We Like it Fresh

Only in Lake Baikal (Russia) will you find the freshwater Baikal Seal (aka Nerpa). There are only 3 freshwater seal populations in the world.  I thought this most be a pretty fantastic lake that it is home to this amazing creature   Well, it turns out that this is the larges freshwater lake in the world and holds up to 23% of the world's fresh water.  It is also the world's deepest and oldest lakes (only 25 million years).                            
                                                      Yep... these cuties earless.

It's a scientific mystery of how the seals found themselves in this freshwater lake.  Today, they are an estimated up to 100,000 of these seals in existence.

                                                                         The Lake

 And in the winter...

It's here..

Sky Walking

Sky walking seems simple enough.  Just muster the courage to walk across this 297 foot insane suspension bridge.  But first you have to get there. The walking path leading to the bridge (if you dare to call it a 'path') is only accessible by helicopter (known as heli-hiking). The peak is about 8,600 feet and requires a 1.6 mile hike from the trail-head.  Hiking are provided with safety cable aid in safety.

Fortunately,  there is a Ying to this Yang.  Visitors are welcomed to the Bobbie Burns Mountain Lodge for some R & R after their hike. The lodge has the basic modern luxuries include WIFI, hot tubs, private rooms, food and even a bar.  Again, only accessible by helicopter..  heli-hoteling?  

Look pretty darn nice for a helicopter only accessible hotel.

No experience necessary!!!!  And that is no joke.

TIME TO RELAX

 I'm game!

Yes, it is REAL!

Newberry Springs, California, home to the real Bagdad Café. Yes, it's not just a movie prop.  For those of you who are unfamiliar with the movie Bagdad Café, watch it.  The German movie is an international cult classic and a must see.  But even better than the movie is the real thing, the Bagdad Café.   In no man's land, in the heat of the desert on famous Route 66.   Most summer days are well into the 100s.  The current population is about 2,800 citizens spread over a large area.

Most Americans pay little attention to the treasures found on Route 66, but it is an international hot spot (sort of :) ).  If you are ever heading from southern California to Las Vegas,  be sure to turn off and visit this amazing little restaurant and take yourself back into time.  I hear the food is not that great and the air-conditioner barely blows,  but it is still worth the stop. 

GET YOUR KICKS ON ROUTE  66

I cant recommend this movie enough!!!!  and I am a tough critic!!!!!

Another image from the Bagdad Cafe movie.

A little peek inside.