The 12th century ruins of the citadel in Visegrad inspire a certain degree of awe. The hills of northern Hungary spread out to the north toward Slovakia and west toward Austria. The Danube flows from the west and makes an abrupt turn south toward Budapest at the foot of the citadel. It is not difficult to see why Julius Caesar 2000 years ago chose to build a fortress on this very spot for the security of the province of Pannonia. Through the middle ages countless rulers, conquerors and despots built their own fortifications here to look down over the river that is an artery running through Hungary and indeed much of Europe. The fortress was a symbol of military might and a refuge in times of invasion, which, during Hungary's long and turbulent history, was a frequent occurrence. Today tourists speaking Hungarian, German, French and English fan out examining medieval ruins and gazing at the incredible panorama for a long time. A flag rustles in the wind, its red, white and green flowing magnificently above the countryside. The red star of Soviet occupation has long since been torn from its fabric forever.
I take many pictures; I find it very difficult to take any bad ones. I think to myself that Visegrad is one of many parts of Hungary that the traveler who thinks it only necessary to spend a week in the capital should see. The view is stunning, the air is thick with history and atop a neighboring hill sits a restaurant where they serve wild game and red wine for $10 a plate that one can consume while watching the shadows of clouds race across the green hills. I sit on the long wrap-around terrace of this restaurant drinking coffee while my girlfriend has a conversation in her native tongue with a close friend. The Hungarian language has no close relatives among European tongues. It has none of the guttural hardness of German, or the melody of French and Italian, nor is it nasal, like most Slavic languages. As a Finno-Uraltic language, distant cousin to Finnish and Estonian, it numbers among the 5% minority of European languages that do not have Indo-European roots. This linguistic disparity accounts in part for the fierce pride the Hungarians have in their uniqueness and longevity among European nations.
Hungary sits as an island between the Germanic and Latinate nations of the West and the Slavic nations of the East. Considered an Eastern European nation by outsiders, Hungary is, in fact a catholic country, not orthodox, having received its royal crown with trademark crooked cross from the Pope Sylvester during the 9th century AD. It has been perched between tectonic military, cultural and religious tides that have swept east and west over central Europe for millennia, yet somehow the Hungarians have managed to maintain their identity. Their manners are ever impeccable, declaring Jo napot! (good day) to strangers on the street or bringing wine, flowers and pastry to the houses of guests. Hungarian cuisine retains its age-old pastoral flavor centered on tender chunks of meat with rich sauces and of course paprika.
I think on this uniqueness as I sit and try to make out the few words that I know from the machine gun litany of vowels and consonants that my companions speak with such fluid ease. Nearby sits a group of young Russian tourists. They talk very loudly and smoke many cigarettes while telling stories that are apparently very funny. I wonder if it is difficult for them to feel at home in a country that they used to occupy. If it is, you could never tell from the great time they appear to be having.
Later we are very lucky to catch a fast river boat that will take us back to Budapest. We arrive just before the ferry is to cast off and the ticket vendor is very annoyed as she holds the boat for us and runs back to the ticket office to bring our tickets and the change for the large bill with which we paid. Soon we are sitting in the long squat cabin of the ferry while the banks of the Danube whiz past the window. The boat only holds 30 or so people but there is a bar and everyone is drinking something. Most people, including my companions drink Tokaji, the sweet dessert wine for which Hungary is quite famous. Families on holiday smile broadly and tell stories while looking out the window. The summer sun is beginning to set and it is a glorious day.
In just a half an hour we disembark on the banks of Pest. On the Buda side of the river to the west, the sun is setting over Buda castle, the immense palace built during the time of the Hapsburg occupation. Tourists mill about everywhere on the Duna Corso, choosing from among the many riverfront bistros to have a quiet outdoor dinner or haggling with old women peddling hand-embroidered tablecloths. While this is the Budapest of postcards and family photo albums, the sweeping vista of Gellert Hill, crowned by its statue of liberty, Castle Hill and of course, the Chain Bridge, is still one of great beauty. I have seen this view before and yet I am no less impressed with it. A short walk away in Vorosmarty Square a young gypsy plays Brahm's frenetic Hungarian Dance # 5 with glasses of water and a spoon. A large crowd gathers to listen. My girlfriend, a Hungarian, and therefore a tough sell, enjoys the performance so much that she sends me over to give the man 200 Forint for his effort. The square borders on Vaci street where countless shops sell traditional Hungarian wares: paprika in assorted dispensers of cloth, tin or porcelain, palinka in hand-painted bottles, and, of course, more table cloths embroidered with colorful flowers and red peppers that are the trademark of Hungarian crafts. We walk up and down for awhile, window shopping in a throng of people, where, for the only time during this trip I can hear a lot of English spoken with American accents. Eventually, all shopped-out, we decide to head back to our apartment.
After a week in Budapest I know the metro very well. It is my lucky gift to be able to negotiate the mass transit system of any major city in the world after only a short time. We travel on the yellow transit line, the oldest subway line in Europe, to the district in which we are staying. At every stop there is a distinctive jingle with which we cannot help but hum along. The terminal on the other end of the line is filled with people. These are people that tourists staying in a Holiday Inn might never see. They are workers returning home from their jobs dressed in smart business clothes or the stained rags of the plain laborer. They are the gypsies who inhabit these subterranean depots and sit on crates everyday socializing with one another and smoking cigarettes. They are the vendors who sell all manner of produce from wooden crates. You don't have to ask these vendors for organic food. Here it is all organic and when you bite into a paradiscom (tomato) you can taste the flavor of the black earth in which it was grown. There is a drug store that sells over-the-counter creams, soaps and shampoos with English labels on the front of the bottle and caution labels in Hungarian on the back.
The people leaving the metro walk to the tram stop nearby on Mexico road, or to their cars. While much of the architecture of Budapest is a stately Victorian, the cars that Hungarians drive belie the recent history of affliction and poverty. Trabants and Ladas, the fruits of communist mass production make the American standard of economy car, the Honda Civic or Geo Prism, appear mammoth by comparison. They are slow, smoky automobiles made of plastic or fiber glass. On the outskirts of the city more relics communism can be seen like the endless rows of prefabricated apartment buildings that line many streets like filing cabinets, examples of a utilitarian form of architecture that reminds me more of the housing projects on the upper east side in Manhattan than the elegant capital of a European nation.
Our apartment is on Nagy Lajos Kiraly Street and is located in a modest but fashionable neighborhood to the north of the city center. It is a prewar affair with high ceilings and huge floor-to-ceiling windows. We stay for free courtesy of a friend who lives here but has gone out of town for a few months. This convenience makes what is an already rather inexpensive trip even cheaper. Since the country joined the EU in 2004 prices are on the rise but aside from shopping and tourist conveniences, day to day living is still extremely affordable. My girlfriend, who grew up in Pest, always does the haggling however. If they hear one word of my New Jersey accent the price of anything we buy is liable to double without warning.
Near our apartment is the city park, a shady expanse with a zoo and amusement park. In the park also lies the Szechenyi thermal baths, a 19th century pleasure palace filled with Renaissance style halls in which one can bathe in the scalding waters that rise up from the many geothermal fissures beneath the city. In the large pools young European tourists with dread locks and facials piercings soak beside obese old Hungarian men who play chess on poolside tables. On the far side of the park through the impressive expanse of Hero's Square lies Andrassy Road, a tree lined boulevard stretching into the heart of the city that rivals the Champs Elysees in cosmopolitan flair. Stop at building 60 on this road and you will find a most unusual museum. This severe grey Victorian mansion was once the headquarters of the fascist Arrow Cross party, from which, at the behest of Hitler, members sought out party enemies for torture and murder. After the Soviet liberation, the KGB chose the very same building for the very same purpose. Its cellars were turned into a soundproofed prison for torture and execution while passersby on the street above had no clue as to what was going on inside. Today 60 Andrassy road exists as the Terror House, a monument and exhibit chronicling the horrors of Hungary's past, from World War I through the end of Soviet Occupation. The Terror House and its grim secrets form a stark contrast to the otherwise regal aspect of the Hungarian capital. This contrast is what makes Hungary not just a place worth visiting but an essential experience for anyone who wants to really know Europe.
This is my second trip to Hungary. I do come here for views of the Danube, Buda Castle, Hero's Square or the fantastical spires of the parliament building. But I also come here to see the relics of the iron curtain, the Ottoman occupation, the Roman ruins and the leftovers of other historical eras that have touched Hungary, eras that once only existed for me in books. I come to see a fertile land from which some of my ancestors came. I am drawn to the complexity of this nation. Such elegance is so often juxtaposed with squalor and it fascinates me. I come to wander through the chaos of the yearly Sziget Music Festival, a labyrinth of music, food, games, young people and really cool t-shirts that in everyway mirrors an American Phish show. I also come to sit down at the dinner table in a Hungarian home with friends and family and enjoy home cooking, warm hospitality and great conversation with a people who are thoughtful, proud and witty. Hungary is not under glass; it is no museum piece. It has flavors and sounds and smells and they are not always pleasant, but they are most certainly real. I come to Hungary mainly for this reality, a culture that you can touch and one that will touch you back.
-Rich Carriero
Friday, September 29, 2006
Traveling across Cuba (By 4Ernesto)
Winter 2003; our wedding took place in December the same year. We were thinking of traveling to Europe but then Cuba suddenly popped up. It was a destination we both wanted to go and at that moment it seemed perfect since we had enough money to spend and no children to leave behind.
We went to several travel agencies but what we had on hand at the time was disappointing. They all offered three or four days at Havana and ten to twelve days at Varadero (a tourist beach resort). Besides that, the price we had to pay was huge. What we really wanted was to visit the whole island, which is quite big since you need two hours by plain to go from Havana to Santiago de Cuba. Another negative aspect was that we had to pay “all inclusive” for our stay in Varadero, and take extra journey trips from there which meant that we would pay a full day for a stay in Varadero but we would not be there. So, we decided to examine other options.
We bought a Cuba travelers’ guide from a bookshop and we started reading it. It seemed quite good because we could find anything we could ask for; hotels, maps, restaurants, advice on how to travel on the island, and other websites where we could find more information. It even had information about the culture, the food and the weather. Having in mind that we wanted to visit the whole country we designed a trip according to our taste. We visited the given websites and we communicated with Cuban agencies asking them prices for what we were looking for. They were very quick in responding to us with hotel names, prices and every little detail we asked them for. After checking all possibilities we decided to buy the air tickets from the travel agency in our country and the rest through the internet. By doing that we managed to organize a trip as we liked it and save almost 1/3 of the amount we should have paid if we booked everything from an agency.
The day of departure came. Our connecting flight was from Frankfurt. The trip was quite long and a bit tiring as it took us almost 14 hours to arrive in Havana. The minute we stepped food on the ground I felt quite strange. Funny thoughts came in my mind. I turned to my husband telling him “What happens if nobody shows up to pick us from hear?”, and we started laughing but before we commented further on that, we saw a lady coming towards us asking our names. She was sent by the travel agency to give us the first instructions and take us to the car that would drive us to the hotel in Havana.
It was an old 4 star hotel in the middle of the city called Raquel Hotel. The architecture was excellent, and the employees working there were very friendly. We had a small trouble with hot water since the boiler was broken, but fortunately it was fixed the next day of our arrival. The cuisine was fine, we had the chance to taste a delicious soup made of beat-root. Opposite that hotel there was a primary school. The children looked so beautiful in there school uniform, they reminded us of our life in school, laughing and playing all the time.
We stayed in Havana for three nights. We visited a lot of museums but unfortunately not all. The one that really impressed us was the “Museum of Revolution”. All the history of the Cuban revolution against Batista’s regime was there. We were informed, impressed, surprised, and above all happy because we had the chance to see how people really fight for there freedom…
Viniales is a destination that everybody must go when visiting Cuba. There, we were able to visit cigar plantations and buy original Cuban cigars in low prices. We visited also the cigar factory and we saw how they make them. There we found out that the different brand names given to them are not because of the maker but because of the different varieties of tobacco plants. During that trip we had the chance to visit the whole area of Viniales and buy some beautiful wooden figures and some others made of banana leaves. A factory making rum was another place we went. Men were very pleased they had the chance to buy fine rum. But the most exciting of all was Tropicana Cabaret, with an excellent music, excellent show and excellent service!!!
The next destination was Santiago de Cuba, the second biggest city in Cuba. The hotel was new and its location was outside the town. The view of the city at night was wonderful from the hotel, with all those lights shining like stars. There, we had the chance to make a tour of the city and visit La Grande Piedra. From there you could see the whole Santiago territory and the mountains of Sierra Maestra where the first revolution groups started the guerilla warfare. The hotel service was excellent. The dining room was large with everything you could ask for. Food, drinks and sweets were delicious!!
We visited Baracoa as well, a small town eight hours away from Santiago de Cuba, the 1st settlement that Christopher Columbus build on Cuba. The people there were very friendly, and we had the chance to dine in a small house that was renovated and converted to a restaurant. There was an exotic coast, scenery that can only been seen in movies.
Just visit it!!!
We went to several travel agencies but what we had on hand at the time was disappointing. They all offered three or four days at Havana and ten to twelve days at Varadero (a tourist beach resort). Besides that, the price we had to pay was huge. What we really wanted was to visit the whole island, which is quite big since you need two hours by plain to go from Havana to Santiago de Cuba. Another negative aspect was that we had to pay “all inclusive” for our stay in Varadero, and take extra journey trips from there which meant that we would pay a full day for a stay in Varadero but we would not be there. So, we decided to examine other options.
We bought a Cuba travelers’ guide from a bookshop and we started reading it. It seemed quite good because we could find anything we could ask for; hotels, maps, restaurants, advice on how to travel on the island, and other websites where we could find more information. It even had information about the culture, the food and the weather. Having in mind that we wanted to visit the whole country we designed a trip according to our taste. We visited the given websites and we communicated with Cuban agencies asking them prices for what we were looking for. They were very quick in responding to us with hotel names, prices and every little detail we asked them for. After checking all possibilities we decided to buy the air tickets from the travel agency in our country and the rest through the internet. By doing that we managed to organize a trip as we liked it and save almost 1/3 of the amount we should have paid if we booked everything from an agency.
The day of departure came. Our connecting flight was from Frankfurt. The trip was quite long and a bit tiring as it took us almost 14 hours to arrive in Havana. The minute we stepped food on the ground I felt quite strange. Funny thoughts came in my mind. I turned to my husband telling him “What happens if nobody shows up to pick us from hear?”, and we started laughing but before we commented further on that, we saw a lady coming towards us asking our names. She was sent by the travel agency to give us the first instructions and take us to the car that would drive us to the hotel in Havana.
It was an old 4 star hotel in the middle of the city called Raquel Hotel. The architecture was excellent, and the employees working there were very friendly. We had a small trouble with hot water since the boiler was broken, but fortunately it was fixed the next day of our arrival. The cuisine was fine, we had the chance to taste a delicious soup made of beat-root. Opposite that hotel there was a primary school. The children looked so beautiful in there school uniform, they reminded us of our life in school, laughing and playing all the time.
We stayed in Havana for three nights. We visited a lot of museums but unfortunately not all. The one that really impressed us was the “Museum of Revolution”. All the history of the Cuban revolution against Batista’s regime was there. We were informed, impressed, surprised, and above all happy because we had the chance to see how people really fight for there freedom…
Viniales is a destination that everybody must go when visiting Cuba. There, we were able to visit cigar plantations and buy original Cuban cigars in low prices. We visited also the cigar factory and we saw how they make them. There we found out that the different brand names given to them are not because of the maker but because of the different varieties of tobacco plants. During that trip we had the chance to visit the whole area of Viniales and buy some beautiful wooden figures and some others made of banana leaves. A factory making rum was another place we went. Men were very pleased they had the chance to buy fine rum. But the most exciting of all was Tropicana Cabaret, with an excellent music, excellent show and excellent service!!!
The next destination was Santiago de Cuba, the second biggest city in Cuba. The hotel was new and its location was outside the town. The view of the city at night was wonderful from the hotel, with all those lights shining like stars. There, we had the chance to make a tour of the city and visit La Grande Piedra. From there you could see the whole Santiago territory and the mountains of Sierra Maestra where the first revolution groups started the guerilla warfare. The hotel service was excellent. The dining room was large with everything you could ask for. Food, drinks and sweets were delicious!!
We visited Baracoa as well, a small town eight hours away from Santiago de Cuba, the 1st settlement that Christopher Columbus build on Cuba. The people there were very friendly, and we had the chance to dine in a small house that was renovated and converted to a restaurant. There was an exotic coast, scenery that can only been seen in movies.
Just visit it!!!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Fall Family Time in Western Kentucky
By Misti Sandefur
It's almost time friends... the decorations are coming out of storage as everyone is preparing for Christmas. Personally, Christmas is my favorite holiday, because it's a time when we celebrate the birth of our savor, Jesus Christ. Christmas is also a time for families to gather and feast on turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, pumpkin pies, and much more. Mmmm... my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
There's more to Christmas than gifts, decorations, untangling lights and family gatherings, it's also a time for you to have some blissful "family time." Pull your children and your hubby away from the video games and tell them it's "family time." Drag out the Christmas lights, make sure they work, and begin decorating your home for Christmas. As time ticks by, you might find yourself in the holiday spirit, so pop a Christmas CD into the stereo and sing along as you decorate.
Another activity you can enjoy with your family is crafts. How about sitting down together and making a beautiful Christmas wreath to add to your decor. Here's how you and your family can create that beautiful Christmas Wreath...
What you need:
One wire coat hanger
Several boxes of small sandwich bags (not the ziplock kind)
Scissors
Big red bow or red ribbon
Super glue
Directions:
1. Without taking apart or disturbing the hook (you'll need that to hang the project later), simply mold the triangular area of a wire coat hanger into a circle. Parents should probably do this so the younger children don't get any ideas or hurt themselves.
2. Cut down the sides of each sandwich bag so it turns into one long, wide strip (similar to a cheese slice after it has been opened). For the younger kids that can't use scissors, they can help by tearing down the sides of the sandwich bags if they're careful.
3. Tie each bag into any kind of knot onto the circular area of the hanger. Be sure to pull the knot tight, and have the ends on separate sides of the hanger. Also, make sure you keep the baggies close together -- push them together to fill in gaps as needed. You will need a ton of baggies (close to 200). The cheapest ones you can find are fine and still look just as nice.
4. Super glue one red bow at the top (centered). If you're really creative, you can use ribbon to make your own red bow for the top. Parents should super glue the bow so the younger children don't super glue themselves.
Once the project is completed, you will have a very cute Christmas reef that's ready to hang on any nail or doorknob. It will last for years!
When you're tired of being indoors, take the family outdoors and enjoy some of the festivities around the Western Kentucky area.
Have you ever worked through a maze on paper? Were you good at finding your way to the finish line? Opening September 16, test your maze skills off paper at the Corn Crop Human Maze event held every Saturday night... and Halloween night (5:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.).
At the Corn Crop Human Maze (beside Murray State University), you can attempt to find your way through six acres of 10 feet tall corn stalks that twists and turns for two miles. The occasion also includes activities, drawings and giveaways. For more information call 270-887-4290.
Beginning on September 29 Owensboro will celebrate fall with their fifth annual Pumpkin Fest. The town has loads of fun planned. There will be games for the children, a carnival, raffles, a motorcycle show, musical entertainment, pumpkin relay races, a challenge for scrapbookers and so much more. To find out more visit their Web site (http://www.owensboropumpkinfest.org).
The small community of Hazel, Kentucky will host its 17th Annual Hazel Day Celebration. The Hazel Day Celebration (http://www.hazelky.com/hazeldayrelease.htm) is held to commemorate their past and present. While there, you can view old photographs and memorabilia. Furthermore, there will be free horse and buggy rides, an open car show, an old-fashioned cakewalk, a washer pitching tournament, musical entertainment, pumpkin and face painting, train rides for the kids, a dunking booth, parade, quilt auction, antique tractor display, sorghum milling and a whole lot more!
The Aurora Country Festival takes places on the Kentucky Lake in Aurora. The festival starts on Friday, October 6 and ends on Sunday, October 8. Your family can enjoy sorghum squeezing, cooking, a talent contest, vendors, a parade (Saturday), a game of Bingo, free entertainment, country music, juried crafts, demonstrators and more. To find out more about this annual festival call 270-703-6060.
Gather the family for some good old-fashioned fun at Campfire Tales. Campfire Tales is held at the Nature Station in Western Kentucky. You and your family will gather around a fire to roast marshmallows and hear stories told by Letitia Usher. The hosts ask that you bring along a flashlight and blankets or lawn chairs so you'll be comfortable. Moreover, there's also a fee of $3/$4.50 per person. To make reservations call 270-924-2020.
For many years, Trigg County has been known for their country hams, and on Oct. 20 -22, 1977 they decided to hold their first annual Trigg County Country Ham Festival. Because the festival was successful, and has grown over the years, Trigg County continues to hold this annual event.
This year's Trigg County Country Ham Festival will commence October 13 and come to an end on October 15. You can enjoy a petting zoo, vendors, food, rides and much more. Oh yes, we can't forget the delicious ham. Therefore, before you leave be sure to sample the ham that the county is well-known for. For more information about the festival -- including the festival's history -- visit their Web site (http://www.hamfestival.com/).
On October 21 is the Little Spooky Spooks festival at Kenlake State Resort. Dress in your spookiest costume and head for Kenlake State Resort for some frightening family fun. There will be spooky animals, a storyteller spinning scary tales, candy and refreshments. In addition to all this, your family can also create a unique craft. Everyone is welcome!
Also on October 22 is the Haunted Hallway Trail at Kenlake. If you and your family are up for a scare, you may want to inquire about this event while at the Little Spooky Spooks festival. For additional information call 800-325-0143, or e-mail Kenlake@ky.gov.
What does fall bring to mind? Hayrides, of course! At the Nature Station in the Land Between the Lakes, you and your family can experience an old-fashioned fall hayride through the woods. Led by staff, the fall hayride will include activities, games and nature-viewing opportunities for all ages! The hayride takes place on November 11 (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
Dress your family for the weather and head to the Nature Station. $2 per person; register at the front desk on that day. Trips will depart throughout the day.
On Halloween night, some churches in the Paducah area will be hosting safe events for families with children. Lone Oak First Baptist Church has a Family Fun Festival. Lone Oak will feature several inflatable games including "Adrenaline Rush," "Titanic Giant Slide" and "Moon Walk." There will also be a basketball shoot, football throw, "Mouse House" putt-putt golf, Duck Pond, Grab-a-Pumpkin, Hit Me in the Kisser, Face Painting, Pit of Doom, Ring Toss and etc. Candy, balloons, popcorn and soft drinks are all free. As usual, they will also have a "Trunk or Treat" with hot-rod cars, antique cars and decorated vehicles.
At Lone Oak Church of Christ there is a Community Trunk of Treats with over 200 car trunks for trick-or-treating. (Lone Oak will be getting a lot of candy.)
Halloween Safe Night for Kids at Mt. Zion Baptist Church features a "Flashlight" Trick-or-Treat. For those of you nearer to Mayfield, check out the Trace Creek Baptist Church in Mayfield. They will be hosting Fun Night and will be offering games with prizes, a dunking booth, hayride, puppet show and more. This is designed for children through the sixth grade, but games and activities will also be provided for the very young. Each child attending will receive plenty of candy! Costumes are welcome, but as this is for younger children, please don't dress as ghosts, goblins, witches or other scary costumes.
Get into the Christmas spirit at the Pennyrile Polar Express & Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting (free) event on December 9 -- 4:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. 15 minutes before the event ends the tree lighting will take place at the Founder's Square in Hopkinsville. For more than one hour, you and your family can enjoy stories, carriage rides, crafts, miniature trains and a whole lot more.
Location: E. Ninth Street between the L&N Depot and Founder's Square.
Mark your calendars for Christmas in the Park at Kenlake State Resort Park! Area homemaker groups will be decorating Christmas trees in the upper lobbies, Santa will pay a visit to the kids, and there will be crafts, pictures, cookies and punch. Call 270-474-2211 to find out more.
Date: Dec. 10, 2006.
At last, does your family get a feeling of excitement when they think about haunted houses? Then you should definitely mark your calendars for a couple of the haunted house adventures in the Western Kentucky area!
Scream Fest 2006 will be on October 6 - 8, 13 - 15, 20 - 22 and 27 - 31. The location is in Paducah at Talon Falls Haunted Screampark, and as the name implies, it is sure to leave you screaming! If you survive the Screampark and think you can handle more, try the Dead End Haunted House located on I-24, exit 7, west of highway 62, six miles on left. Watch for the skull sign! To visit both the Screampark and the Dead End Haunted House the ticket price will be $20, but bring a Pepsi can or flyer and you get a discount. Portions of the proceeds go to benefit the West Kentucky Crime Stoppers, Child Watch, and West Kentucky Community and Technical College Scholarship fund. This years theme: "Crypt of the Vampire" -- home of the un-dead.
For show times, pictures and other information visit the Scream Fest Web site (http://www.talonfalls.com).
Looking for a more original haunt with Ogres, Goblins and Killer Clowns? On Friday and Saturday nights starting in October, Oller's Oddities Circus of Monsters, located at the old Gold's Gym building near Kentucky Oaks in Paducah will give you that haunting amusement. Proceeds go to benefit Western Kentucky Easter Seals.
That brings to an end the fall fun that awaits you in the Western Kentucky area. Monday I will cover the Indiana area.
If there's an area you would like me to cover -- an area I've not done yet -- let me know the area by posting your comment and I'll cover it for you. If you'd rather not mention an area or events in the comment area, then you can send your request or event information to me via fax. My toll-free fax number is 866-653-9818. Be safe and enjoy the time with your family!
It's almost time friends... the decorations are coming out of storage as everyone is preparing for Christmas. Personally, Christmas is my favorite holiday, because it's a time when we celebrate the birth of our savor, Jesus Christ. Christmas is also a time for families to gather and feast on turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, pumpkin pies, and much more. Mmmm... my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
There's more to Christmas than gifts, decorations, untangling lights and family gatherings, it's also a time for you to have some blissful "family time." Pull your children and your hubby away from the video games and tell them it's "family time." Drag out the Christmas lights, make sure they work, and begin decorating your home for Christmas. As time ticks by, you might find yourself in the holiday spirit, so pop a Christmas CD into the stereo and sing along as you decorate.
Another activity you can enjoy with your family is crafts. How about sitting down together and making a beautiful Christmas wreath to add to your decor. Here's how you and your family can create that beautiful Christmas Wreath...
What you need:
One wire coat hanger
Several boxes of small sandwich bags (not the ziplock kind)
Scissors
Big red bow or red ribbon
Super glue
Directions:
1. Without taking apart or disturbing the hook (you'll need that to hang the project later), simply mold the triangular area of a wire coat hanger into a circle. Parents should probably do this so the younger children don't get any ideas or hurt themselves.
2. Cut down the sides of each sandwich bag so it turns into one long, wide strip (similar to a cheese slice after it has been opened). For the younger kids that can't use scissors, they can help by tearing down the sides of the sandwich bags if they're careful.
3. Tie each bag into any kind of knot onto the circular area of the hanger. Be sure to pull the knot tight, and have the ends on separate sides of the hanger. Also, make sure you keep the baggies close together -- push them together to fill in gaps as needed. You will need a ton of baggies (close to 200). The cheapest ones you can find are fine and still look just as nice.
4. Super glue one red bow at the top (centered). If you're really creative, you can use ribbon to make your own red bow for the top. Parents should super glue the bow so the younger children don't super glue themselves.
Once the project is completed, you will have a very cute Christmas reef that's ready to hang on any nail or doorknob. It will last for years!
When you're tired of being indoors, take the family outdoors and enjoy some of the festivities around the Western Kentucky area.
Have you ever worked through a maze on paper? Were you good at finding your way to the finish line? Opening September 16, test your maze skills off paper at the Corn Crop Human Maze event held every Saturday night... and Halloween night (5:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.).
At the Corn Crop Human Maze (beside Murray State University), you can attempt to find your way through six acres of 10 feet tall corn stalks that twists and turns for two miles. The occasion also includes activities, drawings and giveaways. For more information call 270-887-4290.
Beginning on September 29 Owensboro will celebrate fall with their fifth annual Pumpkin Fest. The town has loads of fun planned. There will be games for the children, a carnival, raffles, a motorcycle show, musical entertainment, pumpkin relay races, a challenge for scrapbookers and so much more. To find out more visit their Web site (http://www.owensboropumpkinfest.org).
The small community of Hazel, Kentucky will host its 17th Annual Hazel Day Celebration. The Hazel Day Celebration (http://www.hazelky.com/hazeldayrelease.htm) is held to commemorate their past and present. While there, you can view old photographs and memorabilia. Furthermore, there will be free horse and buggy rides, an open car show, an old-fashioned cakewalk, a washer pitching tournament, musical entertainment, pumpkin and face painting, train rides for the kids, a dunking booth, parade, quilt auction, antique tractor display, sorghum milling and a whole lot more!
The Aurora Country Festival takes places on the Kentucky Lake in Aurora. The festival starts on Friday, October 6 and ends on Sunday, October 8. Your family can enjoy sorghum squeezing, cooking, a talent contest, vendors, a parade (Saturday), a game of Bingo, free entertainment, country music, juried crafts, demonstrators and more. To find out more about this annual festival call 270-703-6060.
Gather the family for some good old-fashioned fun at Campfire Tales. Campfire Tales is held at the Nature Station in Western Kentucky. You and your family will gather around a fire to roast marshmallows and hear stories told by Letitia Usher. The hosts ask that you bring along a flashlight and blankets or lawn chairs so you'll be comfortable. Moreover, there's also a fee of $3/$4.50 per person. To make reservations call 270-924-2020.
For many years, Trigg County has been known for their country hams, and on Oct. 20 -22, 1977 they decided to hold their first annual Trigg County Country Ham Festival. Because the festival was successful, and has grown over the years, Trigg County continues to hold this annual event.
This year's Trigg County Country Ham Festival will commence October 13 and come to an end on October 15. You can enjoy a petting zoo, vendors, food, rides and much more. Oh yes, we can't forget the delicious ham. Therefore, before you leave be sure to sample the ham that the county is well-known for. For more information about the festival -- including the festival's history -- visit their Web site (http://www.hamfestival.com/).
On October 21 is the Little Spooky Spooks festival at Kenlake State Resort. Dress in your spookiest costume and head for Kenlake State Resort for some frightening family fun. There will be spooky animals, a storyteller spinning scary tales, candy and refreshments. In addition to all this, your family can also create a unique craft. Everyone is welcome!
Also on October 22 is the Haunted Hallway Trail at Kenlake. If you and your family are up for a scare, you may want to inquire about this event while at the Little Spooky Spooks festival. For additional information call 800-325-0143, or e-mail Kenlake@ky.gov.
What does fall bring to mind? Hayrides, of course! At the Nature Station in the Land Between the Lakes, you and your family can experience an old-fashioned fall hayride through the woods. Led by staff, the fall hayride will include activities, games and nature-viewing opportunities for all ages! The hayride takes place on November 11 (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
Dress your family for the weather and head to the Nature Station. $2 per person; register at the front desk on that day. Trips will depart throughout the day.
On Halloween night, some churches in the Paducah area will be hosting safe events for families with children. Lone Oak First Baptist Church has a Family Fun Festival. Lone Oak will feature several inflatable games including "Adrenaline Rush," "Titanic Giant Slide" and "Moon Walk." There will also be a basketball shoot, football throw, "Mouse House" putt-putt golf, Duck Pond, Grab-a-Pumpkin, Hit Me in the Kisser, Face Painting, Pit of Doom, Ring Toss and etc. Candy, balloons, popcorn and soft drinks are all free. As usual, they will also have a "Trunk or Treat" with hot-rod cars, antique cars and decorated vehicles.
At Lone Oak Church of Christ there is a Community Trunk of Treats with over 200 car trunks for trick-or-treating. (Lone Oak will be getting a lot of candy.)
Halloween Safe Night for Kids at Mt. Zion Baptist Church features a "Flashlight" Trick-or-Treat. For those of you nearer to Mayfield, check out the Trace Creek Baptist Church in Mayfield. They will be hosting Fun Night and will be offering games with prizes, a dunking booth, hayride, puppet show and more. This is designed for children through the sixth grade, but games and activities will also be provided for the very young. Each child attending will receive plenty of candy! Costumes are welcome, but as this is for younger children, please don't dress as ghosts, goblins, witches or other scary costumes.
Get into the Christmas spirit at the Pennyrile Polar Express & Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting (free) event on December 9 -- 4:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. 15 minutes before the event ends the tree lighting will take place at the Founder's Square in Hopkinsville. For more than one hour, you and your family can enjoy stories, carriage rides, crafts, miniature trains and a whole lot more.
Location: E. Ninth Street between the L&N Depot and Founder's Square.
Mark your calendars for Christmas in the Park at Kenlake State Resort Park! Area homemaker groups will be decorating Christmas trees in the upper lobbies, Santa will pay a visit to the kids, and there will be crafts, pictures, cookies and punch. Call 270-474-2211 to find out more.
Date: Dec. 10, 2006.
At last, does your family get a feeling of excitement when they think about haunted houses? Then you should definitely mark your calendars for a couple of the haunted house adventures in the Western Kentucky area!
Scream Fest 2006 will be on October 6 - 8, 13 - 15, 20 - 22 and 27 - 31. The location is in Paducah at Talon Falls Haunted Screampark, and as the name implies, it is sure to leave you screaming! If you survive the Screampark and think you can handle more, try the Dead End Haunted House located on I-24, exit 7, west of highway 62, six miles on left. Watch for the skull sign! To visit both the Screampark and the Dead End Haunted House the ticket price will be $20, but bring a Pepsi can or flyer and you get a discount. Portions of the proceeds go to benefit the West Kentucky Crime Stoppers, Child Watch, and West Kentucky Community and Technical College Scholarship fund. This years theme: "Crypt of the Vampire" -- home of the un-dead.
For show times, pictures and other information visit the Scream Fest Web site (http://www.talonfalls.com).
Looking for a more original haunt with Ogres, Goblins and Killer Clowns? On Friday and Saturday nights starting in October, Oller's Oddities Circus of Monsters, located at the old Gold's Gym building near Kentucky Oaks in Paducah will give you that haunting amusement. Proceeds go to benefit Western Kentucky Easter Seals.
That brings to an end the fall fun that awaits you in the Western Kentucky area. Monday I will cover the Indiana area.
If there's an area you would like me to cover -- an area I've not done yet -- let me know the area by posting your comment and I'll cover it for you. If you'd rather not mention an area or events in the comment area, then you can send your request or event information to me via fax. My toll-free fax number is 866-653-9818. Be safe and enjoy the time with your family!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Fall Family Time in Southern Illinois
By Misti Sandefur
Do you find yourself spending less time with the ones you love? Take a break and enjoy the company of your family, because you never know what tomorrow might bring.
By now you may be saying, "You're right, we should have more 'family time', but how? Where do we go, what can we do?" I'll answer that question for you, and from time-to-time I'll be your guide to events around the United States. In addition, I may also mention activities for indoor & outdoor fun, craft ideas, and anything else that I think will bring fun for your whole family.
I'll start the first "family time" article off with the fall events around the Southern Illinois area. Furthermore, this first article will list some fun activities you can enjoy with your family too. Let the fun and festivities begin!
Red, yellow and gold. The fall colors here in Southern Illinois have begun, and they can be as spectacular as any in the country are. With your family, get pleasure from the beauty nature brings our way. Together, take a walk in the woods and talk about all the colors around you. Pick up some leaves along the way, bring them home with you, and place them in a scrapbook or family album to cherish the memory you have just made together.
Scavenger hunts make for great indoor and outdoor fun; search fests for the entire family. Have everyone write down some items that can be found outside (or inside if the weather is bad). Put the name of each item into a hat. Shake the hat, and afterwards have everyone draw a piece of paper out of the hat. Make sure there is an even number in the hat so everyone has the same amount. For example, if there are four players, there should be twenty pieces of paper in the hat, thus leaving each player with five pieces of paper.
Once the hat is empty, give everyone a watch, set a time to meet back at the spot you're standing in, and have everyone search for the items written on their paper. Be sure they keep an eye on the time, because once the time is up, they must return to the meeting spot with the items they found. It will be a race to see who can collect the most items before time runs out.
The winner will be the person who found the most items. If more than one has the same number of items, break the tie by having someone name another item, and at that moment have those who tied go find the item. Whoever finds the item and returns to the meeting spot first will be the winner.
For many, fall is also a time to enjoy the festivals and events around the area. I've scoured the Internet, local papers and flyers of Southern Illinois and compiled a list of all the fun you can have on this vibrant fall season. If I missed something, it's not because I didn't look!
Do you and your family enjoy arcade games? Mark your calendars for the second annual Pinball and Arcade Supershow starting on September 29 (3:00 p.m.) and ending on September 30 (starts at 11:00 a.m.). With an entry fee of only $10, you can play all the pinball and/or video arcade machines you want. In addition, if you're really good at pinball you can participate in the pinball tournament.
The Pinball and Arcade Supershow takes place at the Herrin Civic Center. For more information phone 618-751-8458.
Carnival rides and games, hickory-smoked barbeque, a pet parade, games for the kids, karoke, food of all kinds, vendors, a motorcycle show and rides on the Shawnee Queen River Taxi are just a few of the many activities your family can enjoy at the annual Hardin County Fluorspar Festival!
The annual Fluorspar Festival is held on the first weekend in October every year. Just drive into Rosiclare Illinois and the festival is all up and down Main Street. I can assure you there's something for every member of your family to enjoy, and every year a parade brings the event to an end.
Grab the family and enjoy three days of Johnson County's Fall Festival! If you or a member of your family can sing well, you have to enter the karaoke contest. In addition to the karaoke contest, there will also be a parade, Mr. and Miss Pageant, carnival rides and much more.
The festival will be held in the Vienna City Park, and it begins on October 6 and ends October 8. For more information phone 618-658-2063.
If you love chili, wrestling, haunted hayrides, pancakes, cake walks, live bands, flea markets, petting zoos and exhibits, you should make a drive to Carrier Mills beginning October 6 for their Catskins Day celebration. The fun and entertainment will last for three days, and believe me when I say, "you'll have a BLAST!"
To obtain more information and a schedule of each day's events, pick up the phone and call 618-658-2063. You won't want to miss this event!
On Saturday, October 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., your family can take part in Anna's Leaf, Bark and Seed Hikes. On this hike, you and your family will discover the reason leaves change color, and you'll also learn how to identify trees as the leaves on them disappear. The hike through nature will take place at the Giant City State Park. This one can be educational for the children.
For more information, call 618-457-4836. One other thing, if you can't make it on October 7 another hike will take place on October 14 -- same time, same place.
Gather up the family on November 11 and head to Anna to honor our veterans. At 2:00 p.m. Anna will host their Veteran's Day Parade. The parade will start from the city park entrance on Davie Street, and from there it will follow through Main Street to Jefferson Street, and back to the park. For more information, call 618-833-5182. Don’t forget to grab sacks for the kids; they'll need them to catch any candy thrown toward them during the parade.
Also on Saturday, November 11, round up the gang and get an early start on your Christmas shopping! You and the family will enjoy shopping, as the Merchants' Christmas Open House gets underway. There will be Christmas music and decorations, baked goodies for everyone, and a whole lot of shopping in the stores of downtown Golconda.
Since the Merchants' Christmas Open House lasts all day, you can enjoy the Veteran's Day celebration in Anna and then head to Golconda after the parade.
Beginning Thursday, November 16, loads of fun will be waiting for you under the big tent! No, it's not the circus, it's much better! Yes, that's right, Golconda's annual Deer Festival; I can smell the barbeque and funnel cakes already!
All the fun and celebrations will begin with a community service on the evening (7:00 p.m.) of November 16. The community service brings gospel music sung by the community's choir.
On the second day, November 17, beginning at 6:30 p.m., you can enjoy the Baby Photo contest followed by the Little Mister and Miss Pope County Deer Festival Pageant. After the Little Mister and Miss Pageant, the Junior Mister and Miss Pageant will begin.
If you don't get your fill of pageants on November 17, return to the big tent on the 18th (7:00 p.m.) to see which young woman from Pope County High School is crowned Deer Queen.
Ending the festival will be the annual Deer Festival Street Parade. The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m., and afterward you can buy a pound or two of the best barbaque in town! Yum, yum, I'm hungry just thinking about it.
Honest, you just can't pass through Main Street in Golconda without stopping-in at the Annual Deer Festival. Lots of fun for the whole family! Load up, head for the "big tent," and enjoy barbeque, funnel cakes, corn dogs, entertainment, pageants, and a whole lot more!
Get into the holiday spirit and take the young 'ins to see Santa Clause and get candy on December 2. On this date, Metropolis will host their Christmas Parade. The parade will feature floats, bands, and yes, Santa Clause too.
If you would like to find out more about the Christmas Parade in Metropolis, phone 1-800-949-5740, or send an e-mail to deneal@verizon.net.
From 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on December 9 Golconda will start their annual Christmas House Tour. Participants will depart from the museum for a candlelight walk and Christmas caroling to the courtyard. At the courtyard, everyone will enjoy hot chocolate to warm their bones, cookies to satisfy their need for sweets, and a visit from good ole' Saint Nick. There will also be a bonfire to keep you warm. Call 618-683-9702 if you'd like additional information.
Would you and your family like to discover how the plants and animals living in the Shawnee National Forest adapt to the winter atmosphere? If, on December 9, you pay a visit to the Giant City State Park Visitor Center in Anna you will discover the facts as you take part in the Wonders of Winter Walk. The walk will take place at 1:00 p.m., and will last until 2:30 p.m.
Not only will you find out how the plants and animals adjust to the winter atmosphere, but you and your crew will also enjoy the scenic views of the Shawnee National Forest. Dress warm and have fun!
That concludes the fall festivities in the Southern Illinois area. Tomorrow I'll have even more fall fun you and your family can enjoy, and the events listed then will be in Western Kentucky.
If there's an area you would like me to cover -- an area I've not done yet -- let me know the area by posting your comment and I'll cover it for you. If you'd rather not mention an area or event in the comment area, then you can send your request or event information to me via fax. My toll-free fax number is 866-653-9818.
Don't forget, mark your calendars, and make your plans for the entire family. Until tomorrow, may God bless you and yours!
Do you find yourself spending less time with the ones you love? Take a break and enjoy the company of your family, because you never know what tomorrow might bring.
By now you may be saying, "You're right, we should have more 'family time', but how? Where do we go, what can we do?" I'll answer that question for you, and from time-to-time I'll be your guide to events around the United States. In addition, I may also mention activities for indoor & outdoor fun, craft ideas, and anything else that I think will bring fun for your whole family.
I'll start the first "family time" article off with the fall events around the Southern Illinois area. Furthermore, this first article will list some fun activities you can enjoy with your family too. Let the fun and festivities begin!
Red, yellow and gold. The fall colors here in Southern Illinois have begun, and they can be as spectacular as any in the country are. With your family, get pleasure from the beauty nature brings our way. Together, take a walk in the woods and talk about all the colors around you. Pick up some leaves along the way, bring them home with you, and place them in a scrapbook or family album to cherish the memory you have just made together.
Scavenger hunts make for great indoor and outdoor fun; search fests for the entire family. Have everyone write down some items that can be found outside (or inside if the weather is bad). Put the name of each item into a hat. Shake the hat, and afterwards have everyone draw a piece of paper out of the hat. Make sure there is an even number in the hat so everyone has the same amount. For example, if there are four players, there should be twenty pieces of paper in the hat, thus leaving each player with five pieces of paper.
Once the hat is empty, give everyone a watch, set a time to meet back at the spot you're standing in, and have everyone search for the items written on their paper. Be sure they keep an eye on the time, because once the time is up, they must return to the meeting spot with the items they found. It will be a race to see who can collect the most items before time runs out.
The winner will be the person who found the most items. If more than one has the same number of items, break the tie by having someone name another item, and at that moment have those who tied go find the item. Whoever finds the item and returns to the meeting spot first will be the winner.
For many, fall is also a time to enjoy the festivals and events around the area. I've scoured the Internet, local papers and flyers of Southern Illinois and compiled a list of all the fun you can have on this vibrant fall season. If I missed something, it's not because I didn't look!
Do you and your family enjoy arcade games? Mark your calendars for the second annual Pinball and Arcade Supershow starting on September 29 (3:00 p.m.) and ending on September 30 (starts at 11:00 a.m.). With an entry fee of only $10, you can play all the pinball and/or video arcade machines you want. In addition, if you're really good at pinball you can participate in the pinball tournament.
The Pinball and Arcade Supershow takes place at the Herrin Civic Center. For more information phone 618-751-8458.
Carnival rides and games, hickory-smoked barbeque, a pet parade, games for the kids, karoke, food of all kinds, vendors, a motorcycle show and rides on the Shawnee Queen River Taxi are just a few of the many activities your family can enjoy at the annual Hardin County Fluorspar Festival!
The annual Fluorspar Festival is held on the first weekend in October every year. Just drive into Rosiclare Illinois and the festival is all up and down Main Street. I can assure you there's something for every member of your family to enjoy, and every year a parade brings the event to an end.
Grab the family and enjoy three days of Johnson County's Fall Festival! If you or a member of your family can sing well, you have to enter the karaoke contest. In addition to the karaoke contest, there will also be a parade, Mr. and Miss Pageant, carnival rides and much more.
The festival will be held in the Vienna City Park, and it begins on October 6 and ends October 8. For more information phone 618-658-2063.
If you love chili, wrestling, haunted hayrides, pancakes, cake walks, live bands, flea markets, petting zoos and exhibits, you should make a drive to Carrier Mills beginning October 6 for their Catskins Day celebration. The fun and entertainment will last for three days, and believe me when I say, "you'll have a BLAST!"
To obtain more information and a schedule of each day's events, pick up the phone and call 618-658-2063. You won't want to miss this event!
On Saturday, October 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., your family can take part in Anna's Leaf, Bark and Seed Hikes. On this hike, you and your family will discover the reason leaves change color, and you'll also learn how to identify trees as the leaves on them disappear. The hike through nature will take place at the Giant City State Park. This one can be educational for the children.
For more information, call 618-457-4836. One other thing, if you can't make it on October 7 another hike will take place on October 14 -- same time, same place.
Gather up the family on November 11 and head to Anna to honor our veterans. At 2:00 p.m. Anna will host their Veteran's Day Parade. The parade will start from the city park entrance on Davie Street, and from there it will follow through Main Street to Jefferson Street, and back to the park. For more information, call 618-833-5182. Don’t forget to grab sacks for the kids; they'll need them to catch any candy thrown toward them during the parade.
Also on Saturday, November 11, round up the gang and get an early start on your Christmas shopping! You and the family will enjoy shopping, as the Merchants' Christmas Open House gets underway. There will be Christmas music and decorations, baked goodies for everyone, and a whole lot of shopping in the stores of downtown Golconda.
Since the Merchants' Christmas Open House lasts all day, you can enjoy the Veteran's Day celebration in Anna and then head to Golconda after the parade.
Beginning Thursday, November 16, loads of fun will be waiting for you under the big tent! No, it's not the circus, it's much better! Yes, that's right, Golconda's annual Deer Festival; I can smell the barbeque and funnel cakes already!
All the fun and celebrations will begin with a community service on the evening (7:00 p.m.) of November 16. The community service brings gospel music sung by the community's choir.
On the second day, November 17, beginning at 6:30 p.m., you can enjoy the Baby Photo contest followed by the Little Mister and Miss Pope County Deer Festival Pageant. After the Little Mister and Miss Pageant, the Junior Mister and Miss Pageant will begin.
If you don't get your fill of pageants on November 17, return to the big tent on the 18th (7:00 p.m.) to see which young woman from Pope County High School is crowned Deer Queen.
Ending the festival will be the annual Deer Festival Street Parade. The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m., and afterward you can buy a pound or two of the best barbaque in town! Yum, yum, I'm hungry just thinking about it.
Honest, you just can't pass through Main Street in Golconda without stopping-in at the Annual Deer Festival. Lots of fun for the whole family! Load up, head for the "big tent," and enjoy barbeque, funnel cakes, corn dogs, entertainment, pageants, and a whole lot more!
Get into the holiday spirit and take the young 'ins to see Santa Clause and get candy on December 2. On this date, Metropolis will host their Christmas Parade. The parade will feature floats, bands, and yes, Santa Clause too.
If you would like to find out more about the Christmas Parade in Metropolis, phone 1-800-949-5740, or send an e-mail to deneal@verizon.net.
From 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on December 9 Golconda will start their annual Christmas House Tour. Participants will depart from the museum for a candlelight walk and Christmas caroling to the courtyard. At the courtyard, everyone will enjoy hot chocolate to warm their bones, cookies to satisfy their need for sweets, and a visit from good ole' Saint Nick. There will also be a bonfire to keep you warm. Call 618-683-9702 if you'd like additional information.
Would you and your family like to discover how the plants and animals living in the Shawnee National Forest adapt to the winter atmosphere? If, on December 9, you pay a visit to the Giant City State Park Visitor Center in Anna you will discover the facts as you take part in the Wonders of Winter Walk. The walk will take place at 1:00 p.m., and will last until 2:30 p.m.
Not only will you find out how the plants and animals adjust to the winter atmosphere, but you and your crew will also enjoy the scenic views of the Shawnee National Forest. Dress warm and have fun!
That concludes the fall festivities in the Southern Illinois area. Tomorrow I'll have even more fall fun you and your family can enjoy, and the events listed then will be in Western Kentucky.
If there's an area you would like me to cover -- an area I've not done yet -- let me know the area by posting your comment and I'll cover it for you. If you'd rather not mention an area or event in the comment area, then you can send your request or event information to me via fax. My toll-free fax number is 866-653-9818.
Don't forget, mark your calendars, and make your plans for the entire family. Until tomorrow, may God bless you and yours!
Cam's Charleston: Touring the Holy City with a Local
There's a ticklish irony knowing that my friend Cam lives in a city known as "the Holy City." Luckily for him, Charleston is so nicknamed for the numerous church steeples defining the skyline. He recently played tour guide and introduced me to his Charleston, South Carolina.
Our Saturday morning began with sipping coffee, catching up and planning the rest of the weekend at downtown's East Bay Coffee House. It seemed to be one of a few places open. Sitting in the oversized sofa tucked in the back by the bar, I felt like one of the artsy poets who perform during Monday Night Blues. A poetry reading begins at 8:00 p.m., followed by musicians at 9:00 p.m.
We then wandered through the historic City Market between North and South Market Streets. It was a little overwhelming taking everything in. Built in the late 1800s as a produce and meat market, these four brick stalls hold a mix of Charleston's finest handicrafts, baked goods and modern knickknacks. [Tip: Bring quarters for parking].
The area's most popular crafts are hand-woven, aromatic sweetgrass baskets. Weaving dates back to the 17th century when Western African slaves were introduced to South Carolina's Lowcountry. The baskets had functional uses then, but today, are art masterpieces. Women sit, weave and take the time to say "hello," in and around the market. The baskets' sweet, woody aroma was one of the best scents in Charleston!
We tasted a local treat called benne wafers from Market Street Munchies. These thin, crunchy cookies are sweet with a hint of saltiness. The benne seeds look and taste similar to sesame seeds and were introduced by West African slaves. The seeds are believed to harbor good luck to those who eat them.
Being a Saturday, the Charleston Farmer's Market was happening at Marion Square. This is the place to find farm-grown and organic fruits and vegetables, vibrant wildflowers, jewelry, handmade soaps, jellies, artwork and other crafts. The Farmer's Market is open every Saturday now through December 17, 2006. In 2007, it should begin again in April sometime.
Earrings, necklaces and rings made from shards of white and blue Chinese porcelain and set in sterling silver really caught my attention. The porcelain dates back to the Qing and Ming Dynasties (300 to 600 years ago). The artists, Fran Ridgell and Robert Clair, collectively called South East Creations, spent time in China and Japan and recently moved back to the Charleston area. Forty percent of the proceeds from the jewelry sales go to the Cambodian Academic Relief Project serving needy students and schools in Cambodia.
Despite the thick, sticky humidity on this September morning, we walked down historic streets gazing at mansions with amazingly lush mini-gardens. We crisscrossed over Church, Meeting and King Streets, seeing the transition from modern, high-end shops to classy antiques and art galleries. In the residential areas, tall oak trees arched and provided much appreciated shade. [Tip: Wear flat shoes, no heals. Some of Charleston's historic streets are cobbled and would be difficult to maneuver in stilettos].
Over on Archdale Street, the Unitarian Church in Charleston's Churchyard called us in. The canopied tree walkway looked invitingly cool. We were intrigued to see what was at the other end and found something like a secret garden, except it was a graveyard. Grass seemed a bit overgrown, but the walkways along the weathered headstones (dating back to at least the 1800s) are maintained. Pink and orange flowers peeked out of the tall grasses and a chorus of birds sang along with the organ playing in the church.
Rumbling tummies called us to the rolling surf of nearby Folly Beach. One of Cam's favorite spots - for lunch, dinner and evening - is 11 Center Street. The first floor has rows and rows of wine. I picked out an "okay" Oregon chardonnay from the cooler and took it upstairs for a bird's-eye-view of Folly Beach's main drag and the water. 11 Center Street serves a Tapas menu with Mediterranean-American flare. The coconut onion rings were tasty. Imported beers and microbrews are available, too.
Our evening plans were made with help from the area's free entertainment publication, the Charleston City Paper. Decisions, decisions. It was off to Theatre 99 to see the weekly Saturday performance of The Have Nots! Improv [Comedy] Jam. As we wandered along the waterfront killing time for the 8:00 p.m. show, gussied-up wedding parties left churches and starry-eyed newlyweds cuddled in the back of horse-drawn carriages.
If you've seen Drew Carey's television show, Whose Line Is It Anyway? then you understand improvisational comedy. Audience participation is a must and Cam being a born performer, volunteered to help the comedy troupe with a skit. Bottom line, funny stuff. [Tip: Bring cash; credit cards are not accepted; and don't be shy during the performance!].
A late-night, light meal and hookah pipe topped off the night at Cafe' Paradiso on South Market Street. We sat by the sidewalk eating a plate of fresh hummus, zippy tabouli and other Mediterranean treats while smoking a hookah pipe, rented from Cafe' Paradiso. A live band drew a crowd, as did the hookah. Passersby stopped and watched, thinking we were smoking something illegal, when in fact, we were smoking mint flavored tobacco. Cam invited the curious folks over, explained the pipe and offered tokes to everyone from young college students to gray-haired, sophisticated ladies.
Shrimp and grits was my Sunday morning breakfast at the St. John's Island Cafe', a little place we found on our way to the Charleston Tea Plantation. Cam enjoyed the seafood omelet and portions were generous. The Cafe' looked like a favorite among locals.
The Charleston Tea Plantation was the main reason for making the trip to the area. The drive down Maybank Highway is beautiful; huge oak trees dripping with Spanish moss canopy the road. Private plantation homes are on either side of the street, hidden at the end of long, winding driveways. Just when we thought we missed it, we'd spot signs giving us mileage updates.
Tours of the Charleston Tea Plantation began in January 2006 after three years of restoring the grounds. The tour is a brief trip through the factory, explaining how the tea leaves are harvested and how tea is "born." Interestingly, black, oolong and green teas are all derived from the same tea leaf. What makes it a specific type of tea is how long the leaves are oxygenated. Iced tea is served in the gift shop section, which of course, sells tea and tea-related souvenirs. Visitors cannot wander through the rows of tea bushes, but can get pretty close.
During my brief visit to Charleston, I didn't walk along on a ghost tour, visit the Slave Mart Museum or Boone Hall Plantation. Despite missing the typical tourist spots, I'm glad for experiencing the city through a local's eyes. Especially those of a friend. Besides, this leaves more to explore on a return visit.
- JA Huber
Our Saturday morning began with sipping coffee, catching up and planning the rest of the weekend at downtown's East Bay Coffee House. It seemed to be one of a few places open. Sitting in the oversized sofa tucked in the back by the bar, I felt like one of the artsy poets who perform during Monday Night Blues. A poetry reading begins at 8:00 p.m., followed by musicians at 9:00 p.m.
We then wandered through the historic City Market between North and South Market Streets. It was a little overwhelming taking everything in. Built in the late 1800s as a produce and meat market, these four brick stalls hold a mix of Charleston's finest handicrafts, baked goods and modern knickknacks. [Tip: Bring quarters for parking].
The area's most popular crafts are hand-woven, aromatic sweetgrass baskets. Weaving dates back to the 17th century when Western African slaves were introduced to South Carolina's Lowcountry. The baskets had functional uses then, but today, are art masterpieces. Women sit, weave and take the time to say "hello," in and around the market. The baskets' sweet, woody aroma was one of the best scents in Charleston!
We tasted a local treat called benne wafers from Market Street Munchies. These thin, crunchy cookies are sweet with a hint of saltiness. The benne seeds look and taste similar to sesame seeds and were introduced by West African slaves. The seeds are believed to harbor good luck to those who eat them.
Being a Saturday, the Charleston Farmer's Market was happening at Marion Square. This is the place to find farm-grown and organic fruits and vegetables, vibrant wildflowers, jewelry, handmade soaps, jellies, artwork and other crafts. The Farmer's Market is open every Saturday now through December 17, 2006. In 2007, it should begin again in April sometime.
Earrings, necklaces and rings made from shards of white and blue Chinese porcelain and set in sterling silver really caught my attention. The porcelain dates back to the Qing and Ming Dynasties (300 to 600 years ago). The artists, Fran Ridgell and Robert Clair, collectively called South East Creations, spent time in China and Japan and recently moved back to the Charleston area. Forty percent of the proceeds from the jewelry sales go to the Cambodian Academic Relief Project serving needy students and schools in Cambodia.
Despite the thick, sticky humidity on this September morning, we walked down historic streets gazing at mansions with amazingly lush mini-gardens. We crisscrossed over Church, Meeting and King Streets, seeing the transition from modern, high-end shops to classy antiques and art galleries. In the residential areas, tall oak trees arched and provided much appreciated shade. [Tip: Wear flat shoes, no heals. Some of Charleston's historic streets are cobbled and would be difficult to maneuver in stilettos].
Over on Archdale Street, the Unitarian Church in Charleston's Churchyard called us in. The canopied tree walkway looked invitingly cool. We were intrigued to see what was at the other end and found something like a secret garden, except it was a graveyard. Grass seemed a bit overgrown, but the walkways along the weathered headstones (dating back to at least the 1800s) are maintained. Pink and orange flowers peeked out of the tall grasses and a chorus of birds sang along with the organ playing in the church.
Rumbling tummies called us to the rolling surf of nearby Folly Beach. One of Cam's favorite spots - for lunch, dinner and evening - is 11 Center Street. The first floor has rows and rows of wine. I picked out an "okay" Oregon chardonnay from the cooler and took it upstairs for a bird's-eye-view of Folly Beach's main drag and the water. 11 Center Street serves a Tapas menu with Mediterranean-American flare. The coconut onion rings were tasty. Imported beers and microbrews are available, too.
Our evening plans were made with help from the area's free entertainment publication, the Charleston City Paper. Decisions, decisions. It was off to Theatre 99 to see the weekly Saturday performance of The Have Nots! Improv [Comedy] Jam. As we wandered along the waterfront killing time for the 8:00 p.m. show, gussied-up wedding parties left churches and starry-eyed newlyweds cuddled in the back of horse-drawn carriages.
If you've seen Drew Carey's television show, Whose Line Is It Anyway? then you understand improvisational comedy. Audience participation is a must and Cam being a born performer, volunteered to help the comedy troupe with a skit. Bottom line, funny stuff. [Tip: Bring cash; credit cards are not accepted; and don't be shy during the performance!].
A late-night, light meal and hookah pipe topped off the night at Cafe' Paradiso on South Market Street. We sat by the sidewalk eating a plate of fresh hummus, zippy tabouli and other Mediterranean treats while smoking a hookah pipe, rented from Cafe' Paradiso. A live band drew a crowd, as did the hookah. Passersby stopped and watched, thinking we were smoking something illegal, when in fact, we were smoking mint flavored tobacco. Cam invited the curious folks over, explained the pipe and offered tokes to everyone from young college students to gray-haired, sophisticated ladies.
Shrimp and grits was my Sunday morning breakfast at the St. John's Island Cafe', a little place we found on our way to the Charleston Tea Plantation. Cam enjoyed the seafood omelet and portions were generous. The Cafe' looked like a favorite among locals.
The Charleston Tea Plantation was the main reason for making the trip to the area. The drive down Maybank Highway is beautiful; huge oak trees dripping with Spanish moss canopy the road. Private plantation homes are on either side of the street, hidden at the end of long, winding driveways. Just when we thought we missed it, we'd spot signs giving us mileage updates.
Tours of the Charleston Tea Plantation began in January 2006 after three years of restoring the grounds. The tour is a brief trip through the factory, explaining how the tea leaves are harvested and how tea is "born." Interestingly, black, oolong and green teas are all derived from the same tea leaf. What makes it a specific type of tea is how long the leaves are oxygenated. Iced tea is served in the gift shop section, which of course, sells tea and tea-related souvenirs. Visitors cannot wander through the rows of tea bushes, but can get pretty close.
During my brief visit to Charleston, I didn't walk along on a ghost tour, visit the Slave Mart Museum or Boone Hall Plantation. Despite missing the typical tourist spots, I'm glad for experiencing the city through a local's eyes. Especially those of a friend. Besides, this leaves more to explore on a return visit.
- JA Huber
Monday, September 25, 2006
More Places To Eat While In Cincinnati
The second in the series of great places to test your culinary palate while visiting the fair city of Cincinnati, Ohio.
There are several cities in the Unites States that are known for its pizzeria. Chicago, Illinois, New York, New York and the state of New Jersey all come to mind when one would like to find a great slice of pie. Nott too many people would think that Cincinnati, Ohio would be amongst one of the major cities where pizza is king. The next time that you are in Cincinnati, and you are crazing a calzone or a piece of pizza, I would suggest making a stop in at Mio's Pizzeria.
Mio's Pizzeria is located at the corner of Paxton and Isabella Ave in the quaint neighborhood of Hyde Park has several other locations through out Cincinnati.
Once you taste Mio's you will not want to go to another place for a slice of pie. This neighborhood pizzeria stands by its name. The small seating area (seats 18) is a great place for an after school snack or a pre date appetizer. A full menu boasts of anything from breadsticks to meat filled calzones. One thing that is unique to this neighborhood pizza joint is its authentic stuffed pizza. Mio's original crust is not lathered in oil like the larger chains. It's naturally, oven baked crust will keep you coming back for more.
This small, but popular operation has their employers doing it all. Taking delivery and walk up orders, along with preparing orders. Taking a brief glance over the well-illustrated menu, you can choose a small antipasto salad and, surpassing the pre-packaged selection of pizzas, you can choose a large (15") and select your own toppings to see how they handle variation. The server will accept 'off the menu' requests without blinking. If you like a lot of tomato sauce, this is not the place for you. Instead of being overshadowed by tomato sauce sprinkled with shanty toppings, the taste of a pie prepared here at Mio's is enhanced equally by the fresh tasting tomato sauce, hand chopped red onions and green olives, and thinly sliced portabella mushrooms. Piping hot and ready to eat, this pie is a prefect ending to a long Sunday afternoon of moving,
If you brought your children along for your trip to Cincinnati or hosting a Sunday football marathon? Mio's also has an easy to read kids menu and pre package catering packages printed on the back of the menu.
Mio's Pizzeria 3703 Paxton Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45209 main (513) 531-4200
Monday - Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Friday - Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm Sunday: 12 pm - 10 pm Cash - Visa - Master Card Non-Smoking Only
Staying just north of downtown Cincinnati? Wake up and grab a rich cup of java at Pleasant Perk Coffee in Pleasant Ridge.
Walking into the morning sunlit shop, the sun's glow will bounce off the dark red furniture, giving the inside a deep shine. The barista is buried behind the varied displays of pastries coffee posts and glistening appliances. Though located in a quaint northern suburb of the city, you can find an eclectic variety of people who give patronage to this small coffee shop. While waiting for your order, it would be no surprise to see either a jogger, esthetically clad in running shorts and Under Armor top, or a person on their way into the office, dressed as though on his way to an early Monday morning business meeting at Procter & Gamble's downtown office.
Not only does this small, but pleasantly roomy coffee shop boast its eclectic array of customers, the coffee also is varied.
Pleasant Perk is a great little shot to visit before you out of town business meeting.
6105 Montgomery Rd.Cincinnati, OH 45213(513) 531-4126Monday through Thursday: 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Moving back Downtown, where you will most likely be staying when visiting the Queen city, you can find many different places to fill your tummy. When heading out for lunch have you ever had a craving for a mix of Thai and American cuisine? I did not think that you would, but if you ever did, you can stumble into Rise & Shine restaurant, located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati.
Though this restaurant has traditional American breakfast and lunch menus all hours that it is open, this place also boasts of a Tai buffet from 11:30am to 1:30pm Monday through Fridays. It also includes a full menu of traditional Thai cuisine. This is great for the downtown worker who has little time for lunch but likes to pack a plate.
After being seated, you are handed the menus and find there are a plethora of choices for such a small operation. There is a complete Tai menu accompanied with a menu solely devoted to its western counterpart. Everything from steak and eggs to the traditional Tai curry are sparkled though out the menu. Bottoming out the list of selections are different types of French toast, pancake combinations, Thai vegetable dishes, traditional noodle dishes and breakfast combinations.
130 E. 6th St.Cincinnati, OH 45202(513) 421-33087 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Rise & Shine is a great place to get quick and easy Thai food when you are in a pinch, but if you ask anyone where the BEST place to get Thai food while you are visiting Cincinnati, 10 out of 10 people will say Teak Thai Restaurant.
Teak is located in the historic neighborhood of Mt. Adams and is un-arguably the best Thai restaurant in the Greater Cincinnati area.
The quant, semi crowded space over looking Cincinnati and The Steps of Cincinnati, is a welcomed changed to the strip-malled frenzy and other tourist traps that Cincinnati has to offer.
Seated outside, here were several pockets of urbanites that had also decided to forgo the indoor oriental decor for a traditional Cincinnati scenic view. Here, before you order your meal, you can waver back and forth from a tradition American drinks to an authentic Asian flare or finally opt for a glass of beer made in Thailand.
Teak's service is one of the best in the city. Even on busy nights, you never wait more than a few minutes for a table to open, and you never wait more than 20min (at the most) for a dine in order. Ordering the Holy Basil with Tofu at a spiciness level of 4 is a must if you are only in town for a few days. The rich spicy flavor was welcomed and even the tofu was full of flavor
To top it off, you get a fortune cookie at the end of the meal.
Monday - Friday: Lunch - 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM - Dinner - 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Saturday: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Sunday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
1051 Saint Gregory St Cincinnati, OH 45202-1733(513)665-9800
So, again, the next time that you are in Cincinnati, do not bolster yourself in your hotel room and settle for that mundane hotel eatery. Get out and enjoy the different type of food that you can experience while in the city of Flying Pigs (no pun intended).
There are several cities in the Unites States that are known for its pizzeria. Chicago, Illinois, New York, New York and the state of New Jersey all come to mind when one would like to find a great slice of pie. Nott too many people would think that Cincinnati, Ohio would be amongst one of the major cities where pizza is king. The next time that you are in Cincinnati, and you are crazing a calzone or a piece of pizza, I would suggest making a stop in at Mio's Pizzeria.
Mio's Pizzeria is located at the corner of Paxton and Isabella Ave in the quaint neighborhood of Hyde Park has several other locations through out Cincinnati.
Once you taste Mio's you will not want to go to another place for a slice of pie. This neighborhood pizzeria stands by its name. The small seating area (seats 18) is a great place for an after school snack or a pre date appetizer. A full menu boasts of anything from breadsticks to meat filled calzones. One thing that is unique to this neighborhood pizza joint is its authentic stuffed pizza. Mio's original crust is not lathered in oil like the larger chains. It's naturally, oven baked crust will keep you coming back for more.
This small, but popular operation has their employers doing it all. Taking delivery and walk up orders, along with preparing orders. Taking a brief glance over the well-illustrated menu, you can choose a small antipasto salad and, surpassing the pre-packaged selection of pizzas, you can choose a large (15") and select your own toppings to see how they handle variation. The server will accept 'off the menu' requests without blinking. If you like a lot of tomato sauce, this is not the place for you. Instead of being overshadowed by tomato sauce sprinkled with shanty toppings, the taste of a pie prepared here at Mio's is enhanced equally by the fresh tasting tomato sauce, hand chopped red onions and green olives, and thinly sliced portabella mushrooms. Piping hot and ready to eat, this pie is a prefect ending to a long Sunday afternoon of moving,
If you brought your children along for your trip to Cincinnati or hosting a Sunday football marathon? Mio's also has an easy to read kids menu and pre package catering packages printed on the back of the menu.
Mio's Pizzeria 3703 Paxton Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45209 main (513) 531-4200
Monday - Thursday: 11 am - 10 pm Friday - Saturday: 11 am - 11 pm Sunday: 12 pm - 10 pm Cash - Visa - Master Card Non-Smoking Only
Staying just north of downtown Cincinnati? Wake up and grab a rich cup of java at Pleasant Perk Coffee in Pleasant Ridge.
Walking into the morning sunlit shop, the sun's glow will bounce off the dark red furniture, giving the inside a deep shine. The barista is buried behind the varied displays of pastries coffee posts and glistening appliances. Though located in a quaint northern suburb of the city, you can find an eclectic variety of people who give patronage to this small coffee shop. While waiting for your order, it would be no surprise to see either a jogger, esthetically clad in running shorts and Under Armor top, or a person on their way into the office, dressed as though on his way to an early Monday morning business meeting at Procter & Gamble's downtown office.
Not only does this small, but pleasantly roomy coffee shop boast its eclectic array of customers, the coffee also is varied.
Pleasant Perk is a great little shot to visit before you out of town business meeting.
6105 Montgomery Rd.Cincinnati, OH 45213(513) 531-4126Monday through Thursday: 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Moving back Downtown, where you will most likely be staying when visiting the Queen city, you can find many different places to fill your tummy. When heading out for lunch have you ever had a craving for a mix of Thai and American cuisine? I did not think that you would, but if you ever did, you can stumble into Rise & Shine restaurant, located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati.
Though this restaurant has traditional American breakfast and lunch menus all hours that it is open, this place also boasts of a Tai buffet from 11:30am to 1:30pm Monday through Fridays. It also includes a full menu of traditional Thai cuisine. This is great for the downtown worker who has little time for lunch but likes to pack a plate.
After being seated, you are handed the menus and find there are a plethora of choices for such a small operation. There is a complete Tai menu accompanied with a menu solely devoted to its western counterpart. Everything from steak and eggs to the traditional Tai curry are sparkled though out the menu. Bottoming out the list of selections are different types of French toast, pancake combinations, Thai vegetable dishes, traditional noodle dishes and breakfast combinations.
130 E. 6th St.Cincinnati, OH 45202(513) 421-33087 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Rise & Shine is a great place to get quick and easy Thai food when you are in a pinch, but if you ask anyone where the BEST place to get Thai food while you are visiting Cincinnati, 10 out of 10 people will say Teak Thai Restaurant.
Teak is located in the historic neighborhood of Mt. Adams and is un-arguably the best Thai restaurant in the Greater Cincinnati area.
The quant, semi crowded space over looking Cincinnati and The Steps of Cincinnati, is a welcomed changed to the strip-malled frenzy and other tourist traps that Cincinnati has to offer.
Seated outside, here were several pockets of urbanites that had also decided to forgo the indoor oriental decor for a traditional Cincinnati scenic view. Here, before you order your meal, you can waver back and forth from a tradition American drinks to an authentic Asian flare or finally opt for a glass of beer made in Thailand.
Teak's service is one of the best in the city. Even on busy nights, you never wait more than a few minutes for a table to open, and you never wait more than 20min (at the most) for a dine in order. Ordering the Holy Basil with Tofu at a spiciness level of 4 is a must if you are only in town for a few days. The rich spicy flavor was welcomed and even the tofu was full of flavor
To top it off, you get a fortune cookie at the end of the meal.
Monday - Friday: Lunch - 11:30 AM - 3:00 PM - Dinner - 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Saturday: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM, Sunday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
1051 Saint Gregory St Cincinnati, OH 45202-1733(513)665-9800
So, again, the next time that you are in Cincinnati, do not bolster yourself in your hotel room and settle for that mundane hotel eatery. Get out and enjoy the different type of food that you can experience while in the city of Flying Pigs (no pun intended).
Where To Get Your 'Grub On' While In Cincinnati
There are few things that you HAVE to do in life. Some would say those things are to die and pay taxes. Most of us know that dieing is inevitable and paying taxes is questionable. I go against the grain and say that in addition to meeting your maker, you also, in life, HAVE to have sex and eat not necessarily in that order)
Travel is somewhere near the top ten of that list as well. Let's combine the latter of the short list mentioned above with the joy of visiting other places to chronicle the some of the great places to 'get your grub on' while visiting Cincinnati, Ohio.
A Breakfast of Champions
It has been said many times over that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Mostly attributing to the fact that when you wake in the morning, it is indisputably the longest amount of spent without indulging in a meal. So when you are traveling, one must make sure that breakfast that you find will both satisfy your growling stomach and wake you up to get you started for the day. The combination of coffee with your morning chow is a great way to do this. This is one reason why coffee shops have expanded to serve much more than just your regular cup of java. Large coffee chains have added to their menus a different bevy of barista wares. This phenomenon has not been lost on the smaller, locally owned coffee corner stores. While in the Queen City, you should find your way downtown to Coffee Emporium, which is a perfect place to find the regular cup of Joe and more. For one thing, they roast their own coffee beans and have a mariade of coffee beans to choose from. They only have a select few that are readily available for the drink and go crowd, but you can wait a few minutes longer for whichever flavor you want.
If you are in town on a Saturday morning, it is one of the better times to go because you miss the sometime hurried bustle of the downtown crowd. Along with a Grande Carmel Latte, you can order a sausage, egg and cheese croissant. Again, something else that can not be found at that larger coffee stores (such as the one based in Seattle, Washington). Not only are the baristas very pleasant, the also know how to make a sandwich. Clad den with wireless internet access, if on a business trip, you can park yourself on the very comfortable couch and place your lap top atop of your lap to work on your business proposal and await your order. Stay awhile, relax with your cup of coffee and maybe you will run into one of Cincinnati's who's who. Coffee Emporium has another location in Hyde Park.
110 East Central ParkwayHistoric Over-the-RhineDowntown Cincinnatit: 513.651.5483Store HoursM-F 7a - 4p
A Touch of Paris
When looking for French cuisine in Cincinnati, there are a few different places one can frequent. Un-surprisingly there are all run by the famous Jean Robert, who has recently branched out and scudded across the Ohio River to quaint street of Greenup Ave to open the Greenup Cafe.
This cafe on Greenup Street in Covington, KY surprisingly brings a touch of Rue De Champs Elysee to this Northern Kentucky city. Its outdoor seating, few tables in the front and the side and a larger number in the back, was a perfect compliment to a Saturday morning of next to perfect weather.
You can walk inside the small service area where there were customers lined to by freshly made pasties on display, but most simply seats themselves, a great way to cut the tension and relax the customer.
Here you can ponder of a very limited but varied menu. If you make it here, you should try the Omlette Medley or buttermilk pancakes.
The Omelet medley is filled with mushrooms, tomatoes, gruyere cheese, asparagus and creme fiache, topped with parsley and accompanied by home-style potatoes, cut in quarters and seasoned with a slight spicy Cajon sprinkle.
308 Greenup St
Covington, KY
M-Sa
6am to 4:30
Far East In The Mid West
Staying just across the river in Covington, KY, if Asian cuisine is what you fancy, you can try a taste of Korean cuisine. Riverside Korean Restaurant, located just blocks from the Greenup Cafe on Madison Avenue, is so named because of its close proximity to the water of both the Ohio and Licking Rivers. This small and quaint restaurant is nestled in Covington's old downtown district. Opened limited hours during lunch and dinner (as are most restaurants in this area) a reservation is not necessary at dinnertime, but they are taken and highly encouraged.
Like many other Asian cultures, it is customary to serve dinner ban-chan, a number of small dishes that we would call appetizers. These are pictured in the white bowls. The ban-chan included kimchi, dried radish, cold kimchi, cooked yams and spinach, all delightfully seasoned with authentic Korean flavor.
Surprisingly, there are a number of selections for such a small and limited restaurant. Not too used to spicy food, if eating with a large group, you should decide that the consensus to order all of the dishes mildly hot, because they are meant to be shared.
I do have to say that there are a limited number of establishments that serve authentic Korean faire (I do believe there are only a handful in the entire Cincinnati area) but being a former Korean Linguist in the US Army and obtaining a degree in Korean Studies, after eating a meal here, I thought that I was once again in South Korea.
512 Madison AveCovington, KY 41011-1506 (859) 291-1484
Mon-Fri 11:30am- 2:00pm Fri-Sat 5:00pm-10:30pm Sat 12:00pm- 2:00pm Sun-Thu 5:00pm- 9:30pm
Korean is not the only Asian fair that you will find in Cincinnati. Thai food is also very prominent here as well. While in Cincinnati, you should venture to the new Thai place in the Kenwood neighborhood of Cincinnati called MeKong.
This newly opened eatery specializing in Thai cuisine is located on the south side of Kenwood on Montgomery road just past Kennedy Heights and Silverton. It is located in a very non descript strip mall on the side of the road. You would pass it if you were not looking for it. The all boothed (all lined one behind each other) dining area poses a tight fit if you want to have a business luncheon but is perfect for the late evening dinner before heading back to your hotel for the night.
So the next time that you are in Cincinnati, do not bolster yourself in your hotel room and settle for that mundane hotel eatery. Get out and enjoy the different type of food that you can experience while in the city of Flying Pigs (no pun intended).
Travel is somewhere near the top ten of that list as well. Let's combine the latter of the short list mentioned above with the joy of visiting other places to chronicle the some of the great places to 'get your grub on' while visiting Cincinnati, Ohio.
A Breakfast of Champions
It has been said many times over that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Mostly attributing to the fact that when you wake in the morning, it is indisputably the longest amount of spent without indulging in a meal. So when you are traveling, one must make sure that breakfast that you find will both satisfy your growling stomach and wake you up to get you started for the day. The combination of coffee with your morning chow is a great way to do this. This is one reason why coffee shops have expanded to serve much more than just your regular cup of java. Large coffee chains have added to their menus a different bevy of barista wares. This phenomenon has not been lost on the smaller, locally owned coffee corner stores. While in the Queen City, you should find your way downtown to Coffee Emporium, which is a perfect place to find the regular cup of Joe and more. For one thing, they roast their own coffee beans and have a mariade of coffee beans to choose from. They only have a select few that are readily available for the drink and go crowd, but you can wait a few minutes longer for whichever flavor you want.
If you are in town on a Saturday morning, it is one of the better times to go because you miss the sometime hurried bustle of the downtown crowd. Along with a Grande Carmel Latte, you can order a sausage, egg and cheese croissant. Again, something else that can not be found at that larger coffee stores (such as the one based in Seattle, Washington). Not only are the baristas very pleasant, the also know how to make a sandwich. Clad den with wireless internet access, if on a business trip, you can park yourself on the very comfortable couch and place your lap top atop of your lap to work on your business proposal and await your order. Stay awhile, relax with your cup of coffee and maybe you will run into one of Cincinnati's who's who. Coffee Emporium has another location in Hyde Park.
110 East Central ParkwayHistoric Over-the-RhineDowntown Cincinnatit: 513.651.5483Store HoursM-F 7a - 4p
A Touch of Paris
When looking for French cuisine in Cincinnati, there are a few different places one can frequent. Un-surprisingly there are all run by the famous Jean Robert, who has recently branched out and scudded across the Ohio River to quaint street of Greenup Ave to open the Greenup Cafe.
This cafe on Greenup Street in Covington, KY surprisingly brings a touch of Rue De Champs Elysee to this Northern Kentucky city. Its outdoor seating, few tables in the front and the side and a larger number in the back, was a perfect compliment to a Saturday morning of next to perfect weather.
You can walk inside the small service area where there were customers lined to by freshly made pasties on display, but most simply seats themselves, a great way to cut the tension and relax the customer.
Here you can ponder of a very limited but varied menu. If you make it here, you should try the Omlette Medley or buttermilk pancakes.
The Omelet medley is filled with mushrooms, tomatoes, gruyere cheese, asparagus and creme fiache, topped with parsley and accompanied by home-style potatoes, cut in quarters and seasoned with a slight spicy Cajon sprinkle.
308 Greenup St
Covington, KY
M-Sa
6am to 4:30
Far East In The Mid West
Staying just across the river in Covington, KY, if Asian cuisine is what you fancy, you can try a taste of Korean cuisine. Riverside Korean Restaurant, located just blocks from the Greenup Cafe on Madison Avenue, is so named because of its close proximity to the water of both the Ohio and Licking Rivers. This small and quaint restaurant is nestled in Covington's old downtown district. Opened limited hours during lunch and dinner (as are most restaurants in this area) a reservation is not necessary at dinnertime, but they are taken and highly encouraged.
Like many other Asian cultures, it is customary to serve dinner ban-chan, a number of small dishes that we would call appetizers. These are pictured in the white bowls. The ban-chan included kimchi, dried radish, cold kimchi, cooked yams and spinach, all delightfully seasoned with authentic Korean flavor.
Surprisingly, there are a number of selections for such a small and limited restaurant. Not too used to spicy food, if eating with a large group, you should decide that the consensus to order all of the dishes mildly hot, because they are meant to be shared.
I do have to say that there are a limited number of establishments that serve authentic Korean faire (I do believe there are only a handful in the entire Cincinnati area) but being a former Korean Linguist in the US Army and obtaining a degree in Korean Studies, after eating a meal here, I thought that I was once again in South Korea.
512 Madison AveCovington, KY 41011-1506 (859) 291-1484
Mon-Fri 11:30am- 2:00pm Fri-Sat 5:00pm-10:30pm Sat 12:00pm- 2:00pm Sun-Thu 5:00pm- 9:30pm
Korean is not the only Asian fair that you will find in Cincinnati. Thai food is also very prominent here as well. While in Cincinnati, you should venture to the new Thai place in the Kenwood neighborhood of Cincinnati called MeKong.
This newly opened eatery specializing in Thai cuisine is located on the south side of Kenwood on Montgomery road just past Kennedy Heights and Silverton. It is located in a very non descript strip mall on the side of the road. You would pass it if you were not looking for it. The all boothed (all lined one behind each other) dining area poses a tight fit if you want to have a business luncheon but is perfect for the late evening dinner before heading back to your hotel for the night.
So the next time that you are in Cincinnati, do not bolster yourself in your hotel room and settle for that mundane hotel eatery. Get out and enjoy the different type of food that you can experience while in the city of Flying Pigs (no pun intended).
Edmonton, Its Mall and Other Points of Interest
The West Edmonton Mall is said to be one of the largest in North America. It boasts as many as 140,000 visitors on a busy day and many of these are from the United States. The West Edmonton Mall is located in the city of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
The city of Edmonton is located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River.
Home to about 937,845 people, Edmonton finds itself the sixth largest city in all of Canada. The city of Edmonton is also home to the West Edmonton Mall. This is a mall of gigantic proportions and features over 800 stores and other amazing things to do, but more about the mall a little later.
The city of Edmonton boasts many things to do and places to see besides the mall. The downtown area is famous (not to mention old). The City Market (the Rice Street Market, located at 97 Street and 102 Avenue ) is older than the city itself and a much visited place to get fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers. The Old Strathcona District is also a must see. It is an area of the city that was once the town of Strathcona and dates back to 1891 and features several buildings from this era. The area now entails many pubs, eateries and several fine shops. The city of Edmonton is also home to the Alberta legislatures (it is the provincial capital); the Odyssium (a space and science centre); The Edmonton Art Gallery; The Commonwealth Stadium (where the Edmonton Eskimos Football team plays. They play with the Canadian Football League); The Valley Zoo and the Provincial Museum of Alberta. The city of Edmonton boasts over 2,000 restaurants and offers much choice when dining out. The hotels in the city are top notch and offer all the comforts of home and even a few extras. There are plenty of things to do and see in downtown Edmonton.
A short skip and a hop away is the West Edmonton Mall. This mall is the largest in the world and is truly a sight to see. It offers over 800 shops from the usual that one would expect such as Claires and Sears and truly Canadian shops such as The Bay (formally known as the Hudsons Bay Company); Winners (a fashion must stop for men, women and children)and Tim Hortons (donuts and coffee) as well as funky stores such as April Cornell (clothes for women) to B Sweet (a candy store). The mall also features truly unique stores such as The Mounted Police Outpost (the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and their symbols are the third most recognized in the world following right behind Coca Cola and Mickey Mouse!) and Pride of Kenya (a store that features African arts and other treasures). It is truly a unique place to shop!
Not only a paradise for any shopper, the West Edmonton mall offers so much more than shopping! Travel to the mall, but do not forget your bathing suits! The mall has an amusement park (Galaxyland Amusement Park) that has 25 rides to choose from, all indoors! The mall also has an indoor water park that has water slides and a wave pool! The indoor park also boasts a couple of mini golf courses, an ice skating rink (an official hockey sized rink that the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) occasionally practice on and the mall even has a marine centre that you do not want to miss either! There is also a lot to keep you busy if shopping is not your thing!
The West Edmonton Mall also is home to two fine hotels. One is the West Edmonton Mall Inn and The Fantasyland Hotel and true to its name, it is a fantasy land. This hotel offers rooms that revolve around a theme such as an African Safari or a as an Arabian for a night and with many eating establishments in the mall and in both hotels, you are sure never to go hungry.
If you are planning a trip to visit the largest mall in the world, keep in mind the temperatures of Edmonton. The city has snow from November until March and therefore has temperatures that reflect that. During the summer months, the city reaches a pleasant 20C (70 F) with lows at night in the teens. The winter is very cold, so if you visit during the winter season, you will want to make sure you take plenty of warm outer wear, along with a hat, scarf and mitts.
The city is a great place to visit and especially if you are a shopaholic, the mall should be first on your list!
The city of Edmonton is located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River.
Home to about 937,845 people, Edmonton finds itself the sixth largest city in all of Canada. The city of Edmonton is also home to the West Edmonton Mall. This is a mall of gigantic proportions and features over 800 stores and other amazing things to do, but more about the mall a little later.
The city of Edmonton boasts many things to do and places to see besides the mall. The downtown area is famous (not to mention old). The City Market (the Rice Street Market, located at 97 Street and 102 Avenue ) is older than the city itself and a much visited place to get fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers. The Old Strathcona District is also a must see. It is an area of the city that was once the town of Strathcona and dates back to 1891 and features several buildings from this era. The area now entails many pubs, eateries and several fine shops. The city of Edmonton is also home to the Alberta legislatures (it is the provincial capital); the Odyssium (a space and science centre); The Edmonton Art Gallery; The Commonwealth Stadium (where the Edmonton Eskimos Football team plays. They play with the Canadian Football League); The Valley Zoo and the Provincial Museum of Alberta. The city of Edmonton boasts over 2,000 restaurants and offers much choice when dining out. The hotels in the city are top notch and offer all the comforts of home and even a few extras. There are plenty of things to do and see in downtown Edmonton.
A short skip and a hop away is the West Edmonton Mall. This mall is the largest in the world and is truly a sight to see. It offers over 800 shops from the usual that one would expect such as Claires and Sears and truly Canadian shops such as The Bay (formally known as the Hudsons Bay Company); Winners (a fashion must stop for men, women and children)and Tim Hortons (donuts and coffee) as well as funky stores such as April Cornell (clothes for women) to B Sweet (a candy store). The mall also features truly unique stores such as The Mounted Police Outpost (the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and their symbols are the third most recognized in the world following right behind Coca Cola and Mickey Mouse!) and Pride of Kenya (a store that features African arts and other treasures). It is truly a unique place to shop!
Not only a paradise for any shopper, the West Edmonton mall offers so much more than shopping! Travel to the mall, but do not forget your bathing suits! The mall has an amusement park (Galaxyland Amusement Park) that has 25 rides to choose from, all indoors! The mall also has an indoor water park that has water slides and a wave pool! The indoor park also boasts a couple of mini golf courses, an ice skating rink (an official hockey sized rink that the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) occasionally practice on and the mall even has a marine centre that you do not want to miss either! There is also a lot to keep you busy if shopping is not your thing!
The West Edmonton Mall also is home to two fine hotels. One is the West Edmonton Mall Inn and The Fantasyland Hotel and true to its name, it is a fantasy land. This hotel offers rooms that revolve around a theme such as an African Safari or a as an Arabian for a night and with many eating establishments in the mall and in both hotels, you are sure never to go hungry.
If you are planning a trip to visit the largest mall in the world, keep in mind the temperatures of Edmonton. The city has snow from November until March and therefore has temperatures that reflect that. During the summer months, the city reaches a pleasant 20C (70 F) with lows at night in the teens. The winter is very cold, so if you visit during the winter season, you will want to make sure you take plenty of warm outer wear, along with a hat, scarf and mitts.
The city is a great place to visit and especially if you are a shopaholic, the mall should be first on your list!
Cincinnati Is Happening
Over the past few years, Cincinnati has been plagued with negative national publicity. The Cincinnati Riots of 2001 coupled with the multiple killings of African American youth have given a black eye to Cincinnati, especially its downtown area. Shortly after the Cincinnati Riots of 2001, many prominent African American celebrities and leaders canceled their engagements in Cincinnati in the name of a boycott. Some among the list of 'boycotter' were Bill Cosby (comedian and Cosby Show fame) and comedienne and Academy Award winner Whoppie Goldberg.
Things are starting to change here in Cincinnati so do not let the past negative press deter you from visiting the Queen City. While here not only can you take in either a Major League baseball game in Great American Ball Park, you can also walk a few city blocks and partake in the fervor frenzy of a National Football League football game in Paul Brown Stadium. Currently, Cincinnati's professional football team, the Cincinnati Bengals are well on hier way to recapturing the AFC Championships as they did in 1988, and on their way to another appearance at the Super Bowl.
Sports are not the only thing that Cincinnati has going for it. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is unabashedly positioned in between Cincinnati's two professional spots team's stadium. Located on The Banks of the Ohio River, you can meander through this state of the art museum and learn about Cincinnati's role as being the gateway and primary destination for African Americans as they escaped the horrid institution of slavery in the South.
This museum was one of Cincinnati's first instances in its pro-active stance to bring culture to this city. Other attractions, thought not permanent, that you could find here at Cincinnati are its annual MidPoint Music Festival, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati or you may be able to catch the high flying antiques of Cirque de Soleil.
This push towards cultural diversity is nothing new to the downtown area of Cincinnati. The 'Final Friday' (FF) event that has been taking place in the Pendleton neighborhood has been a staple of downtown living for at least the past two decades. Over the years this display of monthly exhibition of artesian expression has spread to other parts of downtown and Over-the-Rhine (OTR) areas to include the downtown business districts and Main Street. This event occurs (as you may know from the name) on the last Friday of every month, from 8pm to 10pm, where art gallery and shops in the downtown keep their doors open later than normal, seducing patrons with free wine and appetizers. I fell in love with this even my first year of college when the parent's of a high-school friend opened an art studio in this area and invited my to my first FF event.
The crowning jewel of Cincinnati and one of the most notable landmarks of downtown is Fountain Square where you will find the Tyler Davidson Fountain. A must see if you are visiting within 50 miles of the area or any area in Greater Cincinnati. Currently, The Square, as it is so affectionately called to those who were born and raised in the Queen City, has been under a major face lift. The last time that The Square was remodeled was in the 70's. Closed for the past several months, The Square is scheduled to re-open October 14, 2006, with a celebration that you should not miss if you are visiting the area. There are many hotels in the downtown area were you can stay to experience the re-opening celebration where the unveiling of the poem, 'I am Cincinnati' written for and read by native Cincinnatian and distinguished author Nikki Giovanni.
The weekend of the re-opening celebration of The Square is a perfect time to visit the city of Cincinnati and experience all of the uniqueness that this city has to offer. At the celebration, there will be performances by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet and the Cincinnati Opera, in addition to the unveiling of the new and improved Tyler Davidson Fountain. Other attractions of this weekend will be performances by OK Go, a band that is mixed between indie, stadium and straight up rock. Nationally known Talib Kweli and the band Los Lobos will also e in attendance for performances.
Things are starting to change here in Cincinnati so do not let the past negative press deter you from visiting the Queen City. While here not only can you take in either a Major League baseball game in Great American Ball Park, you can also walk a few city blocks and partake in the fervor frenzy of a National Football League football game in Paul Brown Stadium. Currently, Cincinnati's professional football team, the Cincinnati Bengals are well on hier way to recapturing the AFC Championships as they did in 1988, and on their way to another appearance at the Super Bowl.
Sports are not the only thing that Cincinnati has going for it. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is unabashedly positioned in between Cincinnati's two professional spots team's stadium. Located on The Banks of the Ohio River, you can meander through this state of the art museum and learn about Cincinnati's role as being the gateway and primary destination for African Americans as they escaped the horrid institution of slavery in the South.
This museum was one of Cincinnati's first instances in its pro-active stance to bring culture to this city. Other attractions, thought not permanent, that you could find here at Cincinnati are its annual MidPoint Music Festival, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati or you may be able to catch the high flying antiques of Cirque de Soleil.
This push towards cultural diversity is nothing new to the downtown area of Cincinnati. The 'Final Friday' (FF) event that has been taking place in the Pendleton neighborhood has been a staple of downtown living for at least the past two decades. Over the years this display of monthly exhibition of artesian expression has spread to other parts of downtown and Over-the-Rhine (OTR) areas to include the downtown business districts and Main Street. This event occurs (as you may know from the name) on the last Friday of every month, from 8pm to 10pm, where art gallery and shops in the downtown keep their doors open later than normal, seducing patrons with free wine and appetizers. I fell in love with this even my first year of college when the parent's of a high-school friend opened an art studio in this area and invited my to my first FF event.
The crowning jewel of Cincinnati and one of the most notable landmarks of downtown is Fountain Square where you will find the Tyler Davidson Fountain. A must see if you are visiting within 50 miles of the area or any area in Greater Cincinnati. Currently, The Square, as it is so affectionately called to those who were born and raised in the Queen City, has been under a major face lift. The last time that The Square was remodeled was in the 70's. Closed for the past several months, The Square is scheduled to re-open October 14, 2006, with a celebration that you should not miss if you are visiting the area. There are many hotels in the downtown area were you can stay to experience the re-opening celebration where the unveiling of the poem, 'I am Cincinnati' written for and read by native Cincinnatian and distinguished author Nikki Giovanni.
The weekend of the re-opening celebration of The Square is a perfect time to visit the city of Cincinnati and experience all of the uniqueness that this city has to offer. At the celebration, there will be performances by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet and the Cincinnati Opera, in addition to the unveiling of the new and improved Tyler Davidson Fountain. Other attractions of this weekend will be performances by OK Go, a band that is mixed between indie, stadium and straight up rock. Nationally known Talib Kweli and the band Los Lobos will also e in attendance for performances.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Travel Woes
By Christina VanGinkel
From drinking water to being stranded in an airport, travel woes are varied. Knowing upfront what some of these things are that can go wrong, is often the best way to avoid such pitfalls in the first place.
Drinking Water No's
If you are traveling a few cities over, or across the globe, avoiding drinking any amount of beverages that are made from un-boiled or un-bottled water can help keep you feeling healthier than if you do. Water is necessary for life, yet it can also harbor disease and germs. Even going from drinking well water to city water, or vice versa, can be enough of a knock on our systems to leave us running to the bathroom every few minutes. If you are flying, stick with bottled water or beverages too. A glass of water from an airline could have potentially come from so many different sources, all depending on where that plane has recently been, it is just not worth the risk. It is important to drink water though, just make sure it is bottled or has been boiled. For long flights, be aware that you can dehydrate rather quickly, so using moisturizers for your skin along with drinking bottled beverages can help you feel overall healthier at the end of the flight.
Stuck in Traffic, Airports, Train Stations and More
Airports, bus or train stations, and even traffic, all have the potential to be backlogged. You might find yourself sitting in a terminal or stuck in traffic for hours longer than you ever imagined. Once, on a car trip to Colorado to visit family, my husband and I, along with two of our three children, ended up in a major backlog of traffic outside of Denver, when a car sheared off the back axels of a semi, and traffic in the area became a congested mess. Life Flight was called in, and the accident victims were soon on their way to help, but cleanup of the accident occurred only after investigators arrived on the scene. Nearly five hours passed before traffic was able to proceed anywhere close to a normal pace. Thankfully, as we were already in the midst of an extended car trip, we had snacks, games, and reading material. I am sure though that many of those around us in other vehicles were not as lucky. A lesson we learned from this was that even if you are taking a short jaunt, if it involves being on an expressway or freeway, where backing up, or turning around are not an option, then take along a few things to pass the time if any sort of lengthy delay should occur.
No room at the Inn
You never want to think about it, but it does occur. You arrive at your destination, and the person behind the counter looks at you and says they have no record of your reservation. Sure, you probably have your credit card that the reservation was reserved under, but by the time, they track it down via that information, a major sized headache can be settling in. Keep all reservation numbers on your person, and if any reservations were made over the phone write down who you talked to and when. While hotel staff is trying to figure it out, tell them you will wait in the bar or restaurant, and inform them that you expect them to pick up the tab while they figure it out, as they are the ones inconveniencing you. I do not suggest that you run up a huge bill, just that you keep comfortable while they straighten their error up.
Medical Information Musts
Be prepared for accidents or other medical emergencies. While no one wants to entertain the idea of being sick or hurt when on vacation, having with you all your medical cards and information on yourself and your travel companions can be a huge advantage. Make sure someone else in your group knows where the information is stored, and in the event, you are traveling alone, be sure to keep a card in your wallet or purse with all identifying information that a caregiver might need to provide you with the best medical attention they can. Insurance cards, allergy information, medication list etc., should all be with you at all times.
From drinking water to being stranded in an airport, travel woes are varied. Knowing upfront what some of these things are that can go wrong, is often the best way to avoid such pitfalls in the first place.
Drinking Water No's
If you are traveling a few cities over, or across the globe, avoiding drinking any amount of beverages that are made from un-boiled or un-bottled water can help keep you feeling healthier than if you do. Water is necessary for life, yet it can also harbor disease and germs. Even going from drinking well water to city water, or vice versa, can be enough of a knock on our systems to leave us running to the bathroom every few minutes. If you are flying, stick with bottled water or beverages too. A glass of water from an airline could have potentially come from so many different sources, all depending on where that plane has recently been, it is just not worth the risk. It is important to drink water though, just make sure it is bottled or has been boiled. For long flights, be aware that you can dehydrate rather quickly, so using moisturizers for your skin along with drinking bottled beverages can help you feel overall healthier at the end of the flight.
Stuck in Traffic, Airports, Train Stations and More
Airports, bus or train stations, and even traffic, all have the potential to be backlogged. You might find yourself sitting in a terminal or stuck in traffic for hours longer than you ever imagined. Once, on a car trip to Colorado to visit family, my husband and I, along with two of our three children, ended up in a major backlog of traffic outside of Denver, when a car sheared off the back axels of a semi, and traffic in the area became a congested mess. Life Flight was called in, and the accident victims were soon on their way to help, but cleanup of the accident occurred only after investigators arrived on the scene. Nearly five hours passed before traffic was able to proceed anywhere close to a normal pace. Thankfully, as we were already in the midst of an extended car trip, we had snacks, games, and reading material. I am sure though that many of those around us in other vehicles were not as lucky. A lesson we learned from this was that even if you are taking a short jaunt, if it involves being on an expressway or freeway, where backing up, or turning around are not an option, then take along a few things to pass the time if any sort of lengthy delay should occur.
No room at the Inn
You never want to think about it, but it does occur. You arrive at your destination, and the person behind the counter looks at you and says they have no record of your reservation. Sure, you probably have your credit card that the reservation was reserved under, but by the time, they track it down via that information, a major sized headache can be settling in. Keep all reservation numbers on your person, and if any reservations were made over the phone write down who you talked to and when. While hotel staff is trying to figure it out, tell them you will wait in the bar or restaurant, and inform them that you expect them to pick up the tab while they figure it out, as they are the ones inconveniencing you. I do not suggest that you run up a huge bill, just that you keep comfortable while they straighten their error up.
Medical Information Musts
Be prepared for accidents or other medical emergencies. While no one wants to entertain the idea of being sick or hurt when on vacation, having with you all your medical cards and information on yourself and your travel companions can be a huge advantage. Make sure someone else in your group knows where the information is stored, and in the event, you are traveling alone, be sure to keep a card in your wallet or purse with all identifying information that a caregiver might need to provide you with the best medical attention they can. Insurance cards, allergy information, medication list etc., should all be with you at all times.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Traveling to the UP
Summer vacations can be the high point of anyone's year. The long and warm summer nights, sipping margaritas on the beach with you loved one. If you are clad den with these miniature copies of yourself than there is no doubt that you would be enjoying the summer no sipping a martini, but frolicking in the surf with them. Conversely, if can also be the down fall of many families. There are far too many stories of family vacations that did everything but bring the siblings, parents and other kinfolk closer together. Can anyone remember the movie "National Lampoon's Summer Vacation"?
One of the most beautiful driving trips of the summer was taken by me as I left the Queen city of Cincinnati and drove 8 hours to the gracious isle of Mackinac. The drive took me through a few of Ohio and Michigan's greatest cities to the meeting place of the Lake Ontario and Lake Michigan. As stated, we start our trip at the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati Ohio. The Great American Ball Park and Paul Brown Stadium behind us, we never look back as we traveled up Interstate 75. We pass the United States' first zoo as we make our way to Dayton Ohio.
I have been to Dayton many times, mostly for the great sports bar called Roosters and the new and innovative gay dance club.... I had never been north of Dayton on interstate 75, It was strange, to say the least, to see how much farmland there is once you get past the city of Dayton. The deterioration of the roadway did not deter my fervor for traveling the open road and seeing the most of Ohio as I could. With two very sleepy friends in the back seat and an over excited one in the passenger seat. I trekked on.
Less then a few hours later (and a multitude of bathroom breaks along the way) we made it to Findley Ohio. You may not think that there is much in this central Ohio city, but Findley boasts being the Flag Capital of the world. What, pret ell, do you think that means? Well, but of course it means that this city has been charged with the patriotic tasks of producing Ol' Glory, the official flag of the United States. Along Interstate 75 you could see why this small city was called this. Everything from a sign stating its Flag name to a statue of a star spangled four legged animal graced the seen along the high way.
Traveling on, the two backseat passengers were wide awake and now graining my nerves, but I kept everything jovial. As we neared Toledo Ohio, the three riders-along were welcomed (I guess more because I had been driving non stop since 8am that morning). We worked our way around the Glass Capital of the world via two separate by-passes. I hindsight, I guess we could have drove straight through the city to see more of Ohio's northern sister city, but we stood steadfast with the Trip-Tick provided to us by AAA and we the recommended route.
Surprisingly, the trip through Michigan was very uneventful. If you call the beautiful wildlife, the picturesque forestry, the vibrant colors found in the landscape and the less than un-perfect lakes and other waterways found in that glorious state to be uneventful. The island of Mackinac and its bridge are the crowning jewels of this oven mitted shaped state. These two pieces of Michigan's land and history are so appropriately named because of their proximity near the northern most point of the state.
All in all, traveling the open highway of interstate 75 through the Buckeye state of Ohio and continuing through Michigan on a clear summer's day is a great way to see both of these majestique states. Make sure that you take your time and that you are not to rushed trying to get to your destination. Looking back on this trip I wish that I had heeded my words so that I could take in some of the sights and attractions that could be found on this trip. Well, there is always a next time. Where will you go on your next trip?
One of the most beautiful driving trips of the summer was taken by me as I left the Queen city of Cincinnati and drove 8 hours to the gracious isle of Mackinac. The drive took me through a few of Ohio and Michigan's greatest cities to the meeting place of the Lake Ontario and Lake Michigan. As stated, we start our trip at the banks of the Ohio River in Cincinnati Ohio. The Great American Ball Park and Paul Brown Stadium behind us, we never look back as we traveled up Interstate 75. We pass the United States' first zoo as we make our way to Dayton Ohio.
I have been to Dayton many times, mostly for the great sports bar called Roosters and the new and innovative gay dance club.... I had never been north of Dayton on interstate 75, It was strange, to say the least, to see how much farmland there is once you get past the city of Dayton. The deterioration of the roadway did not deter my fervor for traveling the open road and seeing the most of Ohio as I could. With two very sleepy friends in the back seat and an over excited one in the passenger seat. I trekked on.
Less then a few hours later (and a multitude of bathroom breaks along the way) we made it to Findley Ohio. You may not think that there is much in this central Ohio city, but Findley boasts being the Flag Capital of the world. What, pret ell, do you think that means? Well, but of course it means that this city has been charged with the patriotic tasks of producing Ol' Glory, the official flag of the United States. Along Interstate 75 you could see why this small city was called this. Everything from a sign stating its Flag name to a statue of a star spangled four legged animal graced the seen along the high way.
Traveling on, the two backseat passengers were wide awake and now graining my nerves, but I kept everything jovial. As we neared Toledo Ohio, the three riders-along were welcomed (I guess more because I had been driving non stop since 8am that morning). We worked our way around the Glass Capital of the world via two separate by-passes. I hindsight, I guess we could have drove straight through the city to see more of Ohio's northern sister city, but we stood steadfast with the Trip-Tick provided to us by AAA and we the recommended route.
Surprisingly, the trip through Michigan was very uneventful. If you call the beautiful wildlife, the picturesque forestry, the vibrant colors found in the landscape and the less than un-perfect lakes and other waterways found in that glorious state to be uneventful. The island of Mackinac and its bridge are the crowning jewels of this oven mitted shaped state. These two pieces of Michigan's land and history are so appropriately named because of their proximity near the northern most point of the state.
All in all, traveling the open highway of interstate 75 through the Buckeye state of Ohio and continuing through Michigan on a clear summer's day is a great way to see both of these majestique states. Make sure that you take your time and that you are not to rushed trying to get to your destination. Looking back on this trip I wish that I had heeded my words so that I could take in some of the sights and attractions that could be found on this trip. Well, there is always a next time. Where will you go on your next trip?
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
A Week In France
The spring has come to France, bit by bit, and I can tell now in the nights that there is warmth in the air and in the personalities that have also been frozen, in a way, throughout the unusual winter we have had here. I find myself with only 2 weeks left of my intensive French classes, and wonder what I will with the month of April, as I have only one class, and that for just 4 hours a week, which means five out of seven days I am ‘sans chose à faire’. But we will see, and I am sure there will be adventures to recount.
I am currently in France with Tony. He was set to arrive on Friday of last week, and I had been anxiously counting the days. When I called him last Thursday I was shocked to hear that one of his flights had been cancelled and he would arrive at the airport in Paris a half hour too late to catch his flight to Pau. He was rather upset that he would be stranded in Paris for more than 10 hours, because the final flight to Pau in the evening would not leave until 6. He does not speak any French, and he had been waiting an awfully long time to come and visit me. The prospect of yet another 10 hours in a stark, lonely airport in a foreign city were not appealing to him.
A long time ago, I learned that what is important in life is not how much money something costs, and what is important in life is not always what is the most logical and 'safe' thing to do. On Thursday night I hopped the night train to Paris and was waiting at CDG airport when Tony's flight arrived. I spend the night shivering on the bottom bunk of a tiny room as the train crept towards Paris.
You can travel between Pau and Paris on a regular train in 6 or 7 hours, perhaps 8, while the TGV takes just 5. However, when one buys a ticket on the night train, one knows it will take the NIGHT. At 9 PM I walked from my house to the train station, and at 11 I boarded the train and used my newly acquired French to ensure I had a place to sleep. The train did not arrive in Paris until 7 AM the following day.
The two people who shared my tiny couchette provided much of my entertainment for the evening. The man was obviously a musician, because he took up one of the top bunks, and his rather large guitar took up the other. He was also obviously a BROODING musician, because he spent the first two hours standing in the corridor watching the French night pass us by. The woman, who was a bit more talkative, perhaps was his REASON for brooding, because although I heard them talking to each other before they entered the room, and they LEFT the train together, they said nothing to each other for the entire journey. While he stood and watched she made some small talk with me before covering her face with her coat and keeping the exact same position for the next 7 hours.
I arrived in Paris with the brooding musician and his lady at about 7 AM. I had not slept a terribly large amount, but I was very excited to be there. Somehow I found my way on the RER, which is the regional train system in Paris, from Austerlitz station where I arrived, to the airport, where Tony did. I had not known much about CDG airport, because when I arrived in Paris I had followed the signs to the train station in the airport and had stayed in that place for 10 hours on my own. It had been easy enough to find, when I had arrived in France, back in January.
I had remembered the 10 hours I spent in the train station at CDG airport, underneath the large signs that announced each train that left and arrived, and I had remembered it well. It had really been my first impression of France, this time around. It had been cold, and it had been lonely, but I knew it would be different this time. The Thursday before Tony arrived I had thought to give him some simple instructions. "The word you are looking for is GARE" I told him, "Follow the signs from your gate to the GARE and meet me underneath the big signs that give arrivals and departures". And that is what he did.
We sat on the floor of the GARE for perhaps an hour, talking, exchanging stories and hugs that seemed to last a day. We had not seen each other in two months, and spent the first few moments remembering each others faces again, and laughing about our travel adventures. After we arranged for Tony's suitcase to travel the same route he would have travelled later that day, we decided to see as much of Paris as we possibly could before the train left for Pau. What does one see in Paris when one has only one day? We navigated the metro system and arrived, of course, at the Eiffel Tower. We didn’t have time to climb it, we had time only to stand underneath it and stare up at the people who HAD the time. We asked some strangers to take a few pictures of us there, in Paris, before we hailed a taxi to take us to Montparnasse station.
The taxi itself was wonderful. The seats were leather and cool black to match the coolness of the afternoon. The driver looked exactly like Kevin Spacey in a turtleneck sweater. He had jazz music playing on the radio, and although it was probably more expensive, he took us the long way to the station, which gave us both a view of the beautiful buildings and history that is Paris. I wished that I had studied Paris more in the three times I had been there, because although all of the buildings looked familiar to my eyes I wasn’t often able to answer Tony’s inquisitive “What’s that?”
From Montparnasse we rode the TGV back to Pau. The return trip for me, less than 20 hours after I had left my apartment, took only 5 hours to complete. The TGV travels about 160 miles an hour at top speed, and it is an amazing experience. Tony and I arrived back in Pau at around 9:30 and took another taxi to my apartment, which was much LESS romantic and much more practical than the one we had taken in Paris.
We have been having a wonderful time here in my town. On Saturday there was a USAC excursion to Basque County, and everyone was excited to meet this person I have been talking so much about. We saw a beautiful town in France, St Jean Peid de Port, and had our lunch at a French Cidery. The cidre was not very good, but the food WAS, and Tony's vegetarian meal was much better looking than mine tasted!
We ended our day at Biarritz, which is at the ocean. I think that I can say walking to the edge of the sea on Saturday was perhaps the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. It was a tiny bit cold, and we could see an amazing storm heading in our direction as we stood with France behind us and eternity before us. Our friends left behind, Tony and I walked to the furthest edge of the pier and wrapped our arms around each other as we gazed at the water. It was rough and cold and horribly wonderful as the spray hit us and matched the rain that we saw coming across the ocean like a velvet curtain you could just barely see through, being pulled across the water and tormenting the waves with its absolute smoothness. The salty air blew in our faces and we had a most private and beautiful romantic moment at the edge of the water.
We made it back to the bus just as the rain began to fall in earnest, and enjoyed the company of friends as we drove back to Pau. That evening I surprised and pleased myself by ordering a pizza on the telephone in French, and not only having the pizza arrive at my house, but having it be exactly what I had ordered. I was very proud of myself for accomplishing this task, and also very glad that Tony had no reason to tease me for screwing it up.
On Sunday, we travelled with friends to Lourdes. A small change in elevation unexpectedly threw us all into about an inch of snow as we stepped off of the platform. Lourdes is a beautiful place. A long time ago, at a Grotto in Lourdes, Bernadette saw the virgin Mary. Since that time, the waters that flow from the grotto have been said to be healing waters.
Tony and I marvelled at not only THIS amazing idea, but at the fact that while the grotto and church itself are very proper and beautiful and sacred, the streets on the WAY to the grotto are full of shops that sell things to capitalize on this idea. We stopped in a few of them, and bought ourselves plastic bottles shaped like Mary in which to bring water from the Grotto to our friends and family. The best part about this excursion, in my opinion, was that the plastic bottles look much more like Aunt Jemima from the syrup, rather than Mary from the Bible.
Liza Kollman
On Sunday night we visited one of my favorite restaurants in Pau, which is rather new. It is called The Mexico, and it is run by a man who once called Bloomington, Minnesota his home. When I first heard this I smiled and said "My mall is there!" When he moved to the US from Mexico, he was granted a type of citizenship, but when he married a French woman, the government would not let them both stay in Minnesota. So here he is, cooking us Mexican food, half a world away from home.
The week has flown by for us here in France. Last night we ate Crepes at the restaurant by the Chateau, and tonight we will cook for our friends. Tomorrow afternoon we will head to London for the weekend. I have booked us yet another hostel, and I know you will all be anxious to hear how that one works out. We will be sure to pay in cash, however, so don’t worry!
A Weekend In London
I have never lived in a place where one could hop a plane to London for the weekend. I didn't even realize how possible that was! Our flight cost each of us 60 euros. For any of you who want a conversion, well, you will have to figure it out for yourself, as I have found that in order to protect my mental health it is best to forget dollars even exist.
We flew Ryanair out of Pau on Friday afternoon. There is a flight from Pau to London every day, and one that returns as well. Ryanair was an experience in itself. The airline is extremely cheap but I felt very secure and safe. Of course, there is no drink or food service of any kind. They have a menu that you can pick up when you enter the plane, and if you wish, you can spend Euros or Pounds and buy yourself something to eat or drink.
It is very expensive, and not very good. The airline is also constantly selling you things. Flight attendants will come through the aisles offering perfume and jewelry, as well as scratch cards that you can only play in international airspace. It is most annoying, unless one has some headphones to keep themselves occupied.
At any rate, the flight lasted just over 2 hours, but because of the time difference we arrived in London just over an hour after we had left Pau. My friends and I then paid 12 pounds to take a bus to the center of London, where we could find an underground station and our hostel.
The 6 of us stayed at a place called the Dover Hostel and Bar in London. After what seemed like an hour checking in and signing forms and paying money, we were escorted to a simple but nice room with three sets of bunk beds and one window. We didn’t ask if the sheets had been changed, we just smiled and threw our bags on the bunks, assuming they had been. (I tried desperately NOT to think of the time a friend of mine, whose name I will not mention, got fleas from a hostel bed.....)
The hostel was actually very nice. The bathrooms were disgusting of course, and I made a snap judgment call that I would be cleaner if I spent the weekend WITHOUT showering. On Friday night we took the underground down to Piccadilly circus and stared at the lights before finding a great Mexican restaurant at which to eat in Leicester square.
On Saturday we did almost everything you could do for a day in London. We took a hop-on hop-off bus tour that let us stop at all of the places those of us who had never been to London should see. We saw the London Bridge and the Tower Bridge and took a walking tour that led is to Buckingham Palace in time for the changing of the guards. We went to the Tower of London, saw St Paul’s Cathedral, and ended our afternoon at Madame Trousseau’s wax museum. How much fun!
At first, I was a bit overcome by the whole operation. I had envisioned a museum with different characters standing in rows that you could take your picture with. However; it was not like this. The place was set up with many different rooms that one could walk through, and each room had a theme. The first room was by far the most interesting and also the strangest! It was set up like a club or a party in some large city. The statues were standing and sitting in various places around the area, and people were milling about with them, taking pictures and standing in groups talking. The lights were very low, and because of the set up, many times you didn’t know that someone was real until they moved, and when you gazed across the room and your eyes fell on a group of people, it might take you several moments to realize there were also FAKE people in that group. It was crazy!
However; I DID get my picture taken with lots of famous people! In the next room, I have pictures of myself being taught by Ghandi and, my personal favorite, mooning GW. (of course, its only a PANTOMIME moon, in case any of you (or members of the CIA attracted to this email because of the sudden mention of our president) were wondering).
After the museum, we visited a half price ticket booth and found tickets to the Reduced Shakespeare Company's "Complete Works of William Shakespeare - abridged" which was a VERY funny play. The three American and Canadian actors performed the plays of WS all at once, and in a very funny manner. The three actors were hilarious, and I laughed till I cried several times. And get this - they mentioned something that nearly all of you are familiar with! During one portion they said "Its time to take a break from reality, from John Thune and Jennifer Lopez" It took me several moments to realize what I had heard!
I think its amazing what a small world it is that I can go all the way to London and hear the name of that guy! John Thune, what an amazing thing to have heard so far from home. He is the senator who won over the head of Tom Dashcle, the Senate Minority Leader. I have often shaken my head at the stupidity of my home state, who gave up the power that was a Senate minority leader for a newcomer, no matter how his conservative views might line up with their own. However, that is for another email!
Also, during a part in the play which included the recitations of several elements of tragedies, one line was read that blew me away. The man looked out into the crowd and for a moment seemed to even catch my eye, as he proclaimed: "49 million idiots re-elect the VILLAGE idiot" and again I had to laugh until my sides hurt. Later that night we went to a discothèque and even later we returned to the hostel. The trip home on Sunday afternoon had us all quite tired.
It IS a small world; isn’t it? The comment about John Thune was only part of it! Earlier in the day, during our walking tour the guide was asking members of the group where they were from. Two ladies in the back shouted out "South Dakota!" and I shouted back "Hey! I'm from South Dakota!" It turns out that one was from Rapid and one from Sioux Falls. I wish I had had time to ask more, but the ladies disappeared from the group before I could find them to inquire as to why they were in London and figure out if we knew anyone in common. For I know that we would have! Isn’t that just how the world works?
You can be an ocean away from home and hear news of your own politics. You can be in a group of people looking at old statues and awaiting the Changing of the Guard and hear people shout that they are from your state. You can come halfway around the world and catch someone’s eye as they talk about the president in perhaps the same manner that you would have. The Earth might cover an awfully big expanse of space, but it is really very small when you think about it. The best part is that we never know. We never know who shares our views or who might be cousins with the neighbor up the road.
We never know when we will run into people who went to our school, or who took a random hike through our neighborhood. The best thing that we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for the coincidences that serve to show us that we are all related. We are all cousins, as my great grandmother used to tell my mom. And when we visit each other, no matter how far we go or what relatives we see, we are cousining. Sometimes we are even cousining when we don’t mean to.
Four Things To Try On An Adventure Sports Holiday
By Simon Woodhouse
For many people, lying on a beach in the sun is all they want from a holiday. Perhaps throw in a bit of shopping, a few day trips, the chance to sample some local cuisine and they're happy. There's nothing wrong with that, each to his own. However, if you think one beach looks very much like the next, shopping is torture and coach trips to ancient ruins are too much like something you did at school, then perhaps you want a bit more adventure. Perhaps you want an adventure holiday.
Adventure doesn't have to mean danger, but adventure holidays and dangerous sports seem to go hand in hand. They also seem to take place in some of the most scenic locations around the world, which means at least you have something nice to look at whilst your waiting to jump/dive/zoom into whatever form of danger you've chosen. Here are four activities that might help to make an adventure holiday more adventurous.
Bungee jumping has been around for a while now, and though in its modern form it started in the late 70's, its roots go back much further than that. On the Polynesian island of Pentecost (part of the island group known as Vanuatu and formerly called the New Hembrides), young men perform a coming-of-age ritual that involves diving headfirst from an 80-foot tall platform made of bamboo. The only thing that stops these brave young souls from killing themselves is a liana vine tied to their ankles. In 1986, a canny New Zealand man set up the first commercial bungee jumping business, and started charging people for the privilege of throwing themselves off a bridge. South Africa now boasts the highest commercial bungee jump. This takes place from the Bloukrans Bridge, located on the border of the Eastern and Western Cape. Here you can plunge straight down for 700 feet, before the bungee cord twangs you back up again. And kudos to you if you do it.
Necessity is the mother of invention, and this saying is never more accurate than when applied to Bill Hamilton, a boat builder from New Zealand. Faced with the challenge of using a motorboat in very shallow rivers, he invented the jet boat, a craft that's driven forward without the use of a propeller. Not only can jet boats operate in really shallow water, but they're also very fast and extremely manoeuvrable. Taking this vehicle and putting it to good use, a company called Shotover Jet offer jet boat rides along the Shotover River in New Zealand. Marketed as 'thrill therapy', the ride specialises in blasting the boat through a narrow canyon of sheer rock walls. Skilled pilots take the boats to within touching distance of the rock, whilst at the same time performing 360 degree spins. Life jackets are mandatory, no video cameras are allowed (they tend to end up in the river) and pregnant women are strongly advised against riding.
Whilst you're in New Zealand, why not have a go at fly by wire? This is a cross between a ski resort chair lift and a propeller driven missile. Victims, I mean riders, are strapped face down into what looks like a small rocket with a large, enclosed propeller on the back. High overhead, a series of 1200-foot long cables span from one side of a steep edged valley to the other. A single cable hangs down from these and is attached to the middle of the missile. Then the horizontal wires are tightened, and the missile is lifted upward with the propeller going. The rider has control of a throttle and a steering bar, both of which are then used to hurtle the missile around the valley as it dangles from the overhead cables. Just how fast it goes is up to the rider, but it can reach speeds of over 100 mph, and pull three G. This whole set-up is the fastest tethered ride in the world, and also an experience unique to New Zealand.
Perhaps speed isn't your thing, but you still fancy a bit of danger. How about swimming with sharks, but not just any old shark, the heavyweight champion of teeth and fins - the Great White. This type of holiday has been running for a few years now, around Cape Town in South Africa. Though it's advertised as swimming with Great Whites, there is a cage involved, but you go in the cage, the cage goes in the water, and the shark's in the water. Depending on which operator you use, there's also a chance to swim with aquarium sharks, and scuba dive without a cage in the presence of such happy little fellows as the Tiger Shark and the Hammerhead. As far as the Great Whites are concerned, nothing is guaranteed, which means to say they may not show up on the day you're due to take the plunge. However, the tour operators know what they're doing, so seeing a shark of one sort or another is more than likely.
These are just a few adventure/dangerous sports that can help to make a vacation just that little bit more special. You could also try white-water rafting, tandem skydiving or eating food purchased from a street vender in New Delhi.
For many people, lying on a beach in the sun is all they want from a holiday. Perhaps throw in a bit of shopping, a few day trips, the chance to sample some local cuisine and they're happy. There's nothing wrong with that, each to his own. However, if you think one beach looks very much like the next, shopping is torture and coach trips to ancient ruins are too much like something you did at school, then perhaps you want a bit more adventure. Perhaps you want an adventure holiday.
Adventure doesn't have to mean danger, but adventure holidays and dangerous sports seem to go hand in hand. They also seem to take place in some of the most scenic locations around the world, which means at least you have something nice to look at whilst your waiting to jump/dive/zoom into whatever form of danger you've chosen. Here are four activities that might help to make an adventure holiday more adventurous.
Bungee jumping has been around for a while now, and though in its modern form it started in the late 70's, its roots go back much further than that. On the Polynesian island of Pentecost (part of the island group known as Vanuatu and formerly called the New Hembrides), young men perform a coming-of-age ritual that involves diving headfirst from an 80-foot tall platform made of bamboo. The only thing that stops these brave young souls from killing themselves is a liana vine tied to their ankles. In 1986, a canny New Zealand man set up the first commercial bungee jumping business, and started charging people for the privilege of throwing themselves off a bridge. South Africa now boasts the highest commercial bungee jump. This takes place from the Bloukrans Bridge, located on the border of the Eastern and Western Cape. Here you can plunge straight down for 700 feet, before the bungee cord twangs you back up again. And kudos to you if you do it.
Necessity is the mother of invention, and this saying is never more accurate than when applied to Bill Hamilton, a boat builder from New Zealand. Faced with the challenge of using a motorboat in very shallow rivers, he invented the jet boat, a craft that's driven forward without the use of a propeller. Not only can jet boats operate in really shallow water, but they're also very fast and extremely manoeuvrable. Taking this vehicle and putting it to good use, a company called Shotover Jet offer jet boat rides along the Shotover River in New Zealand. Marketed as 'thrill therapy', the ride specialises in blasting the boat through a narrow canyon of sheer rock walls. Skilled pilots take the boats to within touching distance of the rock, whilst at the same time performing 360 degree spins. Life jackets are mandatory, no video cameras are allowed (they tend to end up in the river) and pregnant women are strongly advised against riding.
Whilst you're in New Zealand, why not have a go at fly by wire? This is a cross between a ski resort chair lift and a propeller driven missile. Victims, I mean riders, are strapped face down into what looks like a small rocket with a large, enclosed propeller on the back. High overhead, a series of 1200-foot long cables span from one side of a steep edged valley to the other. A single cable hangs down from these and is attached to the middle of the missile. Then the horizontal wires are tightened, and the missile is lifted upward with the propeller going. The rider has control of a throttle and a steering bar, both of which are then used to hurtle the missile around the valley as it dangles from the overhead cables. Just how fast it goes is up to the rider, but it can reach speeds of over 100 mph, and pull three G. This whole set-up is the fastest tethered ride in the world, and also an experience unique to New Zealand.
Perhaps speed isn't your thing, but you still fancy a bit of danger. How about swimming with sharks, but not just any old shark, the heavyweight champion of teeth and fins - the Great White. This type of holiday has been running for a few years now, around Cape Town in South Africa. Though it's advertised as swimming with Great Whites, there is a cage involved, but you go in the cage, the cage goes in the water, and the shark's in the water. Depending on which operator you use, there's also a chance to swim with aquarium sharks, and scuba dive without a cage in the presence of such happy little fellows as the Tiger Shark and the Hammerhead. As far as the Great Whites are concerned, nothing is guaranteed, which means to say they may not show up on the day you're due to take the plunge. However, the tour operators know what they're doing, so seeing a shark of one sort or another is more than likely.
These are just a few adventure/dangerous sports that can help to make a vacation just that little bit more special. You could also try white-water rafting, tandem skydiving or eating food purchased from a street vender in New Delhi.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Windsor Castle
By Simon Woodhouse
Situated on the outskirts of London, Windsor Castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world. It's also quite old, with the site having originally served as a base for William the Conqueror nearly a thousand years ago. Being made of wood, the structure William built has long since disappeared, but the strategic importance of the area wasn't lost on subsequent monarchs, many of who oversaw Windsor's numerous face-lifts and expansions.
In 1154, King Henry II built the first stone wall around the castle, part of which has survived, albeit very changed, until today. Being in such a strategic location - guarding the city of London from the west, the castle often came under attack. King Henry III repaired a substantial amount of damage in 1216, after the building had been besieged and assaulted by disgruntled English barons. Not long after this the Curfew Tower was built, a structure still visible today. For quite a while thereafter the castle didn't change very much, until in 1350 King Edward III indulged himself. He knocked down everything accept the Curfew Tower, and rebuilt from scratch. Twenty-four years later the job was done, at least for the time being.
St George's chapel, probably one of the most famous parts of the castle, has been rebuilt and subsequently fallen down again, many times over the years. In 1475, King Edward IV decided to really make a good job of it, and started a gothic style structure so grand it became more like a cathedral than a chapel. Though it fell to Henry VIII to finish the job fifty years later, it was well worth the effort, as the chapel turned out to be a magnificent building.
As different monarchs came and went, the castle's popularity changed too. Seen as a bleak, unwelcoming place by some kings and queens, it wasn't until 1660 and the reign of Charles II, that Windsor once again had a face-lift. The Palace of Versailles was also being built around this time, and some of Windsor's layout was modelled on the French palace. But following Charles II death, the castle fell out of favour once more and slipped into a state of disrepair. Then in 1804, George III needed somewhere to house himself, his wife and their thirteen children, so Windsor became a working castle once more. A few years, later George IV persuaded Parliament to give him 300,000 pounds, which he used to revamp Windsor in the most extensive building programme of the castle's long history.
Queen Victoria spent a lot of time at Windsor, and used her power and influence to have several public roads rerouted, thus allowing the castle grounds to be used exclusively by the royal family. The current Queen of England, Elizabeth II, uses Windsor as her principle weekend retreat. In 1992, fire severely damaged a large part of the castle, but all the destruction has since been repaired, the funds for which (thirty seven million pounds) came largely from the Queen's own pocket.
Today Windsor Castle is one of Britain's leading tourist attractions. Covering thirteen acres, the castle allows visitors to see where past and present monarchs live. The British Royal Family have always been lovers of fine art, and much of their collection can be seen in the State Apartments. Paintings hanging there include works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, Gainsborough and a very famous triple portrait of Charles I by Sir Anthony van Dyck. A collection of armor is also on display there. Besides the artwork and the armor, the apartments are magnificent chambers within their own right. A palpable sense of majesty hangs in the air, reinforced by the sort of furniture and decor you'd expect to find in a royal palace. Sumptuous would probably be the best word to describe wants on show.
St George's Chapel is open to the public six days a week, but closed on Sundays for services to be held. Besides being a truly glorious structure inside and out, the chapel is also the last resting place of ten English monarchs, including Henry the VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour. The chapel is also the chapel of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, Britain's highest Order of Chivalry. Pomp and ceremony still play a part in everyday life at Windsor, with the Changing of the Guard taking place at 11am every day, accept on Sundays.
Besides the apartments and the chapel, the castle itself makes for an impressive spectacle, both from within its walls, and outside in the grounds. For an excellent photo opportunity, the Long Walk that leads up to the castle from the south is a must. Created as part of Charles II restoration work, the approach is three miles long and lined with Chestnut trees. The castle dominates the skyline at the end of the Long Walk, and this gives the visitor a truly impressive perspective of its grandness.
Even people not particularly interested in British history will still enjoy a visit to Windsor Castle. The atmosphere inside and out is one of majesty. It's almost as if the building's history is a tangible thing in its own right, something that can be felt as well as seen. And knowing just a fraction of the castle's past makes any visit that much more enjoyable.
Situated on the outskirts of London, Windsor Castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world. It's also quite old, with the site having originally served as a base for William the Conqueror nearly a thousand years ago. Being made of wood, the structure William built has long since disappeared, but the strategic importance of the area wasn't lost on subsequent monarchs, many of who oversaw Windsor's numerous face-lifts and expansions.
In 1154, King Henry II built the first stone wall around the castle, part of which has survived, albeit very changed, until today. Being in such a strategic location - guarding the city of London from the west, the castle often came under attack. King Henry III repaired a substantial amount of damage in 1216, after the building had been besieged and assaulted by disgruntled English barons. Not long after this the Curfew Tower was built, a structure still visible today. For quite a while thereafter the castle didn't change very much, until in 1350 King Edward III indulged himself. He knocked down everything accept the Curfew Tower, and rebuilt from scratch. Twenty-four years later the job was done, at least for the time being.
St George's chapel, probably one of the most famous parts of the castle, has been rebuilt and subsequently fallen down again, many times over the years. In 1475, King Edward IV decided to really make a good job of it, and started a gothic style structure so grand it became more like a cathedral than a chapel. Though it fell to Henry VIII to finish the job fifty years later, it was well worth the effort, as the chapel turned out to be a magnificent building.
As different monarchs came and went, the castle's popularity changed too. Seen as a bleak, unwelcoming place by some kings and queens, it wasn't until 1660 and the reign of Charles II, that Windsor once again had a face-lift. The Palace of Versailles was also being built around this time, and some of Windsor's layout was modelled on the French palace. But following Charles II death, the castle fell out of favour once more and slipped into a state of disrepair. Then in 1804, George III needed somewhere to house himself, his wife and their thirteen children, so Windsor became a working castle once more. A few years, later George IV persuaded Parliament to give him 300,000 pounds, which he used to revamp Windsor in the most extensive building programme of the castle's long history.
Queen Victoria spent a lot of time at Windsor, and used her power and influence to have several public roads rerouted, thus allowing the castle grounds to be used exclusively by the royal family. The current Queen of England, Elizabeth II, uses Windsor as her principle weekend retreat. In 1992, fire severely damaged a large part of the castle, but all the destruction has since been repaired, the funds for which (thirty seven million pounds) came largely from the Queen's own pocket.
Today Windsor Castle is one of Britain's leading tourist attractions. Covering thirteen acres, the castle allows visitors to see where past and present monarchs live. The British Royal Family have always been lovers of fine art, and much of their collection can be seen in the State Apartments. Paintings hanging there include works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, Gainsborough and a very famous triple portrait of Charles I by Sir Anthony van Dyck. A collection of armor is also on display there. Besides the artwork and the armor, the apartments are magnificent chambers within their own right. A palpable sense of majesty hangs in the air, reinforced by the sort of furniture and decor you'd expect to find in a royal palace. Sumptuous would probably be the best word to describe wants on show.
St George's Chapel is open to the public six days a week, but closed on Sundays for services to be held. Besides being a truly glorious structure inside and out, the chapel is also the last resting place of ten English monarchs, including Henry the VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour. The chapel is also the chapel of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, Britain's highest Order of Chivalry. Pomp and ceremony still play a part in everyday life at Windsor, with the Changing of the Guard taking place at 11am every day, accept on Sundays.
Besides the apartments and the chapel, the castle itself makes for an impressive spectacle, both from within its walls, and outside in the grounds. For an excellent photo opportunity, the Long Walk that leads up to the castle from the south is a must. Created as part of Charles II restoration work, the approach is three miles long and lined with Chestnut trees. The castle dominates the skyline at the end of the Long Walk, and this gives the visitor a truly impressive perspective of its grandness.
Even people not particularly interested in British history will still enjoy a visit to Windsor Castle. The atmosphere inside and out is one of majesty. It's almost as if the building's history is a tangible thing in its own right, something that can be felt as well as seen. And knowing just a fraction of the castle's past makes any visit that much more enjoyable.
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