“Fear can be responsible for changing your life – for better or for worse. If fear persists, you run the risk of missing out on some of the greatest experiences life has to offer.” – Cara Alwill Leyba

Every time I plan a trip or some sort of adventure, I always try to capitalize on the most experiences that I can have during that time. It’s not always about where I go, but more of who that I am with or what I am doing. Here in the states, some of the biggest gems are in places that most people don’t expect. For instance, Idaho is probably one of my favorite places to travel to but most people wouldn’t look twice at it. There is so much beauty and adventure that you can find there, it’s uncanny!

One of the best hidden gems is Boise’s whitewater park. There, in the heart of Idaho, you can practice your surf moves, cruise on the paddle board, kayak, and many more. The one that stands out the most to people is the surfing. There’s this big adjustable wave that draws the attention anywhere from people who have never surfed in their life, to people who would consider themselves an “expert.” Also, depending on the day of the week there, determines how the wave is going to act. Wave/hole days, you can expect to see an increase of kayakers but on green wave days, that’s when you’ll get the traditional stand up surfing. Regardless of the day though, you are not limited to one or the other it just makes it easier to ride if you follow the wave schedule.

A way to branch out and see things out of your typical norm is to get the opinion and ideas from the companions that you travel with. For instance, when my girlfriend and I got together, I knew that she is a big Harry Potter fan. When given the opportunity, we ended up in universal studios Hollywood on the way to Harry Potter world “hogsmeade.” Both of us had a blast and plan to go to Florida to visit the other attractions when we get time. But just like that, prior to meeting her I probably would not have gone. The experiences I shared there was well worth it and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

No matter if you’re traveling by yourself or with a group, always look to make those experiences. If it is slightly out of your way but you know it will make for a good day, just do it! Life is way to short so let’s get out there and start enjoying it.