One of the things I love about my travels is that I get to experience living elsewhere. Staying at an AirBnB or with friends gives me the ability to experience life as if I were living in places other than Boston. I get to shop at the local grocery stores, experience the coffee shop around the corner, see what night life is like and work remotely in different environments. It’s like I’m living somewhere else for a small amount of time. These are my ‘other homes’ from my Missoula and back trip.
Des Moines, IA
My Des Moines AirBnB home was in a great location, in a beautiful neighborhood and had some old charm. The coffee shop was just a few blocks away and downtown was a short drive. I was able to take a short Uber to the Iowa State Fair and most activities and restaurants were a quick drive. Raven, the cat, loved sitting on my lap and visiting me in my room which was very sweet. The front porch was quaint and a great place to relax or get some work done.
Omaha, NE
My Omaha AirBnB was a comfortable little place in a very cute walkable residential neighborhood which I took advantage of. There were some really nice gardens up and down the street. Both the living room and front porch were very comfortable so I ended many of my evening just sitting in the front and reflecting.
Boise, ID
I think the Boise AirBnB was my favorite ‘home’ on this trip. I had my own full apartment above the garage which made it look like it was up in the trees. It was in such a beautiful, walking, tree lined neighborhood which made it very peaceful. It was named “Pat’s Treehouse” after one of the owners, however, I called it that because I was able to watch the Pats on the big screen television!
Fargo, ND
My Fargo AirBnB kept the trend of being in a nice residential neighborhood. I was able to walk to a few restaurants as well as the Fargo Brewing Company. It had a beautiful outdoor sitting area which I took advantage of by eating some of my meals there. The weather was so nice, I was able to work outside sometimes as well. I was a little surprised that Fargo in October was that warm.
I have future AirBnBs in Raleigh, NC, Miami, FL and Birmingham, AL already reserved for my upcoming Florida family get-a-way trip.
Today, I’m sharing a crucial aspect of visiting the captivating Airport Mesa Vortex in Sedona, Arizona—parking. As a fellow traveler living the van life, who had my fair share of parking drama at this mesmerizing site, I’m here to provide you with valuable insights and recommendations on how to secure a parking spot and make the most of your visit.
Parking at the Airport Mesa Vortex: A Race Against the Clock
When I heard about the limited parking at the Airport Mesa Vortex and the advice to arrive early, I thought I was prepared. However, my experience was a wake-up call in more ways than one.
To make the most of this adventure, I set my alarm for 5 A.M. and arrived at the Airport Mesa Vortex trailhead at 6 A.M., hoping to snag a parking spot for my van. Much to my surprise, all the spaces in the closer parking area were already taken. Undeterred, I decided to wait, believing it wouldn’t be long until someone came down from the vortex, freeing up a parking spot. As I waited, another van pulled up, and we both found ourselves in a parking standoff, each with our blinkers on, waiting for the same spot.
Tensions Rise: The Blinker Battle
As my fellow van dweller and I both had our blinkers on, a tense situation emerged. We both desperately wanted the same spot from the first person to come down from the vortex. It was a classic case of blinker warfare—a standoff that can test the patience and civility of even the most seasoned van life travelers.
Tips for Navigating the Parking Challenge
Arrive Ultra Early: My ultimate recommendation, based on my experience living the van life, is to arrive at the Airport Mesa Vortex well before sunrise. This not only increases your chances of securing a parking spot for your van but also allows you to witness the stunning Sedona sunrise from this unique location.
Consider the Longer Parking Option: If you’re not an early bird or prefer a more extended hike while embracing the van life, the parking area at the top of Airport Rd is a viable alternative. While I can’t speak from personal experience about this option, it alleviates the stress of competing for limited spaces and provides an opportunity to explore a longer section of the trail. Many van life enthusiasts opt for this choice to avoid parking conflicts.
Be Prepared for Parking Fees: It’s possible that there may be a parking fee at the Airport Mesa Vortex. During my visit, I didn’t encounter such a charge, but I did notice that some websites mentioned the possibility. Parking regulations can change, so I recommend checking the latest information online or with local authorities to confirm the current parking fee status. Being prepared for potential fees will ensure a smoother experience while living the van life.
Carpool with Fellow Travelers: If you’re traveling with friends or fellow van lifers, consider carpooling to reduce the number of vehicles searching for parking. This not only helps ease the parking situation but also lessens the environmental impact of multiple vehicles, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly visit.
Midweek Visits: If your travel schedule allows for flexibility, plan your visit to the Airport Mesa Vortex on a weekday rather than a weekend. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering a better chance of finding a parking spot without the weekend rush.
The Call of Sedona: Journey of the Heart This richly illustrated New York Times bestseller and word-of-mouth-phenomenon takes readers on a journey through the magical landscape of Sedona, illuminating the path to self-discovery and opening readers to a higher purpose and potential—from one of the world’s most renowned meditation teachers.
Great Sedona Hikes Includes 60 of Sedona’s greatest hikes (the Fourth Edition contains 65 hikes) and includes many new photos, updated trail descriptions, more-detailed maps including cumulative ascent data and trail elevation profiles.
Before embarking on your adventure to the Airport Mesa Vortex, it’s essential to consider a few key factors. Sedona’s weather can vary, so be sure to check the forecast and dress accordingly. The trail to the vortex is generally suitable for most fitness levels, but it’s a good idea to be prepared with sturdy hiking shoes. You’ll also want to pack essentials such as water, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection, as well as some snacks to keep your energy up.
The Reward: Experiencing the Airport Mesa Vortex
Despite the parking challenges, the Airport Mesa Vortex experience is undoubtedly worth it. Once you’ve secured your spot for your vehicle, embarked on the short hike, and reached the vortex’s viewpoints, you’ll find yourself immersed in the serene energy of this enchanting place.
Meditate, Reflect, and Rejuvenate
The Airport Mesa Vortex is a perfect spot for meditation and self-reflection, ideal for van life enthusiasts seeking a tranquil experience. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes, and immerse yourself in the serene vibes. Many visitors, including myself, report a sense of calm and rejuvenation in this special place.
Capture the Moment
Don’t forget to capture the mesmerizing scenery, a must for van life adventurers. The stunning red rock formations against the clear Arizona sky make for incredible photo opportunities. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or just want to document your journey in the van life style, the Airport Mesa Vortex offers a picturesque backdrop.
Parking at the Airport Mesa Vortex can be an adventure in itself. Still, with the right strategy and a dash of patience, you can navigate the challenges and experience the magic of this unique destination. Arrive early, consider the longer parking option if necessary, and remember that the beauty of the vortex awaits those who persevere. Safe travels, fellow adventurers, and may your journey to the Airport Mesa Vortex be filled with both happy parking tales and moments of serenity.
Here is a 360 degree panorama of the Vortex. You can see my van below in the small parking area.
I really enjoyed my weekend in Sedona, AZ. One of my highlights was the Airport Mesa Vortex.
What is a vortex?
A vortex is considered to be an area on the earth where energy is projected out. They tend to be energized and spiritual places on the planet. Sedona has a few different vortexes.
Airport Mesa Vortex
The Airport Mesa vortex is the easiest of the vortexes in Sedona to get to and does not require any hiking. I did need to climb up to the top of a hill, but it is a very short walk.
The parking area is only a short drive from the center of Sedona so it does tend to get crowded.
If you want to be the only one there, you typically need to get there very early. I woke up early (can you tell?), arrived at 6:30 and the parking area was already full. I waited about 10 minutes for someone to come down from the top and I was able to park.
Upon hiking to the top, I found it very crowded and far from peaceful. There were 35+ folks meadering about and having conversations.
I found a spot, laid down and meditated attempting to block out the sounds of everyone and feeling the energy.
After some time, I sat up and found myself conversing with a nice gentleman. He said he came that morning at 4 a.m. so would be able to be there alone. He mentioned it is the only time you can be alone up there. He then started to leave and I went back to meditating.
I laid there, meditating and attempting to be in the moment despite the business of the place. Not 15 minutes later, I opened my eyes and found myself there completely by myself!! It was a magical moment!!
Here is a 360 degree panorama of the Vortex after everyone left!
It was great visiting with cousins in the Summit, NJ area. I love my family and am blessed to have so many cousins that all get along. Their place also provided a really good space for me to get a lot of work done. Work has been pretty intense lately having gone from a department of 5 to a department of 3. Lucky for me, I enjoy what I do and get along well with my coworkers.
I left Summit, NJ in the early afternoon after getting a good amount of work done in the morning.
Getting to Roanoke, VA from Summit, NJ was an overnight drive that was full of adventure and exploration. It turned out to be a fantastic two days in which I just went with what the Universe was throwing me.
Visiting MaidPro Morristown
i woke up early and spent the morning getting work done at my cousins place. Then I headed to meet our MaidPro Morristown owner. It was nice to catch up with her. We chatted a bit about the work I do for her, results and planning. We left and had lunch locally.
Decided to play a top ranked disc golf course not far from the MaidPro office. Nice course. Challenging through the woods with some water hazards, but enjoyable.
Around the Table Catering, Lehigh Valley, PA
It was late and I hadn’t had dinner yet. I recalled an old friend from my high school days that now owned a food truck in the Lehigh Valley. I saw online that the truck recently won the Best Food Truck in the Lehigh Valley award. I found out what time they closed, calculated the travel time and realized I could get there 5 minutes before closing. Which I did and the food was delicious. Unfortunately, my friend was not working that night. I did get to meet her husband and daughter.
My plan was to spend get as far as I could Thursday night and then find somewhere to work on the road on Friday. Dinner and the round of golf went quicker than I expected as I was a bit further along than I thought I would be. I was going to be going through the Harrisburg area around 9 PM. I recently reconnected with another old high school era friend recently and we agreed that if I ever went through Harrisburg, I would let him know. So I did. I texted him and said I’d be coming through in about an hour. He managed to get away and we met at Ever Grain Brewing Company in Camp Hill, PA. Was really great catching up with Barry. Hadn’t actually seen him in probably 30 years. We sat around and chatted for 2 hours!
Crossing the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg
I drove a few more hours, through Maryland and West Virginia, into Virginia. Then found a rest area, climbed into the back of the van and got a few hours of sleep.
It is nice to get back on the road again. It’s been a few months since the van was totaled and it took awhile to find the replacement. First stop heading out to Colorado was at my cousin’s in New Jersey. I arrived to Jersey late Friday night and took an early train into Manhattan to visit my daughter.
Took a nice 30 minute walk from Penn Station down to Washington Square Park and took a few pictures along the way.
Murray’s Bagels
What a great breakfast. These sandwiches were huge!!
After breakfast, we walked for over eight miles….
Little Island at Hudson River Park
Little Island is a unique public park located in the Hudson River at Pier 55 in Manhattan, New York City. It’s a floating park built on top of a series of mushroom-shaped pillars, creating a stunning oasis of greenery and open space on the waterfront. The park features beautiful gardens, performance spaces, walkways, and scenic views of the Hudson River and the city skyline. It’s designed to provide a tranquil and artistic retreat for visitors to enjoy various cultural events, performances, and natural beauty. Little Island has become a popular attraction in the city since its opening in 2021.
Hudson Yards
Hudson Yards is this super modern and fancy neighborhood in New York City. It’s on the west side of Manhattan and is basically a city within a city. One of the highlights there is this crazy spiral staircase called the Vessel, which is this giant sculpture you used to be able to climb. And if you’re into shopping, they’ve got a huge mall called The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards with all sorts of fancy stores. Plus, there are some cool parks and public spaces, so it’s a pretty neat place to explore in the Manhattan.
Oculus at the World Trade Center
The “Oculus at the World Trade Center” is this incredible place I visited in Lower Manhattan, New York City. It’s not your typical shopping mall; it’s more like a work of art. Imagine a massive, futuristic structure that looks a bit like a giant ribcage made of steel and glass. Inside, it’s a bustling hub where you can catch different subway lines and hop on the PATH train. It’s got a bunch of shops, cool boutiques, and places to eat, making it a pretty awesome spot to check out when you’re in the World Trade Center area.
After all that walking, I went back to my AirBnB and took a nice nap then met back up with KK and some of her friends. We took an Uber over to Brooklyn, had a nice dinner then heard some live music. Was an outstanding day!
The Bison Range is a nature reserve on the Flathead Indian Reservation in western Montana. The range was established for the conservation of American bison. It was formerly called the National Bison Range until Congress restored it to federal trust ownership for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT).
In 1908, the federal government established the National Bison Range in the middle of our treaty-reserved home, the Flathead Indian Reservation, on land taken without our consent. The bison herd there descends from a free-ranging Reservation herd started by Tribal members in the 1800’s when plains bison were near extinction. Through Public Law 116-260, Congress has now restored the Bison Range to federal trust ownership for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) so that our award-winning natural resource managers can take over as stewards of the Range’s buffalo, wildlife and land. We are working with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to transition from federal to Tribal management.
It was a chilly day with scattered rain. Between the wildlife and the scenery, I found the drive through the reservation amazing!
Bison on the Range
As we drove up through the reservation, we spotted some bison off in the distance. We were so excited when we saw that last one so close! Then we saw this!!
Hiking in the Bison Range
There was a short hike at the top of the drive. Although it was a bit chilly, the hike with my cousins was very enjoyable and the scenery was amazing. We brought our bear spray with us!
Other wildlife
We were treated to some other wildlife as we drove through the Bison range. There was a herd of elk and off in the distance, a large elk with a huge set of antlers. My cousins had been here a few times prior but never saw as much wildlife as we saw that day. We live in an amazing world.
This was easily one of the most beautiful and scenic road trips I’ve taken on any of my van life travels. The first third of the trip followed along the Payette River and then it headed into the mountains. I made a few stops along the way including an oil change, coffee, some places that were too beautiful to just drive by, White Bird Battle Historical Monument and my first taste of a Huckelberry pie. Unfortunately, the last half of the drive was after dark so I didn’t get to see much at that point.
Driving along the Payette River.
Huckleberry Pie in Lucile, ID
I saw this place and decided to stop. I’d never had huckleberries before and thought this would be a good place to get some. The man working the counter was very friendly and helpful when I asked him about the fruit. He went into the back and cut me a slice of a new, fresh pie! Tastes like blueberry.
White Bird Battlefield Overlook – Nez Perce National Historical Park
On June 17, 1877, Captain David Perry and his troops moved into the canyon to strike the Nimiipuu (Nez Perce) who were sheltering in one of their winter villages. The soldiers encountered a peace party of six warriors carrying a white flag riding towards them. A civilian volunteer shot twice at the peace party and the battle began. The U.S. cavalry was defeated with heavy losses and the Nimiipuu began their long journey to find safety and sanctuary.
Another sad story about the white man’s mistreatment of Native Americans.
During my Boise, ID visit, I immersed myself in the vibrant city for two exciting days. While the daylight hours were dedicated to work at my cozy AirBnB, I couldn’t resist the allure of Boise’s attractions, prompting me to venture out and dive into the local wonders.
Freak Alley Gallery
Freak Alley Gallery, located in Boise, is the largest open-air mural gallery in the northwest. In 2002, the first drawing was created by Colby Akers on the back alley doorway of Moon’s Cafe. Now, the murals and graffiti-inspired artwork extend well beyond the single doorway; artwork can be seen throughout the entire alley. I enjoyed walking down this Boise alley.
Julia Davis Park
During my visit to Julia Davis Park in Boise, Idaho, I had the opportunity to explore its diverse attractions. The serene ambiance of the park provided a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and relaxation. As I wandered through the park, I couldn’t miss the poignant Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, which stands as a powerful symbol of hope, tolerance, and human rights. It was a moving experience to reflect upon the legacy of Anne Frank and the lessons her diary continues to teach us. Just a stone’s throw away, I also encountered the impressive Abraham Lincoln statue, a towering tribute to the 16th President of the United States. The statue’s grandeur served as a reminder of our nation’s history and the enduring values of freedom and unity. My visit to Julia Davis Park was a harmonious blend of natural beauty, contemplation, and historical reverence, making it a memorable stop in my Boise exploration.
Abraham Lincoln was very large.
Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial
The Basque Block
It was explained to me while in Boise…the Basque settled the area. I ate Basque for lunch and walked down the Basque Block.
The Basque Block in Boise is a captivating cultural enclave offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Basque people. Here, you can savor traditional Basque cuisine, attend lively festivals celebrating Basque culture, and explore unique shops. The Basque Cultural Center, housed in the historic “Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga Boarding House,” serves as both a museum and a cultural hub, providing valuable insights into the history and traditions of the Basque people in Boise. With events, sports, and a vibrant atmosphere, the Basque Block is a must-visit destination that enriches your understanding of this unique cultural heritage in Boise.
Capital of Idaho, Boise
During my visit to Boise, I had the chance to explore the capital area, which serves as a testament to the city’s unique character. As the capital of Idaho, Boise gracefully combines urban conveniences with the allure of the great outdoors. While strolling through the capital grounds, I encountered a delightful surprise – a replica of the Liberty Bell. With curiosity getting the best of me, I gave its clapper a playful swing, unwittingly causing a resounding ring that echoed through the area. A moment of embarrassment quickly turned into laughter as I moved on from the surprisingly loud Liberty Bell encounter. It seems that Liberty Bell replicas are a common sight at many of the state capitals I’ve visited, each one offering its own unique charm and unexpected surprises.
Lewis and Clark asking where the parking garage is….. in Boise, ID.
MaidPro Boise, ID
Boise is happy to have MaidPro in town. It was nice to visit the MaidPro Boise office.
Westside Drive In, Boise, ID
During my travels to Boise, Idaho, I had the delightful opportunity to savor an unusual yet mouthwatering treat known as the ice cream potato. This delectable creation, which I stumbled upon at Westside Drive In
, is a local favorite that combines the sweetness of ice cream with the appearance of a potato. The surprise of the creamy, ice-cold dessert inside a potato-shaped chocolate shell was a delightful culinary adventure. What’s even more remarkable is that Westside Drive In, where I enjoyed this unique dessert, was conveniently located just down the street from my treehouse accommodation. If only I had known earlier, I could have taken a leisurely walk to this famous Boise establishment. Notably, Westside Drive In’s reputation has soared to new heights, earning it a feature on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” This iconic Boise spot is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
An ice cream potato while visiting in Boise….. and it was delicious!
Boise, with its vibrant urban atmosphere and scenic surroundings, proved to be an ideal blend of history, nature, and memorable experiences during my visit.
It was another full travel day going about 200 miles from Craters of the Moon in Idaho, where I camped the night before, to Boise, ID. I originally did not have Boise on my trip, however, my cousin in Missoula asked if I minded coming a few days later. Boise was the obvious way to add a few more days.
North Crater Trail to the Spatter Cones Hike
I woke up before the sun came up and decided to find a hike before heading out on the road. Craters of the Moon was not originally on my itinerary so I wanted to explore a little. I found a 1.9 mile hike along the North Crater Trail which ended at spatter cones. I had no idea what a spatter cone was but was going to find out. 1.9 miles would be perfect as it was a nice hike but not too long. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize it was not a 1.9 loop…. it was 1.9 one way.
I thought this was cool. You can see where the lava flowed into this area.
You can see the ripples in the lava that flowed into this area.
This is a spatter cone. A spatter cone is a small, steep-sided volcanic cone built up around a vent where escaping gases blow out chunks of molten lava.
I walked the path up into the spatter cone. Very cool stuff. Like being on a different planet.
I walked on this path along the rim. The sun was just right that when I got to a certain point, my shadow was cast across to the other side. You can see the shadow of my legs and me waving back at myself from over there. One of my favorite pictures and a fun little moment.
Breakfast at Timmerman Junction Rest Area – Idaho
There weren’t alot of places along my drive to stop to get something to eat so decided to take the time and cook myself a breakfast. It was such a beautiful day out as I found myself in Idaho. After my 4 mile walk this morning it was a really nice, peaceful and relaxing stop.
Kathryn Albertson Park – Boise, ID
I stopped at another rest area a few hours in to take a little nap since I was going to be arriving in Boise too early to check into my AirBnB. I still arrived a little early so opted to go to one of the parks that were on my list in Boise. Kathryn Albertson Park was really beautiful. There were lots of great little spots to look out at water and greenery. There was a wedding reception going on in one spot and, although it was Sunday, stopped at another to sit and do a little work.
My Home in Boise, ID
Arrived at my AirBnB in Boise in time to relax, kick back and watch the Patriots play. This is one of my favorite AirBnB’s I’ve stayed in. I had the entire place and it was clean and comfortable with a slider that went out to a small porch. The neighborhood was beautiful and so peaceful to walk around. They call it Pat’s Treehouse because it sits up high, making it feel as if one were in a tree house.
The humor did not get past me of sitting in Pat’s Treehouse watching the Pat’s in a Treehouse.
