See Video Travelers Block Crooks! Protect your #Passport and Credit cards. This RFID Blocking Wallet prevents someone from reading your information, as fast as you can tap your CC at the coffee to pay, so can #crooks unknowingly bump your wallet. Worse yet, your passport. If you have a #RFID chip you are at risk.
Travelers Block Crooks! Protect your #Passport and Credit cards with this RFID Blocking Wallet. It prevents someone from reading your information, as fast as you can tap your RFID Credit Card at the coffee to pay, so can crooks unknowingly bump your wallet. In fact you don’t even have to touch it! Someone can walk close to you and read it with out you even knowing! I’ve put my chip in a reader and held the machine down with my other hand that holds may wallet and it read the one in my wallet, not the one I was using. Each RFID chip holds different information. It’s sad our government insists on giving up our info to every Tom Dick and Harry. Furthermore, I would absolutely never give up your home address again! Get a PO Box and buffer between you and the crooks. I get in a car accident with a hoodlum and we have to exchange addresses!!??? Sorry. Anyway, either get this RFID blocker or something like it to block readers. We need to press to our government make anyone who gives out our credit info, make them pay for the identity theft repercussions we have to go through. Go after businesses who send out CC Apps with our information on it to pay a fine. Anyway, here are a couple of options, a wallet, or slips you put your card in. Check out the video…
When Jamaica chose independence in 1962, the Cayman Islands elected to stay under British Rule. One thing you will notice flying in, they have ridiculously disproportionate banks to the size of the Island and population. The story goes..
‘…According to the legend, a member of the passenger list for the 10 vessels included a royal prince, one of the sons of Britain’s King George III. The legend further states that when the King was apprised of the bravery on the part of the Caymanians in saving the crews and passengers of the foundering ships, he decided to repay their bravery. The reward became a decree that the people of the Cayman Islands would thereafter be free from war conscription and taxes…’ –wikipedia
And for some reason today people hide their money here. Maybe because they evade taxes? Who knows. but you would think with towering banks, there would be a lot of hustle and bustle, traffic and such. Nope. It’s just a tropical island with big banks. In fact, not far away from main street on a inner city road, I poked my nose in an old, what seamed to be abandoned, shack with no one around. When I looked inside there was a gigantic cow hanging up side down getting it’s blood drained before butchering. Quite the eerie feeling being alone and rolling up on that. A few blocks up the street was a street vender with a bar-b-cue pit cooking up some jerk chicken. (You should try it, it’s yummy).
“Jerk chicken is a spicy grilled-meat dish that is coated in spices and slow-cooked over a fire or grill traditionally composed of green pimento wood positioned over burning coals; the smoke is the key to the flavor of the dish. Most associated with Jamaica but common throughout the Caribbean.A mixture of herbs, scotch bonnet peppers, spices, and seasonings that are used to flavor meats that will be grilled. A blend originated in Jamaica, includes ground chiles, black pepper, onions, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, allspice, and ginger.”
My excitement was this was the first time out of the Country where I had to get a pass port and do all that. I did go to Mexico, but I didn’t need a passport to get to Tijuana. That’s a whole nother story! Anyway, I not only got my pass port but I did get re-certified to scuba dive. I have all the gear, not including the tanks. We were going to a World class diving spot. I was excited to having some travel under my belt to start my blogging about travel. Anyway, We landed and stayed on Grand Cayman Island. We stayed at a first class Hotel / Condo. The Grand Cayman Resort. My 1st time at that too.
Other great Scuba diving sites here include Leslie’s Curl, Eagle Ray Pass and … You will likely catch a glimpse of eagle rays, turtles and sharks cruising off the wall. … as well where you can try the local brew, appropriately named. By the way I pet a shark while diving, I believe a Nurse shark -Ginglymostoma cirratum) the local fed it so it was almost like a pet. His shark who’s skin felt like it had 1000’s of tiny plastic bubbles.
00-2 9/17/2000 Christy’s Pool – Castro Valley, CA Location: Max Depth 6 Max Bottom Time 6 Min. ME: Tank Size: 80 PSI Start: 3000 Return: 500 Dive Buddy: Tank Size: 80 PSI Start: 3000 Return: 10
Pool PHOTO I dove with Kandi and her nieces (Sarah & Rachel) to test my equipment. They all got a chance to breath under water. I tested my dive equipment, my new dive watch and dive camera. The dive watch wasn’t working and had to return it as a recall. I had a problem with the Oceanic regulator. It was new, but used. The diaphragm would tend to flip over and I would suck in water; (Many dives later, I found out it was only that the ‘O’ ring was not in!! A very, very critical piece that held the diaphragm in place.) Dooley noted! This is why I test and retest!! AND RESEST!
Day 2 9/18/2000 I tired the new dive watch (Aeris / Savant dive computer) it working fine and logged ”6 ft 6 minutes of testing equipment.’ But reset too? It’s difficult for me to grasp. Only two buttons that do a lot. The kids adored diving. My framing was way off with the camera. I’m using the Sea & Sea USA – Underwater 35 mm Photography Camera
Grand Cayman Island
Grand Cayman Island “Public Beach” Grand Cayman Island “Seven Mile Beach” 9/24/2000 Total Bottom Time: Snorkle Max Depth 15 ft. This is a great photo opportunity for sandy beaches. The cabanas are painted mint green, pink, blue, purple, etc. Very tropical and cute. The beach is white sand with a shallow depth of about 15 feet deep. The Hotel had us a bbq party with the rest of the Hotel “Spicy Jerk Chicken”, a island specialty. The Popular beer here, or as they say, the Caribbean is “Red Strip” it’s a doable beer. Not to fancy attack on the taste buds. I say it tastes between a Bud and Amstell light.
We just snorkeled, not to many fish. Small ones huddled around underwater gadgets like a cement block anchor. Kandie seen a 2 foot spotted sing ray. As Kandie will attest to why you don’t handle the animals. She tired to pose for a photo, and it whipped around and stung her, about a 1/8 of a inch cut on her left hand. I can’t personally tell you what it feels like but she only got a small warning that hurt for about a half hour.
We fallowed around a pipe line and the fish seamed to hover around it for shelter. I took photos with my 35mm Sea Reef ASA 400 film. There was plenty of light due to the shallow depth and sunlight.
Grand Cayman Island
Later “Pepe” our Hotel driver — who I might add, took a liking to me and made sure I had a personal tour guide. Of course Kandie doesn’t like to be social at all, and gets annoyed at me. Not anymore than I get at her for being unsocial.
So anyway, Pepe drove me back to the beach to get my sandals I left behind. He insisted he take me to different spots to see the sun set for photo opps. He knew I was a professional photographer. I got a photo of a miniature lizard. A fisherman in a green boat, and back at the public beach I took sunset photos of the cabanas.
I got some photos of the Hotel and Peake, the cook holding a beautiful plate. In most cases I used a sky filter on the camera. (35 mm Minolta)
I met Gaylyn at the pool I asked her to be a stand in for a photo. We became friends. Eventually I passed out from exhaustion at the end of the day.
9-25-2000 The Hotel offered to go on a day Cruz of Crystal Harbor. Where we met officially Gaylen and her girlfriend Tree who soon became our travel friends.
I picked up the photos I sent in for development.
Dive Log 00-3 9/28/2000 Time: 1:11 US/Sf time Total Bottom Time: 26 min. Max Depth 45 ft. LOCATION: Grand Cayman Island “Eden Rock” Church & Grand Eden Rock North W.50 19’17.618 N 81’23.227W 20 1 Eden Rock South W.51 19’17.586 N 81’23.236W 20 1
Diving with Cayman Diver Ltd. Capt. Don Foster.WEB / Facebook
9/28/2000 Time: 1:11 US/Sf time Total Bottom Time: 29 min. Max Depth 105 ft.
00-4 Leslies Curl LOCATION: North Side Grand Cayman Island Leslie’s Curl N.18 / Latitude 19’23.030 N Longitude 81’19.214 W Depth 60 PIN 1
Grand Cayman Island “The Wall“ currency in Grand Cayman is the Cayman Island dollar (CI$) which has a fixed … and Time 16:43 (US/SF Time?) Total Bottom Time: 29 Max Depth 105 ft.
Swim with fishes 24 hours have gone by sense I swam to the edge of the abyss known as “The Wall” on Cayman Island. I was at 105 feet looking down into deeper darkness, venerable to another planet on earth. Amazed at it’s Grandeur and beauty, fearful of the unknown. Yet brave enough to swim to the edge. Every move I made, I was conscious of the oxygen I was breathing in, conscious of every shallow breath, as the sounds of my bubbles so deep in the ocean ascend as I slowly descend. I am more amazed to look up, where others are amazed to look down and around. Here I am; living and breathing deep underwater like a fish. Sunlight at the surface trickles beams of light through the water as though you can reach up and grab one over 100 feet away. Looking at the bottom of our boat. Wow! Wow, at it’s beautiful, and Wow, that I am breathing where few dare to tread. And wow, I can die. As I try to relax and take it all in, I try to focus on something besides the apparent sound of my troubled breathing. Our guide pointed out a giant ‘Spotted Stingray’ gracefully gliding through the water.
I caught up with him and fallowed behind the Ray who swam more graceful than anything I had ever seen. His wing span larger than my arms. As I got closer he sped up, >>>>>>>just a little more faster to my advance, and looped shortly into a sore down the edge of the abyss, until I was at my maximum depth 105 feet then back up. I fallowed him, mimicking the movements of his wings, then back up 98 feet floating into a soft ascend. For a moment I felt the sensation of what a bird following a flock of birds. Wondering what it would be like to be him. As I got closer he would speed up, being more cautious of my moves. For a moment I forgot about my breathing and all the fears I had, I was one with his grace.
Sting Ray City, Grand Cayman Island
My Map Cayman Islands Dive Guide Franko Maps Waterproof Map Map – October 1, 2018 https://amzn.to/40r54kh
Mr Heater Buddy best indoor propane heater review, see how the safety feature that automatically shuts the gas off if it tips over!!
One of my Favorite Things: Mr Heater Buddy the best indoor propane heater for home, emergency kit and RV’s! Here is my review and demonstration how the safety features work when it gets knocked over in the video. If you get this, or any propane heater I would absolutely get the ‘Kidde Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector’! Make sure you read all the directions and potential hazards.
Best is to consult the fire department about your space. You can hook it up to a larger tank, but go by the instructions and use only approved connectors and process! When in doubt shut the source of gas off. I love the 1lb option incase I fall asleep with the heater on.
I love the compactness, the reliability and the versatility. Make sure you only used the Mr Heater parts and recommendations and have the recommended ventilation. There is a safety feature that automatically shuts the gas off if it tips over or if its not lit like the the light goes out from the wind or something. If you ever read any direction in your life, read these ones! Also, do a soap test so you know you have it properly attached and there are no leaks. There is not safety shut off at the tank connection. I also got the cover so I keep the unit clean when not using. It’s worth the investment. If not for camping and RVs, have it as an emergency backup. I had one 20 years and eventually it got clogged up for not covering it when not in use. Also non Mr Buddy parts can leach out oils that also clog the parts.
This is Pt1. Part 2 I will show the accessories for the Buddy. Check out the links below.
– Stacy Poulos Adventure Life Reporter @postcardTravelers
My favorite time of year again! The Most Exciting Travel Show Returns to the Bay Area and I will be there to get the scoop. March 4-5th 2023. Tickets are available on line or at the door. Discover thousands of vacation options from the top destinations, tour operators and travel providers from around the globe, the world in one room! Meet with travel experts who are on-hand to help you plan and book your trip. Many owner operators! You’ll receive the most up to date travel tips and advice, with the chance to meet your favorite travel celebrity. Plus, you’ll have access to show-only travel savings, trip giveaways and show-only deals, right at your fingertips! Click below to learn more and buy tickets, and we’ll see you at the SF/Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show. [More information]
Past Shows: My mentor Rick Steve’s will be there to name a few. The interesting thing about going to expo events like these, is how excited you get when you’re surrounded by things you love. Who doesn’t love to travel? This show is at the Santa Clara Convention Center but they’re all over the USA. Click on the book!
Super Kool ORU Kayak http://bit.ly/2HOMwVq
Event Description; The Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show is where travel lovers come for travel inspiration, expert information and fun, cultural interaction. It’s where you’ll discover thousands of authentic travel experiences and speak directly to the travel experts who can get you there, give you the inside scoop, and save you money on exclusive travel deals.
Host, Rick Steves’ Europe, Samantha Brown, Travel Channel Host, and Pauline Frommer, Editorial Director of the Frommer’s Guides and Publisher.
My gear at REI. I love everything about them. Most recently I bought this backpack that is light weight and has a frame on the inside. Seriously I love it!
Tip: One Month to Live Author Patricia Schultz gives us 5 places to go.
Open up Tea bag anchor wings up over a cup, to stabilize the filter fold the anchors to look like wings. (Not mentioned in the video).
Tear open center and make a wide opening
Pour over hot water into the grounds. Careful water don’t spill all over. It’s ok if the bottom of the tea bad is immersed. This will make your coffee stronger.
When it’s cool enough to drink you are ready tp go.
Also available on Amazon. Video By #StacyPoulos @postcardtravelers
Product details: PREMIUM SINGLE ORIGIN PAPUA NEW GUINEA MAPLE SYRUP • RED OAK • DARK CHOCOLATE Be transported to a far away island with this classic coffee from Papua New Guinea, delicate sweetness complemented with flavors of red oak and dark chocolate. * Region: Eastern Highlands * Altitude: 4757 ft.
After 2 years of planning and a 2nd attempt to find it on the Delta, I finally found my Shipwreck! For now it’s the ‘Spud Island Shipwreck’ since there are no markings and I can’t find any information on it. It will officially be the ‘Spud Island Shipwreck’. On the way to the wreck #CaptainBonnie (Bonnie Nasworthy Jones) pointed out a sunken city. I call ‘Jones Track Ghost Town’, an abandoned sunken Ghost Town. It consists of a few floating (or not floating) buildings and house boats abandoned by a man who left them behind to live in Costa Rica. Now the Delta is slowly swallowing them up. It’s definitely a ominous Ghostly scene. I took many photos of both locations. I didn’t get to spend as much time flying over them for my battery only lasted 10 minutes. rrr. Anyway, what a journey! Thank you Captin Bonnie for being such a brave, patient and great caption to get me there and back safely through the twisted and dangerous areas of the Delta and San Joaquin River! Stand by for the video ‘Journey to Spud Island Shipwreck’ and keep and eye out for my photography from the trip. www.PostcardTravelers.com by Stacy Poulos & Eye Fly Cinematography
Hike/ Palos Colorados Trail Head – Joaquin Miller Park 40 Joaquin Miller Ct, Oakland, CA 94611
This is a great, completely shaded, hike in the Oakland hills of California. ‘Palos Colorados Trail’ is just one of the many ‘Joaquin Miller Park’ Trails. Palos Colorados you can hike round trip about 3 miles along the Palo Seco Creek, well the creek is at the bottom of the hill. (On my map below it’s the red line). With a 688 feet elevation gain. (Down hill on the way back). (Get the official Oakland Trails Map https://oaklandtrails.org/maps/)No bikes allowed. If you choose to go on a bike trail for part of it, continue on the the orange line (The Sinawik trail) going back on that one will also make you end up, up-hill. Or just double back on the Palos Colorados like we did. I wasn’t looking to break a record, just get the body moving. I mention I was on a Keto Diet, I didn’t follow it in it’s entirely, I mostly changed many things in my diet and cut out the CARBS and sugar and lost 30 pounds. The coconut Oil I speak of was MTC Oil, here’s a link. You have to have ‘good fat’ in your diet. Avocado everyday and MTC Oil (Coconut Oil). I Have it everyday in my coffee. I also get it from Vitacost about $14.00 where it retails $23.00 as well as many of my Vitamin products. (Free shipping when you reach a certain amount). I feel great! 30 days before my next birthday I was determined to change my life in every way. You really see results fast with Keto with just a few changes. I also changed my beer, (your really not supposed to drink beer but I know having one 2/3rd less carbs also played a big factor). I did many other things that contribute to anti aging like nuts, berries, etc. At some point I’ll get more into it. Like I found on a rock; “What you are not changing, you are choosing”. I don’t want to be like the rock!
Keto Diet-MTC-Oil
Any way, I mention a very ‘old metal pipe’ in the video turns out, they are remnants from an old water delivery system that fed the neighborhoods below Joaquin Miller Park from a reservoir that once occupied the meadow inside the park. So, no, it’s not for Gold mining as I thought, that I know of. If you look closely though you can tell it was made a long-long time ago.
The hike has some good elevations for interesting views and exercise. It’s a narrow trail, with a big drop. The one we went on has no bikes, but you can make sort of a round trip and end up behind Monaghans Oakland if you chose to take the bike trail back. But you are always dealing with bicyclist. And to get back to your car, you will have to walk on the road. Unless you leave a car at Monaghans, then you can drive your friend back after you have lunch. Be cautious where you park, they tow cars around Monaghans! Anyway Have a great day, enjoy the trip.
My favorite time of year again! The Most Exciting Travel Show Returns to the Bay Area and I will be there to get the scoop. Tickets are available on line or at the door. My mentor Rick Steve’s will be there to name a few. The interesting thing about going to expo events like these, is how excited you get when you’re surrounded by things you love. Who doesn’t love to travel? This show is at the Santa Clara Convention Center but they’re all over the USA. Click on the book!
SF / Bay Area: May 21-22 + Other locations and dates.
Super Kool ORU Kayak http://bit.ly/2HOMwVq
Event Description; The Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show is where travel lovers come for travel inspiration, expert information and fun, cultural interaction. It’s where you’ll discover thousands of authentic travel experiences and speak directly to the travel experts who can get you there, give you the inside scoop, and save you money on exclusive travel deals.
Host, Rick Steves’ Europe, Samantha Brown, Travel Channel Host, and Pauline Frommer, Editorial Director of the Frommer’s Guides and Publisher.
My gear at REI. I love everything about them. Most recently I bought this backpack that is light weight and has a frame on the inside. Seriously I love it!
Tip: One Month to Live Author Patricia Schultz gives us 5 places to go.
Pirates, shipwrecks, and Ghosts Adventure Map By Stacy Poulos PostcardTravelers.com
There is nothing like a full moon to uncover what lies beneath the surface of the earth. I’m not going to lie, I’ve been learning as I go about this phenomenon called ‘tides’ since I have been kayaking and was basically stuck in the mud trying to get to the shore walking my boat in mud up to my knees. It’s something I knew about but never really understood it’s wonder. And then there’s King tides. Which is an even greater water level. Which I took notice when I was kayaking in Alameda and couldn’t get close to my kayak partner because the current was so great and I was tired from a long day of kayaking. So it’s not advisable to be kayaking or boating, or even being near the edge of the water because of sneaker waves. But at low tied it’s a great time to see what has been under the water all this time. During this King tide the water level reached 7+ feet at highest tide in the SF Bay Area. For me this mean there are a few ships including one from the 1800’s I have to go see at it’s lowest tide. This King tide will last just a few days.
Unfortunately the lowest tide had been at sunset, and with the clouds almost impossible to see, but I DID! I was at Point San Pablo at 5pm ish and on the road looking into Point San Pablo Harbor and off to the left of the harbor you can see the shape of what appears to be a large wood ship. What is left is just the frame that look like a fence of just posts.
King Tides Week of January 21-23
Here are some important tips that will educate even just a hiker or walker along any Bay or shore in the world! No matter where you go. And if you are traveling, you are most likely planning on being near water! So be aware, knowledge is power.
Parking. With out looking at a tide chart, you can logically look at the ground and see where the water line is on low and high tide. Usually the water line is pretty apparent. Know that if it is low tide and your car is far away from the water. It can possible be submerged when you get back! Or the road you came in will be submerged as well. Almost for sure when there is a King tide.
Kayaking and boating and being stuck in the mud. Have no fear. Know that every 6 hours the Tide changes direction. Before it dose it will sit for a hour before it makes it way back called a slack tide. Most the time you don’t know the tide is even moving. So it can creep up on you. Lets say you planned to get out of the water and there is 20 feet of mud. You can wait it out cut it will eventually fill up.
Wikipedia Ebb and Flow
“Ebb and flow (also called ebb and flood and flood drain) are two phases of the tide or any similar movement of water. The ebb is the outgoing phase, when the tide drains away from the shore; and the flow is the incoming phase when water rises again. The terms are also common in figurative use…” – Wikipedia
“Slack water, also known as ‘the stand of the tide’, is a short period in a body of tidal water when the water is completely unstressed, and there is no movement either way in the tidal stream, and which occurs before the direction of the tidal stream reverses…” – Wikipedia
More incite: When you see a boat in the mud tipped over, have no fear. It’s most likely the owner misjudged the tides and soon the water will be back to fill up.
Boater rules. It is boaters curtsy and I think law that you’re never supposed to pass by a boater in need of help. [article] You could save their life, even if at the moment they seam to be fine.
Currents. Currents are whats happening underneath. When you get near large objects like bridges, boulders, etc. The water rushes more and is stronger to get around those objects. Think of the SF Bay as a big bottle of water with a small neck (the golden Gate Bridge) that poor into another bottle of water and it takes 6 hours to pour on to the other bottle. As it pours back into the SF Bay it fills all the little bays as it goes back out to sea it’s sucks the water from the shore line leaving sometimes 4 to 20 feet of mud depending where you are at. This is world wide. If you don’t want to be stuck in the mud, plan on coming out of the water at high tide. However, you also want to think about the direction of the current. It’s a delicate balance of knowing the current. Sometimes, excuse my language but it can be a bitch going against the current! So there are 2 known factors tides and current. The wild card is weather / wind factor. You can go with a current but against the wind. And honestly I don’t know what is worse. And then there is light. Ya, you got it planned out on paper, but what about sunset? Will you be able to see when you get out? And if it’s cloudy or near mountains or cliffs you can loose hours of good light! Whew, thats a lot to think about. But you should always think about it!! One time when I was in Zion National Park we didn’t start a hike until 3pm, I know, duh!! Not my fault. Anyway, even though we could see at the top of the mountain. Walking back it was in the straight up dark! The mountains basically had us in a crack in the ground. Luckily I was prepared and had a head lamp light in my arsenal of stuff. Petzel is a great bran. Always buy your adventure gear at REI, I recommend becoming a member worth the bucks. You’ll get it back in lots of lifetime savings! They are our sponsor and affiliate because I love them!
Petzl Headlamps
A cheaper and great option is this little head lamp that I clip on my hat. Best thing since sliced bread! I love it. I have two one for me and on for a adventure partner. They are usually never prepared. I always wear a baseball cap. If you don’t, it’s not the best option. For me, it is!
My Favorite Amphipod Swift-Clip Cap Light
I also have one of these clipped on my belt hiking belt. And life jacket. I think it’s great to have at all times. Not exactly a flash ligt but in a emergency it can help guide you hime. However I don’t know how water proof it is. Just don’t be cheap about these items!
Favorite thins Nite Ize SpotLit LED Carabiner Light
Maps or better yet officially called “Charts” A NOAA chart will show you how deep the water is at it normal low level. It will also show ship wrecks the are submerged so boaters with engines don’t run into them. For me it’s a place to explore and how I found may locations of shipwrecks. They are free on line. If your a boater / kayaker I recommend buying the one of the area you frequent. For me it’s like a treasure map!
I will up date this blog as I find my shipwrecks during the King Tides.
May Adventure Map. Zoom into Ocean Beach Area, Hunters point and Richmond bridge area on the Richmond side and Point San Pablo. There are layers at the top you can turn on more layers and turn off layers.
San Francisco History Days Vender — photo by Stacy Poulos Postcardtravelers.com
authentic civil war uniform – costume- photo by Stacy Poulos Postcardtravelers.com
Take a unique trip back in San Francisco time at the ‘San Francisco History Days’ held every year in March. Here, History enthusiast dress up in authentic period clothing to add to the atmosphere. There are many booths that represent Historical organizations and museums all over the Bay area. Mostly in SF. My favorite booth was the Pacific Bus Museum sense I have already have been there in Fremont. There were representatives from all over. This is a great resource for researching History, locations, actors, etc. there are endless possibilities all at the Old Mint, which is a vault as a perfect setting. “…dozens of organizations celebrating and telling the stories of the City’s unique past. We invite you to meet community historians, archivists, genealogists, archaeologists, researchers, educators, re-enactors, and other history enthusiasts at this FREE, all-ages weekend event at the historic site.’ (List of 2018 exhibitors)
Here is a little teaser video of what it’s like on the inside.
My favorite time of year again! The Most Exciting Travel Show Returns to the Bay Area and I will be there to get the scoop. Tickets are available on line or at the door. My mentor Rick Steve’s will be there to name a few. The interesting thing about going to expo events like these, is how excited you get when you’re surrounded by things you love. Who doesn’t love to travel? This show is at the Santa Clara Convention Center but there all over the USA. Click on the book!
SF / Bay Area: May 21-22, 2022 + Other locations and dates.
Event Description; The Bay Area Travel & Adventure Show is where travel lovers come for travel inspiration, expert information and fun, cultural interaction. It’s where you’ll discover thousands of authentic travel experiences and speak directly to the travel experts who can get you there, give you the inside scoop, and save you money on exclusive travel deals.
Host, Rick Steves’ Europe, Samantha Brown, Travel Channel Host, and Pauline Frommer, Editorial Director of the Frommer’s Guides and Publisher.
My gear at REI. I love everything about them. Most recently I bought this backpack that is light weight and has a frame on the inside. Seriously I love it!
Tip: One Month to Live Author Patricia Schultz gives us 5 places to go.
Visit Hiller Aviation Museum 601 Skyway Rd, San Carlos, CA 94070
(650) 654-0200
http://www.hiller.org/ https://www.facebook.com/HillerAviationMuseum
This is such a great place! Real airplanes hanging from the ceiling. Vintage airplanes and replicas of the first airplanes including ones that never left the ground. In their words: “The Hiller Aviation Museum engages the community in the human spirit of adventure, discovery and innovation. Through compelling exhibits and immersive programs, the museum provides a stimulating environment with multiple ways for public audiences to experience the adventure of aviation, its future promise and its history in California, and to use aviation as a gateway for exploring science, history and technology.” I’ll say! This place is great for kids and adults. Check out my live mini tour video and bonus video flying inside a PT-17 in a Air show for the Tuskegee Airmen. PT-17 were there Trainer Planes.
Live inside At Hiller Aviation Museum In San Carlos with Stacy Poulos PostcardTravelers
I have a lot of History with flying and I have a correction to make about this video, my grandfather George Stein worked for Hughes Aircraft where was one of the 3rd persons to fly over the Atlantic Ocean in the China Clipper (not 42nd as I stated in the video). He also worked on the Space Shuttle for NASA and engineered and modified old bomber aircraft planes so they can add new technology computers to them. His Company was Stein Engineering. At one point we had a wind tunnel built in our living room for NASA. As a child the 1st Airplane I flew in landed in the water; Catalina Seaplanes, I’m in love with them! Of course after I flew, in many commercial airplanes that landed on the ground. As a young adult I flew around Catalina Island in a Cessna 150 sword fish spotting, the Pilot let me take hold of the rains. Later I was one of the independent camera at the 1 Air Show Honoring the Tuskegee Airmen and interviewed the 1st Black Pilots of America and the 1st Black General of America Benjamin O. Davis Jr. Which also landed me to have the honor of Flying in the lead Airplane with the president of the Confederate Air force Milo Tichacek in his PT-17 (see the bonus video inside that flight!). Then I flew in the nose of a B-25 Bomber the gunner seat. Eventually upside down in a P-51 and a an old Beechcraft. I’ve also flown in the channel 5 helicopter, and a police helicopter. Whew! So as you can imagine I had the aviation bug all my life. Eventually I took a lesion with California Airways with Keith Amaro and got to fly over the Golden gate bridge in a Cessna 172! Basically; lucky, lucky, lucky, lucky …and lucky!!
Kaboom! I can take this off my bucket list, being directly under the projection of the fireworks at the Aquatic Park Historic District pier! We put-in our boat and launched at Hyde Street Pier in San Francisco, California. Hovering under the pier A little too close for comfort, until the fireworks unsuspectedly started. The current kept making us drift quickly away so we hovered under the pier. We even had all our lights off to save batteries, so we were in the dark. The first echoing Kaboom explosionsunder the pier were un-describable. Enough to rattle your nerves! I was deeper under the pier being in the back of the boat looking out at Ghirardelli Square. *In this video I said ‘last time I got in trouble’. It was because I got too close to the Historic boats. There were no signs that I could see at the time. It is kind of roped off with buoys. This time we stayed further away out side the line. One way or another, I recommend this spot. During the day there is a live concert on shore. We had a back stage pass, a nice little additive to the day. The yellow box with the star is where the fireworks barge is. The Teal Green boater is where we hovered until the fireworks started.
fireworks projection san francisco Aquatic Park
However, I don’t recommend right there. Much too close. Instead bring a anchor at least 20 feet long and hover at a safe distance like we are in the photo below. To the left and center of the park here we are look at the Municipal Pier a posed to being under it!
Live Concert at Ghirardelli Square 4th of July
So, planning for next year. I recommend going here. Be more prepared. I do own a kayak anchor. When I looked at the Coast Guard Map it said it was around 7-14 feet deep in the area but there is only one marker and I didn’t think my anchor was that long. Besides it being a pain to add more weight. Next time I will bring one for sure! If your planning on hovering in the ocean, there is always a current. Anyway, below is a live interactive google map with all my notes for 4th of July over the years in the SF Bay. If you click on any icon, it will zoom into that note. When you click on ‘Aquatic Park Historic District‘ And look at the orange line that was our path in 2017. To the upper left of the map are my notes, that little box’ie icon on the upper top left corner opens the notes, click on anything at it will bring you to the spot on the map. Bottom right is the + and – zoom button. You can then close the notes with the left arrow it to get the notes out of the way. I also have a layer of land notes, where I intend to go for a city hike and check out the same area on land someday.
Aquatic Park Historic District pier Ghirardelli Square 4th of July
Launching on Hyde Street Pier AquaticPark. I’m not sure you can launch out of the museum. Since the public beach was full of people we couldn’t go their.
History of the 4th –
I think this is one of the safer and best spots in the San Francisco bay to view the fireworks from land or water. If you know the History of the 4th, or Independence Day and the inspiration to our National Anthem, you would know the 4th of July is meant to replicate what Francis Scott Key seen on that fateful day in 1812. He was a British lawyer on the French Ship; HMS Tonnant negotiating a British prisoner exchange were he was to negotiate the release of prisoners, during the Battle of Baltimore at Fort McHenry. (The only other place that can possibly top this spot). Key learned too much about the French’s attack on the British, so they kept him a prisoner as well. So all during that night Key witnessed the fireworks in the bay of Fort McHenry. In the morning when the fireworks stopped, and lack of communication the only way to know who won the battle was the American flag still standing. He wrote a poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry”, that later became the lyrics to ‘The Star Spangled Banner’.
So why is this the best spot? First of all, the Maritime National Historical Park is situated inside Aquatic Park San Francisco… in the water! There are period ships to set the perfect scenery of what the bay may have looked like. The ships are much younger in the park; like the Balclutha 1886 and the C. A. Thayer 1895 but look very similar. Add a dark sky with a silhouette of the old ships sails from the 1800’s lit up by fireworks, well you’ll get the picture and full effect. A lot of people don’t know this History, so why do I? I wrote a book report in the 4th or 5th grade about it. I found it fascinating that people were so affected and heart felt over a song, it inspired me to want to write music. So now you know. Now let’s let Key set the story and imagine the background.
Oh say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light, What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming, Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight, O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming? And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof thru the night that our flag was still there. Oh say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
SanFrancisco Maritime National Historical Park Fireworks Francis Scott Key, 1779–1843
So we won. And every year we celebrate this day in a grand way.
Reason 2, why it’s the best place to kayak on the 4th? The park is protected by a breakwater pier. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t strong currents, but it’s a protected area and larger boats can only go 5 mph. There are actually crazy swimmers swimming at night. There are police and coastguards near by. Of course if you don’t have a walkie talkie that wont do you any good. So it is most watched by land and sea.
Next good reason, the fireworks barge is directly on the other side of the pier and they project the firework into the park. Giving the people on land and sea one hell of a show! Wow!! We hovered under the pier until the fireworks started because the current was so strong it kept making us struggle to stay in one spot. On land you can walk and board the ships.
The depth in the park looks to be 7 to 14 feet deep. Of course I wouldn’t recommend where I was, the first fireworks rattled me to the core. Being under the pier echoed the effect in such away that you felt you were in a war being bombed. Not sure your supposed to be under there but we needed to be protected by the current. Eventually we let loose and drifted to the center of the park facing the fireworks and current. It was foggy as SF is, but it also had a unique effect in it’s self.
Dolphin Swim & Boat Club and South End Rowing Club
We Put-in at Hyde Street Park. I’m not gonna lie, I’m not sure your supposed to. I heard there was a public beach launch to the left of the photo but it was all blocked for pedestrians to view the show on shore. Since we got out next door to the rowing and dolphin club, I assume they assumed we were with them. Frankly it’s not fair there aren’t more safe put in areas for the public to launch. So you might want to try to arrange something or find out the real rules. We parked our car in the red zone on Hyde street, dropped the boat off onto the side walk, my friend parked the truck while I waited. We communicated through walkie takies, which I highly recommend getting water proof ones even if you don’t think you need them. You don’t want to kill your phone batteries trying to communicate and it’s a pain other wise. I will list my personal favorite things kayaking. Eventually we walked the kayak through the crowded street.
So, the park is not that big to explore a whole day, and if your going out side the park it should be done in much better conditions. You can putt around the park and see the ships below, just don’t get too close or they get mad. To the right / east, are docks you can explore. You can go in a area all the crab fishermen dock their boats. There is a lot of untold History in them, some barely afloat. Also before you get in the water you can actually go on these Historic ships for a small fee that supports our wonderful parks.
It was next to the Dolphin Swim & Boat Club and South End Rowing Club. You might want get involved with them to launch your kayak. We technically just walked through the Hyde Street gate and put our boat in. However the gate closes at 5pm, so you have to be out by then, or the gate is locked. You can technically still get out from inside, but not go back in, should you leave something behind. It’s a beach launch and even though it’s a protected area, there is a strong current when it comes time. How ever it’s protected and the current isn’t as strong as out side the park. It’s cool because you kayak next to old ships. Perfect setting for 4th of July. We hovered under the pier until it came time for the fire works. But be aware, even at 9pm at night there are crazy swimmers. We had the best seat in the house, with a back stage pass to a concert and being literally under the projection of the fireworks! Here’s a important notation it’s a beach launch, pretty mild. You go through the gates of the Museum and the gates close at 5pm. Most the people who work at the Museum are volunteers over 90, kidding. I don’t think they care.
However you can still get out because the gate is only locked for people getting in. So if your out in the Bay and need a emergency out, here it is. There is a public restroom.
To take a rest, we ended up landing at the Dolphin Swim & Boat Club. The girl sitting on the beach was really nice and helped pull us ashore until she realized we weren’t members cuz we asked dumb questions. Then her face turned unfriendly like we were on her property and said they don’t take to kindly to non-members. So we went next door, and went out the Row Club doors to the street. Much more friendly group of people. They promised they would let us back in to get to our boat.
We just wanted out of the water to rest. We just weren’t sure where to go, so we can come back to our boat. I just think it’s pure BS. 4th of July, land of the ‘free’ BS. Land of we own this, get the f’ off. When it comes to boating it’s dangerous to send boaters back out that need to rest. Or set their lights or get out of rough waters. We had struggled for a long time against the currents and wind, we needed to rest. I’ve got nothin’ for people that don’t help, sorry I disturbed your cozy picnic. I mean we are loaded down to kayak, do we look like we want to stay here? All in, all. There were only 4 kayakers besides us, anyone who really kayaks wouldn’t go out in, apparently, gusting winds which I wish they would say MPH, which is 16.1 to 19.6 MPH. Gusting means ‘gusting’ temporary burst of wind. Ok got it! Ya, so I’m learning as I go. Anyway, take that off my bucket list.
Old Fishing Boat Fisherman’s Warf SF Stacy Poulos Photography
Anyway, once parked we went across the street to the fancy Blue Mermaid Restaurant. I looked like a Uni-bomber with my kayak vest still on, walkie talkie, pilot knife. I had coffee while my friend had oysters and beer. Absolutely beautiful restaurant. I must go back. Anyway, all in all it was such a great evening. After the hair raising fireworks, Instead of leaving immediately, we loaded up the car with the boat, parked then went to a bar Jacks Cannery Bar for a night cap to let all the traffic go away. Sucks having to drink expensive beer (cash only) out of a plastic cup, when you just risked your life, I don’t know how many times… welcome back to land. But there was a mixed group of out of town’ers fun to chat with.
Below I listed some of my favorite things kayaking.
#1 My Kokatat MsFIT Tour PFD – Women’s Life vest.
I love the walkie talkie pocket and the front stretch mesh pockets to stow essentials. The pocket are not water proof. But when I do put things in the pockets, they are in plastic in need be. The deep-cut neck and armholes maximize range of motion for my arms, there is a difference! I used to kayak with a ‘water ski jacket’ and it gave me rub burns under my arms. Your life vest is –your LIFE Vest! It’s a investment. Having things on your body and not hanging from your neck it super important. If you capsize you have less to get hung up on. Chapsitck and sunscreen and cell phone is in the pocket! However, getting back in the boat you have the pockets to contend with. Kokatat is a great brand, when I went to The Travel Show, a pro Kayker had one and she gave me a personal tour of her’s and she swore by it. I had my eye on it the first day I seen one. They are all very adjustable in size. I have a Large. You can say I’m smitten by mine. It also has a ‘Strobe lash tab’ I guess thats what they call it. Anyway, you can attach other things to it, for me I have my Rambo ‘NRS Pilot Knife’ which I love. There is Reflective tape on the back and chest. You never know when you will be out at night fall.
I will get more into products I love in a dedicated blog
Kokatat MsFIT Tour PFD Women pro favorite My NRS Pilot River Knife (Rambo) knife is always ready for action. It’s 3 inch stainless-steel blade with blunt safety tip has both smooth and serrated cutting edges; matte finish with a are hole in the handle that serves as a valve wrench for an oxygen tank a bottle opener is built into the handle. Comes in handy for many uses.
My NRS Pilot River Knife (Rambo) knife is always ready for action. It’s 3 inch stainless-steel blade with blunt safety tip has both smooth and serrated cutting edges; matte finish with a are hole in the handle that serves as a valve wrench for an oxygen tank a bottle opener is built into the handle. Comes in handy for many uses.
Motorola MS350R 35-Mile Talkabout Waterproof 2-Way Radio (Pair)
This is one of my favorite products. You think, everyone has a cell phone why not just call? You don’t want to ware out your cell phone communicating out on the road, trail or water. I use them everywhere! Hiking, kayaking. Used them in Europe to talk to my friends. Hands down best buy. They have a charging case so you just place them in the cradle after a long day. My mom got me mine for my birthday. You don’t want to dial and wait to ring, you want to send your message.
Ad a whistle to your vests, (super important) and your good to go! The whistle replaces a horn on a boat. I’ve actually been hit by a big boat, not dead on but swiped the side of my kayak. Having a whistle can help you let them know you are their since we sit so low in the water.
