Travel Archives | Golden Country Cowgirl

Should You Learn the Language Before Traveling to a Foreign Country?

Planning a trip to a foreign country often brings up the question: should you learn the local language before traveling? While the answer depends on your destination, travel goals, and personal preferences, there are compelling arguments both for and against learning the language before you go. Let’s explore these perspectives to help you decide what’s best for your next adventure. The Pros of Learning the Language Before Traveling 1. Enhanced Travel Experience Learning the local language before you travel allows for deeper cultural immersion. You can navigate your surroundings more easily, understand signs and menus, and engage in meaningful conversations with locals. This added layer of connection can make your travel experience richer and more rewarding. 2. Cultural Respect Making an effort to learn even…

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12 Hidden Gems in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas

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The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is a treasure trove of lesser-known attractions. While many travelers flock to the popular destinations, these Rio Grande Valley hidden gems offer unique experiences that highlight the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventurer, these spots deserve a place on your itinerary. 1. Los Ebanos Ferry Why Visit: Step back in time with a ride on the last hand-pulled ferry in the United States. This unique transportation experience connects Texas to Mexico across the Rio Grande. What to Expect: The ferry crew manually pulls passengers and vehicles across the river using a thick rope. It’s a fascinating nod to history and a fun experience for all ages. Hours: Open daily, 8 a.m.…

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The Ultimate Day Trip Packing Guide

Back pack on a bed ready to be packed with some items suggested in the day trip packing guide: notepad and pen, cell phone and wide-brimmed hat. Text overlay says "The Ultlimate Day Trip Packing Guide"

15 Must-Have Items for a Perfect Adventure Planning a day trip is exciting, but forgetting something essential can turn your outing into a hassle. Packing thoughtfully can help you fully enjoy your adventure without unexpected hiccups. Check out this day trip packing guide for a deeper dive into what to pack and why these items can enhance your experience. 1. Dress Smart: Comfortable Clothing and Footwear Why it matters: Weather can change unexpectedly, and what feels fine in the morning may leave you cold or overheated later. Wear moisture-wicking fabrics if it’s hot, and pack a lightweight, water-resistant jacket for sudden rain. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking, and don’t forget extra socks to stay fresh after a long trek. Pro tip: If you’re unsure…

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10 Top Places to Visit in the Rio Grande Valley

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The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is bursting with incredible places to explore. From beaches to wildlife refuges, the region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, these top spots should be on your itinerary. 1. South Padre Island Why Visit: South Padre Island is famous for its gorgeous beaches, warm Gulf waters, and endless activities. Families love the calm waves, while adventure seekers enjoy kiteboarding, parasailing, and jet skiing. It’s also a hotspot for nature lovers. The South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center offers boardwalk trails where you can spot herons, egrets, and even alligators. Dolphin-watching tours are another must-try experience. Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall have perfect weather and fewer crowds. Hours: Public beaches are…

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Exploring SpaceX: A Unique Tourist Destination in Boca Chica, Texas

Nestled along the Gulf Coast near Brownsville, Texas, SpaceX’s Starbase facility has transformed the quiet area of Boca Chica into a hub of innovation and intrigue. While the primary mission of SpaceX is advancing space exploration, its site has also become a fascinating tourist destination for space enthusiasts, tech buffs, and curious travelers. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning a visit to this one-of-a-kind location. A SpaceX Starship rocket and booster at the company’s Starbase facility launch pad. (Image credit: SpaceX via X) 1. What Is Starbase? Starbase is SpaceX’s launch and development facility where the company designs, builds, and tests its next-generation Starship rockets. The site’s futuristic infrastructure and ongoing rocket launches have made it a magnet for visitors. The towering…

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Nikon P900 Superzoom Camera – Great All-Purpose Camera

With so many things closing down and a tremendous decrease in traffic to travel websites, I’ve been at a bit of a loss for what to do. Since I recently purchased new camera equipment, I decided to take some of this down time to really learn how to use it all. I chose to start with my Nikon P900 superzoom camera since I’ve had it the longest. Even though I don’t know how to use it to its fullest potential yet, I already love it. For years, my go to camera has been a Nikon D90 DSLR. This has been a more than adequate camera for the blog. However, for quite a while now I’ve been wishing for a longer telephoto lens for better bird…

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World Birding Center Locations and Best Time to Visit

The World Birding Center may sound like a single place but, in fact, it is a series of nine locations that stretch out 120 miles across the southern border of Texas. Each unique facility is a gem on the chain that forms the World Birding Center. The World Birding Center locations offer year round activities. Whether you are a casual nature lover with no interest in birding or an expert birder, you’ll love all that these centers have to offer. About the World Birding Center The World Birding Center is a $20 million development based on the joint partnership between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Rio Grande Valley Communities & U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Each unique location is sponsored by one of the…

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Electra Road Wildflowers Take a Hike from Ordinary to Extraordinary

The Electra Road wildflowers are spectacular this time of year and offer an added bonus to any hike along the road and the Mokulemne River.

Hiking on Electra Road is not a very traditional hike or much of a challenge, but it is an excellent place to just get up and get outside. The day use area offers clean restrooms, picnic tables, barbecues and a beach for swimming. An added bonus this time of year is that the Electra Road wildflowers can be spectacular. Electra Road is just north of the bridge that crosses the Mokelumne River on Highway 49. Here, the river is nearly 100 feet wide and Electra Road provides easy access for white water boaters. The road is narrow, barely more than one lane, and in poor shape so be sure to drive slowly and share the road with the hikers. The road follows the river for over 3 miles…

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Small Town Wine Bar in California’s Smallest Incorporated City

Updated 11/4/23, original post published 1/30/18 Whenever I hear about someone closing their business, it always makes me a little sad. Such was the case when I saw the following post on Instagram from Ginger at Small Town Food and Wine, formerly Small Town Wine Bar. The last few years have been tough for many businesses. Some were closed down for months and never reopened and recovered. Those who have been lucky enough to reopen have struggled with lack of help (people don’t want to work!), fewer customers and rising prices. These challenges have forced many business owners to reevaluate what is important. Ginger came to the decision that she no longer has “the desire to fight to stay open.” The good thing to…

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Home of the Painted Churches — Schulenburg, Texas

There are as many as 20 painted churches throughout the Hill Country of Texas and at least 15 of these churches are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. When you visit Schulenburg, Texas, you’ll be able to see four of the most well-known and impressive examples of the painted churches. You can easily visit these four painted churches of Schulenburg in one day as they are just a short distance from one another. Schulenburg is officially designated “Home of the Painted Churches.” What are the Painted Churches? The Texas Hill Country was settled in the 1800s by German and Czech immigrants, many of whom were fleeing religious oppression. They built the churches in the late 1800s and early 1900s and decorated them to…

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