James Clendenin, Author at Crazy Nomad

15 California Breathtaking Scenic Lookouts Locals Try to Keep Hidden

July 22, 2025 by James Clendenin

Go beyond the postcard spots to where the real magic happens.

California’s iconic vistas are famous for a reason, but they often come with crowds that can diminish the magic. For every packed tourist viewpoint, there’s a nearby ridge, park, or pull-out that offers an even more breathtaking perspective, known only to those who live here. These are the places locals go to watch the sunset, clear their heads, and remember why they love this state.

This list is a roadmap to those hidden gems, the spots that deliver million-dollar views without the million-person crowds.

10 Must-See Famous Bookshops On Your Travels

July 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

These shops are destinations in and of themselves.

In an age of digital readers and one-click ordering, the physical bookshop remains a special kind of sanctuary. The best ones are more than just stores; they are cultural institutions, architectural marvels, and community hubs imbued with the quiet magic of discovery. They are places built for Browse, for getting lost in the aisles, and for stumbling upon a story you never knew you needed.

For the literary traveler, these famous bookshops around the world are essential pilgrimages, destinations worth planning a trip around.

13 Mysterious Places That Scientists Can’t Explain

July 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

Our planet still holds secrets that defy easy answers.

Even in an age of satellite imagery and deep-sea exploration, some places on Earth remain stubbornly enigmatic. These are the sites where the known laws of science and history seem to bend, leaving experts with more questions than answers. They are natural wonders that shouldn’t exist and ancient constructions that seem impossible, challenging our understanding of the world and our past.

Each location on this list is a puzzle. They are places that invite speculation and wonder, reminding us that for all we have discovered, there are still profound mysteries waiting to be unraveled by future generations of scientists.

These Are the U.S. Airlines That Have the Best Legroom

July 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

An inch or two of extra space can make all the difference at 35,000 feet.

In the world of air travel, few things are as precious as personal space, and legroom often feels like the ultimate luxury. As airlines have worked to fit more passengers onto each plane, the distance between your knees and the seat in front of you has become a critical factor in a comfortable flight. Some carriers, however, have resisted the urge to squeeze every last inch out of their cabins.

This list highlights the U.S. airlines that prioritize passenger comfort by offering more generous legroom, both in their standard economy seats and through premium upgrade options. Knowing who gives you more space can be a game-changer.

10 Things the TSA Security Wishes You Knew

July 21, 2025 by James Clendenin

A little preparation on your part makes the line move faster for everyone.

The airport security line can often feel like an adversarial experience, a necessary hurdle between you and your vacation. For the Transportation Security Administration officers, however, it’s just another day at the office, and they see the same preventable mistakes over and over. They aren’t trying to make your life difficult; in fact, they’d prefer a smooth and speedy process just as much as you do.

A few simple insights into their procedures and pet peeves can transform your security screening from a stressful ordeal into a seamless walkthrough. Knowing what they expect can save you time, hassle, and a potential pat-down.