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Exploring the spicy flavors of New Mexico

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 Some Like It Hot!  

There is absolutely nothing like all the spicy delicacies of New Mexico! But what makes the delicacies of New Mexico different? They are unique in that most meals revolve around the humble chile. It is not Tex-Mex, Cal-Mex, or even Mexican. It is a magnificent blending of flavors revolving around chili peppers. In the above photo, you see a dish of black beans topped with tomato’s, onions, shrimp, green chile, and a squeeze of lime. Now that is yummy!

New Mexican food is a breed all it’s own? Have you ever had a cheese burger with extra real cheese, and a healthy topping of chilies? Two things are a must, good quality real cheese and chile. Is it possible to even eat without the humble vegetable called chile?

And then there are Sopapillas. Sopapillas are very versatile and can be eaten any time of the day.  You make a pie crust and roll out. Cut in about 3-4 inch squares and fill with eggs. Deep fry in a quality oil. Breakfast is ready. If you want lunch or dinner, just fill with any meat and fry. Serve hot smothered with chilies. And an all time favorite anytime is to fry and just let them puff up, but no filling. Then dip in honey while hot. What could be better? They are amazing!

Is there a special occasion in your life? Let’s celebrate with Green Chile Stew. Need your favorite comfort food, most likely it will be Green Chile Stew. Whatever the need, whatever the occasion, there is Green Chile Stew. You can use any meat, just cut in cubes and flour well using Masa Harina. Then brown well. Place in a soup pot and add onions, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, beef broth, lots of chopped green Chile peppers and spices. Generally cumin, garlic, oregano, cilantro, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt are used as spices. Put in a large stew pot and cook slowly for around 8-10 hours. You can also use a slow cooker on low, if you prefer. Most homes have Green Chile Stew made up and ready for any need. Who knows who might come to dinner, but no problem, there is Green Chile Stew.

When wandering the streets of any community in New Mexico you may come across families selling tamales, burritos, ect out of their van. Most likely those will be the best that money can buy, that is where the locals shop. So stock up and eat like a king.

Traveling to New Mexico? Why not plan a food adventure? I only mentioned a few of the favorite dishes eaten in most every home, but there are endless specialties to taste. There is nothing else that can compare to these special edible treasures of New Mexico. There is no better time to plan a New Mexican Food Adventure! Here is a guide to plan your adventure backpacking trip to New Mexico.

 

 

 

 

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The Spectacular Blooming Yucca Of The New Mexico Desert

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 The Beautiful Yucca Blossoms Of The Desert 

The Yucca Plant is the official State Flower of New Mexico. This beautiful succulent is a member of the Lily family with what seems an endless supply of white or purple flowers on very long stems. The leaves are very stiff and pointed with a tip like a sharp needle. In some cultures, this tip has been made into sewing needles for the busy homemaker.  Extracts from the root of the Yucca are used by alternative practitioners. Its sap is used as a soap for skin conditions,and a shampoo for troubled hair that is balding or has other medical conditions. Some use it as a dietary supplement.

The Yucca Plant For Cleanliness

The root of this native plant of the Southwest has so many uses in an emergency. In any emergency, cleanliness is always an issue. When cleanliness is lacking, disease will flourish.  So how do you use use the Yucca plant as soap? Join us in the adventure of desert soap making.

First you need to locate a small to medium Yucca growing on a hill, if possible. This makes it easier to miss the sharp needle ends. Then you dig up the root and peel back the bark until about an inch from the top. Cut off the top here and replant, much like you would a pineapple fruit. With the other end, you get a flat rock and pound the end till it flares out and it is ready. Wet your hands and rub with the root. Soon you will see soap suds in your hands. Wet the area you are washing and then apply the pounded root. Then rinse off well. Amazingly, you have now taken a bath with the help of the Yucca.

To make shampoo, you let the root dry out and pound to a powder. Then you wet your hair and apply some of the powder. Your hair will be clean, silky, and you will have used no chemicals. You also did not need to go buy Organic Shampoo without chemicals. This is yet another gift from the desert. What a beautiful answer to life’s simple needs.

The Yucca Plant For Food

The beautiful bell shaped flowers mature in three parts that turn brown in the late summer. If you find yourself stranded in the desert, these small fruits are tasty and full of nourishment. They are often added to soups, as all parts of the Yucca must be cooked for safety.

The root of the Yucca, like potatoes, must be cooked. It is usually boiled until about half done and then drained, rinsed, and cooled. When cool enough to handle, slice like you would potatoes and fry. They are served as a side dish. They are usually only used as food in the Spanish countries and some isolated desert tribes. Since they are toxic when raw, most Americans avoid them.  Just like potatoes, Yuccas can cause reactions in some people. Those who choose to eat them, say like potatoes, they are quite a tasty side dish on the table when cooked correctly.

Other Uses For The Yucca Plant

After the beautiful flowers are gone and the fruits have been eaten, there is a long stalk left on the plant. You can use the second year stalks that are not dry to start fires. just rub between your hands and they work quite well. The dry or dead stalks can be used like kindling to get the fire going strong.

Native American living in the desert also used the leaves for making belts and sandals. It can also be woven into cloth, used to make baskets, and even used in making ropes and belts.  There seems to be no part that is not used by someone somewhere. What an amazing native desert plant.

Conclusions

This beautiful State Flower Of New Mexico is a wondrous sight blooming in the desert. But as you enjoy the beauty of this native desert succulent, think about all the other ways that this plant is used. No part is wasted in cultures that choose to use it’s every part.

 

 

 

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Historic Bell Tower in Balboa Park San Diego California USA

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  Historic Bell Tower in Balboa Park

Climb to the top of San Diego’s Historic Bell Tower in Balboa Park for a breathtaking view. The view of San Diego is utterly magnificent. It is as if you can see forever. The beautiful san Diego Bay with it’s deep blue water and white capped waves blend with the deep blue sky and fluffy white clouds. The city seems to go on forever with it’s many tall and spectacular skyscrapers. The green cars of the San Diego Zoo dance across the landscape. This is one of the most amazing views of San Diego! This spectacular and historic bell tower has been at the entrance of Balboa Park since it’s inception in 1915. It’s clear and beautiful bells ring out each quarter of an hour throughout the day and night. Since 1915, they have never ceased to keep the time in the park. The bell tower sits next to the California Building, where you will find much information on the anthropology of California. It climbs another 200 feet beyond the California Building into the beautiful San Diego sky. The historic bell tower is magnificent. Only recently has the bell tower been open to the public. It was closed to the public in 1935.

You may buy tickets either in person or online for the tour of the bell tower. There is a safety briefing 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. If you are late for your briefing, you will not be allowed to go on your tour. Tickets are not refundable.

The tower is reached from the second floor of the museum. After entering the hidden staircase, you will climb seven floors. As you climb you will see little glimpses of heaven through the many narrow windows of the bell tower. On the seventh level, you will climb a metal winding staircase and emerge out into the California sunlight. What a magnificent view!

If you are looking for a local San Diego adventure, why not come on over to Balboa Park. Southern California is a play ground of Amusement Parks. But even in this priceless playground, it is wonderful to slow down and enjoy the beauty of San Diego’s famous Balboa Park. There is not only the Bell Tower, but the architecture of all the buildings are historic and amazing. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are also in it’s own area of the park. There are several small museums and the famous Museum of Man, Balboa Park is fun for the whole family. Be sure to climb to the top of the Bell Tower, you can see forever! It is unique! The view……it is priceless!

 

 

ExploreTraveler has been creating travel articles, books, videos, and podcasts for several years now. It is our intention to bring our older material for others here to enjoy, and to create new material here as well. We invite you to click on our links to the original content, and to also follow us there as well.

This post was originally published on Jan. 20, 2016 at:

https://exploretraveler.com/historic-bell-tower-in-balboa-park/

 

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It’s A Theme Park Wonderland In Southern California USA

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Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Ride At Toontown

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Ride At Mickey’s Toontown At Disneyland What child doesn’t enjoy all the adventures of Toontown. Mickey is everywhere and he is on hand to welcome you to Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland, In Southern California USA. Toontown is a theme park with the craziest architecture with unique and fascinating sculptures. Many of your old favorites call toontown home, like Minnie and of course Mickey himself is ready to welcome you to his home. There is lots to do, as you climb the crazy structures and ride the unique rides. If you are ready for a crazy adventure, join us in Toontown at Disney California USA.

 

“It’s The Season Of The Force”

Star Wars In Tomorrowland At Disneyland

Tomorrowland is a glimpse of the future today. Get ready to greet Star Wars, as you are greated by “the Force.”

A Christmas Fantasy Parade

At Disneyland there is always a reason for a parade, no matter the season. Here we see Mickey leading the way in Disneyland California USA.

 Which one do I choose? 

At Hollywood Pictures Backlot in Disneyland California USA

  Grizzly Peak Rafting Adventure At Disney

If you yearn for a white water adventure, then  Disney’s California Grizzly Mountain is waiting to add some old fashioned water rafting experiences to your day.

 LEGOLAND Water Park Fun In Carlsbad, Southern California USA 

Calling all Lego fans……It is time for a Legoland Adventure. The above picture shows the water park that is a favorite of the under 12 age group. With some sections really shallow for the tots, and others deeper for the older children, it is a perfect spot for the family to have a fun day in the water.

 LEGO Legends Of CHIMA Water Park In Carlsbad, California USA

While one side was themed with all the regular Legoland themes, this side is spiced up with slides, lions, crocodiles,  and many other talking beasts. You’ll find all your Chima friends here at the Chima Water Park.

  The Journey to Atlantis 

The journey to Atlantis has arrived at Sea World San Diego Southern California USA. Climb aboard this unique and fun water coaster and let the fun begin at Sea World in San Diego.

Welcome To Sea World In San Diego California USA

 Anaheim California Is Magical

Anaheim is one of those places where everywhere you look there is excitement in the air. Anaheim is home to Disney California Adventure Park, Knots Berry Farm, Jungle Cruise,Disneyland,Adventure City, Six Flags, and many other smaller but unique parks. Southern California often seems like an endless supply of theme parks. Some of the worlds best are between Anaheim and San Diego. Anaheim, Santa Clarita, and Los Angeles all have major Six Flags Amusement Parks. Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park in Los Angeles county. San Diego has Sea World with it’s fantastic Marine Animal Park, Amusement Park, and Water Park. San Diego is one of those magical cities where there is adventure at every turn. There is lots of fun in the sun in San Diego.

No matter where you go in Southern California, excitement and adventure are waiting. So come on out and get some of the beautiful California Sunshine, while you explore the many exciting adventures waiting for you in Suthern California USA.

 

 

 

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A Photo Tour Of Southeastern New Mexico By Explore Traveler

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 The Torreon In Lincoln, New Mexico 

Welcome to Lincoln, New Mexico where time has stood still. Walk the streets of Lincoln and step out into the wild wild west of yesterday, where the the Mexican American settlers  took refuge during the attacks by the  Mescalero Apaches.  Spanish settlers built the Torreon in Lincoln, New Mexico in the 1850s for protection against Apache Indian attacks.

It was here that such men as Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett left their marks. It was in Lincoln, that Indians, Mexican American settlers, gunfighters and politicians made themselves recognized. Many died and many gunfighters got more notches on their belt. You will walk the dusty alleys that made many famous and others walked no more.

An Old Schoolhouse/Church  In Lincoln In Lincoln, New Mexico 

  Billy The Kid, Pat Garrett,Many Others Made This Place A Legend In Lincoln, New Mexico 

 Storm Clouds Over The High Desert City Of Albuquerque, New Mexico 

 19th Century Mission Church Of San Isidro In The Zuni Mountains 

Of West-Central New Mexico  

As the sun sets on our adventures in New Mexico, we take time to reflect on all the living history. We have walked the streets that Billy The Kid walked. We have re-lived the history of the old wild west.

 

 

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A Winter Wonderland In Northern Maine USA

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 A Snow Filled Winter In The Baskahegan Valley In Northern Maine  

The early pioneer families that settled in this beautiful valley would farm in the summer months, saving produce for the long winter months. During the winter months, the men took to  the forest and logging was their passion. One of the favorite trees for this endeavor was the Pumpkin Pines, which were easy to haul since they were close to the streams and other waterways. Old diaries talk about the stumps being so large that a team of Oxen could stand on the stump. At one time, Northern Maine was the logging capital of the world.

With the easy supply of lumber, you will see many beautiful mansions in Northern Maine. Take a winter tour in a horse driven buggy and see all the beautiful houses as they lay buried in the white stuff.  Just outside of the towns are resorts with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. Take time to enjoy winter like never before.

 Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge In Maine Is One Of The Northernmost National Wildlife Refuges On The Atlantic  Seaboard

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge has activities year around. There are year around Moose Tours, where you are guaranteed to see a moose, fishing tours, ice fishing trips, hunting in the different seasons, hiking, climbing, wildlife viewing and photography. As the ponds ice over, there is ice skating, as well as near by resorts with a full range of winter activities. If you have never been in an area where you could enjoy winter to the max, you are in for many surprises.

This is a main refuge for migrating birds of all kinds. Here, they are able to feed and nest in a protected area. During different times of the year, you will see birds of prey, waterfowl,song birds and many others. If you enjoy bird watching, this is an excellent place for a bird adventure.

 The Elegant Patterns Of Ice Crystals Are A Growing Masterpiece On Glass  

Can you imagine waking up and looking out the window and seeing ice crystal masterpieces that formed on the window over night? What a delight to see the creative talent of nature. If you have never seen this, you are in for a surprise.

 Fried Haddock  Fish Sandwich Is A Year Around Favorite In Maine 

In Maine, fish sandwiches made from fresh fried Haddock is a favorite. Most eateries in the area serve this state favorite. If you have never tried one, then this is the time to order a fish sandwich made of freshly prepared Haddock. Spring, summer, fall, and winter, this is a must try when you come to Maine.

All the different seasons bring their own delightful activities in Maine. But if you want to enjoy a short winter visit, you can not find a better place than Maine.

 

 

 

 

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Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico Beckons To Beach Lovers Everywhere

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Horses, Warm Weather, And A Perfect Surf At Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico 

Rosarito is a quaint town with many luxury resorts, elegant hotels, and many first class recreational vehicle parks. This has been a mecca for short tourist get-a-ways from San Diego, California USA, being less than 30 miles away. There is also the towm of Medio Camino just south of Rosarito Beach and Baja Malibu to the north of Rosarito. This area has amazing beaches, with sandy beaches just perfect for horseback riding and a strong surf perfect for catching that next wave.

Surfing The Internet In Style At Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico 

Almost anything can be seen south of the border. Horseback riding is a major sight in Baja California, so much so, it seems some people have real skills. This young man was trotting down the sandy beach surfing the internet. Now that takes skill!

 Endless excitement at Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico

The town of Rosarito is a quaint  tourist town that Americans flock to by the thousands. With it’s outstanding beaches, and first class resorts at reasonable rates, it is a magnate for the retired. People on medicare, can hop back into the US for medical care and return home to paradise. All this helps in making tourists from north of the border content and comfortable.

 Romantic Shores Of Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico 

Rosarito beaches are beautiful any time of the day. The sunsets over the ocean are spectacular. Couples walk hand in hand down the beach. Romance is in the air.

Another fun place to visit is the Rosarito Underwater Park which is located just offshore.  The park features an artificial reef with the remains of a former Navy ship near by. The wreck is a magnet for divers of all levels. 

Hidden Gems That Make You Fall In Love With The City In Baja California Mexico  

The food in the area is extremely good and the only issue is the large portions. There are many restaurants at the resorts and then there are food trucks painted brightly so as to be easily seen. Mexicans love color and this is just one of the examples of the many colors. Food at the food trucks is extremely delicious, and of course the prices are reasonable.

Shopping For Bargains Is Always Fun In Baja California Mexico

An example of two Mexican women visiting in the sun in front of a market. The Mexicans are very friendly, though you may expect that as the culture as a whole really likes visiting and showing friendship. Notice the beautiful use of color

Sweet Music Of A Man And His Violin In Baja California Mexico

The Mexicans love music, and it is not uncommon for skilled players to be playing for those who enjoy listening.

Tomatillos On The Vine In Baja California Mexico   

Tomatillos make up a positive appearance in most gardens. Tomatillas are often called the Mexican Tomato. They are a bright green when ripe and are covered by a husk. They are usually used in making salsa.

Unique And Beautiful Architecture In Baja California Mexico

This Spanish styling is everywhere in Baja, with it’s arches, courtyards, and red tiled roofs. This is the local style for all levels of housing. High rises and modern architecture are now seen, but there are plenty of small homes to larger ones done in the Spanish styling. Especially in Baja, with it’s magical appearance, these homes make up the norm.

If you are looking for a quick vacation to a tourist wonderland, that is near the border, then Baja California is your perfect answer. The shopping is spectacular and there are bargains galore, the food is amazing, and there is a strong dollar to peso relationship, which is good for Americans.

 

 

 

 

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San Diego California And Her Treasures Of The Sea

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Beautiful Sea Urchins From Grey Tones To Pink

San Diego is the southern most city before crossing the border into Mexico. She and the most northern towns on the Mexican side of the border, are blessed with one of the greatest “Treasures of the Sea,” the Sea Urchin.  This small window of the Pacific, is one of the few places in the world, where you can see the Pink or the Purple Sea Urchin.

The Pink Sea Urchin Is One Of The Most Majestic In The World

The showy pink Sea Urchin is totally magnificent. From the world over, adventurers come just to see the longest living creature on planet Earth. The Pink Sea Urchin can live to be over 200 years old. Then there are those who come to taste it’s spectacular row.

Getting Ready To Take That First Taste

While in many countries this is a delicacy that is well loved, there are many who come to get that first taste. Every year adventures come to San Diego just to taste and see. Will you too, be one who comes? This young man waited in line just to get his first taste of this amazing creature of the deep.

A Vendor Displaying This Beautiful Treasure Of The Sea. 

The vendor is scrapping the inside, which is custard like, so that you can see the actual inside of this magnificent creature.

Creamy On The Inside And Tasty Like Custard

This is a creature so fine, with a taste like nothing else. The closet description would be like custard. Yet, there no words for this amazing opportunity to taste and see.

Will You Come To See This Magnificent Creature Of The Deep? 

Home Of The Freshest Fish And The Spectacular Pink Sea Urchin

The Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is the best fish market in San Diego. Here you will see the freshest fish, and many unique treasures of the deep. It is open every Saturday morning at 8:30 am, however, the line begins to form by 7:30 am.  For up to date information consult their website at:http://thdocksidemarket.com/new/

If you are an adventurer in seek of an adventure, consider a visit to see the longest living creature on earth, and while you are at the market, taste and see how delicious it is.

 

 

 

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Tuna Harbor Dockside Market In San Diego California USA

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This Early Morning Fish Market Setting Up On The Dock

It is very early on Saturday Morning and it is time to head to Fish Harbor Pier located near Seaport Village. There is still some low fog hanging over the harbor. The scene is quite picturesque. The merchants at Tuna Harbor Dockside Market are still buying fish from the local fisherman. The different sellers are setting up for business. Though it is early, we join those in line waiting for the market to open. This is an open air market where the fish are right off the boat. Truly we will leave with the freshest fish in town.

One Of The Fishing Boats Unloading The Catch Of The Night At The Pier

Some of the boats are still unloading fish to the waiting merchants, while others are leaving the area to get their boats cleaned and their nets checked. Most of the fisherman have families that will help with the cleaning and mending of the nets, while the fisherman get a few hours sleep.

The Last Of The Boats Leaving The Doc Area

The Last Of The Merchants Setting Up And Putting Their Fish On Ice

The merchant is holding a rather large Pacific Crevalle Jack (Caranx Caninus). This fish is found in the warm waters from California to Peru.

With the fish now rinsed and laid out on the table for sale, the market is now open for business. We begin to go from fishing table to fishing table. The Saturday morning regulars come early, so as to get first pick of the nights catch.

The Bright Colorful California Sheephead Fish

Because of the deep color of most of the fish on the table, we can only assume that most are at least five or six years old. All California Sheephead are born female and change to males about two-thirds through their nine year life span.

The easiest way to cook sheephead is to fillet the fish. Make an herb butter with herbs, salt, pepper,  and fresh lemon. Spread on the fish. Cook on a lightly greased pan at 400 degrees until the fish flakes from the testing fork. Should be between ten and twelve minutes.

While many do not know this fish, or how to cook it,  it is a very good fish when cooked in this way.

A Table Of  Pacific Crevalle Jack (Caranx Caninus) On Ice And Ready To Sell

This fish can be easily boned and then cubed.  Make a marinate of Ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, garlic, fresh lemon juice, scallions, salt, and  pepper. Marinate for 1-3 hours in the refrigerator. Put on a pan and grill it until flakes from the testing fork. Good served with a salad.

Fresh Caught Tuna Are A Market Favorite And Go Fast

Table Of Fresh Pacific Red Rock Fish

The Pacific Red Rock Fish is different than the one found on the East Coast of America. The Pacific Red Rock Fish is usually marketed as Pacific Red Snapper, however it is not a true Red Snapper. True Red Snapper is found only in the Atlantic Ocean near Mexico.  Both fish are cooked in a similar way.

California Two-Spot Octopus

Octopus is not one of the most widely cooked fish among Europeans and Americans. It is considered a delicacy among the countries of Asia. Asian Americans are usually first inline at the fish market to bring this fish home and prepare it extremely well. Several local restaurants that specialize in fish also have Octopus on the menu. While in San Diego, you will find that there are many places that serve Octopus in extremely delicious ways. Almost every Japanese Restaurant has an Octopus dish on the menu.

Fresh Caught King Crab

Crabs are caught and are sold alive. Crab cakes are a favorite in California. You will find many fish shacks along the beach with delicious crab cakes.

California Spot Prawn/Shrimp Is A Market Favorite

If you enjoy shrimp, what could be better than fresh shrimp? Visit the Restaurant at the end of the Pier for for a large selection of shrimp entrees.  All around the park and village are fish and specialty restaurants.

 

Fresh Farmed Oysters From San Diego Bay

 Sea Urchins Are The Treasure Of The Sea In San Diego California 

People come from all over the world to taste these tiny tasty sea creatures. While at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market, be sure to stop by the small fish shop that serves Sea Urchins in the half shell. Eating fresh out of the shell is like nothing else! It is almost like a custard, not too fishy, and a great experience.

Sweet Creamy Sea Urchin ~ A Mysterious Delicacy Of The Sea!  

Close Up View Of The Inner Custard Of This Outstanding Treasure

San Diego Pier Cafe

The San Diego Pier Cafe is a San Diego landmark and has served lunch and dinner since 1980. It is a full service restaurant has a different featured local fish selection daily. The view is excellent, the atmosphere is amazing, and liquor, beer, and wine are also served.

Small Fish Shack Located At The Market

Loaf & Fish sells some of the best fish sandwiches in San Diego.  The fish can be different weekly, as they use the fresh catch from the fishing boats.

Just One Of Several Delicious Fish Sandwiches At Loaf & Fish

California Sea Lion Can Smell The Fun

A morning at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is a fun and interesting adventure. Ours was made perfect as we spent time looking at the bay. As we were watching, this little fellow came swimming by. He didn’t want to miss out on anything.

If you are in San Diego on a Saturday morning, be sure to check out the fish market on Harbor drive. The market opens around 8:30 am, but the earlier you get there , the more you will see. The line starts forming around 7:30 am. While you are there, take time to explore the park and village market place.  Lunch at the Dockside Market and dinner at one of the Harbor restaurants would be the perfect end to a perfect day. Eat at one that has nice big windows looking out over the bay. San Diego is known for it’s amazing sunsets.

 

 

 

 

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Animals That Make You Smile In San Diego California USA

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 “Having lunch with my Mama”

Gorilla’s at the San Diego Zoo in California having a “Mother – Daughter Lunch.” You have to smile as they ignored their audience, and mother continued feeding her little one. What an example of bonding in the animal kingdom!

 Giraffe reaching for the best! 

Everywhere our team goes we look for special animals in zoos, animal parks, safari parks, preserves, and sometimes we find them in a shop. Sometimes they seem to be talking to us or telling a story. This little fella had already learned that if you want the best, you reach high. Isn’t that what our parents always told us?

This little fella is running wild in the Safari Park at The San Diego Zoo. The trees are endless, but he knows that the tender and best leaves are up high, where only he and his friends can reach.

Milk Please” ……These babies are hungry!

There mamas could not get there fast enough for these babies. They were so cute as they waited for mama to give them some attention. Both they and there parents live at the Safari Park in San Diego, California.

Look At Those Eyes………He Does Not Seem To Miss Anything.

Lemurs are native to the Island of Madagascar. They are fun to watch and look like they are crossed with a raccoon and a cat. But they are one of the most well-known primates from the island of Madagascar. Sometimes they look like dancers gliding along and other times they seem to be singing. The only thing is they remind me of a whale. They are perhaps one of the most unique animals in the Safari Park in San Diego.

It Is Feeding Time For These Babies

What fun to get to feed the little ones that have no mama at the San Diego Safari Park. They are so cute as they get their bottle.

Happy Giant Panda Having Breakfast At The San Diego Zoo

This happy panda has come all the way from China to live at the San Diego Zoo.  There is nothing more important to do during the day than to eat Bamboo. These Pandas spend around 12 hours a day eating what they love the most, Bamboo. They have five fingers to actually aid them in stripping the hard outside and exposing the inner sweet Bamboo treat. They peel the hard outside away with their teeth and just eat most of the day away. No wonder they are so rolly poly and cute.

 The Long Snouted Indian Gharial Is Jurassic At The San Diego Zoo 

Wow, now this is not someone we would want to argue with! We did find him interesting from a distance. Just look at those teeth! Every animal is handsome in his own way.

 The Playful World Of The Schmidt’s  Red-tailed Monkey 

This little monkey is native to Central Africa, though he lives throughout Africa as a whole. He is one of our favorites, as he is so playful and unique. Look at those chubby cheeks! This is where he stores his food till latter. Now this little guy knows how to make sure he doesn’t have to share. They are so cute as they press their noses together in love and then run to play. This little guy calls the San Diego Zoo home, and here he plays in the most interesting and unique ways.

Desert Bighorn Sheep Enjoying The Sun At The San Diego Safari Park In California

The Desert Bighorn Sheep are native to the Southwestern United States and also to Northwestern Mexico. It is not any wonder that they guys are happy as a lark in the warm sun of Southern California.  The rams and ewes are fun to watch eat, as they break cactus apart and consume the tasty inside. The also graze on the wild desert grasses. If they are not finding these two things, then they look for other cactus. Today they were not too entertaining as they were resting in the hot morning sun.

The South American Guanaco At The San Diego Zoo In California

The South American Guanaco has the softest wool. Run your fingers through their fine coat and it is like Cashmere. In their native South America they are brushed daily, being careful to save the fur. Then it is woven into fine yarn and latter is used to make some of the world’s finest garments.

These are just ten of our favorites that call San Diego home. When we travel we like to search out the places where we can find animals that are well cared for and protected. We enjoy seeing happy animals enjoying their life. Some of the places are quality zoos,animal parks, safari parks, preserves, and others are in the wild. Wherever you go, search out those special places where you can connect with nature’s animals from around the world. They bring a smile and laughter to any day.

 

 

 

 

 

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