Reird Adventures

09/18/2024

The medieval Römer building has been the city hall of Frankfurt for over 600 years. This is a sharp contrast to the modern city and people. I rate it as a must-visit on any German itinerary.

09/17/2024

Travel is more than just a journey – it's a lifelong treasure trove of dreams, experiences, and cherished memories. What keeps your wanderlust alive? How about the Amalfi Coast of Italy?

09/17/2024

AmaWaterways' Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner has voiced his top itinerary choice for 2025: their new Best of the Danube itinerary! Be among the first to encounter fascinating wonders. I have more information on this fabulous itinerary.

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09/16/2024

Tropical paradise awaits on breathtaking Zanzibar Island, just a hop from mainland Tanzania. Discover stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving. Might this be a dream tropical getaway?

09/16/2024

There's nothing sweeter than ending the year with Medallion® Status. And the cherry on top? You can do it in just one vacation! Terms apply.

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09/16/2024

Welcome back to my business page, Reird Adventures! Enjoy your stay!
As previously mentioned on my personal page, I took a little day trip on Labor Day to relax and enjoy a nature walk at Martelle and Grant Wood Nature Trail. The day was very nice and sunny. Driving to the trail from Highway One, a person will take a left on the north Welcside of Martelle. A short drive past the grain silos on County Road E45 will lead you to the small drive into the parking lot. There at the entrance of the nature trail are three signs and two sitting benches. One sign is the trail regulations and times, another sign informs of the trail history (all of the Grant Wood trails in Jones and Linn Counties are former railroad tracks), and one sign gives information on what kind of plants and wildlife to expect viewing. This is a narrow, tree-lined paved path in the midst of farmland, so don't expect a large amount of nature roaming around. With that being said, I did see a white-tailed deer and plenty of flowers. The gently flowing hills with endless crops in sight were very pleasing to the eyes. Grant Wood was inspired by these prairie landscapes along the gentle hills.
One of the interesting aspects of this trail was the tree stumps about every 5-10 yards near the beginning of the trail, that had little figurines on top of the stump. Reminiscent of old yard decorations, these figurines were images of birds, children, deer, and even angels. At first I thought someone just left the figurine there for laughs. But as I walked on, more and more appeared under vegetation, almost hidden but making their presence known. I then felt within that these were in remembrance of Grant Wood (his place of childbirth is within a few miles of this trail). As one continues to walk a few blocks worth, the figurines discontinue and the vegetation grows thicker. Halfway through the trail there is a bench one can sit on (the trail itself is only .4 mile, which I consider very short). For the last .2 mile stretch, the vegetation is pretty thick and one can't see into the crop fields. Here one can see best the dogwood trees, and white and yellow flowers. There is also a bench near the end of the fenced off trail (quite abruptly in my opinion). As an interesting note, there was a lady that arrived about the same time as myself, she started the trail before I did. As I starting walking on the trail, I noticed she was already coming back. And for good reason; she came to walk a certain distance for exercising, and to reach that distance, she had to keep walking back and forth the same .4 miles. By the time I left to see the opposite direction of the trail (leading into the small town of Martelle) she had walked the same .4 mile stretch three times.
Which leads me to the stretch of trail that leads into Martelle. Martelle has the history of a small trading hub from the 1830s until the locomotive (train) no longer was running through the area. Beginning with the idea of creating a trough (trail) from Dubuque straightway towards Iowa City, a locomotive company in turn built tracks from Chicago towards Cedar Rapids. Martelle is the crossroads of these two transportation platforms. Martelle quickly grew to a population of 100+ citizens in the late 1830s. That isn't much, but back then it was something. I will have more on my next post about the history, as I plan to visit the town history museum when its open.
With each posting, I have to do a rating. This lets you know what to expect. But the interesting part is that you, my clients and people interested in traveling, can leave comments and your experiences🛤🌅🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️
Rating: B
Pros: For a small trail, there is plenty to look at. The trailhead signs are very informative, including times, DNR information, history, plant species information, bird species, and much more. The sitting area and trailhead is well kept, and the trail is nicely paved. The figurines are interesting and a cute addition. The sitting benches are well made and placed in ideal locations. The trail leading into Martelle is also well paved and transforms into the town street for easy access. Just don't pick the apples off the resident's trees😁
Cons: Though the locals may think the short distance of the trail is ideal, I found the .4 trail kind of disappointing in length. There are three different trailheads of the Jones and Linn County Grant Wood Nature Trail, and none of them connect into a continuous path. My understanding is that the local farmers don't think its practical or important enough to connect the trails together. Yet the former railroad tracks stay tree-lined with no use to the farmers. In addition, this is another public use area without trash cans, so please take your trash with you. The parking lot is only large enough for five vehicles and there is no picnic table. Nevertheless, if you just want to take a quick walk, this is the place. And you might just see a deer🦌 or squirrel🐿 walking over the trail.
Feel free to stay as long as you wish while searching for vacation or business traveling needs! Let me help you if you have questions. As a reminder, I'm certified in everything Disney and Carnival Cruise Lines! These are awesome vacation outlets! So connect with me and share with me your exciting travel ideas💯

09/15/2024

The vibrant capital of Chile, Santiago, offers respite with a stroll through the beautifully manicured Santa Lucía Park. You’ll enjoy panoramic city views from the hilltop and discover historical landmarks, tranquil fountains, and lush greenery in this urban oasis.

09/14/2024

Embark on a scenic hike to the Kallur Lighthouse on Kalsoy Island in the Faroe Islands, where breathtaking views and untouched natural beauty surround you. Day or night, this stunning destination promises an unforgettable adventure.

09/13/2024

St. Maarten is half French, half Dutch, and all vacation. There are many resort options to suit any style. Let me find something to suit your taste and budget.

09/13/2024

POV: Your dream Carnival Cruise is finally making it out of the group chat! Book now and turn those plans into fun and unforgettable memories.

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09/12/2024

Unfair! Greece already has too many nice places. Well, here's another one. The mystical beauty of Melissani Lake in Kefalonia. A natural wonder nestled within an ancient limestone cave. A must-see destination. Want me to gather some information for you?

09/11/2024

In the enchanting setting of Lilla Torg, the oldest public square in the old town of Malmö, Sweden, you're invited to discover the delicious custom of “fika,” sharing a coffee and a sweet with loved ones! You'll be pleasantly transported by the charm of this historic place, anchored in its time. Your memories will be unforgettable.

09/11/2024

Dubai will have you at a loss for words. From towering skyscrapers to luxurious hotels, it's a playground for the senses. Contact me to start planning your bucket list vacation, and secure your spot for only $250 down.

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09/10/2024

If you want to experience glitz, opulence, and elegance, then the iconic Monte Carlo Casino is a good place to start. You can try your luck at the tables, soak up the refined atmosphere of this legendary establishment, or indulge in a luxury dining and shopping experience in Monaco!

09/09/2024

The awe-inspiring Basad Rice Terraces in the Philippines is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can immerse in local culture while witnessing these masterpieces of human ingenuity and the breathtaking beauty of nature on your next vacation. What more can I show you?

09/09/2024

Celebrate spring in the Netherlands in 2025 with AmaWaterways and experience the colorful Keukenhof Gardens and its many rows of tulips. Reserve your Tulip Time itinerary today! Contact me for more information.

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09/08/2024

Escape the ordinary with an adrenaline-pumping trek at El Chorro near Ardales, Spain. Experience the thrill of hiking the famous Caminito del Rey and embrace a different kind of vacation.

09/07/2024

Step into a real-life fairy tale in the enchanting village of Porumbacu de Sus—just one of the many captivating attractions this gem of a country has to offer. Are you ready for an adventure?

09/07/2024

Explore diverse Mediterranean cultures from Sicily to Venice With Swan Hellenic. You'll marvel at Sicily's ancient ruins and charming Puglia towns. Cross the Adriatic to medieval Dubrovnik, glide through Montenegro's breathtaking entrance, and visit Kotor's magical Old Town. Explore Croatian coastal gems from Roman Split to chic Hvar. Tour wineries, lavender farms, and olive groves, concluding in Venice, where you'll uncover the rich contrasts of Mediterranean culture.

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09/06/2024

Amsterdam's 175 picturesque canals, vibrant culture, and iconic charm—a must-see destination for every travel enthusiast - is a favorite that should be on your 'A' list plan.

09/06/2024

Escape to the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a breathtaking archipelago of over 60 islands and cays in the Caribbean. Pristine white-sand beaches, lush green hills, and crystal-clear turquoise waters await. DM me for more information.

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09/05/2024

Interested in a luxurious immersion into idyllic water living surrounded by azure waters in an overwater bungalow in the breathtaking Maldives? I can make that happen.

09/05/2024

Just In! New 2026 & 2027 Carnival sailings to bucket list destinations in Aruba, St. Kitts, and Montego Bay from popular ports like Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston, and Baltimore. Book now for the best savings, call me today!

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09/04/2024

Adventure awaits in Tenerife: where sun-kissed beaches meet volcanic wonders. I can help you effortlessly plan an unforgettable trip to this Canary Island gem. From hiking the Teide volcano to relaxing on black sand beaches, there's something for everyone. ALGVacations

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09/04/2024

This observatory on Mount Stanserhorn in the Swiss Alps overlooks 10 lakes and 100 kilometers of Alpine mountains. After exploring the surrounding area, you won't want to miss a delicious dinner in the revolving Rondorama restaurant. An unforgettable panoramic dining experience is guaranteed! It takes 43 minutes to complete a full revolution, giving you plenty of time to admire 360 degrees of scenery.

09/03/2024

This Chillian gem is the enchanting port city of Valparaiso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on Chile's picturesque coast. You’ll marvel at its steep funiculars, vibrant cliffside homes, and breathtaking vistas. There’s a rich history and culture for you to experience here.

09/03/2024

Experience the beauty of Amsterdam on board AmaWaterways' Captivating Rhine itinerary. From vibrant canals to charming streets, Amsterdam offers a captivating start to your journey. Contact me today!

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09/02/2024

The 8-kilometer (5-mile) stretch of beach at Sanur, Bali, offers you a caressing stroll through fine sand wetted by shallow waters, while you pass colorful jukungs (fishing boats), warungs (small family-run shops), not to mention world-class art galleries, restaurants and spas :) And I can recommend some first-rate resorts.

09/01/2024

Uber Madagascar-style to Ambatozavavy Village on Nosy Be. Interested in experiencing a unique blend of tradition and modern island life while exploring its charm through local transportation? I have the tools to make this happen.

09/01/2024

Each British Virgin Island (BVI) has its own unique charm, from the bustling capital of Tortola to the laid-back Jost Van D**e. Explore vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling or diving, hike scenic trails, sail through calm waters, or simply relax on the beach. With warm hospitality and endless adventure, the BVI's are yours to discover - find yourself surrounded by BVI Love. What more can I tell you?

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