Category Archives: Travel

Tower in the Sea

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Rising from the waves like a sentinel of stone, Boon Island Light is New England’s tallest lighthouse—and one of its most haunting maritime landmarks. With a nod to my sister’s enduring love of lighthouses and a dash of wanderlust, I invite you to explore the story of this remote Maine beacon, where history, hardship, and the sea converge.

 

🌊 A Tower in the Sea: Introduction to Boon Island Light

Located 6.5 miles off the coast of York, Maine, Boon Island Light is the tallest lighthouse in New England, rising 133 feet from a barren outcrop in the Atlantic. Its isolated perch and storm-battered silhouette have made it a symbol of resilience and maritime vigilance.

🕰️ From Shipwrecks to Signals: A Storied Past

Drawing of the Nottingham Galley shipwreck

The island’s name may stem from early fishermen who left provisions for shipwrecked sailors—a “boon” in desperate times. But its most infamous tale is the 1710 wreck of the Nottingham Galley, whose crew resorted to cannibalism to survive. This tragedy sparked calls for a permanent warning beacon.

Builders erected the first lighthouse in 1811, but relentless storms repeatedly tore down those early structures. In 1855, they completed the current granite tower, outfitting it with a second-order Fresnel lens and a fog horn that still sounds every 10 seconds.

🛠️ Automation and Preservation

After a devastating blizzard in 1978 washed away all keeper dwellings, the station was automated in 1980. Today, Boon Island Light remains an active aid to navigation, owned by the U.S. Coast Guard and leased to the American Lighthouse Foundation, though it’s in need of major restoration.

🚫 Remote and Inaccessible—Yet Irresistible

Boon Island is not open to the public, and its rocky terrain makes landings treacherous. Still, its allure draws lighthouse enthusiasts and historians. Scenic boat tours occasionally pass by, offering distant glimpses of this stoic sentinel.

📚 Legacy in Literature and Lore

The lighthouse’s grim history inspired Kenneth Roberts’ novel “Boon Island”, and its stark beauty has been described as “an eternal exclamation mark” by 19th-century writer Samuel Adams Drake. It’s a place where nature, history, and human endurance collide.

 

🌍 Hidden Gems & Internet Shenanigans: My Accidental Travel Checklist

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Surfing the Web, Stumbling into Wanderlust

One of my guilty pleasures since being forcefully retired (yes, I’m still salty) is cruising around the internet. It’s a rabbit hole of weird and wonderful discoveries—and we all know if it’s on the internet, it must be true, right?

I especially love lists. Bucket lists, travel lists, “best of” lists—I devour them like popcorn. I scroll through to see what I’ve done, what I’ve missed, and whether I agree with the writer’s take. Recently, I stumbled across a list of “Hidden Gems.” I expected obscure spots I’d never heard of, but surprise surprise—I’ve actually been to a few!

❄️ Leavenworth, Washington: Alpine Charm Without the Prison

The list kicks off with Leavenworth, Washington—a mountain village with alpine architecture, festive vibes, and wintery fun like sleigh rides and snowshoeing. Sounds magical… if you like snow. I, however, am a blanket-loving, cold-avoiding creature. Sleigh rides? Maybe. Snow? Hard pass.

Oh, and just to clear up a common misconception: the infamous Leavenworth prison is in Kansas, not Washington. So no need to worry about bunking with inmates on your holiday getaway.

🏖️ St. Augustine, Florida: History with a Sea Breeze

Now this one I have visited. St. Augustine is described as “old world elegance meets coastal calm,” and I couldn’t agree more. It’s a dream for history buffs and beachcombers alike.

I wandered through the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park (Ponce de León sightings: frequent), and explored Castillo de San Marcos—the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. It looked nothing like the northern forts I grew up with, and that made it all the more fascinating.

Castillo de San Marcos – Photo Credit Deb Neumann

🏜️ Village of Oak Creek, Arizona: Sedona’s Serene Sister

Been there, done that—and I’d do it again. Oak Creek is often overshadowed by Sedona, but it’s a gem in its own right. Rich red rocks, peaceful vibes, and spa-worthy stays make it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. I’ve visited more than once, and each time feels like a fresh discovery.

Red Rocks –photo credit Deb Neumann

🏞️ Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Victorian Whimsy in the Ozarks

I haven’t made it to Eureka Springs yet, but it’s on the “maybe” list. It’s described as a quirky small town with Victorian charm, winding hills, and upscale cabins tucked into the Ozarks. Kayaking and underground tours sound fun… though my joints might disagree. Still, never say never.

🌊 Mendocino, California: Cliffside Calm and Coastal Cuisine

Now this one has my attention. Mendocino promises cliffside inns, local vineyards, and oceanfront escapes. Food, wine, and waves? Yes, please. I could definitely get into that kind of coastal calm.

✨ What’s Next?

There’s still so much to explore—new places to discover and old favorites to revisit. Maybe I missed something the first time around. Maybe I’ll find a new favorite. Either way, the journey continues… one internet list at a time.

 

One More Scary Bridge Story

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One More Scary Bridge Story: The Final Chapter

After my last post about terrifying bridges, I expected a flood of horror stories. There are certainly enough fear-inducing spans out there—but it seems you, my dear readers, are made of sterner stuff.

Still, a few brave souls shared their tales, and I couldn’t resist digging deeper. Let’s take one last look at some of the world’s most spine-tingling bridges before we lay this topic to rest.

🌉 Mile High Swinging Bridge — North Carolina

This one wasn’t on my original list, but a reader’s story of sheer terror sent me searching.

Located in Grandfather Mountain Nature Park, the Mile High Swinging Bridge is a 228-foot suspension bridge that spans an 80-foot chasm—at more than one mile in elevation. To reach it, you’ll drive a winding two-mile scenic road, climb 50 stairs to the Top Shop, and then take an elevator to the final leg.

The bridge is fully accessible, so yes—you can roll across in a wheelchair. Equal opportunity thrills (or chills), indeed.

 

🌲 Capilano Suspension Bridge — British Columbia, Canada

This one made my original list and was also suggested by a reader who’s “been there, done that.” Just looking at the photos had my heart in my throat.

Stretching 450 feet across and suspended 230 feet above the Capilano River, this swaying, bouncing bridge connects manicured gardens to temperate rainforest. Steel cables serve as handrails, and wooden planks make up the floor—just enough to keep you wobbling with every step.

The website reassures visitors that the bridge can hold the weight of a fully loaded 747. Comforting? Maybe. But I’ll still be clutching those cables.

🏔️ Trift Bridge — Switzerland

One more for the road—because why not end with a high-altitude thrill?

Built in 2004 and modeled after Nepalese high-wire bridges, the Trift Bridge was designed to restore access to the Trift Glacier, which had receded due to global warming. It became such a tourist magnet that it was replaced in 2009 with a safer version.

Suspended 328 feet above the ground and stretching 558 feet long, this pedestrian bridge is considered one of the most spectacular in the Alps. If you can handle the height, the views are unforgettable.

🧭 There Are More…

Of course, this is just the tip of the terrifying iceberg. A quick search for “Most Dangerous Bridges in the World” will reveal dozens more. But for now, I think we’ve crossed enough chasms together.

If I missed one of your favorites, drop me a note! Maybe we’ll revisit this topic down the road—preferably one with guardrails.

 

Bridges of Terror

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Bridges That Dare You to Cross

Let’s talk bridges—again. When I first dipped into this topic, I had no idea how many life-threatening crossings existed around the world. It’s truly fascinating… and a little terrifying.

Here are a few more that push the limits of courage and engineering:

🌪️ Hussaini Suspension Bridge — Pakistan

A landslide wiped out the original 1968 bridge, and in its place rose a daring suspension of wooden planks and rope—minimalist, precarious, and unforgettable. Picture this: 635 feet of rectangular wooden planks, strung together by just six ropes. To reduce wind vibrations, the planks are spaced apart—meaning you’ll be stepping over gaps as you cross. In 2013, Condé Nast Traveler named it one of the most dangerous bridges in the world. No surprise there.

🪵 Vitim River Bridge — Russia

This one sets the bar for sheer nerve. A single-lane wooden bridge with no railings, perched over a frigid Siberian river. Add in rotting wood and icy conditions, and you’ve got a recipe for second thoughts. It’s not just a crossing—it’s a dare.

🌊 Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge — Northern Ireland

Spanning 66 feet and suspended 98 feet above jagged rocks, this rope bridge connects Carrick Island to the mainland. Strong winds and crashing waves make the crossing a heart-pounding experience. Some tourists are so shaken they need to be ferried back by boat. Would you brave it?

🐒 Monkey Bridges — Vietnam

Crafted from bamboo and used daily by locals, these narrow, unsupported bridges are a test of balance and bravery. Tourists often hesitate—but if you’re feeling bold, they offer a truly authentic challenge. Think you’ve got the nerve?

🧗 Tianmen Mountain Glass Skywalk — China

Afraid of heights? Timid? Have a heart condition? Then this one’s not for you. Built along high cliffs, these glass skywalks are painted green to reduce panic—but even that doesn’t stop knees from buckling. The views are breathtaking, if you can keep your eyes open. If you go, I’d love to hear how you fared.

More to Come…

There are countless bridges out there that test the limits of human courage. I won’t get to them all—but I’d love your help. Have you crossed a bridge that belongs on this shortlist of terror? Drop me a note and let’s add it to the adventure.

 

Bridges We Love to Fear

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Bridges That Make Your Heart Skip a Beat

I was casting about for something to write today. The National Day Calendar didn’t offer much inspiration—Candy Day was the biggie, but with Halloween just behind us and Valentine’s Day looming in February, it felt a bit… stale.

Then I stumbled across an article about dangerous bridges. Now that got my adrenaline pumping.

Sedona 2009

Adrenaline Junkie at Heart

I’ve been called an adrenaline junkie more times than I can count. Helicopter rides? Yes, please. Scuba diving? Absolutely. Watching volcanoes erupt? Been there.  And don’t forget White Water Rafting. Before arthritis slowed me down, I logged some serious hiking miles. Cage diving with sharks was on my list too, but the price tag kept that dream at bay. An African safari still sits on my bucket list.

But bridges? Are they really as terrifying as people say?

Let’s take a look.

Scariest Bridge I’ve Ever Crossed

🧗‍♀️ Yukon Suspension Bridge – Yukon, Canada

  • Spans the Tutshi River
  • Approximately 1,200 feet long
  • Sways as you cross (that was the scariest part for me!)
  • You can feel every footstep—yours and everyone else’s
Yukon Suspension Bridge

Yukon Suspension Bridge 2013 – photo credit Deb Neumann

Once I got the hang of it, the fear faded. Like anything new, it’s intimidating at first—but then it becomes exhilarating.

American Bridges That Dare You to Cross

There are countless intimidating bridges around the world, but today I’m sticking to the U.S. We’ll save the international spine-tinglers for another post.

🌴 Seven Mile Bridge – Florida Keys

I’ve always dreamed of driving this one in a convertible, wind in my hair. It’s part of a series of bridges connecting the islands from Knights Key to Little Duck Key. A spectacular drive—unless you get caught in a hurricane.

7 mile bridge, Fla

 

🌲 Deception Pass Bridge – Washington

Connecting Whidbey Island to Fidalgo Island, this bridge towers 180 feet above the water. Before it was built, the only way across was by boat or ferry. If you’ve got a fear of heights, don’t look down.

Deception Pass Bridge, WA

🧗 Royal Gorge Bridge – Colorado (not Arkansas)

Correction time! The Royal Gorge Bridge is actually in Colorado, not Arkansas. It stands 955 feet high and once held the title of the world’s highest bridge—until China built the Liuguanghe Bridge. Bungie jumping off this one? Only in your wildest dreams.

Royal Gorge Bridge

🌞 Sunshine Skyway Bridge – St. Petersburg, Florida

Stretching 22,000 feet over Tampa Bay, this bridge arcs between St. Petersburg and Terra Ceia. It has a tragic past: in 1980, a freighter struck the bridge, collapsing a span. It’s also known for attracting those in despair, a sobering reminder of its emotional weight.

Sunshine Skyway Bridge, FLA

🌊 Lake Pontchartrain Causeway – Louisiana

Driving this feels like skimming across water. At 23 miles long and only 16 feet above the surface, it connects New Orleans to the North Shore. Stormy weather? Buckle up and say a prayer.

Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

🌬️ Mackinac Bridge – Michigan

A true giant at 26,000 feet, this bridge replaced ferries between Michigan’s peninsulas in the 1950s. During high winds, cars have been known to drift—so drivers, beware.

Mackinac Bridge, Michigan

Lava Lake Glow

Kilauea 2018 photo credit Deb Neumann

Bridges may not breathe fire or roar like volcanoes, but they challenge us in quieter, more suspenseful ways. Whether it’s the sway beneath your feet or the dizzying height above the water, they dare us to cross—and reward us with breathtaking views and unforgettable stories.

 

Have you crossed a bridge that made your heart race? I’d love to hear about it.