Gathering the whole family together for a weekend away is always a special occasion, but this trip to Death Valley National Park was particularly exciting. My wife and I were joined by one of my sons, my daughter and her husband, and their two children, as well as my son-in-law's parents. Last but not least, my mother-in-law completed our group. As a photographer, I was eager to capture the stunning vistas and unique landscapes of Death Valley. But even more than that, I was looking forward to spending quality time with my loved ones and exploring all that this amazing park had to offer.

The Drive to Death Valley National Park:

We started our journey from Sacramento, and the drive to Death Valley was an enjoyable experience. The scenic route provided us with spectacular views of the countryside. The closer we got to Death Valley, the more the landscape changed, and our anticipation grew.

Accommodations at the Oasis at Death Valley:

Our stay at the Oasis at Death Valley was a delightful experience. The "Ranch Cottages" were beautifully appointed and provided us with the comfort to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of exploring. The amenities were top-notch, but we found that the food options on the property were expensive. So, we decided to bring our food the next time we visited and plan accordingly for the higher costs associated with on-site food. Nonetheless, our stay was enjoyable, and we would recommend the Oasis at Death Valley to anyone planning a trip to this area.

Exploring Death Valley National Park:

Death Valley National Park was a fantastic experience. The weather was perfect, and we were amazed by the breathtaking views. As a photographer, I was thrilled to capture some stunning sunset images and how the light fell on the landscape. However, my attempt at astrophotography was less successful, and I realized that I had much to learn in that area.

The Importance of Family Interaction During a Trip:

While we were at the Oasis at Death Valley, I couldn't help but notice that many families with young teenagers spent most of their time on their phones rather than interacting with each other or their surroundings. It's a trend that is all too common these days, and it's a shame because it does children a significant disservice. The opportunity to explore a new environment, learn new things and bond with family members is invaluable. I firmly believe that putting down the phone and engaging with one's surroundings and loved ones is the key to making the most out of a trip. So, I advise fellow travelers to set aside some dedicated phone-free time and engage with their families and environment. You never know what you might discover and what memories you might create.

Ultimately, our trip to Death Valley National Park was an unforgettable experience. From the beautiful drive to the amazing accommodations, we enjoyed every moment there. It was a little disappointing that some family members were more interested in their phones than the stunning surroundings, but we hope that they'll be inspired to put down their devices and fully immerse themselves in the world around them next time. And as for me, I learned that I have a lot of practice to do when it comes to Astrophotography! Next time, I'll make sure to bring more equipment and be better prepared to capture the stunning night sky. Overall, our family trip to Death Valley National Park was a wonderful adventure that we'll always remember.