We received a lot of advice about getting to Yosemite early, parking in one of the main lots and then taking the Shuttle, which takes you to just about every popular place, or you can hike from those popular places to where you want to be. This was our plan until my 14-year-old daughter sprained her ankle literally two days before our trip and ended up on crutches.  Our plans for hiking now had to be adjusted to Plan B: driving and parking as close to the sights as possible.

Ok, seriously, you need to experience any morning at Bellagio and breakfast at Sadelle's will turn any morning into some sort of holiday. It's candy-colored decor that evokes vintage glamour and elegance mixed with upscale diner vibes.

There is such a sense of pride, community, and patriotism as soon as you step on deck.  Guests are greeted as they arrive, and asked if they have ever served in the US Military.  If Veterans arrivals are announced across the loudspeakers of their position, rank, and service dates.