Author: Gigi de Jong

Grapevine: The Perfect Gateway to a Texas Adventure

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Grapevine, Texas, is a unique destination that beautifully marries small-town charm with big-city amenities. Nestled in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, it serves as a serene escape from the urban sprawl, a place where history, heritage, and modern fun are always within reach. Whether you’re a family looking for a magical holiday getaway or a couple seeking a relaxing weekend of wine and music, this welcoming city offers a truly unforgettable experience.

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7 Remarkable New Mexico & Texas State Parks

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On a journey from Tucson, Arizona, to Austin, Texas, I took the not-so-direct route to explore scenic byways and country roads in New Mexico and Texas. It was a delightful experience of big landscapes and monumental scenes, quirky rural towns with fascinating histories, nature’s bounty, and hospitable people. If you find yourself near any of these sites, stop and visit. You’ll be delighted too.

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8 Stellar Dark Sky Parks East of the Mississippi

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Astronomy can be a fun and rewarding activity for the whole family. It’s as easy as looking up at the stars. Sadly, though, experts estimate that one-third of humanity and 80% of North Americans can no longer see stars in abundance and the Milky Way from where they live due to light pollution.

Luckily, DarkSky (formerly the International Dark-Sky Association, founded in 1988) has been raising awareness and become the global authority on the subject, advocating for responsible outdoor lighting to protect the natural darkness in communities and parks around the world. Since Flagstaff, AZ, became the first certified Dark Sky City in 2001, DarkSky has certified over 200 places in 22 countries protecting over 60,000 square miles of land.

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