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I just never get tired of it. I'm talking about Grand Canyon National Park and if you've been there you know what I'm talking about. Bob & I have been to this natural wonder on many occasions when searching for fine art photography opportunities. We've gotten amazing fine art photos of the Grand Canyon to share with you and add to our collection.

About Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon, just two hundred forty seven miles north of Phoenix Arizona, is one of the world’s most stunning destinations. Its spectacular one thousand five hundred meters deep, four hundred forty six kilometers long, and up to twenty nine kilometers wide canyon, diverse flat terrains, towers and hills makes it an experience full of wonder, awe, and enchantment for travelers and adventure seekers.Things to see and things to do are countless at the Grand Canyon and this is what makes it a favorite destination for Arizona visitors.

Grand Canyon adventure tours includes taking a trip down the Colorado River allowing the chance to see deep into the Grand Canyon’s distinguishing ravine; viewing the awesome sight of layer upon layer of rock; floating down the river on an expertly guided tour witnessing wildlife surrounded by sandstone, layers of limestone, and shale exhumed by the Colorado River.

You may also choose to have that Grand Canyon adventure tour by land and experience walking in the footsteps of the ancient people and explorers who discovered the Grand Canyon first. You can make your own adventure or take a guided tour by hike, horseback, or the area’s popular jeep or bus tour.

If land adventure just won’t do it, then experience the Grand Canyon adventure tour on helicopter or airplane. You can fly around towering hills, mesas, and valleys within the Grand Canyon’s main gorge, soar over the thick evergreen forests of juniper and piñon, or water-less plateaus spotted with desert plants which are sectioned by old lava flows, igneous rock, and hills of volcanic debris.

Taking the Grand Canyon adventure tour by air is an unforgettable adventure with matchless viewpoint.

In the middle of communities that surround the Grand Canyon there are many options for tourists and fine art photographers who want to stay for a while. Grand hotels and lodges, resorts, cabins, vacation rentals and more are available whether you fancy a perfect accommodation or a simple one,

Grand Canyon lodging can satisfy that need. One can also find shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and other services in these communities. Shopping for the souvenir is easy with shopping areas offering unique hand made treasures.

And if you’ve done every adventure and things to do in the Grand Canyon, the fun doesn’t stop there, you can continue on with a journey of new thrills and explorations in just a short drive away.



Places like the scenic Flagstaff is just about eighty miles southeast, Dramatic Sedona is less than two hours south, and historic Prescott is just two hours south of Sedona.

The Valley of the Sun which is just four and a half hours drive south, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Cave Creek and Carefree has numerous activities in store for adventure seekers.

Sound exciting? Now that you've taken this quick Grand Canyon tour, it's time to take some action and visit this astounding work of nature. Have fun on your Southwestern holiday.

Bob & I have visited Las Vegas many times and on several occasions we stayed at the The Luxor. We found this is a perfect location to capture some great
fine art travel photos of Las Vegas we can share with you & have plenty to add to our stock photography collection.

The Luxor Las Vegas, a 30-story hotel located on the famous Las Vegas Strip, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of the city. This magnificent hotel casino is shaped like a giant glass pyramid with a bright light from the top that can be seen easily from the air at night, or even from miles away in the desert.

Virtually any movie doing a flyby view of modern Vegas will show the Luxor in one of the shots as the distinctive dark glass pyramid truly is a look that is unmatched, even in a wild city like Las Vegas. The Luxor, which is connected to the famous Mandalay Bay convention center is one of the truly unique sites on the southern side of the Strip.

The Luxor has over 4,400 rooms and this includes over 400 suites. This makes the Luxor the 4th largest hotel in Las Vegas, which also makes it the 7th largest hotel in the entire world.

A free express train also connects to Mandalay Bay and Excalibur, allowing people staying at the Luxor to visit both without having to go outside, and to enjoy the restaurants and other amenities that those locations have to offer.

The Luxor - So Much To See And Do

The sheer size of the hotel isn't just for show, it simply.means there are more options when it comes to entertainment, dining and gambling. The Luxor has 9 major restaurants in the hotel and casino, and that's even including a food court as just one choice.

While several of the casinos on the Strip have just two, or even just one main bar, there are many more choices at the Luxor. There are 5 bars ranging from the basic bars and cafes to high end bars and lounges.

On top of those bars, there's also the LAX Nightclub, which is one of the most popular on the entire Strip.



Another area where the Luxor Las Vegas strives to set itself apart from the competition is the number of shows that are offered. No one is going to be lacking for entertainment as they offer a variety of educational and entertainment experiences to choose from.

Some of the larger shows include the comedian Carrot Top, the magician Criss Angel, and the famous adult-oriented show Fantasy; an artistic music and topless show running for over 14 years as one of the most enduring shows in the city.

The Luxor in Las Vegas obviously has the full range of gambling options, as well. The Luxor has its very own poker room on top of a sports book, tables, and the famous Party Pit. The total casino floor is 120,000 square feet, giving an incredible amount of space for individuals to enjoy a full gambling experience.

There are very few hotels on the Strip that offer the full range of experiences as the Luxor and to top it all off, the Luxor is considered an economy value as it is far more affordable than many of the larger hotels that offer the same array or comparable options.

Doesn't The Luxor sound like a place you would love to spend a few days at? So, what are you waiting for?

The Bowery, a landmark located just 50 yards from the Atlantic Ocean in Myrtle Beach South Carolina, has entertained millions since 1944. Since then, it has become the traditional place to go if you are looking for some fun and good Southern hospitality.

The Bowery Myrtle Beach is one of the really great fun experiences in Myrtle Beach as well as being a special musical stop that offers a historical tradition second to none.

The original house band, Alabama, spent 7 summers from 1973 - 1980 as the band that pioneered the Myrtle Beach country scene before they became a "top of the charts" act of country music in the 80's.

Alabama still considers it their home, and contiune to make numerous appearances throughout the year.

For the best of times, as well as the best of food and drink, you don't want to miss a stop at the Bowery. The current bands will give you the best entertainment and fun you can experience.

The Bowery Myrtle Beach is a place where you can just go and be yourself, hangout in a friendly atmosphere and know that it is going to be a fun evening. Having a good time while enjoying the best of food anywhere is always a great way to spend an evening.

Cherish Those Memories With The Bowery Souvenir

The Bowery has a large list of souvenirs that feature cigarettes, t-shirts, hot sauces and hats. There is also a special "Bowery Iced Beer," and all of these items can be purchased at the establishment, by mail order, phone, or online for the convenience of the customer.



The Bowery thrives on giving their audience live entertainment that will establish a mood of enjoyment and this is where The Bowery obtained one of their slogans, which is trademarked – Ya’ Can’t Beat Fun!

The Myrtle Beach scene is well represented at the Bowery, and you sure don't want to miss it.

See fine art travel photos of other Myrtle Beach South Carolina attractions,

Jean & I love to travel as often as we can & we know from experience that taking a road trip is the most exciting way to see the great country of America and capture some fine art travel photos. What is your favorite road trip? I would have to say traveling along Route 66 is at the top of our list.

Route 66 - The Mother Road

There is no road or stretch of highway in U.S. culture that is more famous than the classic Route 66.

Before the time of the interstate highways, this road was famous connecting the major cities of the west by running from Chicago through St. Louis and then through the southwest all the way to Los Angeles.

This road has become synonymous with adventure, seeing the true America, and road trips.

The cultural mentions of Route 66 are too many to put down in one place and the idea of seeing the old Route 66 is still a popular road trip even today!

One thing to keep in mind when planning the perfect Route 66 road trip is that you're not looking for a trip full of luxury - this is definitely an off the beaten path route.



And, there's a lot of living history that seems to barely be holding on based on the travels of those reliving past times during spring and summer travels.

There are also certain landmarks in each state that are seen as "must stop" places to visit.

Getting a list of these places and being able to review what they offer will help you figure out which ones really jump out at you and which aren't as important - helping you create your own ideal tour of the road that was once known as 'The Mother Road."

You're probably ready to pack your bags and head out for a Route 66 road trip. I know Jean & I are excited about our next adventure along "The Mother Road." Looking forward to shooting some more fine art travel photos.

Jean & I always get excited when we take a trip to St. Augustine.This is one area I know I will have the opportunity to capture some great photos. On one of our assignments, I captured this fine art travel photo in St. Augustine, Florida.

Historic Flagler College Fine Art Travel Photo

Founded in 1968, Flagler College St Augustine is a quality private four year college located in historic St. Augustine, Florida, which is the oldest continuous settlement in the United States of America.

The college is on 19 acres and is right in the heart of St. Augustine, meaning some gorgeous architecture and the type of breath taking buildings and views that you just don't expect from a small private college.

Flagler College not only offers unpredented academic programs but also noteworthy athletic programs. The college has managed to gain a stellar reputation as one of the best liberal arts educations in the country, frequently occurring in The Princeton Review's list of the best colleges in the country.

Flagler College St Augustine has plenty to offer its students, and it shouldn't be surprising the large number of alumni who attempt to return to St Augustine later on in life as the city is named the #1 college town to live in forever, showing just how much the area has to offer students and long term residents of all ages.



There is plenty to like about what Flagler College has to offer, but as with any case it's always best if a student can visit in person and see the historic local community and actual campus for themselves. It's a great private college, and has a bright future in front of it.

After visiting the college, look around & see what else St. Augustine has to offer. As a photographer, I was impressed with the many USA travel art photos
I captured.

One of my favorite places to travel to is Niagara Falls. I have to say it is a sight to behold and the perfect place to capture some great fine art travel photos On one visit I captured this fine art print of Maid of the Mist. What an experience!!

First, I Captured a Fine Art Photo - Then, I Rode The Maid Of The Mist

Riding the Maid of the Mist into the depths of Niagara falls is a half hour of thrills and appreciation of the power and drama of the falls. The brief, but exciting ride in the double-decker boat, that is about the size of most ferry boats today, begins in a calm area of the Niagara River close to the Rainbow bridge area.

Then the boat full of passengers in raincoats pass the American Falls and then glides into the huge fog of spray just inside the curve into the Horseshoe Falls which are also noted as the Canadian Falls.

The first Maid of the Mist was kicked off in 1846 and was only a ferry boat that ran between the American and the Canadian sides of the river. The Civil War period caused a temporary halt to the service, but it picked up again in 1895 and continues until this day.

There is no doubt that the ride itself is a fun-filled exciting experience as the passengers literally get soaked by the mist from the falls. There is a boat that runs every 15 minutes, and the passengers are each issued a recyclable raincoat as a souvenir and to keep them dry during the ride.




Each boat holds 600 passengers and a wild time is at hand as the 350 horsepower boats get into the spray of the falls against the powerful current. The short trip is a thrilling way for tourists to get up close and intimate with one of the most powerful waterfalls on the North American continent.

The immense flow of water and the unrelenting sound of it smashing into the Niagara River is an experience that people will never forget. It is an awesome experience for most of the boat goers which winds up being a thrill of a lifetime.

And, if you would like to purchase a fine art print of Maid of the Mist or Niagara Falls go here travel art photos
.

When you are visiting South Carolina be sure to make time for the Lowcountry area around Kiawah Island and the town of Beaufort. This area is one of the prettiest and most fun in South Carolina, replete with festivals, great restaurants and all sorts of other things to do and see.

Want to See Awesome Beauty? Visit Beaufort SC Lowcountry

Beaufort is the ultimate gracious Southern town with a pleasing combination of urban refinement and Lowcountry friendliness. It is replete with exquisite cuisine, antebellum architecture and rich heritage. Add in the beach, a large number of sunny days, and great walkability and you have a wonderful beach town.



Strictly speaking, Beaufort is not directly on the ocean although you can see an amazing Beaufort SC sunset from the docks in the late afternoon.

It actually lies along the banks of the Beaufort River and the Port Royal Sound. There is open Atlantic water about 16 miles east of Beaufort’s historic town center. Here Hunting Island State Park boasts three miles of the most beautiful beaches in South Carolina. There is also abundant marshlands and maritime forest, as well as the only lighthouse in South Carolina still open to the public.

Beaufort boasts a very walk-able downtown area which bookstores, art galleries, and antique shops, all perfect for an afternoon of shopping or browsing. The many restaurants serve fresh, off-the-boat seafood and traditional Low country meals such as just-picked collard greens and spicy, thick gumbos. The area also includes a vast waterfront park which is the perfect venue for live concerts.

The area surrounding Beaufort is rich with southern history. Beaufort’s downtown area is a designated National Historic Landmark, as is St. Helena Island where a rich Gullah heritage is remembered and nurtured by descendants of slaves.

Beaufort natives differentiate between those whose families have been in town for generations and those who are more recent arrivals, say within the last twenty years. A comeyeah is a more recent arrival, meaning “come here” or a new comer. Beanyeah means “been here” and refers to what Beaufort calls the locals. Since Beaufort is South Carolina’s second oldest city, beanyeah status is not easily achieved.

Beaufort’s history starts when the Spanish arrived back in the early 1500s. They failed to create a successful settlement. Later on, the French also attempted to create a settlement at Beaufort, but like the Spanish were not successful. It wasn’t until 1711 that the British were able to establish a successful settlement despite frequent attacks by the Yamasee Indians.

Despite its early beginnings, it is the Civil War which still resonates with more locals in Beaufort. Many local residents still remember what the war meant and talk about its aftermath. One of Beaufort’s most beautiful areas is the historic Old Point neighborhood where homeowners have found bullets and arm bones from the Civil War.

Beaufort was the first and last town in the Confederacy occupied by Union Troops. These troops arrived in 1861 which caused more than 1,400 residents to flee the town. However, it was this occupation which spared Beaufort much of the destruction experienced by other Southern cities. Most of the homes were turned into hospitals and were not destroyed, so still remain today.

Beaufort SC is a wonderful combination of history, cuisine and Lowcountry living. It is a perfect place to experience the beauty of South Carolina.

You can see fine art prints of Beaufort and other South Carolina locations at bobpardue.artistwebsites.com

Ah.. Just returned from another self fine art travel photo assignment to the mysterious and beautiful Southwestern USA and shot over 200 pictures. Many were for my travel stock collection but I hope to use a few for new art prints. I'll load more as time permits.

But with that said, the trip was fantastic. I never get tired of looking at the near endless horizon stretching as far as the eye can see. And then, all of a sudden, a few peaks of the Rockies appear in front, then on all sides. Each time of day presents a new adventure.

One other thought when I'm traveling these long, straight roads is the original American settlers who traveled on the wagon trains, looking for a new and brighter future. Some made it and some didn't. When I stand and look toward my right and left, or east to west I can't help but imagine these settlers starting out at sunrise and seeing the day of walking ahead, with no real end in sight.

But, that was then and this is now. My trip included some side excursions along Historic Route 66 (known as the Mother Road) and towns with Native American names like Shawnee and Tucumcari.

Then, on to Vegas - but that's the topic for another story. Jean and I can't wait to get back out west again and see what other sights and sounds await us. I hope to expand my fine art photos this year. I suggest you give it a try.

USA Fine Art Travel Photos Can Help Inspire People

One thing Jean & I love is travel - nuff said! But, did you know that fine art travel photos of the good old USA can inspire you to new heights? Traveling is a great way to unwind from the stress of daily life. However, people will often find that it is nearly impossible to get away from their home at times because of the cost of travel.

This does not deter people from wanting to see the exotic areas that are around them. When people still want to see these areas, they need to know more about the USA travel pictures and how these pictures will help them in getting to enjoy the region without having to leave the comfort of their home.

Different regions of the country are often covered with the travel pictures. While most people think they are going to see only a set area, they need to realize this is not the case. In fact, with most USA travel art photos they are put in a category or regional area. This means people will have a chance to find the pictures for a specific region and this will help them in determining which of the locations they should be saving up money to travel to.

Clarity of the fine art travel photo is another factor people will enjoy seeing. While most people never think about this, they need to realize the pictures that are being taken and published will generally be so clear it looks like they are standing right in the exact same location. This makes it even more enjoyable for people who cannot make it to the area because they can get a sense of the location with the pictures.

Ability to show the pictures off to other people is something else people like to do. Most of the time, people do not think about going home and showing off the pictures to others. However, when the pictures are of different regions, even if they did not take them, they will want to take the art prints for travel home and show them off right away. This way people will have a chance to show off to other people what they love and like to see.

Seeing the things other people love allows people to start to connect with the other people based off of their mutual love. Since people are able to connect with people based off of this mutual love, they will start to find a friend with them if they know the person who took the picture. Without this, people may have trouble in getting to see what people love to see.

As many people have found out, travel is a great way to relieve stress, but it is expensive. This is when people should know more about how they can be inspired by the USA travel pictures.

When people get the right inspiration here, they will be able to enjoy their little trips even more. However, they will also start to get a great feel for the trip they are taking because of the fine art travel photos they have seen and know they will finally see the spot and stand in the exact same location the picture was taken in.

I'm looking forward to Christmas and the holidays, aren't you? Even so, it's sometimes tough to find gift ideas for certain people -- you know who they are. Don't fret, giving original fine art prints is a great choice for almost anyone when you choose wisely.

Fit Their Personality this Christmas

Matching a photo to a person's personality is sure to make a hit. When you give them a gift they haven't seen anywhere else you'll be special in their eyes and you'll get that "warm & fuzzy" feeling of giving from the heart.

Look through Fine Art America to find just about any subject on earth and you're sure to find something to fit just about anyone you know. Of course I hope you pick one of mine from the link I provided but I know there are tons of fine artists and photographers here.

Gift from Me

If you do decide to give one of my images for a gift and get it today on Cyber Monday, I'm giving a whopping 25% discount on all my art prints. This includes prints & stretched canvas so you can save big!

To get your discount just include the code: FAPTTM when you order. It's that easy!

I hope you enjoy shopping and can't wait to see what you choose! Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! - Bob Pardue