Los Angeles is a great city with lots of things to do and plenty of restaurants to keep you satisfied. Here are some of the restaurants for you to try while you are in the area.

Anna’s Italian Restaurant is one that offers a traditional Italian fare in West Los Angeles. New dishes are introduced every year since inception and the menu is still growing.

Also, Bamboo Restaurant serves Caribbean cuisine for lunch and dinner. This is the place to go if you want to try something new and get the feel for the Caribbean atmosphere.

Casa is another option that is owned by Chef Kris Morningstar who prepares seasonal Mexican dishes in a modern hacienda setting. This has been reviewed as a great option in which the chefs take pride of each and every creation.

Chez Nous is a joint which serves French cuisine. The scene is intimate while maintaining an open and airy feel with an added sophistication for an overall sparkling ambiance.

The Cielito Lindo is home of the original world famous taquitos with guacamole sauce. This delicious place is located on Historic Olvera Street.

Clifton’s Cafeteria is another option. At Clifton’s, most all of the food served is prepared from scratch.

They buy the finest quality ingredients and use time tested recipes to produce what they feel is the best “comfort food” in town. Ala carte pricing allows you to customize your meal to satisfy your own personal taste.

Dinah’s Family Restaurant is the place to go for home cooked goods. They have delectable oven baked pancakes, fried chicken and other favorites.

The Emporium Thai Cuisine welcomes you to experience the ultimate Thai cuisines. They offer catering and delivery of all their Thai specialties, as well as Japanese and Chinese options.

Koutoubia is a restaurant that offers traditional Moroccan cuisine and belly dancing at the same time. You can check online for more information; you can take a video tour, menu and driving directions.

La Louisianne Restaurant is one where jazz music plays nightly at the La Louisianne, while guests dine in an inviting atmosphere. Dinner with live music can transform an ordinary evening out into a wonderful event that you will remember.

Langer’s Delicatessen serves a wide variety of classic delicatessen fare with excellent service and unmatched quality. They are best known for their hot pastrami sandwiches, which have been created from the finest beef available and steamed at precise temperatures for hours to achieve a world famous tenderness and flavor that cannot be beat.

Las Anitas is located on Olvera Street and offers home style Mexican cooking served in the Historic Italian Hall. Since 1947, it has been serving up delicious dishes.

Matteo’s is another fine dining restaurant that has the option of a more casual atmosphere in the cafe. This establishment is appropriate for any mood you may be in or appetite you may have.

Noe Restaurant is a progressive American cuisine married with a Japanese aesthetic. This is a beautiful place that you and your family are sure to enjoy.

The Overland Cafe is a cozy neighborhood cafe that has been serving the community for over 28 years. They pride themselves on serving “food you can pronounce at prices you can afford.”

Some of their favorites include New Orleans Chicken and Shrimp, Barbecued Ribs and Fresh Fish as well as Garden Fresh Salads, Fresh Pasta and a variety of Vegetarian Dishes. This is a relaxed atmosphere with great taste that you and your family will not want to miss out on.

For another Spanish option, try Paco’s Tacos. This casual Mexican establishment features a vast expanse of tables in a lively interior festooned with crepe paper streamers and fiesta decorations.

Large fish tanks add even more color to the mix. In addition to burritos and customary combo plates, there is a bevy of meat and seafood selections and fresh tortillas prepared before your very eyes.

Rahel Veggie Cuisine is the place to go for vegan versions of classic Ethiopian wots, or stews, on teff injera, the sourdough flat bread. You could also try Shamshiri Grill which features Persian and vegan dishes for lunch and dinner.

No matter what your taste, there is a restaurant for you in Los Angeles. Do not just try one; see them all if you can.

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends things to do in LA.

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Terry Daniels
TerryDaniels09@gmail.com
www.thingstodo.com

San Francisco is a versatile area in California. Here are some of the popular things to do in the area.

The California Academy of Sciences is the chance to immerse yourself in the world’s oceans and fresh water environments displayed in Steinhart Aquarium which includes a two story coral reef tank. Here, you can discover the wonders of the natural world through changing natural history exhibits.

The Academy is open to the public at 875 Howard Street in downtown San Francisco during its rebuilding project in Golden Park which is scheduled to be completed in the year 2008. This is a fun activity for the whole family.

The Lawrence Hall of Science is another option located at the University of California, Berkeley which offers a fun family center featuring hands on exhibits, events, classes and summer camps, workshops, labs and planetary shows. This is a fun and exciting interactive place to learn and grow.

The Hall of Health is sponsored by Children’s Hospital Oakland and is a community health education museum and science center that is dedicated to promoting wellness and individual responsibility for health. This is yet another great learning opportunity.

The San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) provides transportation to all points of interest within San Francisco. The Muni system operates both diesel and electric trolley buses, historic streetcars and the world famous Cable Cars.

The Phoebe A. Hearst Museum of Anthropology is a chance to explore the diversity of human cultures from the state of California and around the world. You can visit this fabulous experience at the University of California, Berkeley.

Also in Berkeley, the Art Museum is located at the University of California and is particularly noted for its collection of the late twentieth century art. If you enjoy the arts, this is a fine stop for you to make along your way through San Francisco.

The University of California Botanical Garden is located in Strawberry Canyon above the Berkeley campus overlooking the San Francisco Bay. The Garden features one of the most diverse plant collections in the United States, and the Garden’s 34 acres contain over 13,000 species and more than 21, 000 plants from all over the world arranged by region.

Old Faithful Geyser of Napa Valley California is a spectacular, nature directed performance. The stage is walled by thick bamboo and plumed pampas grass which appears as an innocent pool of shallow water until time for the major attraction.

Uprising stream and bubbling hot water announce the geyser. Then, while Mount Saint Helena and the craggy Palisades mountains stand silent as backdrops, Old Faithful Geyser of California throws a tower of thousands of gallons of water skyward.

Sharpsteen Museum has permanent exhibits that are designed to present the history of the upper Napa Valley from its pre history to post World War I with an emphasis on people and changes brought by the period of United States emigration and development. If this sounds interesting to you, you should check it out while you are in California.

The Roaring Camp Railroads are deep in the heart of the magnificent redwood forests of California’s scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, south of San Francisco and north of the beautiful Monterey Bay is America’s last steam-powered passenger railroad with year round passenger train service. The historic Railroad is a great way to travel.

The NASA-Ames Research Center is an exhibit hall where the public is invited to come see and experience firsthand NASA’s historic accomplishments and ongoing research. There are many artifacts on display including wind tunnel models, a Mercury spacecraft, a Moon Rock, a space suit and several research aircrafts.

Ongoing research programs are highlighted with displays, models and interactive computer software. This is a fun place for the whole family.

Blue & Gold Fleet is the Bay Area’s largest provider of ferry and water excursion services. It is the exclusive provider of tours to Alcatraz under concession to the National Park Service; they also offer a range of cruises including spectacular Bay Cruises, ferries to Sausalito, Tiburon, Alameda/Oakland, Vallejo and Angel Island.

The Lick Observatory is the University of California’s and conducts leading edge research to answer the most profound questions in observational astronomy. It is open to daytime visitors nearly every day of the year where they can enjoy a brief guided tour of the Great Lick Refractor in the main Observatory building.

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends things to do in San Francisco.

Contact Info:

Terry Daniels
TerryDaniels09@gmail.com
www.thingstodo.com

Kauai, also known as Taua’I in the ancient dialect, is the oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands. With an area of 562.3 square miles, it is the fourth largest of the main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago and the 21st largest island in the United States.

It is also sometimes called the “Garden Isle” because it lies 105 miles across the Kauai Channel and northwest of Oahu. It is the site of Waimea Canyon State Park.

In the 2000 census, the population of the island was 58,303. There is no known meaning behind the name Kauai, but native Hawaiian tradition indicates the name’s origin in the legend of Hawaiiloa - the Polynesian navigator attributed with discovering the Hawaiian Islands.

The story tells the tale of how he named the island of Kauai after a favorite son. Therefore, a possible translation of the word is to “place around the neck” as in how a father would carry a favorite child; another possible translation is “food season.”

Kauai was known for its distinct dialect of the Hawaiian language before it went extinct there. The standard language today is based on the dialect of Hawaii Island, the Kauai dialect was known for pronouncing a “k” as a “t”.

Consequently, the island’s dialect retained the old pan-Polynesian “t” while standard Hawaiian dialect has innovated and changed it to the glottal stop. Therefore, the native name for the island was Tauai, and the major settlement of Kapaa would have been called Tapaa.

Kauai’s origins are volcanic, and the highest peak on this mountainous island is Kawaikini at 5,243 feet. The second highest peak is Mount Wai’ale’ale near the center of the island, 5,148 feet above sea level.

This is one of the wettest spots on earth with an annual average rainfall of 460 inches; it is located on the east side of Mount Wai’ale’ale. The high annual rainfall has eroded deep valleys in the central mountains, carving out canyons with many scenic waterfalls.

On the west side of the island, Waimea town is located at the mouth of the Waimea River, whose flow formed Waimea Canyon, one of the world’s most scenic canyons which is part of Waimea Canyon State Park. At 3,000feet deep, the canyon is often referred to as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

The Na Pali Coast is a center for recreation in a wild setting, including kayaking past the beaches or hiking on the trail along the coastal cliffs. During the reign of King Kamehameha, the islands of Kauai and Niihau were the last Hawaiian Islands to join his Kingdom of Hawaii.

Their ruler, Kaumaulii, resisted Kamehameha for years. King Kamehameha twice prepared a huge armada of ships and canoes to take the islands by force, but twice failed. Once it was due to a storm and the second time, it was due to an epidemic.

In the face of the threat of a further invasion, however, Kaumaulii decided to join the kingdom without bloodshed and became Kamehameha’s vassal in the year 1810, ceding the island to the Kingdom of Hawaii upon his death in 1824. In 1815 until 1817, Kaumaulii led secret negotiations with representatives of the Russian-American Company in an attempt to gain Russia’s military help against Kamehameha.

However, the negotiations folded and the Russians were forced to abandon all of their presence in Kauai, including Fort Elizabeth, after it was revealed that they did not have the support of Tsar Alexander I.

Currently, Tourism is the island’s largest industry. In 2007, 1,271,000 visitors came to the island; the two largest groups were from the United States and Japan.

As of 2003, there were a total of approximately 27,000 jobs there of which the largest sector was accommodation- food services followed by government and retail. Next are agriculture and educational services.

As far as income is concerned, the various sectors that constitute the visitors industry accounted for one third of their income. On the other hand, employment is dominated by small businesses, with 87% of all nonfarm businesses having fewer than 20 employees.

As of 2003, Kauai’s unemployment rate was 3.9% compared to 3% for the entire state and 5.7% for the United States as a whole. Furthermore, the area’s poverty rate was 10.5% compared to the state’s which is 10.7%.

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends things to do in Hawaii.

Contact Info:

Terry Daniels
TerryDaniels09@gmail.com
www.thingstodo.com

One thing the state of Colorado is known for is its many opportunities for outdoor recreation. The region is very diverse with its range of mountains, plateaus, canyons and plains.

Whether you are visiting in the summer or the winter, there is always some type of outdoor activity to participate in. One activity Colorado is known for is its whitewater rafting.

Home to over 18 rivers, there are plenty of opportunities for this outdoor sport. If you are looking for a mild rafting trip you may want to check out parts of the Colorado River or the Gunnison River.

For bigger and more intense rapids, you may be interested in the Arkansas River, the Taylor River or the Clear Creek River. With so many options of rivers, there is definitely a rafting trip for everyone.

This state is also home to many national parks. A few worth mentioning and visiting are Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Starting with Mesa Verde National Park, this park features some of the most unique Ancestral Puebloan dwellings in the world. The dwellings are well preserved and very interesting to explore.

Visitors are able to enter the cliff dwellings to learn more about these adobe homes. Next is the Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Here guests will find some of the tallest sand dunes in North America. The tallest dune in the park is 750 feet high.

Also at this park are plenty of opportunities for four wheeling and hiking. The Rocky Mountain National Park is home to tall mountains, lakes and streams.

It is a beautiful park which also features thick evergreen forests and acres of wildlife. The last park is Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

This narrow gorge features sheer black walls. The gorge continues for 53 miles and offers a variety of activities including camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, wildlife viewing and more.

It is also a great place to take a scenic drive. After visiting the national parks you may be interested in visiting one of Colorado’s state parks.

With over 40 to choose from, there is something for everyone. A few of the parks are lakes or reservoirs.

Barr Lake is fun to visit because it is home to over 300 species of birds. It is also an excellent spot for boating or fishing.

Lake Pueblo is one of the more popular lakes in the area. With great fishing waters and prime camping spots, it is perfect for the whole family.

A large draw is the swimming beach which features a five story waterslide. Another great beach to visit is at Jackson Lake.

Chatfield and Cherry Creek are two reservoirs which are fun for sailing, fishing, boating and sandy beaches. You could also take a hike or go biking at these reservoirs.

A few canyons that may be of interest are Eldorado Canyon, Castlewood Canyon, and Golden Gate Canyon. Eldorado is a great place for rock climbing.

It also features amazing panoramic views and has spots for picnicking along the stream. Castlewood has interesting, dramatic canyon walls and is a site to see.

Golden Gate Canyon is a fun spot to camp and hike in its dense forests and beautiful meadows. One last state park worth mentioning is Rifle Falls.

This lush area features a majestic, triple waterfall. Having a picnic by the falls is a very popular activity.

There are also caves beneath the falls which can be interesting to explore. The fun doesn’t stop there, what about winter activities in Colorado?

With about 40 skiing and snowboarding spots, you are sure to find something to do during those cold winter months. Some of the more popular skiing areas are Aspen Mountain, Winter Park, Vail, Beaver Creek, and Copper Mountain.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, visitors can also relax at the lodge and just enjoy the mountain views. A few other popular outdoor activities in Colorado include hot air ballooning, geocaching, and simply walking and enjoying the fresh air.

As you can see, there is so much to do in Colorado. It is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or typical tourists.

You are sure to have a great time. Enjoy the outdoors in this beautiful, diverse state!

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends things to do in Colorado.

Contact Info:

Terry Daniels
TerryDaniels09@gmail.com
www.thingstodo.com

The beautiful, tropical islands of Hawaii are always a popular spot to visit. Many go to relax on the beach or to experience the culture of this lush state.

But did you know Hawaii also hosts many events throughout the year? If you are planning a trip there you may want to keep on reading.

This article will give you an idea of the best events that take place each year in Hawaii. Starting in January visitors will enjoy watching the Annual Stan Cann Classic.

This event is a surfski canoe race which takes place at Hilo Bay. It is sure to be interesting to watch.

Also in January is the Hula Kahiko Series. Watch the hula and other cultural dances that have been passed down for generations.

These presentations are free and take place at the Volcanoes National Park. In February have a great time celebrating Chinese New Year with food, crafts, lion dances and entertainment.

The big event takes place at Kalakaua Park. Waimea is a great place to visit in February because it hosts a Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival and a Town Celebration.

Both events have food, entertainment and unique attractions. March is home of the annual Tahiti Fete of Hilo which features some of the best Tahitian dancing in the area.

Also during March is the Stampede Rodeo. It is a free event and has take place each year on the Big Island for more than 35 years.

April is a fun time to visit because you can attend the Merrie Monarch Festival. This week long event features many festivities and hula dancing competitions.

The fest ends in a parade. In May something unique happens called the Annual Dolphin Convention.

Hundreds of dolphins gather and put on a show each first week of May. May also hosts the Orchid Show, which features many beautiful orchids.

In June plenty happens including the King Kamehameha Day Celebration Floral Parade, the Taste of Hawaii, the International Festival of the Pacific, and the Annual Waiki’i Music Festival. Heading into July celebrate Independence Day by attending the Concert in the Sky on the Big Island.

This festivity includes fireworks, food and entertainment. Also during the Fourth of July is the Parker Ranch Rodeo near the town of Waimea.

In August you may want to look into visiting the Puukohola Heiau Cultural Festival in Kawaihae. This event includes hulas, lei making and other traditional activities.

In August you will not want to miss the Aloha Festival. It takes place all over the state during the summer months and heads to the Big Island in August.

The event has a parade and a large block party with dancing, food, crafts and entertainment. October is a happening month with the International Jazz Festival, the Pumpkin Picking Patch at Aloun Farms, and the Hana Lei and Floral Show.

In November you can attend Hawaii’s oldest food festival, the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. This event attracts many visitors and has been taking place for over 30 years.

Also in November is the Vanc Triple Crown of Surfing, which is the most successful surfing series in the world. Take some time out to watch these amazing competitions on Oahu’s North Shore.

Lastly in November is the World Invitational Hula Festival. Celebrate Hawaiian culture as this traditional dance is performed and judged.

An event that also takes place each year during the fall is the Ironman World Championships. Some of the best tri-athletes in the world compete in this event.

Lastly enjoy December in Hawaii by checking out the Honolulu Marathon. Also in December is the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, where a ceremony is held and a fleet band performs.

The last events of December take place on New Year’s Eve. Start out the day by checking out the Traditional Mochi Pounding for New Year, which is a sweet paste that is prepared and eaten for a sweet new year.

There are also other activities to help celebrate throughout the day. That night enjoy fireworks at the Aloha Tower Marketplace.

As you can see, so many events take place each year in Hawaii. No matter what month you go, there is always something to attend.

Enjoy your trip. You are sure to have a fabulous time!

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends things to do in Hawaii.

Contact Info:

Terry Daniels
TerryDaniels09@gmail.com
www.thingstodo.com