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  • Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #713

Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #713

Hello, Honolulu! Explore Eno River State Park, Discover Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine

Question: Which country has the highest population density?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

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Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine

Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine is one of the local food places nominated by Cary Spotlight’s readers for our Discover Cary project. If you had a chance to sample their food, feel free to share your opinion below.

Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine in Cary, NC, serves authentic Uzbek dishes including their signature plov (rice pilaf), handmade manti dumplings, lagman noodles, and grilled kebabs, all prepared with fresh halal ingredients in a warm, family-owned restaurant setting.

Check out their menu on their website: Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine

Address: 4224 NW Cary Pkwy, Cary, NC 27513 | Get Directions

Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine

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Hello, Honolulu!
Gateway to Island Paradise and Ancient Hawaiian Culture

Welcome to Honolulu, where turquoise waves meet volcanic peaks, where ancient Hawaiian traditions blend seamlessly with modern beach culture, and where some of the world's most famous shorelines await your arrival. While there are no direct flights from RDU (Raleigh-Durham) to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), connecting flights through cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, or Dallas make reaching this Pacific paradise straightforward and manageable. Whether you're here for the legendary surf breaks, the rich history of Pearl Harbor, or the chance to hike an extinct volcano at sunrise, Honolulu delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Why Visit Honolulu?

  • Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head: Waikiki is the heart of Honolulu's beach scene, offering golden sand, gentle surf lessons, and stunning views of Diamond Head crater. Just a short hike up this iconic volcanic cone rewards you with panoramic views of the coastline and city below—perfect for sunrise adventurers and sunset photographers alike.

  • Pearl Harbor National Memorial: This historic site honors the lives lost during the 1941 attack that brought America into World War II. Tour the USS Arizona Memorial, explore the Battleship Missouri, and walk through museums that bring this crucial moment in history to life with powerful exhibits and personal stories.

  • Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Located just 30 minutes east of downtown, this protected marine sanctuary is a snorkeler's dream come true. Swim alongside hundreds of tropical fish species in crystal-clear waters, spot sea turtles gliding through coral gardens, and enjoy one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii.

Travel Guides – Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip.

Lonely Planet's Honolulu Guide offers detailed neighborhood breakdowns, local restaurant picks, and practical tips for island-hopping adventures beyond Oahu

Go Hawaii's Official Visitors Guide provides insider knowledge on cultural events, hidden beaches, and authentic Hawaiian experiences you won't want to miss.

G Adventures is the leader in small group and solo travel for 30 years, they know how to do it right. Check out the Online Deals: Shop Travel Deals

Explore Eno River State Park

Eno River State Park is a true hidden gem just 30 minutes from Cary. This 4,500-acre park brings you into the wilderness without the long drive—perfect for a quick escape or a full day of adventure. The Eno River winds through hills and forested bluffs, creating a peaceful setting where you can hike over 24 miles of trails, from easy riverside walks to more challenging climbs with rewarding views.

Popular trails like the 1.2-mile Cole Mill Trail and the 3.75-mile Cox Mountain Trail (with its famous swinging bridge!) give you options whether you're with young kids or looking for a workout. The park has five different access points, making it easy to pick the perfect spot. Beyond hiking, you can enjoy swimming holes like Bobbitt Hole, fishing spots along the river, picnic areas with shelters, and even backcountry camping.

Look for wildlife along the way—you might spot white-tailed deer, turtles sunbathing on rocks, or great blue herons fishing in the shallows. Birdwatchers love this park, with over 150 species including belted kingfishers, wood ducks, and red-tailed hawks. Bring your binoculars for the best views, especially in early morning when wildlife is most active.

Good to Know:

Location: 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705 | Directions

Hours: Park gates open daily 8 AM to sunset (hours vary seasonally); Visitor center open 9 AM - 5 PM daily (open until 8 PM Fridays March-October)

Amenities: 24+ miles of hiking trails, five access points, picnic areas and shelters, restrooms, visitor center, backcountry camping, fishing access, paddling launch points

Entry: Free!

Tip: The park has multiple access points—Cole Mill Road is best for families and easy river access, while Few's Ford offers more challenging trails and a suspension bridge. Check trail status online before you go, as some sections may close after heavy rain. Pets are welcome on leash!

How Do You Like to Explore Eno River State Park?

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The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇
Monaco has the highest population density of any country in the world, with over 26,000 people per square kilometer (67,000 per square mile). This tiny principality on the French Riviera covers just 2.1 square kilometers (0.81 square miles), yet is home to more than 39,000 residents. Despite its small size, Monaco is known for its wealth, luxury lifestyle, and events like the Monaco Grand Prix. Its densely packed skyline of high-rise apartments and oceanfront developments reflects the premium placed on space in this glamorous microstate.