Latest blog entries
Polliwog Park-Manhattan Beach
(Sunday, 17 August 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Whether living in Los Angeles or visiting, when one hears about Manhattan Beach they often think of the pier, surfing, laying on the beach, volleyball, and trendy shops. However, there is another side of Manhattan Beach offering tranquility, recreation, and escape….Polliwog Park. While Polliwog Park provides picnic tables and childrens play areas like thousands of other neighborhood park... (6196 more chars)
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Torrance Cultural Arts Center
(Sunday, 10 August 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Sometimes I get into a roll and keep doing the same thing over and over again. Last summer it seemed liked each week my trip of the week was a different beach along the Southern California Coast. This summer, it seems like each week is a visit to a new theater and different production. But I assure you, this is the last “trip of the week” to a Southern California theater for a while! ... (4092 more chars)
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Watts Towers
(Sunday, 03 August 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
I grew up in Los Angeles and it amazes me that there is always things I still haven’t seen. One such thing is the Watts Towers in South Los Angeles. I think part of the thing that kept me from visiting this historic site was growing up I was told this was a dangerous neighborhood. Well, today I ventured into South Los Angeles to visit this site which I found out is one of the top visited &... (6889 more chars)
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J.J. Haggarty Mansion-Neighborhood Theater
(Sunday, 27 July 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Back to back weekends of theater! However, this weekend I combined musical theater, a history lesson, and architecture into one trip! My destination on this Road Less Traveled was not far in Palos Verdes Estate to the “Neighborhood Church” which was showing the Los Angeles Premier of “Parade”. Sound confusing? Sounds unbelievable? Let me explain…. One of the more... (3575 more chars)
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Norris Theater
(Sunday, 20 July 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
I love theater…musicals, plays, concerts, or operas. Of course, my preference is to go to the big productions in the historic and grand theaters in all of their architectural glory. But I also enjoy going to local community theaters where occasionally you catch a gem of a production. One of the closest theaters to where I live is the Norris Theater in Palos Verdes only a mere 2 miles from ... (4091 more chars)
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Independence Hall
(Saturday, 05 July 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
In honor of Independence Day, I went to Independence Hall! No…I didn’t fly to Philadelphia for the weekend I went to Buena Park, California to visit an exact replica of the Independence Hall in Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution was debated and hammered out. I went there once as a child. It’s part of Knott’s Berry Farm in B... (2945 more chars)
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Dorothy Chandler Pavillion and the LA Opera
(Sunday, 22 June 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
It was HOT in Southern California this weekend. I kept telling myself I shouldn’t complain since I survived worse heat and humidity in South East Asia, but I complained nonetheless. Partly, because my apartment is on the top floor, AC prohibited, and my apartment reaches 94 degrees during these hot spells. But I was able to escape the heat if only for a few hours with a new experience and a... (6334 more chars)
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Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
(Sunday, 15 June 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
I love museums. Ironically, when I travel, I hardly ever go to them because to adequately see a museum takes up a lot of time, time which I do not always have when travelling to distant areas. However, when I have the time and am not rushed I love museums and Los Angeles has their fair share of museums. This weekend was a double treat because not only did I get to visit a museum I got to spend ti... (5842 more chars)
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The Beaches of Laguna Beach
(Sunday, 01 June 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Last weekend was Memorial Day, the official kick off to summer. However, it felt more like fall around here in Los Angeles with rain and chilly temperatures. But this weekend we were back on track with picture perfect weather; the type of weather perfect for a barbeque at the beach. This week my adventures took me to Laguna Beach. There’s a lot to see and do in Laguna and I couldn’t ... (4699 more chars)
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Nicaragua & Honduras
(Tuesday, 27 May 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Announcing this year’s International Trip….Nicaragua and Honduras September 25-October 11, 2008!! After several months of debating where to go this year for my international trip and even contemplating whether to go anywhere this year, I finally made my decision and purchased my ticket for this years International Trip. At first I thought of maybe taking a year off, but these intern... (4370 more chars)
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Central California and Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks
(Friday, 16 May 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
I love my Spring and Fall Road Trips! When visiting California people often travel the famous Route 1 through Big Sur or Route 101. Or they may drive portions of Route 66 through the desert. Going from Los Angeles to Sacramento there are two main highways that go across the never-ending San Joaquin Valley. Most people take Highway 5 because it is the fastest route but most will say it is a boring... (19810 more chars)
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Alex Theater
(Sunday, 27 April 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
It was hot this weekend in Los Angeles…it was South East Asia hot! So what better weather than to slip into a movie theater and enjoy a show in air conditioning. However, I’m not fond of going to the movies. Frankly, most of the movies that are released now don’t impress me but more importantly the theaters today are found in a mall, twenty theaters together, and no character a... (5432 more chars)
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Long Beach Grand Prix
(Sunday, 20 April 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Life is about experience…sometimes it’s my international trip to Cambodia and other times it’s visiting a local regional park for a picnic! This week, was a new experience for me right in my own backyard of Long Beach, The Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. My friend Cameron (designer of this website), has been going to this event for several years and invited me along this year.... (2566 more chars)
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Hospitality Club
(Friday, 18 April 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
As many of you know, I’ve belong to Hospitality Club for a number of years and have used this website to find lodging and like minded people when I travel. I’ve always had a great experience travelling the world and meeting up with locals from my destination or being hosted by “strangers”. Its an odd phenomenon, because very often you meet the person, know nothing about th... (5698 more chars)
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Rosarito, Baja California, Mexico
(Sunday, 13 April 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
It’s been a while since I’ve done an “overnight” trip of the week. But after several months of stress and ongoing problems, I was able to escape for three days and two nights south of the border! I love Mexico..be it border towns or deep in the heart of Mexico. I’ve been to Mexico more than any other country. My journey took me to the town of Rosarito half way betwe... (18748 more chars)
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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
(Sunday, 06 April 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
California has given “birth” to two US Presidents, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan (although Reagan was a native of Illinois). Southern California hosts two Presidential Libraries. Now those of you that know me personally, know I love history. I’ve already visited about 12 of the Presidential graves (including George Washington, Andrew Jackson, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kenn... (6571 more chars)
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Route 66 San Gabriel Mountains Foothill Section
(Sunday, 30 March 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
  Before carpool lanes and freeway interchanges, there was Route 66. I love Route 66! I think I fell in love with it when I read the Grapes of Wrath. It was known as the Mother Road running from Chicago to Los Angeles that led to millions coming to the “Promised Land” of California. In fact, my dad and grandparents made that journey back in the 1940’s. I’ve traveled s... (9567 more chars)
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Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
(Sunday, 23 March 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Happy Easter and Happy Spring. I feel almost guilty writing this since I know there have been flood, storms, and snow covering most of our nation but here today in Los Angeles it was 90 degrees and sunny! Frankly it was almost too hot for me this early in the year. But spring is here and this week takes us north of Los angeles a bit to the Antelope Poppy Reserve where it was a tad cooler and win... (6238 more chars)
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Little Saigon-Westminster, California
(Saturday, 15 March 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
As most of you know, my last great backpacking adventure was to South East Asia which included Vietnam. When I come back from these foreign adventures, I like to explore ethnic restaurants, neighborhoods, and market with my new found knowledge and appreciation of different cultures. For years, driving along the San Diego Freeway (or the 405 as we call it), I would see an exit off ramp to Little ... (4884 more chars)
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Pacific Marine Mammal Center
(Sunday, 09 March 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
The weather simply doesn’t get better than it did today! It started off so foggy and then it was bright sun and 78 degrees! It was perfect. Of course it brought all the people out to the beach. This week, I headed south to the Laguna Beach area. With this nice weather, I wasn’t brave enough to go to the heart of town but on the road between Irvine and Laguna Beach is the Pacific Mari... (3785 more chars)
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Downey and The Oldest Operating McDonald's
(Sunday, 24 February 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, my apologies for there being a lag in any trip of the weeks for the last 3 weeks! But due to inclement weather, my mom having total knee replacement surgery, work undergoing computer changes, other personal commitments and my own “bout” with the flu I have literally not had time to go out and explore our great world which has been driving me crazy. Nothing gives me more pleasure... (5900 more chars)
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Mexican Riviera Cruise
(Sunday, 27 January 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, I just returned from my longest cruise yet…8 days to the Mexican Riviera visitn the ports of Acapulco, Ixtapa/Zihuataneo, and Manzanillo. The first time I went for a cruise I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it. I was afraid I was going to go stir crazy but I fell in love cruising with cruising. Don’t get me wrong, I love my adventurous backpacking trips, but backpackin... (14554 more chars)
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Bowers Museum
(Sunday, 06 January 2008) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, the first weekend of 2008 was a dismal one weather wise. It has rained all weekend, thus limiting what I can do for my trip of the week. Even indoor activities seem like a chore driving in the rain in southern California! However, I didn’t let the rain get in my way and made a journey to Orange County to visit the Bowers Museum. I had previously been to this museum a few years ago w... (4830 more chars)
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Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
(Sunday, 23 December 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Merry Christmas! Well, this week proves to be a busy one for a lot of us visiting relatives, shopping, and celebrating Christmas. For me, it’s a little busier because December 20 th is my birthday! For my birthday this year I was treated to tickets to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes! But I didn’t have to go all the way to New York to see it (though I... (4250 more chars)
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Holiday Festivals-Beach Cities
(Sunday, 16 December 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
‘Tis the season…for festivals, parties, lights and parades. I didn’t have a particular destination this weekend but wanted to share a few local south bay holiday events! There are readers from all over the world celebrating various holidays during this season, but here in Southern California especially along the coast where I live, we tend to celebrate the holidays in a very u... (3592 more chars)
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Skirball Cultural Center-Hanukkah
(Sunday, 09 December 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
I’ve driven over the Sepulveda Pass a hundred times and have seen this off ramp to the Skirball Cultural Center and the Hebrew College. I figured the Hebrew College was a college about Jewish Studies but I never knew what the Skirball Cultural Center. On Saturday night I was trying to figure out what to do for my trip of the week. Being the holidays I wanted to do something festive. I the... (9974 more chars)
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Cambodia Town-Long Beach
(Sunday, 02 December 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, I have only been back a week and it was hard week trying to reacclimatize back to being home and figuring out what time it really was. I had such a case of jet lag but it seems to be settling down. I was exhausted most of the week and contemplated not doing a Trip of the Week. But I always find it important to stay on task and to get back into my routine as quickly as possible to ensure a s... (6433 more chars)
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The Last Leg
(Saturday, 24 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, I did not sleep well my last night in Singapore...it was so hot and humid and with out A/C..I couldn't sleep...I just gave up, packed and waited until 4:30 when the taxi picked me up. I went to the Singapore Airport, checked, and left on time uneventful. Upon take off, the pilot said it might be a bumpy ride because there were too big typhoons between Vietnam and the Philippines...and... (929 more chars)
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Singapore--The End of the Line
(Friday, 23 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings family and friends...this will more than likely, hopefully be the last email I send until I get home. I'm currently in Singapore...9 miles north of the equator. It has been quite and ordeal today and I think I may have taxed my body a bit too much today with the heat and humidity. Last night, Ratna came home from work and she made dinner for me and Denise. I told them I did not... (4600 more chars)
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Kuala Lumpur Day 2
(Thursday, 22 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello....and HAPPY THANKSGIVING from Taman Melati, Malaysia...that is the name of the district I am staying in with Ratna in Malaysia. It's Thursday evening...and if I didn't remember...I would have never guessed it was Thanksgiving...obviously it is not a holiday here and most people I talked to today...didn't even know about this holiday in the states. Aside from that....the 90... (4798 more chars)
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Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
(Wednesday, 21 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings my friends and family....well, a it's been a whirlwind the last 30 hours or so! I am currently in Kuala Lumpur the capitol of Malaysia. I forgot to mention in my last email that Penang saw some action in World War II and was under Japanese Occupation. I had seen many WWII sites in Europe...but my Pacific experience has only been Pearl Harbor...and that was never under Japanese ... (6857 more chars)
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En Route to Kuala Lumpur
(Tuesday, 20 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings....I am at an internet cafe waiting for my bus and getting thrashed by mosquitoes...so not sure how long this will last. You know...I get about 150 emails a day...most trash. I couldn't imagine coming home to 1000's of emails...so if nothing else it is good to clean the in box each day. Last night after I wrote...I went back to my room to relax a bit. There is a TV....I wa... (2024 more chars)
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Penang Island, Malaysia
(Monday, 19 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all...It’s later afternoon and I love to use this time for my internet/rest time. It's at the apex of heat and humidity, I'm drenched, and I welcome the break to get in an air-conditioned place, sip some water, cool down and write my friends and family. Today has been jammed packed and a wonderful day. I like Malaysia so much I've decided to add a day to Malaysia and ... (4222 more chars)
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Georgetown, Malaysia
(Sunday, 18 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello my friends and family...greetings from the island of Penang, Malaysia...my 28th country but who is counting ;) I can safely say....I am glad to be out of Bangkok and already Malaysia has proved to be a wonderful place and I've only been here about 6 hours! It's amazing how the arrival into a country and your interactions the very first hour can make or break your opinion of a p... (4655 more chars)
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Bangkok Day 2
(Saturday, 17 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all! Well I am entering into my final week...it's Saturday night here and shortly I will be leaving Bangkok and heading for Georgetown, on the Island of Penang, Malaysia off the Malayan Peninsular Coast. I was just informed by someone on my mail list that there is a departure tax from Bangkok of 750 baht (about $25) again! I hate that....why do some countries have that and some don... (4252 more chars)
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One Night in Bangkok
(Friday, 16 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Just trying to be funny quoting the song...however, I kind of wish I was just one night in Bangkok. Unfortunately, Bangkok is the only city I will be seeing in Thailand....so I cannot make a fair statement about the country...that would be like visiting New York and basing your whole opinion of the US on that city. People rave of Bangkok...and I am just struggling with this city...perhaps it... (4859 more chars)
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Goodbye Cambodia Hello Thailand
(Thursday, 15 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings! I am currently transitioning from Cambodia to Thailand...I'm still in Siem Reap but leave momentarily for Bangkok but since I have no idea where I am going, staying, or anything tonight I figured it was best to send off an email now. Well I have nothing but accolades for Cambodia....when I told people I was going to Cambodia they looked at me with a strange glance...and now th... (3551 more chars)
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Arrival in Bangkok
(Thursday, 15 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
This will be short...just checking in to let you know I'm safely in Bangkok...up to the point of getting here was beautiful. I got to the airport with Michael early enough to take an earlier flight which left at 5:10. The flight was nice...very roomy and only 1/2 full. I arrived at the airport which is huge and immigration was excruciating to get through....then customs. I had a contact ... (1052 more chars)
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Angkor Wat!
(Wednesday, 14 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greeting of peace to you my friends and family..again I write to your from Siem Reap. After I wrote last night..I explored the city which I absolutely love. Has a great vibe, friendly, clean and safe! Michael and I went out to eat at a super fancy restaurant and couldn't spend more than $15 between the two of us. We didn't get home until 11 pm. The alarm awoke me at 4 am!!! Yes, that... (3190 more chars)
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Siem Reap-Gateway to Angkor Wat
(Tuesday, 13 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello my friends and family...I send you peace and greeting from Siem Reap, Cambodia. After emailing last night....Michael and I went out to dinner...very nice place and I had a traditional Cambodian meal...Chicken and Ginger with spicy fish cakes in oyster sauce with a coconut shake. It was delicious. After we went to a club...The blue Chili which was a lot of fun....it seems that clubs and... (2333 more chars)
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Phnom Penh, Cambodia
(Monday, 12 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings friends and family from Phnom Penh, the capitol of Cambodia! Well, after I calmed down from yesterdays apocalypse now adventure we went out to get our money and to eat. The currency is the real but almost everyone use US Dollars and the prices are listed in US Dollars. I don't even remember my head hitting the bed last night and I passed out! I slept all the way to 6:30 this ... (2668 more chars)
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Cambodian Crossing Ordeal
(Sunday, 11 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings from Phnom Penh! I am currently in Cambodia on a computer that is dial up and 28k modem! This has been one long day and one long ordeal which progressively got worse as the day went on. Last night after writing...we went to dinner at a restaurant...I wanted Rice and Pork to which they said "no pork"...no "beef"...no anything but squid which I did not want so I just settled for ric... (3752 more chars)
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Mekong Delta Day 2
(Saturday, 10 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all...I am currently in the town of Chau Doc on the Vietnamese Cambodian Border. Well...after I emailed you last night....the town of Cantho was filthy! There were rats in the street at night, garbage and sewer every where. I had to eat...so I played it safe with fried rice...even still....I wonder what goes on in back in the kitchen! I was exhausted last night...and we had to get up a... (3925 more chars)
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Mekong Delta Day 1
(Friday, 09 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello friends and family...I am currently in Can Tho (pronounced Can Toe)....this was an incredibly exciting day with lots of adventure and an incredible journey which also at times tested my patience. We caught the 8 o clock bus in Saigon and headed south west for the Mekong Delta..the end of the Mekong River...3rd longest in Asia and 11th longest in the world. The drive there was nice...ni... (3987 more chars)
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Cao Dai & Cu Chi Tunnels
(Thursday, 08 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all, Well as is usually the case when I travel it was a truly jammed pack day. I sometimes am amazed at how much I do in a day when I travel and wish I had that same stamina back home in the states. Well, alas my friend made in yesterday late afternoon and was glad to see him. I had not seen him in about 4 or 5 years when he visited in Los Angeles. We spent the evening walking around S... (3708 more chars)
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Xin Chao From Saigon
(Wednesday, 07 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all! I hope that life is well. I've never been to a country that is so hot and humid! Unfortunately in all my photos I will have sweat stains...it's unbelievable the humidity here!! Well, I am in my first Communist Country...but you would never guess it...capitalism is alive and well and the downtown part of Saigon (which I will use since Ho Chi Minh city is so long)...is fille... (3815 more chars)
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Hong Kong
(Tuesday, 06 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all...I am currently in Hong Kong...it's 7:41 pm here....in Los Angeles like 4:40 am!! The worst is over. This was a 15 1/2 hours straight through. No major anxiety or panic and I didn't even use my nicotine patch! though I was dying for one when I got to Hong Kong and they do allow smoking in the terminal....nice terminal with free internet!! So I thought I would have a smoke,... (816 more chars)
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Arrival in Saigon
(Tuesday, 06 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Its1:15 here and I'm at the hotel....need to be fast. My flight from Hong Kong got to Saigon 1/2 early and the hotel was ready to pick me up. I waited for 3 hours for my friend from Minneapolis...he never showed up. I don't know where he is or what happened. But I'm at the hotel safe...it's dark..and all I could see driving here were 1000s of mopeds and bicycles. I hope my fri... (148 more chars)
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Final Countdown..
(Monday, 05 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well my friends and family...we are about to embark on our next journey!  Welcome to the new people in this email group! Well, here we go….It’s Monday, November 5 th and I leave in about 2 ½ for the airport via the public bus. I can’t believe I bought this plane ticket on March 5 th this year. I'm filled with excitement and a little bit of fear.  This trip has been a bit... (3300 more chars)
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Departure!
(Monday, 05 November 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well my friends and family...we are about to embark on our next journey! Welcome to the new people in this email group! ..It's Monday, November 5th and I leave in about 2 ½ for the airport via the public bus. I can't believe I bought this plane ticket on March 5th this year only a week after my angiogram! I'm filled with excitement and a little bit of fear. This trip has been a ... (3681 more chars)
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Hollywood Forever Cemetery-Dia De Los Muertos
(Sunday, 28 October 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Halloween is quickly approaching and this weeks Trip of the Week is perhaps one of the more unusual trip. It may even seem a bit macabre to some until they fully understand the purpose! This week took us to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for a festival of Dia De Los Muertos! With Los Angeles’ rich Latino American population, there is no shortage of Dia De Los Muertos celebration. Dia de los Mu... (10269 more chars)
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Faulkner Farm Pumpkin and Harvest Festival
(Sunday, 21 October 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
There were several Pumpkin Festivals this weekend, one of which is the largest in Calabasas. Several of the more famous pumpkin patches and harvest festivals are in the northwest corner of Los Angeles County. Unfortunately, do to several fires many of the pumpkin patches including the Calabasas Pumpkin Festival were closed down. In spite of this, I made it up to the very southern part of Ventura... (7959 more chars)
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South East Asia-Trip Planning III
(Sunday, 14 October 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Just a quick update on my trip planning for South East Asia. The last time I wrote about my trip planning was prior to my San Francisco Road Trip. For those few weeks I didn’t do much work or planning on my trip. However, last week was the four-week countdown to my departure so I had to kick it up a notch and do some serious planning. As for the first part of the trip, my friend Michael wi... (3952 more chars)
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Oak Glen Apple Harvest
(Sunday, 14 October 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
In keeping with the theme from last week of fall festivals..this weeks Trip of the Week takes us 80 miles east of Los Angeles to the Apple Harvest of Oak Glen. It may not be common knowledge that Southern California has an apple-producing region, but for those in the know, Oak Glen is a great road trip destination. Nestled high above the desert floor in a beautiful valley eighty miles east of L... (4241 more chars)
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Carpinteria Avocado Festival
(Sunday, 07 October 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Although the temperature here pushed 80 degrees, its technically fall time! And with fall come’s harvests, festivals and holidays! To kick off the next few weeks of harvest festivals, this week’s trip of the week took us north of Los Angeles toward Santa Barbara to the city of Carpinteria for the 21 st Annual Avocado Festival…better known as AvoFest!   The idea of the Calif... (5793 more chars)
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Historic San Diego
(Friday, 05 October 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
I’ve been to San Diego more than any other city outside of Los Angeles over the years. I’ve always had a fondness for San Diego and is probably one of my favorite cities in California. Thereis always so much to see and do there and the city just has a really good vibe. Of course one of the big tourist destinations down there is the San Diego Zoo which I have been to. This week, I actu... (13319 more chars)
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San Francisco & the Bay Area
(Thursday, 20 September 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hi!  I know most of you don't believe this...but I've never been to San Francisco!!  After 38 years of growing up in California...I finally made it.  In addition, since the fourth grade (the year when we Californians study the history of the California Missions) I've wanted to visit all 21 of the California Missions and with this trip...I completed my task...I've now visited every... (14381 more chars)
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South East Asia-Trip Planning Part II
(Sunday, 09 September 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
First, my apologies for no “Trip of the week” this weekend. Partly it is due to being swamped with work and I’ve had a killer toothache this weekend. But the main reason is because this week I’m leaving on my next “Road Trip” to San Francisco. So I’m actually a bit on overload doing trip planning for two trips at the same time! With that said….I ... (6114 more chars)
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Labor Day
(Monday, 03 September 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Labor Day marks the "unofficial end of summer" though at least here the weather would tell us differently  I live 2 miles from the coast and the heat the last few days have been unbearable. I don't have air conditioning so the temperature has soared in my apartment to 92 degrees. I have 5 fans going and worry about my kitties getting heat exhaustion.  I occasionally jump in the shower just t... (5377 more chars)
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South East Asia-Trip Planning Part I
(Sunday, 26 August 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
I often get questions on “how do you come up with these ideas for international trips?”   “How do you plan these trips?”   “How do you figure out where you are going? Where you are staying?   What you are seeing?”   I decided that I would start a few articles to help answer those questions especially in light of my next upcoming trip this November. ... (8479 more chars)
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Santa Monica Cat Show
(Sunday, 26 August 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Often, my “trip of the week” is a specific destination…a tourist destination…with historical sites, monuments, tours, and shotzky gifts shops. However, I occasionally go to events that will make it into my trip of the week. This upcoming fall there will be several of these events such as the Avocado Festival in Carpinteria, the Apple Festival in Glen Oak, and the Pumpkin... (8385 more chars)
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San Pedro & Port of Los Angeles
(Sunday, 19 August 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Growing up in the Greater Los Angeles area, I used to cringe when I heard people mention San Pedro. I grew up, along with a lot of my peers, thinking that San Pedro was the arm pit of Los Angeles filled with industry, shoreman, bars and brothels, and a “more undesirable” side of town. But in recent years, San Pedro has undergone some refurbishing and economic growth resulting in a r... (21726 more chars)
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Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade
(Sunday, 12 August 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, sticking with the theme the last few weeks, the trip of the week takes us to another beach destination! I realize this is the fourth beach destination in a row. However, this destination tends to attract many more tourists than my other beach destinations and has often been a “hit” with my international visitors. This week, my journeys took me to Santa Monica Pier and Third Stre... (7211 more chars)
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Redondo Beach Pier
(Sunday, 05 August 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, I’m sorting of cheating this week…..The trip of the week is a place I’ve been to hundreds of times since I was a child. It conjures up fond memories of going with my parents on a Saturday afternoon at age 5 for fried fish, a dip in the ocean and arcade games. I grew up in Hawthorne and as a child, going to the Redondo Beach Pier was like a big trip for a young child and I... (6270 more chars)
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Balboa Island-Newport Beach
(Sunday, 29 July 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
During the summer months I’m in a quandary. I don’t want to go too far inland or north because temps can soar to 100 degrees. On the other hand, I hate driving into some of the beach communities where there are flocks of tourists, high school students on break, and “summer getaway” crowds leading to noise and traffic jams. But the weather is nice at the beach this time of ... (9782 more chars)
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Dana Point Harbor
(Sunday, 22 July 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
It still amazes me how being born and raised in Los Angeles, I still have not seen or visited every jewel in Southern California. Many times I have driven from Los Angeles to San Diego and drove through Dana Point realizing it was the half way point but never stopping. This week, I decided to check out this “half way” point and was surprised by how much there is to see and do along wi... (8188 more chars)
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St. Sophia's Greek Orthodox Church
(Sunday, 15 July 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Decades ago when immigrants were pouring into the United States, Los Angeles was very similar to cities like New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Chicago. The area surrounding downtown Los Angeles was surrounded by neighborhoods with pockets of ethnic groups---The Poles, The Germans, The Irish, the Italians and so on. Each neighborhood with it’s meat market, produce stand, church, community f... (3938 more chars)
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Museum of Tolerance
(Sunday, 08 July 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
There’s a museum here in Los Angeles that I have been wanting to visit for several year. This week during the 4 th of July festivities, I made the trek up to West LA to check out the Simon Wiesenthal Center and Museum of Tolerance. Since I had recently visited Israel, I was not shocked by the strict security of getting into the museum. Cars and trunks are check, metal detectors and x ray... (8065 more chars)
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"We hold these truths to be self-evident..."
(Wednesday, 04 July 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Happy 4th of July!   Well, there was no trip today except over to my mom's for grilling and fireworks...but I felt compelled to write tonight.  Independence Day is my favorite holiday! It always has been.  Partly because it's summer and I enjoy the outdoors and fireworks and a good barbeque.  But I think the main reason is for my love of history and US History in particular.  It saddens ... (2584 more chars)
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Venice Beach
(Monday, 02 July 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Summer is in full swing….it’s getting hot, the people are flocking to the beach, and the 4 th of July is right around the corner. I had read several articles in newspapers and magazine that Venice Beach is the number one tourist destination in Los Angeles for international travelers and backpackers. As a kid, I went to Venice a few time with my folks and remember it being a slum mo... (11692 more chars)
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Irvine Regional Park/Orange County Zoo
(Sunday, 24 June 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Thursday marked the first “official” day of summer! With summer comes the outdoors, picnics, Barbeques and sun! This weeks trip of the week takes us to Irvine Regional Park, a gem in Orange County, which also includes the Orange County Zoo, Railroad Ride, and Children’s Pony Rides along with miles of hiking and outdoor fun! In addition, Irvine Regional Park is the states oldest... (10026 more chars)
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Los Encinos State Park
(Sunday, 17 June 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
As is often the case in Southern California in June, the marine layer covers the coast like a shroud and aptly named "June Gloom".  Day after day of marine layer clouds gets me depressed but if you drive just a little ways you can find sun and 90 degree weather.  Such was the case this Sunday when I drove to "the Valley". Many years ago, I had visited Los Encinos State Park, but as a child I rea... (8869 more chars)
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San Gabriel Mission and Historic Mission District
(Sunday, 10 June 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
My original destination today was Mission San Gabriel, nine miles east of downtown Los Angeles and one of the twenty one missions in California. However, a day trip to one of the missions turned out to be much more. I found out that the mission is located within the Historic Mission District of San Gabriel which includes a historical walk containing numerous historical buildings and points of int... (13722 more chars)
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Hsi Lai Buddhist Temple
(Sunday, 03 June 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Nestled in Hacienda Heights, Hsi Lai Temple was built to serve as a spiritual and cultural center for those interested in learning more about Buddhism and the Chinese culture. The Buddhist Temple encompasses over 100,000 square feet. The temple's objectives are to nurture Buddhist missionaries through education, to propagate Buddhism through cultural activities, to benefit society through cha... (3611 more chars)
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Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
(Monday, 28 May 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Happy Memorial Day! It truly was nice to have Monday off. Now is the official kick off for summer but let us not forget those men and women who served our country through the centuries. This week was supposed to be a hiking trip to part of the Pacific Crest Trail but due to technical difficulties (namely a broken down car in Temecula) my plans unfortunately had to change. But in spite of this se... (7982 more chars)
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California's Gold Tour Road Trip
(Thursday, 17 May 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Highway 49---California Gold Tour! Well, aside from my big international trips, I love to take a few Road Trips throughout the year. Last year, I did part of Route 66 through California and Arizona and Highway 101 along the California Coast. This spring's road trip was California’s Highway 49 (at least part of it). I usually take my mom along on these Road Trips however, this time I... (8446 more chars)
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Topanga State Park
(Sunday, 06 May 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
I almost didn’t have time for a “trip of the week” this week as I am in the process of preparing for Road Trip 2007---“California Gold Country”. But the weather on Sunday was to superb to pass up so I decided to get my exercise and “trip of the week” all in one shot at Topanga State Park. Located in the cliffs and canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains, T... (3302 more chars)
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Warner Grand Theater-San Pedro
(Sunday, 29 April 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Double Header! Two “trips of the week” in one weekend! The second outing this weekend was a trip to the Warner Grand Theater in San Pedro, California. I always enjoy visiting old movie theaters for the sake of the architecture and the grand opulent interior design. I especially love it when I can see an old classic in such a theater…a classic movie in a classic theater…t... (2928 more chars)
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El Dorado Regional Park Long Beach
(Sunday, 29 April 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Double Header! Two “trips of the week” in one weekend! The first adventure this weekend seemed like a silly one…a trip to a park in Long Beach called El Dorado Regional Park. I had heard of the park and recently found out that there was a nature center. I was pleasantly surpised. My first stop was the El Dorado Nature Center which is part of the El Dorado East Regional Park. F... (1673 more chars)
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Joshua Tree National Park
(Sunday, 22 April 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
This weeks adventure takes us to Joshua Tree National Park! This was my fifth time there and the National Park I have visited the most. Every time I go I see some new incredible wildlife…last year was the rattle snake. This year was a Bobcat perched up in a cave! Joshua Tree has a special place in my heart. My first time there was with my mom on a driving tour. Two years ago my mom and da... (6170 more chars)
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Orange County Fairgrounds & Pet Expo
(Saturday, 14 April 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Aside from visiting museums, scenic wonders and historic sites, I also enjoy attending local festivals or expos. This week was the Pet Expo at the Orange County Fairgrounds. All the years of growing up in Los Angeles, I’ve never been to the Orange County Fairgrounds let alone the Orange County Fair in the fall time. As some of you know, I have two cats (Kitty age 7 and Baby age 5). I had t... (3068 more chars)
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Crystal Cathedral-Garden Grove
(Sunday, 08 April 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Happy Easter! Well, in honor of Easter…the trip of the week takes us to “The Glory of Easter” at the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove. For those of you not local in the Los Angeles Area…the Glory of Easter is a live performance of the Passion of Christ from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. The largest and most spectacular passion play is brought to life through exciting dr... (3224 more chars)
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Calico & Barstow
(Sunday, 01 April 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Growing up in Los Angeles I had always heard about Calico Ghost Town and have wanted to visit it.  So this weekend, I made the journey. I didn’t want to drive all that way just for the ghost town so I turned it into a little weekend getaway including some site around Barstow…yes, Barstow.   Aside from the Ghost Town there are a few historic things in Barstow.  Also, I have a soft spo... (4573 more chars)
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Wayfarer's Chapel
(Sunday, 25 March 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
While not one of the most spectacular trips of the week it was an interesting one.  Due to work and car problems I had to keep it very low key and local this week.   So again, I ventured to the neighboring Palos Verdes Peninsula to visit the Wayfarer's Chapel. Wayfarers Chapel, a most unusual church made almost entirely of glass, is sponsored by the Swedenborgian Church and serves as a natio... (2308 more chars)
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Lake Elsinore
(Saturday, 17 March 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Lake Elsinore was incorporated as a city in 1888 but was inhabited well before then. For the past century, life on the shores of Southern California’s only natural lake can best be described as wild, wet and wonderful. From earliest times, the 300 natural sulphur springs that fed Lake Elsinore were believed to have curative and magical properties by its Native American Indian inhabitants. T... (4172 more chars)
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Big Bear Lake, California
(Saturday, 10 March 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Big Bear Lake was inhabited by the indigenous Serrano Indians for over 2000 years before it was explored by Benjamin Wilson and his party. Once populated by only the natives and the Grizzly Bears, from which the area received its name, Big Bear Valley grew rapidly during the Southern California Gold Rush from 1861 to 1912. Grizzly Bears were not found in the region after 1906. A trip to Big Bear ... (3316 more chars)
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Point Vicente Interpretive Center and Lighthouse
(Sunday, 04 March 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
This beautiful park, located adjacent to the Pt. Vicente Lighthouse, offers recreational and educational opportunities to the public. . The Interpretive Center opened in 1984 with a mission to present and interpret the unique features and history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.  Almost six years ago, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes held a gala event to break ground on a multimillion dollar expansi... (3648 more chars)
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Evergreen Cemetery
(Sunday, 25 February 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
I know that this probably seems like a very odd and macabre “Trip of the Week”.  But with my love of history and social justice both areas could be fulfilled with a trip to this cemetery.   Evergreen Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in the City of Los Angeles. Evergreen Cemetery was founded and developed by a private development company after many months of disagreement by the City C... (4868 more chars)
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Pepperdine University/Malibu
(Monday, 19 February 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Not one of my usual "trip of the weeks" but a great weekend nonetheless.  Actually it was more of an "emotional" trip of the week than a physical trip of the week.   The three day weekend started off with an old friend and fraternity brother coming out this weekend from Washington DC for our Homecoming Reunion at my old alma mater, Pepperdine University.   He arrived on Saturday morning and we ... (2767 more chars)
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Los Angeles Travel and Adventure Show
(Sunday, 11 February 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
This weeks "trip of the week" was not really a trip..but an outting but it felt like a trip around the world in 8 hours!  This weekend was the Los Angeles Travel and Adventure Show at the Long Beach Convention Center.  This was my fourth year attending and this is usually the foundation of how I start deciding where to go next.   This year the Travel Show was even larger than previous years with ... (1893 more chars)
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El Capitan Theater
(Sunday, 04 February 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
The first "trip" of the week was more of an outting to the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood.   Disney bought the theater a while ago and refurbished it and now premier Disney Movies as well as re-releasing old Disney Classics.   The movie this month was Mary Poppins. The El Capitan Theatre debuted on May 3, 1926, as "Hollywood's First Home of Spoken Drama." That evening, limousines pulled ... (2101 more chars)
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Heritage Valley Trail
(Sunday, 04 February 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
This first weekend of February, my trip of the week took me to the Heritage Valley Trail.   No it's not hiking...it's a trip by car.  It is approximately 50 miles northwest of Los Angeles up Hwy 5.  Then head west on Hwy 126 and you begin a journey back in time.. My first stop was Piru and Lake Piru.  This quiet community was founded circa 1887 by David C. Cook who came to the valley wit... (7484 more chars)
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Ensenada Cruise
(Saturday, 20 January 2007) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, I’m back from another little getaway. I guess after 3 weeks in the Middle East and the other international adventures a quick 4 day cruise to Ensenada doesn’t seem to exciting.    But this was my third cruise.   The first time I went for a cruise I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it.   But I really love cruising.   It’s the one getaway that is totally relaxin... (3694 more chars)
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Journey Back Home
(Friday, 24 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hi....I am currently in Atlanta....I don't even know what day or time it is.  I've been travelling for 24 hours already and still have 6 more to go.   I have never been asked, screened, questioned so much in my entire life.   I never thought i was going to get out of Israel.   IN Milan..they questioned and screened me and in Atlanta I had a run in with Shaneequa at the TSA counter....she... (619 more chars)
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The Sun Sets In Israel
(Thursday, 23 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all....the sun is setting in Israel as I write this....this is my last night here.  It is Friday evening and the Sabbath is beginning.  Nearly everything is closed down and the streets seem so empty.   It's been an interesting and emotional last day.....Tel Aviv really has nothing in the way of tourist site seeing stuff so most of the interesting stuff has come from happening and... (5738 more chars)
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Happy Thanksgiving from Tel Aviv
(Wednesday, 22 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
It's hard to believe it is Thanksgiving as it is just another work day here!  I hope that you all have a nice holiday weekend and I'm thankful for all of you for touching my life somehow and for letting me take you on this journey.   Well, I am in Tel Aviv....it is a "transition" back to the States.....They wear shorts and t-shirts here, mini skirts, Dolce and Gabana and when there... (2762 more chars)
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Dead Sea and Masada
(Tuesday, 21 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well, last night after I wrote I rested from about 6 pm until 9 and drifted off to sleep reading my Steinbeck novel.  It was so nice to sleep for 10 hours!     This morning I met my tour bus which held 50 but only had about 12 people on it.  It was a fascinating trip today.   We left Jerusalem and again headed to the west bank ...though security in this area wasn't as tight.  We then dr... (2836 more chars)
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Oh Little Town of Bethlehem
(Monday, 20 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well...the last 24 hours have been quite exciting....its amazing how  much can happen and one can get done in 24 hours whne travelling.   Being on the road for 3 weeks is a first for me...and I have to admit...I do like it over the 2 week trips. Well, after I last wrote....I went home for Gadi and Elyashiv to come home.  They decided they wanted to go out with some of their friends and take me ... (3828 more chars)
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Day of the Sacred!
(Sunday, 19 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
  Hi all....I am completely exhausted. I think today was the most I have pushed myself walking wise.  I had a lot of ground to cover today and the sun sets at 4 pm....so I had to get an early start and not dawdle.   The one thing about Jerusalem is security....they check your bags and you walk through x-ray machines just to go into a store, a restaurant, market..etc.  It is a hassle and cumbe... (5643 more chars)
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From Petra to Jerusalem
(Saturday, 18 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
  Hello I am a bit frazzled right now...it is 1:07 pm and I just got to Jerusalem and am in the old part of Jerusalem...on the Via Dolorosa in the Muslim quarter....but I have to rest and calm down and get my bearings.  The last 36 hours have been fascinating!   Friday night Simon, Suzanne and I went out to dinner and went to bed early.  We woke up early on Saturday at 6:30 and had break... (4237 more chars)
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Jerusalem Update
(Saturday, 18 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
I am so tired....just wanted to update you that after I wrote you...I had a bite to eat and calmed down.  I then called Elyashiv and Gadi.  They were busy at school but Elyashiv was nice enough to come meet me and let me drop off my bags, have some coffee and then he went back to school and I went to Old Jerusalem.   Elyashiv and Gadi are a gay couple that are studying at the Hebrew University h... (1154 more chars)
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Amman to Petra
(Thursday, 16 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all....I am here in Petra.  Last night we went out and had a Turkish tobacco pipe (hookah) it actually tasted pretty good and was fun to try something new.  At the cafe we met two friends of Simon and Suzanne...Akram and Subhi.  Very interesting people.  We then headed to a great party held at the home a French diplomat.  It was like the United Nations...there were Germans, French, Italian... (1051 more chars)
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Salam Alikum from Amman, Jordan
(Wednesday, 15 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
That means....the peace of Allah be with you....my phrase for the day.  Greetings from Amman Jordan..For your information I am 150 miles from the Iraqi Border and about 60 miles from Saudi Arabia...30 miles from Israel and 60 miles from Syria...smack dab in the middle of it all! The last 24 hours proved to be tiring but very good.  After I wrote...I found the shuttle to the airport and ended up ... (3189 more chars)
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Last Day In Turkey
(Tuesday, 14 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all...well this will be my last email from Turkey.   Last night Elyim picked me up and we went to a Belly Dance Show which was very exotic and a lot of fun.  Then they had regular Turkish dancing after.  Everyone was so friendly to me...though I could not communicate with anyone.  Elyim said they wanted me to get up and dance so I obliged and they were clapping and cheering and very happy ... (2555 more chars)
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Ephesus
(Monday, 13 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
After writing last night I gave into corporate America and went to mc Donald’s.  After all the difficulties yesterday I wanted something familiar.  I prefer to contribute to the local economy but couldn’t deal with it anymore.   Though...I did not have a Big Mac.....I had a McTurk....essentially a Big Mac on a pita flat bread with Turkish Sauce.   Today was a crown day!  I woke... (3513 more chars)
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Izmir
(Sunday, 12 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
First my apologies for the i & y fiasco...the keyboard is different and has extra Turkish letters.  I hope this one comes out a bit better...though it will take me a while to write it.   Well the last 24 hours have been rather exhausting.  Let me first start by nothing bad happened...i am just a bit frazzled and overwhelmed...but it is all good because this is the experience I wanted!   thou... (4182 more chars)
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From Troy to Izmir
(Saturday, 11 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Greetings from Izmir, Turkey.  I apologize for the numerous typos on this email.  It took me 20 minutes to figure out how to log on because the keyboard is in Turkish and no one here speaks English and I speak no Turkish.   After I wrote last night I was rather tired and went to bed early about 10 and slept until 6.  This morning I had breakfast and then got on the bus for Troy!!  Absolutely... (2836 more chars)
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Cannakale & Gallipoli
(Friday, 10 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hi all....I'm now in cannakale (pronounced sha-na-ka-lee).   It has been a long day.   Last night I went out with charlash and Oktay and their girlfriends and we went out at midnight...we did not get home until 3AM  and I had to leave at 5 am...so I opted not to sleep.  It was sad to say goodbye to them...they were all wonderful hosts. That is always the part about these trips taht are bitte... (2283 more chars)
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Final Day in Istanbul
(Thursday, 09 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Well this is my last day and night in Istanbul.  Last night Oktay was too tired to go out..but Charles wanted to...I am finally able to pronounce his name..but not spell it!  It was a wonderful night...   We went to the store...I b ought soda and he bought beer and we took it down to the Bosphorous Walk way and sat and talked for about 4 hours.  It was beautiful...the moon was reflecting o... (1639 more chars)
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Istanbul Day 2
(Wednesday, 08 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
Hello all! After I wrote last night....I met up with Oktay and Charles and we went to a Soccer game...like other countries...it is a huge sport here.  Team Istanbul played Team Izmir...not that i'm a soccer fan ...it was fun and a bit wild.  After we went out for lamb.  I was able to get to bed at a more reasonable time of midnight.   I am collecting so much information and stuff....that I ... (3201 more chars)
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An incredible night and day!
(Tuesday, 07 November 2006) Written by Keith Rhoades
After I last wrote, I went to meet Oktay.   Very nice person...he is a mechanical engineer, 28 and lives with a flatmate who i call Charles because i can't even say his turkish name let alone spell it.  They have a very nice flat near Taksim Square and are wonderful hosts.  I was so tired...but they wanted to take me out.  So we went out at 10 pm...and the streets and cafes were full!  we had...