From Recovery to Renewal: Your Inviting Escape to the Heart of Futaba | Japan Travel Guide

Futaba, located in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, offers visitors a unique and moving experience as they explore the town's resilience and rich history, particularly in light of the recovery following the 2011 earthquake and nuclear disaster. Known as a center for "hope tourism," Futaba invites travelers to learn about its past while witnessing the community's ongoing revival.

One of the main attractions is the Great East Japan Earthquake and Nuclear Disaster Memorial Museum, which provides important insights into the events of 2011. Here, visitors can learn about the evacuation challenges faced by locals and discover the remarkable rebuilding efforts that followed. Nearby, the Futaba Art District captivates visitors with beautiful murals that reflect local culture and history, including representations of the famous daruma dolls. As you stroll through this area, you’ll embark on a visual journey that leads you to the reimagined JR Futaba Station.

Best Restaurants in California, New Mexico, Louisiana, Texas & Across America - Ken's Top Picks

By Ken Hulsey

In 2022, I published an article featuring my top 20 favorite restaurants across the USA. This year, I've expanded that list to 50 establishments, spanning burger joints, pizza places, Mexican eateries, sushi bars, upscale steakhouses, and hidden gems from California to New Jersey.

As a long-time resident of California, Texas, New Mexico, and Louisiana, the majority of the restaurants on my list are located within those states. I hope this comprehensive guide will prove useful for any travelers seeking a delicious meal, whether they're looking for an affordable bite or an upscale dining experience.

A Collection Of The Most Fascinating Places To Visit in Louisiana! | Your Guide To Louisiana Travel

Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey

Joseph Jefferson House & Rip Van Winkle Gardens is truly one of the most captivating destinations in Louisiana. This remarkable historic site beautifully combines a rich past with stunning natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to step into a different world, far removed from the everyday hustle of southern Louisiana life. Nestled on the shores of Lake Peigneur at Jefferson Island, the gardens are meticulously maintained and filled with vibrant, lush plants. As you stroll through the pathways, the enticing array of colors and fragrances creates an enchanting atmosphere, making it easy to imagine you’ve traveled to a distant exotic locale.

Get Your Copy of Route 66: The First 100 Years Today

Route 66: The First 100 Years Hardcover Book

$37.99 @ Amazon.com - Order Here!

Buckle up and take a generational journey with acclaimed Route 66 ambassadors Jim Ross and Shellee Graham as they time travel through the legendary highway’s life, demise, and renaissance. Explore the route from its birth in 1926 through its centennial, and experience the events, people, and places that created the legacy ensuring America’s Mother Road a place in the hearts and minds of the nation.