5 Air Travel Security Tips

Most likely you've lost something valuable at some point in your life. Did you lose it while traveling? I'm sure you remember the heart pounding moment of panic when you realized it was gone. Maybe you left your wallet in a hotel safe, or forgot your phone on a plane. I've found many devices left in airports.


In my millions of miles of travel I've come uncomfortably close to losing many things. I've been lucky enough to have only lost a few things, and only one of any real value, a camera, while traveling in the bush of southern Africa. That was before I discovered digital photography so I only lost one roll of film with it... whew!

Gourmet Food Stand | Bourbon & Burgers (Honorable Mention)

I've decided to break my own rules for this installment of my Bourbon & Burgers series to include Ingo's Tasty Food, in Phoenix, AZ. Ingo's doesn't offer full bar service so I couldn't get my hands on any Bourbon, but the quality of the burger and the experience was worth an Honorable Mention.

I can still taste it... the juicy grass fed beef of the Paris, Texas Burger. I'm trying to get PHX back on my 2015 itinerary to make another visit to Ingo's. I think a creative menu with quality ingredients is reason enough to book a flight back to the southwest, don't you? 

A Tropical Break From Business Travel on Scrub Island | Video

As much as I enjoy traveling I don't always get to travel for pleasure. Mostly I'm on the road for business, working on planes, in airports, and squeezed into conference rooms. 

Business travel is great, but many hours under florescent lights, and lonely nights in distant hotels get me daydreaming about trading my business suit and tie for a Swim Suit, and a Mai Tai.

Southern Character | Bourbon & Burgers

By now you probably know I've been on a quest to consume the best Bourbon & Burgers that America and the world have to offer. I've tasted many quality burgers but there are few the hold top shelf status.

I live in Jacksonville Beach, FL, not far from some locally and nationally renown culinary establishments. What better place to find a truly delicious Bourbon & Burger's combination? I'd like to introduce you to one of my local favorites, Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails.

Old West "Phatty Melt" | Bourbon & Burgers

It's not every day you select your spirits from the largest Single Malt Scotch Whisky selection this side of the pond, but it's this unique opportunity that has me returning to the dusty Mid-Western streets of Omaha, NE each year.

With bottles dated in the 1940s your taste for whisky should be satisfied with the offerings of the Dundee Dell's Great Wall of Scotch. Otherwise you'll need to get on a plane for Scotland because only the homeland has more to offer than "the Dell".

New England Farm Fresh | Bourbon & Burgers

I've been traveling the country in search of the mouth watering deliciousness that is Bourbon & Burgers. Tucked away in unlikely places I've found some pretty amazing spots. 

Today I'm pleased to bring you a recent find from New England. 

5 Key Skills For Winning A Firefight (pt.2)

Following my recent blog titled, "Don't Be A Victim - Firearms Training With Reston Group" I've pulled from my experience during the Concealed Carry Deployment course to put together 5 Key Skills for Winning a Firefight. This is by no means an all inclusive list of firearms skills. 

The difference between winning and losing a firefight may be a matter of fractions of a second. Performing the basics very well can be the difference.  You don't need to be fancy, you just need to perform the skills required faster than the other guy.

Valley Of The Sun | Photo Recap

Sunrise from South Mountain

Occasionally I travel for work. Yes, that's right, I have a grown up job in addition to my blogging and adventuring.

Unlike my my wife, Amy West, my day job doesn't include cushy 5 star resorts, award winning restaurants, and hot stone massages. 

Oh to be a beautiful travel blogger. But I digress.

I always try to find some fun when I'm on the road. This is my recap of a recent trip to Phoenix, AZ.

Don't Be A Victim - Firearms Training With Reston Group (pt.1)

Ever been in a firefight? They don't last long, only seconds, maybe three if you're lucky. If you aren't prepared you'll miss the whole show, but you won't know the difference.... cause you'll be dead.

I recently encountered my first firefight. I stood 21 feet from my "attacker", locked my eyes on his, waiting for him to make his move. He went for his firearm and I went for mine. I drew first, and in a rush of adrenaline I put one bullet in his right shoulder, then a second in his sternum. Less than two seconds and it was over. With a bullet wound in my side I would survive. Had I hesitated I would be dead.

Independence Day Profile Of A Soldier & Friend | Interview & Art

Army service pistol

If you've never experienced a Third World revolution don't fret, there is still time. Make your way to Jacksonville Beach on the 4th of July. It's basically a live reenactment of our nation's fight for independence, including live ammunition. 

There is nothing quite like dodging incoming Roman Candle fire in flip flops. It brings a new appreciation for the "rocket's red glare". I recommend thinking carefully about taking young children cause it's a legit war zone.

But as we approach this revered celebration of our nation's independence I'd like to say something to those who have stood between the homeland and her enemies.

To all who serve and have served to defended our independence.

Thank you for your service and your sacrifice!