Tacoma. Much maligned and looked down on over the decades (mostly by Seattleites) today is one of the Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest. And many Pierce County residents would like to keep it that way. But Tacoma is definitely worth a visit for a bustling food scene, multiple amazing museums, performing arts, history and one of the best parks in all of Washington State. Here are my recommendations Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Tacoma Washington.
Tall Ships in Tacoma
History
Tacoma’s history is deeply intertwined with its selection as the Northern Pacific Railroad’s western terminus in 1873, which spurred significant growth and led to its incorporation in 1875. The city, originally known as Commencement City, became a crucial transportation hub where “rails met sails” on Commencement Bay. This strategic location allowed Tacoma to develop into a major port city and a center for industry.
The area was inhabited for thousands of years by Native Americans, most recently the Puyallup tribe. Today the Puyallup Tribe of Indians is a federally-recognized tribe from western Washington State.
Tacoma Union Stations (Canva)
Today’s Tacoma
Nestled on Commencement Bay with stunning views of Mount Rainier, Tacoma has transformed itself into a modern hub with a thriving economy and cultural scene. Key industries include healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and a strong maritime presence thanks to the Port of Tacoma. The port is one of the largest container ports in the US and a significant economic driver in Pierce County, supporting over 42,000 jobs and contributing $3 billion in labor income.
Tacoma Dome at dusk (Canva)
Beyond economics, Tacoma embraces a lively food, arts and culture scene. The combination of a dynamic economy, rich cultural scene, and access to natural beauty makes modern Tacoma a desirable place to live and visit. So let me share with you some of my favorite things about Tacoma. There is more too, so be sure to check out Visit Tacoma Pierce County.
The infamous Tacoma Narrows Bridges
Theater Gem
The Grand Cinema
The Grand Cinema is a non-profit art house theater in downtown Tacoma, dedicated to enriching the community through the art of film. Since its inception as a non-profit in 1997, it has grown to include four screens and offers a diverse selection of independent, foreign, and documentary films. “The Grand” as it’s affectionately known, is also home to the Tacoma Film Festival. Hands down one of my favorite things in Tacoma.
The Grand Cinema
Tacoma loves this independent theater
Outdoors Gem
Locals love to ask “is The Mountain out?” and no one needs to ask which mountain they are referring to. In fact ‘THE MOUNTAIN IS OUT’ is a local branding phrase, and a perfect one for Tacoma, where you can have the most incredible Mount Rainier views nearly anywhere you go.
“The Mountain” Tacoma claims
Point Defiance
Hands down one of my favorite hidden gems of Tacoma is Point Defiance Park. A sprawling 760-acre urban oasis offering diverse attractions and natural beauty, it features the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, historic Fort Nisqually, an incredible Rose Garden, beaches, and extensive trails within old-growth forests. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Puget Sound, Vashon Island, and the Tacoma Narrows, making it a popular destination for recreation and exploration
We love to hike the trails at Point Defiance
Something for every kid at heart
My mom at the Point Defiance Rose Garden
History and beauty in Tacoma
Re-developed Ruston Way
Ruston Way has been an integral part of the fabric of Tacoma for nearly as long as the city has been in existence. In the 1800s, the Ruston Way area was developed as a mining town during America’s industrial revolution.
In 1968, the city purchased more waterfront property to support the idea for Ruston Way as a “quality waterfront attraction.” It was this forward thinking that allowed Ruston Way to be a key facet of the city’s waterfront amenities, even to this day.
Throughout the 20th century, city representatives have made various attempts to broaden the appeal and usefulness of Ruston Way. However, only in the last decade has Ruston Way finally begun to evolve into its own, distinct character.
Tacoma forebears would not even recognize the Ruston Way of today. Cleaned of pollution and one of the city’s favorite gathering places for strolling, running, viewing marine wildlife and of course dining at one of dozens of restaurants.
Tacoma’s Antique Row, located on Broadway between 7th and 9th Streets, is a vibrant district filled with unique shops offering a wide array of vintage and antique goods. This area is a treasure trove for those seeking one-of-a-kind items, from furniture and clothing to jewelry and memorabilia. One of my favorite places to just browse, but occasionally I will bring home a treasure.
I only recently discovered this hidden gem…and now I will be back. Tucked into an upstairs shop on Broadway, this store offers a stunning collection of used, new and vintage pieces in top condition and fairly priced. So glad I found it.
Both new and vintage at Tacoma Furniture Consignment
The Washington State History Museum, located in downtown Tacoma, offers a comprehensive look into the state’s past through interactive exhibits, dynamic storytelling, and a vast collection of artifacts. Changing exhibits and permanent collection, the museum is housed in a part of the historic Union Station.
Washington State History Museum
Changing exhibits at Washington State History Museum in Tacoma
McMenamin’s Elks Temple originally built in 1916 as a fraternal lodge, has been meticulously restored to its former glory, preserving its architectural details while adding modern amenities. It now features 45 unique hotel rooms, multiple bars and restaurants, a brewery, a theater, and event spaces. A must visit.
Museum of Glass is a premier contemporary art museum dedicated to glass and glass making (Dale Chihuly is from Tacoma). It features a large studio where live glassblowing demonstrations take place and hosts a variety of exhibitions and art installations.
Tacoma Art Museum focuses on art and artists from the Pacific Northwest and the broader western region of the United States. Founded in 1935, TAM has a rich history rooted in the community and has grown to become a nationally recognized regional museum.
Tacoma Art Museum (Canva)
Restaurant Gems
Saved the best for last here, because the restaurant scene in Tacoma is insane. Here I list many of our preferred places to dine – some new and some long-favorites. This is by no means all the dining options in tasty Tacoma. Oh no. But this is some you should not miss.
Woven Sushi & Chophouse unbelievable menu of delicious local food with a spectacular view. I love this restaurant and can eat there again and again.
Oysters at Woven
My birthday at Woven
Wooden City get a reservation for this popular and tiny spot in downtown Tacoma for their unique menu and great service.
Bone Marrow at Wooden City
Unique and beautiful food at Wooden City
Burger Soul (sometimes listed as Seoul) this take out burger joint is the real deal. Giant portions, delicious burgers and more.
Burger is amazing at Burger Soul
Dirty Oscars Annex some of the best food in Tacoma at this 21 and over dive bar on 6th avenue. I love it for breakfast but there is much to love all day long.
Giant portions at Dirty Oscars
Over the Moon a true hidden gem and one of my all time favorites in Tacoma. Special occasion or any day, get a reservation at this tiny and delicious Tacoma jewel.
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Tacoma Washington
GPSMyCity has several Tacoma walking tours, check it out here. Tacoma is a great destination for a day trip or a longer visit. Add it to your hidden gems bucket list before the secret is out!
The ferry runs between Point Defiance and Vashon Island
Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Tacoma Washington. More hidden gems coming soon! We love it when you pin, share, comment and spend time on our website. Thank you!
What would happen to a down and out lonely old man if he is mistaken for someone else? Life can have unexpected twists and turns, and that is the story of today’s Book Review The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston.
Mistaken Identity
A case of mistaken identity turns into a comedy and tragedy as Frederick Fife finds himself living as someone else in a nursing home. The lonely old man was out of money and about to lose his apartment, when suddenly his life changed. Despite trying several times to explain who he really was, no one at the nursing home will listen. Fred is frustrated at the ageism he experiences, but begins to enjoy his warm bed and hot meals so decides to just live as Bernard Greer, believing he isn’t hurting anyone.
Friends and Family
Fred has no family of his own, but this kind and gentle soul immediately makes friends in the nursing home, all while the staff wonder about his positive change in personality and improving health. Things are going along well until Bernard’s estranged daughter shows up. Having not laid eyes on her father in 30 years, even she does not recognize that Bernard is actually Fred.
Comedy of Errors
What will happen as Fred finds himself dug deeper and deeper in this misconception, unwilling to hurt those around him but living with heavy guilt?
It’s a fun and uplifting story, with a variety of well-developed characters all looking for a sense of purpose. The book looks at issues of aging, family, memory, grief and friendship. A perfect summer read.
Book Review The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston
****Four stars for The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston.
This book showed up on a must read list I follow and since it is really long, it seemed like a good one to listen to on Audible in the car. More than 28 hours of listening it is an epic story, book one of two, and I was transfixed. Here is my book review The Will of the Many by James Islington.
The Future?
It’s never exactly clear if this fantasy novel is Earth in the future or something else. It’s a dystopian society that is both backward and forward of where we are on present day Earth. And yet it is also a mysterious place, where personal “Will” can be traded or “ceded” for favor, and those with more “Will” are the Hierarchy of this society known as The Catenan Republic.
Secrets
Vis Telimus is not who most people think he is. Keeping his real identify secret, he feigns being an orphan after a tragic accident. He is “adopted” by the powerful Magnus Quintus Ulciscor Telimus. Ulciscor places Vis in the prestigious Catenan Academy to find out answers to secrets. But Ulciscor’s wife has her own answers she is searching for. Vis is a spy for both, all while knowing if they knew his real identify they would kill him.
Rising Through the Ranks
Vis must rise through the ranks of the Academy, and try to make friends while learning as much as he can about the Hierarchy, a murder, a secret chamber and what is really going on behind this “civilized society”. A lot for a young man who really wants justice for his own family’s murder.
Book One of Two
When I started this book I did not realize it would leave me hanging in the end…as we wait for the second book scheduled for November 2025. The novel is a bit Harry Potter, a bit Hunger Games and a bit Lord of the Flies, all while most definitely not YA. I was intrigued by the story, though complicated, left with many questions at the end, and looking forward to what will happen in the next installment.
Book Review The Will of the Many by James Islington
Thank you for reading my book review The Will of the Many by James Islington. I really recommend it if you are looking for an epic story with intrigue and fantasy.
“To travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive.” – Robert Louis Stevenson.
The question I get most often from people about our travels is “what’s your favorite country?” Honestly, I don’t love that question, because after visiting 147 countries, there are really only a handful I wouldn’t return to. Certainly, there are ones I like more than others…but choosing a favorite? Impossible. When I look back at all my travels, I find I am most fond of the countries that were unexpected for beauty, kindness, cost, culture, food and people. Some of our favorite experiences have been in lesser traveled destinations, where we met few other people like us. And today with over-tourism in places like France and Spain – finding the hidden gems is our goal and pleasure. So instead of telling you what my favorite country is, let me encourage you to travel to these unexpectedly amazing countries, full of adventure with fewer crowds.
EUROPE
I have visited almost all the European countries in Western, Eastern and Central Europe. There are still a few on my list. And though I of course have enjoyed time in the most popular countries like France, Spain and Italy, these are not on today’s list. You probably have also visited places like France, Spain and Italy, but have you considered travel to these unexpectedly amazing countries?
Poland
Poland
Why go to Poland?
Poland has everything the other European countries have, but it is so underrated as a destination. We spent three week traveling around Poland (by train) and loved it. The history, particularly WWII, is astonishing. The food (pierogies for the win!) is outstanding and the cities are gorgeous. Poland was home to Frederic Chopin, Marie Curie, Roman Polanski, Helena Rubenstein and many more. Poland has a rich arts and music culture, beautiful public squares, many performance facilities, and delicious food. Not all Poles speak English, but that adds to the charm of the place, and we absolutely loved all the wonderful locals we met.
Don’t Miss
Krakow for the beautiful square, musical performances, and a tour to Auschwitz. Don’t miss the small towns of Poznan and Wroclaw. Be sure to visit Warsaw to learn about the Jewish Ghetto and to see the public art. See posts I wrote about the amazing food of Poland here.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria
Why go to Bulgaria?
We spent the month of June in Bulgaria early in the Grand Adventure travels. We chose Bulgaria because it is not in the Schengen so it did not count against our 90 Schengen days for other Europe countries. But we were so unexpectedly enamored of the food, the fabulous history and beaches. And it remains one of the least expensive countries we have ever visited.
Bulgaria has surprising Roman ruins that you can visit without any other tourists around. We met some of the most amazing people, who were so genuinely grateful that we chose their country. Even those we met who spoke no English were so happy to meet us, and hugging was not uncommon. Bulgaria, like many Eastern European countries has had many conflicts and political changes over the millennia. But the people take it in stride and are proud and patriotic. Bulgaria is popular with Russian tourists and we met only one other American couple during our 30 day visit.
Don’t Miss
Sofia the capital has incredible history right under foot. Veliko Tarnova was our favorite, a fabulous mountain town built hanging above a river. Great hiking there. And Sozopol on the Black Sea was gorgeous and the beach here was incredible.
Malta
Malta
Why Go to Malta?
Becoming more popular, but still under the radar, this island nation was such a big surprise. If you go consider spring or fall, not during the summer when it does get crowded. We stayed in the city of Valletta, which reminded me of Dubrovnik. It is a magical place. We rented a car a couple of days to get outside of Valletta and visit Peter’s Pool, Blue Grotto, Mdina & Rabat. We took a day trip to the tiny island of Gozo, which would be worth a longer stay if you had the time. Everyone speaks English, but Malta has its own language as well called Maltese. I would love to go back to this relaxing, beautiful and unique place.
Don’t Miss
Valletta is beautiful, has cheap and delicious food and wine. Read all about our wonderful visit here Marvelous Malta.
Georgia
Georgia
Why Go to Georgia?
Last fall we visited the Eastern European countries of Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan over a three week period. We loved them all but Georgia really settled into a place in my heart. We spent the majority of our time in the capital city of Tbilisi, with some incredible daytrips outside of town to see the mountainous beauty of this country. Everyone spoke English and the people were kind and welcoming. Georgia struggled after the fall of the USSR but has come back strong. Yet like many countries around the world, mine included, an authoritarian leader has emerged, and the people are once again fighting for their rights. I loved the resilience of these people and the patriotism.
Don’t Miss
The food. Unexpected and incredible, the unique cuisine of Georgia is one of the best in the world. I took a food tour and a wine tasting tour (their wine is incredible) and loved every mouthful. Be sure to visit the thermal baths in the city of Tbilisi and make the trek to Kazbegi and Gudauri – stunningly beautiful. Read more about why I love Georgia here.
Cyprus
Cyprus
Why Go to Cyprus?
Cyprus will forever be in my heart because of the many kindnesses afforded us when we were locked down on this island nation in the early days of the world-wide pandemic. We were very lucky to find ourselves stuck here, despite not being able to move around the island. Luckily we made friends and felt safe and had everything we needed. We loved the people so much, two years later we returned for a ten day visit without restrictions. Read about it here.
Don’t Miss
Incredible UNESCO heritage sites throughout the island. Beaches that rival anywhere. Take a tour and cooking class with Cyprus Taste Tours. Eat all the food that is much like Greek, but also very much it’s own. If you are so inclined, you can walk across the UN Protected Border to Northern Cyprus for lunch and then walk back.
CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA
There are handful of countries, mostly island nations, I still have not visited in Central and South America. But I have spent a lot of time in the most popular destinations like Costa Rica, Belize, Brazil and Argentina. But the ones I had my favorite experiences in were;
Honduras (Roatan)
Roatan Honduras
Why Go to Roatan?
The island of Roatan, just off mainland Honduras, is not plagued with some of the crime and issues found on the mainland. And direct flights to the island from Miami are easy, skipping going through the mainland. We spent an entire month in the tiny town of West End, and loved the relaxed Caribbean vibe. Though the beaches in the town were not great, there are many beaches on the island that are remarkable. If you don’t have a car, it can be difficult to get groceries, but we found a driver who was helpful to us when we wanted to tour or to go to the super market. It’s a very laid back experience and worth a visit.
Don’t Miss
Do an island tour with a guide to hit the main spots around the small island including the most beautiful beaches, hidden restaurants and the local microbrewery. Other fun spots including Daniel Johnson’s Sloth Sanctuary and the Roatan Botanical Gardens. Read about our Favorite Things in Roatan here.
Guatemala
Guatemala
Why Go to Guatemala?
We enjoyed a self-guided three week tour of Guatemala, arriving by a small open air boat from Belize. Our visit included Lake Flora and Tikal Mayan Ruins. We adored Antigua and were witness to the spectacle of Semana Santa over Easter. And we left our heart in Lake Atitlan…one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I have ever been. The people are quiet and kind. Curious and welcoming. Few people speak English except in the cities, but we had no problems.
Don’t Miss
Gorgeous and historic Antigua is incredible. Do a walking tour, history tour and take a Cooking Class. Lake Flora and Tikal are incredible for the beauty and history. And sit back and relax for a few days at hidden Lake Atitlan. Read more what I loved about Guatemala here.
Bolivia
Bolivia
Why Go to Bolivia?
Long on my bucket list, Bolivia did not disappoint. A remarkable place. Difficult to get around as an independent traveler (but not impossible), we chose to do a group tour while in Bolivia. We have no regrets about that choice – Intrepid Travel and our guide made the experience unforgettable. I recommend it highly. Bolivia has its issues (like everywhere) but it is fast becoming a popular tourist destination. I recommend you go soon.
Don’t Miss
La Paz was astonishing and seeing the way of life at 12,000 feet is worth the trip. Hands down the best thing in this country is the Uyuni Salt Flats. Stunningly beautiful and indescribable . Reaching the highest altitude I have ever been at was worth it for the views, even though I was sick for a couple of days. Read more about our ten day tour and all we did here. Go to Bolivia!
AFRICA
The continent of Africa is huge, and incredibly diverse. Each of the 54 nations that make up Africa have their own cultures, foods, geology, history, language and people. No two are alike, and it’s one of the reasons we have enjoyed visiting this continent on several occasions. I encourage you to travel to these unexpectedly amazing countries –
Namibia
Namibia
Why Go to Namibia
When we get the question “What is our favorite country?”, we often list off a dozen or so, and Namibia is always on that list. We had one of our most favorite travel experiences in Namibia. We hired a guide from Wild Wind Safaris to take us for ten days around this remarkably diverse country, and we loved every minute of it. From ocean to mountain to the best safari of our three, Namibia has it all. Learn about our Safari here. Learn about the rest of Namibia here.
Don’t Miss
Everything about Namibia was incredible. If you don’t have ten days though, do a shorter tour and don’t miss Etosha National Park (mind blown) and the astonishing Sossusvlei Dunes. Otherworldly.
Madagascar
Madagascar
Why Go to Madagascar?
Oh My Gosh – it is awesome. The people in Madagascar are generally very poor, but they are also the hardest working people I have ever met. Other than in the very large and crowded capital city of Antananarivo, we felt so safe and welcome. The reason to visit Madagascar is for the incredible nature and wildlife – particularly the lemurs, found nowhere else in the world. We did a private tour (there are so many tour companies to choose from) and really felt we saw a lot of the country in ten days. However, there is much we didn’t see, and I would love to go back. Read here about why I am Mad about Madagascar.
Don’t Miss
Most tours will take you on generally the same route. You definitely want to see Avenue of the Baobabs (also called Baobab Alley), and lemurs, lemurs, lemurs! I had no idea there were so many different kinds. I also LOVED all the chameleons, and others: lizards, insects, butterflies and birds. Be sure and have your guide take you on a night walk – fascinating!
ASIA
Central, East and SE Asia all have a wide variety of culture and people, and the food is also incredible everywhere you go. I loved Vietnam and Japan and Indonesia but I encourage you to step out of the box and consider:
The Stans
The Stans
Why Go to the Stan Countries
Okay so what are The Stans? When I refer to The Stans I am talking about the five Central Asian nations of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. We visited all five of these countries on a 28 day tour with Intrepid travel last fall. I LOVED IT! I was worried about a 28 day tour but Intrepid is so great, our guide was incredible and each of these countries offered all that I dream of in a destination. History, culture, nature, beauty, food….and so much more. Did I have a favorite? Nope. But Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan definitely stand out.
Don’t Miss
The incredible cities of Samarkand and Khiva in Uzbekistan. The night market in Khujand, Tajikistan. Hiking Charyn Canyon and Issyk Lake in Kazakstan, Skazka Canyon and eagle hunting in Kyrgyzstan. Check out Intrepid’s tours to this remarkable region of Asia. I can’t say enough good things about the experience.
Borneo
Borneo
Why Go to Borneo
We made a quick visit to Borneo from Malaysia (where we spent a month) specifically to see the endangered orangutans. We stayed at the incredible Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, right next door to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. Not a zoo but a place for endangered orangutans to come, at their own free will, to get additional and much needed nourishment. Seeing these creatures, not behind fences, but walking around the wild was so astonishing. I loved it so much.
Don’t Miss
Don’t miss the Sepilok Orangutan Center, and the nearby Labak Bay Proboscis Monkey Reserve. Both incredible. I highly recommend staying at the Sepilok Forest Edge Resort, and if it’s the season, sign up for an evening firefly boat ride.
Philippines
Philippines
Why Go to the Philippines
I have to say, our month on the Philippine island of Panglao was one of the most unexpectedly pleasant places we have been anywhere in the world. It was our first time in the Philippines, and we really had no expectations. What we found was sunshine, inexpensive restaurants, kind people, beautiful beaches and THOUSANDS of scooters.
Don’t Miss
One of our most astonishing days on Bohol was visiting the Philippine Tarsier Foundation Sanctuary and getting up close and personal with the endangered, fascinating and teeny Tarsier. Our other absolutely do-not-miss thing is snorkeling with a guide off of Napaling Reef on the NW side of Panglao. One of my favorite snorkeling experiences ever.
OCEANIA & SOUTH PACIFIC
Sometimes overlooked and misunderstood, this vast area of 14 island nations is difficult to get to, thus less touristed. But so worth it. Australia and New Zealand, two of our favorite countries, are totally worth visiting. And many people do visit, despite how difficult they are to reach. Although we are not planning to see all of the islands in this region, we do hope to visit a few more in the years ahead. So beyond Australia and New Zealand you should consider something completely different;
French Polynesia
French Polynesia
Why Go to French Polynesia
Often mistakenly referred to as Tahiti, the island nation of French Polynesia is made up of 118 islands, one of which is Tahiti. We spent seven weeks on the island of Moorea, with a quick three days on Bora Bora. I loved the laid back island vibe of Moorea, even though there isn’t much going on. We hiked, snorkeled, relaxed, ate great seafood and loved every day. Moorea is a big dive destination too.
Don’t Miss
Moorea can be reached by ferry from Papeete, Tahiti where the international airport is. But to access other islands there is also a small airport on Moorea. We loved our food tour, learning about the unique local cuisine, a mix of many immigrants and islanders. I also took two cooking classes with CookLab Cooking School, and we loved a day trip to Coco Beach.
Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea
Why Go to Papua New Guinea
A caveat. This country is not for everyone. It was not a pleasure cruise. Papua New Guinea has lots of issues from crime to poor water and bad infrastructure. But, it also has one of the most ancient cultures still remaining on this planet. It was eye-opening to attend the annual Goroka Festival, where more than 100 tribes descend to spend a weekend dancing and celebrating in their native costume. I will never forget it.
Don’t Miss
The Goroka Festival. Hands down one of the most incredible cultural experiences of my life. Village visit – make sure you have a tour that will take you into the villages to see this ancient way of life on this remote island. Our tour also included some amazing bird watching excursions – and we saw the elusive bird of paradise. It’s far from five-star hotels and first class dining, but it will make you a better person.
Travel to These Unexpectedly Amazing Countries
“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” – Unknown.
We have worked hard, given up a lot, but have no regrets about the travel life we have created. I know some of the places we visit are not for everyone. But I implore you to consider travel to these unexpectedly amazing countries. Choose wisely in this time of both political and travel unrest. Be courteous and kind to host countries, and be aware of the impact you are making. The world is huge. There are so many undiscovered places to visit, many without millions of other tourists crowding the sites and restaurants. Be an explorer not a tourist. Just go.
PLEASE NOTE – we are heading out for the first of two North American road trips this summer. I will be posting regularly on Instagram but will not have a blog post on Friday for a few weeks. Wednesday Book Reviews will continue. Follow us on Instagram here.
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I have been a fan of V.E. Schwab ever since I read The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue about five years ago. At that time I did not see myself as a fantasy reader. But Schwab changed that with her unique style of reality against fantasy and good against evil. I have read a lot of her work since Addie LaRue, and this week I’m sharing another favorite. Here is my Book Review Vicious by V.E.Schwab.
Ambition
The underlying theme of this mind-bending book is ambition and the evil it begets. The book bounces back and forth over a decade time frame with two brilliant college roommates, Eli & Victor, creating a chaotic and dangerous game for their Senior Thesis. When things go terribly wrong, people start to die. Ambition gets the better of the friends, and they turn against each other after their fascinating discovery – how to create supernatural powers in humans.
Revenge
Victor will end up in prison for ten years, while Eli spends the decade trying to eradicate every other human with super powers. When Victor gets out of prison, he has one goal…revenge. Eli’s own superpower is to heal himself, while his girlfriend has the power to make others obey her. Meanwhile Victor has his own power to give and take-away pain. He meets Sydney, who is running from Eli and has her own remarkable superpower, and with Victor’s prison mate Mitch they hatch a plan to do away with Eli once and for all.
Book Review Vicious by V.E.Schwab
I really enjoyed this book and found the characters were fascinating and well developed. The story line is fast paced and violent but kept my attention, right up to the final sentence. It’s a story about loneliness, and searching for meaning. It is a story about family and grief and how a superpower is not always about being a hero. It can be about becoming vicious. It’s a story about redemption and bending reality, while coming back around to the strength of friendship.
*****Five stars for Vicious by V.E. Schwab.
Thanks for reading my Book Review Vicious by V.E.Schwab. See last week’s book review Unshackeled by Amanda DuBois. We love it when you comment, pin and share our book reviews. Thank you.
One of the most frequent questions I get asked is; “How do you find information and decide where to go and what to do when making travel plans?” In today’s world where we have a computer in our pocket, it is so incredibly easy! I can’t imagine trying to live a full-time travel life 30 years ago without the instant access we have now. Today travel apps, travel blogs and Pinterest are my go to source for ideas on places to travel and things to do.
That said, it can also be overwhelming because there is SO MUCH information out there. Where to start? I recommend you narrow it down and one of my favorite apps is GPSMyCity. You have seen me mention GPSMyCity multiple times in my blog posts over the years. It is a great place to get guided map tours, as well as read travel articles from experienced travel writers…like me! It’s fun to Travel Smart and Easy with GPS My City App.
Why GPS My City?
This app is great…and it just keeps getting better. For years we have used it for guided walking tour all around the world. Now, travel writers like myself will have featured articles you can download directly through the GPSMyCity App. Once downloaded it will be available to you to use, even without internet connection.
I am partnering with GPSMyCity, as one of their featured travel writers. For a limited time (July 7-21, 2025) my readers will have access via the GPSMyCity app to three of my articles FREE of charge;
It’s an awesome opportunity to check out GPSMyCity, and get to know a fabulous travel planning tool. A tool that I have used around the world in many of the 147 countries to learn, grow and experience the rich cultures and history of the world. Just like me, you can Travel Smart and Easy with GPS My City App.
Next use the search bar to type in any destination. Chances are good you will find a travel article (maybe mine!) for the destination you want to explore.
Next download the articles so you have access to them offline…then get ready to explore!
Try It Today
Want to try it? You definitely should. Click and get started at www.GPSMyCity.com and be sure to check out my free featured articles between July 7-21 so you can Travel Smart and Easy with GPS My City App.
Port Gamble, Washington, at the northern tip of the Kitsap Peninsula, is a historic mill town. Founded in 1853 by Pope and Talbot’s Puget Mill Company. Originally known as Teekalet, the name was changed to Port Gamble after the bay it is situated on. Let me tell you about one of my favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
Stroll around this preserved mill town
History
Founders Josiah Keller, William Talbot, and Andrew Pope developed the company town reflecting the New England style of East Machias, Maine. Port Gamble served as a lumber community, shipping lumber worldwide. After 142 years, the mill closed in 1995. The town has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark District, showcasing its unique 19th-century architecture.
So many historic buildings to admire
Entrance to the Historic Museum
Registered Historic Landmark
Where is Port Gamble
It’s a perfect stop for travelers headed to the Olympic Peninsula via Bainbridge Island or the Kitsap Peninsula. An unincorporated community, it is part of the Port Gamble Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. Port Gamble sits on the west side of of Port Gamble Bay and near the shores of Hood Canal. The Port Gamble S’Kallam Reservation is on the east side. It is definitely a Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
A perfect place to order a take away lunch and wander down to the picnic tables with a view. Easy to order ahead on the website. There are a few tables inside too and a great espresso stand.
Butcher Baker Provisions is housed in a historic service station
Shared this giant fried chicken sandwich with my mom. It was amazing
You must spend some time in this unique shop with a wonderful selection of unique items. For gifts or for yourself, it’s hard to leave the Port Gamble General Store without a treasure. A small cafe in the back serves sandwiches and ice cream. A new restaurant is slated for late 2025 as well.
With extra time you should visit this lovely forested 3500 acre park. Trails for walking, biking, and horses, and access to water for kayaks. Just south of the town of Port Gamble.
Port Gamble Heritage Forest Park
Make a Visit
Port Gamble is close to many other fabulous Kitsap Peninsula destinations like Poulsbo and Bainbridge. It is also an easy day trip from Bremerton, Tacoma, or Seattle. Make a visit to this true hidden gem, and step back in time for a perfect day. It is a favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
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