Archives July 2024

Tombstone, Arizona, a town etched into the annals of American history, captivated me with its authentic Old West allure during my recent visit. As a fan of the classic movie Tombstone, stepping into this iconic setting was like walking onto a film set brought to life.

The Oriental Saloon

One of the highlights of my visit to Tombstone was stepping into The Oriental Saloon, a historic watering hole steeped in tales of the Old West. Originally established in 1880, The Oriental Saloon quickly became a hub for cowboys, miners, and gamblers seeking respite from the rugged frontier life. Legends like Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and Bat Masterson were known to frequent this very establishment, adding layers of intrigue to its storied past.

As I walked through its swinging doors, the atmosphere of The Oriental Saloon enveloped me in a blend of nostalgia and authenticity. The weathered wooden bar, worn by generations of patrons, whispered secrets of bygone eras. Sitting down to enjoy a cold beer, I couldn’t help but envision the spirited conversations and card games that once animated these walls. It was a moment of immersion in history, where each sip brought me closer to the frontier spirit that defined Tombstone’s golden age.

The OK Corral

One of the most intriguing spots I explored in Tombstone was the OK Corral, forever immortalized in Western lore and popular culture. It was amusing for me to realize that my first encounter with the OK Corral was actually through an early Star Trek episode, underscoring its iconic status in American history. Stepping into the corral, I was surrounded by relics of the Old West—old saddles, weathered cowboy hats, and other artifacts that transported me back to the days of Wyatt Earp and the Clantons.

Inside the corral itself, mannequins vividly recreated the pivotal moments of the infamous gunfight, an event that defined the lawlessness of the frontier era. While somewhat corny, these displays offered a glimpse into the dramatic clash that unfolded here over a century ago. During my visit, I caught a live reenactment of the gunfight, albeit briefly, and it was clear that the audience relished in the historical drama unfolding before them. It was a fascinating blend of entertainment and education, showcasing Tombstone’s commitment to preserving its colorful past for generations to come.

• See my TikTok video featuring the OK Corral in Tombstone, AZ

The Crystal Palace and Big Nose Kate’s

Music played a significant role in my experience exploring Tombstone. At Big Nose Kate’s and The Crystal Palace, the strains of live music filled the air, adding a vibrant energy to the historic streets. These venues, steeped in history, not only entertained but also transported me back to a time when saloons were the heart of social life in the West. If you visit Tombstone, don’t miss the chance to explore these establishments fully. At The Crystal Palace, for instance, be sure to venture upstairs to the rooftop deck, where you can enjoy panoramic views up and down the bustling street below. It’s the perfect vantage point to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps catch a glimpse of the next performance. You can see some of the live music I enjoyed during my visit in this video.

• See my Google review of the Crystal Palace Saloon

The OK Cafe

The following morning, I started my day at the OK Cafe, enjoying a hearty breakfast amidst the rustic charm of a town waking up. The friendly atmosphere and hearty fare set the perfect tone for exploring more of Tombstone’s rich history. This was a good place to start the day. The food was good and the coffee was strong!

Boothill Graveyard

I walked through Boot Hill Cemetery, taking in the weathered gravestones and reading the epitaphs that spoke of the lives and deaths of Tombstone’s early inhabitants. Each marker seemed to tell a story, and the guidebook available at the entrance provided fascinating details about the individuals laid to rest there. One of the most famous gravesites is that of Lester Moore, immortalized with the epitaph seen at the beginning of the Tombstone movie: “Here Lies Lester Moore, Four Slugs from a 44, No Les, No More.” It was surreal to stand where history and Hollywood intersect, reminding me of the colorful characters and sometimes violent past that define Tombstone’s legacy.

• See my Google review of the Boothill Graveyard, Tombstone, AZ
• Take a walk with this YouTube video, through Boothill Graveyard
• See my TikTok video about Boothill Graveyard in Tombstone

What struck me most about Tombstone was its commitment to preserving its heritage. From the meticulously maintained historic buildings to the engaging reenactments and informative tours, the town has successfully captured the essence of a bygone era.

If you’re planning your own Arizona adventure, I highly recommend adding Tombstone to your itinerary. Explore more of my travels through the Grand Canyon State:

• Check out some Tombstone Souvenirs in my Arizona Etsy Shop
• Check out Tombstone designs on my Tombstone Pinterest Page

Walking the streets of Tombstone, I couldn’t help but appreciate how it has retained its old-world charm while welcoming modern-day visitors. Whether you’re a history buff or simply drawn to tales of the Wild West, Tombstone promises an unforgettable journey back in time.

Recently, I had the pleasure of inspiring my niece, who works remotely, to embark on a remarkable road trip across the American West. Armed with her dog and a sense of adventure, she set out from Columbus, OH.

Her first night spent at a charming Hipcamp on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border. From there, she ventured into the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park, where encounters with bison left an indelible mark on her journey.

Her next stop was Wall Drug, a famous roadside attraction that turned out to be more of a tourist trap than a genuine experience, prompting a quick departure towards the tranquility of Black Hills National Forest. A visit to Buffalo, Wyoming, revealed a hidden gem of a town that added a touch of local charm to her travels.

One of the most memorable moments came in Bighorn National Forest, where she woke to the sight of a majestic moose strolling past her car—a testament to the unexpected joys of the open road. Finally, she crossed into Utah, where the landscapes seemed to stretch endlessly before her, marking the culmination of a journey filled with wonder, discovery, and the freedom to explore at her own pace.

Her adventure serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best journeys are the ones where we set aside the familiar comforts of home, embrace the unknown, and let the road lead us to new experiences and unforgettable memories. I can’t wait to see where she goes next!

Arizona has been a frequent stop on my cross-country travels, and every visit leaves me with more stories to tell. I’ve crisscrossed this diverse state, from the lively streets of Tucson to the crisp mountain air of Flagstaff, the bustling vibe of Phoenix, and the mystical allure of Sedona’s red rocks. Even smaller towns like Yuma and Tombstone have their own unique tales. Casa Grande surprised me with a fun little overnight stop, and nothing quite matched the thrill of rafting through the Grand Canyon for 14 days with my family. Quartzite stands out as well, with its expansive acres of BLM land where countless van lifers gather. I enjoy stopping here to simply sit in the desert, soak in the solitude, and connect with fellow travelers embracing the van life. Standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, made famous by the Eagles song, was a surreal moment that added a touch of musical nostalgia to my travels. This blog post will share some of my favorite moments and experiences from my Arizona stops.

• See my Arizona Souvenir Ideas at my Etsy store
• View Arizona videos in my YouTube Arizona Playlist
• Check out my Arizona Pinterest board featuring my Arizona designs
• See my Arizona Playlist on TikTok

Yuma, Arizona

I made a pit stop in Yuma on my way to California at the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park. The museum portion of the State Park showcased histories of inmates and the gear they used, including cuffs and other artifacts—it was all very interesting. The prison only operated for a short 33 years, 1876 – 1909. Walking through the cemetery with its unmarked graves—just piles of rocks—left me pondering the harsh realities faced by the prisoners. I even ventured into some of the cells, imagining what life must have been like in such a formidable place. After leaving the park, I hopped on the highway but realized I needed gas. Since Yuma is right on the border, I found myself in California. Luckily Yuma is right on the border because when I saw the prices in California, I quickly turned back to Yuma to fill the tank!

• Check out my Google Review for Yuma Territorial Prison, Yuma, Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona

I’ve had a few stops in Phoenix over the years, but one visit that stands out vividly was during the Super Bowl frenzy when the Eagles were playing. Coming from San Diego, I decided on a whim to head to Phoenix—it wasn’t too far and promised excitement. I found myself at the Super Bowl watch party hosted by the NFL in Hance Park, downtown Phoenix. Hance Park is a vibrant urban park known for its green spaces, cultural events, and stunning views of the city skyline. The atmosphere was electric, the weather perfect, and being surrounded by fellow football fans made it an unforgettable day. I also had a great parking spot right outside the front gate so I was able to get out to the van easily throughout the day and night!

• Check out my Google Review for Margaret T. Hance Park

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson holds a special place in my heart, not just for its vibrant culture and beautiful desert landscapes, but for its iconic Sonoran hot dogs. These delectable treats are a true taste of the Southwest, featuring a bacon-wrapped hot dog served in a soft bolillo roll, topped with pinto beans, grilled onions and peppers, fresh tomatoes, salsa verde, mayonnaise, and mustard. It’s a flavor explosion that captures the essence of Tucson’s culinary scene.

During my visits, I made it a mission to sample Sonoran hot dogs from some of the best spots in town. El Sinoloense Hot Dog Cart, El Guero Canelo and BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs. I think El Sinoloense was my favorite. Here’s my TicTok post from that visit.

@travels_with_martin

El Sinaloense Hot Dog Cart, Tucson, AZ #sonoranhotdogstucsonaz #sonoranhotdogs #sonoranhotdog #tucsonarizonafood #tucsonaz🌵 #tucsonarizona🌄 #visitingarizona #explorearizona🌵 #travelswithmartin #vanlife #foryoupage #fyp

♬ Hot Dog (Remaster) – Led Zeppelin

• Check out my Google Review for El Einaloense Hot Dog Cart, Tucson, AZ

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona always enchants me, especially my visit to Airport Mesa. Known for its stunning vistas and as a vortex site, Airport Mesa was bustling with nearly fifty people when I arrived, some distracted by the lively energy, kids running around, and tourists snapping photos. Despite the initial chaos, I sought out a quieter spot and settled into meditation. The serene silence eventually enveloped me, allowing me to connect with the energy of the vortex. When I opened my eyes, the once bustling area was unexpectedly empty, and I was left in awe of the expansive red rock landscape stretched out before me. It was a profound moment of solitude and connection, reminding me of Sedona’s mystical allure and the transformative power of its vortex sites.

• See my Google review of Airport Mesa Vortex in Sedona, AZ

Quartzite, Arizona

Quartzsite, Arizona, situated in the western part of the state near the California border, is famed for its extensive Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. BLM land, federally managed public areas, attracts van lifers and RV enthusiasts for its freedom to camp and explore. Often described as acres upon acres of vans and RVs scattered across the desert, Quartzsite offers a serene escape. During my brief visits, I cherished the simplicity of sitting amidst the expansive desert landscape, enjoying the peace and quiet. Planning to return for a longer stay this winter, I look forward to immersing myself further in Quartzsite’s tranquil desert ambiance. On both visits, I found solace in the calm surroundings, spending days working, reading, and strumming my guitar outdoors, and evenings sharing stories around a campfire with fellow van lifers.

• Check out the full moon at Quartzite, AZ during one of my trips.

Tombstone, Arizona

Visiting Tombstone, AZ, was a highlight of my Arizona journey, especially as a fan of the movie Tombstone starring Kurt Russell, which captures much of the town’s historical events. Arriving early allowed me to explore iconic spots like the Bird Cage Theatre and the bars frequented by the Earp brothers, such as Big Nose Kate’s and the Crystal Palace, immersing myself in Old West history. Walking through the OK Corral was a surreal experience, bringing to life the legendary gunfight. The town’s vibrant atmosphere continued into the evening with live music, adding to the charm of one of my favorite Arizona destinations. (Check out some clips of the live music in Tombstone below)

@travels_with_martin

Live music in Tombatone, AZ. Crystal Palace Saloon and Big Nose Kate’s Saloon #crystalpalacesaloon #bignosekate #bignosekatessaloon #arizonalivemusic #livemusicscene #tombstonearizona #tombstoneaz #visitarizona #travelswithmartin #vanlife #foryoupage #fyp

♬ La Grange (2019 Remaster) – ZZ Top

• See my Google review for The Crystal Palace Saloon, Tombstone, Arizona
• See my Google review for Big Nose Kate’s in Tombstone, Arizona

Flagstaff, Arizona

Exploring Flagstaff is always a nostalgic journey for me, not just because of its Route 66 charm but also because of the family ties I have there. It’s a town where history meets modern fun—a perfect blend. I’ve savored delicious burgers at Diablo Burger downtown and enjoyed playing at open mic nights at The Museum Club, affectionately known as The Zoo, a historic gem with its own tales to tell. Hotel Monte Vista is another favorite haunt, where I’ve relaxed with a beer and imagined scenes from Casablanca filmed right there. Flagstaff’s disc golf courses have also been a great find, offering scenic views and challenging play. It’s a town that keeps me coming back for its rich history and vibrant energy.

• See my Google review of The Museum Club in Flagstaff, AZ

Winslow, Arizona

In Winslow, AZ, a must-stop for any classic rock fan traveling Route 66, I couldn’t resist pausing to stand on the corner immortalized by the Eagles’ song. There’s a statue commemorating Don Henley and Glenn Frey, alongside a flatbed Ford, capturing the spirit of the iconic lyrics. The town exudes nostalgia with its souvenir shops and the unmistakable strains of Eagles songs drifting through the air—a true homage to rock ‘n’ roll history right on Main Street.

• See my Google Review for “Standin on the Corner” in Winslow, AZ
• Got out of town just before a windstorm came in!

Casa Grande, Arizona

In Casa Grande, AZ, I stumbled upon a pleasant surprise during a stopover on my journey. Finding a safe downtown parking spot, I explored the unique Casa Grande Neon Sign Park, a vibrant display of restored neon signs that illuminate the city’s history. These signs have been meticulously preserved from local businesses of yesteryears, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Casa Grande’s commercial past. Each sign tells a story of the community’s vibrant culture and entrepreneurial spirit, making the park not just a historical attraction but a living testament to the city’s heritage.

• See my Google Review of the Neon Sign Park in Casa Grande, AZ

Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon

Embarking on a 14-day journey down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on my soul. Completely unplugged from the digital world, it was a true escape into nature’s embrace. Each day brought new wonders as we navigated through towering canyon walls, camped under a blanket of stars, and drifted along the serene river currents. The absence of phones and computers allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment, soaking in the sheer magnificence of this natural wonder. It was more than just a river trip; it was a journey of profound connection with the land, the river, and the timeless beauty of the Grand Canyon.

• See my Google Review for AZRA – Arizona Rafting Adventures
• Check out my video of Red Wall Canyon at the bottom of the Grand Canyon!

After my mini van was totaled, finding the right replacement took some time (see my post: The Journey From Minivan to Ford Transit Van). Eventually, I settled on a Ford Transit, which became the canvas for my van life adventures. With a tight timeline before heading to Arizona for a family rafting trip down the Colorado River, I had to quickly prepare the van for living on the road. The goal was functionality over luxury.

Bed-Couch Setup:

The centerpiece of my van conversion was the bed-couch hybrid. I repurposed an old futon to create a versatile seating and sleeping area. This setup allowed me to fold the futon up into a couch during the day, providing a comfortable space to relax and socialize. At night, it unfolded into a bed, ensuring a restful sleep under the stars or in urban settings.

Utilizing Existing Features:

The Ford Transit, originally a Home Depot delivery van, came equipped with metal strapping points along the interior walls. Instead of bolting new fixtures, I took advantage of these existing features to secure my bed frame, shelf, and other components. This approach not only saved time but also ensured flexibility for future modifications without the need for major structural changes.

Removing the Divider Door:

To improve accessibility and airflow within the van, I replaced the heavy door separating the back and front cabs with a simple curtain. This modification not only opened up the space but also eliminated the hassle of dealing with a swinging door. It made the interior feel more spacious and adaptable to different living conditions on the road.

Kitchen Setup:

Creating a functional kitchen area was essential for preparing meals and staying self-sufficient. I built a sturdy shelf using plywood to support my portable Coleman stove. This setup provided a stable platform for cooking, whether I was parked lakeside or in the midst of desert terrain. Along with the stove, I installed a basic sink with a drain, facilitating daily tasks such as washing dishes and brushing teeth. With gallons of stored water, I had the essentials covered without needing a complex plumbing system.

Additional Upgrades:

Beyond the essentials, I invested in a Jackery Battery unit to power lights and a new electric cooler, upgrading from a smaller model used in my previous van. I hated having to constantly replace ice and deal with ‘floating’ food. This setup ensured I had reliable electricity for extended trips, enhancing comfort and convenience on the road.

Conclusion:

My journey to outfit my Ford Transit for van life was a blend of practicality and creativity. From the DIY bed-couch setup to optimizing the kitchen and electrical systems, each modification was aimed at enhancing comfort and functionality.

Follow along for more updates on my van life adventures and converting my mobile oasis on wheels. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or seeking inspiration for minimalist living, there’s always something new to discover in the world of van life.