Blog Archives

Lake Tahoe: Fishing and Gambling

8/23/2013

When you ask some men what their idea of a dream vacation or theme trip idea is, fishing and gambling seem to soar to the top. So, how about putting them together for a weekend get- away or bachelor-party idea. Lake Tahoe is a great spot to consider for both. Flying in is not as easy as you have to fly into Reno and then drive to Lake Tahoe, which is a little under an hour depending on weather and traffic, but it is a gorgeous drive and the highlight is when you peak over the mountain and see the crystal-clear blue waters of the lake.

Lake Tahoe is known for the Mackinaw, also known as lake trout. It is the most popular fish in Lake Tahoe and the average catch is between 3-10lbs but some have caught a whooping 20 lbs plus!

There are several good fishing companies in the area but South Lake Tahoe is where you can blend the fishing-in-the-day-and-casino-at-night theme. Right on the border from Lake Tahoe and Nevada there are several hotels at which to stay and play. The Harvey, Harrahs, Montibleu, and Lakeside Inn and Casino. Since there are many tour companies that charter for fishing, you can have your pick or just rent a boat and go out on your own. The calm water and breathtaking scenery make it a once in a lifetime adventure.

0 Comments

White Water Rafting

8/20/2013

0 Comments

Considering an thrilling outdoor adventure but have no experience with rafting? Luckily for you, there are many reputable companies that host rafting trips from 1 to 14 days. Choose from tours rafting through Vegas, Arizona, and Utah.

Most rafting companies suggests tours for your group based on age, experience, duration and location you wish to go. The best part about the rafting experience with a reputable tour company is that they have it all handled. From the experienced private guides, to the chefs that cook, knowledge of the surrounding areas, and providing transportation in and out of the rivers. Many rafting outfitters will just provide you with a packing list along with where to meet, and then they do all the rest. Their crews will pitch the tents, prepare the food, and in some cases depending on the style of tour, offer you a cold beer.

These tours can be basic and bare boned style rafting to an elite tour including being flown in by helicopter and catered to from start to finish. Some tours are motor-driven and others are powered only by your oars. In the same day you can shoot the rapids as well as just float along enjoying the scenery.

Spend your days sleeping under the stars and waking up to the brisk outdoor fresh air. Always double check the tour company you wish to travel with for their safety records and have fun!

0 Comments

Backyard Camping

8/19/2013

0 Comments

Certainly an oldie but goodie. Vacationing on a budget can be a challenge. How about turning your back yard into a camp? Pitch a tent (You can always borrow one if you do not have it or search the local charity thrift store), set up a mock campfire with a propane cook top, use some fold out chairs around it and let the creativity begin.

If you have an old campfire story telling book to read around the campfire while making aluminum foil surprise dinners and smores, you can make the ambiance more real. Invite a few of your kid’s friends for the campfire. What about making the old fashion gods eye yarn craft to add in some crafts to your theme?

0 Comments

Survival Skills or Crossbow Training

8/12/2013

0 Comments

Survival-training weekends are a great guys' bonding time. The chance to get outdoors and learn a few survival skills can be a very memorable theme vacation. It is also a great idea for a bachelor party as well as a father-son bonding time.

There are several companies that provide these trips from weekend get-a-ways to week long full immersion. You can easily find companies that cater from beginners to the more hearty advanced camps. Some companies are based on true outdoor survival and others to teach the art of skills such as crossbow clinics or archery.

If you cannot get away from home, this theme would make a fun guys day or night get together. Start by having survival themed foods such as grains and nuts, wild-game meats, and maybe a wildness berry fruit pie for dessert. Have everyone dress in their survival gear, throw in a few drinks and you have a party that the guys will all want to attend.

If you want to add in games, plan on something like the picture below where each person picks a random bag. Some guests become survivors, Others get attacked, (think zombie or something far-fetched so it stays lighthearted and fun) and two become the new-world President and Vice-President and win a prize.

0 Comments

All Things Zoo

8/9/2013

0 Comments

After we had dropped our daughter off at college, my husband and I decided to drive back slowly and reconnect as empty nesters. The zoos became our theme. From Indiana back to Phoenix we mapped out and stopped at every zoo, animal park, and bear country along the route.

First, we learned to just spend time walking and talking and second, we learned that not all zoos are created equal. There is something to be said about how the animals react to different habitats and what each zoo's interpretation is on what a habitat should look like. We really enjoyed the Bear Country USA in Wyoming which we had never heard of but looking back was a highlight. The bears roam freely in their habitat and you drive through each enclosure. We were lucky to be driving through as the bears were being feed, and the sheer amount of hotdogs they were able to consume in one sitting was impressive. Watching them eat them one by one, while holding on to them like a Popsicle, was adorable.

A zoo tour is perfect for all ages since it is a relaxed atmosphere and is hardly ever crowded. Many have trains for people with difficulty walking. Take the time to talk about the animals and how they work together as a family, and what other animals they might be related to. If you have little ones going, make sure to have them do a scavenger hunt for different types of animals, how they defend themselves, or how they live (being in groups or alone). Many grandparents are great resources for the youth and can interact with them in a positive way and their knowledge can open up many discussions.

0 Comments

Travel Ideas!

Lake Tahoe: Fishing and Gambling

White Water Rafting

Backyard Camping

Survival Skills or Crossbow Training

All Things Zoo

Categories

Archives