Month: September 2015

The Futuro House

Architecture, Travel

This may look like a UFO, but it actually doesn’t fly at all. This object was made for land, as it was created by Matti Suuronen, a Finnish architect. He was hired by Dr. Jaakko Hidenkari in 1968.

The original idea was to make an easy to transport ski-cabin. It could then be used in remote locations and was suitable for most weather conditions. The approximate size of The Futuro House is 26′ in diameter and about 14′ high.

This particular one is located in Frisco, N.C. However, they can be found around the world. Check out The Futuro House to learn more about this iconic and unique piece of history.

Ocracoke Lighthouse

Travel

Ocracoke is one of the barrier islands in the OBX. In fact, in order to get to the island, my husband and I had to drive our car onto a ferry for transport. I’ve been there several times before; however, this was a first for my husband. We threw our bikes on the bike rack and boarded the ferry.

Once we reached the town, the lighthouse was one of our first visits. The original lighthouse was built in 1794; however the one you see in these pictures was built in 1823. It’s actually the second oldest lighthouse still in operation. You can find out more historical information by visiting The National Park Service website.

Ocracoke Inlet is a unique place. There are wonderfully electric and adorable shops, while the island is also marked with an interesting history. If you ever visit the OBX, and have a chance to see Ocracoke we highly recommend it.

Hatteras Sands

Beach, Budget Travel, Travel

We’ve never stayed at Hatteras Sands, but appreciate the roadside beauty. These cottages are reminiscent of dollhouses and show a great level of detail down to the matching picnic tables and flower boxes. They offer an affordable, fun and unique experience!

The cottages provide enough room for 4 people to sleep (one queen downstairs and two beds on the upper level). They also come with a charcoal grill, small refrigerator, microwave and TV. It’s like upscale camping, with a renovated bath house located within walking distance.

There are also tent sites, a single-wide trailer, cabins and rv sites, if you prefer that over a cottage. And good news for guests looking to bring a pet on vacation, this is available for an additional low fee.

Hatteras Sands is about 5 minutes from the beach. Plus, there is a park canal for fishing, crabbing and kayaking. And, there is a pool, laundry facility, large clubhouse and basketball court. They seem to have something for everyone!

Birds of a Feather in OBX

birds, nature, Travel

The Outer Banks (OBX) in North Carolina is known for its beaches. However, it’s not the only reason people visit. OBX is made up of several locations. It’s 200 miles of barrier islands and each location has something to offer. In fact, one of the reasons people visit is for birding.

The best places for birding in the OBX are: The Elizabethan Gardens, Roanoke Island Marsh Game Land, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, Duck, Ocracoke, Buxton and Frisco Woods.

If you’re really interested in birds, you may even want to visit the annual “Wings Over Water” festival held in the OBX. It is a week long event that takes place in October.

Although I don’t consider myself an avid birder or even an intermediate birder, I do enjoy watching them in their elements. Here are few photos we captured on our trip to Hatteras Island.