Answer: Choosing between Hilton properties in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area depends on what kind of experience you are looking for as a solo business traveler. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each property:

Answer: If you’re looking for a fun, chef-led date night cooking class in or near Carlsbad, CA, here are several great options to consider. Four adults can definitely make a class feel like a special evening out, whether you're couples or friends. Below are some classes and venues that offer hands-on instruction, good food, and a social / date-night vibe.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed cruise experience! Alaska offers so many unique towns, and it’s great to have a firsthand perspective for planning future trips.

Answer: Hi Mel,

Answer: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are absolutely worth adding even if you cannot secure lodging inside the parks. Mid-September is a great time to visit, as the weather is generally pleasant and the summer crowds have diminished. While staying in the parks would be ideal for early access and convenience, using a nearby town as a base can still allow you to experience the highlights effectively.

Answer: Driving from Cottonwood to West Sedona at night is generally considered safe, but there are a few factors to keep in mind. The route mainly follows Highway 89A, which is a well-maintained two-lane road that winds through Oak Creek Canyon. While the road is paved and clearly marked, it does have curves, elevation changes, and some narrow sections, so extra caution is needed after dark.

Answer: Yes — your plan is absolutely reasonable, and you can comfortably fit Horseshoe Bend into the same day as your 1:40 pm Antelope Canyon tour. With an early departure from Sedona, you’ll have plenty of flexibility on timing.

Answer: Your Inside Passage cruise itinerary is wonderful for those who enjoy scenic views, cultural experiences, and light exploration. Since you prefer easy excursions and limited walking, I’ve highlighted accessible options and nearby towns or activities for each port that can complement your planned excursions.

Answer: Your Alaska land+cruise itinerary looks ambitious but doable for a first-time visit with teenagers. Since you’re focused on glaciers, wildlife, dog sledding, and scenic experiences rather than museums or fishing, here’s a detailed look at optimizing your plan and adding options for Days 6 and 7.

Answer: For a family of four seeking a sunny, affordable getaway near Phoenix over President's Day, focusing on areas like Chandler, Tempe, or the southeastern suburbs can give you better value than Scottsdale while still offering plenty of family-friendly amenities and access to attractions.

Answer: Here’s a detailed plan for a 3-day visit to the Grand Canyon South Rim, starting and ending in Las Vegas, including a stop in Sedona on the way back. This itinerary is designed for a family of four, including two kids aged 10 and 14, and assumes you are driving a rental car.

Answer: When deciding between booking Holland America (HA) day excursions and arranging your own activities in Alaska, there are a number of factors to consider, including convenience, cost, flexibility, and experience quality. Many first-time Alaska cruisers weigh the pros and cons carefully because Alaska ports can be remote and the logistics can be tricky.

Answer: It’s understandably tricky to find a bear-viewing option on Kodiak Island that fits within a $500 per person budget for a one-day shore excursion from a cruise ship, but here’s a summary of what I found and some suggestions.

Answer: Both Arabella and Sky Ranch are well-regarded options in Sedona, and each has its own strengths depending on what you want from your stay.

Answer: If you're trying to avoid the Grapevine and prefer to take side roads for a slower, safer journey while towing an older trailer, there are several routes you can take from the 33/166 to Compton, CA. Here are a few tips and suggestions for your route:

Answer: The image you linked (Tesla Model Y in a desert-like setting, with mountain peaks in the background) is very likely taken in the Alabama Hills, just outside Lone Pine, California, looking toward the Sierra Nevada and Mount Whitney. Here’s a breakdown of how I reached that conclusion and where exactly on a map that viewpoint could be:

Answer: Laguna Beach is a great choice for a 4-day stay with teens, as it offers a combination of beach, shopping, art, and outdoor activities. Since you’re looking for accommodations with 2 bedrooms or separate sleeping spaces, vacation rentals, condos, or boutique hotels with suites are usually the best options.

Answer: Yes, Arizona has historically had agricultural inspection checkpoints on major highways entering the state from California to prevent pests and diseases from spreading, particularly citrus pests and fruit flies. However, the status of these checkpoints can change, and some have been reduced or removed in recent years.

Answer: Good question. Based on available itineraries, the Discovery Princess does dock in San Francisco (NOT Monterey) on its March California coastal sailings. Here’s what the information shows, plus what to watch for.

Answer: Visiting Fairbanks in late March is a great opportunity to see the tail end of winter activities while still enjoying long daylight hours and cold, clear nights ideal for aurora viewing. Here’s some detailed advice regarding the World Ice Art Championships, driving, and aurora self-viewing.

Answer: For a first-time visit to Palm Springs in November, choosing the right place to stay depends on your priorities: quiet, comfort, pools, and ease of access to the Agua Caliente Resort Casino for your concert. Since you’ll have a car, you have flexibility to stay a bit further from the main downtown area and still reach the casino or other attractions easily.

Answer: Your Reno itinerary looks well thought out for a 2.5-day visit, especially given your preferences for city trails, parks, and “shiny” attractions rather than hiking or gambling. Since you sleep late and wake up late, your timing should work well for afternoon and evening activities.

Answer: Short answer: yes—there are several good hotels within an easy, well-lit walk of the San Jose Civic (downtown near the Convention Center) so you and your daughter can reasonably walk to a 6pm show and back around 11pm if you stick to main streets and common-sense safety precautions. That said, $100/night for a downtown San Jose hotel is optimistic most nights; you’ll usually find the best downtown selections in the $140–$250 range, while cheaper rooms under $100–120 are more likely nearer the airport or in farther neighborhoods.

Answer: Catalina Island is a beautiful destination, but it has strict regulations regarding pets, which can limit what you can do with your dog. While well-behaved dogs are welcomed in some areas, much of the island is off-limits to pets, particularly in natural preserves and most hiking trails.

Answer: Napa Valley is primarily known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, but there are several wineries that produce Pinot Grigio or similar lighter whites, which can be refreshing during a September visit. Since you'll be coming down from Mendocino and staying for three nights, you can plan a mix of well-known estates and boutique wineries that showcase Pinot Grigio or other crisp whites.

Answer: Finding a good hotel near the Grand Canyon’s South Rim that is both affordable and comfortable can be tricky, especially with the high demand and mixed reviews for many places. If you’re looking to stay within close proximity to the South Rim for sunset and sunrise views, there are a few options that might meet your needs without the hefty price tag of the in-park accommodations. Here are some suggestions for hotels that could be worth checking out:

Answer: Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier in March can be a bit tricky due to limited shuttle options and potential winter road conditions. The drive is about 60 miles one way along the scenic Seward Highway, which can be icy or snowy in March. Since you’re not planning to rent a car, your options are limited to shuttle services, private transport, or possibly ride-sharing services.

Answer: For a two-night stay in Denali in August, your priority should balance convenience to the park, comfort, and access to restaurants and services. Since you’ll have a rental car and want separate beds, here’s a breakdown of your options and some considerations based on location, price, and overall experience.

Answer: If you’re looking for a Sedona jeep tour that’s engaging without being too bumpy or rough like the Broken Arrow tour, there are several options that provide scenic views, historical insights, and mild off-road experiences suitable for those who prefer comfort over adrenaline.

Answer: For a short stay in Los Angeles with only one full day to explore before taking the Coast Starlight north, it’s best to focus on a few highlights that are accessible without a car. Since you’ll arrive Sunday from LAX, staying near the beach that night is a relaxing option, and then move closer to the Amtrak station (Los Angeles Union Station) for Monday night.

Answer: Sedona is a fantastic destination for a family holiday, with plenty to do for all ages and interests. Since you’ll have a mix of hikers and bikers and a house rental as a base, you can enjoy a flexible itinerary combining shared activities and individual adventures.

Answer: Your story highlights a side of San Francisco that many visitors miss—the warm, personal interactions that make the city feel welcoming and local. While tourists often flock to famous landmarks, neighborhoods like the Castro, Haight, and Hayes Valley have charming spots where you can experience authentic city life and connect with friendly locals.

Answer: For a first-time Grand Canyon trip with kids, a well-paced itinerary that balances scenic stops, short hikes, and unique experiences will make the trip memorable without being exhausting.

Answer: Your plan to drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles in August while exploring Big Sur is generally sensible, but there are a few considerations to maximize your experience and manage driving times safely.

Answer: Scottsdale is a premier golf destination, known for its sunny weather, well-maintained courses, and variety of golfing experiences suitable for all skill levels. Planning a golf-focused trip here is a great idea, whether you’re looking for resort-style courses, championship courses, or scenic desert layouts.

Answer: For a short 2-day visit to San Diego, especially considering limited walking due to orthopedic concerns, Coronado Island is a very suitable destination. The Hotel del Coronado is the main attraction, and it’s manageable to enjoy the area without extensive walking.

Answer: Traveling from Seward to Whittier for a cruise departure requires some planning, as there isn’t a direct public transport line connecting the two towns. Most travelers route through Anchorage, but there are a few options to consider.

Answer: Attending your first NFL game is exciting! Here’s a detailed breakdown for your visit to the San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals game on September 21st.

Answer: Using Uber or Lyft from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Tucson is feasible, but there are a few considerations to ensure a smooth trip. The distance is roughly 115–120 miles, so fares are higher than typical city rides and the drive takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Answer: It is definitely possible to visit both Death Valley National Park and Joshua Tree National Park within 3 days, but it will require some driving and careful planning to make the most of your time. The two parks are not extremely close to each other, so you’ll need to factor in travel time between the two. However, if you're comfortable with driving and want to maximize your experience, it can be done. Here's a suggested itinerary for your trip:

Answer: For a family trip to the Grand Canyon in April with young kids, both Phoenix and Las Vegas are common entry points, but the choice depends on convenience, driving time, and what you want to see along the way.

Answer: Both the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia and the Arizona Biltmore offer excellent spa experiences, but they do have different atmospheres and strengths. Since you're pairing a massage with a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, choosing the right order and location can make your half-day smooth and relaxing.

Answer: Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site, near Haines, is indeed one of the more reliable spots for bear viewing in mid-July, as salmon are often running and bears congregate along the streams and lake edges to feed. The park’s proximity to the Golden Circle route means it’s a relatively small detour, but as you noted, accommodations are limited along that stretch, so planning logistics is important.

Answer: Monument Valley is an iconic landscape on the Arizona-Utah border, famous for its red sandstone buttes, mesas, and cultural significance to the Navajo Nation. Tours are the primary way to access much of the valley beyond the main viewing areas, and while many tours cover similar routes, experiences can vary depending on the guide, timing, and type of tour.

Answer: In Alaska, the transition from winter to summer is gradual, but there are some telltale signs that locals watch for to know that winter is officially over.

Answer: It sounds like you’re planning an exciting trip to California, and I’d be happy to help! Traveling by public transport in California, especially between cities like LA and San Francisco, is definitely doable and can be a great experience. Here are some tips to help make your journey as smooth as possible:

Answer: Driving from Santa Barbara to Yosemite National Park offers several scenic options, depending on whether you prioritize speed, scenery, or points of interest along the way. In May, most of Yosemite’s main roads are open, but some higher elevation routes may still have snow, so it’s good to check road conditions before you leave.

Answer: Your one-week Arizona itinerary looks very doable and nicely balanced, especially since you want to focus on scenic viewpoints and minimal hiking. It offers a mix of iconic landscapes, cultural experiences, and relaxation time at the end, which is perfect for a shorter trip.

Answer: If you’re looking to watch the Wisconsin Badgers basketball game in Sedona on the night of March 4, there are a few spots that are known for showing college sports games and providing a good atmosphere. Sedona is a smaller town, so options are more limited than in a big city, but you can still find places that cater to sports fans.

Answer: The Amtrak Surfliner route from Los Angeles to San Diego is generally a smooth and scenic trip along the Southern California coast. Some tickets include a “bus bridge” section in the middle, usually due to track maintenance or construction, where passengers are transferred to a bus for part of the journey.

Answer: Hi Andy,

Answer: For a birdwatching-focused visit to San Diego in early December, you’ll want a base that’s quiet, safe, and convenient for driving to various birding hotspots, while still offering some nearby services and restaurants. Since you’ll have a rental car, access to parking is an important consideration, but proximity to peaceful neighborhoods is equally key.

Answer: It is not standard or necessary to carry a firearm while hiking in Grand Canyon, Zion, or Bryce Canyon. Mountain lions (cougars) are present in these parks, but encounters with humans are extremely rare. Most visitors hike safely without firearms.

Answer: For a two-game baseball trip in Southern California involving both the Angels in Anaheim and the Dodgers in Los Angeles, it makes sense to choose a hotel that is reasonably central to both stadiums while allowing you flexibility in travel. Southern California traffic can be heavy, so location and transportation planning are key.

Answer: Your planned Friday evening in LA is technically doable, but it will be a bit tight, especially considering traffic, luggage pickup, and getting your rental car. LAX traffic in May, even around 5-7 pm, can be heavy, so allow for possible delays. Here’s a breakdown of your plan:

Answer: Palm Springs, located in the California desert, generally has a low mosquito population, especially when compared to more humid regions. The arid climate, high temperatures, and low rainfall during August make it less hospitable for mosquitoes. However, there are a few situations where you might encounter them:

Answer: The Hurricane Turn Train is a popular and scenic way to experience Alaska's wilderness, and it's great that you're considering it during your trip. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect and some considerations for your journey:

Answer: Newport Beach offers several hotels that are within walking distance of the Main Street area, making it convenient to enjoy shopping, dining, and ferry access to Balboa Island. Since you are looking for something in the mid-range — not budget, but not ultra-luxury — there are a few good options.

Answer: The Northern California Redwoods are spectacular, and it’s great that you’re dedicating time to explore them properly. For a family of five wanting to hike and enjoy the scenery, 3–4 full days is an ideal minimum to do justice to the area without feeling rushed.

Answer: When planning a trip from San Francisco to Napa Valley, the timing of your arrival and winery hours is an important consideration. Since most Napa wineries close by late afternoon (typically 4:30–5:00 PM), arriving in the late afternoon after a flight can make it difficult to fit in tastings on your first day.

Answer: Your itinerary is very well thought out for two families with kids ages 7–10. It balances travel time, sightseeing, and kid-friendly activities nicely. The sequence from Anchorage to Seward, then Girdwood, and back to Anchorage is practical and avoids long consecutive driving days, which is especially important with children.

Answer: Thank you for your question about rock-slide impacts in Skagway, Alaska, especially regarding the walkway from the cruise port area into town.

Answer: It sounds like you've already explored some amazing parts of Arizona, and you're looking to dive deeper into Phoenix and its surrounding neighborhoods! There's a lot to offer in terms of nightlife, dining, and pool clubs, so here are some great recommendations for your upcoming trip:

Answer: For a family trip along California’s Central Coast, the choices you’ve outlined each offer unique experiences. Since you have two adults and two kids (8 and 10), it’s worth balancing scenic drives with kid-friendly stops and activities.

Answer: Your Northern California road trip along US-395 north and Highway 101 south sounds fantastic! Since you’ll have your first two nights covered in Mammoth and Portola, here are some suggestions for nice places to stay between Portola and Salem, focusing on comfort, scenic surroundings, and resort-style amenities where possible.

Answer: Tucson has a rich culinary scene, especially when it comes to Mexican cuisine, given its history and proximity to the border. Since you’re coming from Chicago and are used to great Mexican food, you’ll want authentic flavors with regional Sonoran influences. Tucson even has UNESCO recognition as a City of Gastronomy, so you’re in for a treat!

Answer: The area around the new TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Downtown San Jose (near Josefa St and San Carlos) is generally considered an urban downtown setting. As with many downtown areas, safety can vary block by block, but in general, this section is reasonably safe for visitors who plan to stay in their hotel and avoid wandering late at night.

Answer: If you are planning to visit Page, Arizona over the 4th of July weekend, there are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience at Horseshoe Bend and nearby attractions.

Answer: For a one-week trip during Christmas week landing in Phoenix, planning your route efficiently can save a lot of driving time and give you more time to enjoy each location. Considering your destinations—Sedona, Joshua Tree National Park, and Palm Springs—here is a breakdown.

Answer: For a first-time visit to San Francisco, especially as a family with older teens, choosing the right neighborhood is important for safety, convenience, and access to public transportation.

Answer: If your goal is to stay near the beach in the Los Angeles area and enjoy biking, you have several excellent options. Southern California beach towns are generally very bike-friendly, with dedicated bike paths along the coast and plenty of bike rental options.

Answer: Your San Francisco itinerary looks well thought out, but grouping activities by neighborhood and transportation can help maximize your time and reduce back-and-forth travel. Staying at the Axiom Hotel in Union Square is ideal for accessing many attractions via walking, Muni buses, or cable cars.

Answer: Thanks for asking about visiting Matanuska Glacier near Anchorage. You’re wise to weigh the “drive yourself + explore” vs. “tour company” option. I’ll walk you through the pros and cons and give you recommended tour companies so you can decide which suits your style and energy level.

Answer: San Francisco has some excellent seafood restaurants with stunning views of the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the waterfront. For a high-end lunch experience, you’ll want a place that combines fresh seafood, great service, and a memorable setting. Here are some top options to consider:

Answer: Visiting the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess during the week after Christmas and over New Year can be a beautiful experience, but it is important to keep in mind that this is one of the peak holiday periods in Scottsdale. The hotel’s “Christmas at the Princess” event typically continues through early January, which means the property will still have festive decorations, activities, and possibly additional crowds from families enjoying the holiday season.

Answer: For a first-time visit to Alaska, especially if your goal is to see glaciers and enjoy hiking in nature, the southern coastal region of Alaska is generally the most accessible and rewarding. This area includes places like Anchorage, Seward, Whittier, and Juneau, along with nearby national parks and glaciers.

Answer: For visitors in the Phoenix area looking for accessible ruins and petroglyphs without extensive hiking, there are several excellent options within about an hour’s drive. Since your husband has limited mobility, the focus will be on sites with paved or mostly flat paths and visitor facilities.

Answer: Driving from Seattle to Anchorage over a week is ambitious but absolutely doable if you plan carefully. The route generally follows the Alaska Highway via British Columbia and the Yukon, with some scenic detours along the way. This is a long-distance road trip with stretches of remote wilderness, so planning fuel stops and accommodation in advance is important.

Answer: With just one day in Tucson, you’ll want to focus on a mix of iconic sights, cultural experiences, and easy access activities. Tucson is rich in desert scenery, history, and Southwestern charm, so you can have a memorable day even with limited time.

Answer: The Gondwana Eco Tour Northern Lights Adventure is a specialized package aimed at giving visitors a chance to experience the aurora borealis in a more intimate and guided setting. While I couldn’t find personal reviews for every traveler, here’s a detailed overview of what such tours typically offer and what you can expect.

Answer: San Diego’s MTS transit system is relatively straightforward, and your understanding is mostly correct. Here’s a detailed breakdown of your questions regarding fares, ticket purchases, and validity:

Answer: For a short 3-4 day trip in September focused on wildlife, photography, and short hikes, Alaska offers several excellent options that maximize your chances of seeing moose and other wildlife amidst stunning fall foliage. Since you’re renting a car, prioritizing areas with scenic drives and accessible hikes is ideal.

Answer: Your proposed 7-night pre-cruise Alaska itinerary is ambitious but feasible, provided you are comfortable with a tightly scheduled trip and potential weather-related adjustments. The sequence you outlined—Denali, Seward, Homer/Lake Clark, Anchorage—is logical and allows you to hit several major National Park areas efficiently.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed trip report! It’s a fantastic example of how to structure an Arizona trip with young children while balancing sightseeing, driving, and downtime. Your approach of using driving time for naps and pacing activities according to your kids’ energy levels is especially helpful for families with toddlers.

Answer: Finding a very specific small whale watching operator in Sitka from 10 years ago can be tricky, especially if the business was a single-operator or family-run venture. The reference to a “6-passenger boat” and an octopus logo suggests it was a small, personalized tour company rather than a large commercial outfit.

Answer: The Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game in Pasadena are extremely popular events with massive crowds and significant road closures. Driving and parking can be very challenging, so careful planning is essential. For your needs—seeing the parade, visiting decorating sites, and attending the bowl game—there are several transportation options to consider.

Answer: Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland Hotel is extremely popular, and reservations typically open 60 days in advance for Disneyland Resort hotel guests. If you’ve missed that window, it can be challenging to secure a table, especially on a Saturday, which is one of the busiest days.

Answer: Hi — yes, your plan is very doable! A 2-week road trip from LAX (or starting / ending via San Diego) that includes Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Carmel/Monterey, and optionally Palm Springs or San Diego is a great loop. There are a few things to watch for, especially given the recent wildfire situation, plus some smart routing and timing tips. Here’s a breakdown of how you might put it together, plus pros / cons and recommendations.

Answer: Bear viewing trips in Alaska, particularly in remote areas like Lake Clark National Park, can be quite expensive due to the specialized equipment, guides, and small group sizes required. Finding ways to save, such as using discounts or coupons, can make these trips more accessible.

Answer: DineLA is an annual event in Los Angeles, typically held twice a year, where participating restaurants across the city offer special prix-fixe menus at discounted rates. The event aims to encourage both locals and visitors to explore a variety of dining experiences, ranging from high-end Michelin-recognized restaurants to popular casual spots.

Answer: Good question. No — Muir Woods is *not* completely “open without tickets” right now. While the park itself is operating, you do need a reservation for parking (or shuttle) in order to visit.

Answer: It sounds like you had a very frustrating experience with 24-7 RIDE at LAX, and unfortunately, what you described is not uncommon with some airport transportation services that use dynamic pricing or hidden fees. Here’s a detailed breakdown and guidance for avoiding similar situations and addressing your issue:

Answer: Visiting Juneau, the capital of Alaska, from a cruise ship can be a rewarding experience, as the city is compact and offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your port stop:

Answer: Great question. Both Muir Woods and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offer wonderful redwood-tree experiences, but they feel quite different — and given your trip logistics (starting in SF, ending in Monterey), one might be more practical or meaningful for your exchange student. Here’s a breakdown of each, plus pros and trade-offs, and my recommendation.

Answer: Spending two nights at the Grand Canyon gives you a great opportunity to enjoy both the views and some of the park’s activities without feeling rushed. Since this was your third visit, you’re likely familiar with the basic viewpoints and trails, so you can focus on revisiting favorites or exploring areas you may have missed previously.

Answer: Finding one-night stays in Calistoga can be a bit challenging, especially on weekends, as many hotels and resorts enforce 2–3 night minimums. However, there are several options that may work for a shorter visit, particularly mid-week or by booking directly with smaller inns or boutique properties.

Answer: It appears the original post was removed at the author’s request, so there is no specific content to respond to regarding a January road trip around Phoenix. However, I can provide general guidance for a winter road trip in the Phoenix area, which may help if you are planning one.

Answer: Given your schedule, driving from San Francisco to Yosemite and then on to Tenaya Lodge, you’re looking at roughly a 4–5 hour drive including breaks. Arriving at Yosemite Valley around 12:30–1 PM means you’ll hit the park in the middle of the afternoon, which is usually a busier time, especially near popular viewpoints and parking areas.

Answer: With only four days in Arizona and a teenager along for the trip, your main consideration should be balancing travel time with quality experiences. Both Sedona and the Grand Canyon are spectacular, but the logistics can make doing both in a short window a bit rushed.

Answer: Your planned itinerary for Yosemite in September looks well-structured, and it should allow you to see the main highlights without feeling overly rushed. Since September is shoulder season, the crowds are smaller than in summer, but parking can still be a challenge, so planning is important.