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newstfionline · 4 years

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Social distancing could last months, White House coronavirus coordinator says (Washington Post) Some form of social distancing will probably remain in place through the summer, Deborah Birx, the White House’s coronavirus task force coordinator, said Sunday—the same day several governors expressed optimism about the course of the virus and outlined their plans for a piecemeal reopening of their economies. After weeks of being told to simply stay home to halt the spread of the virus, individuals and business owners are now facing more complex decisions about how to proceed. In places where restaurant dining rooms are reopening, is it safe to go? Is it a good idea to return to the hair salon for a much-needed trim? And for business owners facing a litany of new guidelines about how to reopen without endangering their workers or customers, are the risks worth it?

Las Vegas and the jobs crisis (NYT) As the bottom fell out of the American economy, few places were hit harder than Las Vegas, where a full one-third of the local economy is in the leisure and hospitality industry, more than in any other major metropolitan area in the country. Most of those jobs cannot be done from home. Nearly 350,000 people in Nevada have filed for unemployment benefits since the crisis began, the highest number in the history of the state. Applied Analysis, a Las Vegas-based economic research firm, estimates the city’s current jobless rate to be about 25 percent—nearly double what it was during the Great Recession—and rising. “From an analytical standpoint, this is unprecedented,” said Jeremy Aguero, a principal analyst with the firm. “We have no frame of reference for what we are seeing.” Before the crisis, Nevada’s economy was one of the fastest growing in the country. Then, practically overnight, the glittering Vegas strip shut down, throwing thousands of waiters, bartenders, hotel cleaners and casino workers out of work, often without severance or benefits, and leaving the most bustling and storied stretch of the state’s economy boarded up and empty.

Bolsonaro Pulls Back Justice Minister Pick as Critics Cry Foul (Foreign Policy) Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro has postponed the appointment of a new justice minister after numerous news reports suggested Bolsonaro loyalist Jorge Oliveira would be the favorite for the role. The decision follows an explosive few days at the top of Brazilian politics as allegations of presidential corruption mount and public confidence in Bolsonaro’s handling of the country’s coronavirus epidemic crumbles. The latest episode began on Friday with the abrupt resignation of Justice Minister Sergio Moro, after Bolsonaro had fired the head of Brazil’s equivalent to the FBI, Maurício Valeixo. In his resignation press conference, Moro alleged Bolsonaro had fired Valeixo for personal and political reasons relating to ongoing federal investigations into Bolsonaro’s children. Immediately following Moro’s remarks, Brazil’s chief prosecutor asked the Supreme Court to authorize an investigation of Moro’s accusations against Bolsonaro. Writing in FP last week, Eduardo Mello observed that Brazilian lawmakers will be loath to remove Bolsonaro if that risks empowering Vice President Hamilton Mourão, a retired four-star general. “While most in Congress know that Bolsonaro’s populist rhetoric is a threat to them, they also think that having a general with no links to the country’s political power brokers is a bigger risk at the moment,” he wrote.

Chile plans coronavirus certificates (Foreign Policy) Chile is moving forward with a plan to issue “release certificates” to those who have recovered from the coronavirus. The plan, according to Chile’s top health official, Jaime Manalich, would mean holders would be “freed from all types of quarantine or restriction, specifically because they can help their communities enormously since they pose no risk.”

Virus spreads fear through Latin America’s unruly prisons (AP) The spreading specter of the new coronavirus is shaking Latin America’s notoriously overcrowded, unruly prisons, threatening to turn them into an inferno. The Puente Alto prison in downtown Santiago, Chile, had the largest of Latin America’s largest prison virus outbreaks so far, with more than 300 reported cases. The prison’s 1,100 inmates are terrified. Social distancing is hard to practice in jail. Latin America’s prisons hold 1.5 million inmates, and the facilities are often quasi-ruled by prisoners themselves because of corruption, intimidation and inadequate guard staffs. Low budgets also create ideal conditions for the virus to spread: There is often little soap and water and cell blocks are crowded.

As Europe confronts coronavirus, the media faces a trust test (Nieman Reports) By and large, European COVID-19 coverage is not increasing the public’s trust in the media. In an Edelman survey, journalists were the least trusted information source on the coronavirus, falling behind politicians and healthcare CEOs. This response follows five years of declining trust in the European Union’s media, and in some countries, the numbers are quite stark. About a week into Italy’s COVID-19 lockdown, a TradeLab study found that only 16 percent of those surveyed believed news on the pandemic was balanced and transparent.

Dutch teens sail across Atlantic after becoming stranded in Caribbean (Washington Post) When the global pandemic made air travel impossible, a group of Dutch high school students stranded in the Caribbean got home the old-fashioned way—sailing a 200-foot schooner across the Atlantic. The 25 teenagers on board the Wylde Swan sailed into the port of Harlingen and were reunited with their families on Sunday, roughly five weeks after leaving the island of Saint Lucia. Many of the students had minimal sailing experience when they signed up for an educational program aboard the two-masted schooner and had anticipated spending only six weeks cruising the relatively calm waters of the Caribbean. They eventually embarked on a journey of nearly 4,500 nautical miles across the ocean. Along the way, the students gradually got past their seasickness and watched dolphins swim alongside the vessel. One 17-year-old told the Omrop Fryslan Dutch radio station that it had been “an even more exciting journey than what I had signed up for.”

Face masks become mandatory in public across most of Germany (Washington Post) Most federal states across Germany implemented rules on the wearing of face masks in public on Monday, amid hopes that it will allow businesses to reopen without sparking a second wave of infections. The details differ between federal states. For instance in Berlin, face masks are mandatory on public transport, but violating the rule will not be penalized. In Munich and other cities, however, the rules are expected to be more strictly enforced with hefty fines. Face masks are now also mandatory in supermarkets and other shops across much of the country.

Dry Germany, drying Rhine (Bloomberg) Germany’s spring showers haven’t materialized this year, and that’s drying out the country’s most important river (the Rhine), prompting concerns that key industrial goods might have trouble making it to their destination. Typically one of the wettest months, Europe’s biggest economy has received just 5% of its normal April rainfall so far, according to Germany’s federal weather service. It’s on course to be the driest month since records began in 1881.

The right to work from home (Bild am Sonntag) German Labor and Social Affairs Minister Hubertus Heil has called to enshrine the right to work from home into German law, in a move that could become more common as advanced economies emerge from their coronavirus epidemics. “Anyone who wants to, and whose workplace allows it, should be able to work at home—even when the coronavirus pandemic is over,” Heil told Bild am Sonntag.

Saving Czech pubs (Worldcrunch) With more than 90% of pubs closed due to lockdown measures, the Czech Republic has been deprived of an emblematic part of its culture. In response, Czechs have spent 7 million CZK (257,124 euro) since the beginning of April on beer and food vouchers to be consumed in better times, reported iROZHLAS.cz. Started by the Czech Beer and Malt Association, the site “Zachraň svou hospodu!” (Save Your Pub!) enables concerned drinkers to buy vouchers in order to support their favorite bars and restaurants through the coronavirus shutdown, and use them whenever the cash-strapped pubs reopen.

Mideast economies take massive hit with oil price crash (AP) Iraq is planning painful cuts in social benefits relied on by millions of government workers. Saudi Arabia will likely have to delay mega-projects. Egypt and Lebanon face a blow as their workers in the Gulf send back less of the much-needed dollars that help keep their fragile economies afloat. The historic crash in oil prices in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic is reverberating across the Middle East as crude-dependent countries scramble to offset losses from a key source of state revenue—and all this at a time when several of them already face explosive social unrest. While some Gulf countries can rely on a cushion of foreign currency reserves, nowhere in the region are the circumstances more dire than in Iraq, where oil sales fund 90% of the state budget. Iraq saw massive protests in the past months by a populace angry over the weak economy and rampant corruption—and the turmoil could erupt again. Cutbacks in spending will only add to the pain for a population struggling to get by under coronavirus restrictions.

Lebanese defy coronavirus lockdown and block roads, protesting deteriorating economy (AP) Protesters took the streets across Lebanon late Sunday, blocking roads and highways to protest the worsening economy, in defiance of a coronavirus-triggered lockdown and curfew imposed by authorities, according to the country’s official news agency. Sunday’s demonstrations were the latest to rock Lebanon in recent days, even as a lockdown and a dusk-to-dawn curfew remained in place. The coronavirus pandemic has deepened Lebanon’s worst economic crisis since the nation’s 15 year civil war that ended in 1990. Since October, hundreds of thousands have demonstrated against the government and its elites, decrying corruption and other mismanagement that has crippled the economy.

Netanyahu confident of U.S. backing on annexation (Foreign Policy) On Sunday, Benjamin Netanyahu told a pro-Israel Christian group, the European Commission for Israel, that he was confident the United States would give its blessing to a planned annexation of parts of the occupied West Bank in a matter of months. A condition of Netanyahu’s newly formed coalition with Benny Gantz is that Washington must approve any annexation decision first. Writing in Foreign Policy on April 23, a trio of seasoned Israeli military commanders warned Netanyahu against such a move. Ami Ayalon (a former chief of the Israeli Shin Bet security service), Tamir Pardo (a former director of the Mossad), and Gadi Shamni (a former commander of the Israel Defense Forces Central Command) argued that annexation would undermine Israeli security and could spark a popular backlash in Jordan and Egypt—endangering hard-won peace treaties with those countries. “This irreversible step, once taken, is likely to trigger a chain reaction beyond Israel’s control,” they wrote.

#headlines #news

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primortravel · 3 years

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New Post has been published on https://primortravel.com/travel-2021-getting-started-again-solo-trekker/

Travel 2021-Getting Started Again | Solo Trekker

Travel 2021-Getting Started Again: Updated as of July 14, 2021:

March 11, 2021 marked the one-year anniversary since the World Health Organization declared Coronavirus was a pandemic. For one-year much of the world’s commerce and travel has come to a halt. However, as COVID-19 vaccinations within the United States and abroad have become widespread, summer vacation 2021 is back on albeit, at a lesser level than past years.

While many pandemic travel restrictions are being eased, many of us are still waiting to take our 2021 vacation. The good news is that as of July summer vacations are starting to roll out after finding the right destination. Those close to home, such as road trips and hiking national parks, have been top choices followed by Mexico and the Caribbean.

The long awaited good news is that most of Europe has just started to welcome foreign tourists. The challenge is that individual countries in the European Union have flexibility to make their own rules as well adding to the uncertainty. In addition, as conditions vary worldwide, there can be last minute changes before you leave home or while abroad.

Canada is still only open for essential travel.

Good News on the Cruise Front: “Cruising is Back!”

On June 26, the Celebrity Edge, was the first large cruise ship to set sail from a US port since March 14, 2020. On that date, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had issued a “No Sail” order. The Edge with CDC agreement departed with 95 percent of its passengers and crew fully vaccinated. Next Royal Caribbean International’s Freedom of the Seas sailed from Miami after successfully completing a test run under CDC guidelines.

Travel 2021-Getting Started Again:

While re-openings country by country and subsequent pauses are daily occurrences, we have compiled a select update of many of the most popular vacation spots. Be sure to research in detail online before booking, and get travel insurance. In the current climate, a CFAR or “Cancel for Any Reason” travel insurance policy can offer the broadest coverage. Lastly, stay up-to-date on your destination’s current control over the coronavirus and whether their vaccination program has been successful.

The “List”:

Selective Tourist Destinations Open to US Travelers:

Central America

Mexico

Partial List of Popular Caribbean Destinations Now Open for Tourism:

South America:

Bolivia

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Select List of Major European Countries: For more details, see also: Re-Open EU:

Croatia

France

Germany

Greece

Iceland

Ireland

Italy

Spain

Asia:

Japan: Olympics’ restrictions pending

Singapore

South Korea

Sri Lanka

Thailand

Africa:

Safaris are back on in some areas so it is time to look for 2021-2022 bargains. See our advice at:

Botswana

Egypt

Kenya

Morocco

South Africa

Tanzania – Take a look at exotic Zanzibar, part of Tanzania. See also the Dhow Palace and Stone Town Beach as an ideal add-on after a safari.

Tunisia

Uganda

Zambia

Zimbabwe

For more country-specific tours, see Kayak.

Travel 2021-Getting Started Again:

Practical Advice – Know before you go:

Read the fine print: “Open to foreign tourists” can mean many things: (i) negative COVID-19 tests required, (ii) proof of vaccination, (iii) quarantine on arrival and/or (iv) special COVID-19 surcharges. For example, on the latter, Cambodia was charging an entry fee of $2,000 to cover the tourist’s potential cost for medical services. Beyond COVID-19, researching local and national regulations can be eye opening. For example, can you name the popular destinations where it is illegal to: (i) drive without an international driver’s license? (ii) bring with you certain personal prescription drugs legal at home? (iii) take photos of individuals without permission (excepting unrecognizable ones or crowded street scenes)?

No vacancies: Check out off-season offerings in national parks if they are already filled to capacity for this summer.

Major attractions: Even though many are reopening, still check to see if a reservation or ticket is needed. This can also apply to museums and other venues even where there is no charge.

Choose a tour or cruise: That way you can leave it to the travel provider to track the constantly changing country restrictions.

Going abroad: Book a single-country destination to skip being caught between shifting national restrictions.

Plan B: Consider having a backup or alternate destination in case your first choice destination falls through. For example, if your first choice is abroad, find one at home or closer to home.

Looking ahead to 2022: If you vacation plans are still on hold for 2021, take advantage of great 2022 deals being offered now.

If you choose a solo road trip for your summer vacation, take a look at our tips for the ultimate road trip in 2021. (Are you the member of an automobile club? Alternatively, are you prepared to change a tire on a remote byway?)

Consider travel by train both in North America and Europe. In the US, Amtrak Vacations include long-haul coast-to-coast journeys in style with private sleepers. See also our America Train – Solo Travel Adventures. In Europe, take a look at Great Rail Journeys.

Join a small ship cruise in the US to Alaska or a luxury oceanliner by plane or rail to major ports. As long popular in Europe, local train services offer the most flexibility and can whisk you from an international flight to Europe’s top river cruises.

With the EU and many other countries looking to vaccination passports, get vaccinated if you have not already. While some drug stores were giving a free service to laminate vaccination cards, I created my own plastic cover which could easily be reopened. Besides hanging on carefully to your certificate, scan a copy on your computer, photograph it on your phone and have your doctor make a copy as well.

“Not Home Alone for the Holidays”? Start now, and find a way to celebrate the holidays from solo adventure tours to singles cruises and holiday markets.

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#Backpacking #SoloTravel #SoloTraveling #Solotrekker #Travel #Traveling

#Backpacking #SoloTravel #SoloTraveling #solotrekker #Travel #Traveling #Social Travels #Solo-Traveling

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mado-science · 6 years

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Comprehensive field guide great illustrations and very helpful text descriptions I bought it for an upcoming bird photography trip to Hungary. Something new for me as I live in the USA. Very pleased with it. It's small enough to carry into the field. Inevitably, a reasonably small book covering this area will be something of a compromise - I pretty much need some sort of magnification to read the text and to enjoy the illustrations. Twenty years ago, probably not! Go to Amazon

An ideal balance of clarity and content This is a perfect compromise for a birding field guide for European species. large enough to have all the expected species, plus almost all the rarities, beautiful illustrations that highlight important field marks, and a size that makes it small enough to actually carry and durable in its construction as a hands-on guide should be. I wish that there was a close equivalent for American birds existed. Sibley's guide is great, but suffers as a field reference by its large size. The National Geographic guide is a better size, but the illustrations do not quite equal the elegant simplicity of Svensson's guide. All in all, a wonderful tool. Highly recommended. Go to Amazon

bought it for an upcoming trip to europe I am going to europe this summer so I made sure to buy this guide early and get famil;iar with the birds over there. The guide is well written and easy to use . I also bought the first edition , just for the sake of my librarie, call me nuts but i like having all editions of guides and try to find the edits Go to Amazon

Great Guide for the Places Where Birds Are Found We purchased this volume in anticipation of our ten-day trip to Greece. What we did not anticipate is that Greece would be nearly devoid of birds! The crushing heat probably had something to do with this. When we did see them (mostly in the mountains near Delphi), the guide was invaluable. Go to Amazon

Very good book, well written. My husband is a bird watcher, and asked me to buy him this book for Father's Day. He was an Ornithology student in college. He is really impressed with the book, and is looking forward to taking it with us on our trip to Europe this Fall. Go to Amazon

Who Needs to Travel? With this book, you need not spend a fortune to visit Europe! After all, your chances of spotting a 'two-barred crossbill' or an "azure-winged magpie" are not the best anyway. You might as well spare all that jet fuel -- save the Earth from touristigenic climate change -- keep this book by your armchair and gasp in surprise at the hundreds of species of "Old World" birds, beautifully illustrated and intelligently described herein. Hey, did you know that there are at least fifty-two species of thrushes in Europe? And five of nightjars? Aside from admiring the illustrations, you'll find this book highly useful for reading and enjoying English literature -- Shakespeare and the Lake District poets especially -- as you learn the differences between siskins and serins, or between choughs, rooks, jackdaws, and ordinary crows! Go to Amazon

Good Value and lot of Information We own many birding guides and have been amateur birders for more than two decades. Many of our travels include birding and this trip was no different, except all the sitings were life birds! We took a river cruise for seven days down the Rhine River. A total of ten days in Europe. The drawings were similar to Peterson's guides and had tips much like the National Geographic bird guide. We were extremely lucky to have met a fellow birder from the British Isles with a great scope on board. This comprehensive guide was easy to pack for shore excursions. It will be useful for further travel plans in Europe but we will also contact a local Audubon group for trying to find "hot spots" and seasonal migration shifts. Overall, a very good value and addition to our guide collection. Go to Amazon

Easy-to-use field guide I haven't had a chance to use it much yet, but I'm very pleased with the ease of use, information and general presentation that I've seen so far. There is a color plate opposite each page of text, much easier to use than the guides that concentrate the color plates in one section. The little range maps for each species are very helpful. Go to Amazon

Five Stars ... for my first trip to Europe and it didn't disappoint. Good illustrations Five Stars Birding in Iceland ... a different cover - although the Collins guide is recommended by Europeans Four Stars Be cautious if buying this with the Collins Guide Five Stars Five Stars Definitely a must have identification book for Europe.

#biological #science #book

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destinyhixon-blog · 5 years

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We grabbed the bargain for 3 days in Budapest, 6 months ago. We don’t usually plan so much ahead, unless the trip multi-day hiking or other outdoor activities. Budapest was awarded as European Best Destination for 2019.

We knew we would be in Budapest, Hungary for sightseeing. The city has to show a great amount of history through its architecture, landmarks and tasteful cuisine. Read our guide on how to eat the best food in Budapest (street food and restaurants).

Budapest has been featured in many movies as a location where action movies related to spies were partially or completely filmed. Some of them are: Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol, Red Heat, Hellboy II: The Golden Army, Transporter 3, Underworld Evolution, World War Z, A Good Day to Die Hard, Evita and many more.

It was one of our bucket list things: to spend 3 days in Budapest and experience as much as possible. It was proved that you need more than 3 days, as Budapest is a city of many layers.

Best Things to Do in 3 Days in Budapest

Budapest carries lots of the Old Europe essence. It is indeed a city with a huge historical center. Furthermore, if you want to do what a good traveler must do (aka, walk a lot) you will see even more things that are in the center of Budapest.

Great architecture, luxurious SPA facilities hosted inside old buildings, even more castles and great parks are everywhere. Many think that it is a small European city when you compare it to other popular ones. It is not that small. The city surprises you with how well it is kept through the ages; far beyond the center.

Why to Walk through the Budapest City Center?

Of course you need to walk. Walking is the way to get familiar with a place. Get a hop on/hop off bus if you like but combine it with lots of walking.

Maybe you are a fan of river cruises in such cities. Usually it is not the best option, as rivers are -of course- far lower from the street level and as you sit there you see things for a very diminished position.

Downtown Budapest, walking next to the river

One of the emotional charged areas in the city center is next to the river. There, a memorial installation takes place. You have seen that in pictures. The sculptures are different kinds, sizes and sets of boots and shoes sculpted in metal. The installation is called “Shoes at the Danube River” (sculptor: Gyula Pauer).

Shoes at the Danube River

They represent the execution of Jews during the WWII period, by the local fascist militia. It is a true story. All these people were aligned next to the river bank, ordered to take off their shoes and they were shot to fall in the river.

Another one is the magnificent Parliament building, also related to the rough communist period of this country. The underground museum presents and explains what happened during the Hungarian Revolution of 1956, with videos, pictures and narrations.

Parliament

Next to the Parliament, stop and take a break. Have a peach frappé at Smúz. It is like milk-shake but (to our opinion) far more tasty.

Do visit the Vajdahunyad Castle, close to the Heroes Square (Hősök tere).

Vajdahunyad Castle

That is a really big area that includes a castle and a park with lakes. You can rent a car-shaped kayak-like “boat” and get through the lake.

Walk the Széchenyi Chain Bridge; the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary. When it was built, it was regarded as one of the modern world’s engineering marvels.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

St. Stephen’s Basilica. It took its name after king Stephen, the first king of Hungary. It is the largest church in Budapest.

St. Stephen’s Basilica from the front

Why to Explore the Buda Castle Hill?

We advise to approach the Buda Castle Hill area during your first or last day there, as this is a really big area, far from a simple castle. Have in mind that you might spend half a day on this area, or even more.

Aspect of the castle from afar

It is so big that the view to Budapest changes as you walk all around the enormous hill.

Aspect form a location at Buda Castle Hill

From this aspect (above) you see another hill afar, that hosts the enormous monument of the Liberty Statue.

Fisherman’s Bastion, nead Buda Castle is a structure that looks like a fortified wall, surrounding part of the hill. It is famous famous for its turrets and for spires. You can pay a ticket and get through the turrets for a view to the city of Budapest, though you can see the same from other corners of the same area, without paying anything.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Close to the bastion is the amazingly looking Matthias church, with the famous Holy Trinity statue.

Matthias church, with the famous Holy Trinity statue

Matthias Fountain is located in the court of the Buda Castle. It is sometimes called the “Trevi Fountain of Budapest”. Here is an interesting story for some secrets related to this fountain.

Matthias Fountain

Budatower is also here. This is the church of Saint Mary Magdalene and the oldest building in Kapisztran square. It was built in late Gothic style. You can pay a ticket and get to the top for a surrounding view.

Budatower aspect

Why to Visit the Margaret Island (Margitsziget) Park in Central Budapest?

If you have a few hours to spare and want to walk in -what we called as- the Central Park of Budapest, then you need to visit this island. You can walk there as you cross one of the bridges. It is in the middle of the river.

There are lots of recreational areas, a sports center and many paths to walk. It is a nice break and you can have fun either walking through (you will need 2 to 3 hours just to walk it) or rent a double-bicycle (or even a quad-bicycle).

Cycling through the Margaret Island

We had so much fun. We took one for 1 hour and stopped at different areas taking photos.

There are restaurants, cafe’s, bars and many things for kids, parents and couples to do.

There are parks and many areas to rest and relax at Margaret Island

3 Days in Budapest.. Where to Eat?

From “plain” sausages, to “complex” Goulash’s, fried bread and chimney cakes, Budapest has lots of intriguing foods to taste.

Goulash (Gulyásleves) soup

Seek out for genuine local food and totally avoid any “tourist traps”. We had both. Read our complete post for the best food in Budapest from here.

Do not neglect to drink the famous Palinka drink. Especially after eating a lot, it will boost your digestion process. Read our food post for that too.

Which Museums to Visit for 3 Days in Budapest?

Budapest was awarded as European Best Destination for 2019. Get the Budapest Card to have access to 17+ museums, tours, transportation, restaurants and more. For 3 days, that is a whole lot of museums and you won’t be able to see them all.

One that is a must-see is the History Museum at the Buda Castle. Ιt covers a big range of the 2000 years of Budapest (once separated into: Buda, Pest and Obuda).

Exhibits in the history museum

Exhibitions go back from the Roman times to present days, all shown in wonderful palatial rooms.

Exhibits from different rooms

Beyond the History museum and with limited time in the city, choose to visit the following ones. Use this link for pre-booking on these (better book ahead).

Hungarian National Gallery

Museum of Music History

Museum of Military History

House of Houdini

Pharmacy Museum

Museum of Telephones

Hospital in the Rock

Things to Know for Budapest

Where to Stay for 3 Days in Budapest?

Choose to stay in the centre of Budapest, as all things you need to see are there. The center is big and you will walk it anyway.

We went there in May and prices were good. Our accommodation was the BP Heritage Guesthouse. It had a 9.5 rating in Booking.com, really big rooms and well equipped, but a poor breakfast (didn’t expect that).

Weather in Budapest

Not so good during winter as the city is at the north of Hungary, close to Slovakia. If you like cold though, it is fine too.

In May, weather was shifting from warm to slightly chilly but it was ideal for all the walking we did. Best season to visit is from March to May (best prices for accommodation too) and from September to November.

Summer is hot with more tourists, but for sure not as hot as in a Mediterranean country (i.e. Greece, Italy, Spain).

There are some key events taking place in different months. Here they are, so you can plan ahead.

March to May Dance Festival Macaron Day Spring Festival Budapest100 Rosalia Festival OTP Bank Gourmet Festival Beer Week

June to August Summer Festival Danube Carnival Budapest Pride Vajdahunyad Castle Summer Music Festival

Sziget Festival Festival of Folk Arts

September to November Jewish Cultural Festival Budapest Wine Festival Sweet Days Chocolate and Candy Festival Oktoberfest Budapest Design Week Budapest

December to February Christmas Markets Dance Festival

Budapest Currency

Euro is accepted in Hungary but not in all places and you will get your change in the local currency: the Hungarian Forint (HUF).

The analogy to Euro is 320 HUF for 1 Euro (May 2019).

If you think that it is a really big difference (for Euro, USD, Sterling and other) and you have a benefit then it is not, as the prices are adjusted towards the “strong” currency.

No worries for getting cash as there are Exchange kiosks everywhere. Credit cards are popular but not accepted everywhere. The same with other than HUF currencies.

Budapest Nightlife & Getting Around

It is a very vivid city. If you plan to be 3 days in Budapest, or more then you will find lots and lots of options for dining and some pretty good cocktails.

We had some and they were relatively good.

Buses and taxis are everywhere, along with trams. You can get everywhere in the city when you learn how to catch each, but trust us you will walk most of the time.

If you have time you can go to the famous Thermal Baths of Budapest. These are:

Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Gellért Thermal Bath

Rudas Baths

After walking so much, they can be a really good option as they are hosted inside glamorous old buildings that are part of the history of the city. Széchenyi Thermal Baths are one of the largest bath complexes of Europe. Better reserve your place with a skip the line ticket from here.

It is a safe city, and we didn’t have a feeling of feeling unsafe during day time. Keep in mind that in weekends people party a lot here.

Budapest is a fantastic city in Europe and definitely worth’s to visit it.

Have fun.

The post Awesome 3 Days in Budapest 2019 – Read Before You Go! appeared first on AGreekAdventure World Travel Blog.

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la-appel-du-vide · 5 years

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THAILAND 2019 - Day Thirteen {Krabi}

After a relaxing beach day yesterday, our schedule was back to full today. We had a busy tour planned, with trips to the Emerald Pool/Blue Pool, the Klong Thom hot springs, and the Tiger Cave Temple. It was a pretty smooth morning, and we even got some more toast while we waited to be picked up.

Our only issue with the ride, was that we were the last ones to get picked up, so we didn’t get to sit together. I had to sit in the back with all the strangers, and Beach had to sit in the passenger seat next to the driver. It made for a kind of awkward 45 minute or so drive to the Emerald Pool. Once we got there, we piled out and the driver led us to a “tour guide,” who essentially just told us that we had an hour and a half to explore as we wanted before lunch. He showed us the trails to follow, and left it at that. We hiked about a mile to the Emerald Pool, but continued another 800 meters, whatever that means, to the Blue Pool first.

The Blue Pool is a stunning, deep blue color. You aren’t allowed to swim in it, so we just got to look. It is so clear too – you can see all of the logs right through it. I wish we could have swam there, and I’m not sure why you can’t? But I’m sure there is a reason. Still, fun to look at. But we were definitely getting hot.

So we walked back down the trail to the Emerald Pool and jumped right in. This water is just as it sounds – perfectly Emerald. Again, it was so clear, you could look right through it and I loved that so much. It was wonderfully cool, and we enjoyed swimming around for awhile before we had to head back down for lunch. This was my main issue with this tour – everything felt a little rushed. We just needed more time in each spot. But the water felt so good, and it was a nice break after our “hike.”

Beach and I left a bit later than we should have, so we were a little late for lunch. But it all turned out fine. We had cashew chicken stir-fry and hot and sour chicken soup (just like I made in class!). It wasn’t terrible, but the best part was the fresh watermelon. I wished we could have had more of the watermelon, it was delicious.

Then we piled back in the van for a ten-minute drive to our next stop – the Klong Thom hot springs. They looked beautiful in photos, and lived up to it in person. We had to walk down to them again, which got hot of course. But this time, instead of the refreshing Emerald Pool water, we got in the hot springs hahaha. The water was like 95 degrees, and it was 98 degrees outside, so you can imagine that it didn’t feel too good. There were warning signs in the area telling people to only stay in the water for less than 20 minutes. I’m pretty sure no one even wanted to stay in longer than that, but even if they did, they’d definitely overheat. The hot springs were gorgeous though, and I love how all hot springs seem to form smaller subsections, making a lot of little pools in one.

Good news though – running along the hot springs was a river, and the temperature was just perfect. We climbed down the dock, and got to cool off, which was much needed at that point. My only regret, is that while I was swimming, I ended up kicking a big rock with my shin SO HARD. It hurt so much, and left a giant goose egg. Ow.

But still – a perfect, afternoon swim.

Then we walked back to the van to head to our final stop of the day, which was one we were equally excited for and dreading (that happens to us a lot it seems haha) – The Tiger Cave Temple! We’d heard great things about it, and it was supposed to be absolutely beautiful, with a gorgeous view, BUT the catch is, to see it you had to climb 1,271 stairs. O. M. G. I don’t even like climbing stairs on a good day, let alone in Thailand’s heat and humidity.

But hey, when in Krabi, you do all the things. It’s just the principle. (;

We pulled in, and the “tour guide” pointed us toward the stairs and said we would have an hour and 45 minutes until we left. He told us that on average, it takes people 45 minutes to get up the stairs and 30 minutes to get down. We were determined, so we grabbed some water bottles and headed that direction. Of course, because it was a temple, we got stopped because we were wearing shorts, and they made us rent long skirts to wear.

We put them on for a minute, but once we hit the stairs, we couldn’t take it anymore and we had to take them off. No way was I going to climb almost 1,300 stairs in a long skirt.

ESPECIALLY ONCE WE SAW THE STAIRS. They shouldn’t even BE CALLED STAIRS. I’d say the more accurate term is VERTICAL CONCRETE LADDER OF DEATH WITH PRONGS 2 FEET APART OH MY. We stood at the bottom and looked up at the ghastly climb ahead, did a couple Hail Mary’s, and started up.

I am not exaggerating when I say this was one of the hardest physical activities we have ever put ourselves through. We literally had to stop like every 100-200 steps because we were so freaking winded, and our legs were on FIRE. I can’t believe how bad it was. We’d take a couple minutes to catch our breath and give our legs a rest, and then we’d push on another few minutes. It took us closer to an hour to make the climb, but I was real proud that we made it.

You’d think for as often as we go to the gym, we would have done better than that… but no. It was the actual worst thing. There’s NO gym with a stair-stepper that could prepare you for that. Promise.

Once we finally got to the top – soaked in sweat and tears – we really did enjoy the view. It’s amazing to me that somehow, the Thai people built this giant Buddha on top of a mountain like this. Howwww. How did they do that? I could barely get myself up there, let alone like a million pounds of gold.

The breeze up there was great, we could see for miles, and it was really enjoyable. But once again, we felt rushed because he said that the average person takes half an hour to get down, and we only had half an hour until we were supposed to meet them at the van. So reluctantly, we headed back down.

We CRUISED going down, especially compared to the way up. It was less of a big deal, though you still had to be careful stepping down the extremely steep stairs, because one mis-step and you’d be falling down the mountain.

The coolest part was that we ran into SO MANY MONKEYS on the way down, which is sort of weird because we didn’t see any going up. But literally, there were tons. Sitting on the stairs, jumping through the trees, playing with each other, climbing the stair railings, taking people’s water bottles… it was unreal. I’ve never been so close to wild monkeys. It actually made us a little nervous, because the tour guide had warned us we might encounter them and showed us photos of monkey attacks on tourists. I guess it’s really important not to touch them or approach them, because they’re aggressive, and they’ll bite. Knowing that, we were tip-toeing around them, and I’d get nervous when the bigger ones would seem to stare me down. Ahhhh hahaha. I didn’t want to go to a Thai hospital for a rabies shot! It’s ok though, we made it down monkey bite free. So it was really cool.

We had like five minutes to spare, so we went quickly to check out the tiger cave part of the temple. Legend says that a giant tiger used to live in the cave, and roar at night to warn off predators, until a Buddhist priest moved in and took over the territory. Then the tiger was never seen again.

We walked into the cave, and quickly got reprimanded to put our skirts back on. The lady tied them up for us real quick. Oops.

It was all marble on the inside, and we climbed up a few stairs to see the smaller parts of the cave. A beautiful little temple overall, but we liked the top view the best. (Though this one was WAY less of a problem to get too.)

We returned our skirts, and went back to the van for our rides home. We were actually one of the first groups to get dropped off, which never happens! We had originally thought we’d be last like usual, so we could ask to be dropped off near Walking Street to find some dinner, but it didn’t work out like that.

In the end, it’s probably better. We got to shower, so we weren’t so nasty walking around at night. We got a taxi back to our little restaurant we loved from the first day, but it was crazy busy. We ended up wandering the night market while we waited for a table to open up for us. Beach decided to buy a Thai pancake from one of the booths, cause we were starving. We’d seen them a lot of places, but hadn’t ever tried one, so she just sent it and got one topped with chocolate and sugar. It was actually super delicious! I was impressed! I decided I’d have to get one after dinner.

Dinner was great, too. I tried to order pasta, but apparently they were out of it. So I ended up panicking and ordering a BLT, which is unlike me, but it turned out to be really good. Plus, we got some beautiful milkshakes. They sure can make pretty food. Also at dinner, we saw our European doppelgangers. And by that I mean, sitting next to us were two girls backpacking around Thailand, and during dinner, they whipped out Skip-Bo! They carry cards while they travel together, just like us. We were impressed.

We were so full after dinner, but I got a Thai pancake anyway. I thought I could try banana with mine, but it went differently than I’d pictured. I thought she would just slice it up and place the bananas on top, but she ended up cooking it inside the pancake. I’m weird about eating warm fruit, so I didn’t love it. Beach’s was definitely better. Lesson learned the hard way I suppose.

Then we got a taxi back to our hotel, so we could figure out what we wanted to do on our free day the next day.

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hudsonespie · 4 years

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American Jazz the Third Modern American Riverboat Completes Trials

The American Jazz, the third in a series of five modern riverboats that American Cruise Lines is building, completed her trials and has been delivered to the cruise line. The 190-passenger river cruise ship was built at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland, a sister company to the cruise line, which is also owned by the Robinson family.

Last week, with the U.S. Coast Guard aboard, the American Jazz underwent speed trials, an endurance run, and was thoroughly tested in all areas of safety and maneuverability. The new ship possesses the latest safety equipment, as well as a range of environmentally friendly technology. It is EPA Tier 4 compliant on emissions and use green technologies including LED lighting.

The ship is part of a new generation of modern riverboats being built to operate on the Mississippi River. Unlike the traditional image of paddlewheelers, which the company also operates, these new vessels with six decks have unique features including a multi-level glass atrium and a patented opening bow with a retractable gangway for landings when a suitable pier is not available. Passenger features also include several lounges, a grand dining room, fitness center, and a new feature of a wellness-yoga studio, as well as large outdoor spaces and a cafe. Accommodations aboard the American Jazz are also among the largest in the river cruise industry with standard staterooms from 300 to 350 square feet and full-size sliding glass doors out to a private furnished balcony. There are also single occupancy cabins and suites up to 650 square feet and all cabins has a private balcony.

“American Jazz and the modern riverboats we currently have under construction demonstrate our commitment to leading the U.S. river cruise market by adding new small ships each year,” said Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines. “The outlook for 2021 is tremendous and we look forward to American Jazz’s first full season on the Mississippi, as well as the introduction of American Melody, the next new ship to follow in our modern riverboat series.”

Since 2017, American Cruise Lines has debuted five new ships expanding its fleet to 12 ships in 2020, with more new builds coming in 2021 and 2022. The first modern American riverboat, the American Song, was introduced in 2018. American Cruise Lines had hoped to restart cruising in the summer but due to the pandemic its ships remain idle. Depending on the process of the virus and local restrictions, the company is hoping to resume limited service in the fall of 2020.

This expansion comes at a time of growing interest in closer to home travel and in river cruising. The market has seen growing competition and in March 2020 Viking, a leader in European river cruising, announced plans to introduce its first American river cruises. The company plans to launch its first ship on the Mississippi, the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi, in 2022.

American Jazz looks very different than the traditional image of paddlewheel steamers operating on the Mississippi River - photo courtesy American Cruise Lines

from Storage Containers https://maritime-executive.com/article/american-jazz-the-third-modern-american-riverboat-completes-trials via http://www.rssmix.com/

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charllieeldridge · 4 years

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25 Best Things To Do in Chicago, Illinois

There are endless things to do in Chicago and the city surprised us (in a good way) with its bustling downtown core, expansive green spaces, modern art displays, Michelin-starred restaurants and charming neighbourhoods!

No matter your age or travel style, you’ll find sights and activities in Chicago that will pique your interest.

We recently spent a week in the Windy City and could have lingered much longer. With so many exciting things to do in Chicago (and eat!), try to give yourself at least 5 days to explore.

And, contrary to belief, this city is actually one of the best places to visit in January due to having so many indoor sights and amazing festivals during that time.

In this article, I’m going to list not only the obvious things to do in Chicago, but some of the more off-track sites and experiences that we had — and highly recommend.

Note: Don’t miss our travel video of Chicago at the end of this post!

Getting Around Chicago

Thankfully, even though Chicago is a sprawling city of just under 3 million people, the efficient transportation systems make getting around easy and stress-free, with elevated rail lines giving you excellent views of the city while you ride.

Getting from the Airport to Downtown Chicago

Taking public transport (CTA – Chicago Transit Authority) from the airport is the most budget-friendly option. It’s also very straightforward.

The Blue Line runs 24 hours from the O’Hare Airport to downtown Chicago. The journey takes about 40-45 minutes and the cost is $5 (less if you have an unlimited ride pass which you can pick up at the airport and at vending machines around the city).

If you’re arriving at the Chicago Midway International Airport, you can hop on the Orange Line for a 20-25 minute ride to the downtown loop area.

To pay for these journeys, purchase a Ventra card from one of the vending machines at the airport train stations, at Ventra Vending Machines, or over 1,000 Ventra Retailers around the city.

You can buy 1 journey, 1 day or 3-day tickets. The machines accept cash, credit or debit. Click here to learn more about the transport options from the Chicago airports to the downtown area.

Getting Around Chicago

Once you’re in the city, the best ways to get around Chicago are by walking and cycling, or by train, bus and rideshare.

You’ll need to figure out how many times you think you’ll take the CTA buses or trains, and then purchase the appropriate Ventra Card.

If you think you’ll only ride the train or bus a couple of times, you can save money by purchasing individual rides (usually $2.50) and pay as you go.

1 Day CTA Pass for $10 3 Day CTA Pass for $20 7 Day CTA Pass for $28

For maps of the various train lines in the city, click here.

Uber and Lyft are the most popular rideshare companies in Chicago and are frequently used by locals and visitors.

I recommend downloading the Uber and Lyft apps so you can easily get around and enjoy all of the things to do in Chicago.

Google Maps also allows you to call ride shares directly from the app, so you can decide if you want to walk the distance, cycle, use public transport or call an Uber.

City Attraction Passes in Chicago

Since there are so many amazing attractions and things to do in Chicago, you’ll want to consider purchasing an attractions pass. There are 2 main discount cards available:

1. CityPass Chicago

This pass includes:

Shedd Aquarium – Priority Entry

Skydeck Chicago – Fast Pass

The Field Museum – VIP Entry

Museum of Science and Industry OR 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck – Express Entry

Adler Planetarium – VIP Entry OR Art Institute of Chicago – Fast Pass

The cost of the CityPass is $106 for adults and $89 for children aged 3 – 11, and it’s valid for 9 consecutive days.

If you were to visit all of the attractions listed above without the CityPass, it would cost you $217.90.

You need to first decide how many attractions you want to visit while in Chicago and figure out if the CityPass is right for you. Click here to learn more and to purchase the pass.

2. Go Chicago Card

The Go Chicago Card is different from the CityPass in that you are granted free entry to 25 attractions during a set period.

As with the CityPass, you’ll need to add up the attractions you plan to visit and see if this discount card is worth it. Choose between these passes:

“All You Can Do in…”

1 day – $109 for adults, $69 for kids.

2 days – $154 for adults, $109 for kids.

3 days – $184 for adults, $129 for kids.

5 days – $219 for adults, $149 for kids.

By my calculations, if you were to visit the SkyDeck ($24), 360 Chicago ($23), Art Institute of Chicago with Fast Pass ($35), the Ferris Wheel at the Navy Pier ($15) and the Architecture River Cruise ($43), then the cost would be $140.

This makes the 1 day pass worthwhile — and it’s only $14 shy of the cost of the 2-day pass.

These are the included attractions in the Go Chicago Card:

• SkyDeck Chicago • 360 CHICAGO • Field Museum (Admission plus one special exhibit ) • Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Chicago: 1-Day Classic Tour • Art Institute of Chicago – Fast Pass Admission • Museum of Science and Industry • Adler Planetarium • Chicago Children’s Museum • Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center • Chicago History Museum • Chicago Architecture Foundation • Museum of Contemporary Art • Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio Tour • Robie House • Historic Chicago South Shore Tour • Grand Tour • Panoramic and Scenic North Side Tour • Chicago Theatre Tour • Brookfield Zoo • Bike and Roll Chicago • Chicago Architecture River Cruise • Tall Ship WINDY • Classic Lake Tour • Lincoln Park Zoo Rides

For more information and details, and to purchase the Go Chicago Card, click here.

Here’s my guide for the top 25 things to do in Chicago during your next trip.

1. Walk – Everywhere!

I had to put this first on the list.

Taking transport is a great way to get around the city, but by walking, you’ll be able to experience all of the in-between bits that makes Chicago so great.

Plus, you’ll be able to burn off some of those calories you’ve consumed after eating so well!

Gaze up at the towering skyscrapers in the downtown area, or saunter down quiet streets in one of the 77+ surrounding neighbourhoods.

There are no real hills in Chicago, the sidewalks are well taken care of and you don’t need to worry about falling off any uneven curbs. If you get tired, call an Uber or hop on the train.

2. Attend a Festival

Chicago is known for hosting many, many festivals.

There are too many to list here, but if you’re interested in music, food, fashion, film, sports, culture, flowers and everything in between, you’ll find a festival that you enjoy.

During the summer months, don’t miss these events:

1. Taste of Chicago

This food/music festival has been running since 1980 and is the largest food festival in the world!

Here you’ll enjoy cuisine from around the globe — Indian, Thai, American, Caribbean, Mexican, European, and much more.

The grounds at Grant Park are free to enter, but you purchase tickets to exchange for sample portions of food, or full meals.

A strip of 14 tickets will run you $10 and a taster portion of food will cost you about 6 tickets.

Make sure you bring your own water though because 500mL of bottled water at the festival will cost you $8! Click here to learn more about the Taste of Chicago, which is held in July.

2. Windy City Smokeout

For BBQ, beer and country music fans, this festival is one you don’t want to miss!

I really feel like this is one of the best things to do in Chicago in the summer and it was probably our favourite festival during our 5-day visit.

There’s a grandstand here that hosts the main music performances, plus another smaller stage towards the back. Wander around and let your nose guide you towards billowing smokers, where 20+ pitmasters from around the country grill up tender meat.

There’s no shortage of succulent, smokey ribs, tasty brisket, pit-roasted pork, and grilled chicken at this event.

Also, make sure to sample some of the craft beers on tap, many of which are from Chicago. I recommend the IPAs from Moody and Tongue and Goose Island. Click here to learn more about the fun Windy City Smokeout event, which is held in July.

3. Grant Park Music Festival

If you’re into classical music, chorus, orchestras and FREE concerts, then don’t miss this one.

Grab a lawn chair or a blanket, pack a picnic and some wine and head down to Millennium Park at the Jay Pritzker Pavillion.

This classical music festival is held yearly for 10 weeks from June to August and has been for more than 80 years. Click here to learn more about the Grant Park Music Festival.

4. Chicago Blues Festival

incredibly, this is another free festival in Chicago!

Not only is entrance free, but it’s the largest music festival in the city. Head down to Millennium Park for the weekend of Jun 8 – 10th and enjoy the show. (more about Blues music in #22 on this list).

3. Go On an Architecture River Cruise

Even if architecture really isn’t your thing, don’t miss the Chicago Architecture River Cruise.

Chicago has numerous towering skyscrapers, and smaller warehouses along the Chicago River, all of which have a story.

Rather than guessing for yourself, the guide on the boat tour will give you some history and describe the design style, all while you sip on a beer and enjoy the sunshine.

We joined the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady and enjoyed the trip. The guide provided excellent information, there was a bathroom and a bar on board and the ship was quite comfortable. The tour is highly rated on TripAdvisor.

There are numerous companies to go with. Shoreline Sightseeing is another highly rated option.

4. Get a Bird’s Eye View (one of the most amazing things to do in Chicago!)

After you’ve seen Chicago by foot and by boat, it’s time to get an aerial view of the city.

A helicopter ride is on pretty much everyone’s bucket list and after flying high above Chicago on a sunset trip, I can say that this truly is something you don’t want to miss.

Together with 5 other people (plus the pilot), you’ll don a headset and soar above Chicago, passing by the Lakefront, Navy Pier and more. The pilot provides information about the buildings down below and will answer any questions you have.

I honestly think that this is one of the best value things to do in Chicago. $138 for a sunset flight in a helicopter over Chicago is worth every penny and is something you’ll never forget. Click here to learn more and to book this tour

*Pro-tip: bring a GoPro camera or some sort of fish eye lens for your smartphone, as it’s hard to get selfies in such a contained space.

5. Visit The Neighbourhoods

As I said above, there are over 77 neighbourhoods in Chicago, each with its own vibe and things to do. Being downtown is great, but try to visit a few of the different neighbourhoods in Chicago.

Our favourite was Pilsen, which was once a predominantly Slavic community, but since the 1960’s it has been home to many Hispanic residents, mostly Mexicans.

Among other things, Pilsen offers bright street art, Mexican food, the National Museum of Mexican Art and the Thalia Music Hall.

Make sure you visit the Mexican museum here to learn about the current issue of gentrification that is effecting Pilsen and some other parts of Chicago.

Wander around at your own pace and enjoy the ‘hood.

Stop in at Jumping Bean for coffee, Canton Regio for Mexican food (and BYOB!), and Michelin starred Dusek’s Board & Beer for tasty cuisine and beers. 3 – 4 hours in Pilsen is plenty of time to explore many of the back streets and funky shops.

Other interesting communities include:

Near West Side: offering fantastic restaurant choices, boutique shops and street art (check out Randolph Street and Fulton Market), this is the foodie hotspot. Check out Michelin starred Girl and The Goat restaurant and have a coffee at the trendy Soho House.

Wicker Park / Bucktown: known for vintage shops, craft cocktails and chilled out spots, spend an afternoon here shopping, dining and checking out the 606 which runs through these neighbourhoods (more on the 606 at #10 on this list). Grab a brew from MapRoom Taphouse, or cool off with an Italian Ice from Miko’s.

Logan Square: an area with a strong sense of community and support of local businesses…with a side of hipster vibes, craft beer and live music. Here you’ll find some of Chicago’s best restaurants, don’t miss Fat Rice (Macanese fusion) and Mi Tocaya Antojeria (Mexican cuisine).

Lincoln Park: a mix of city and nature, Lincoln Park offers a massive green space complete with a lakefront trail and sandy beaches. In this neighbourhood you can listen to blues music, party all night long, go shopping at trendy boutiques, or grab a bike and ride the trails. Try a hotdog from Wiener’s Circle (more on that at #9 on this list) and some Korean chicken at Crisp.

Andersonville: this fun area is home to one of Chicago’s largest gay communities, and is known for being a diverse part of the city. Go to the theatre, devour a tasty burger at Little Bad Wolf and sip on a craft beer from Hopleaf.

6. Dangle Above the City

Conquer your fears and head to the SkyDeck Observatory at the Willis Tower (Sears Tower) and enjoy amazing views of Chicago.

This is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and for good reason! There are 4 glass boxes (ledges) protruding from the top of the Willis Tower where you can walk out on 1.5 inches of glass.

On a clear day, you can see Chicago, plus the 3 neighbouring states of Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. This is one of the most Instagrammed spots in the city, and one of the most popular things to do in Chicago.

I’m personally terrified of heights and was able to stand (and sit) on this platform.

If you’re nervous as well, know that you are able to inch your way out at your own pace and you can have one foot on “solid” ground and one on the box if it makes you feel more comfortable. Click here to learn more and book tickets for the SkyDeck Experience.

7. Do a Cheese Pull

Inevitably, on your quest for things to do in Chicago, you’ll hear a lot of talk (and debate) about the best pizza in Chicago, but, after sampling a couple, we’ve come to the conclusion that our favourite was Giordano’s.

Now, there are numerous other places that we didn’t get to try, so I suggest going on a hunt for the best pizza and seeing what you come up with.

Giordano’s offers made to order deep dish and thin crust pizzas — taking around 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook.

The pizzas here are tasty, but most importantly, the cheese is incredibly stringy, giving you that ultimate Instagram cheese pull photo. This is one of the best places to eat in Chicago.

8. Explore The Lakefront Trail

Once you’ve got your fill of the city, one of the best things to do in Chicago to get some fresh air is to head to the lakefront.

At 494 kilometers long and 190 kilometers wide, Lake Michigan is the largest of the Great Lakes and is actually the 6th largest freshwater lake on earth.

Looking at it, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it’s actually more of an ocean than a lake as it even has tidal shifts.

The Lakefront Trail is an uninterrupted, 29 kilometers (18 miles) long, pedestrian-only route. It’s the perfect place for cycling, rollerblading, jogging, or walking.

Along the way, you’ll pass by beautiful beaches, perfect for laying down a towel and going for a swim. Check out Kathy Osterman Beach and Montrose Beach.

To get here, hop on an Uber and choose a point along the trail that you’d like to be dropped off at. I recommend arriving at Kathy Osterman Beach and cycling to Lincoln Park. Which brings me to #9…

9. Rent a Divvy Bike

Divvy Bikes are a great way to explore Chicago — especially along the vehicle-free Riverwalk, 606 walkway, and the Lakefront trail.

These shared bikes are affordable and make for a unique way of getting around the city. Whether you want to just get from point a to point b, or spend a day cycling around, these bicycles are a great transportation option.

Rent yourself a Divvy bike at one of the stations around Chicago and set off to explore the Lakefront Trail at your own pace.

With Divvy bikes, you can rent for 30 minutes ($3) or 24 hours ($15), and pick up and drop off at different locations around the city.

Download the Divvy app to learn where to find bike stations, and whether or not there are any bikes currently docked there.

*Pro-tip: there aren’t any baskets on the front of the bikes, just a bungee cord, so make sure you bring a backpack or something to put your water and sunscreen in.

10. Get Insulted While Eating a Hot Dog

Chicago has numerous iconic foods and snacks, one of which is, of course, a hot dog! Eaten at ball games, tailgate parties, BBQs and on the street, sampling a Chicago style dog while you’re here is a must.

If you’re looking for a hotdog with a side of sass, profanity, and heckling, then make sure to visit The Wiener’s Circle in Lincoln Park.

During the day, it’s a pretty chilled out place, but after 8:00pm and well into the night, it’s a joint that you probably don’t want to bring your kids to.

The staff here make fun of patrons, throwing curse words and insults at everyone who enters! It’s all in good fun though and everyone laughs at each other, and themselves. This institution has been here for over 30 years, and is still going strong.

Wondering where to stay in Chicago?

We stayed in the ideally located Loews Hotel Downtown, and were just steps to the river, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and more.

There’s a fabulous rooftop bar and lounge area (perfect for a sundowner) and the onsite travel themed “ETA” restaurant serves up tasty, seasonal meals. The rooms are luxurious and comfortable and offer amazing views – either of the cityscape or the Navy Pier.

If you’re feeling energetic, head down to the gym or for a swim in the 75-foot long lap pool, and if you’d rather relax, head to the calming spa. The staff here are warm, welcoming and incredibly helpful! Click here to learn more about the hotel and to book a room.

11. Wander Along the 606

The 606 is to Chicago what the Highline is to New York, and at only 5 years old, it’s one of the newest things to do in Chicago.

Once an abandoned railway line, this raised trail and green space is now a place for Chicagoans to cycle, jog, walk, skateboard, or rollerblade away from the traffic – from 6:00am to 11:00pm.

Named after the shared zip code prefix of this area of Chicago, the 606 is located in the neighbourhoods of Logan Park, Humboldt Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park and spans 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles).

This is another great spot to rent a Divvy bike! Click here to learn more about the 606 and to see a map of the area.

12. Tilt Over The City

Yet another adrenaline-inducing thing to do in Chicago!

The “Tilt” is located at the 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the North Michigan Avenue Building (John Hancock Center). If you want to see the city from 314m (1,030 feet) above the ground, while tilting over the building to the streets below, then this is the ride for you.

Basically, you stand against a glass wall facing outwards. Holding onto handles, the glass wall then extends and tilts downwards giving you amazing views of the streets and buildings below.

If you’re feeling uncomfortable, don’t worry, you’re free to step back away from the glass at any time.

If you just want to visit the 94th floor for a drink and to enjoy the incredible sunset views over the city, that’s also possible. Tilting is just an added attraction. Click here to learn more and to purchase tickets for the Tilt.

13. Chow Down on Some Popcorn

Popcorn is one of Chicago’s most popular snacks, so before you say “eating popcorn shouldn’t be considered one of the best things to do in Chicago”, try Garrett’s and you’ll realize why it’s on the list.

This gourmet popcorn shop is located all around the city and offers various flavours — almond caramel crisp, cheese, butter, cashew caramel, macadamia caramel…or mixed.

I recommend the mix of caramel crisp and cheddar cheese. Sweet and savoury! Click here for locations.

14. Hangout By The Chicago River

The Chicago River snakes its way through the city and up until 2016, there wasn’t a way for pedestrians to walk along the river bank.

These days, you can enjoy the new riverwalk which runs for 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) from Lakeshore Drive to Lake Street, giving locals and visitors the opportunity to walk, run, dine and relax along the river.

This walkway is a great addition to the city. Not only can you enjoy some vehicle-free exercise, check out the public art and enjoy the surrounding architecture, but there are numerous places to eat and drink!

Pull up a chair, play some games, or watch the boats go by at the Island Party Hut (beers $7.50, cocktails $14). Grab a glass of wine and some appetizers and people watch at City Winery, or devour some BBQ while enjoying live music at Tiny Tapp.

15. Shop ’til You Drop

As with most big cities in the world, Chicago is home to an incredible shopping scene. From high-end fashion and cute boutiques to low-cost outlets and chains, there’s a shop for you in Chicago.

The Magnificent Mile spans 8 city blocks from Michigan Avenue Bridge to Oak Street and is one of the top spots for shopping in the city.

Here you’ll find designer shops such as Burberry, Chanel, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren, standing next to the department stores of Saks, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus.

Mixed in with all of these stand-alone shops, you’ll find 3 malls offering souvenirs, toys, sporting goods, makeup, and of course, clothing.

Finally, after your credit card has taken a beating, pop into one of the many restaurants, cafes or bars and grab a bite. For something a little more upscale, don’t miss Top Chef season 15 winner, Joe Flamm’s restaurant, Spiaggia.

The “Mag Mile” is your one-stop-shop for everything you could possibly need.

16. Ride a Ferris Wheel

The Navy Pier is a top landmark in the city and is a great place to enjoy the skyline, go for a walk, see the Crystal Gardens, watch a movie, see a fireworks display, and of course, ride the Ferris wheel.

Fun fact: George Washington Ferris invented the Ferris wheel, and the first one was built for the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Entrance to the Navy Pier is free, but if you want to ride the Ferris wheel, it costs $15.

17. Paddle a Kayak

Urban kayaking is one of the most popular things to do in Chicago. After you’ve joined the architecture boat tour and learned all about the buildings, why not grab yourself a kayak and paddle at your own pace?

There are a few companies in the city that offer kayaking tours on the Chicago River, or on Lake Michigan. But, if you feel like going solo, you can also rent a kayak at an hourly rate of around $25. Check out Water Riders or Kayak Chicago for more details.

Have an Instagram account? Check out our Highlights stories from a week in Chicago!

18. Rent a Boat (one of the best things to do in Chicago with friends)

If Kayaking isn’t your thing, you can also rent electric boats and do a self-drive trip up and down the river. That’s right, you get to be the captain! The boats are easy to drive, just like a golf cart.

The incredible thing about the fleet at the Chicago Electric Boat Company is that they’re all zero emissions. The boats can hold between 10 – 12 people and the rate is from $150 – $215 / hour.

When you divide that price among a group of people, it really is a good deal. See the Chicago Electric Boat Company for details. This is one of the most unique things to do in Chicago with friends.

19. Dine On Rib Eye and Wine

Chicago has one of the hottest food scenes in the country. Even if you don’t consider yourself a total foodie, you’ll be impressed with the cuisine on offer in the city.

If you’re looking for a succulent cut of beef, complemented with a robust glass of red, in a non-pretentious, yet classy atmosphere, then make sure you add RPM Steakhouse to your eating itinerary. This is one of the best places to eat in Chicago.

Not only is the menu seasonal and varied, but the service here is on point. Plus, if you’re not into steaks, there are many other options on the menu including salads, seafood and chicken.

I highly recommend the hamachi crudo, Mediterranean octopus, the rib eye, lobster, huckleberry cheesecake and chocolate cake. Yum!

20. Find The Street Art

Chicago’s artsy side is prevalent in its many public museums, galleries and park sculptures, but if you’re into a more bohemian, graffiti style of art, you’ll want to search for some of the cool street art scattered around the city.

You’ll find numerous murals in the Pilsen neighbourhood, plus a few dotted around Logan Square and Bucktown.

The B_line corridor in the Fulton Market meatpacking district has been recently revived and is now filled with colourful illustrations. Spanning a mile, the walls below the elevated B_line train tracks have been turned into spectacular pieces from artists around the world.

This area is a great example of an open-air art gallery. Wander down West Hubbard Street between Peoria and North Ogden Ave. to find the artwork. To learn more, check out the Instagram page.

21. Sip On Some Craft Beer

You don’t have to be a hipster to enjoy an icy cold glass of craft beer, and what better place to do so than in Chicago, a city that loves its beer.

According to this post, there are currently 72 breweries in the city and 132 in the suburbs!

Obviously, you won’t be able to visit them all on a short trip to Chicago, but definitely check out the IPAs, Ales, Stouts and Lagers on offer at these craft breweries and taprooms: Revolution Brewing, Goose Island and Moody Tongue.

Another great craft beer bar is the aptly named Map Room in Bucktown which has flags from around the world, and over 200 beers from various countries. Have fun wandering around and enjoying the best bars in Chicago!

22. Visit The Parks

There are numerous green spaces in Chicago, and tons of spots where you can lay down a blanket and enjoy a picnic in the sun. There are over 500 parks within the city limits, but make sure to check out these ones:

Millennium Park: home to the Cloud Gate / Bean sculpture, art and exhibition shows, concerts, outdoor workouts, outdoor concerts and dining.

Maggie Daley Park: this activity-filled park offers a climbing wall, playground, skating ribbon (ice in the winter, cement in the summer), mini-golf, tennis courts and much more.

Lincoln Park: located in the neighbourhood of the same name, Lincoln Park offers numerous lakeside cycling trails, beaches, museums, restaurants and a cultural center. This park is 1,208 acres (489-hectares) so make sure you give yourself some time to explore and relax.

*Note: Grant Park actually encompasses Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Museum Campus.

23. Enjoy a Night At The Theatre

Touted as the theatre capital of the USA, there are over 250 theatre companies in Chicago! From comedies and musicals to ballets and orchestras, there is a plethora of performances to see in the city.

In the downtown / Loop area, check out the Broadway shows at the Oriental Theatre, concerts at the Auditorium Theatre and popular musicals at the CIBC Theatre.

If you’re into comedies and improv, check out The Second City which is where the likes of Chris Farley, Bill Murray, Tina Fay and Steve Carrell started out.

24. Listen to Blues

For a fun night out in Chicago, I recommend checking out a Blues club. This unique genre of music originated in Mississippi during the slave times in the 1800s, and while those days are over, the soulful music has remained.

The reason Blues music is so popular in Chicago is due to the Great Migration of African-Americans from Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.

Many of the people who fled the southern states (due to racial discrimination) chose Chicago in hopes that they would find industrial work and a happier life. With them, they brought their amazing music.

Check out Kingston Mines, House Of Blues, Buddy Guy’s Legends and B.L.U.E.S. Most of these places also serve up tasty southern-inspired cuisine.

Fun fact: although blues music didn’t originate in Chicago, back in the 1980’s House Music was created by DJ’s and producers in underground clubs. The next time you’re dancing to electronic music, remember, you have Chicago to thank for those beats!

25. Watch a Game

Chicago is home to professional sports teams and depending on which time of the year you visit, make sure you attend a game.

Whether you’re into hockey, football, soccer, baseball or basketball, Chicago has a professional team on offer. Many of these teams have won championships, but the most popular sports in the city are by far baseball and football.

For baseball fans, head to Wrigley Field for a Cubs game, or to Guaranteed Rate Field for a White Sox game (click the links to see ticket prices). If football is your thing, make your way to Soldier Field for a Bears game.

For hockey, cheer on the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center. For basketball fans, The Chicago Bulls play at the United Center, while the WNBA team Chicago Sky is at Wintrust Arena.

The Chicago Fire and Chicago Red Stars soccer teams play at the Toyota Park venue.

Sports are a huge part of life in Chicago and Chicagoans are very passionate about their teams.

Enjoy a live game alongside these awesome fans, or share in the camaraderie at one of the many sports bars. Watching sports with a hotdog and beer in hand is one of the top things to do in Chicago for sure.

Bonus! 26. Gaze Up at The Fireworks

During the summer months from May 26 – September 1, the Navy Pier puts on a spectacular show.

Make your way down to the pier on Wednesdays (9:30pm) and Saturdays (10:15pm) and enjoy the fireworks show, synchronized to music.

Watch the sky light up while sitting on the pier, or from a boat on the river or lake. This is one of the best things to do in Chicago in the summer. Click here to learn more and to see the schedule.

Bonus! 27. Join a Free Walking Tour

Walking tours are an excellent way to get a quick and informative introduction to cities around the world. We’ve joined walking tours in Medellin, Tirana, Berlin, Edinburgh, Florence and Rome (to name a few), and it’s always been an amazing experience.

In Chicago, the guides are locals and are very knowledgable about their city. Expect to learn about the history of Chicago, the various buildings, and where to eat and drink — all while being entertained by great storytellers.

You can choose from architecture tours in various parts of the city, at different times of the day. This is one of the best budget-friendly things to do in Chicago.

The tours are generally around 2 hours long, which is great as it doesn’t take up your whole day. As a bonus, the tours are “free” and you’re only expected to give a tip if you’re happy with the service.

It’s more of a “pay what you like” situation. Click here to learn more about Free Tours By Foot.

Now You Know What To Do in Chicago

One of the things that makes Chicago such an enjoyable city is that you can be surrounded by traffic and skyscrapers one minute, and the next, find yourself relaxing on the river or lakefront. All within just a few minute’s drive.

There are endless fun things to do in Chicago and hopefully this list gave you some inspiration for your next trip. All I can say is make sure to give yourself enough time in Chicago, but if not, you could always come back…

Don’t Miss Our Chicago Travel Video!

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*Note, some of the photos in this article were sourced on Shutterstock — a website for finding royalty-free, professional photos and videos.

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ashafriesen · 4 years

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7 Days And 6 Nights Portugal Itinerary

7 days and 6 nights Portugal Itinerary

Last year was a little low for me when it came to travel, due to family issues. Last November, when I realised that hubby was traveling to Portugal for work, I seized the opportunity. November is also a month when my Anniversary falls so this became a trip for just the two of us :). If you have been married like me for 16 years you will realise how much these breaks are important for bonding.

A lot of people combine Spain with Portugal but I would not recommend the same as there is enough and more to see in Portugal itself, especially if you are constrained for time.

Spain With Kids: Our Family Trip & Travel Experiences In Spain

Our journey started on not such a great note because our flights got cancelled a day prior, so we had to rebook and we reached a day later than expected and at midnight to Porto.

We chose an apartment very close to the Douro river, at a walkable distance to all the main attractions in Mouzinho Oporto tourist Apartments, a small but cozy studio apartment for two. Here are details of my 7 Day and 6 Nights Portugal Itinerary. Hope this helps you plan your vacation.

PORTO: Portugal Itinerary

On our very first day in Porto, it was pouring from the word go. It was super cold but we managed to cross bridge over the Douro river to go to the city across which is called Gaia.

The bridge that connects Porto And Gaia

While we all know Porto as a beautiful city by the Douro river and is famous for its Port wine, in actuality, Porto has nothing to do with Port wine! The Port wine actually was brought to the limelight because of the British and some of the famous and the oldest wine cellars belong to them and while port wine is actually produced in the Douro valley, 140 kms away from Porto.

The city of Porto along the Douro River

It is stored in Gaia in wine cellars and not in Porto. The ones to visit are Calem and Sandeman for sure. You can book online in advance or buy tickets over there, but do check on their tour timings online. They have fixed timings and if you just land up like us, you can waste a few hours with nothing to do.

The Calem Wine Cellar, Gaia Wine tasting in Calem

Enjoying my glass of port wine at the wine tasting in Calem

The entire city is located on hill tops, so you see bunch of old colourful houses from the river and its bridge. A walk by the river or a river cruise is highly recommended. The cruise is just 15 min and in that time you can see all the 6 bridges and go to the point where the river joins the sea. Porto has beautiful view points from where you can watch the sunset. Its undoubtedly is one city that has one of the most beautiful sunsets.

Beautiful sunset in Porto

The things to try when you are in Porto is definitely Portuguese Nata( an egg yolk Tart), Super Bock Beer and Francesinha( I am aware that this word is made by joining France and Sinha and I wonder if we had anything to do with it ????). A very interesting story around Nata is that it was discovered because the nuns used to use egg white to starch their clothes and a lot of yolk was wasted so hence this sweet was invented. It’s yummy, by the way. While I have an egg allergy, I tried it and loved it.

Superbock beer and Portuguese Nata- a must try in Portugal

Francesinha on the other hand is a lethal layers of sausages and meat combo with cheese and sauce on the top and the Portuguese claim that it’s so lethal that you can have this only once a month. There is a vegan version too, I skipped this one but if you are a meat lover, it’s a must do.

Francesinha

The best way to discover the city of Porto is by foot. The streets are cobbled so I would definitely suggest to wear comfortable shoes. I was grateful for my sneakers. I would recommend two nights and if you can extend then do visit the Douro valley tour from here.

Porto city view

P.s.- A lot of info here courtesy the walking tour I did with SANDEMANs NEW Europe

LISBON: Portugal Itinerary

On Day three, we took a train to headed to Lisbon. It’s just 2.30 hours by road or train from Porto. Luckily for us the weather was wonderful here, with an occasional shower here and there. Lisbon is a metropolitan city but the history and culture of Lisbon is as bewitching, or more, as Porto. We stayed in the Corinthia Hotel here but would not recommend it as it’s pretty much away from main tourist attractions. Stay in Alfama area.

Grafitti in Lisbon

If I could sum my entire stay in Lisbon, it would be in three words – history, culture and Gastronomical experience.

As usual, I started exploring Lisbon on Day 4, with free walking tours to understand the city and its culture well. This time I chose Take Lisboa tours and I found our guide Yuri extremely passionate about the history of the city which made the tour even more interesting.

If you look into the history of Portugal, it has had its share of downs, with invasion by Napoleon, the great earthquake of 1755 which nearly wiped out 85 % of the city and the reign of Salazar. They finally got their independence with the famous ‘Carnation Revolution’ in 1974 and it’s only after that their economy started growing. So it’s a European nation that’s still evolving. What will strike you is the friendliness of the locals and you will feel at home at once.

Lisbon has distinctive areas which you need to visit

Baixa – This is downtown, starts around a famous square (Rossio) and ends at Praca de Comercio.

Chiado/Bairro Alto – Here is where you find the night-life. Portugal is known for bar hopping and nightclubs.

Alfama – Old neighbourhood around the castle. This area was initially the habitat of prostitutes and had hamams as it was rich in hot springs. Legend goes, the word Alfama comes from ‘The Hamam’.

Av de Liberdade – Do not miss the “High-end” shopping in this area.

Belem – Here is where you find the most historic monuments and the famous pastry, Pasteis de Belem ie historic cream tart

Docas – marina area with restaurants and night life

Parque das Nacoes – The new modern area of Lisbon

Of these I would totally recommend walking tours of Baixa, Belem, Alfama and Chiado. You can explore these areas later at your ease in the day.

It’s also one of the cheaper European countries so will not create a big hole in your pocket. Of course, you still have to look out for pick pockets.

My absolute recommendations of things to do in Lisbon

Do the heritage tram route of 28 or 24.

28 number heritage Tram Lisbon

View points – Cafe Bellissimo near Carmo covent, Belem tower, and St George’s castle.

Eat at bistros, vintage cafes and michellen star restaurants. Food is reasonable unlike most other European countries.

Walk around in the Chiado area, Alfama, Belem and soak the culture. Visit the Jerenimos Monastery, museum of coaches, Lisbon Cathedral, Carmo Convent etc.

Cathedral at Lisboa- The structure that stands tall even after the earthquake

If you have time- visit the LX factory. An offbeat place with multiple boutique shops and restaurants. Loved the vibe there. The place is famous for products it makes from corks so definitely buy a bag, shoes or hats made of it. It’s a great tool for recycling.

A chocolate cafe at the LX factory, Lisbon

Learn about the famous poets of Portugal- Fernando Passeo, Luis De Camoes, Almeida Garret to name a few.

Posing with Fernando, the poet

*Go to a Fado concert- The powerful music style is described as nostalgia and longing. * Check out graffitis across the city. You will also realise where Mario Miranda derived his inspiration from.

Graffiti in Lisbon

*Drink Green Wine- yes, it’s a thing and has only 6% alcohol.

Green wine- a must try in Lisbon

*Do Tagus river cruise if you have the time. *The nightclubs and bars in Lisbon are open till 9 am!!! They really party! And Bairro Alto is your area to be.

You can walk everywhere but remember it’s all uphill and downhill mostly and cobbled streets. Uber is super cheap, so use that when needed.

SINTRA: Portugal Itinerary

Day 5, we decided to explore the lazy, small, historic town nestled in the hills about a 30 min ride from Lisbon called, Sintra. Being stationed a bit up it’s temperature is always a little lower than Lisbon unless I, like an eternal optimist decided that it’s going to be a sunny day and it really was!

The Whimsical Pena Palace At Sintra

I did a private tour to Sintra with my friends, since hubby was busy. We walked through the city centre and the by-lanes soaking the entire vibe of the city.

Sintra

With My Friends in Sintra

The vibe of the town of Sintra

Things that we missed and would like to do the next time is the Moorish castle and the Quinta da Regaleira – A lavish mansion and fascinating gardens that contain hidden tunnels and secretive religious symbolism because apparently the person who owned it was a free mason.

Quinta Da Regaleira

Our guide Feliciano from GetYourGuide took us to this non touristy beach, Praia da Adraga, which had beautiful waves, caves and a cove from where the waves would break and come like a froth to kiss your feet. It had to be my most favourite place to visit.

Praia da Adraga beach near Sintra

Our last stop was lunch at a beach town Cascais further away where my girlfriends and I finished off a pitcher of Sangria, listening to some College romantics in a town square. Unfortunately, I don’t have pics of this place. This place also has the biggest casino so do visit if you like casinos.

This is how wonderful my holiday was. We were in Portugal for 7 nights and I liked just walking around the place. If I had to go back here are a few places I would like to add to my itinerary;

Aveiro – aka Venice of Portugal

Coimbra – Seat of oldest University of Europe

Evora – Old Roman Capital and centre of wine regions, Alentejo

Faro – Capital of Algarve, touristy beach region of Portugal

Geres national Park- to enjoy the amazing landscapes

Have any questions about Portugal? Planning a trip there? Comment below and I will get back.

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tsgnorthwestarkansas · 6 years

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TSG Expert Travel Tips: River Cruising for Everyone

U of Uniworld’s sleek black-hulled ship called “The A” sails on the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers delivering unique experiences geared toward millennials; photo credit: U of Uniworld

It’s always a treat to visit with Northwest Arkansas’s own travel guru, Michele MacDonald of THE CORE TRAVELER. As fall approaches, we wanted to know what travel trends she is most excited for when booking an autumn weekend getaway or a longer holiday away. Her answer: river cruising! Not only for empty nesters and the retired set any more, the luxurious and exotic river cruises Michele sends her clients on feature something for everyone—from enriching family experiences to millennial-approved entertainment, with destinations that have left us wanderlusting. . . .

“Of the most common things I tell clients who want to see a lot of places is to try a cruise because it has ease of access that allows you to sample places without investing in one area,” says Michele.

Here we share a few of Michele’s favorite fall and holiday river cruise lines and destinations.

Regroup for 2 wonderful family activities! Vienna is famous for its marionettes—and at Schönbrunn Palace the whole family can participate in a unique marionette demonstration, followed by a private marionette show. Then, enjoy a strudel-making demonstration showing you how to make a famous regional treat, apple strudel! (Photo courtesy Adventures by Disney on AmaWaterways River Ship)

For the Family

Adventures by Disney River Cruises has partnered with AmaWaterways with sailings down the scenic Danube and Rhine Rivers to provide a bit of Disney Magic steeped in culture and history. “This cruise line is well known for their adventure guides and local experts,” says Michele.

Think immersive cultural experiences with Disney magic, minus Mickey. “This is a luxury experience that can be tailored to your family’s ages and interests,” says Michele. “These river cruises become an educational journey with animation, hands-on experiences and memories steeped in magic.”

She loves these cruises for multi-generational vacations with grandparents and young ones in tow. Note: Most of these cruises do have a suggested age of four years and older.

U by Uniworld, designed with Millennial travelers in mind, was recently featured on The Bachelorette, which is known for featuring exotic and luxurious travel ideas for young people. Photo credit by U by Uniworld

For the Young & Young at Heart

“River cruising had a stigma of being for the retired people,” says Michele. “But the new line U by UniWorld is anything but!”

These brand-new ships are designed for passengers aged 21-45, featuring hip, luxe decor, extra common spaces for mingling, unlimited adult beverages and ease of access to European cities along the Rhine, Seine and Danube rivers. “I love this cruise for solo travelers because you have the security of being around the same people, but you also have an organized itinerary to keep you moving,” says Michele.

And you don’t have to invest your whole vacation in one specific area, since you’ll keep moving along the river to travel to cities like Amsterdam, Paris or Budapest, to name only a few.

River cruises through Holland and Belgium during tulip season can be breathtaking. Keukenhof is said to be the world’s largest and most famous flower garden. Photo credit: Tulip Time on AmaWaterways

For the Connoisseur

“River cruises can also be designed based on your specific interest,” says Michele. “For foodies, oenophiles, gardeners or adventure seekers, even those interested in art or textiles, river cruises can’t be beat.”Certain cruise lines will cater to a specific region of food or wine, with celebrity chefs and other experts to guide the way. And then there are the cruises throughout Holland during tulip season, which every gardener must experience in their lifetime! Cruises dedicated to Europe’s festive Christmas markets are a fabulous way to spend the holiday season. “The lights, scents, flavors and goods at these beautiful Christmas markets in Austria or Switzerland must be taken in from the river,” says Michele. “It’s a charming take on the season that feels so new but steeped in tradition as well.”

“The lights, scents, flavors and goods at these beautiful Christmas markets in Austria or Switzerland must be taken in from the river,” says Michele. “It’s a charming take on the season that feels so new but steeped in tradition as well.” Photo credit: Christmas Markets in Europe on the AmaWaterways

For avid cruisers and adventure seekers, Michele will recommend river cruises in more exotic regions, like AmaWaterways Me Kong River tour throughout Southeast Asia. Michele loves to enhance the cruise experience by adding or extending a trip in a certain destination, and these more exotic cruises to far-off destinations would be the perfect place to take her up on that offer. Michele does all the booking, and can find the perfect hotel and work with airlines and cruise lines to accommodate extensions, including seamless transportation, private tours and ease of access. When you book this way, you’re not wasting your precious vacation time scrambling to figure out what to do.

Michele’s Expert Tip: AmaWaterways provides a fleet of more than two dozen bicycles (plus helmets) for use in ports across Europe. Passengers can join complimentary guided cycling tours or venture off on their own along scenic riverside pathways. Photo credit: Scenic River Cruises

One thing to remember when looking into fall and holiday river cruises: Booking a cruise online doesn’t mean you are going to get personalized service. Michele can handle the complete travel arrangements for her clients, from airfare, pre and post cruise accommodations, ground services, sightseeing experiences, dining recommendations, special celebrations, and more. She helps her clients qualify which cruise line and ship best fits their travel style and needs such as all-suite staterooms, unlimited beverages including adult beverages, pre-paid gratuities, unlimited port excursions and private tours.

When you’re ready to book any of the above river cruise excursions, CONTACT MICHELE MACDONALD AT THE CORE TRAVELER (479.366.8210) for bespoke travel planning and arrangements.

Michele MacDonald, luxury travel planner, pictured aboard a boat in Croatia.

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american-mosaic · 6 years

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CRUISING WASHINGTON STATE’S WINE COUNTRY.

Eastern Washington is one of the best regions in the United States for growing grapes. There is a rich history of how the wine industry started here. Today some of the best wine globally is produced in this region.

A LITTLE HISTORY, WITHOUT THE BENEFIT OF TASTING.

Wine grapes were -- along with apples -- the very first cultivated fruits in the Pacific Northwest. Initially planted here in 1827, both were cherished by early pioneering settlers, but whereas apples became a lucrative farm commodity early on, the grape's long and winding path to success was a bit rockier. Only in recent decades has both the art and science of viticulture (grape growing) and enology (wine making) really advanced to the point where Washington-grown grapes now share a wide reputation (along with apples) as some of the world's tastiest -- and the finest locally made wines now enjoy global esteem for their excellence.

Seed to Vine, Grape to Wine The first grapes cultivated here (and the wine that they led to) were those grown at Fort Vancouver on the north bank of the Columbia River. This new fur trading post was built in 1825 by the British Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) on a site selected by its manager, Dr. John McLoughlin (1784-1857), who thought that its flat terrain and fecund soil would support a farm that could feed his staff -- and among the various fruits and vegetables planted were grapes and apples.

Both fruits came about as a lucky result of a visitation -- probably by the HBC official, George Simpson (1792?-1860) -- on an inspection tour in November, 1826. Legend holds that: "A gentlemen ... while at a party in London, put the seeds of the grapes and apples which he ate into his vest pocket. Soon afterwards he took a voyage to this country and left them here, and now they are greatly multiplied" (Whitman, Letters and Journals, September 12, 1836). Likely planted during the spring season following Simpson's arrival, the fort was soon receiving shipments of corks and bottles ordered along with other supplies. Overland and by Sea It was the opening of the Oregon Trail that brought the next wave of grape-growing when a number of early emigrants hauled various grape cuttings to the region in their covered wagons -- among the first being Henderson Luelling who babied his vine cuttings all the way out from Iowa. And even though the Isabella variety he'd nurtured was a native North American (Vituslabrusca) hybrid -- rather than the generally superior European (Vitusvinifera) type of wine-grape -- the nursery that he established in the Willamette Valley in 1847 helped other settlers get their homestead vineyards (and wine-making) started. In the northern Oregon Territories -- specifically the Puget Sound area -- a few other folks followed Luelling's example, and by 1854 there were three active nurseries that offered both vinifera and labrusca cuttings to locals. In 1872 that Civil War veteran Lambert Evans (1836?-1917?) arrived in the area and after scouting around via his flat-bottomed skiff, settled on a Stretch Island land claim (near Olympia) and planted grapes and apples on his bluff. Then in 1889, Adam Eckert arrived from New York, bought 40 acres from Evans, founded yet another nursery, and planted Island Belle vines that turned out to be very well suited to the terroir (an area's specific soil characteristics and climate conditions). For the next three decades he supplied cuttings to locals. Willamette to Walla Walla Around 1859-1860 A. B. Roberts hauled grape stock up from the Willamette Valley and planted them along with numerous additional varieties that he imported from France. Around the same time, an Italian baker, Frank Orselli, began making and marketing wine from his shop. Over the next few years, others -- including Phillip Ritz and H. P. Isaacs -- joined in by making wine from grape varieties including Black Hamburg, Black Prince, Flame Tokay, and Sweetwater.

In 1876 Jean Marie Abadie produced 150 gallons of red and 400 of white wine, but in 1883 a 20-degrees-below-zero winter freeze destroyed the area's young grapevines. Then, at the turn of the century, a couple of Italian immigrants named Frank and Rose Leonetti settled in the area and planted Black Prince grapes on their farm and for the next half century they made wine for their family -- including a grandson who would, in due course, kick-start the regional wine biz. The Yakima and Wenatchee Valleys The Yakima River provided the irrigation required to transform the Yakima Valley's scrub-brush desert into a bountiful agricultural area and settlers wasted no time in testing the area's rich volcanic-ash soil's potential for grapes. As early as 1869 a vineyard was planted outside of Union Gap, and within a few years another vineyard in Wenatchee was productive enough to yield an annual total of 1,500 gallons of wine.

By the 1880s Johannisberg Riesling and Mission grapevines had been planted in the tiny town of Moxee. In 1889 H. S. Simmons planted the Zinfandel variety in Wenatchee and the fall harvest of 1893 yielded grapes of a quality that allowed him to make his first wine. Keep on the Sunnyside In 1891 the Sunnyside Canal irrigation project helped accelerate the growth in the Yakima Valley, and a decade later Elbert F. Blaine (1857-?) settled into the valley town of Grandview and -- as the manager of an irrigation company -- was soon touting the possibilities of a serious grape-growing and wine-making industry in the area. The following year of 1903 saw a subsidiary of the Northern Pacific Railroad called the Northwest Improvement Company plant some Kennewick land to various grape varieties.

In 1905 the United States Bureau of Reclamation began a series of irrigation projects that would help launch a new wave of plantings. That same year Blaine began producing wine from varieties including Black Prince, White Diamond, Zinfandel, and Concord. Prohibition Era Sunnyside was also, since 1902, the home of a lawyer named William B. Bridgman (1878-?) who, like Blaine, also managed an irrigation company and took an interest in grapes. In 1917 he planted several varieties of grapevines on some Snipes Mountain acreage near his Harrison Hill farm -- but, that seemed a risky move considering that the Washington State Legislature had enacted severe alcohol Prohibition laws in 1916. However, since the law still allowed for individuals to make small amounts of their own home-brew wine, demand for his grapes was strong. That same "prohibition effect" impacted other grape growers as well: The old Island Belle vines on Lambert Evans's farm were producing grapes that were now sought after by home winemakers and in 1918 a Seattle real estate agent named Charles Somers acquired land from Evans's widow and a new era began. The following year the legislature ratified the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution and on January 16, 1920, Prohibition spread nationwide. Repeal the Grapes Washington was the 24th state to vote for Prohibition's Repeal, and the national social experiment finally ended with the adoption of the Twenty-first Amendment to the Constitution on December 5, 1933. In the wake of that legal reform, a wave of new companies filed papers with the government to establish new commercial wineries. The first such "bonded" winery in the state was St. Charles Winery -- the firm founded by Somers (and his son C. W. "Bill" Somers) on Stretch Island. The 13th bonded winery was William Bridgman's Upland Winery in Sunnyside, which opened in November 1934 and whose 165 acres of vines produced an amazing 7,000 gallons of wine that first harvest season. That same year saw the rise of two other notable firms: Grandview's National Wine Company (aka Nawico) and Seattle's Pommerelle Winery (Dearborn Street) which, upon Repeal, shifted from making apple juice to apple wine. Grape Expectations The year 1935 saw the first attempt to organize the state's winemakers with the formation of the Washington Wine Producers Association -- and, interestingly, all if its charter members were wineries based in the "un-sunny side" of the state: St Charles Winery, Pommerelle Winery, Davis Winery (Stretch Island), Wright Winery (Everett), and Werberger Winery (Harstene Island). The future looked bright. By 1937 Washington was home to 28 wineries, and by 1938 there were 42 wineries. With all this increased activity, the Washington Wine Producers Association reorganized in 1938 as the Washington Wine Council and further strides were made to establish the region's grape and wine industries.

One promising development was the hiring of Dr. Walter J. Clore (1911-2003) as an assistant horticulturist at the Irrigated Agriculture Research Extension Center near the Yakima Valley town of Prosser. Upon the suggestion of Bridgman, Clore -- who the State Legislature would eventually declare "Father of the Washington State Wine Industry" -- launched the experimental planting of seven vinifera varieties along with 20 labrusca hybrids. That led to the systematic study of more than 250 grape varietals, and over the following 40 years Clore's advice about grapes, soil types, and other viticultural matters contributed immeasurably to the planning of many of the finest local vineyards. (The groundbreaking for the long-planned Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center -- an ambitious 17,537-square-foot educational facility on a 22-acre site along the Yakima River in Prosser -- will occur in 2009.) Interestingly, with all those many varieties being studied by Clore, it would be the old standby -- Concord grapes -- that would initially raise local expectations for the future of the biz in Eastern Washington. In 1949 that California's giant Ernest & Julio Gallo corporation purchased a remarkable 4,000 tons of the locally grown grapes and the subsequent popularity of Gallo's "Cold Duck" sparkling wine ensured many years of successful collaboration. But 1949 also had a down side: a particular icy winter that year (and again in 1950) effectively destroyed vineyards -- as well as the area's grape business. A Wine Renaissance The 1950s saw many changes on the Washington wine front -- with a major one being the ongoing evolution of local wine palates trending away from what one historian described as the "ghastly quality" of the unsophisticated wines produced here: Local "winemakers then produced fewer gallons of grape wine than of fruit and berry wines, 35 per cent of which were fortified with brandies to yield a strong, sweet domestic liquid dismissed by most wine drinkers as simply garbage for the 'wino' trade" (Clark, The Dry Years, 259). Proof of that qualitative shift was the fact that by 1960, decreased demand accounted for a paltry four wineries remaining active in Washington. But the dawn of the 1960s soon brought a resurgence of activity: 1962 saw a gaggle of winemaking hobbyists led by University of Washington professor Lloyd S. Woodburne (1906-1992) forming the Associated Vintners group which planted a vineyard in Prosser. Believing that red vinifera grapes would never survive there, they opted for Northern European cool-climate varieties like Gewürztraminer and Riesling. Although time would prove their red-wine theory to be inaccurate, one of their Gewürztraminer wines was tasted in 1967 by America's venerated vintner, the California-based Beaulieu Vineyard's Andre Tchelistcheff (1901-1994), who deemed it "the best in the United States." Such accolades convinced Associated Vintners to go commercial and by 1984 the group had morphed into Woodinville's Columbia Winery -- by 2007, the seventh-largest in the state. Washington's largest winery for decades (until Columbia Crest surpassed its production volume) was Chateau Ste. Michelle -- a commercial giant that emerged in 1967 from the American Wine Growers company (which itself formed in 1954 with the merging of the old Concord and fruit-wine purveyors, Pomerelle and Nawico). Starting with a 15,000 gallon production of Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Semillon, and Grenache Rosé wines -- under the direction of winemaker Howard Somers (1919-2005) (who'd grown up working at his family's St. Charles Winery), and with the mentoring of Tchelistcheff and Clore -- the winery today markets multi-million gallons per year of premium quality wine from its showcase Woodinville facility. Even so, its quality has not faltered: In 1979 Tchelistcheff was able to describe the Cabernet Sauvignon as "one of the best I've ever tasted." The Wine Buzz A lot of the buzz about Washington wines surrounds a number of vastly smaller wineries that have emerged since the 1970s. That was when a few "mom and pop" start-ups like Hinzerling Vineyards, Kiona Vineyards, Hogue Cellars, Chinook Wines, Barnard Griffin Wines, L'Ecole No 41, Mercer Ranch, McCrea Winery, and Portteus Vineyards got underway. The first to capture public attention was Preston Wine Cellars, which began in 1972 when Bill and Joann Preston planted their 50-acre vineyard outside of Pasco. In 1976 the couple opened what was the region's first "destination" winery and by 1979 their 180-acre vineyard was planted to cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, gamay noir, gewürztraminer, merlot, sauvignon blanc, syrah, and white riesling. The first winemaker to really make waves was Gary Figgins -- the grandson of those Walla Walla pioneers, Frank and Rose Leonetti. Figgins' winery, Leonetti Cellar, would go on to garner acclaim for many subsequent vintages -- but he initially shocked the wine world when his 1978 Cabernet Sauvignon earned kudos from the Winestate Wine Guide as the "best in the country," and later, when pitted in a competition against all the big California masters, was named "Best of The Best." Inspired by Figgins's activities, his friend Rick Small planted 26 acres of vineyards in 1976, founded the Woodward Canyon winery in 1981, and his subsequent Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet wines have won an intense following, many top awards and -- like Leonetti -- a well-earned status as one of the state's finest wineries. Another star in the Washington wine galaxy is Quilceda Creek Vintners, which was founded at Snohomish in 1979 by Alex Golitzin after receiving encouragement from his uncle, Tchelistcheff. Golitzin's Cabernets have consistently been jaw-droppers and in recent years his highly esteemed wines (the 2002 and 2003 vintages) made history as the first ever from Washington to win perfect "100" scores by the world's top critic, Robert Parker and his Wine Advocate publication. Washington Wine Commission In 1987 the Washington Wine Commission formed as a trade group and a dozen years later it established the Washington Wine Quality Alliance to help forge standards in winemaking and labeling. By 2016 the state boasted 14 unique and officially recognized grape-growing regions -- "appellations" or AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) -- designated by the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau: Yakima Valley (1983), Walla Walla Valley (1984), Columbia Valley (1984), Puget Sound (1995), Red Mountain (2001), Columbia Gorge (2004), Horse Heaven Hills (2005), Wahluke Slope (2006), Rattlesnake Hills (2006), Snipes Mountain (2009), Lake Chelan (2009), Naches Heights (2011), Ancient Lakes (2012), and Lewis-Clark Valley (2016), with additional AVAs expected in the future. One interesting result is that even certain individual vineyards -- including Alder Ridge, Andrews-Horse Heaven Vineyard, the Benches at Wallula Vineyard, Canoe Ridge, Celilo, Champoux, Champoux Vineyards, Chandler Reach, Charbonneau, Ciel du Cheval, Connor Lee, Klipsun, Pepper Bridge, Red Willow, Roza Berge, Saddle Mountain, and Sagemoor (among Washington's 43,000-plus acres planted to grape) -- have now (like those in various other internationally established wine regions) gained widespread notoriety, and bottles carrying those terms merit instant prestige. So the regional wine industry has certainly come a long way over the years from those early days of sweet fruit-based wines. Today numerous firms -- including Abeja, Andrew Will, Betz Family Winery, Buty, Cadence, Cayuse, DeLille Cellars, Dunham Cellars, Fidélitas, Hedges Family Estate, Januik, K Vintners, Long Shadows, Mark Ryan, Matthews Estate, McCrea Cellars, Owen Roe, Reininger, Rulo, Spring Valley Vineyard, Syncline Wine Cellars, Waters, and Walla Walla Vintners among others -- regularly astound experts, winning regional, national, and/or international awards. Now -- with 750-plus active wineries (and a new one slated to open about every 10 days) -- the local wine trade, with 350 growers and more than 14,000 jobs, currently contributes an estimated three billion dollars to the state's annual economy. Today Washington ranks second only to California in total wine production in the United States and our wine is being shipped to all 50 states and to at least 40 foreign countries -- so word about our "grape juice" has clearly gotten around. Cheers!

This essay made possible by:

The State of Washington Washington Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation

Originally published in Wine in Washington, History

by: Peter Blecha, HistoryLink.org essay 8658

http://american-mosaic.com

Note: This essay was updated on January 12, 2014, and on September 6, 2017.

#wine #washington #wineries #grapes #vineyards #AVAs #winemakers

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mrrolandtfranco · 6 years

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25 Best Weekend Getaways From Every USA Region

Whether you’re sneaking in one more summer vacation or getting ahead of planning a future escape—FlipKey is here to help! There’s no need for far-flung airline tickets in this wanderlust-worthy roundup. We’re featuring the best weekend trips by region so you can find one that’s close to you. These top weekend getaways across America offer amazing activities, scenic sightseeing, great attractions, stellar weather—or all of the above!

Even if you’re only on vacation for a couple days, finding the perfect place to stay is easy with FlipKey. From cozy cabins or breezy beach houses, to downtown condos and apartments, FlipKey has affordable rental properties available to book right on our site. Whether a quick weekend break or long weekend getaway, these destinations are worth the car ride!

Northeast

Cape May, NJ

Don’t let its location fool you—Cape May is the antithesis of the Jersey Shore. This iconic beach destination sets itself apart from other Jersey Shore destinations with its rich history and architecture, but still has the same super-convenient location from major Northeastern cities. In fact, the entire city was named a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Though the town has clean beaches and fine dining options, you can also escape the sun at a beautiful beach rental or a number of museums, including the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum.

Find a great place to stay in Cape May!

Burlington, VT

The charming and free-spirited city of Burlington is one of the USA’s best weekend trips for two reasons: the downtown scene and the lake. Burlington’s Church Street, a pedestrian-only, cobblestone-and-brick-paved strip, boasts restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. Head down Main Street to the water to experience the beauty of Lake Champlain, where you can take a sunset cruise, or—during July—hit the Annual Vermont Brewers Festival. The exciting event features dozens of craft brewers and food tents against a scenic backdrop of lake views and the Adirondack Mountains.

Find a great place to stay near Burlington!

Providence, RI

For a sophisticated weekend getaway, Providence delivers. Get your fix of culture with the small town’s many art shows, plays, and culinary delights, all delivered with Ivy League charm. Between the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art and the grand buildings of Brown University, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Find a great place to stay in Providence!

Saranac Lake, NY

New Yorkers have long flocked to Saranac Lake for its supposed healing powers—the Adirondack lake was considered a place to heal from tuberculosis during the 19th century. Today, visitors can still reap the same healing benefits from fresh air and quality time away from big city crowds. A stroll through the downtown introduces you to the city’s charming character: find bookshops and art galleries intermingled with farm-to-table restaurants and local watering holes. Of course, the lake itself and nearby hiking trails are a huge draw in and of themselves, so be sure to schedule some time for outdoor fun.

Find a great place to stay in Saranac Lake!

Provincetown, MA

A weekend getaway in Provincetown is really fun—hands down. The famously LGBTQ-friendly beach town is packed with things to do (everything from great nightlife to dolphin watching tours), all with gorgeous beaches close by. The town is also home to the Pilgrim Monument, a big nod to American heritage and a commemoration of where the Mayflower Compact was written.

Find a great place to stay in Provincetown!

Southeast

Greenville, SC

Greenville’s getting a lot of press lately, and with good reason. This once quiet Southern town has had something of a revival, now boasting hundreds of events per year, fantastic food, drink and shopping, and a lively yet relaxed vibe that makes it one of the country’s best weekend getaways if you live nearby. Why not tour the downtown area and follow the Swamp Rabbit Trail on a guided Segway tour? Put Greenville on your weekend travel list—you won’t be disappointed.

Find a great place to stay in Greenville!

Williamsburg, VA

The town of Williamsburg is best known as the home of Colonial Williamsburg, an authentic colonial city that puts history books to shame. Lifelike historical reenactments and an almost entirely preserved town make you feel like you’re actually a colonist (taking a Williamsburg tour helps). If you need to get back to the modern world, though, it’s easy enough to do. Just take a short drive to Busch Gardens Williamsburg or Water Country USA for full days of kid-approved fun.

Find a great place to stay in Williamsburg!

St. Augustine, FL

If you want more to do on your Florida weekend getaway than just chill on the beach, St. Augustine is a good pick. This historic city was the first and longest-inhabited European settlement in Florida, boasting a history dating back to 1565. Fort Matanzas National Monument the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park are good places to start learning about Florida’s settler history (or take a ghost tour for a spookier recounting). In addition, you can see white tigers and other rare rescued animals at the St. Augustine Wild Reserve or head out to St. Augustine Beach, just a short drive away.

Find a great place to stay in St. Augustine!

Chattanooga, TN

Nashville saunter and Appalachian ease come together in Chattanooga, one of the best weekend trips in the Southeast. Here you’ll find homestyle barbecue and upscale cuisine in equal measure and enough outdoor entertainment and cultural activities that your escape practically plans itself. Get a lay of the land on a hop-on hop-off trolley tour, and then head to the Tennessee River for a stroll along the renovated riverwalk or a cruise past the city skyline and under its well-recognized Walnut Street Bridge. Plus, Chattanooga is conveniently located within driving distance of big Southeastern cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Atlanta, so you can turn your long weekend getaway into a memorable road trip.

Find a great place to stay in Chattanooga!

Helen, GA

Bavarian bakeries and German architecture meet Southern hospitality in Helen, an alpine city with strong Bavarian roots that might trick you into pulling out your passport. The downtown doesn’t take long to explore—it’s small-town charm at it’s best—but luckily, there’s plenty to explore once you’re done. A handful of waterfalls including Anna Ruby Falls and Raven Cliff Falls are right nearby, as well as Unicoi State Park (its beach is pictured above) and the Yonah Mountain Hiking Trail, all of which let you enjoy the area’s beautiful location in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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Midwest

Saugatuck, MI

Saugatuck is a vibrant, artsy town along Lake Michigan known for Oval Beach, a pleasantly uncrowded shore with drifting sand dunes, shallow water, and gentle waves—great for kids. Nearby, Saugatuck Natural Area runs north of Oval Beach and features 173 acres of duneland with winding hikes overlooking the lake and Kalamazoo River Channel. The pristine area is known for its excellent fishing, sailing, swimming, and blueberry picking. With a quaint downtown filled with homey pubs and unique boutiques, Saugatuck is just the place to hit “pause” and escape the bustle of everyday life… if only for a weekend!

Find a great place to stay in Saugatuck!

Door County, WI

Summer is arguably the best time to take a long weekend getaway to Door County. The skinny Door Peninsula sticks out from the rest of Wisconsin to just into Lake Michigan, leaving 300 miles of lakefront beaches in its wake. Grab a kayak or hire a boat charter to explore the lake, bring the whole family along for zipline adventures in Wisconsin’s woods, or check out popular outdoor sites like Peninsula State Park. A rich mix of cultural activities means that on either end of your outdoor adventures you can peruse art galleries, head to the Peninsula Players Theatre, or sample authentic Wisconsin cheese at the Door County Creamery.

Find a great place to stay in Door County!

Galena, IL

A quaint downtown and off-the-beaten-track feel make Galena one of the best weekend getaways from many Midwestern cities, including Chicago and Milwaukee. The city is well-stocked with historical homes: The Ulysses S. Grant Home has the most star power because it was a gift to the country’s president after the Civil War. After touring sites and monuments, wind down with a taste of craft spirits at Blaum Bros. Distilling Co., an extremely popular watering hole in town.

Find a great place to stay in Galena!

Sioux Falls, SD

Slip away to Sioux Falls for one of the best weekend trips in the Midwest. This scenic city blends gorgeous outdoors with enough urban activities to keep you entertained. The city has plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife in its downtown area, and also has Falls Park and the Sioux Falls Bike Trails right in the city so you don’t need to travel far for your fix of outdoor fun.

Find a great place to stay in Sioux Falls!

Cincinnati, OH

Long gone are Cincinnati’s dreary industrial days. Discovering the city’s polished character is a pleasure as you explore museums and attractions in each of Cincinnati’s personality-rich enclaves. Though there is plenty to see as you wander through the historic neighborhoods, make sure you also get to must-see destinations like Smale Riverfront Park, Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, and the Cincinnati Art Museum. On busy weekends, it helps to book tickets to top destinations like the Cincinnati Zoo in advance.

Find a great place to stay in Cincinnati!

Northwest

Cannon Beach, OR

Stunning views, coastline hikes, and quaint cafes make Cannon Beach a super romantic weekend getaway (just 90 minutes from Portland). Whether you want to hunt for tide pools or hike through Ecola State Park, you’ll find a rental in Cannon with your name on it—within walking distance of the waves. Top area attractions include art galleries, outdoor concerts, and a summer farmer’s market.

Find a great place to stay in Cannon Beach!

Coeur D’Alene, ID

As one of the best weekend getaways in the Northwest, Coeur D’Alene knows how to show visitors a good time. The town offers a mix of everything: tee-up at golf courses right on the lake or bring the kids along for days packed with roller coasters and water sports on Coeur D’Alene Lake. No matter how you spend your days, you’ll find the whole town turning out at night to enjoy the city’s restaurants and bars along Sherman Ave.

Find a great place to stay in Coeur D’Alene!

Friday Harbor, WA

You don’t need to go far for an island getaway when visiting Friday Harbor, a top weekend trip in the region. This small town in the San Juan Islands is convenient to Northwestern cities, but is nestled deeply enough in the San Juan archipelago to feel remote. Appreciate the stunning scenery on a seaplane tour, catch sight of wildlife aboard a dolphin and whale watching cruise, or check out walking trails and a lighthouse at Lime Kiln Point State Park.

Find a great place to stay in Friday Harbor!

Whitefish, MT

If the mountains are calling, Whitefish is the place to go for your weekend trip. Located at the edge of Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a quaint mountain town backed by the over-the-top beauty of the Northern Rocky Mountains. Use the town as your basecamp for Rocky Mountain adventures, whether it’s a day hike in Flathead National Forest or a canoe ride across Whitefish Lake.

Find a great place to stay in Whitefish!

Boise, ID

Boise is topping a lot of travel lists these days, and even a weekend trip to Idaho’s trendiest city gives you enough time to discover why. A walk through the downtown reveals that this city is no longer sleepy—from boozy brunch tours to tacos and tapas happy hours, Boise has developed a fantastic cosmopolitan feel. When you’re not hanging around downtown’s shops, galleries, and historic sites, visit popular parks like Camel’s Back and Barber Park, where you can put in for rafting trip down the Boise River without leaving the city.

Find a great place to stay in Boise!

Southwest

Sedona, AZ

Sedona is a true oasis, a weekend vacationer’s paradise in the middle of the Arizona desert. Bell Rock and Oak Creek Canyon are great hiking spots, and the dramatic architecture of the Chapel of the Holy Cross is a religious experience itself. When the sun dips down below the horizon it introduces the best show in Sedona: the night sky. You won’t need to travel far to see it, either. Many vacation rentals come with a private outdoor terrace gazing upon the fiery orange and red sky above illustrious red rock formations.

Find a great place to stay in Sedona!

Temecula, CA

Halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Temecula is one of the best weekend getaways in SoCal—that you may not have considered. Though not as renowned as Napa Valley, the area is known for its wines—a wine tour is an easy way for first-time visitors to discover the best sips around. The city’s other claim to fame is as a hub for hot air balloon rides, and with gorgeous vineyards and California-quality sunrises, there’s plenty to admire.

Find a great place to stay in Temecula!

Tempe, AZ

Sandwiched between Phoenix and Scottsdale, the small city of Tempe holds its own with its shops, restaurants, and galleries in the Mill Avenue District, balanced by plenty of outdoor activities that take advantage of year-round warm temperatures. Although it’s home to the Arizona State University’s main campus, the city offers entertainment for visitors of all ages. Kids particularly love the SEA LIFE Aquarium, which has a surprisingly large collection of fish and other animals for an aquarium in the middle of the desert.

Find a great place to stay in Tempe!

San Marcos, TX

If Austin keeps things weird, San Marcos puts weird off the charts—in a good way. This small Texas town is where hippies mingle with college kids over craft brews and long days out on the river lead to long nights listening to blues at outlet malls. San Marcos vacation rentals match the town’s funky character and run the gamut from riverfront cabins to renovated downtown lofts so you can take a weekend getaway that matches your style.

Find a great place to stay in San Marcos!

San Luis Obispo, CA

Wine, dine, and take your time on a trip to San Luis Obispo, central California’s laid-back response to the Bay Area’s bustle. Food and wine tours are a top industry in SLO, making it one of the best weekend getaways for culinary enthusiasts, while outdoor attractions like Bishop Peak pay homage to California’s adventurous spirit.

Find a great place to stay in San Luis Obispo!

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janerchambers88 · 6 years

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25 Best Weekend Getaways From Every USA Region

Northeast

Cape May, NJ

Find a great place to stay in Cape May!

Burlington, VT

Find a great place to stay near Burlington!

Providence, RI

Find a great place to stay in Providence!

Saranac Lake, NY

Find a great place to stay in Saranac Lake!

Provincetown, MA

Find a great place to stay in Provincetown!

Southeast

Greenville, SC

Find a great place to stay in Greenville!

Williamsburg, VA

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St. Augustine, FL

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Chattanooga, TN

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Helen, GA

Find a great place to stay in Helen!

Midwest

Saugatuck, MI

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Door County, WI

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Galena, IL

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Sioux Falls, SD

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Cincinnati, OH

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Northwest

Cannon Beach, OR

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Coeur D’Alene, ID

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Friday Harbor, WA

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Whitefish, MT

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Boise, ID

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Southwest

Sedona, AZ

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Temecula, CA

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Tempe, AZ

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San Marcos, TX

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San Luis Obispo, CA

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