Sonoma County California

This page explores Sonoma and Jack London from several angles. Sonoma Plaza, Mission San Francisco Solano, local birding and hiking in parks and along the coast, the lighted tractor parade celebrating agricultural heritage, and the French bakery Les Pascals in Glen Ellen, as well as a discussion of wildfire, flood, and seismic risks and why fall is often the best time to visit are discussed. The conversation then shifts to Jack London State Historic Park, outlining its trails, historic buildings, Wolf House ruins, “Pig Palace,” and eucalyptus groves, and summarizing London’s life as an adventurer‑author who became an experimental, sustainability‑minded rancher on his “Beauty Ranch,” where he applied ideas from his travels (like Korean terracing) and attempted—unsuccessfully—to launch a eucalyptus timber business.

WTO Palm Oil Standoff

Palm oil imports to the USA are expected to rise following Malaysia’s 2025 tariff exemption, particularly for refining into renewable diesel and jet fuel. This policy shift provides a significant advantage for Malaysian palm oil, especially as U.S. producers look for price-competitive, reliable feedstocks amid ongoing decarbonization targets.mpoc+1​ Expected Importers and Industry Players Cherry Point…

Seasickness

Seasickness is a condition caused by the confusion between different parts of the balance mechanism in the body. It occurs when the brain receives conflicting signals from the inner ear’s vestibular system, which senses motion and gravity, and other sensory inputs like vision. This sensory mismatch leads to symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue3. Seasickness is a common issue for individuals on boats due to the conflicting signals received by the brain when the body registers motion but the eyes perceive stability.

Ruby Princess First-Timer’s Survival Guide: Essential Passenger Wisdom

The author took two weeks researching the Ruby Princess and it was almost enough to avoid the pitfalls of a new cruiser. This post adds additional findings after completing a cruise to the body of knowledge involving this Love Boat. Bottom line, you will need several cruises to get it all.

Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Prince Rupert has experienced economic challenges from trade risks born of Trumpian tariffs as well as service declines, such as in the BC Ferries system, but the city is making tourism a top economic priority with strategic investment, infrastructure improvements, and destination marketing to attract visitors and support local business. It is the gateway to Haida Gwaii which is 7 hours away by ferry.

Titanic

The sinking of the Titanic continues to captivate people more than 100 years after the tragedy due to several factors. The ship’s discovery in 1985, the release of James Cameron’s blockbuster film in 1997, and the 100th anniversary of the sinking in 2012 have all contributed to a resurgence of interest in the Titanic. So…

Grand Tour

Tour of the Salish Sea in May of 2023. This page outlines key boating destinations and yacht club facilities across the Salish Sea, emphasizing recreational opportunities and amenities for visitors. Here’s a structured summary:

San Juan Islands (Washington)
• Roche Harbor: A picturesque destination on San Juan Island with a Seattle Yacht Club outstation (Henry Island), offering moorage, waterfront restaurants, a fuel dock, and a 19-acre sculpture park. Hosted the 2023 Grand Banks rendezvous.
• Friday Harbor: A hub in the archipelago with hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.
British Columbia Destinations
• Ganges (Salt Spring Island): A top boating destination with marinas, the Salt Spring Island Saturday Market, and proximity to artisanal shops. The Seattle Yacht Club’s Ganges outstation provides moorage.
• Desolation Sound: Features Cortes Bay, home to both Royal Vancouver and Seattle Yacht Club outstations, public moorage, and access to wilderness trails. Nearby Refuge Cove offers provisioning.
• Ladysmith (Vancouver Island): Known for its 5-mile harbor, Ladysmith Yacht Club, and annual events like the Heritage Boat Festival. Ovens Island (owned by the Seattle Yacht Club) allows seasonal public dock use.
• Garden Bay (Pender Harbour): Hosts outstations from both the Royal Vancouver and Seattle Yacht Clubs. The historic Garden Bay Bar and Restaurant, destroyed by a 2020 fire, remains a point of local contention due to redevelopment plans.
• Sydney (Saanich Peninsula): Home to the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea aquarium and a full-service marina near attractions like the BC Aviation Museum.

Cortes Island Canada

Go to Desolation Sound from Cortes Bay. The Island and bay were named after Hernán Cortés, the Spanish conquistador who conquered the Aztec Empire in Mexico. The island has a rich history, including First Nations settlements, logging, and fishing industries. Today, the island is known for its artistic community, organic farming, and ecotourism.

Seattle, Washington USA 2025

Take a cruise of Seattle’s Elliot bay, Or ride a ferry to nearby bays. Watch the Ballard Locks in action, And enjoy the botanical garden attraction. Seattle, a city of endless possibilities, With so much to offer, it’s hard to leave with ease. From boat tours to coffee shops and beer gardens, Seattle is a city that never stops giving.