travel Archives - Asya Olson Travel Photography

The green fields over the Miradouro da Serra do Cume viewpoint in Terceira Island.

July 3, 2024

5 Spectacular Things to Do in Terceira Island, Portugal

Far west of Portugal, in a group of islands in the sea, is the bright green Terceira Island. This volcanic island in the Azores Archipelago has some of the most fertile land in the Atlantic. It is known for its amazing caves, large green fields, and sparkling waters. My trip there last April was unforgettable, and I was amazed by how many places there are to explore on such a small island. So today, we’ll be talking about just 5 spectacular things to do in Terceira Island! Read More

The peaks along High Peaks Trail in the midday in Pinnacles National Park.

May 5, 2024

The Best Trails for Hiking Pinnacles National Park

The Pinnacles National Park is the youngest and tiniest national park in the state, and it has everything a hiker could ever want. It’s also just two hours south of San Francisco, making it a great weekend trip. Today, I’m showing off these stunning views through a guide to hiking Pinnacles National Park! Read More

April 27, 2024

The Ultimate One-Day Trip to 8 Waterfalls in Redding, California

Redding is one of my favorite cities to visit in California. The surrounding area offers a fantastic look into everything that makes the northern part of our state beautiful. From the frost-capped Mount Shasta to the misty forests and glittering rivers, there’s so much to see here. I call Redding “the waterfall capital” because waterfalls are an especially iconic part of this region. Did you know you can visit eight waterfalls in Redding, California, in just one day?! Read More

Several cholla cacti in the Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park during the midday.

April 24, 2024

The Best Joshua Tree Photography Spots in 2024

Joshua Tree National Park has so many alien sights–it’s a fantastic place for photographers and explorers. There’s a lot of sentimental value for me here, as my partner and I took our elopement photos among the Joshua trees and ancient, majestic boulders. The pictures we took made me realize just how beautiful the park could be in the right conditions. So today, I’ll be showing a guide to Joshua Tree photography spots! Read More

The overlook of the Tulum Ruins peering over to the sea.

April 21, 2024

The First-Timer’s Ultimate Travel Guide to Tulum, Mexico

It’s hard not to fall in love with the sun-kissed city of Tulum. Just two hours away from the Cancun Airport, Tulum’s proximity and fantastic views make it a quick and perfect getaway. Whether it’s the magical cenotes, the bountiful beaches, or the sun rising over towering ruins, there’s just so much beauty in this little stretch of Mexico. To ensure you have the best experience, I’ve compiled a first-timer’s ultimate travel guide to Tulum. Read More

The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse in Mendocino County, with a woman running down the path to it.

April 11, 2024

The Best Weekend Travel Guide to Mendocino County, California

It always amazes me how quickly the busy historic highways of California change into the cozy, sleepy atmosphere of Mendocino County. It’s one of the oldest counties in the Golden State and has so much history and beauty. Even more, it’s just a few miles north of San Francisco–perfect for a two-day getaway! If you’re looking for a weekend travel guide to Mendocino County, California, we’ll talk about some of the best Read More

Bixby Bridge along Big Sur in California, with Asya Olson standing by the cliff.

March 31, 2024

The Best Insider’s Road Trip Travel Guide to Big Sur

When it comes to road trips, there’s nothing quite like riding down the coastal cliff sides of Big Sur. Highway 1 is one of the most scenic roads in California and possibly one of the most beautiful coasts in the world. The Big Sur region is one of my dearest local destinations. The road from Los Angeles is scheduled to open again this spring after several months of closure, which makes 2024 the best time to start planning your next drive down the coast. Here’s an insider’s guide to road trips and traveling the Big Sur, from someone who’s had the privilege of trekking all over California for over five years.Read More

Asya Olson, traveler, lying on a rock while admiring the sunset on the horizon in Taft Point in Yosemite National Park during the fall season. The view overlooks many of the rock structures of the park.

March 27, 2024

The Best, Most Scenic Photo Spots in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is famous for its gorgeous views. Whether it’s rocky cliffsides, towering waterfalls, or endless woods, it’s no wonder the park invites so many photographers and hikers every year, hungry for the sights it has to offer. After visiting Yosemite in all seasons, I can say there are a few spots I return to all the time for good reason. In winter or summer, spring or fall, these are the best, most scenic photo spots in Yosemite National Park that you Read More

Lakes Trail Aster Lake from a distance Sequoia National Park.

March 24, 2024

The Best Hiking Trails in Sequoia National Park

Stretching over four hundred thousand acres across the southern part of Sierra Nevada, the Sequoia National Park holds the tallest trees on Earth. These dense forests tower over the horizon, making everything around them look tiny and almost unreal. Though you’ve probably heard of General Sherman and all of the giants in the park, you may not know about Read More

Kauai Islands, Waimea Canyon State Park, Hawaii, USA

March 20, 2024

Ultimate First Timer’s Guide to Kauai Island, Hawaii

Hawaii is a popular summer holiday destination spot for all Americans, and Kauai Island especially offers vast canyons and green hiking trails unique to the region’s beach-style reputation. As it’s only a 6-hour flight from Los Angeles and San Francisco, Kauai Island is especially popular among Californians. Many of the island’s hidden gems lay behind Read More

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