The chance to hike Walden Woods where Henry David Thoreau wandered every morning, to dip my toes into Thoreau's own pond and see the actual site of his cabin where he wrote his philosophies that continue to inspire wanderers, travelers, humanitarians.  To see a place that both inspired and reflected his sense of simplicity, appreciation, gratitude, and kindness.

Convincing my teenage daughter to hike Pinnacle Peak Mountain turned out to be more than family travel, it was a mother-daughter moment that brought us together.

A travel guide to Surf City where summer lasts forever in Huntington Beach. This place brings the promise of never-ending candy-colored summer days, the perfect wave and glowing sunsets. This is one of my favorite Southern California Beaches, with pristine white sand, a city area that's a part beach town, part downtown just steps from the beach, lots of sunshine, sand, shopping-the kind of place that just sings that Cali vibe.

A guide to where, when and how to see the poppies.

Celebrating Christmas in Los Angeles, WhereGalsWander.com. Travel guide to the best holiday places, light and events.