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Are you a thrill seeker looking for your next adventure? If so, you're in for an exhilarating ride as we explore some unique destinations that cater to your craving for excitement. Whether you enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil explorations in nature, these destinations promise experiences that are anything but ordinary. Let's dive into some of the world's most thrilling locations! Unique Destinations for Adventure Junkies When we say unique destinations, we mean places that not only offer incredible activities but also provide breathtaking scenery and rich local culture. One such spot is Queenstown, New Zealand, often referred to as the adventure capital of the world. With a stunning backdrop of mountains and lakes, Queenstown offers everything from bungee jumping and skydiving to jet boating and paragliding. The stunning scenery of Queenstown offers adventure seekers an incredible backdrop for their thrilling activities. Another unique destination is Patagonia, located in the southern regions of Chile and Argentina. This sparsely populated area is a paradise for trekkers and climbers. The iconic Torres del Paine National Park features challenging hiking trails that lead to jaw-dropping views of granite peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. If you’re looking to push your limits and immerse yourself in nature, Patagonia is the place to be. Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park is a breathtaking destination for adventurous hikers and climbers. Lastly, consider heading to the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil. This unique ecosystem is teeming with wildlife and greets adventurers with countless opportunities for exploration. Engage in guided canoe tours, go zip-lining through the treetops, or spend a night camping under the stars. The Amazon offers thrill seekers delightful experiences that are unique to the environment. The lush and vibrant ecosystem of the Amazon Rainforest is a thrilling location for adventurers. Top Activities at Unique Destinations Now that we've highlighted some unique destinations, let’s look into specific activities you can pursue in these areas. In Queenstown, bungee jumping from the historic Kawarau Bridge is a must-do! At 43 meters high, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking freefall with the stunning Shotover River below. If that's not your speed, try skydiving for a bird’s eye view of the Remarkables mountain range. In Patagonia, one of the most popular and challenging hikes is the "W" trek. Spanning several days, it covers some of the world's most scenic trails. As you hike, you'll encounter glacial lakes, stunning valleys, and vast mountain landscapes. Be sure to prepare with proper gear and perhaps book a guided tour for an enriching experience. For Amazon explorers, embark on a guided night walk to discover the rainforest's nightlife. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, you’ll encounter nocturnal creatures, learn about the ecosystem, and experience the sounds of the jungle after dusk. No matter which destination you choose, these activities will certainly get your heart racing! Do Travel Blogs Really Make Money? You might be wondering if starting an adventure travel blog could be a profitable venture. Many individuals have successfully turned their passion for travel into a profitable business. By creating engaging content, such as travel tips, personal stories, and educational resources, travel bloggers can attract a following that often translates into revenue through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts, and merchandise sales. Particularly for those focused on adventure travel, the potential for income increases significantly. Companies within the travel, outdoor gear, and tourism sectors are often eager to collaborate with bloggers who can showcase their products to a dedicated audience. The key is to provide valuable content that resonates with your readers, fostering trust and engagement. The Importance of Safety in Adventure Travel Safety should be a top priority when exploring unique destinations. Always make sure to research local conditions, understand the risks associated with specific activities, and invest in quality gear. Before heading out to tackle challenging trails or extreme sports, tell someone your plans and expected return time. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, and remember to take note of the emergency contact information. Being prepared ensures your adventure will remain thrilling rather than perilous. Sustainable Adventure Travel As thrill seekers, it’s essential to consider the impact our adventures have on the environment. Sustainable travel means making choices that minimize our carbon footprint and protect the destinations we love. Opt for eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and use public transport when possible. When hiking or exploring, stick to marked paths to lessen your impact on local ecosystems. Always leave no trace, taking your waste with you to preserve the natural beauty of the locations you visit. Adventure travel can be exhilarating, but we also have a responsibility to preserve the environments we explore. By making conscious decisions, we ensure future generations can enjoy these unique destinations. Resources for Adventure Seekers If you're feeling inspired and ready to pack your bags, consider using the following resources to plan your trips: Travel Forums: Websites like Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree and TripAdvisor offer valuable insights from experienced travelers. Guided Tours: Consider booking through reputable companies that specialize in adventure travel. They can provide expert guidance and ensure your safety. Adventure Travel Blogs: Discover valuable tips and recommendations through an adventure travel blog, where fellow thrill-seekers share their experiences and insights. Begin Your Adventure Today! Unique destinations await those yearning for thrilling experiences. From the high peaks of Patagonia to the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's Queenstown, there are countless adventures to pursue. In every corner of the world, you’ll find opportunities to explore, challenge yourself, and immerse yourself in new cultures. So, are you ready to embark on your next thrilling journey? Plan ahead, prioritize safety, and make lasting memories in the unique destinations that call out to adventurous souls like yours. Now is the time to put on that gear and experience all the excitement the world has to offer! Happy travels! You can show your appreciation with a virtual coffee if you have found value in my blog.     Do not forget to subscribe to get my monthly newsletter.   Some of the links found on my website are affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and an Expedia Associate. Through other links, I may also receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Using them is a way of supporting me, helping me offset the cost of running this website, and ensuring that I can continue providing free content and resources.   ‍I truly appreciate the support!

Starting a travel blog can seem daunting, but it's an exciting journey worth pursuing. Whether you're an avid traveler or aspire to explore more, sharing your experiences can inspire others. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step, allowing you to create a meaningful travel blog that resonates with readers. What is a Travel Blog? A travel blog is a website or online platform where individuals share their travel experiences, tips, and adventures. It can include personal stories, destination guides, travel photography, and recommendations for attractions, accommodations, and restaurants. The primary goal is to inspire and inform readers, encouraging them to explore new places and cultures. Travel blogging has grown in popularity, with many people turning their passion for travel into a source of income. It’s essential to find your unique voice and perspective to stand out in this crowded space. Setting Up Your Travel Blog Creating a travel blog starts with choosing a reliable platform. There are several popular blogging platforms, such as WordPress, Blogger, and Wix. WordPress is the most widely used due to its flexibility and user-friendly interface. To start: Choose a domain name: Select a name that reflects your personality and niche. Keep it short, memorable, and easy to spell. Make sure the domain is available for registration. Select hosting: Choose a hosting provider to store your blog. Popular options include Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator. A good hosting service ensures your blog runs smoothly and loads quickly. Install WordPress: Follow the hosting provider's instructions to install WordPress. Most services offer a one-click installation process to simplify the setup. Choose a theme: Select a theme that complements your style. There are countless free and paid themes available. Aim for a clean design that enhances readability. Configure essential plugins: Install plugins like Yoast SEO for search engine optimization, Akismet for spam protection, and Jetpack for performance enhancement. By taking these steps, you’ll have a solid foundation for your blog and be ready to start creating content. What is the Best Adventure Travel Company? When planning your travels, partnering with an adventure travel company can enhance your experience. Some top companies in the industry include: G Adventures: Known for small group tours that focus on sustainable travel. They offer unique itineraries emphasizing local culture and experiences. Intrepid Travel: Similar to G Adventures, Intrepid focuses on responsible travel and provides a range of tours worldwide, including family, active, and themed journeys. REI Adventures: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this company offers active travel experiences, including hiking, biking, and kayaking trips. Finding the right adventure travel company depends on your interests, budget, and preferred travel style. Research these options further to determine which aligns best with your travel goals. Content Creation Tips for Your Travel Blog With your blog set up, it’s time to create engaging content. High-quality posts will attract and retain readers. Here are some tips for writing captivating travel blog entries: Share personal stories: Write about your experiences, including the challenges you faced and the lessons you learned. Personal anecdotes help create a connection with your audience. Use descriptive language: Paint vivid pictures with words. Describe sights, sounds, smells, and tastes to transport readers to your destination. Incorporate SEO best practices: Use targeted keywords relevant to your content, optimize image alt texts, and create engaging meta descriptions. This will improve your search engine rankings and drive traffic to your blog. Utilize photography: High-quality images are crucial for a travel blog. Invest in a good camera or smartphone with a decent camera. Capture beautiful landscapes, interesting architecture, and cultural highlights. Don’t forget to edit your photos for the best results. Stay consistent: Aim for a regular posting schedule, whether it's once a week or once a month. This keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more. By following these content creation tips, you’ll craft engaging and informative blog posts that your readers will love. Building Your Audience Once you start regularly posting, it’s time to focus on growing your audience. Here are some effective strategies: Utilize social media: Share your blog posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Create visually appealing content, leverage hashtags, and engage with your followers to build a community. Network with other bloggers: Connect with fellow travel bloggers to share tips, collaborate, and support each other. Comment on their blogs, participate in blogging groups, and engage in social media conversations. Guest posting: Write guest posts for established travel blogs to reach a wider audience. This exposes your content to their followers and increases your blog’s credibility. Email marketing: Build an email list and keep your subscribers updated about new blog posts, travel tips, and exclusive content. Use platforms like Mailchimp or ConvertKit to manage your email marketing efforts. Be authentic and relatable: Share your true self with your readers. Authenticity fosters trust and encourages readers to connect with your journey. Growing your audience may take time, but consistent effort will yield results. Stay committed and continue to improve your content and outreach strategies. Monetizing Your Travel Blog If you want to turn your travel blog into a source of income, there are several monetization options available: Affiliate marketing: Promote travel-related products or services (such as gear, tours, or accommodations) through unique affiliate links. You earn a commission for each sale made through your links. Sponsored posts: Partner with brands looking to promote their products. Write posts that feature these products while ensuring the content aligns with your blog's theme. Advertising: Use platforms like Google AdSense to display ads on your blog. You'll earn money based on clicks or impressions. Selling products or services: Create and sell travel guides, e-books, or photography prints. You can also offer consulting services for travel planning. Donations: Platforms like Patreon allow your readers to support you through monthly contributions in exchange for exclusive content or perks. By exploring these monetization options, you can start making money from your passion for travel blogging. Final Thoughts Starting your travel blog journey can be incredibly rewarding. By embracing your love for travel, sharing authentic experiences, and following best practices for growth and monetization, you can build a successful blog. Don't be afraid to experiment, learn, and adapt along the way. As you embark on this exciting adventure, consider following the path of those who have inspired and motivated you, like the insightful endeavors of crazydsadventures . Happy blogging! https://buymeacoffee.com/crazydsadventures You can show your appreciation with a virtual coffee if you have found value in my blog.     Do not forget to subscribe to get my monthly newsletter.   Some of the links found on my website are affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and an Expedia Associate. Through other links, I may also receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Using them is a way of supporting me, helping me offset the cost of running this website, and ensuring that I can continue providing free content and resources.   ‍I truly appreciate the support!

Traveling is an adventure that everyone should experience. However, the journey doesn't stop when you return home. Documenting your travel stories can be just as thrilling as the trip itself. It allows you to relive the moments and share your experiences with others. Here’s how you can effectively document your travels like a pro. Why Sharing Your Travel Stories Matters Sharing your travel stories can inspire others to explore new destinations. When you narrate your experiences, you create a connection with your audience. They can visualize your journey and might even decide to embark on their own travels. Furthermore, documenting your adventures helps preserve memories that might fade. Through stories, images, and reflections, you can create a lasting narrative of your travels. Tips for Crafting Engaging Travel Stories When documenting travel stories, consider these practical tips to maintain an engaging narrative: Keep it Structured: Start with an introduction that sets the stage for your travel experience. Describe the destination, your emotions, and what you hoped to find. Move on to body paragraphs detailing your adventures, interactions, and discoveries. Conclude with reflections on your trip and its impact on you. Be Descriptive: Use vivid language to paint a picture in the reader’s mind. Describe sights, sounds, tastes, and smells. For example, instead of saying “the food was good,” describe it as “the savory aroma of spiced lamb wafted through the air, making my mouth water.” Include Practical Information: Your readers will appreciate actionable information. Include details about accommodations, travel tips, cost-saving ideas, or local insights. This practical advice can make your stories not only engaging but also useful. Use Photos Wisely: Images can significantly enhance your travel stories. Choose high-quality photographs that complement your narrative. Make sure to capture images from different perspectives to create variety. Craft a Strong Narrative: Every great story has a conflict or a challenge. Share the struggles faced during your travels, whether it's navigating a foreign city or dealing with unexpected weather. This adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers interested. What is the Most Adventurous Thing You Can Do? Adventure is subjective and can mean different things to different people. For some, it might be hiking through rugged mountains, while for others, it could mean sampling street food in a bustling market. Think about the activities that pushed you out of your comfort zone. Reflect on how these adventures shaped your trip and the lessons learned from them. Consider taking a photography hike where you capture both nature and thrill through your lens. Seek out new experiences, like learning a traditional dance or participating in local festivals. These experiences are often the most memorable and provide excellent material for your travel stories. Tools to Document Your Travels To create compelling travel stories, you can leverage various tools and methods: Journaling: Keep a travel journal to jot down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in real-time. This can serve as the foundation for your blog posts or stories later. Photography: Invest in a good camera or use your smartphone to capture unforgettable moments. Experiment with different angles and settings to highlight the essence of your adventures. Blogging Platforms: Use platforms like WordPress or Medium to share your stories with a broader audience. You can create a personal travel blog or contribute to group blogs. An option like crazydsadventures can be a great example of how a travel blog can look and feel. Social Media: Utilize social media to document your travels in real-time. Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are great platforms for sharing snippets of your journey. Use hashtags to connect with fellow travelers and expand your reach. Editing and Sharing Your Travel Stories After documenting your travels, the next step is editing and sharing: Edit for Clarity: Review your writing for clarity and conciseness. Eliminate unnecessary words and ensure each sentence contributes to the narrative. Proofread: Check for grammatical errors and typos. A polished story enhances your credibility as a writer. Add Images: Select photos that align with your text. Images should support the story rather than distract from it. Engage with Your Audience: After sharing your stories, interact with your readers. Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and create a community around your narratives. By documenting your travels thoughtfully, you can inspire countless people to discover the world, just as you have. Each story not only preserves your experiences but also encourages others to embark on their adventures. Final Thoughts on Travel Storytelling Travel storytelling is more than just sharing experiences; it's about connecting with others and inspiring them to explore. Keep your stories engaging, use vivid imagery, and do not shy away from sharing challenges and triumphs. Documenting your travel journeys can lead to unexpected joy, not just for you, but for those who read your stories. So, grab your notebook, camera, or laptop and start crafting your unique travel narrative. Your adventures are waiting to be shared and celebrated! You can show your appreciation with a virtual coffee if you have found value in my blog.     Do not forget to subscribe to get my monthly newsletter.   Some of the links found on my website are affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and an Expedia Associate. Through other links, I may also receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Using them is a way of supporting me, helping me offset the cost of running this website, and ensuring that I can continue providing free content and resources.   ‍I truly appreciate the support!

Nestled along the breathtaking Oregon Coast, Newport is more than just a spot on the map; it’s a vibrant collection of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Picture a place where stunning views meet captivating marine life. Newport promises an adventure that speaks to every type of traveler. Whether you are a seafood lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply in search of a peaceful getaway, Newport’s charm will surely enchant you. Let’s embark on this journey of discovery together. Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Yaquina Bay One of Newport’s most picturesque features is Yaquina Bay. This stunning bay offers breathtaking views of the ocean, with the iconic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse standing guard since 1871. The lighthouse serves not only as a historical landmark but also as an excellent spot for photography. Take a stroll along the bay or rent a kayak to get a closer look at the lively marine life. The waters are home to harbor seals, playful otters, and a variety of seabirds. For instance, you might spot a seabird like the elegant Caspian tern as it dives for fish. A scenic walk along the harbor is essential. You’ll experience a serene atmosphere while discovering charming shops and restaurants. This is the perfect way to end your day with a delicious meal featuring locally caught seafood. A Taste of Newport: The Culinary Scene No visit to Newport would be complete without enjoying its culinary delights. The city’s coastal location means an abundance of fresh seafood, with local eateries serving delightful dishes that celebrate the ocean's bounty. From the famous clam chowder to the succulent Dungeness crab, seafood lovers visit waterfront restaurants that are consistently rated among the best in the state. Make sure to stop at Newport Fishermen’s Wharf, where on busy days, you can see boats returning with freshly caught fish. Additionally, the rise of food trucks in the area means you can enjoy a diverse range of meals on the go, from fish tacos to gourmet burgers. For example, one popular fish taco truck boasts selling over 5,000 tacos each summer alone! Every bite reflects local flavors, making each meal an essential part of your Newport experience. Discovering the Oregon Coast Aquarium Just a short walk from Newport’s bustling waterfront is the Oregon Coast Aquarium, a treasure that delights visitors of all ages. This aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including lively sea otters, playful seals, and vibrant fish. Interactive exhibits, such as the Ray Touch Pool, allow you to connect with marine life in a fun and engaging way. You’ll also find impressive underwater tunnels that provide a breathtaking view of the Pacific Northwest's oceanic wonders. The aquarium emphasizes education and conservation, also letting you learn about the importance of preserving marine habitats. Whether you're visiting with family or embarking on a solo adventure, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a must-see highlight that enriches your experience in Newport. Nature’s Playground: South Beach State Park Nature enthusiasts will rejoice upon discovering South Beach State Park, a stunning area showcasing the magnificent Oregon coastline. The park is perfect for hiking, camping, and beachcombing. With miles of sandy beaches and lush forested trails, South Beach State Park is a haven for outdoor activities—the scenic trails wind through coastal habitats, offering hikers serene views. If you're looking for relaxation, unwind on the beach and listen to the gentle crash of waves. Birdwatching opportunities are abundant here, with over 200 species recorded. You may see migratory birds, such as the stunning Western Sandpiper, during their seasonal visits. Facilities like picnic areas and restrooms also make it easy to spend an entire day enjoying nature’s wonders. Historical Insights at the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area History lovers and nature enthusiasts alike will enjoy a visit to the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. This stunning coastal region features geological formations, captivating tide pools, and the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse, dating back to 1873, offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about maritime history. You can wander through the informative visitor center and join guided tours that reveal fascinating stories of the past. The natural area surrounding the lighthouse is equally impressive, with rocky cliffs providing a habitat for various seabirds, including the common murre. The tide pools are particularly enchanting peek beneath the surface to discover an array of colorful sea stars, interesting anemones, and crab species. This unique location offers a blend of history, education, and extraordinary natural beauty. Thrilling Outdoor Activities: Whale Watching and More In Newport, adventure awaits just beyond the shoreline. One of the most exhilarating experiences is whale watching. Each year, thousands of gray whales migrate alongside the Oregon Coast. The peak viewing periods occur from late winter through early spring. Several local charter companies offer guided tours, boosting your chances of spotting these majestic creatures. You might witness whales breaching and spouting, sharing the excitement with dolphins and sea lions as well. For further adrenaline-pumping experiences, think about trying paddleboarding, fishing, or surfing the coastal waves. Newport's coastline is a playground for those craving adventure, complemented by stunning ocean views. Unique Shopping Experiences in Newport For those who enjoy shopping, Newport offers an eclectic array of shops ranging from local boutiques to quaint souvenir stores. The Historic Bayfront area features charming shops that showcase handmade crafts, unique jewelry, and distinctive art pieces. Explore galleries that showcase local talent, ensuring you’ll find a unique treasure to take home as a memento of your Newport adventure. Additionally, coastal-themed stores guarantee that you'll discover the perfect gift or keepsake to remember your visit. Set aside time to browse, as you’ll want to soak in the charming atmosphere as you wander from shop to shop. Annual Events and Festivals Newport is not only a picturesque destination; it also hosts a variety of annual events and festivals, attracting visitors from all over. These events provide an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. The Newport Seafood and Wine Festival is particularly renowned, featuring the best culinary delights from the area. Sample fresh seafood prepared by top chefs, perfectly paired with exquisite local wines. In the summer, the city comes alive with vibrant live music, outdoor movie nights, and farmers’ markets, fostering a festive atmosphere that complements Newport's charm. Relaxation and Wellness Retreats After exploring all that Newport has to offer, consider unwinding at a wellness retreat. Numerous spas and wellness centers focus on rejuvenation and relaxation. From soothing massages to yoga classes overlooking the ocean, these retreats provide the perfect antidote to a busy travel itinerary. Plan a spa day or simply lounge on the beach to enjoy the calming sounds of the waves. Embracing relaxation is an ideal way to balance the adventure and excitement of your Newport experience. Final Thoughts Newport, Oregon, is a treasure trove of hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. With stunning coastal views, delicious culinary experiences, rich history, and thrilling outdoor activities, this charming town has something for every traveler. As you explore Newport's scenic bays, lively streets, and tranquil parks, each moment reveals the magic that makes this location a must-visit destination. Pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey filled with discovery—Newport is waiting for you! Your adventure in Oregon awaits, so embrace the beauty, savor the flavors, and fall in love with this coastal paradise! Places to Stay: The Cottage - Newport Eclectic Charm La Quinta Inn & Suites You can show your appreciation with a virtual coffee if you have found value in my blog.       Do not forget to subscribe to get my monthly newsletter.   Some of the links found on my website are affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and an Expedia Associate. Through other links, I may also receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Using them is a way of supporting me, helping me offset the cost of running this website, and ensuring that I can continue providing free content and resources. ‍ I truly appreciate the support!

Crazydsadventures Newsletter   October 2024   Oxford Saloon, Black Diamond, and Lawson, WA   This month's newsletter is dedicated to the paranormal because it is Halloween. I will discuss three locations, all in about the same area, with paranormal activity. Oxford Saloon    The Oxford Saloon is located in Snohomish, Washington. In historic Snohomish, the Oxford Saloon was built in 1900 and, for a decade, was known as Blackman’s Dry Goods store. It then became a saloon, and over the years, it has changed owners and uses, but each owner incorporated “Oxford” in its name.   When remodeled as a saloon, the owners added a vestibule to the entrance, with a stairway leading to several rooms on the second floor. These were supposed to be boarding house rooms, but there are rumors that a prominent local businesswoman, Kathleen (or Katherine), rented them as a high-class bordello. She did not go into the saloon but kept an office at the local Eagle’s Lodge, where she made reservations for her high-toned clientele.   Over the years, the Oxford Saloon was often the scene of violence, especially around the basement, a men’s card room, and the bar. One well-documented killing was that of a policeman named Henry. He was a regular at the Oxford and may have moonlighted as a bouncer. One night, there was a fight, and when Henry attempted to break it up, he was knifed and died in the melee.   Henry seems stuck here and enjoys certain aspects of his ghosthood. He hangs out around the stairs leading to the basement and has been seen many times in the lady's restroom. He is seen and felt, and many women report being pinched by him. However, Henry always disappears when confronted.     The second floor of the Oxford is now rented out as offices, but at least three ghosts seem to remain from the Oxford’s darker days. One is a man in a bowler hat, and the others are two women. Some people believe one is Kathleen, who eventually lived upstairs. She is seen as an older woman dressed in a purple dress with purple bows. The other woman is Amelia, one of Kathleen’s girls, who had been forced into prostitution. Her dead body was found curled up in her closet, and no one was sure whether she committed suicide or was murdered. It was never solved. In total, ten deaths have been recorded on the property. Oxford Saloon is also home to a haunted doll inherited by antique shop owners who were former tenants. The doll has left the property several times only to mysteriously return. I couldn’t find the location of the doll when I was here, but here is a picture of her courtesy of Snohomishtalk.com   Many paranormal investigators have investigated it and found clear examples of electronic voice phenomena. I did not experience paranormal activity here, but the food and service were excellent. Lawson, Washington Lawson, Washington, is now a Ghost Town. The Lawson Coal Mine was located near the former coal mining town of Black Diamond in King County, WA. The small community of Lawson was established in 1896 as a coal company town. On the morning of November 6th, 1910, an explosion tore through the mine, killing sixteen miners. Eleven of the sixteen miners who perished were recovered, and five of the miners were unable to be recovered due to the destruction of the mine workings. The official cause of the accident was never determined, as the lower workings of the mine slope were inaccessible. Nine of the miners killed in the Lawson Mine are interred at the Black Diamond Cemetery. Dave Lunden, Fire Boss, is in a marked grave, and eight others are in a mass grave. This is probably why the Black Diamond Cemetery is haunted. This disaster essentially brought the community of Lawson to a heartbreaking end. ​Today, what little remains of the Lawson Mine site is located on private land. The explosion of the mine blew the town of Lawson to pieces and is gone forever. Black Diamond Washington. A cemetery is not an inherently creepy place. Some of them can be pretty peaceful. But if you've ever walked around Washington's Black Diamond Cemetery, you may have felt something is a little off. And you wouldn't be the only one. This cemetery has quite a haunted history. Please NOTE that there is no such thing as an actual ghost detector. Though many TV shows claim otherwise, there’s not . We have electronic devices that catch anomalies, and we deduce scientifically, using the scientific method, whether or not it’s a natural phenomenon occurring. There’s the EMF reader, a standard ghost-hunting tool that measures electromagnetic radiation; some paranormal researchers claim ghosts emit a field that these devices can read. Then, there are full-spectrum cameras, which may capture a subject or object that isn’t visible in a spectrum that people can see. There are also high-end audio recorders that can pick up the voice of a spirit when the naked ear can’t hear it — otherwise known as an EVP or electronic voice phenomenon. Other tools, too, are controversial, even among ghost hunters. One example is a “spirit box.” A spirit box is an audio-only device that rapidly scans through multiple audio channels. It is said to make it relatively easy for ghosts to manipulate to say a word or phrase in real time; there are also motion sensors that can pick up spirits' movements if they get near them. Here is the grave of Dave Lunden, Fire Boss If you do a quick Google search of the most haunted places in Washington, Black Diamond Cemetery comes up almost every time; there have been a lot of mining accidents — four big ones, to be exact — and I think that’s what has caused this… paranormal energy and activity in this small town.   It has been said that visitors hear whistling and hearing voices when nobody else is around. There have also been reports of the swinging lanterns of dead coal miners seen on foggy nights. Apparitions of deceased coal miners swinging lanterns have been known to appear late at night. There have also been reports of a white horse that weaves in and out of the tombstones. This is an unmarked grave of the eight miners killed in the Lawson Mine Explosion. One group of paranormal investigators was getting bizarre things… including violent words popping up on the Ovilus. Words like “homicide” and “riverbank” were heard through the device. They claim there was a lot of activity—words being spat out quite a bit— so there was some energy in the area that the Ovilus was picking up on and utilizing. While here, I received some EMP activity and realized I needed to invest in a Spirit Box. There were also many places with changes in energy and cold areas. I would love to come back here someday with a Spirit Box and then head to Seattle to visit Kell's Irish Pub, another extremely haunted place. Before it became Kell's, it used to be a mortuary. The Black Diamond Coal Mining Company established the Black Diamond Cemetery as a company and a community cemetery. Whether or not you believe in the paranormal, it is still a fascinating place to explore. The site's history dates to 1884; the cemetery now has over 1,200 gravestones.

Oregon Country Fair in Veneta Oregon. One of my life missions is to find things that bring me peace and happiness, and this was a good day!! For as long as I live in Oregon, I will come here every year because this is a place where everyone is at peace and there is no judgement against other people. I would describe the fair itself as a combination of Mithraism, Paganism, Herbalism, and Hippieism. I arrived here at about 1030 in the morning and didn't leave until about 8 at night. I spent some time in the Darma Garden meditating and also took a Yoga Class. This was the first time I tried Yoga and it was a class for beginners and I really enjoyed it. It was also nice just to sit under a tree or on a bench for a while and people watch. Everyone seemed so at peace and the energy was awesome!! In its earlier years there used to be a drug problem here and now no drugs or alcohol are allowed. I think this went back to 1973 when the Grateful Dead played here. There is also a no glass policy because of the amount of people walking around in bare feet. Clothing on the other hand is optional and during the day there is no nudity allowed because of the number of kids here but later in the evening that goes out the window. There is also a lot of topless people here during all hours of the day. It's all good because there was no judgment, and everyone was here to have fun and just be themselves. The Oregon Country Fair creates events and experiences that nourish the spirit, explore living artfully and authentically on earth, and transform culture in magical, joyous and healthy ways. There are no Corporations here and another thing I liked was no caged animals and I guess that's the vegan part of me. This is Jeff and his daughter. Jeff and his wife Amy own Naked Clothing. Naked Clothing began as a one-man company 23 years ago and is still a small company today counting just Jeff and his wife Amy. Jeff first began screen-printing as a college student. He crafted his main trade as a screen-printer and developed his own line which he named "Naked Clothing," printing local art on hemp and organic cotton shirts sewn in Seattle. His company grew to supply numerous ecologically conscious Mom & Pop shops around the country. Eventually his sew shop in Seattle closed, and Jeff began sourcing quality hemp and bamboo tee shirts which are certified fair trade and sewn in China. I did buy a T-shirt here and you can check out their website at Naked Clothing :: Hemp tees / Bamboo / Organic Cotton Tees The artistic expression of people here was amazing!! I really enjoyed the Buddhist area and the prayer wheels made out of 55-gallon barrels was awesome. I spent time sending prayers into the wind. I also want to give a shout out to JAMES DEROSSO MONSTERS. He is on Instagram and check out his site for some really cool ceramic items. Here is the link to his Instagram account James DeRosso (@monster8james) • Instagram photos and videos. Every day features live entertainment on 17 stages from morning to night. From puppet shows to poets, folk tunes to flamenco, jugglers to jam bands, hip hop to High Step, dragons, unicorns, fairies and more, you’ll find it all at the Fair. Revel in the spectacle of the crowd and join in on the parade. The Fair is where you are encouraged to dress with flair and let your inner child romp with glee. Nothing beats the people watching at Oregon Country Fair. The dates are already set for 2024 and it will be July 12, 13, and 14th and I hope to see you there.