The Trekking Pawns' Diary

Hello, travel lovers! This weekend, we're off to Las Vegas , but not quite how you'd expect. Forget the typical Strip clubs and casinos! Instead, we’re diving into the other side of Vegas—exploring quirky museums, savoring unique eats, and taking a side trip to the Hoover Dam. We’re renting a car, staying off the Strip, and soaking up all the best spots that make Vegas more than neon lights. So pack those layers, grab your camera, and get ready for a weekend packed with adventure ! What’s the Weather Like? November in Vegas means mild days and chilly nights. Daytime temps hover around 60°F (15°C) and dip into the 40s°F (7°C) after dark. Think cozy layers! We’ll pack tees, long sleeves, and a light jacket for the evening, plus comfy shoes, sunglasses, and a water bottle for our exploring spree. Our Off-the-Strip Weekend Itinerary Friday Night: Arrival & First Bites Check-in at the Resort: We’re keeping it laid-back at a resort off the Strip, where we’ll have a chill space t

Hello, fellow adventurers! With Halloween behind us and winter just around the corner, our thoughts are drifting back to the festive beauty of London. The holiday season there is something truly magical, with twinkling lights, cozy nooks, and a bustling energy that we can’t help but miss! So, in the spirit of daydreaming, we’ve put together the perfect 7-day London holiday itinerary. If we were to return, here’s exactly how we’d soak up the festive cheer. Day 1: Arrive and Settle In Where to Stay: The Langham : For classic London charm and holiday décor that looks straight out of a storybook. Treehouse London : A bit more modern with fun, cozy vibes. Plus, they have epic views of the city! Covent Garden Hotel : Right in the heart of festive magic, with a homey, boutique feel. What to Pack London in December is crisp and chilly, so pack cozy layers! We’d bring: A warm coat (wool or down) Cozy scarves and gloves Waterproof boots (for those surprise London showers!) A few dressy outfits f

Hey everyone! While we’re busy brushing up on our French for our trip to Nice, we couldn’t resist a little daydream escape to… Las Vegas! There’s no city quite like it, with neon lights, a buzzing nightlife, and endless activities. So, here’s our ultimate weekend itinerary to help you soak up all the Vegas magic. (Any links you click on or book with will not cost you anything extra, but we may receive perks from affiliates) Las Vegas in November: What to Expect November is a perfect time to hit up Vegas. The temperatures are cooler, hovering around a comfortable 50-70°F (10-21°C). Gone is the intense summer heat, making it ideal for exploring the Strip without melting into the sidewalk. Pack light layers—think a couple of t-shirts, a light sweater or jacket for the evenings, and comfortable walking shoes. Vegas might be glam, but comfort is key! November also brings some exciting events, from the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series to special Thanksgiving feasts. And if you’re lucky, you mi

The clouds come in fast, but still a beautiful place to explore. This view is from  Colline du Château --- October in Nice is a delightful time to visit, offering a balance between the city’s vibrant atmosphere and the mellowing crowds. It’s the sweet spot where you get the best of both worlds—a lively yet laid-back vibe that makes it perfect for exploring without the hustle and bustle of summer tourists. What to Expect Fewer Crowds, More Authenticity: The streets and beaches are noticeably quieter, making it a great time to experience Nice like a local. Without the masses, you can take your time to stroll through Old Town, explore its winding alleys, and enjoy people-watching from outdoor cafes at a more relaxed pace. The restaurants are easier to get into, and you won’t feel rushed. You might even strike up a conversation with a friendly local! Perfect Beach Weather (Almost): While the temperatures might not be sweltering, the Mediterranean Sea is still warm enough for a swim. You

Not as mean beach goers and many places are starting to clean up their cabanas.  --- When we were planning this trip to Nice, we figured that summer would be too busy. We had visited briefly two years ago and remembered the city being packed with tourists. So, we thought fall would be the perfect balance—fewer crowds, cooler weather, and still enough sunshine to enjoy the beach. But as the trip got closer, we kept obsessively checking the weather reports, and let’s just say the forecasts weren’t looking too promising. The hydraulic outlook for the Mediterranean didn’t exactly scream “sun-soaked beach days.” That first day, though, was beautiful—sunny with a few clouds scattered here and there, just enough to remind us it wasn’t quite summer anymore. We headed down to the beach, wearing our swimsuits optimistically, but when we dipped our toes in the water, it was colder than we remembered. It was a bit too brisk for us, so we decided to hold off on swimming for now. Instead, we laid on

Exploring the local markets in Nice has been one of the highlights of our time here! There are specific spots throughout the city set up for daily markets, and let me tell you, we are hooked. These markets are where locals get their groceries and seafood, and they feel worlds away from the markets we’re used to back in America. One of our favorite spots so far has been the market at the Liberation tram stop, thus known as the Libération market . It’s at this bustling intersection with the train station just a block away, Tram Line 1 zooming by, La Gare du Sud looming nearby (more on that later!), and several bus lines converging. But the real star of this area is the massive open-air market—it’s the kind of place you imagine when you think of a traditional European market. Pedestrian streets filled with stall after stall, all selling the freshest vegetables, fruits, fish, and meat. No clothes, no knick-knacks, and no trendy cafés trying to sell you pre-made sandwiches—just pure, local