emissions. It’s usually best to visit at this time of day to avoid clouds and enjoy the low light that enhances the lunar reliefs.
Volcanic activity has also given rise to unique structures, such as the lava tunnels of Grand Brûlé, where tourists can walk along cooled lava flows. For geology enthusiasts, the site of Cassé de la Rivière de l'Est reveals incredible basaltic organ pipes, testifying to ancient eruptions.
Despite its inactivity, Piton des Neiges (3,071 m) remains the island’s highest peak. Its ascent, via the GR R2 trail, passes through virgin forests before reaching rocky landscapes where sunrise offers a 360° panoramic view of the three cirques. This extinct volcano symbolizes Reunion Island’s geological history, characterized by successive collapses that gave birth to the surrounding cirques.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Salazie cirque charms with its lush greenery and hamlets clinging to cliffs. Hell-Bourg, listed among France’s most beautiful villages, delights with its brightly colored Creole houses and picturesque cobblestone streets. The trek to Voile de la Mariée, a famous waterfall, winds through bamboo groves and natural pools perfect for a swim.
Mafate, a preserved haven of tranquility, is accessible only on foot or by helicopter. Places like La Nouvelle or Marla, small villages called "îlets," offer a glimpse into traditional life on Reunion Island. The GR R1 trail, which circles Piton des Neiges, immerses hikers in breathtaking landscapes, alternating between rocky ridges and narrow valleys.
Known for its lentils and wines, Cilaos combines culinary delights with stunning scenery. The healing properties of the thermal springs at Bras-Rouge are highlighted by the trails leading to them, which also offer panoramas like the Col du Taïbit, a privileged access point to Mafate.
This unique spot features pebble beaches, waterfalls by the sea, and a palm forest. Picnickers enjoy its peaceful atmosphere, while local fishermen maintain ancient traditions. Nearby, the Garden of Perfumes and Spices cultivates vanilla, cloves, and turmeric, offering an olfactory experience at the heart of Reunionese agriculture.
Bassin Boeuf, famous for its turquoise waters, is a popular swimming spot, framed by volcanic formations. Further south, the Langevin River creates a series of waterfalls and natural pools, including the famous Trou de Fer, a 300-meter-deep canyon where water cascades in a shimmering curtain.
The island’s capital blends colonial heritage with modernity. The Léon Dierx Museum showcases modern art, while the Grand Marché draws visitors with its spices and local crafts. The Barachois promenade, along the sea, evokes the city’s maritime past with its 18th-century cannons.
The Domaine de Villèle, once a colonial plantation, now houses a museum dedicated to the history of slavery and a geranium distillery. The Chapelle Pointue, with its neo-Gothic style, offers a striking contrast to the brightly colored Tamil temples surrounding it.
The GR R1 and R2 trails are popular with experienced hikers, but more accessible routes like the Piton Maido (2,200 m) are suitable for beginners. The latter offers an unparalleled view of the Mafate cirque at dawn.
The coast of Saint-Gilles offers activities like diving, surfing, and paddleboarding, while ULM flights provide an impressive aerial view of Piton de la Fournaise.
Reunion Island presents itself as a microcosm where every landscape tells a story—geological, cultural, or human. Between the fury of volcanoes and the calm of cirques, between the bustle of markets and the tranquility of natural pools, this destination offers a diverse experience. Travelers are encouraged to mix their activities: morning hikes, cultural visits during the day, and moments of relaxation at dusk. Preserving these wonders relies on responsible tourism, respectful of fragile ecosystems and local communities.
Denver - Yellowstone - Colorado Springs Loop
Hi everyone,
We’ve made up our minds—this summer, we’re heading back to the USA. Our last trip to the American West was in 2017. Back then, I planned my itinerary with help from this forum, and it was perfect.
I’ve drawn inspiration from a few travel journals and some really interesting websites to sketch out a rough route.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this itinerary.
Let me know if I’ve missed any cool stops along the way or if some things seem unnecessary.
My husband and I love hiking, nature, and photography, but we’re not into museums and aren’t big fans of cities.
We’ve sorted our ESTA, checked out hotels, and already booked some with cancellation options. All that’s left is the flight tickets and renting a vehicle.
If you’ve got any tips or great deals, we’d love to hear them. Thanks to anyone who takes the time to share their thoughts!
USA ITINERARY, DENVER/DENVER LOOP, YELLOWSTONE 2025
DAY 1: FLIGHT FROM MARSEILLE, ARRIVAL IN DENVER Arrival in Denver / pick up rental vehicle /
Estes Park, Rocky Mountain (note: a permit is required)
DAY 2: ESTES PARK / ROCKY MOUNTAIN
Rocky Mountain
DAY 3: ROCKY MOUNTAIN / CHEYENNE / FORT LARAMIE / CUSTER
Cheyenne (giant boots, The Wranglers store) Fort Laramie Custer and its Bison statues, Wyoming State Museum (free) Custer State Park
DAY 4: CUSTER, BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Crazy Horse Memorial Mount Rushmore Rapid City (Chapel in the Hills, Presidents’ statues) – hometown of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Badlands National Park
DAY 5: BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Badlands National Park Wall Drugstore (Wall Drug)
DAY 6: WALL / SHERIDAN
Devil’s Tower (1 hour) Buffalo, quick stop Deadwood, an old gold rush town with a well-restored downtown
DAY 7: SHERIDAN / COOKE CITY
Bighorn National Forest Bighorn National Recreation Area (secret arch to find) Chief Joseph Highway, stop at Indian Summit Cody, hometown of Buffalo Bill
DAY 8: COOKE CITY / YELLOWSTONE
Roosevelt Mammoth Hot Springs Norris Basin Lake Village
DAY 9: YELLOWSTONE
Canyon Village South and North Rim Mud Volcano Lake Village
DAY 10: YELLOWSTONE
Lake Village Madison via Norris Basin, Porcelain Basin Old Faithful, Firehole, Midway Basin
DAY 11: YELLOWSTONE
Old Faithful
DAY 12: YELLOWSTONE
Old Faithful West Basin
DAY 13: YELLOWSTONE / GRAND TETON
Grand Teton via the West on Teton Park Road
DAY 14: MORAN / MANILA
Grand Teton via the East route Pilot Butte (wild horses, pronghorns) Rock Springs Red Canyon (visitor center, well-maintained loop)
DAY 15: MANILA / VERNAL
Rock Springs Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Dinosaur National Monument
DAY 16: VERNAL
Dinosaur National Monument
DAY 17: VERNAL / GRAND JUNCTION
Fantasy Canyon (2 hours) Colorado National Monument West entrance
DAY 18: GRAND JUNCTION / MONTROSE
Colorado National Monument East entrance Black Canyon of the Gunnison Crested Butte (lovely spot)
DAY 19: MONTROSE / ALAMOSA
Black Canyon of the Gunnison (3 hours) Great Sand Dunes National Park
DAY 20: ALAMOSA / COLORADO SPRINGS
Great Sand Dunes National Park Paint Mines Interpretive Park (2 hours) Garden of the Gods in downtown Colorado Springs
DAY 21: COLORADO SPRINGS / SILVERTHORNE OR DENVER
Bass Pro Shop (outdoor gear store) Outlets in Silverthorne or visit Denver
DAY 22: SILVERTHORNE OR DENVER
Wash the vehicle / fill up with gas
Flight departure at 4:30 PM (tentative)
DAY 23: ARRIVAL HOME Arrival in Marseille at 11:15 AM (tentative), then back home
DAY 24: BACK TO WORK!!!
If you’ve got any tips or great deals, we’d love to hear them. Thanks to anyone who takes the time to share their thoughts!
USA ITINERARY, DENVER/DENVER LOOP, YELLOWSTONE 2025
DAY 1: FLIGHT FROM MARSEILLE, ARRIVAL IN DENVER Arrival in Denver / pick up rental vehicle /
Estes Park, Rocky Mountain (note: a permit is required)
DAY 2: ESTES PARK / ROCKY MOUNTAIN
Rocky Mountain
DAY 3: ROCKY MOUNTAIN / CHEYENNE / FORT LARAMIE / CUSTER
Cheyenne (giant boots, The Wranglers store) Fort Laramie Custer and its Bison statues, Wyoming State Museum (free) Custer State Park
DAY 4: CUSTER, BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Crazy Horse Memorial Mount Rushmore Rapid City (Chapel in the Hills, Presidents’ statues) – hometown of Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Badlands National Park
DAY 5: BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Badlands National Park Wall Drugstore (Wall Drug)
DAY 6: WALL / SHERIDAN
Devil’s Tower (1 hour) Buffalo, quick stop Deadwood, an old gold rush town with a well-restored downtown
DAY 7: SHERIDAN / COOKE CITY
Bighorn National Forest Bighorn National Recreation Area (secret arch to find) Chief Joseph Highway, stop at Indian Summit Cody, hometown of Buffalo Bill
DAY 8: COOKE CITY / YELLOWSTONE
Roosevelt Mammoth Hot Springs Norris Basin Lake Village
DAY 9: YELLOWSTONE
Canyon Village South and North Rim Mud Volcano Lake Village
DAY 10: YELLOWSTONE
Lake Village Madison via Norris Basin, Porcelain Basin Old Faithful, Firehole, Midway Basin
DAY 11: YELLOWSTONE
Old Faithful
DAY 12: YELLOWSTONE
Old Faithful West Basin
DAY 13: YELLOWSTONE / GRAND TETON
Grand Teton via the West on Teton Park Road
DAY 14: MORAN / MANILA
Grand Teton via the East route Pilot Butte (wild horses, pronghorns) Rock Springs Red Canyon (visitor center, well-maintained loop)
DAY 15: MANILA / VERNAL
Rock Springs Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Dinosaur National Monument
DAY 16: VERNAL
Dinosaur National Monument
DAY 17: VERNAL / GRAND JUNCTION
Fantasy Canyon (2 hours) Colorado National Monument West entrance
DAY 18: GRAND JUNCTION / MONTROSE
Colorado National Monument East entrance Black Canyon of the Gunnison Crested Butte (lovely spot)
DAY 19: MONTROSE / ALAMOSA
Black Canyon of the Gunnison (3 hours) Great Sand Dunes National Park
DAY 20: ALAMOSA / COLORADO SPRINGS
Great Sand Dunes National Park Paint Mines Interpretive Park (2 hours) Garden of the Gods in downtown Colorado Springs
DAY 21: COLORADO SPRINGS / SILVERTHORNE OR DENVER
Bass Pro Shop (outdoor gear store) Outlets in Silverthorne or visit Denver
DAY 22: SILVERTHORNE OR DENVER
Wash the vehicle / fill up with gas
Flight departure at 4:30 PM (tentative)
DAY 23: ARRIVAL HOME Arrival in Marseille at 11:15 AM (tentative), then back home
DAY 24: BACK TO WORK!!!
23-Day Itinerary in the Pacific Northwest (USA) and Western Canada
Hi everyone,
We’re heading to the Pacific Northwest (USA) and Western Canada this summer. We’ve made some progress planning, but we still have a few questions.
Our trip is mostly nature-focused—hiking, wildlife spotting (ideally bears, orcas/whales, otters, etc.), mountains, forests—and a few days in cities, though we’re not big on museums.
We’re looking at flying into Seattle (cheaper than Vancouver), then renting a car and staying in Airbnbs.
A few years ago, we traveled through eastern Canada/USA (Halifax/Montréal/Boston/Halifax) and ended up driving *way* too much and switching accommodations too often. This time, we’d like to settle in a bit more.
Here’s our current plan:
- 2 nights in Seattle to avoid hitting the road right after the flight. One day for a quick city visit, then we’ll leave early after the second night. -> Heading to Olympic National Park from the south.
- 4 nights near Olympic National Park, likely around Forks. -> Then to Port Angeles and a ferry to Vancouver Island via Victoria (maybe 1 night there).
- 7 nights in Port Alberni, which seems like a central base for exploring Vancouver Island (Tofino, Pacific Rim, Cathedral Grove, etc.). We really want to enjoy the area without constantly packing and unpacking.
The issue is, that brings us to 13–14 nights, and we’d like to spend 2 in Vancouver.
We’re wondering if we should head farther north on the island and add a few more days, or reduce our stay in Port Alberni to explore the north as well.
After that, we’d have about a week left. We’re considering a detour near the Canadian Rockies, then slowly making our way back to Seattle via North Cascades National Park.
Anyway, we’d love your input on all this!
Thanks for your suggestions,
Emilie and Thomas
We’re heading to the Pacific Northwest (USA) and Western Canada this summer. We’ve made some progress planning, but we still have a few questions.
Our trip is mostly nature-focused—hiking, wildlife spotting (ideally bears, orcas/whales, otters, etc.), mountains, forests—and a few days in cities, though we’re not big on museums.
We’re looking at flying into Seattle (cheaper than Vancouver), then renting a car and staying in Airbnbs.
A few years ago, we traveled through eastern Canada/USA (Halifax/Montréal/Boston/Halifax) and ended up driving *way* too much and switching accommodations too often. This time, we’d like to settle in a bit more.
Here’s our current plan:
- 2 nights in Seattle to avoid hitting the road right after the flight. One day for a quick city visit, then we’ll leave early after the second night. -> Heading to Olympic National Park from the south.
- 4 nights near Olympic National Park, likely around Forks. -> Then to Port Angeles and a ferry to Vancouver Island via Victoria (maybe 1 night there).
- 7 nights in Port Alberni, which seems like a central base for exploring Vancouver Island (Tofino, Pacific Rim, Cathedral Grove, etc.). We really want to enjoy the area without constantly packing and unpacking.
The issue is, that brings us to 13–14 nights, and we’d like to spend 2 in Vancouver.
We’re wondering if we should head farther north on the island and add a few more days, or reduce our stay in Port Alberni to explore the north as well.
After that, we’d have about a week left. We’re considering a detour near the Canadian Rockies, then slowly making our way back to Seattle via North Cascades National Park.
Anyway, we’d love your input on all this!
Thanks for your suggestions,
Emilie and Thomas
Domestic flights and itineraries in South Africa
Hi,
We're traveling as a family with 2 kids (7 and 15 years old) in July 2025 for a road trip in South Africa. We have a round-trip ticket from Paris to Johannesburg and are considering taking 2 domestic flights: one between Johannesburg and Cape Town and another between Cape Town and Durban.
Do you know when it's best to book the tickets to get the best fares and which airline to choose? I'm currently finding tickets on Safair for 300 € for 4 between Johannesburg and Cape Town. What do you think?
Also, I have a slight hesitation. We're going for 18 days. Do you think it's better to focus on the northern part of the country, including Kruger, or is it worth visiting the Cape region as well (the kids dream of seeing whales!)?
Thanks so much for your advice. I’d really appreciate it!
Have a great evening,
Sophie
Route 66: Trip Report
Route 66 in 30 days
From Chicago to Los Angeles with a few stops at sites near the route: a total of 6,800 km. Total trip cost: 8,600 € all-inclusive—flights, car rental, gas, meals (raw veggies and fruit for lunch, fast food in the evening), hotels, and little knick-knacks picked up here and there. British Airways flights from Basel-Mulhouse Midsize car from Dollar via AutoEurope. No issues on return. Accommodations booked through Booking
First off, we met really friendly people all along the way. Most attractions are free, and you can easily walk into bars, hotels, and gas stations without buying anything—though you might get kicked out.
The original Route 66 no longer exists in its entirety. Only sections remain, and signage varies by state. Plus, the route has changed over time. But with a good map or GPS, you can figure it out. I used the CoPilot app, which lets you download all the world’s maps for a small fee—so no data issues abroad. I’d noted the GPS coordinates of places to visit during my trip prep, which came in handy.
Along the route, you’ll find old gas stations, vintage motels (some renovated, some not) with their retro signs. The most famous is Bagdad Café. There are also tons of beautiful murals and the Muffler Men.
Chicago is an amazing city. We stayed for 2 days. The best move is to pick a hotel near a Blues Line metro station—it takes you straight from the airport to your hotel, then to downtown. At the end of the trip, the metro takes you back to the airport to pick up your rental car. The 72-hour pass is super convenient. Must-sees in Chicago: John Hancock Center (skip the Tilt option—it’s a rip-off), the Chicago Riverwalk all the way to Merchandise Mart, Picasso and Calder statues, The Bean and its reflections, and don’t miss the signs marking the start/end of Route 66.
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of things that surprised or delighted us (aside from major sites like Petrified Forest): - Joliet and its prison tied to the *Blues Brothers* story - Gardner and its jail cells - Abraham Lincoln’s tomb in Springfield - Country Classic Cars in Staunton (39.03066, -89.75145): a used car lot with everything from Ford Model Ts to classic American cars. You can walk freely through the three hangars - Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (38.76062, -90.47978) - St. Louis with its Gateway Arch and City Garden (full of sculptures and free to enter) - Philipsburg and its candy factory - Springfield: Bass Pro Shop outdoor store (37.179, -93.296) - Carthage: The Precious Moments Chapel (37.113, -94.345) - Foyil: Ed Galloway’s Totem Park - Tulsa: Harley Davidson dealership (36.111, -95.885) - Oklahoma City: Stockyards City—one of the trip’s highlights. Cattle auctions are wild; plan ahead for open days/hours (35.456, -97.552) - Centennial Land Run Monument (35.461, -97.504) - Amarillo: VW Slug Bug Ranch (35.191, -101.985) - Cadillac Ranch (35.191, -101.985) - Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Bandelier - El Morro, NM - Canyon de Chelly (detour) - Little Painted Desert (35.157608, -110.47105) - Winslow: *Standin’ on the Corner* (Eagles) - Oatman and its burros - Las Vegas: two days, one spent at Valley of the Fire and Red Rock Canyon. Pick a hotel near Fremont Avenue for nightlife - Rainbow Basin Area (35.012369, -117.03858) - The Bottle Tree Ranch (34.69113, -117.34206) - The Justice Private Automotive Collection in Duarte (34.13830, -117.94591) - Los Angeles: 4 days. Start at Griffith Observatory for a city overview and the Hollywood sign. Don’t forget to see the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica. Venice is worth a visit for a more authentic vibe. Check out the Walt Disney Concert Hall and surrounding buildings for the architecture. Distances are huge. We mixed driving with the metro. Avoid the Interstates—they’re packed with traffic and frequent jams. Stick to parallel roads
From Chicago to Los Angeles with a few stops at sites near the route: a total of 6,800 km. Total trip cost: 8,600 € all-inclusive—flights, car rental, gas, meals (raw veggies and fruit for lunch, fast food in the evening), hotels, and little knick-knacks picked up here and there. British Airways flights from Basel-Mulhouse Midsize car from Dollar via AutoEurope. No issues on return. Accommodations booked through Booking
First off, we met really friendly people all along the way. Most attractions are free, and you can easily walk into bars, hotels, and gas stations without buying anything—though you might get kicked out.
The original Route 66 no longer exists in its entirety. Only sections remain, and signage varies by state. Plus, the route has changed over time. But with a good map or GPS, you can figure it out. I used the CoPilot app, which lets you download all the world’s maps for a small fee—so no data issues abroad. I’d noted the GPS coordinates of places to visit during my trip prep, which came in handy.
Along the route, you’ll find old gas stations, vintage motels (some renovated, some not) with their retro signs. The most famous is Bagdad Café. There are also tons of beautiful murals and the Muffler Men.
Chicago is an amazing city. We stayed for 2 days. The best move is to pick a hotel near a Blues Line metro station—it takes you straight from the airport to your hotel, then to downtown. At the end of the trip, the metro takes you back to the airport to pick up your rental car. The 72-hour pass is super convenient. Must-sees in Chicago: John Hancock Center (skip the Tilt option—it’s a rip-off), the Chicago Riverwalk all the way to Merchandise Mart, Picasso and Calder statues, The Bean and its reflections, and don’t miss the signs marking the start/end of Route 66.
Here’s a non-exhaustive list of things that surprised or delighted us (aside from major sites like Petrified Forest): - Joliet and its prison tied to the *Blues Brothers* story - Gardner and its jail cells - Abraham Lincoln’s tomb in Springfield - Country Classic Cars in Staunton (39.03066, -89.75145): a used car lot with everything from Ford Model Ts to classic American cars. You can walk freely through the three hangars - Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (38.76062, -90.47978) - St. Louis with its Gateway Arch and City Garden (full of sculptures and free to enter) - Philipsburg and its candy factory - Springfield: Bass Pro Shop outdoor store (37.179, -93.296) - Carthage: The Precious Moments Chapel (37.113, -94.345) - Foyil: Ed Galloway’s Totem Park - Tulsa: Harley Davidson dealership (36.111, -95.885) - Oklahoma City: Stockyards City—one of the trip’s highlights. Cattle auctions are wild; plan ahead for open days/hours (35.456, -97.552) - Centennial Land Run Monument (35.461, -97.504) - Amarillo: VW Slug Bug Ranch (35.191, -101.985) - Cadillac Ranch (35.191, -101.985) - Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Bandelier - El Morro, NM - Canyon de Chelly (detour) - Little Painted Desert (35.157608, -110.47105) - Winslow: *Standin’ on the Corner* (Eagles) - Oatman and its burros - Las Vegas: two days, one spent at Valley of the Fire and Red Rock Canyon. Pick a hotel near Fremont Avenue for nightlife - Rainbow Basin Area (35.012369, -117.03858) - The Bottle Tree Ranch (34.69113, -117.34206) - The Justice Private Automotive Collection in Duarte (34.13830, -117.94591) - Los Angeles: 4 days. Start at Griffith Observatory for a city overview and the Hollywood sign. Don’t forget to see the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica. Venice is worth a visit for a more authentic vibe. Check out the Walt Disney Concert Hall and surrounding buildings for the architecture. Distances are huge. We mixed driving with the metro. Avoid the Interstates—they’re packed with traffic and frequent jams. Stick to parallel roads
Une semaine au départ de San Francisco English translation pending
Bonjour , nous somme une famille de 4 : parents et 2 enfants de 13 et 9 ans. Théoriquement nous irons à San Francisco fin avril. Nous avons avons de la famille sur place ( les enfants sont plus jeunes). Premier séjour aux États-Unis. Pour cause professionnelle la durée sur place est limitée.
les vols sont achetés aux horaires qui nous conviennent:
arrivée à SF dimanche 13h35 , départ le mardi 23h00. Après un road trip Nous souhaitons être de retour à SF le samedi soir: visites avec les 2 familles le dimanche, puis entre nous le lundi et mardi
j'envisage cet esquisse de programme:
dimanche soir :nuit à Midpines
Lundi visite de Yosemite park , nuit à Fresno
mardi visite de Sequoia park nuit à Three Rivers
mercredi route et visite de Trona Pinnacles nuit à Ridgecrest
jeudi visite Death Valley Furnace Creek nuit à Las Végas
pour le vendredi : le Grand Canyon donne vraiment envie d''être visité , nuit au Grand Canyon?
samedi retour vers Las Vegas puis vol vers SF en fin d’après-midi ( je ne prends pas le risque de réserver ce vol plusieurs semaines à l'avance) ou route toute la journée vers SF.
votre avis trop chargé , je supprime soit Death Valley , soit le Grand Canyon , les 2 ?
j'ai regardé pour arriver directement à Las Vegas plutôt que San Francisco le premier jour mais il faut ajouté presque 600€ ( j'ai eu les 4 aller-retour Paris SF à 1240€). Si le premier jour je vais à LV en avion en partant de SF quelle marge prendre entre le départ du 2eme vol et l'arrivée du premier? Pour les hébergements j'essaie de trouver sur hotel.com car j'ai un programme fidélité lors de mes déplacements pro. Merci pour vos conseils William
j'ai regardé pour arriver directement à Las Vegas plutôt que San Francisco le premier jour mais il faut ajouté presque 600€ ( j'ai eu les 4 aller-retour Paris SF à 1240€). Si le premier jour je vais à LV en avion en partant de SF quelle marge prendre entre le départ du 2eme vol et l'arrivée du premier? Pour les hébergements j'essaie de trouver sur hotel.com car j'ai un programme fidélité lors de mes déplacements pro. Merci pour vos conseils William
Comment organiser son voyage dans l'Ouest américain quand on est "débutant"? English translation pending
Bonjour,
Je me présente je m'appelle Florence, j'ai 25 ans, et depuis toujours je rêve de partir aux États Unis. Nous allons donc réaliser mon rêve avec mon compagnon, si tout se passe bien, d'ici 2 ans.
Jusqu'ici, je projetais d'utiliser un site spécialisé comme Marco Vasco, pour cela j'avais calculer une moyenne de 5000 € par personne (pour absolument tout, les trajets, location de véhicule, activités, restaurants, et cadeaux). Pour deux nous disposons donc de 10.000 €, pour 17 jours sur la côte Ouest. On m'a dit que cela faisait beaucoup et que nous pouvions nous en sortir pour moins cher si l'on faisait notre propre organisation à nous.
Seulement voilà, je ne suis jamais sortie de la France, mon chéri si mais très peu.
Donc, on se demande comment organiser notre voyage de A à Z.
J'aurai donc de multiples questions et si quelqu'un aurait la gentillesse de m'aider ce serait superbe !
Déjà, j'ai un gros livre le routard sur les Etats Unis, j’attends de finir de le lire pour noter ce que nous souhaitons à tout prix voir ou visiter avant de tracer un itinéraire.
Dans la formule que je devais choisir à la base, nous devions faire Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco. Entre cela il y avait le Grand Canyon, Death Valley, la route 66, les casinos, etc....Pour vous donner une idée 🙂
Donc voici les questions que je me pose, déjà, que faut t'il réserver en premier (hôtels, avion ?) et combien de temps à l'avance ? Pour la location de la voiture, comment cela fonctionne t'il ? Car je sais que dans notre formule, nous avions une voiture que l'on prenait à Los Angeles, et que l'on rendait à San Francisco. Mais une réservation de nous même, je ne sais pas du tout comment ça se passe 🤪
Le mieux est t'il de louer un camping car ou une voiture et des hôtels à côté ?
Ya t'il des choses importantes à savoir ? Je sais déjà qu'il faut remplir le formulaire ESTA, donner un pourboire à chaque repas, mais j'imagine qu'il y a encore plein d'autres choses à savoir.
Donc tout vos conseils, je prend !
En vous remerciant 🙂
Je me présente je m'appelle Florence, j'ai 25 ans, et depuis toujours je rêve de partir aux États Unis. Nous allons donc réaliser mon rêve avec mon compagnon, si tout se passe bien, d'ici 2 ans.
Jusqu'ici, je projetais d'utiliser un site spécialisé comme Marco Vasco, pour cela j'avais calculer une moyenne de 5000 € par personne (pour absolument tout, les trajets, location de véhicule, activités, restaurants, et cadeaux). Pour deux nous disposons donc de 10.000 €, pour 17 jours sur la côte Ouest. On m'a dit que cela faisait beaucoup et que nous pouvions nous en sortir pour moins cher si l'on faisait notre propre organisation à nous.
Seulement voilà, je ne suis jamais sortie de la France, mon chéri si mais très peu.
Donc, on se demande comment organiser notre voyage de A à Z.
J'aurai donc de multiples questions et si quelqu'un aurait la gentillesse de m'aider ce serait superbe !
Déjà, j'ai un gros livre le routard sur les Etats Unis, j’attends de finir de le lire pour noter ce que nous souhaitons à tout prix voir ou visiter avant de tracer un itinéraire.
Dans la formule que je devais choisir à la base, nous devions faire Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco. Entre cela il y avait le Grand Canyon, Death Valley, la route 66, les casinos, etc....Pour vous donner une idée 🙂
Donc voici les questions que je me pose, déjà, que faut t'il réserver en premier (hôtels, avion ?) et combien de temps à l'avance ? Pour la location de la voiture, comment cela fonctionne t'il ? Car je sais que dans notre formule, nous avions une voiture que l'on prenait à Los Angeles, et que l'on rendait à San Francisco. Mais une réservation de nous même, je ne sais pas du tout comment ça se passe 🤪
Le mieux est t'il de louer un camping car ou une voiture et des hôtels à côté ?
Ya t'il des choses importantes à savoir ? Je sais déjà qu'il faut remplir le formulaire ESTA, donner un pourboire à chaque repas, mais j'imagine qu'il y a encore plein d'autres choses à savoir.
Donc tout vos conseils, je prend !
En vous remerciant 🙂
Boucle Denver-Denver pour l'été 2021 English translation pending
Bonjour à tous
Après avoir du renoncer à notre projet 2020 dans l’ouest américain suite à l’annulation des vols de fin juin et avec l’actualité actuelle non propice aux voyages ( bon, nous avons quand même pu partir 10 jours dans les Cyclades en plan B) j’envisage, si la situation s’améliore, un nouveau projet pour l’été 2021 avec un départ mi juillet ( au lieu de notre préféré fin juin..).. on va essayer d'y croire!!
Cela donnerait ceci : une boucle Denver pour limiter les frais de location de voiture en faisant un oneway.
Itinéraire prévu, sans les détails.. toute la 1ere partie jusqu'à yellowstone devait se faire en 2020..😕
Samedi Jour 1 : Arrivée Denver. Nuit à Fort Collins Dimanche Jour 2 : Cheyenne–Custer - Nuit à Custer Lundi Jour 3 : Mont Rushmore- Badlands National Park – Nuit à Rapid City Mardi Jour 4 : Rapid City – Deadwood – Devils Tower - Buffalo (3h) – nuit à Buffalo ou Sheridan Mercredi Jour 5 : Buffalo à Cody par Bighorn canyon - Nuit à Cody ( 3h30) Jeudi Jour 6 : route vers Gardiner via Chief Joseph scenic highway et rock creek vista. Nuit à Gardiner Vendredi Jour 7 : Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone Samedi Jour 8:Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone Dimanche Jour 9 : Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone Lundi Jour 10: Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone mardi Jour 11 : Grand Teton – Nuit à Grand Teton ou Jackson Hole (1h30) Mercredi Jour 12 : randonnée le matin vers Grand Teton puis route vers Salt Lake City (5h) Jeudi Jour 13 : route vers Moab (4h) - fin de journée à Dead Horse State Park- Nuit à Moab Vendredi Jour 14 :Moab - Arches NP– Nuit à Moab Samedi Jour 15 : Moab – Canyonlands NP- Nuit à Moab Dimanche Jour 16: matin Moab ( fin de visite- ou activité) – puis route vers Colorado National Monument. (2h15) via la 128– Nuit à Grand Junction Lundi Jour 17 : :Glenwood Springs – Idaho Springs (3h30) (après midi Shopping) - Nuit à Denver Mardi jour 18 : journée Denver. Vol en fin de journée Mercredi jour 19 retour Maison
Pour info, nous connaissons déjà le principal de la partie Moab pour l’avoir fait en avril 2016. Je peux éventuellement ajouter 1 ou 2 jours.
Qu’en pensez vous ? Pur l’instant, j’ai l’impression que les tarifs hôteliers sont pus chers ??
Merci pour vos avis Prenez soin de vous Marie
Après avoir du renoncer à notre projet 2020 dans l’ouest américain suite à l’annulation des vols de fin juin et avec l’actualité actuelle non propice aux voyages ( bon, nous avons quand même pu partir 10 jours dans les Cyclades en plan B) j’envisage, si la situation s’améliore, un nouveau projet pour l’été 2021 avec un départ mi juillet ( au lieu de notre préféré fin juin..).. on va essayer d'y croire!!
Cela donnerait ceci : une boucle Denver pour limiter les frais de location de voiture en faisant un oneway.
Itinéraire prévu, sans les détails.. toute la 1ere partie jusqu'à yellowstone devait se faire en 2020..😕
Samedi Jour 1 : Arrivée Denver. Nuit à Fort Collins Dimanche Jour 2 : Cheyenne–Custer - Nuit à Custer Lundi Jour 3 : Mont Rushmore- Badlands National Park – Nuit à Rapid City Mardi Jour 4 : Rapid City – Deadwood – Devils Tower - Buffalo (3h) – nuit à Buffalo ou Sheridan Mercredi Jour 5 : Buffalo à Cody par Bighorn canyon - Nuit à Cody ( 3h30) Jeudi Jour 6 : route vers Gardiner via Chief Joseph scenic highway et rock creek vista. Nuit à Gardiner Vendredi Jour 7 : Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone Samedi Jour 8:Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone Dimanche Jour 9 : Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone Lundi Jour 10: Yellowstone – Nuit à Yellowstone mardi Jour 11 : Grand Teton – Nuit à Grand Teton ou Jackson Hole (1h30) Mercredi Jour 12 : randonnée le matin vers Grand Teton puis route vers Salt Lake City (5h) Jeudi Jour 13 : route vers Moab (4h) - fin de journée à Dead Horse State Park- Nuit à Moab Vendredi Jour 14 :Moab - Arches NP– Nuit à Moab Samedi Jour 15 : Moab – Canyonlands NP- Nuit à Moab Dimanche Jour 16: matin Moab ( fin de visite- ou activité) – puis route vers Colorado National Monument. (2h15) via la 128– Nuit à Grand Junction Lundi Jour 17 : :Glenwood Springs – Idaho Springs (3h30) (après midi Shopping) - Nuit à Denver Mardi jour 18 : journée Denver. Vol en fin de journée Mercredi jour 19 retour Maison
Pour info, nous connaissons déjà le principal de la partie Moab pour l’avoir fait en avril 2016. Je peux éventuellement ajouter 1 ou 2 jours.
Qu’en pensez vous ? Pur l’instant, j’ai l’impression que les tarifs hôteliers sont pus chers ??
Merci pour vos avis Prenez soin de vous Marie
Concours photo de juillet 2020: Verticale(s) English translation pending
Bonjour 🙂
Après déjà dix ans depuis la première édition, nous voici au lancement du 120ème concours.
J’aime l'idée de garder la surprise des photos qui pourront être proposées, c’est pourquoi j’ai choisi un thème ouvert : Verticale(s). Il n’y aura pas de contrôle au fil à plomb, ça pourra pencher un peu mais raisonnablement. Pour accompagner le démarrage du concours, vous trouverez quelques pistes en bas de ce message.
Vous pourrez participer jusqu’au samedi 25 juillet à 23h59, heure de Paris. Chaque participant est autorisé à poster jusqu’à trois photos, numérotées de 1 à 3, en précisant le lieu de prise de vue. N’hésitez pas à accompagner vos photos de quelques lignes.
Le vote aura lieu du dimanche 26 juillet 0h01 au jeudi 30 juillet à 22h. Il est accessible à tous, participants ou non, dans la limite d’un vote, et se fera par l’attribution d’un total de six points répartis sur 3 ou 4 photos : Photo n°1 : 3 points Photo n°2 : 2 points Photo n°3 : 1 point - OU - Photo n°3A et photo n°3B : 1/2 point chacune
La photo gagnante sera celle qui aura remporté le plus de points. En cas d’égalité pour la première position, les photos seront départagées par le nombre de votes à 3 points, puis , si l'égalité persiste, par le nombre de votes à 2 points, etc.
Le ou la gagnant(e) aura le privilège d’organiser le concours suivant.
Ce fil est réservé aux photos participantes et aux votes. Pour le blabla ça se passe ici ! Le diaporama arrivera dans quelques jours et figurera dans ma signature.
C’est parti 🙂
Après déjà dix ans depuis la première édition, nous voici au lancement du 120ème concours.
J’aime l'idée de garder la surprise des photos qui pourront être proposées, c’est pourquoi j’ai choisi un thème ouvert : Verticale(s). Il n’y aura pas de contrôle au fil à plomb, ça pourra pencher un peu mais raisonnablement. Pour accompagner le démarrage du concours, vous trouverez quelques pistes en bas de ce message.
Vous pourrez participer jusqu’au samedi 25 juillet à 23h59, heure de Paris. Chaque participant est autorisé à poster jusqu’à trois photos, numérotées de 1 à 3, en précisant le lieu de prise de vue. N’hésitez pas à accompagner vos photos de quelques lignes.
Le vote aura lieu du dimanche 26 juillet 0h01 au jeudi 30 juillet à 22h. Il est accessible à tous, participants ou non, dans la limite d’un vote, et se fera par l’attribution d’un total de six points répartis sur 3 ou 4 photos : Photo n°1 : 3 points Photo n°2 : 2 points Photo n°3 : 1 point - OU - Photo n°3A et photo n°3B : 1/2 point chacune
La photo gagnante sera celle qui aura remporté le plus de points. En cas d’égalité pour la première position, les photos seront départagées par le nombre de votes à 3 points, puis , si l'égalité persiste, par le nombre de votes à 2 points, etc.
Le ou la gagnant(e) aura le privilège d’organiser le concours suivant.
Ce fil est réservé aux photos participantes et aux votes. Pour le blabla ça se passe ici ! Le diaporama arrivera dans quelques jours et figurera dans ma signature.
C’est parti 🙂
Oman entre montagne, désert et wadis English translation pending
Voyage organisé d’1 semaine en 4x4 et bivouacs
Samedi 26 janvier 2019 : Grosse frayeur avant de partir, dû fait du visa. Le site officiel pour obtenir ce foutu visa n’est pas super top. Il fallait indiquer tous nos prénoms. Comme mon troisième prénom est Robert, j’avais inscrit R, comme sur ma carte d’identité. J’avais envoyé la demande 3 semaines avant de partir. Au bout de 3 jours, j’ai reçu une réponse automatique « no valid » sans préciser le pourquoi. Après 3 mails de demande de renseignements, je me suis rendu au consulat qui ne comprenait pas pourquoi ils me l’avaient refusé, mais ne pouvait pas intervenir.
Seul un coup de fil à la police douanière Omanaise a pu m’aider. Encore fallait ils pouvoir les joindre à des heures acceptables, cad localement entre 8 et 9h du matin d’après le consulat, sinon ils ne décrocheraient pas. Ok mais avec le décalage horaire ça fait entre 5 et 6h du mat. Sachant aussi qu’entre le vendredi midi et dimanche c’est off pour les administrations. On est à 4 jours du départ. Le mercredi essai mais aucune réponse. Idem le jeudi. Ca commence à me stresser. Et miracle le vendredi, soit la veille du départ j’ai enfin un interlocuteur. Je ne comprend qu’à moitié son Anglais. Il me dit que la photo est ok mais après des minutes interminables, on tombe sur l’erreur. Je dois réenvoyer une demande sur le site. Ouf j’ai pu obtenir le visa à 11h, à 1h de la deadline…
Départ de Bruxelles à 12.30 vers Mascate avec transit par Istanbul. Arrivée à 1h du matin à Mascate. Passage de 0° à Bruxelles à 20 degrés en pleine nuit ici. notre guide nous attend ainsi que les autres membres du groupe. On sera 10 au total, répartis dans 3 4x4. Direction l’hotel pour un dodo bien mérité
Ci-dessous le circuit: 1:Mascate- Wadi Bani Awf 2:Wadi bani Awf- Djebel Shams 3:djebel Shams- Nizwa 4:Nizwa- Wahiba desert 5:Wahiba desert- Wadi bani khaled 6:Wadi bani khaled- wadi shaab 7:Wadi shaab- Mascate
Samedi 26 janvier 2019 : Grosse frayeur avant de partir, dû fait du visa. Le site officiel pour obtenir ce foutu visa n’est pas super top. Il fallait indiquer tous nos prénoms. Comme mon troisième prénom est Robert, j’avais inscrit R, comme sur ma carte d’identité. J’avais envoyé la demande 3 semaines avant de partir. Au bout de 3 jours, j’ai reçu une réponse automatique « no valid » sans préciser le pourquoi. Après 3 mails de demande de renseignements, je me suis rendu au consulat qui ne comprenait pas pourquoi ils me l’avaient refusé, mais ne pouvait pas intervenir.
Seul un coup de fil à la police douanière Omanaise a pu m’aider. Encore fallait ils pouvoir les joindre à des heures acceptables, cad localement entre 8 et 9h du matin d’après le consulat, sinon ils ne décrocheraient pas. Ok mais avec le décalage horaire ça fait entre 5 et 6h du mat. Sachant aussi qu’entre le vendredi midi et dimanche c’est off pour les administrations. On est à 4 jours du départ. Le mercredi essai mais aucune réponse. Idem le jeudi. Ca commence à me stresser. Et miracle le vendredi, soit la veille du départ j’ai enfin un interlocuteur. Je ne comprend qu’à moitié son Anglais. Il me dit que la photo est ok mais après des minutes interminables, on tombe sur l’erreur. Je dois réenvoyer une demande sur le site. Ouf j’ai pu obtenir le visa à 11h, à 1h de la deadline…
Départ de Bruxelles à 12.30 vers Mascate avec transit par Istanbul. Arrivée à 1h du matin à Mascate. Passage de 0° à Bruxelles à 20 degrés en pleine nuit ici. notre guide nous attend ainsi que les autres membres du groupe. On sera 10 au total, répartis dans 3 4x4. Direction l’hotel pour un dodo bien mérité
Ci-dessous le circuit: 1:Mascate- Wadi Bani Awf 2:Wadi bani Awf- Djebel Shams 3:djebel Shams- Nizwa 4:Nizwa- Wahiba desert 5:Wahiba desert- Wadi bani khaled 6:Wadi bani khaled- wadi shaab 7:Wadi shaab- Mascate
Questions pour un road trip au Colorado English translation pending
Bonsoir 🙂
Je suis arrivée à J 7 de ma préparation pour notre Road trip de septembre .J’ai quelques questions pour lesquelles je n’ai pas pu obtenir d’infos ( aïe aïe aïe mon anglais !!) Je vous les soumets pour avoir votre avis
Guffey : j’ai cru comprendre que la Rocky Mountain Wildlife foundation était fermée (loups )et est ce que les gorges de Paradise Cove valent l’arrêt ?
Twin Lakes : aller vers le Nord pour les voir nous fera faire un détour d’environ de 80 km. Est ce que ça vaut le détour sachant qu’on ne pourra pas aller jusqu’à Indépendance pass car après nous dormons à Salida (au Sud) . Est qu’il y a une petite marche à faire sur place ou c’est uniquement pour des photos ?
Saint Elmo : qui a fait les Agnes Vaille Falls ?
Great Sand Dune Overlook : facile ou non et combien de temps
Creede : Bachelor Loop : combien de temps pour faire la boucle ? Piste roulante ou 4x4 recommandé ( nous aurons un SUV) ?
Après notre étape de Lake City nous dormons à Ouray. Lors de ma préparation j’avais prévu de passer par les US 20 et 24. En se penchant sur l’ititinéraire il me semble bien que ce sont des routes très techniques que seuls les 4x4 peuvent emprunter 😕 et il va falloir rejoindre Ouray par le nord et le Curecanti ( Sapinero, Montrose ) avant de redescendre
Pouvez vous me le confirmer ?
Bon, c’est tout pour aujourd’hui !! Merci à ceux qui me répondront
Marcalamar 🙂
Ouest américain (voiture puis RV) juillet 2021 English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
Nous envisageons un voyage en famille (3 "enfants" : 20, 18 et 14 ans) dans l'ouest des USA pour l'été 2021. Nous pourrions y consacrer entre 3 et 4 semaines.
Nous tenons à faire une partie du voyage en RV pour découvrir cette manière différente de voyager. J'ai lu et relu les (dés)avantages généraux. Par contre, si un point particulier retient l'attention d'un RViste, je suis très intéressée. Je pense à des infos du genre : à monument valley, il faut prévoir un "tour" car le RV ne passe pas.
J'aimerais d'abord vous soumettre le trajet actuellement à l'étude :
- Arrivée à SanFrancisco - Visite SF (possible à pieds et à vélos, semble-t-il)
Location de la voiture - Monterey (incontournable pour le grand, fan des fonds marins)
- Yosemite (j'aimerais faire aussi Sequoia. Sensé de faire les deux ? Possible de satisfaire ma soif de géants ailleurs sur le trajet ?)
- (Bodies ?) : la plus jeune voudrait voir plein de villes fantôme... mais j'ai peur que ça n'en veille pas les km
- Vallée de la mort - (Rhyolite) - Vegas (un rapide passage)
Remise de la voiture (selon google : 1326km) , location du RV - Zion - Bryce - Arches/Moab - Mesa verde - Monument valley - Antelope - (Powell Lake) - Grand Canyon - Meteor Crater excentré mais intrigant pour nous, curieux de l'espace.
- traverser Mojave (et Calico ?) ou Joshua tree (et Pioneertown ?) - Los Angeles Remise du RV (google annonce 2826km) et retour dans nos pénates, des étoiles plein les yeux.
J'espère que ma demande n'est pas trop vague mais c'est tout ce que j'ai en ce moment. J'éprouve le besoin, pour ce premier grand voyage organisé par mes soins et avant de pousser plus avant, de vérifier si le projet tient la route.Merci de m'avoir lue. Waha
Nous envisageons un voyage en famille (3 "enfants" : 20, 18 et 14 ans) dans l'ouest des USA pour l'été 2021. Nous pourrions y consacrer entre 3 et 4 semaines.
Nous tenons à faire une partie du voyage en RV pour découvrir cette manière différente de voyager. J'ai lu et relu les (dés)avantages généraux. Par contre, si un point particulier retient l'attention d'un RViste, je suis très intéressée. Je pense à des infos du genre : à monument valley, il faut prévoir un "tour" car le RV ne passe pas.
J'aimerais d'abord vous soumettre le trajet actuellement à l'étude :
- Arrivée à SanFrancisco - Visite SF (possible à pieds et à vélos, semble-t-il)
Location de la voiture - Monterey (incontournable pour le grand, fan des fonds marins)
- Yosemite (j'aimerais faire aussi Sequoia. Sensé de faire les deux ? Possible de satisfaire ma soif de géants ailleurs sur le trajet ?)
- (Bodies ?) : la plus jeune voudrait voir plein de villes fantôme... mais j'ai peur que ça n'en veille pas les km
- Vallée de la mort - (Rhyolite) - Vegas (un rapide passage)
Remise de la voiture (selon google : 1326km) , location du RV - Zion - Bryce - Arches/Moab - Mesa verde - Monument valley - Antelope - (Powell Lake) - Grand Canyon - Meteor Crater excentré mais intrigant pour nous, curieux de l'espace.
- traverser Mojave (et Calico ?) ou Joshua tree (et Pioneertown ?) - Los Angeles Remise du RV (google annonce 2826km) et retour dans nos pénates, des étoiles plein les yeux.
J'espère que ma demande n'est pas trop vague mais c'est tout ce que j'ai en ce moment. J'éprouve le besoin, pour ce premier grand voyage organisé par mes soins et avant de pousser plus avant, de vérifier si le projet tient la route.Merci de m'avoir lue. Waha
Quel trajet de Durango à Moab? English translation pending
Bonjour, pouvez-vous me donner vos points de vue sur le trajet de Durango à Moab?
J'hésite entre 2 trajets:
- Passer par Mesa Verde, Cortez, Monticello (pour randonnée dans les Needles). Donc pour voir Silverton, ce serait un aller-retour au départ de Durango. Avec cette option, j'ai des questions: que faire aux alentours de Silverton hormis la ville elle-même? Dans la journée est-ce pertinent de pousser plus loin que Silverton sachant qu'il faudrait retourner à Durango le soir? Ou serait-il judicieux de dormir à Silverton avant de revenir à Durango? Je ne tiens pas à prendre le train à vapeur car le trajet, même avec aller simple, est bien trop long. Est-ce que le trajet en voiture permet de voir les mêmes paysages?
- Passer par Silverton et Ouray. Mesa Verde serait visité lors d'un aller-retour au départ de Durango. Je ne vois pas les Needles dans ce cas-là (j'ai déjà fait une "visite" express de Canyonlands lors d'un précédent séjour à Moab et manquer Needles cette fois me fait de la peine).
Merci. Je suis ouvert à toutes les idées auxquelles je ne pense pas.
J'hésite entre 2 trajets:
- Passer par Mesa Verde, Cortez, Monticello (pour randonnée dans les Needles). Donc pour voir Silverton, ce serait un aller-retour au départ de Durango. Avec cette option, j'ai des questions: que faire aux alentours de Silverton hormis la ville elle-même? Dans la journée est-ce pertinent de pousser plus loin que Silverton sachant qu'il faudrait retourner à Durango le soir? Ou serait-il judicieux de dormir à Silverton avant de revenir à Durango? Je ne tiens pas à prendre le train à vapeur car le trajet, même avec aller simple, est bien trop long. Est-ce que le trajet en voiture permet de voir les mêmes paysages?
- Passer par Silverton et Ouray. Mesa Verde serait visité lors d'un aller-retour au départ de Durango. Je ne vois pas les Needles dans ce cas-là (j'ai déjà fait une "visite" express de Canyonlands lors d'un précédent séjour à Moab et manquer Needles cette fois me fait de la peine).
Merci. Je suis ouvert à toutes les idées auxquelles je ne pense pas.
Réouverture progressive des parcs nord-américains English translation pending
Les États-Unis et le Canada ont entamé une réouverture partielle et progressive de leurs parcs et réserves naturelles.
Lire la suite...
Votre avis sur futur road trip dans l'Ouest américain en famille avec ado English translation pending
Bonjour à tous,
Tout d'abord merci à ceux qui prendront le temps de lire ce long message (désolée) et pourront m'apporter leurs conseils avisés.
Je prépare "the" voyage de ma vie auquel je rêve depuis un certain temps maintenant et qui commence à se préciser : circuit dans l'ouest américain. Voyage que nous souhaitons partager avec nos enfants qui auront alors 22, 18 et 15 ans. Juillet 2021 ou 2022. J'essaye donc de concilier nos envies (surtout les miennes 😉) en tenant compte que certains de mes enfants ne voudront probablement pas passer trop de temps sur la route ou dans les parcs nationaux et que je souhaite voir néanmoins un maximum de choses et endroits différents. Pour information, nous n'avons jamais fait de grand voyage, juste un petit voyage avec mon mari il y a quelques années à new york. Nous ne sommes pas très sportifs et aventuriers mais j'ai envie de me lancer et j'emmènerai toute ma tribu avec moi.
Voilà le programme envisagé, merci de votre avis en fonction de vos connaissances sur le sujet, vos conseils sur des lieux que je pourrai supprimer pour en voir d'autres plus intéressants ou en intégrer d'autres... des endroits atypiques pour y dormir que je n'ai pas forcément trouvé près de nos lieux de passage ... merci par avance.
J 1 et 2 : LOS ANGELES (2 nuits) - récupération voiture de location (suv) à l'aéroport - 2 nuits sur sunset boulevard (sunset trip) - visites : panneau hollywood, griffIth parc et l'observatoire, hollywood boulevard, walf of fame, chinese theater - le reste (en fin de séjour) J 3 : LOS ANGELES -> KINGMAN via la route 66 550 km (6 heures de route) - arrêt à calico ghost town pour déjeuner au calico house restaurant si possible - passage bagdad cafe - Oatman en milieu d'après-midi avec gouter ou un verre à oatman hotel - cool spring station - sitgreaves pass - arrivée pour la soirée et nuit à kingman J 4 : KINGMAN -> GRAND CANYON 300 kms 3h30 de route - hackberry - seligman - Williams pour le déjeuner - Tusayan pour vol helicoptere du grand canyon en fin d'après-midi - nuit à grand canyon village J5 : grand canyon -> monument valley 280 kms - 3h30 de route - le matin : balade et pique nique le midi au grand canyon (south rim trail) - départ l'après-midi :vers monument valleyr via la desert view drive - nuit à monument valley J6 : monument valley -> page (2 nuits) 200 kms - 2h30 de route - matin : piste monument valley en voiture - puis départ vers page J7 : PAGE pas de route - visite antelope canyon le matin (upper vers 11h) : votre avis sur lower et upper car j'ai vraiment un doute (lower est-il plus beau que upper ? néanmoins, les commentaires et la foule sur lower ne m'attire pas mais je voudrais visiter le plus beau des 2 ?) - après-midi repos au lac powell avec location bateau - soirée : horseshoe bend (peut-on y pique niquer ?) J8 : Page -> Bryce canyon 240 kms - 2h35 de route - the wave : pas possible pour nous car nous ne sommes pas sportifs ? votre avis (+ tirage au sort) - visite de kanab - bryce canyon l'après-midi (queen garden trail) - nuit à bryce canyon city avec spectacle en soirée de rodéo J9 : Bryce canyon -> Las vegas (2 nuits) 400 kms - 4h30 de route - passage via zion park, je n'ai pas prévu d'arrêt long car je pense que les jeunes en auront marre et seront pressés d'arriver à las vegas, par ailleurs, une fois encore, nous ne sommes pas de grands aventuriers et sportifs dans la famille ??? votre avis - nuit à las vegas sur le strip J10 : visite las vegas (pas de route) - las vegas sign - boutique M et M's - shopping à the venitian - stratosphere tower - pawn star soirées : fontaines du bellagio, mirage volcano, fremont street et éventuelleent mini golf kiss by monster au rio hotel J 11 : las vegas -> los angeles (santa monica) pour 3 ou 4 nuits 480 kms 4h30 ou 6h30 de route - nelson ghost town pour photos (mais rallonge la route de 2h, votre avis ???) - arrêt à Baker pour le déjeuner avec passage au alien fresh jerky - barstow outlet : pour les jeunes 😕 - arrivée et nuit à santa monica en soirée pour repos fin de séjour J12 à 15 : santa monica LOS ANGELES - rodeo drive et beverly hills si non fait au départ du séjour - studios universal - mulholland drive - venice canals et beach bordwalk (en journée) - balade highway 1 jusqu'à malibu (el matador state beach) - soirées à santa monica
merci à vous
Tout d'abord merci à ceux qui prendront le temps de lire ce long message (désolée) et pourront m'apporter leurs conseils avisés.
Je prépare "the" voyage de ma vie auquel je rêve depuis un certain temps maintenant et qui commence à se préciser : circuit dans l'ouest américain. Voyage que nous souhaitons partager avec nos enfants qui auront alors 22, 18 et 15 ans. Juillet 2021 ou 2022. J'essaye donc de concilier nos envies (surtout les miennes 😉) en tenant compte que certains de mes enfants ne voudront probablement pas passer trop de temps sur la route ou dans les parcs nationaux et que je souhaite voir néanmoins un maximum de choses et endroits différents. Pour information, nous n'avons jamais fait de grand voyage, juste un petit voyage avec mon mari il y a quelques années à new york. Nous ne sommes pas très sportifs et aventuriers mais j'ai envie de me lancer et j'emmènerai toute ma tribu avec moi.
Voilà le programme envisagé, merci de votre avis en fonction de vos connaissances sur le sujet, vos conseils sur des lieux que je pourrai supprimer pour en voir d'autres plus intéressants ou en intégrer d'autres... des endroits atypiques pour y dormir que je n'ai pas forcément trouvé près de nos lieux de passage ... merci par avance.
J 1 et 2 : LOS ANGELES (2 nuits) - récupération voiture de location (suv) à l'aéroport - 2 nuits sur sunset boulevard (sunset trip) - visites : panneau hollywood, griffIth parc et l'observatoire, hollywood boulevard, walf of fame, chinese theater - le reste (en fin de séjour) J 3 : LOS ANGELES -> KINGMAN via la route 66 550 km (6 heures de route) - arrêt à calico ghost town pour déjeuner au calico house restaurant si possible - passage bagdad cafe - Oatman en milieu d'après-midi avec gouter ou un verre à oatman hotel - cool spring station - sitgreaves pass - arrivée pour la soirée et nuit à kingman J 4 : KINGMAN -> GRAND CANYON 300 kms 3h30 de route - hackberry - seligman - Williams pour le déjeuner - Tusayan pour vol helicoptere du grand canyon en fin d'après-midi - nuit à grand canyon village J5 : grand canyon -> monument valley 280 kms - 3h30 de route - le matin : balade et pique nique le midi au grand canyon (south rim trail) - départ l'après-midi :vers monument valleyr via la desert view drive - nuit à monument valley J6 : monument valley -> page (2 nuits) 200 kms - 2h30 de route - matin : piste monument valley en voiture - puis départ vers page J7 : PAGE pas de route - visite antelope canyon le matin (upper vers 11h) : votre avis sur lower et upper car j'ai vraiment un doute (lower est-il plus beau que upper ? néanmoins, les commentaires et la foule sur lower ne m'attire pas mais je voudrais visiter le plus beau des 2 ?) - après-midi repos au lac powell avec location bateau - soirée : horseshoe bend (peut-on y pique niquer ?) J8 : Page -> Bryce canyon 240 kms - 2h35 de route - the wave : pas possible pour nous car nous ne sommes pas sportifs ? votre avis (+ tirage au sort) - visite de kanab - bryce canyon l'après-midi (queen garden trail) - nuit à bryce canyon city avec spectacle en soirée de rodéo J9 : Bryce canyon -> Las vegas (2 nuits) 400 kms - 4h30 de route - passage via zion park, je n'ai pas prévu d'arrêt long car je pense que les jeunes en auront marre et seront pressés d'arriver à las vegas, par ailleurs, une fois encore, nous ne sommes pas de grands aventuriers et sportifs dans la famille ??? votre avis - nuit à las vegas sur le strip J10 : visite las vegas (pas de route) - las vegas sign - boutique M et M's - shopping à the venitian - stratosphere tower - pawn star soirées : fontaines du bellagio, mirage volcano, fremont street et éventuelleent mini golf kiss by monster au rio hotel J 11 : las vegas -> los angeles (santa monica) pour 3 ou 4 nuits 480 kms 4h30 ou 6h30 de route - nelson ghost town pour photos (mais rallonge la route de 2h, votre avis ???) - arrêt à Baker pour le déjeuner avec passage au alien fresh jerky - barstow outlet : pour les jeunes 😕 - arrivée et nuit à santa monica en soirée pour repos fin de séjour J12 à 15 : santa monica LOS ANGELES - rodeo drive et beverly hills si non fait au départ du séjour - studios universal - mulholland drive - venice canals et beach bordwalk (en journée) - balade highway 1 jusqu'à malibu (el matador state beach) - soirées à santa monica
merci à vous