My license expired last week. I didn't mind so much that I was driving around with an expired license because I couldn't find time to devote to an 18 hour visit to the DMV, I just knew I had to do it before Christmas Eve when they closed because I needed an updated license to get through security at the airport. At least I figured I did.
I figured correctly. What I did not figure correctly was that laws had not changed since my last license was issued and you no longer walk out of the NC DMV with a little plastic card confirming to everyone your height, age, and that you are who you say you are. Nope. Now you walk out with a piece of paper that serves as a temporary license until your real one arrives in the mail in 10-12 business days.
It actually took awhile for it to sink in that now I had no valid ID for airport security. I was able to retain my old license so I thought, 'eh, maybe this'll work after all.' But a quick Google search and my original figuring was confirmed - an expired ID is no good.
The official statement on the TSA website is "If you lose your primary ID or it has expired, TSA may accept other forms of ID to help verify your identity." Not entirely helpful. The next FAQ is what if an ID is lost during travel. In that case (and I assume in the case that you know exactly where your expired license is) you will need:
- Two forms of ID (social security card, birth certificate, marriage license, credit card, etc.) containing the name of the passenger
- One of the two forms of ID must have one of the following: date of birth, address, gender, or a photo
The website then goes on to say "If TSA can confirm the passenger’s identity, they may enter the secured area, but they could be subject to additional screening." That sentence contains an if, a may, and a could. So vague. There's also a bit about using "publicly available databases." So I don't really know.
Bottom line - be sure you have an up-to-date form of ID. For what counts as an ID, visit here.
Luckily, I remembered I have a passport. First domestic trip with a passport!
Monday, December 23, 2013
Monday, October 28, 2013
Travel Essentials
Everyone has certain things that they can't leave without when going on a trip. Of course things like phone chargers, socks, a book...but there are some things that make travel easier that you might not think of. Here's what I always like to have when I travel.
Empty Laundry Bag -
If your'e staying at a hotel you can usually grab a plastic laundry bag out of the closet and throw your dirty clothes in it. But to always have with me, I use a fabric bag from a dollar store. Keeps my clean clothes away from my dirty ones, and makes unpacking much easier. Laundry bag straight to the laundry room!
Hobo Bag and/or Wristlet -
Wisps -
These little water-less toothbrushes are perfect for overnight flights. If you really didn't want to get up and go to the bathroom, you could actually brush your teeth in your seat. They give you just enough freshness to feel a little human again during a long haul - by air, sea, or road.
Headphones -
The reason is fairly obvious, but I go for headphones instead of ear buds because they block out more background noise, especially on a plane. But whatever you're using to hook up and listen, bring your own. Some airlines still charge. Plus, even if you don't want to listen to music or watch tv, headphones can save you from a chatty neighbor.
Bandanna -
There are a ton of good reasons to have a bandanna around. If it's hot outside it makes a good forehead mopper, ya know, for sweat. Bandanna's are easy to tie around your wrist if you don't have pockets. You can use it to tie back hair, or as a headband. If you were really desperate you could use it to make a tourniquet. Or rob a bank (not advised). Maybe create a make-shift, literal hobo bag. Sky's the limit.
What do you always have to pack??
If your'e staying at a hotel you can usually grab a plastic laundry bag out of the closet and throw your dirty clothes in it. But to always have with me, I use a fabric bag from a dollar store. Keeps my clean clothes away from my dirty ones, and makes unpacking much easier. Laundry bag straight to the laundry room!
Hobo Bag and/or Wristlet -
If I don't need to carry much beyond cash and my phone then it's wristlet time.
If I'm out and about in the city for the day then I ditch the purse and the wristlet for a hobo bag. It fits all my stuff, plus any little things I buy that I don't want to carry around separately. I'm less likely to set a hobo bag down and lost it if the strap is across my body, plus in large crowds I can move it to the front of my body to keep an eye on it.
Wisps -These little water-less toothbrushes are perfect for overnight flights. If you really didn't want to get up and go to the bathroom, you could actually brush your teeth in your seat. They give you just enough freshness to feel a little human again during a long haul - by air, sea, or road.
Headphones -The reason is fairly obvious, but I go for headphones instead of ear buds because they block out more background noise, especially on a plane. But whatever you're using to hook up and listen, bring your own. Some airlines still charge. Plus, even if you don't want to listen to music or watch tv, headphones can save you from a chatty neighbor.
Bandanna - There are a ton of good reasons to have a bandanna around. If it's hot outside it makes a good forehead mopper, ya know, for sweat. Bandanna's are easy to tie around your wrist if you don't have pockets. You can use it to tie back hair, or as a headband. If you were really desperate you could use it to make a tourniquet. Or rob a bank (not advised). Maybe create a make-shift, literal hobo bag. Sky's the limit.
What do you always have to pack??
Saturday, October 5, 2013
A Shutdown Government is Bad for Travel
You may or may not have actually noticed anything different going on in your day-to-day life in America, but you probably do know that our government is "shut down." Well wait, just in case you aren't aware I feel I should put in a brief update, since I may have totally just freaked someone out, ya know?
Those who sit up on Capitol Hill and spend our money actually have to pass laws on how to spend that money. And they can't seem to agree on a spending bill, which really comes down to the inability to agree on whether to provide funding for the Affordable Care Act. So since they can't agree on how to spend the money and what to spend it on, they can't spend it at all. Which means suspending all government jobs (except for the exceptions of 'essential' employees, ie: those involved in national security, postal offices, etc.).
Anyway, this blog isn't a spot for debating which political party is to blame for this shut down or what it means in depth, it's to discuss what it means for travel. Because it actually means pretty big things.
My first bit of travel advice during this shut down would be to not visit Washington DC. For me, DC holds a lot of appeal as a travel destination because once you're there so many activities are free. They're free because they're government funded, which means all of their doors are locked right now. All of the Smithsonian Museums and the Zoo, the National Archives, memorials are fenced in and closed (Lincoln, WWII, Vietnam). Plus, aside from them all being free, aren't they the main attractions? Not the past few days they aren't.
If you are in DC, it's not to say there's nothing to do. There are plenty of other options, just be prepared to pay for some of it. Here's a brief list of things you can do in DC during the shutdown to ensure you still have a fun and memorable vacation. You can also just Google to see what is open and what is closed, or get more out-of-the-box ideas on how to spend your DC time.
Even thought the government lives in DC, it isn't even remotely just DC that is affected by the shutdown. National Parks across the country are shut down, closed to visitors, temporarily out of business. Visitors staying in parks when the shutdown began were given 48 hours to vacate, packing up their camps and RVs and getting out of dodge. So at this point, no one out there is enjoying Yellowstone, Yosemite, or any other American National Park. No one's taking in the grand views of the Grand Canyon, despite the Governor's offer to re-open the park with state money. South Dakota's Governor was also rebuked in an effort to re-open Mount Rushmore.
All told 401 sites throughout the country have been closed - Independence Hall in Philly, the Statue of Liberty, battle fields, historic homes...on and on. Here's a long and full list of the contingency plans for government funded agencies and which of them are open or closed.
What the shut down does not affect is air travel/security or public transportation in cities such as metros. You may or may not be able to get a passport right now if you need one, but chances are not good. You can also enter or leave the country, as customs areas are open.
While we're talking about leaving the country, our government being shut down could also put a cramp in your plans over in Europe. American Military cemeteries overseas are closed, such as the Normandy American Cemetery and 23 other cemeteries. But consulates and embassies are still functioning...for now.
We're all hoping the government shutdown will end soon and that travel life can get back to normal (plus everything else!). But if you are planning to travel check and double check your plans. Make sure what you're wanting to see is open and functioning and then if it's not try and find something else that's fun to do. Good luck!
Those who sit up on Capitol Hill and spend our money actually have to pass laws on how to spend that money. And they can't seem to agree on a spending bill, which really comes down to the inability to agree on whether to provide funding for the Affordable Care Act. So since they can't agree on how to spend the money and what to spend it on, they can't spend it at all. Which means suspending all government jobs (except for the exceptions of 'essential' employees, ie: those involved in national security, postal offices, etc.).
Anyway, this blog isn't a spot for debating which political party is to blame for this shut down or what it means in depth, it's to discuss what it means for travel. Because it actually means pretty big things.
My first bit of travel advice during this shut down would be to not visit Washington DC. For me, DC holds a lot of appeal as a travel destination because once you're there so many activities are free. They're free because they're government funded, which means all of their doors are locked right now. All of the Smithsonian Museums and the Zoo, the National Archives, memorials are fenced in and closed (Lincoln, WWII, Vietnam). Plus, aside from them all being free, aren't they the main attractions? Not the past few days they aren't.
If you are in DC, it's not to say there's nothing to do. There are plenty of other options, just be prepared to pay for some of it. Here's a brief list of things you can do in DC during the shutdown to ensure you still have a fun and memorable vacation. You can also just Google to see what is open and what is closed, or get more out-of-the-box ideas on how to spend your DC time.
Even thought the government lives in DC, it isn't even remotely just DC that is affected by the shutdown. National Parks across the country are shut down, closed to visitors, temporarily out of business. Visitors staying in parks when the shutdown began were given 48 hours to vacate, packing up their camps and RVs and getting out of dodge. So at this point, no one out there is enjoying Yellowstone, Yosemite, or any other American National Park. No one's taking in the grand views of the Grand Canyon, despite the Governor's offer to re-open the park with state money. South Dakota's Governor was also rebuked in an effort to re-open Mount Rushmore.
All told 401 sites throughout the country have been closed - Independence Hall in Philly, the Statue of Liberty, battle fields, historic homes...on and on. Here's a long and full list of the contingency plans for government funded agencies and which of them are open or closed.
What the shut down does not affect is air travel/security or public transportation in cities such as metros. You may or may not be able to get a passport right now if you need one, but chances are not good. You can also enter or leave the country, as customs areas are open.
While we're talking about leaving the country, our government being shut down could also put a cramp in your plans over in Europe. American Military cemeteries overseas are closed, such as the Normandy American Cemetery and 23 other cemeteries. But consulates and embassies are still functioning...for now.
We're all hoping the government shutdown will end soon and that travel life can get back to normal (plus everything else!). But if you are planning to travel check and double check your plans. Make sure what you're wanting to see is open and functioning and then if it's not try and find something else that's fun to do. Good luck!
Sunday, August 25, 2013
West Virginia: Camping & White Water Rafting
West Virginia's motto, Wild and Wonderful, is pretty accurate. Miles and miles can be driven without seeing a single building, nothing but trees and rivers and beauty. So it's no wonder that it's a center for outdoor activity and adventure.
My adventure took place at New & Gauley River Adventures in Lansing - a campground offering fun from white water rafting to horseback riding. We camped in a great little area with a picnic table and fire pit, and plenty of room for our tent and whatever else. Camping starts at just $7 and tents were available to rent (but get there before 5 or so or tents aren't available...then again there's a Wal-Mart near by if you uh, forget your tent, arrive after 5, and have to buy a tent...no need for me to explain why I know all that). There was a nice bath house close by, although most of the time we took the truck up from our campsite to the bathhouse.
If you're not into camping 3 cabins are available starting at $100 a night. I really enjoyed the camping except for the noise of the nearby highway, which certainly cannot be avoided. Onsite is also a pub and grill, but I think food needs to be ordered when you reserve your nights, and a lively little burrito place is right next to that.
The New River (full-day) white water rafting adventure started at 9 am. Other trips are available, including an express trip down the New River, and trips down the Gauley River at different times throughout the year. After a quick instructional session, and picking up our PFDs (personal flotation device), helmets, and oars we boarded a school bus with rafts in tow and headed on a thirty minute ride to the starting site on the New River. Then we were off.
The first half of the day was pretty tame. Lots of flat water with a couple of rapids thrown in. Our first good rapid was called Surprise, and it was exactly that. From afar, and even right up at it, it looked like just a little wave. No idea about the huge drop right before the wave until you were in it. Yee haw!
There was a swimming rapid, meaning we got to jump off the boat and float along. That was nice. Good time to cool off, and not as hard to get back in the raft as one would think. Mostly because it's just someone in the raft grabbing your life jacket and heaving you back up. Around noon we pulled off to a sandy area to have lunch. And I gotta say, it was great! All the makings for sandwiches, fruit, dip, potato and macaroni salad, cookies! There were beautiful butterflies all over the beach and a turtle even found its way up to us.
After lunch the river picked up. Way less calm water, way more rapids. The river was the highest it had every been so some of the class 5 rapids were actually 5+. There were several class 5 and a few 4 and 3. Another swimming rapid, which was a little more intense than the previous one. We also pulled aside to a jumping rock. Ya know from the boat it didn't look that high, even though I'm pretty sure they said it was 18 feet. They also said once we climbed up we had to jump, it would be too dangerous to climb back down the rocks. I was hesitant but forced myself to climb up knowing I'd have to jump. From the top it was way higher, dizzying a little bit. But off I went!
No one from our boat fell out, the boat didn't tip over, and it was just a lot of exciting fun. Our guide, Perkins, made the trip a lot of fun as well. He taught us about the coal mining towns that used to be along the river, plus a lot about the river itself. I'd recommend asking for him as a guide for sure!
Someone was along the bank of the river taking pictures too, which were available for sale back at the offices. Or you could order them online at a later time. The trip ended right below the New River Gorge River. The longest in the western hemisphere and second tallest, second to the new bridge at the Hoover Dam. Over 3,000 feet long and over 800 feet above the river. We were told the bridge was a 50 year design...meaning it was designed to last 50 years. A little short-sighted if you ask me. The bridge was finished in 1977...I'll do the math for you...that means it should last until 2027. We have a bit
New and Gauley River Adventures also offers horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and snowshoeing. And if you're really looking for some high adrenaline rafting try the Upper Gauley trip, where rafting experience is required and the age limit starts at 16. You can try Duckie or kayaks on the New River as well. The company offers several package options and even overnight or multi day trips. I'm sure you'll find exactly what it is you want to do at River Adventures.
 |
| Our campsite |
If you're not into camping 3 cabins are available starting at $100 a night. I really enjoyed the camping except for the noise of the nearby highway, which certainly cannot be avoided. Onsite is also a pub and grill, but I think food needs to be ordered when you reserve your nights, and a lively little burrito place is right next to that.
The New River (full-day) white water rafting adventure started at 9 am. Other trips are available, including an express trip down the New River, and trips down the Gauley River at different times throughout the year. After a quick instructional session, and picking up our PFDs (personal flotation device), helmets, and oars we boarded a school bus with rafts in tow and headed on a thirty minute ride to the starting site on the New River. Then we were off.
The first half of the day was pretty tame. Lots of flat water with a couple of rapids thrown in. Our first good rapid was called Surprise, and it was exactly that. From afar, and even right up at it, it looked like just a little wave. No idea about the huge drop right before the wave until you were in it. Yee haw!
 |
| Our guide, Perkins, while we floated down the river |
After lunch the river picked up. Way less calm water, way more rapids. The river was the highest it had every been so some of the class 5 rapids were actually 5+. There were several class 5 and a few 4 and 3. Another swimming rapid, which was a little more intense than the previous one. We also pulled aside to a jumping rock. Ya know from the boat it didn't look that high, even though I'm pretty sure they said it was 18 feet. They also said once we climbed up we had to jump, it would be too dangerous to climb back down the rocks. I was hesitant but forced myself to climb up knowing I'd have to jump. From the top it was way higher, dizzying a little bit. But off I went!
No one from our boat fell out, the boat didn't tip over, and it was just a lot of exciting fun. Our guide, Perkins, made the trip a lot of fun as well. He taught us about the coal mining towns that used to be along the river, plus a lot about the river itself. I'd recommend asking for him as a guide for sure!
 |
| New River Gorge Bridge |
New and Gauley River Adventures also offers horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and snowshoeing. And if you're really looking for some high adrenaline rafting try the Upper Gauley trip, where rafting experience is required and the age limit starts at 16. You can try Duckie or kayaks on the New River as well. The company offers several package options and even overnight or multi day trips. I'm sure you'll find exactly what it is you want to do at River Adventures.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Ecotourism: Just Another Green Thing?
It's a big thing right now to be green. Upcycling, hybrid cars, solar energy - it's what's hot. It's hot due to global warming. Get it? Ok, enough with the trying to be funny.
The interest in helping the environment and protecting this planet has even reached into the travel circles, with ecotourism. Ecotourism is defined by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." The basic foundations of ecotourism include the minimization of global impact, raising environmental and cultural awareness, and providing financial benefits for conservation while benefiting the tourism site. So the bottom line is that ecotourism should positively affect both the natural area and local community.
Ecotourism is a huge topic with many layers. Especially when you consider that ecotourism is just a small part of a larger movement known as sustainable tourism. So instead of trying to explain what it all means exactly, and giving you a travel and tourism 101 crash course...I'm just going to give you some examples and focus in on a small part of ecotourism; ecolodges.
You can find ecolodges around the world in settings from mountains to the tropics. What they all have in common is their dedication to preserving nature, helping the livelihood of the local community, and offering a fulfilling experience for travelers.
There are many things that set an ecolodge apart, starting with their menus. Many ecolodges stand on a vegetarian and/or organic diet. The freshest of foods, possibly grown on the premises, is what travelers can expect to dine upon - including meat and fish. At the Turtle Inn in Belize, fresh seafood is delivered by local fishermen and many lodges produce their own wine.
The lodges themselves can be environmentally and economically friendly. Locals built the roof of the Three Camel Lodge's main building in Mongolia. And they did it without using a single nail. Jicaro Island Ecolodge in Nicaragua was constructed from salvaged hardwood trees that fell during a hurricane. Ecolodge expert, Hitesh Mehta, predicts that the next big thing will be using discarded shipping containers as lodging.
Supporting the local economy is as easy as bringing in tourists, but ecolodges go a step further. Locals are employed by these lodges, provide food for guests, and lead activities for lodge guests. In Jordan at the Feynan Ecolodge local hosts teach how to make flatbread over an open fire.Guides and staff at Namibia's Damaraland Camp share stories and knowledge of the local area during under-the-stars dining.
Ecolodges most obviously work to create an environment that is good for...the environment. This can be as simple as planting a new tree for every couple visiting as they do in Resurgence located in New Zealand. Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam only uses nontoxic biodegradable cleaning supplies and amenities. Back at the Turtle Inn breezes from the ocean replace air conditioners and stainless steal water bottles replace all plastic. Chumbe Island Coral Park in Zanzibar collects rainwater for daily water needs, the sun provides their energy, and composting toilets keep the local marine park clean.
Many ecolodges are located on nature reserves, such as Chumbe Island Coral Park.Great Ocean Ecolodge of Australia is located on the grounds of the Conservation Ecology Centre where guests can actually help care for injured wildlife. Even if a nature reserve isn't the surroundings, ecolodges are committed to the welfare of local flora and fauna. Turtle Inn partners with SEA Belize and Rainforest Alliance for local marine conservation.
You can see that while posh resorts might be more focused on the comforts and amenities they can offer their guests, ecolodges are focused on the local community and environment as well as their guests. Activities at ecolodges tend to be more on the nature and cultural side, instead of afternoons at the spa and 5 star restaurants.
If you like the spas and restaurants and 5 stars (there's nothing wrong with that!) be sure to see what preservation programs your resort is taking part in. Many hotels now offer to only wash towels and linens when requested to cut down on water use. Others might make a point to use green cleaners.
Ecotraveling might not be for everyone - but I think we can all agree that the efforts to better our planet and preserve it for future travel is a great idea!
The interest in helping the environment and protecting this planet has even reached into the travel circles, with ecotourism. Ecotourism is defined by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." The basic foundations of ecotourism include the minimization of global impact, raising environmental and cultural awareness, and providing financial benefits for conservation while benefiting the tourism site. So the bottom line is that ecotourism should positively affect both the natural area and local community.
Ecotourism is a huge topic with many layers. Especially when you consider that ecotourism is just a small part of a larger movement known as sustainable tourism. So instead of trying to explain what it all means exactly, and giving you a travel and tourism 101 crash course...I'm just going to give you some examples and focus in on a small part of ecotourism; ecolodges.
You can find ecolodges around the world in settings from mountains to the tropics. What they all have in common is their dedication to preserving nature, helping the livelihood of the local community, and offering a fulfilling experience for travelers.
 |
| Turtle Inn |
The lodges themselves can be environmentally and economically friendly. Locals built the roof of the Three Camel Lodge's main building in Mongolia. And they did it without using a single nail. Jicaro Island Ecolodge in Nicaragua was constructed from salvaged hardwood trees that fell during a hurricane. Ecolodge expert, Hitesh Mehta, predicts that the next big thing will be using discarded shipping containers as lodging.
 |
| Damaraland Camp |
Ecolodges most obviously work to create an environment that is good for...the environment. This can be as simple as planting a new tree for every couple visiting as they do in Resurgence located in New Zealand. Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam only uses nontoxic biodegradable cleaning supplies and amenities. Back at the Turtle Inn breezes from the ocean replace air conditioners and stainless steal water bottles replace all plastic. Chumbe Island Coral Park in Zanzibar collects rainwater for daily water needs, the sun provides their energy, and composting toilets keep the local marine park clean.
 |
| Great Ocean Ecolodge |
You can see that while posh resorts might be more focused on the comforts and amenities they can offer their guests, ecolodges are focused on the local community and environment as well as their guests. Activities at ecolodges tend to be more on the nature and cultural side, instead of afternoons at the spa and 5 star restaurants.
If you like the spas and restaurants and 5 stars (there's nothing wrong with that!) be sure to see what preservation programs your resort is taking part in. Many hotels now offer to only wash towels and linens when requested to cut down on water use. Others might make a point to use green cleaners.
Ecotraveling might not be for everyone - but I think we can all agree that the efforts to better our planet and preserve it for future travel is a great idea!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
China...not as scary as I think.
There are millions of places on this planet that I would love to see and explore - but not China. At least that's what I've said in the past. And I don't even really know why, just that I've "heard" bad things about it. Now I can't even remember specifically what it is I heard. Maybe that they'll detain your for no reason, throw you in prison, and then forget that they put you there. Or that they don't like Americans. Whatever I heard, I doubt it was true.
If you plan on leaving China (or even visiting certain areas within China - namely Hong Kong and Macau), and then returning you need a multiple entry visa. If traveling directly to Hong Kong or Macau for 90 days or less, and not traveling outside the cities, only a passport is required. Some areas such as the Tibet Autonomous Region and areas around the Nepal border require special permits, that may not even be granted. So you need to know exactly where you want to travel in China, if travel there is possible, and what documents you need.
Lastly upon arriving in China you have 24 hours to register with the police. If you're in China, they all want to know about it. Good news is, most hotels will register for you. Just make sure one way or another that the police know you are there.
Hard to get in, and never allowed to leave?
While you probably won't be detained to rot in prison for years upon years, you do need to be sure you have all documents in order before even stepping foot into an American airport. China has different requirements than most countries. In addition to needing a valid passport with at least six months of validity left, you need a visa. Not the credit card, although that could help eventually. To bail you out of jail. No, no, no. You need a valid visa both to enter and leave China. And you must have your passport and visa on your person at all times while in the country.If you plan on leaving China (or even visiting certain areas within China - namely Hong Kong and Macau), and then returning you need a multiple entry visa. If traveling directly to Hong Kong or Macau for 90 days or less, and not traveling outside the cities, only a passport is required. Some areas such as the Tibet Autonomous Region and areas around the Nepal border require special permits, that may not even be granted. So you need to know exactly where you want to travel in China, if travel there is possible, and what documents you need.
Lastly upon arriving in China you have 24 hours to register with the police. If you're in China, they all want to know about it. Good news is, most hotels will register for you. Just make sure one way or another that the police know you are there.
English? Anyone?
English is not exactly China's forte. Although children are taught English in school, it doesn't seem to stick. More than other places throughout the world you probably want to make an effort to learn a few key phrases in Mandarin. It's also a good idea to carry a business card from your hotel or other places you want to visit so that you can show it to taxi drivers and the like if you get lost. Keep a phrase book with you, or download a phone app that can help you translate as well. The app, Taxi-Book, is just to help you tell a taxi driver where you want to go.
Signs in English are going to be a toss up. Populated areas in major cities will probably display some English, smaller towns might not. It's also a toss up at to whether a sign that is translated will make any sense. China is somewhat famous for their interesting signage translations.
I always glare menacingly at that person in the restaurant booth beside me who's talking on a cell phone loudly enough for the deaf person down the street to hear. And lines are created for a reason. As were public restrooms. But that's here, and not there. There, it's a pushing match to see who gets to the front of a would-be line first (lines are a fairly new concept in China altogether) and when you gotta go, you gotta go. 'Thank you' also isn't a term commonly used. Chinese don't see a need to thank someone for doing their job, i.e. a waitress bringing food or a refill. But the thing is, the waitress wouldn't think it rude to not thank her.
The bottom line is - you might be appalled at some of the things you see or hear. But just because you find it rude or gross, doesn't mean anyone else around you is even going to give it a second glance.
Signs in English are going to be a toss up. Populated areas in major cities will probably display some English, smaller towns might not. It's also a toss up at to whether a sign that is translated will make any sense. China is somewhat famous for their interesting signage translations.
There's no reason not to try English if you need to communicate though. Some people will appreciate the opportunity to practice their own English. Just be patient, and have other forms of communication ready just in case.
Were you raised in a barn?
Go ahead and Google search the terms Chinese and rude. Now take a step back and realize that that is one huge generalization. While it's certainly arguable as to whether or not the Chinese are rude, it really seems to come down to a culture thing. Shoving, spitting, peeing in the street, cutting in line, talking loudly...these things aren't rude in China - they're commonplace.I always glare menacingly at that person in the restaurant booth beside me who's talking on a cell phone loudly enough for the deaf person down the street to hear. And lines are created for a reason. As were public restrooms. But that's here, and not there. There, it's a pushing match to see who gets to the front of a would-be line first (lines are a fairly new concept in China altogether) and when you gotta go, you gotta go. 'Thank you' also isn't a term commonly used. Chinese don't see a need to thank someone for doing their job, i.e. a waitress bringing food or a refill. But the thing is, the waitress wouldn't think it rude to not thank her.
The bottom line is - you might be appalled at some of the things you see or hear. But just because you find it rude or gross, doesn't mean anyone else around you is even going to give it a second glance.
Standing on formality.
The Chinese as a people very much stand on tradition, honor, and formality. Which can make it extremely easy for a tourist to offend someone. There are many things we do every day in America, that you should be careful to avoid in China.
Some basics - Never allow someone to pay the bill without first 'arguing' over it and offering to pay the entire thing yourself. Don't brag. If an offer you make is first refused, offer again. Don't accept a compliment graciously, you must be humble and modest to the point of denying a compliment. Don't show anger in public. Don't embarrass someone else publicly. And soooo many more. It'd be a good idea to peruse the internet for examples of all the faux pas holes you can stumble into in China.
Wow - all that being said I'm not sure how much of an advocate for China I really seem. But, I actually would like to travel there some day. If the above things scare you into not wanting to leave your back porch then consider Hong Kong. There aren't as many travel restrictions, English is more prevalent, and it's a more modern city than other areas. As for me, hopefully some day I'll take on the crowds and spitting and pushing and shoving and language barriers and visa requirements just to enjoy some time in China.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Travel Magazines. Who's the Audience?
When there are antlers and big mouth bass mounted on the walls, there's a Field and Stream on the coffee table. If you're sipping sweet tea in a sun room with the aroma of lilac and roses sweeping around you, check for the Better Homes and Garden on the wicker side table. Have a friend with five kids and a day care? Look for Parenting to be laying around somewhere...maybe under the teething ring and Cheerios.
Those are all certainly pretty broad generalizations, but there's a publication for every hobbyist. Including, of course, travelers. In reading over a well-known publication that I subscribe to, one thing kept entering my mind. Another pesky generalization that I was beginning to make about the writers and travelers of not only this publication, but others like it. I just kept thinking, 'These people sure seem pretentious." And I realized that is the reason that I don't often read travel magazines.
Magazines seem to be speaking to a certain type of traveler - and there are many different types to be sure. I feel as though to rate as a 'magazine traveler' you must be an architectural design major, a foodie, or an expert in the great arts of the world. That doesn't bode well for me. I know the difference between a door and a window, I don't even own salt, and my knowledge of art doesn't extend much beyond 'that guy who cut his ear off.'
So I'm already cut out of understanding or relating to a third of a travel magazine. Seriously. I skip large paragraphs because they contain words like 'compote' or 'fenestration.' Personally, I'd rather read about travel destinations and the different historical sites, fun excursions, or cultural experiences that a traveler should be looking for. But time and time again I get the travel magazine article blueprint (there's some architecture jargon for you) - flashy food place, hip art joint, and where the locals go.
It seems in order to be a magazine traveler, you should never, ever be a tourist. Forget about the well-known, ignore the quintessential. I say...no. If you're in New York City and you want to eat at Hard Rock in Times Square, then do it. If you're in Paris and you want to stand in line for hours with two hundred other people to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower, then do it. Tourist traps are not always bad things. I said it. Burn me at the stake. It isn't that I don't advocate digging for something deeper, and finding things off the beaten path - but is there really something so wrong with keeping on the worn path for a block or two and then veering off? Maybe more of an attitude of 'go where the tourists go and go where the locals go.'
There is no one right or wrong way to travel. There are those who like sit on the beach all day and never move, or sleep the day away so that they can experience the nightlife. Adventurers might look for the most outrageous, or dangerous outing possible and some just want to get cultural. Every one of those is a perfectly acceptable way to travel or vacation. But most travel publications speak to a small niche, which I do not feel I fall into.
Read most any of my blogs and they don't sound like a major publication article. There are many, many reasons for that and I don't need to delve into critiquing my writing, but I think it's mostly because I'm a laid back, accessible traveler. I don't have a lot of money to spend, I'm not trying to be hip, I just want to see the world and share my experiences. So honestly, I'm sort of hoping I never do write like a travel writer.
Those are all certainly pretty broad generalizations, but there's a publication for every hobbyist. Including, of course, travelers. In reading over a well-known publication that I subscribe to, one thing kept entering my mind. Another pesky generalization that I was beginning to make about the writers and travelers of not only this publication, but others like it. I just kept thinking, 'These people sure seem pretentious." And I realized that is the reason that I don't often read travel magazines.
Magazines seem to be speaking to a certain type of traveler - and there are many different types to be sure. I feel as though to rate as a 'magazine traveler' you must be an architectural design major, a foodie, or an expert in the great arts of the world. That doesn't bode well for me. I know the difference between a door and a window, I don't even own salt, and my knowledge of art doesn't extend much beyond 'that guy who cut his ear off.'
So I'm already cut out of understanding or relating to a third of a travel magazine. Seriously. I skip large paragraphs because they contain words like 'compote' or 'fenestration.' Personally, I'd rather read about travel destinations and the different historical sites, fun excursions, or cultural experiences that a traveler should be looking for. But time and time again I get the travel magazine article blueprint (there's some architecture jargon for you) - flashy food place, hip art joint, and where the locals go.
It seems in order to be a magazine traveler, you should never, ever be a tourist. Forget about the well-known, ignore the quintessential. I say...no. If you're in New York City and you want to eat at Hard Rock in Times Square, then do it. If you're in Paris and you want to stand in line for hours with two hundred other people to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower, then do it. Tourist traps are not always bad things. I said it. Burn me at the stake. It isn't that I don't advocate digging for something deeper, and finding things off the beaten path - but is there really something so wrong with keeping on the worn path for a block or two and then veering off? Maybe more of an attitude of 'go where the tourists go and go where the locals go.'
There is no one right or wrong way to travel. There are those who like sit on the beach all day and never move, or sleep the day away so that they can experience the nightlife. Adventurers might look for the most outrageous, or dangerous outing possible and some just want to get cultural. Every one of those is a perfectly acceptable way to travel or vacation. But most travel publications speak to a small niche, which I do not feel I fall into.
Read most any of my blogs and they don't sound like a major publication article. There are many, many reasons for that and I don't need to delve into critiquing my writing, but I think it's mostly because I'm a laid back, accessible traveler. I don't have a lot of money to spend, I'm not trying to be hip, I just want to see the world and share my experiences. So honestly, I'm sort of hoping I never do write like a travel writer.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Mesa Verde, Colorado
I really laid off of my obsessive planning habits for my trip to Colorado. I was ready to just go with the flow, except for one thing. I pretty much insisted we make the two hour trip out to Mesa Verde.
We didn't know if we should drive ourselves or take a tour, but it ended up that taking a tour was going to be much easier for us. The prices were reasonable for an all day trip, especially since it was a two hour drive. We were recommended Wilderness Journeys from a friend, and they were fabulous!
The tour left early in the morning with one pit stop on the way to Mesa Verde. Our park fee ($10-$15 depending on the time of year) was covered, but the tour guide, John, stopped to get tickets and picked us up brochures. We had a fairly long drive to the top (20 winding miles), but it was beautiful and John stopped often to allow us to take photos. We could see all the way to Utah as clear as the day was...or maybe Utah just isn't that far.
Because it was winter, the only cliff dwelling we could visit was Spruce Tree House. This dwelling is located next to the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. Most of the year this would be a self-guided tour, but we met up with a Park Ranger to take the tour. They offer tours three times daily in the winter and I would recommend it. You'll learn far more. Several of the other cliff dwellings require a tour guide so be sure to check on times. Hours and tour times are listed for each dwelling here.
After the tour we had lunch in the cafeteria and visited the museum. Lots of interesting artifacts in the museum and a short, but good, informational video. And of course a gift shop!
On the way down John took the Mesa Top Loop Road which gave us views of more dwellings - Square Tower House, Cliff Palace (the largest dwelling), and several surface dwellings. Not to mention some of the views we had of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which were amazing. John was able to teach us quite a bit as well.
Although I don't seem to have written much, this was a full, long, wonderful day. I slept all the way home (the biggest bonus of a tour!).
If you're planning a visit most importantly you need to check the online schedules to see what is open and when tours from Park Rangers are offered. Also see which tours are self-guided, and which require a Park Ranger. Getting to the dwellings can be difficult. Trails are steep so make sure you are of able body. John assured us that the park is crawling with people in the summer and much more enjoyable in the winter months. Even though we could only visit one dwelling, the views of the others made me agree that winter would be best. There are a ton more things to do that I'm not even getting into, so spend some time perusing their website http://www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm to learn more!
We didn't know if we should drive ourselves or take a tour, but it ended up that taking a tour was going to be much easier for us. The prices were reasonable for an all day trip, especially since it was a two hour drive. We were recommended Wilderness Journeys from a friend, and they were fabulous!
The tour left early in the morning with one pit stop on the way to Mesa Verde. Our park fee ($10-$15 depending on the time of year) was covered, but the tour guide, John, stopped to get tickets and picked us up brochures. We had a fairly long drive to the top (20 winding miles), but it was beautiful and John stopped often to allow us to take photos. We could see all the way to Utah as clear as the day was...or maybe Utah just isn't that far.
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| Spruce Tree House |
After the tour we had lunch in the cafeteria and visited the museum. Lots of interesting artifacts in the museum and a short, but good, informational video. And of course a gift shop!
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| Down in a Kiva - an underground room used for religious purposes |
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| A dwelling across the box canyon |
If you're planning a visit most importantly you need to check the online schedules to see what is open and when tours from Park Rangers are offered. Also see which tours are self-guided, and which require a Park Ranger. Getting to the dwellings can be difficult. Trails are steep so make sure you are of able body. John assured us that the park is crawling with people in the summer and much more enjoyable in the winter months. Even though we could only visit one dwelling, the views of the others made me agree that winter would be best. There are a ton more things to do that I'm not even getting into, so spend some time perusing their website http://www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm to learn more!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Are You Traveling Somewhere Safe?
Every now and then a horrible story will hit the news about a traveler who is beaten, kidnapped, killed (most recently in Brazil). This certainly decreases travel to those areas, as expected. Some places are just better left alone and not visited. And not all those places may be immediately obvious.
When planning a trip the first thing you should do is research to make sure your destination is safe for tourists. Check again right before you leave for the trip. It may be that certain areas should be avoided, or maybe just after dark. But following the advice of Foreign Affairs agencies should be a major priority for any traveler.
The following site is maintained by the Government of Canada...but hey, not safe for Canadians equals not safe for Americans. Each country shows the level of caution that should be taken, as well as if travel should be avoided all together. Clicking on a country will show international advisories and reasons caution should be employed.
http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories
When planning a trip the first thing you should do is research to make sure your destination is safe for tourists. Check again right before you leave for the trip. It may be that certain areas should be avoided, or maybe just after dark. But following the advice of Foreign Affairs agencies should be a major priority for any traveler.
The following site is maintained by the Government of Canada...but hey, not safe for Canadians equals not safe for Americans. Each country shows the level of caution that should be taken, as well as if travel should be avoided all together. Clicking on a country will show international advisories and reasons caution should be employed.
http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories
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| A map of advisories is also available on the site. |
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
United, US Air, or JetBlue?
United is a perfectly fine airline. I had no problems per say - but they will nickle and dime you to death. Only using dollar bills and fives. First of all there's a $25 for checked luggage, and that's your first bag. The second bag is $35 and increases with each consecutive bag. Not uncommon for airlines these days though.
Then you get on the plane and have the pleasant surprise that there's live Direct TV in the back of the seat in front of you. At least most likely, not all planes may have been upgraded to this yet. Either way, unless you're going to shell out another six bucks you aren't watching that tv. After about 30 minutes of teasing the tv shuts off unless you swipe a credit card. At least they provide you with free headphones to listen to your paid-for-movie or the free radio in your arm rest. The headphones are in the seat pockets if you're wondering. If you get an older plane, back when they gave you entertainment for free, you might be watching a pre-selected movie on the tvs that drop down from the ceiling. They apparently haven't figured out a way to charge per customer for that.
Now comes the beverage cart. You'll get your drink for free. But that's it. If you want something to eat you'll have to pay for that too. And nothing comes cheap.
I had several delays (including an hour on the tarmac) with United, but with bad weather being a factor I don't know how much was avoidable. My luggage did make it to Durango before I did, and while that's better than later, how come I couldn't be on the earlier plane? I also encountered my only rude stewardess on a United plane, for whatever that's worth.
Skytrax, a global program that measures airline quality through detailed audits, gives United a 3 Star rating. Click here to see their full ratings.
JetBlue starts off on the right, and cost-effective foot by offering customers their first checked bag at no cost. The money saving continues on the plane as you're served drinks and snacks for free. Snacks are varied, as are drinks (although they're missing the cran-apple drink that is my airline favorite). If I remember correctly drinks are pre-poured into a plastic cup and you don't get the entire can, but that seems like a small trade off. They also get drinks three or four at a time, which seems to go faster and there's no drink cart bashing in people's elbows. On the last flight one of the flight attendants was passing out water before everyone was even in their seat. How nice.
Entertainment? Sure, how about some more live Direct tv? How about not paying for it? Watch tv for free, or purchase a movie, you're choice. They'll get you $2 for the headphones though, which you can purchase at the gate or on board. Or simply bring your own for the tv or radio. JetBlue also has more leg room than the other airlines. They must just make longer planes.
In my experience: no delays, friendly staff (friendliest I encountered all together), and an extra $40 in my pocket when I landed. Skytrax gives JetBlue a 4 Star rating. Click here for more detail. A note that out of over 681 airlines only 35 are 4 Star and only 6 are 5 Star.
US Airways is not much different from United. A charge for luggage, a charge for a snack, and (at least on the plane I was in) no entertainment at all. The only perk you're gonna get here is a free drink.
I encountered another hateful employee who chastised me for my carry on luggage. I've been using the same bag for three or four years and never had a problem, but she told me not to use it again (everything short of wagging her finger in my face). Rude.
Skytrax awarded US Airways 3 Stars. Click here for details on their rating.
So who wins the battle of the airlines in my book?
JetBlue. Hands down.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Durango, Colorado
Downtown Durango is one of those places where you feel like you'd be at home on a Sunday morning just strolling down the sidewalk, enjoying the sun, and not having a care in the world. Do a little shopping, maybe grab a beer (ok, maybe it's Saturday), and just enjoy yourself. To sum it up, I loved Durango.
It's a great day trip from Pagosa, and an easy drive that's about an hour long. Plus on the way down 160 you can take in a great view of Chimney Rock and Companion Rock. If you don't want to just grab a picture from the side of the road and want to have a fuller Chimney Rock experience, you can do that too. Highway 151 will take you to the Visitor's Center where you can grab a guided or self-guided tour for $12. Guided tours will offer more of a complete visit of the grounds, including ancient structures of the Ancestral Puebloans. Self-guided tours are limited to the Great Kiva Trail. Four guided tours are offered each day, self-guided tours are available 10:45 - 2:45. There are also some special tours such as the Full Moon Tour. Through October 1-May 14 there is limited access to Chimney Rock and the gates are closed to vehicles.
So let's get to downtown Durango. We started at Main Street by the Durango Train Station. The station has a museum and gift shop, and is the starting point for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad trips. There are several tours leaving the station, going through the San Juan Forest and along the Animas River. Be aware that the normal train route is abbreviated November through May and does not go all the way to Silverton and instead stops at the Cascade Station. Check for schedules and rates. Even if you don't plan on taking a train ride, the station is beautiful and worth a stop.
We walked down Main Street just going into any store that caught our interest. There are a ton of souvenir shops and I went into nearly every one of them. I'm a sucker for those types of stores. Good thing I was with someone very patient! Just as plentiful are the sports and ski shops. There are four major breweries in Durango, and one of them is on Main Street - Carver Brewing. I'm not much of a beer drinker, so I'm not the best to comment on the breweries, plus this was the only one we went into. The other ones in Durango are Ska Brewing, Steamworks Brewing, and Durango Brewing. Carver, Steamworks, and Durango serve food as well, but the menus are limited.
After shopping and enjoying downtown we got back in the car and headed out on highway 550 about 30 miles to Cascade Falls. The entrance was all snowed in but we went down the road a little ways and just parked in the middle since no one else was around. But apparently if you keep going down the road you come to a red gate that you can open and go through and park at the Cascade Creek trialhead. From there there are two trails, one on each side of the creek - the trail on the west side is the better of the two. However, we just roamed off on some trail through the snow that a bunch of other people had made and wound our way down the side of the gorge until we reached the waterfall. The entire waterfall was frozen, and you could tell people had been ice climbing on it. It was beautiful. The hike wasn't particularly easy, the snow made it slippery and it was very steep. But we stumbled upon a little cave with giant icicles on the way that was very cool. The hike back up was worse and I really felt the altitude on this one. Dearly missed the oxygen saturated air of home.
After a hike that nearly killed me we headed back to town for some lunch. Serious Texas Bar-B-Q. Oh. My. Heavens. I had the most amazing food! The menu isn't too big but all you need to know is Texas Taco. Chopped bar-b-q, cheesy potatoes, onions and jalapenos (not for me though) on a soft flour tortilla. Splash some of their bbq sauce on there and you'll be in heaven. Plus - if you're a southerner having sweet tea withdrawals, their sweet tea is spot on. So have all the beer you want at the breweries, but seriously...have some Serious Texas Bar-B-Q.
I would have loved to have had more time in Durango. It would be great to spend a week just exploring in the surrounding mountains. There are also hot springs in Durango - Trimble Hot Springs and one on the side of 550 that's actually quite beautiful. You don't soak there, but we pulled over to take a closer look and some cool pictures. No matter what you're doing though, Durango is sure to please!
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| Chimney Rock in the center, Companion Rock to the right |
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| Durango Train Station |
We walked down Main Street just going into any store that caught our interest. There are a ton of souvenir shops and I went into nearly every one of them. I'm a sucker for those types of stores. Good thing I was with someone very patient! Just as plentiful are the sports and ski shops. There are four major breweries in Durango, and one of them is on Main Street - Carver Brewing. I'm not much of a beer drinker, so I'm not the best to comment on the breweries, plus this was the only one we went into. The other ones in Durango are Ska Brewing, Steamworks Brewing, and Durango Brewing. Carver, Steamworks, and Durango serve food as well, but the menus are limited.
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| The "trail" we followed |
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| A cave we climbed down into |
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| Cascade Falls covered in ice |
I would have loved to have had more time in Durango. It would be great to spend a week just exploring in the surrounding mountains. There are also hot springs in Durango - Trimble Hot Springs and one on the side of 550 that's actually quite beautiful. You don't soak there, but we pulled over to take a closer look and some cool pictures. No matter what you're doing though, Durango is sure to please!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Pagosa Springs is a beautiful, quaint town seated at the base of the San Juan Mountains and just west of the Continental Divide. With stunning views of the Rockies and the San Juan River running through the heart of the town, Pagosa offers the best of Colorado.
Outdoors:
Let's start with the mountains. Just thirty minutes through the San Juan National Forest is Wolf Creek Pass and Wolf Creek Ski Area. We took a drive up US 160 to the ski area, but didn't do any skiing. The trip was still well worth it. Just before heading up the mountains is Treasure Falls, easily seen from 160. It was a stunning and unexpected view to see it completely frozen. If you're looking for ice climbing (which assumes you know what you're doing), Treasure Falls might be of interest. Across the street is the West Fork Trail, where we did some cross country skiing later in the week. If you find yourself on that trail, keep in mind it starts off through private property so be respectful.
With many of the Colorado passes you'll need to make they're open for driving in the winter. Even if they are open, be aware that many of the pull offs aren't. You can still pull off the road in a lot of places, just be extra careful. You really don't need to know where you're going to find amazing views. Just drive around and see what you find.
Along with the ski area, there are plenty of places to cross country ski or snowmobile - and plenty more places to rent equipment. Snowmobile rentals are expensive, and we didn't end up renting any. For more information on tours check with Wolfcreek Snow Mobile Tours or Third Generation Outfitters. If you're looking for ski or snowboard rentals head to Summit Ski and Sports. Very friendly people, good prices, wonderful shop for your winter clothing and rental needs. I probably went to the store five or six times throughout my trip.
We did rent skis and go cross country skiing. My first time ever. It was a lot of fun, but also pretty tiring. It's a lot of feet shuffling and you can actually work up a pretty good sweat. For some beginners practice we headed to the Pagosa Springs Golf Club where trails are groomed for skiing. Later in the day we hit West Fork which was a beautifully groomed trail through the woods...and actually easier to ski. You can find a list of trails and some information about each here.
If you're in Pagosa in the summer I can only imagine how beautiful a horseback ride or bike ride would be. Your tour options and company options are varied, so shop around and find your preference. In the summer you also have the added fun that the San Juan River brings - like tubing and kayaking.
The way to spend your vacation in Pagosa is outside, and the ways to spend that time are endless and varied depending on the season. You'll definitely have to do a little of your own research before heading out to see what's available for your time of year and interests.
Hot Springs/Spas:
After a long day of hiking or skiing I am convinced there is nothing better than a soak in the famous hot springs of Pagosa. The Great Pagosa Hot Springs is located about in the parking lot of the The Springs Spa. Water directly from this spring reaches 145 degrees F. The waters are said to be healing waters due to their high mineral content, which subsequently also makes them smell like rotten eggs (sulfer). Three surrounding spas tap into the underground aquifer that feeds the Hot Springs. They use this water to fill their soaking pools and are then able to have better control over the temperature.
The Springs Resort and Spa sits on the San Juan River and directly beside the Hot Springs. They have 23 outdoor pools ranging in temperature from 83 degrees to 114 degrees. Each pool has its own little name and a placard displaying the temperature. We bounced around from pool to pool - if you're doing this at night like we did bring some flip flops. The ground gets unbearably cold between pools. The Golden Pond in the middle of the property features a submerged boardwalk to the pool The Cliffs. While soaking in the large pool, Clouds in my Coffee, we even watched two raccoon walk up from the river and fish for goldfish out of the Golden Pond. If you're feeling very brave visit the Lobster Pot, 114 degrees. Two pools, Waterfall and Serendipity, feature waterfalls (Serendipity even has a bench behind the waterfall). For a slight additional cost you gain access to the 5 adult only pools.
Towels can be rented and lockers are available. The locker room features showers and even a bathing suit dryer (nice touch!). With renting the towels and lockers it was around $52 for two people. Full pricing information here.
The Overlook is a spa across the street from the San Juan River, but still tapping into the same healing waters of the hot spring. Much smaller (in size but certainly not quality), this spa features three rooftop pools and five indoor pools. I was a little hesitant about being inside and missing the scenery, but the inside of the Overlook is elegant and beautiful, creating a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere. The staff was amazing, always checking to see if we needed temperatures adjusted, a drink, or anything else. The indoor pools are unique - one features two lounge-chair type seats to lay back on, and a cold pool sits between two of the other tubs (hot to cold is supposed to be good for circulation). The spa also has a private tub room and massage rooms.
The locker rooms are even beautiful at the Overlook, and also include showers. Towels are available for rent as are lockers. The cost is just $10 a person (plus towel/locker), and we picked up a 2 for $18 coupon at Summit. Full pricing information here.
The third spa is Healing Waters Resort and Spa, but I didn't visit so I can't say much about the facility. All 3 spas are open to the public. My Hot Springs advice is to bring water (or buy it as the spa...The Overlook and The Springs also serve alcohol) and flip flops and if it's the middle of the winter don't hold your towel close to you as you walk between pools - you'll get it wet and it will freeze. Better yet, bring a couple of towels with you. Lastly don't wear silver jewelry, the minerals will turn it black. I think you can polish it back, but why risk it. Maybe just take off all your jewelry to be safe.
Food, Food, Food
Food is expensive...but yummy! There's definitely a southwest flair to the food, including plenty of spice. Chorizo is a staple like ketchup as far as I can tell...and it's spicy. Also beware hatch chile if you're not a big fan of the spice. Both are yummy though, so maybe grab a loaf of bread and glass of milk and try them anyway.
A small, local spot for some good food is Kip's Grill. Tacos, burritos, and burgers. Elk burgers. Try the elk, it's nothing like beef...or chicken. There isn't a whole lot of seating, so be ready to wait or get there early. Great atmosphere though, just a bunch of people having fun. For a good breakfast (specifically a burrito) head to Pagosa Baking Company or Higher Grounds Coffee. If you're wanting to take in some sports, play pool, and have a good supper head to Bear Creek Saloon. Delicious!
Shopping Time
Downtown Pagosa features some small boutique and souvenir shops that sort of open when they feel like it and close around 5 or 6:00. Further up the road is The Rainbow Gift Shop. Primarily a rock shop, it also features American Indian art and jewelry and touristy bits like t-shirts and magnets. If you want a gift from Colorado that is not made in China, visit the Made in Colorado Shoppe. Very few items in the store are from out-of-state, and those that are are marked. This store has a wonderful selection of jewelry, pottery, candles, and cards as well as t-shirts and other unique gifts. I enjoyed what both of these stores had to offer, and found employees at both to be very friendly.
I think I've about covered what I did in Pagosa Springs, but there's no way to cover all the possibilities. There are an endless array of ways to keep busy and beautiful sights to see. For some general Colorado tips check out an earlier posted blog here.
Outdoors:
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| Treasure Falls |
With many of the Colorado passes you'll need to make they're open for driving in the winter. Even if they are open, be aware that many of the pull offs aren't. You can still pull off the road in a lot of places, just be extra careful. You really don't need to know where you're going to find amazing views. Just drive around and see what you find.
Along with the ski area, there are plenty of places to cross country ski or snowmobile - and plenty more places to rent equipment. Snowmobile rentals are expensive, and we didn't end up renting any. For more information on tours check with Wolfcreek Snow Mobile Tours or Third Generation Outfitters. If you're looking for ski or snowboard rentals head to Summit Ski and Sports. Very friendly people, good prices, wonderful shop for your winter clothing and rental needs. I probably went to the store five or six times throughout my trip. |
| Skiing West Fork Trail |
If you're in Pagosa in the summer I can only imagine how beautiful a horseback ride or bike ride would be. Your tour options and company options are varied, so shop around and find your preference. In the summer you also have the added fun that the San Juan River brings - like tubing and kayaking.
The way to spend your vacation in Pagosa is outside, and the ways to spend that time are endless and varied depending on the season. You'll definitely have to do a little of your own research before heading out to see what's available for your time of year and interests.
Hot Springs/Spas:
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| The Great Pagosa Hot Springs |
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| The Springs and the San Juan River |
Towels can be rented and lockers are available. The locker room features showers and even a bathing suit dryer (nice touch!). With renting the towels and lockers it was around $52 for two people. Full pricing information here.
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| From The Overlook's Site |
The locker rooms are even beautiful at the Overlook, and also include showers. Towels are available for rent as are lockers. The cost is just $10 a person (plus towel/locker), and we picked up a 2 for $18 coupon at Summit. Full pricing information here.
The third spa is Healing Waters Resort and Spa, but I didn't visit so I can't say much about the facility. All 3 spas are open to the public. My Hot Springs advice is to bring water (or buy it as the spa...The Overlook and The Springs also serve alcohol) and flip flops and if it's the middle of the winter don't hold your towel close to you as you walk between pools - you'll get it wet and it will freeze. Better yet, bring a couple of towels with you. Lastly don't wear silver jewelry, the minerals will turn it black. I think you can polish it back, but why risk it. Maybe just take off all your jewelry to be safe.
Food, Food, Food
Food is expensive...but yummy! There's definitely a southwest flair to the food, including plenty of spice. Chorizo is a staple like ketchup as far as I can tell...and it's spicy. Also beware hatch chile if you're not a big fan of the spice. Both are yummy though, so maybe grab a loaf of bread and glass of milk and try them anyway.
 |
| Bear Creek Saloon |
Shopping Time
Downtown Pagosa features some small boutique and souvenir shops that sort of open when they feel like it and close around 5 or 6:00. Further up the road is The Rainbow Gift Shop. Primarily a rock shop, it also features American Indian art and jewelry and touristy bits like t-shirts and magnets. If you want a gift from Colorado that is not made in China, visit the Made in Colorado Shoppe. Very few items in the store are from out-of-state, and those that are are marked. This store has a wonderful selection of jewelry, pottery, candles, and cards as well as t-shirts and other unique gifts. I enjoyed what both of these stores had to offer, and found employees at both to be very friendly.
I think I've about covered what I did in Pagosa Springs, but there's no way to cover all the possibilities. There are an endless array of ways to keep busy and beautiful sights to see. For some general Colorado tips check out an earlier posted blog here.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Random, Unorganized Thoughts on Colorado
While I was in Colorado I made several observations based on experience...and I mean beyond "That's a lot of snow," and "Wow it's a bit chilly." I visited three areas, Pagosa Springs/Wolf Creek, Durango, and Mesa Verde and I feel like my observations led to fairly concrete conclusions. For your knowledge and entertainment, here are those observations and conclusions, which I'm going to attempt to translate into Colorado travel tips.
Observation #1 - Everything opens when employees feel like it.
I actually read posted hours signs reading "11ish - 6:00." I guess this leaves owners and employees open for a great day of skiing right after a good snow, or maybe if the roads are bad they figure they'll at least make it in by 11:00...ish. Another sign "Open most every day Monday-Saturday." Guess you just have to show up, give the door a good tug, and see if you get in.
Observation #2 - Food is almost too expensive to bother eating every meal.
None of our meals were cheap. Breakfast on average for two people was $12-$16, and the lower end of that spectrum came from a coffee shop. Dinner for two was more around the $30 range. I'm not sure about grocery store prices, but chances are good you're better off shopping and cooking meals if you're able.
Observation #3 - Colorado has burritos out the yin yang and everything is spicy.
Burritos for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Literally. If you don't like hot and spicy then watch what you're eating. Chorizo and hatch chilies are particularly hot. Yummy, but hot.
Observation #4 - Drivers like the passing lane.
If you're not doing the speed limit, or even if you are, prepare to be passed. Never seen so many people driving in the left hand lane short of England.
Observation #5 - You might at times think you're actually in Texas.
Southern Colorado caters to Texans. The best food I had was from Serious Texas BBQ. A lot of restaurants are decorated with Longhorn memorabilia and there are a lot of people driving around with Texas plates.
Observation #6 - Wildlife isn't as hard to spot as I thought.
I saw a few dozen elk on the side of the road (and only 2 of them were dead...), plus 3 raccoon (all alive - 2 at the Springs and 1 going for a jog down the double yellows), a bald eagle, an owl that nearly t boned our car, a red tailed hawk, and some mule deer. All I was missing was a cougar and a big horn sheep.
Observation # 7 - It wasn't actually as cold as I expected.
Ok, yes, it was an average of about 20 degrees in February, but the sun is quite hot. When I saw skiing I ended up taking off my gloves, earmuffs, and coat. I really hated wearing my coat in the car, since the small space heated up pretty quickly. The lesson here is to wear lots of layers.
Observation #8 - Everyone is really friendly.
Most everyone I had contact with was friendly and bubbly - all the way from Pagosa to Mesa Verde. It's nice to have people act like they want you in their town!
Observation #9 - Colorodo is high
I actually don't mean what you think I mean! I'm talking elevation. So if you live at sea level, take your first few days easy. If you're doing something strenuous like hiking or skiing you'll probably lose your breath faster than normal. There is less oxygen in the air at high altitudes...so be prepared.
Those are my generalizations for Colorado, or at least the southern part of the state. I'm going to get into some more specifics of my trip - what I did, some places to go - in later blogs. So come back soon!
Observation #1 - Everything opens when employees feel like it.I actually read posted hours signs reading "11ish - 6:00." I guess this leaves owners and employees open for a great day of skiing right after a good snow, or maybe if the roads are bad they figure they'll at least make it in by 11:00...ish. Another sign "Open most every day Monday-Saturday." Guess you just have to show up, give the door a good tug, and see if you get in.
Observation #2 - Food is almost too expensive to bother eating every meal.
None of our meals were cheap. Breakfast on average for two people was $12-$16, and the lower end of that spectrum came from a coffee shop. Dinner for two was more around the $30 range. I'm not sure about grocery store prices, but chances are good you're better off shopping and cooking meals if you're able.
Observation #3 - Colorado has burritos out the yin yang and everything is spicy.
Burritos for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Literally. If you don't like hot and spicy then watch what you're eating. Chorizo and hatch chilies are particularly hot. Yummy, but hot.
Observation #4 - Drivers like the passing lane.
If you're not doing the speed limit, or even if you are, prepare to be passed. Never seen so many people driving in the left hand lane short of England.
Observation #5 - You might at times think you're actually in Texas.
Southern Colorado caters to Texans. The best food I had was from Serious Texas BBQ. A lot of restaurants are decorated with Longhorn memorabilia and there are a lot of people driving around with Texas plates.
I saw a few dozen elk on the side of the road (and only 2 of them were dead...), plus 3 raccoon (all alive - 2 at the Springs and 1 going for a jog down the double yellows), a bald eagle, an owl that nearly t boned our car, a red tailed hawk, and some mule deer. All I was missing was a cougar and a big horn sheep.
Observation # 7 - It wasn't actually as cold as I expected.
Ok, yes, it was an average of about 20 degrees in February, but the sun is quite hot. When I saw skiing I ended up taking off my gloves, earmuffs, and coat. I really hated wearing my coat in the car, since the small space heated up pretty quickly. The lesson here is to wear lots of layers.
Observation #8 - Everyone is really friendly.
Most everyone I had contact with was friendly and bubbly - all the way from Pagosa to Mesa Verde. It's nice to have people act like they want you in their town!
Observation #9 - Colorodo is high
I actually don't mean what you think I mean! I'm talking elevation. So if you live at sea level, take your first few days easy. If you're doing something strenuous like hiking or skiing you'll probably lose your breath faster than normal. There is less oxygen in the air at high altitudes...so be prepared.
Those are my generalizations for Colorado, or at least the southern part of the state. I'm going to get into some more specifics of my trip - what I did, some places to go - in later blogs. So come back soon!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Staying Occupied at the Airport
All of the ideas seem so obvious. Read. Sleep. Work. Eat. Shop. Listen to music. Watch a movie. Talk to people. Basically, pack your smart phone, grab a snack, and sit around waiting for your next flight.
Not all that helpful for me...but maybe for a first time plane traveler. So despite what I deem obvious, here goes my airport to-do list.
- Read. If you didn't bring a book visit a newsstand for a magazine, word puzzle, or novel.
- Talk. On your phone or to people around you (ya know...if you're the friendly sort). If you're worried about your phone (or any electronic device) dying make sure you pack the charger in your carry on luggage.There are electrical outlets all around the gates that you can use.
- Watch a movie or listen to music on your nifty pocket computer of choice.
- Take a walk. If you're at an airport with moving floors you could ride those up and down and wonder at the weightless feeling you have while zooming past those walking on the boring, normal floor. If you're lucky enough to be at an airport with a tram, ride that back and forth and back and forth.
- Write in a journal.
- Catch up on work or surf the web. Your airport will almost certainly offer free wi-fi.
- Sleep...if you can.
- Shop. You can go online and see what shops your airport offers. You'll probably find everything from city souvenirs to Pandora jewelry and Coach. Bonus if you can find a duty free shop (where items are cheaper because the store is not charged a duty or tax and can keep prices lower). Duty free shops usually carry things like liquor, perfumes, candy, and jewelry and will be around international flight gates.
- Eat. You can have a snack at your gate or a sit down meal. Check online for restaurant lists.
- Leave. If your layover is long enough you can leave and visit the surrounding city. Just keep in mind you'll need enough time to get back to the airport and go through security again.
If you are going to have a long layover, research the airport online. Some airports have art galleries, nap or massage stations, or special VIP areas you may be interested in. But if you know beforehand, you won't have to waste time wandering around (unless that's what you want to do).
Layovers are just never going to be what I would call fun, but they can be made tolerable. If anyone has any unique ideas I'd love to hear them.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Some Good Travel Related Laughs
Because I needed a laugh today, and chances are some other people do too.
The following are supposedly stories from actual travel agents. I found them on the internet, so they could actually be the late night musings of a dog groomer. But they're still funny.
- I had someone ask for an aisle seat so that her hair wouldn't get mess up by being near the window.
- I got a call from a woman who wanted to go to Capetown. I started to explain the length of the flight and the passport information when she interrupted me with "I'm not trying to make you look stupid, but Capetown in is Massachusetts." Without trying to make her look like the stupid one I calmly explained, "Cape Cod is in Massachusetts, Capetown is in Africa. Her response...click.
- A man called furious about a Florida package we did. I asked what was wrong with the vacation in Orlando. He said he was expecting an ocean-view room. I tried to explain that is not possible, since Orlando is in the middle of the state. He replied, "Don't lie to me. I looked on the map and Florida is a very thin state."
- A nice lady just called. She need to know how it was possible that her flight from Detroit left at 8:20 am and got into Chicago at 8:33 am. I tried to explain that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois, but she could not understand the concept of time zones. Finally I told her the plane went very fast, and she bought that.
- A woman called and said, "I need to fly to Pepsi-Cola on one of those computer planes." I asked if she meant to fly to Pensacola on a commuter plane. She said, "Yeah, whatever."
- A businessman called and had a question about the documents he needed in order to fly to China. After a lengthy discussion about passports I reminded him he needed a visa. "Oh no I don't. I've been to China many times and never had to have one of those." I double checked and sure enough his stay required a visa. When I told him he said, "Look, I've been to China four times and every time they have accepted my American Express."
- A woman called to make reservations. "I want to go from Chicago to Hippopotamus, New York." The agent was at a loss for words. Finally the agent said, "Are you sure that's the name of the town?" "Yes, what flights do you have?" replied the customer. After some searching the agent came back with, "I'm sorry ma'am, I've looked up every airport code in the country and can't find a Hippopotamus anywhere." The customer retorted, "Oh don't be silly. Everyone knows where it is. Check your map!" The agent scoured a map of the state of New York and finally offered, "You don't mean Buffalo, do you?" "That's it! I knew it was a big animal." (I also read this one as a woman asking to fly to Bison, New York)
And here are some fun quips from airline stewardesses and pilots.
Pilot - "Folks we have reached our cruising altitude now, so I'm going to switch the seat belt sign off. Feel free to move about as you wish, but please stay inside the plan til we land. It's a bit cold outside, and if you walk on the wings it affects the flight pattern."
While landing and coming to a stop - "Whoa big fella - WHOA"
Stewardess - "Should the cabin lose pressure oxygen masks will drop from the overhead area. Please place the bag over your own mouth and nose before assisting children or adults acting like children."
After a rough landing - "Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Amarillo. Please remain in your seats with your seat belts fastened while the Captain taxis what's left of our plane to the gate."
Another rough landing - "We ask you to please remain seated as Captain Kangaroo bounces us to the terminal."
Stewardess - "Welcome aboard Southwest Flight ABC. To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle and pull tight. It works just like every other seatbelt, and if you don't know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised. In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask and pull it over your face. If you have small children traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with two small children, decide now which one you love more. Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken clouds, but they'll try to have them fixed before we arrive. Thank you, and remember, nobody loves you or your money more than Southwest Airlines"
Well there you go, funny real life stories, or musing of a dog groomer. Hope it at least made you laugh.
The following are supposedly stories from actual travel agents. I found them on the internet, so they could actually be the late night musings of a dog groomer. But they're still funny.
- I had someone ask for an aisle seat so that her hair wouldn't get mess up by being near the window.
- I got a call from a woman who wanted to go to Capetown. I started to explain the length of the flight and the passport information when she interrupted me with "I'm not trying to make you look stupid, but Capetown in is Massachusetts." Without trying to make her look like the stupid one I calmly explained, "Cape Cod is in Massachusetts, Capetown is in Africa. Her response...click.
- A man called furious about a Florida package we did. I asked what was wrong with the vacation in Orlando. He said he was expecting an ocean-view room. I tried to explain that is not possible, since Orlando is in the middle of the state. He replied, "Don't lie to me. I looked on the map and Florida is a very thin state."
- A nice lady just called. She need to know how it was possible that her flight from Detroit left at 8:20 am and got into Chicago at 8:33 am. I tried to explain that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois, but she could not understand the concept of time zones. Finally I told her the plane went very fast, and she bought that.
- A woman called and said, "I need to fly to Pepsi-Cola on one of those computer planes." I asked if she meant to fly to Pensacola on a commuter plane. She said, "Yeah, whatever."
- A businessman called and had a question about the documents he needed in order to fly to China. After a lengthy discussion about passports I reminded him he needed a visa. "Oh no I don't. I've been to China many times and never had to have one of those." I double checked and sure enough his stay required a visa. When I told him he said, "Look, I've been to China four times and every time they have accepted my American Express."
- A woman called to make reservations. "I want to go from Chicago to Hippopotamus, New York." The agent was at a loss for words. Finally the agent said, "Are you sure that's the name of the town?" "Yes, what flights do you have?" replied the customer. After some searching the agent came back with, "I'm sorry ma'am, I've looked up every airport code in the country and can't find a Hippopotamus anywhere." The customer retorted, "Oh don't be silly. Everyone knows where it is. Check your map!" The agent scoured a map of the state of New York and finally offered, "You don't mean Buffalo, do you?" "That's it! I knew it was a big animal." (I also read this one as a woman asking to fly to Bison, New York)
And here are some fun quips from airline stewardesses and pilots.
Pilot - "Folks we have reached our cruising altitude now, so I'm going to switch the seat belt sign off. Feel free to move about as you wish, but please stay inside the plan til we land. It's a bit cold outside, and if you walk on the wings it affects the flight pattern."
While landing and coming to a stop - "Whoa big fella - WHOA"
Stewardess - "Should the cabin lose pressure oxygen masks will drop from the overhead area. Please place the bag over your own mouth and nose before assisting children or adults acting like children."
After a rough landing - "Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Amarillo. Please remain in your seats with your seat belts fastened while the Captain taxis what's left of our plane to the gate."
Another rough landing - "We ask you to please remain seated as Captain Kangaroo bounces us to the terminal."
Stewardess - "Welcome aboard Southwest Flight ABC. To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle and pull tight. It works just like every other seatbelt, and if you don't know how to operate one, you probably shouldn't be out in public unsupervised. In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask and pull it over your face. If you have small children traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with two small children, decide now which one you love more. Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken clouds, but they'll try to have them fixed before we arrive. Thank you, and remember, nobody loves you or your money more than Southwest Airlines"
Well there you go, funny real life stories, or musing of a dog groomer. Hope it at least made you laugh.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Things to Do in Eastern Connecticut
The future for me holds a lot of trips to Connecticut, visiting my parents. I need things to do, they need things to do, and people in eastern Connecticut need things to do. So I'm going to help out with the following list of things to keep busy.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
860-767-0103
One Railroad Ave., Essex
This is the only steam train and riverboat connection trip in the country. The 2 and half hour tour (which is narrated) starts at the Essex Station and goes through the country side while you ride on vintage rail cars pulled by a steam engine. When you reach Deep River Landing you will switch it up and board the Becky Thatcher riverboat. An hour and 15 minute cruise takes you down the Connecticut River. Along the way take in sights such as Gillette Castle and the Goodspeed Opera House. After the river tour you board the train for the trip back to Essex. You could also just take the train ride if you chose. Fun note, in July of 2007 Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull was filmed in Essex in the historical train yard.
Hours: Hours vary by season. Check the schedule online.
Cost: Train and Boat - $26 Adult / $17 Kids (2-11) Train Only - $17 Adult / $9 Kids
The New England Carousel Museum
860-585-5411
95 Riverside Ave, Rt. 72, Bristol
I didn't even know a carousel museum existed, and this one houses the biggest collection of antique carousel pieces in the country. You can tour the museum with our without a tour guide. After, check out Bushnell Park Carousel (which is not on the grounds of the museum and is about an 18 minute drive to Hartford). The Museum is currently working to restore the vintage 1914 Stein and Goldstein carousel (one of only 3 left in the world), for its 100th birthday in 2014. The carousel is in operation throughout restoration; a 3 and a half minute ride goes for $1.
Hours: Closed January and February. Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
Cost: $6 Adults (includes 1 ride on the Bushnell Carousel)
Dinosaur State Park
860-529-8423
400 West Street, Rocky Hill
Connecticut is taking the cake for some of the biggest and best. Dinosaur State Park is one of the largest sites of dinosaur tracks in North America. Beneath a large dome are 500 dinosaur tracks, most of which were made by the Dilohpsaurus, the dinosaur also featured in the Jurassic model and exhibit. The tracks were discovered in 1966 accidentally during the excavation of a new building site. Another 1,500 tracks were re-buried for preservation. The trackway, around 200 million years old, is a Registered National Landmark. Surrounding the park are more than 2 miles of walking trails and the Dinosaur State Park Arboretum.
Hours: Park is open daily 9am-4:30pm, Exhibit Center is open Tues-Sun 9am-4pm *Beginning Feb 25, 2013 the Exhibit Center will be closed for renovation for around 5 weeks
Cost: $6 Adults / $2 Kids (6-12)
Silver Sands State Park
Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford
Here's the big deal about Silver Sands - it's free! If you've ever tried to go to a beach or lake in CT, you know that's almost impossible to find. The Park looks out on Charles Island, where it's rumored Captain Kidd buried treasure in 1699. The island currently only holds the remains of a Catholic retreat center for the 1920s-30s. The island can be reached by a rocky sandbar during low tide - which means the sandbar is underwater during high tide. Don't get stuck in the middle...tides come in fast (I'm not going to mention anything about personal experience).
Hours: 8 am to sunset, the Island interior is shut down from May 1-Aug 31 to protect heron and egret nests. * The Boardwalk is currently closed due to damage sustained during Hurricane Sandy.
Cost: FREE!
Gillette Castle
860-526-2336
67 River Rd, East Haddam
This beautiful castle was the former home of William Gillette, actor, director and playwright. Tours take you through the interior of the 24 room mansion, set upon 184 acres of land. The grounds offer picnicking, hiking, and camping along the Connecticut River.
Hours: The grounds are open year round, 8am to sunset. The Castle is open Memorial Day to Columbus Day from 10am-5pm.
Cost: Visiting the grounds is free, going inside the Castle is $6 Adults / $2 Kids (6-12)
For more Connecticut "Things to Do" look over a previous blog I wrote by following this link - and keep checking back for more!
860-767-0103
One Railroad Ave., Essex
This is the only steam train and riverboat connection trip in the country. The 2 and half hour tour (which is narrated) starts at the Essex Station and goes through the country side while you ride on vintage rail cars pulled by a steam engine. When you reach Deep River Landing you will switch it up and board the Becky Thatcher riverboat. An hour and 15 minute cruise takes you down the Connecticut River. Along the way take in sights such as Gillette Castle and the Goodspeed Opera House. After the river tour you board the train for the trip back to Essex. You could also just take the train ride if you chose. Fun note, in July of 2007 Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull was filmed in Essex in the historical train yard.
Hours: Hours vary by season. Check the schedule online.
Cost: Train and Boat - $26 Adult / $17 Kids (2-11) Train Only - $17 Adult / $9 Kids
860-585-5411
95 Riverside Ave, Rt. 72, Bristol
I didn't even know a carousel museum existed, and this one houses the biggest collection of antique carousel pieces in the country. You can tour the museum with our without a tour guide. After, check out Bushnell Park Carousel (which is not on the grounds of the museum and is about an 18 minute drive to Hartford). The Museum is currently working to restore the vintage 1914 Stein and Goldstein carousel (one of only 3 left in the world), for its 100th birthday in 2014. The carousel is in operation throughout restoration; a 3 and a half minute ride goes for $1.
Hours: Closed January and February. Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
Cost: $6 Adults (includes 1 ride on the Bushnell Carousel)
Dinosaur State Park860-529-8423
400 West Street, Rocky Hill
Connecticut is taking the cake for some of the biggest and best. Dinosaur State Park is one of the largest sites of dinosaur tracks in North America. Beneath a large dome are 500 dinosaur tracks, most of which were made by the Dilohpsaurus, the dinosaur also featured in the Jurassic model and exhibit. The tracks were discovered in 1966 accidentally during the excavation of a new building site. Another 1,500 tracks were re-buried for preservation. The trackway, around 200 million years old, is a Registered National Landmark. Surrounding the park are more than 2 miles of walking trails and the Dinosaur State Park Arboretum.
Hours: Park is open daily 9am-4:30pm, Exhibit Center is open Tues-Sun 9am-4pm *Beginning Feb 25, 2013 the Exhibit Center will be closed for renovation for around 5 weeks
Cost: $6 Adults / $2 Kids (6-12)
Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford
Here's the big deal about Silver Sands - it's free! If you've ever tried to go to a beach or lake in CT, you know that's almost impossible to find. The Park looks out on Charles Island, where it's rumored Captain Kidd buried treasure in 1699. The island currently only holds the remains of a Catholic retreat center for the 1920s-30s. The island can be reached by a rocky sandbar during low tide - which means the sandbar is underwater during high tide. Don't get stuck in the middle...tides come in fast (I'm not going to mention anything about personal experience).
Hours: 8 am to sunset, the Island interior is shut down from May 1-Aug 31 to protect heron and egret nests. * The Boardwalk is currently closed due to damage sustained during Hurricane Sandy.
Cost: FREE!
860-526-2336
67 River Rd, East Haddam
This beautiful castle was the former home of William Gillette, actor, director and playwright. Tours take you through the interior of the 24 room mansion, set upon 184 acres of land. The grounds offer picnicking, hiking, and camping along the Connecticut River.
Hours: The grounds are open year round, 8am to sunset. The Castle is open Memorial Day to Columbus Day from 10am-5pm.
Cost: Visiting the grounds is free, going inside the Castle is $6 Adults / $2 Kids (6-12)
For more Connecticut "Things to Do" look over a previous blog I wrote by following this link - and keep checking back for more!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Travel Crafts
We can't all spend all of our time traveling. There are other things...like work, bills, and well, those are the only two reasons for me. And a general lack of funds. But when I'm home, between trips, I like to keep my mind in travel with some DIY projects.
The project I most often find myself working on would be scrap-booking. I take a lot of photos when I travel, and for me if I'm going to print them and stick them in an album then I might as well not print them at all. But if I can print them and work on a scrap-book then I have something fun to fill my time, and something cool to show for it. Scrap-books are much more fun to share with family and friends than plain albums.
Tips: Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, and Michael's seem to be the best places to buy supplies. But only Hobby Lobby and AC Moore offer coupons online. On any given day you can print (or pull up on a smart phone) at least a 40% off coupon. Scrap-books also make a handy place to store brochures, tickets, and other little things you picked up on vacation.
My second favorite project to date is my wall map. I got a large map of the united states, attached it to cork board, and framed the entire thing. I have push pins in all of the cities that I've visited. I also have smaller maps of the other countries I've visited with pins.
Tips: I got my map for free at the Cracker Barrel. The cork board works much better if it is first affixed to a board of the same size. My frame is made of ceiling molding. And I had my Daddy's help.
Just the other day I made myself a set of map coasters. These were extremely easy and only took about fifteen minutes. I already had coasters (which were actually coaster-sized tiles). I cut pieces of a map to fit the top of the coaster then coated the coaster top with mod podge and stuck the map piece to it. Then I covered the whole thing with another layer of mod podge.
Tip: I got old maps from a local upcycle store for a quarter each. I like to keep my own maps of places I've visited so I didn't want to use those. You could probably do the same project with a variety of other pieces - vacation photos, brochures, event tickets, etc. Also, I do realize my coasters are a bit bumpy and that's in part to the folds in the map, so maybe use a section that hasn't been folded.
I made buttons for the first time the other day too. Buttons that go on clothing, or a bag. But you could also make pins. I used a map to cover the buttons as well.
Tip: You can buy button or pin making kits at craft stores. They were very easy to make with the kit.
While I was on a roll with my maps, I made a map box to hold my maps. And I covered the box using...yes, maps! An old map and mod podge.
Tips: I don't really have any. It's so simple. Get creative with other things you can use to cover the box.
Another ongoing craft I have constantly going (well, at least after every trip) is my travel journal. Now for me this isn't a diary of how my vacation went, but a journal to keep my notes from my vacation planning. I take extensive notes when I'm about to travel somewhere, and I decided to keep them in a fun little book. The notes are actually kind of funny to look over a couple years after the vacation.
Tips: Get a composition notebook for less than a dollar and then cover it with fabric, wrapping paper, scrap-book paper....or a map!
Also, check out this awesome puzzle I took a few weeks to put together!
There are thousands of travel related crafts on the internet, especially on Pinterest. Here are some of the other projects I really want to try.
The project I most often find myself working on would be scrap-booking. I take a lot of photos when I travel, and for me if I'm going to print them and stick them in an album then I might as well not print them at all. But if I can print them and work on a scrap-book then I have something fun to fill my time, and something cool to show for it. Scrap-books are much more fun to share with family and friends than plain albums.
Tips: Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, and Michael's seem to be the best places to buy supplies. But only Hobby Lobby and AC Moore offer coupons online. On any given day you can print (or pull up on a smart phone) at least a 40% off coupon. Scrap-books also make a handy place to store brochures, tickets, and other little things you picked up on vacation.
 |
| I'd say I need to travel the West coast more |
Tips: I got my map for free at the Cracker Barrel. The cork board works much better if it is first affixed to a board of the same size. My frame is made of ceiling molding. And I had my Daddy's help.
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| These are pretty much water proof as well |
Tip: I got old maps from a local upcycle store for a quarter each. I like to keep my own maps of places I've visited so I didn't want to use those. You could probably do the same project with a variety of other pieces - vacation photos, brochures, event tickets, etc. Also, I do realize my coasters are a bit bumpy and that's in part to the folds in the map, so maybe use a section that hasn't been folded.
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| Now I just have to figure out what to do with the buttons |
Tip: You can buy button or pin making kits at craft stores. They were very easy to make with the kit.
While I was on a roll with my maps, I made a map box to hold my maps. And I covered the box using...yes, maps! An old map and mod podge.Tips: I don't really have any. It's so simple. Get creative with other things you can use to cover the box.
Another ongoing craft I have constantly going (well, at least after every trip) is my travel journal. Now for me this isn't a diary of how my vacation went, but a journal to keep my notes from my vacation planning. I take extensive notes when I'm about to travel somewhere, and I decided to keep them in a fun little book. The notes are actually kind of funny to look over a couple years after the vacation.
Tips: Get a composition notebook for less than a dollar and then cover it with fabric, wrapping paper, scrap-book paper....or a map!
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| Notes from my trip to D.C. |
Also, check out this awesome puzzle I took a few weeks to put together!
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| I really like the different types and colors of maps used here. |
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| The hearts are placed where you lived, or a loved one lives, or where you're from. |
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| Look, my favorite...maps! |
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