Events Around The World

Shows	Attractions
Exciting Attractions In The United States
Arizona
Grand Canyon	With nearly five million visitors a year the Grand Canyon remains one of the most popular vacation spots in the United States today. The most visited spot in the canyon is the South Rim where you'll fine the Grand Canyon Village which is open year around.
Lake Powell
California
Alameda Flea Market	Get your walking shoes and a cart together for the 1^st Sunday of every month at the old Alameda Navel Air Station where the flea market roars to life at 6 AM. All the items for sale (except the food) is supposed to be at least 25 years old. Equal to the famous Pasadena Rose Bowl flea market, there are plenty of unique treasures to choose from with over 800 antique dealers!. For more information on hours, entrance fees, details and maps visit http://www.antiquesbybay.com
Bodie Ghost Town	This is a California State park that is way cool, sitting at 9000 ft. elevation and 13 miles down a dirt road off Hwy 395 on the eastern side of the Sierras, you can wander around a real ghost town and get a feel for what life must have been like in 1850. It must have taken little Joe a week to get Carson City, Nevada, but you can drive it from Bodie in an hour. Take lots of water (it’s very dry- even in winter). Only maps and books are available for purchase. There is NO food or water available. .
Bonfonte Gardens	Bonfonte Gardens, now called Gilroy Gardens in Gilroy, California (yes, the garlic capital of the world) has everything (except garlic) in odd plant and tree life. This is a destination if you: 1) have small children 2) are interested in unusual trees and plants and 3) wondered how to tie a tree into a knot.
Clear Lake	In its heyday in the 1950’s this lake and the surrounding towns seem stuck in time. The perimeter of the lake is dotted with little motels and campgrounds like the one’s that would have visited by Wally and the Beave. Most notably is Knocti Harbor Resort and inn which has a great amphitheatre that gets some big talent for a small venue theater.
Cline Cellars	Ever go to wine country just to go? I don’t really drink wine, but lots of wineries have other attractions, Cline Winery is a great stop, not only for the great wine but there is a museum of all the California Missions (actual models) and the history of them. This stop is a must for school kids, especially when they are preparing their California Mission Report. The grounds are beautiful. Check out the Blog on Sonoma Wine Country
Columbia State Park	Columbia State Park is a California Gold Country 1849 type park where the state made the whole town a park. There are no cars, just horses, wagons and foot traffic. Plenty of parking for cars and RVs and a very short walk to town, You’ll find candy stores, restaurants, clothing, and kitchen ware stores or get your photo taken with an old fashioned costume. Stores are open and the 1849 theme is alive and well. There are several museums, including an active blacksmith shop.
Death Valley	Death Valley, Ca. What can be said… don’t go in the summer and take plenty of water any time you go. The desert has a beauty to it and there is a lot to explore. There’s even Scottie’s Castle (big house really) that has an interesting story.
Disney Land	It’s Disneyland, and you’ve got to see it sometime. Every kid alive from 1 to 100+ years need to enjoy the magic of Disneyland at least once in their lives. Take lots of $$ and all the kids (all ages), everything is clean, fun and crowded. It’s best to go when school is in and I think California adventure is the best of the two
Featherbed Railroad	Enjoy breakfast at the Featherbed Railroad Company in the morning after you spend the night in a remodeled rail car. Wake up to the breeze of fresh mountain air and then take in all the scenery of the surrounding mountains.. Great get away for newlyweds or couples just wanting to get away for the weekend.
Giant Redwoods	Native only to the northern coast of California the coastal redwoods are the tallest trees in the world. These trees are awesome. Some are 300 ft high and as big around as 12 feet in diameter. The Giant Redwood Trees can be found easily in Parks like Big Basin or on the “Avenue of the Giants” a 31 mile stretch of old highway 101. Yes, there are trees so large, you can drive through them. Check out the sleepy town of Myers Flat for meals and accommodations
Golden Gate Bridge	The Golden Gate Bridge is known as the Gateway to the West. There is a spot to park (on either side) and you can walk (no jumping off allowed) across. (There are about 23 jumpers per year). On a clear day, you get a great view of San Francisco and the Marin Headlands. Wanna drive over the bridge? Get ready to hand over $ 6 for the toll and if you have more than two axles, it’s more.
Hearst Castle	This sprawling mansion and ground were once the home and playground to William Randolph Hearst, the newspaper tycoon. Located on the coast of California, this state park is a site to see with the home, (okay mega mansion) complete as it was with furniture and artifacts from all over the world, as it were in the early 1900’s
Jacuzzi	No, the grapes don’t get to spa before being crushed. This is a great winery that looks as if it were transplanted from Italy. It has a huge courtyard and great gift store. The Olive Press shares part of this space. They specialize in Olive oil and through the window of the production facility you can see how Olive Oil is produced You can taste the many different types of olive oil and even I could tell the difference.
Mojave Desert	Mojave Desert is just your plain ordinary old sandy desert with cactus and critters rustling about. The photos are of what looks like a train wreck (old trestles) dumped in the desert outside the town of Mojave.
Myers Flat	This a wide spot in the road (Avenue of the Giants) with a great hotel (Myers Inn) , market and my favorite, a bar were the locals are friendly and there is (was) a box of free kittens on the pool table for the taking. Get a free kitten with every second drink. A fun spot to spend the night and a short drive from the San Francisco Bay Area, Myers Flat is in the Giant Redwoods on The Avenue of the Giants.
Outdoor World	Now a retail store would not really warrant a spot in a website like postcardjourneys.com but we have a soft spot and a real liking to all things “Theme”. So these stores are a site to see, even if you are not an outdoorsman (person), this one is in the Manteca, Tracy area of Northern California Central Valley. We understand that all their stores are “themed” to the local flora, fauna and wildlife .
Old Sacramento	The State Capital of California this dynamic town is host to a lot more than the California State fair. Sacramento is home to such attractions as Olde Town Sacramento a historic area with a 1^st rate railroad museum, great restaurants , shops, etc. all with an old west theme.
Scottie's Castle	Scottie's Castle is located just a stone’s throw from 1) the hottest place on earth 2) the lowest place on earth and 3) the bleakest hottest …you get the Idea. If you love desert housing then you’ve got to see this. It’s on the edge of Death Valley and quite an oasis. Don’t forget there are no services near, so ALWAYS pack plenty of water whenever traveling though the desert.
Sonora Pass	Sonora Pass Highway 108, Badges? I ain’t got to show you no stinking Badges. Al Collins best, if not only line in “Treasure of the Sierra Madres”. I don’t know about a treasure but these pictures were taken on the Sonora Pass, 9500 feet elevation, on highway 108, the most scenic pass over the Sierra Madres.
Sonoma	Located north of San Francisco and about a 50 minute limo drive, or 60 in the family wagon, Sonoma is a beautiful town with lots to see besides wineries. There are endless boutique type shops around town and benches to park the husband on while the girls are shopping. Garage sales in the summer are a great time filler in between wine tasting and there’s nothing like shopping with a buzz on. See the blog on Sonoma wine country.
Viansa Winery	The Viansa market sells lots of unique gifts you don’t need, but you must have. Even if you’re not hungry, you will be tempted by the many dips that are available for sampling. This is great winery for non wine drinkers. If you are hungry, check out the deli or the brick oven outside that serves pizza and a variety of other dishes. There is a huge patio with seating that overlooks the valley. You will surely think you are in France or Italy.
Yosemite Park	The first national park, Yosemite has breathtaking views and scenery galore. If you are not into walking and hiking this may not be your park. There are few drive by picture spots and the “basin” gets very crowded. It is best to go in early in the morning, but check online and find out park hours as they close roads for almost any reason and limit traffic into the park. Wander around the Ahwahnee Lodge which is way cool, and a must to walk through.
Florida
Animal Kingdom	Disneyworld opened its doors in Orlando Florida just over thirty five years ago. With the addition of " Hollywood Studios, Disney Animal Kingdom and Epoct Center" Walt Disney World has become the largest vacation spot in the world. The complete park covers over 30,000 acres making it the size for San Francisco.
Disney World	Disneyworld opened its doors in Orlando Florida just over thirty five years ago. With the addition of " Hollywood Studios, Disney Animal Kingdom and Epoct Center" Walt Disney World has become the largest vacation spot in the world. The complete park covers over 30,000 acres making it the size for San Francisco.
Illinois
Lincoln' Tomb	Abraham's Lincoln's Tomb is the most visited President's grave site in the United States. Located in Springfield Illinois off of Route 66 people travel here everyday to pay their respects to one of the greatest American Presidents.
Route 66	Have a Route 66 road rally in Illinois and drive down the Mother Road and remember the good old days. Year around car and bike clubs travel the Illinois Route to show off their classic cars and hogs.To book flights and find great deals on motels and car rentals be sure to visit Postcard Journeys Travel Service.
Missouri
Branson	Branson, Missouri is home to country western music and the new Nashville. Hear your favorite country western artist in one of the many music halls located there. From country rock to country classic you'll find it all here.
Columbia	Columbia, Missouri is home to the University of Missouri. This well known college is known for preserving its pre civil war architecture as a way of defining its excellence in education and tradition
Shepherd Of The Hills	Shepherd of the Hills is one of the most loved stories of all time. Required reading for many of us it quickly became the third most read story in the world. Come and enjoy a reactment of the story at the Shepherd of the Hills theatre in Branson Missouri. A must see attraction in the Missouri Ozark Country.
Silver Dollar City	Located just outside of Branson, Silver Dollar City is one of Missouri's year around hot spots for family entertainment. Cost of a ticket is $50.00 but that covers all the shows (corny Ozark style) and amusement park style rides. Lots of old fashioned shops to find the right souvenir for your Aunt Sally back home.
Springfield Fantastic Caverns	Fantastic Caverns located in the heart of the Missouri Ozark country. Just a stone's throw from Branson and Silver Dollar city this cavern gives true meaning to Missouri being called the cave state. Not far from here visit the famous Bridle Cave. Yes--people really do get married there.
St. Louis Arch	St. Louis Arch--The gateway to the west!! If you see the outside of the arch your are missing a lot. Visit the museum and shops under the arch for hours of viewing pleasure. Learn about Native American history and the way the American Indian. Afterwards you can take a tram to the top of the arch. Beware-riding that tram is like taking a ride in a giant washing machine!!
Nevada Home Page
Caesars Las Vegas	If you want the best in live entertianment then Ceasars Palace is the place to be. Ceasars Palace has become home to the biggest stars in show business. Some of the more recent aritst have included Elton John, Bette Midler ,Jerry Seinfeld and Cher!
Mirage Las Vegas	Too much to do for a short getaway. The Mirage in the heart of Las Vegas is a palace of delights, where South Seas vibe meets Strip excitement. Where soft, sunlit days give way to torrid nights. Where you are invited to experience the Life Exotic. Come enjoy entertainment such as Danny Gans and the latest show by Cirque du Soleil! Every time you come to Las Vegas you will see something new. Little wonder that people return to this playground year after year.
More Vegas Sights	In northern Nevada the high desert has hot springs, mountains, skiing, hunting and the attractions like the Hot August Nights car show and the Burning Man Festival. Southern Nevada of course has Las Vegas (which is fun to explore even for the non gambler
Ohio
Around Ohio	Ohio: Land of farms, gardens, and gosh darn cold winters . Welcome to the land where corn is king, tomatoes grow high, and family is still the highest value a person can have. The country scenery here never ends with it's gentle reminders of the pat when you see old car skeletons setting in the fields.
Bob Evans Farms	Bob Evans Farms: Find out what the good life is really all about. Just beware the bean crew and the purple clouds that follow. Enjoy the old antique tractors and and country food burning on the grill. Plan to spend the entire day and don't forget wear your farming grubs.
South Dakota
Badlands	Badlands National Park is located in southwestern South Dakota,. The park itself spans 244,000 acres of eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires. Principle vegetation in the park is mixed prairie grass. The park contains some of the world's riches fossil beds dating back as far as 35 million years and contains the evolution history of such animals as horse, sheep, rhinoceros and pig. The park is now co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe and includes the sites of 1890's Ghost Dances.
Mt. Rushmore	Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The four presidents carved in stone side by side, Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Over three million visitors a year from around the world come to visit this memorial located in the black hills country of South Dakota. It has become a symbol of freedom and a hope for people from all cultures and backgrounds.
Utah
Zion Bryce Canyon	Bryce Canyon National Park is named for just one of many canyons on the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah. Erosion has carved colorful Claron limestones into thousands of spires, fins, arches and mazes. Collectively called "hoodoos," these unique formations are whimsically arranged and tinted with colors too numerous and subtle to name. You'll want to make sure you visit when the weather is good,
Coral Sand Dunes	Visitors will wonder at the shifting arcs of crescent-shaped dunes and sift the fine, salmon-colored grains at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. The Park encompasses 3,730 acres of southern Utah's color country. The park itself is breathtaking, with coral-colored dunes, surrounded by red sandstone cliffs, blue skies, and deep emerald forests. This is a photographer's paradise
Wyoming
Devil's Tower	Devil's Tower was declared America's first national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. The tower itself rises 1267 feet above the Belle Fourche River. The park itself spreads over 1347 acres and is covered with pine forests, woodlands and grasslands. It is populated with deer, prairie dogs and other wildlife. It is sacred site for many American Indians known as Bears Lodge.
Yellowstone Park	Yellowstone National Park! Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Yellowstone National Park became American's first national park in 1872. Yellowstone Park has become home to a varsity of wildlife including grizzly bear, wolves, buffalo, elk, and antelope. When you visit Yellowstone be sure to take in all the magical geysers and hot springs. Old Faithful is a must see for everyone.
Washington D.C.
Washington D.C.	The Capital of the United States, Washington DC or more correctly the “District of Columbia” is home to many of the national treasures, museums, etc. There are many things to do and see that aren’t political in nature. But a trip to see the White House or the Capital building is awe inspiring.
Exciting Attractions Around The World
Germany Home Page
Audi Factory	German workmanship- beyond belief. Audi-the pride of Germany. The German made automobile that sets the standard of workmanship around the world. Find out why you don't just drive an Audi--You experience it.
Neushwanstein Castle	This is King Ludwig's most famous castle. With its turrets and mock-medievalism, its interior styles ranging from Byzantine through Romanesque to Gothic its a real fairy-tale fantasy come true. It was built between 1869 and 1886. Only about a third of the building was actually completed
Italy
Rome	Rome: Taxi’s and tourists, and more ancient buildings than you can imagine. The town is alive with people, cafes and ruins to see and of course the all encompassing reason for anyone to go to Rome, Shopping!!!!. Beware the taxies and be sure you are very clear on your destination before you leave the curb, Oh Yeah, check your change very carefully.
Venice	Venice, Italy : Venice is made up of a hundred islands and is laced together with 400 bridges and 2000 alleys. The part of Venice on the canals is known as Old Town and is worth checking out. What a place, the square (plaza), the shopping, little cafes, and the canals and the water taxi’s all go together to make this a fun stop on the tour of northern Italia.
Laos
Kuang Sri Waterfall	Kuang Sri Waterfall. Don’t miss this gorgeous waterfall about an hour outside of Luang Prabang. The waterfall is easy to get to by tuk tuk and about US $4. The turquoise water and the lush tropical plants are picture perfect. Hike from the lower falls to the upper falls. then take a break resting on one of the many benches . Relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings
Mekong River	Mekong River The Mekong River, known as the Lancang in China, is the heart and soul of mainland Southeast Asia. Over 60 million people depend on the river and its tributaries for food, water, transport and many other aspects of their daily lives. Take a slow boat to or from Luang Prabang, Laos and see the beautiful scenery that changes with every bend in the river
Peru
The Amazon	The Amazon River is the world's second longest river. Only the Nile, in Africa, is longer. The Amazon however, at any one point in time has the highest amount of water flowing down it. No other river even comes close. It may not be the longest, but it is the widest. The Amazon river banks are home to many forms of exotic wildlife only found in that part of the world. jaguars, parrots, macaws, toucans, anaconda snakes and the dreaded piranha are just a few.
Machu Picchu	Machu Picchu was declared a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary in 1981 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Since it was not plundered by the Spanish when they conquered the Incas, it is especially important as a cultural site and it is considered a sacred place.
Thailand
Ban Tawai / Wood Carving Village	Ban Tawai / Wood Carving village: Carved Teak, sanded Teak, stained teak…. teak, teak, teak. That’s the wood carving village. Any conceivable thing carved out of wood and ready to take home. There are freight forwarders who can handle getting that 2000 pound 7 foot elephant or that special piece of furniture to your apartment on the Upper West Side. Ban Tawai is a short drive from Chiang Mai and it would be best to hire a ride but you can take the bus.
Elephant Camp	Teang Dow Elephant Camp: If riding an elephant tickles your fancy, go to the Teang Dow Elephant Camp. While it is touristy…how else could you ride an elephant? No it is not cruel, paying for the ride enables the camps (preserve actually) to buy food, lots of food, for the elephants. While riding, the elephant will take you to a tree house store were you can buy bunches of small bananas (plantains) that they happily take in their trunk and pop into their mouth.
Mekong River	Take a Mekong River boat ride if you want a lazy way to travel. Many of the boat operators on the Mekong river will lease their services out for your private party at very low rates!! Enjoy your meals on the riverboat while you travel along the river enjoying all the different wildlife that happens to come your way.
Tiger Kingdom	With no fear of getting mauled you can go into a cage with these tigers and just relax with them. Yes this is a tourist attraction, and yes you pay to get in, but not too bad considering the compound and the facilities. There are ranges of ages for cats, and of course everyone wants to play with a “kitten”. Just remember that like most cats these guys sleep 20 hours a day so you will probably just lie down next to one and have your picture taken. Fun though.
White Temple	One of the most spectacular sites in Thailand. The white temples in Thailand stand as an artistic masterpiece of their culture. All hand carved and all white. The sculptors that form the statuesque figures can be observed at their work in their workshops nearby.