2×4 FROM TWO BY TOUR: CUENCA STREET ART

The charm and beauty of Cuenca, Ecuador isn't only in its Old World architecture and UNESCO-tier cathedrals and churches. The city teems with layers upon layers of artistic expression.

NATIONAL PARKS GUIDES: AZTEC RUINS NATIONAL MONUMENT

History of the Pueblo people and preservation of an important archeological site is the focus at Aztec. Various narratives are provided, and an archeological perspective is used to explore the items found at the site. From the scraps and shards and remains found on site, the daily life of the Pueblo of the settlement has been reconstructed.

NATIONAL PARKS GUIDES: GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM

The sprawling South Rim campus is a prime example of industrial tourism, as this side of the Grand Canyon shoulders the brunt of 6 million visitors a year. The facilities put great emphasis on accessibility and family-oriented educational programming. Multiple museums and exhibits detail the geologic and historical background of the park. It is also the starting point for hikes going down into the canyon itself.

NATIONAL PARKS GUIDES: GRAND CANYON EAST RIM

The Desert View Watchtower was designed by architect Mary Colter, who also designed several other buildings within Grand Canyon National Park. The Tower was completed in 1932. On May 27, 1987, it was designated a National Historic Landmark as part of a collective nomination of Mary Colter's buildings.

REMEMBERING THE ALAMO CITY

On our way to our room we walked past some of the motel's other guests, who were quietly smoking or finding privacy outside on their phones. Once inside the room, I looked at J, "People definitely live here." I dropped onto the bed. "Oh fuck yeah they do."