(STILL CREEK, RHODODENDRON, OREGON, USA)

"We were staying with friends in an old steiner cabin just outside of Rhododendron, Oregon, that sits just off of Still Creek. We slipped away through the old growth forest to Still Creek. The water is fed by glacial runoff from Mount Hood, so it was quite cold this time of year, only allowing for a few shocking moments in the water." - William Imhold

Go : Head east out of Portland to the small Mountain Town. During the summer there are many hiking trails in the area and tons of beautiful forests and wildlife. Winter months this area sees a fair amount of snow and Mount Hood has many ski resorts.  

Stay : There is at least one inn in Rhododendron but I would highly recommend finding a cabin for rent. Sitting on the porch listening to the rainfall through the forest with a cup of coffee is a beautiful way to start the day.

Eat : The town itself is small but offers quite a few dining options. There is a steakhouse and Mexican place as well as some fast food options. I personally recommend heading up the highway a bit to the Skyway Bar and Grill. Their mac and cheese is phenomenal.

Drink : We went for several nice walks while we stayed in the area and found a wonderful coffee cart that is set up year round in the parking lot of Mt. Hood Foods. 

(NAS BEACH, IKARIA ISLAND, GREECE)

"Nas is a small, pretty, and sandy beach. Its name is taken from the river Nas that ends at the beach. My friends, a couple, and I came here on vacation to swim. Last winter, because of bad weather, the river overflowed and dragged some rocks and big trees into the sea. Because of this, the bottom of the sea was very interesting to look at and capture in photos. We knew that this was a nudist beach, but funnily enough we were the only ones there naked! Some of the people started to look at us like we were the strange ones. So we ran to the sea, feeling free and protected inside the warm and inviting water. " - Peggy Zouti

Go : The island of Ikaria is well known for the traditional local festivals (called Panigiri), which are organized every two or three days during the summer period, from May to October. The summer in particular attracts a lot of back packers and campers that are there to attend the festivals.

Stay : If you are a free camper, you can stay along the river Nas or if you prefer more confortable accommodation you can stay in one of the local beach hotels nearby such as the Villa Armenisti on Nas Beach Road, The Erofili Beach Hotel, The Cavos Bay Hotel, or The Ikaros Star Hotel.

Eat : Visitors can taste traditional Greek products, such as feta, tzatziki, and the local specialties, roasted lamb and fresh fish. 

Drink : It is also worth trying the local red wine, which is produced in several places in Ikaria and has a heavy taste.