#trails. museums. and a lot of other important sites to explore | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

clove-pinks · 22 days

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Is there anything about your new location (the terrain, the local culture, the physical sites, etc) that has given you a new perspective on regional events of the War of 1812?

This a wonderful ask, thank you! I have been mulling over how to answer it all day! This ended up getting so long I put it behind a cut (I HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS ABOUT THIS).

The Maumee River, as seen from Fort Meigs Historic Site.

One thing new in my life is a heightened awareness of important rivers facilitating the movement of trade, supplies, and settlement. Particularly in the Old Northwest/current Midwest of the USA: regions that I grew up perceiving as a land-locked "flyover country."

Like, to give one example, I had a vague idea that there was a city called Fort Wayne, Indiana, but I thought it was just in the middle of a cornfield for no reason(?). But actually it's at the confluence of the St. Joseph, St. Marys, and Maumee Rivers, leading to the Great Lakes! The strategically important location is why General Anthony Wayne—that guy again—built the original fortification in 1794. I am downriver of all of this, connected to many inland waterways.

I also have a keen sense of living in the Great Black Swamp, despite how dramatically the land has been transformed by deforestation and drainage. There are the terrifying drainage ditches everywhere (the locals seem less perturbed by them), and many other signs of the natural state of the terrain—the swamp is just barely at bay. My coworkers have said "Black Swamp" unprompted in our conversations; I've seen it mentioned in local Facebook groups talking about the need for back-up sump pumps. The idea that people of northwest Ohio have no sense of history and are unaware of the Great Black Swamp isn't true at all.

I look at the pools of water that form in every hollow and think of the words of Alfred Lorrain, marching to Fort Meigs:

We had frequently to pass through what was called, in the provincialism of the frontiers, "swales"—standing ponds—through which the troops and packhorses which had preceded us had made a trail of shattered ice. Those swales were often a quarter of a mile long. They were, moreover, very unequal in their soundings. In common they were not more than half-leg deep; but sometimes, at a moment when we were not expecting it, we suddenly sank down to our cartridge-boxes.

Swale is a new word in my vocabulary, and now I see them everywhere!

Culturally, I think there is a great appreciation of history here: a very positive difference from the Chicagoland area. Even if the average local is probably not deeply into it, they have a consciousness of major historical events that have shaped their region and take pride in it. It's a lot more like New England that way.

Because of my focus on the War of 1812, I notice the absence of Indigenous people and voices—absent from historical accounts and from the demographics of Perrysburg and its environs today. I can't single out Ohio as being a uniquely violent settler-colonial state when this is ALL of the United States; but it hits different when I have this much greater familiarity with who was forcibly removed from this land, and how. The same US military leaders who fought in the War of 1812 were behind the (very much related) campaign for the removal of Native Americans from newly acquired territories, including the infamous Trail of Tears.

Once again, it's probably hypocritical for me to notice this so much, when I literally grew up on Wampanoag land where King Philip's War was fought, but here I am. Suddenly aware of General Wayne's name on everything, etc.

General Wayne's spurs in the Fort Meigs Museum. Not pictured: the can of Maumee Bay Brewing Co. Fallen Timbers Ale that I am currently drinking.

I haven't had the chance to explore physical sites with historical significance beyond Fort Meigs and Fallen Timbers. I know I will get to the ruins of Fort Miamis soon, and I really want to explore a lot of wetlands in local parks and nature preserves (that will double as birdwatching excursions). I am always thinking about what this place looked like 200 years ago, and what I can see today that might still look familiar to a person from that time.

I had a great trip to the National Museum of the Great Lakes today, which is closer than I thought! Local maritime museums are also on my agenda, even if they're not specifically War of 1812-related.

#asks #shaun talks #ohio posting #i could add three or four more paragraphs to any given paragraph here #you activated my trap card

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inquisitorius-sin-bin · 2 years

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14, 21, and 33 for the weirder asks.

Thank you for asking!

14. do you love the smell of earth after it rains?

Sure, it reminds me of being in college and going on the dirt roads in Tuskeegee after a fresh rain, looking for frogs and salamanders

21. something you’ve kept since childhood?

Not a lot unfortunately. I mentioned some stuffed animals in my last post. I think I have a box of my childhood artwork because my parents didn't want it and it was taking up space in their house so its like my drawings from elementary and middle school.

33. the last adventure you’ve been on?

I went to the Black Belt Birding Festival, which takes place in the Black Belt Prarie Ecosystem of Alabama. Marshall and I arrived at Moundville Archeological Site a couple of hours early for our talk there because we had never been to Moundville and had an interest in the history of the site. When we got there, we were the only people in the entire park, so we explored this historic Native American site (respectfully) and the nature trails and the museum there and learned a lot.

It was a really great experience. Historically the site has been owned by the nearby university and studied by their history department, but in more recent times they've partnered with living Native American Nations with historical ties to the site in how to present the information in a respectful and culturally appropriate manner. The site was already abandoned before colonists arrived in the 1600's, so it is doubly important to study what life there was like before the arrival of Europeans.

Also just on a fascinating note, Moundville is thought to be a city of largely patricial folk, skilled crafters, spiritual and political leaders, and other people from the surrounding areas brought their dead in to the city to be buried there. Nowadays the living Nations have festivals at Moundville where they demonstrate their crafts and spiritual practices as they believe they may have been practiced at Moundville at the time.

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lastfrontierh · 1 year

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Luxurious Heli Ski Lodges

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#heli skiing canada

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choicehotelss · 1 year

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Finding the Best Hotels Near Panther Creek State Park and Downtown Knoxville, TN

There are many people who like to travel. Some have to travel because of business work while some are interested to explore new places. Hence, it will be good to identify the best hotel where you can stay peacefully. When planning a trip to the Knoxville, TN area, finding the right hotel can be an important factor in making your trip a success. Whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, you want to make sure you have a comfortable and convenient place to stay. There are several hotels near to many places, so it is important to compare your options to find the best fit for your needs. When you choose a hotel, then it is important to consider your budget and the amenities that you need. Panther Creek State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. If you are planning to visit the location, then you may want to consider staying at a hotel nearby. And in that situation, you can look for Hotels Near Panther Creek State Park. There are several hotels in the area that offer convenient access to Panther Creek State Park and other local attractions. These hotels may have amenities such as fitness centers, pools, and outdoor recreation areas, making them a great choice for those who are looking to stay active during their trip. When you look for a hotel, then you may want to compare the rates and amenities of several hotels in order to find the best deal. It is also a good idea to read reviews from past guests to get an idea of the quality of the hotel and its customer service. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect hotel for your trip to the Knoxville, TN area. As there are many locations where people can plan to visit, if you are planning to visit Downtown Knoxville, then you may want to consider staying at a hotel in the city center. Downtown Knoxville is home to a variety of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options, as well as cultural attractions such as museums and galleries. There are several Hotels Near Downtown Knoxville TN area that offer convenient access to these attractions, as well as amenities such as fitness centers, pools, and on-site dining. It will be good to check the details about the hotel along with the services and amenities offered by them. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the hotel or services offered by a hotel, then it will be recommended to check the website and read the reviews. Reviews will really help you to understand more about the hotel and on the basis of that, you can make the decision to finalize the hotel. Even you can do the pre-book also for the hotel which will save a lot of time and money. Searching for the best solutions on Hotels Near Downtown Knoxville TN can be easier for you, if you check up all the posts and reference website provided by the author. Must follow and grab great ideas.

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1stplumberwinchesterva · 1 year

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Fun Things To Do near Winchester VA neighborhoods

Introduction

Winchester, VA is a small town just north of Front Royal and south of Strasburg. It's known for its historic downtown area, which offers unique shops and restaurants as well as the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum. But there are plenty of other things to do in Winchester if you're looking for something more than shopping or historical attractions!

Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum

The Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum is a great place to take the kids. They can see dinosaurs, explore the planetarium show and even watch an IMAX movie. The museum also features a natural history museum with lots of interactive exhibits.

Winchester

Winchester is the county seat of Frederick County and is located in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia. The city's population was 18,848 in 2010. Winchester has a rich history dating back to its founding as an outpost for colonial settlers. Today, Winchester is home to Shenandoah University and many historic sites that are open year-round for visitors to tour.

Winchester is a city in northern Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley. The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley recounts the area’s history, and includes the 1790s Glen Burnie House and landscaped gardens. Old Town Winchester, a shopping and dining hub, is home to Stonewall Jackson's Headquarters Museum, featuring Civil War memorabilia. To the east, the vast Jim Barnett Park includes a lake, an arboretum, and sports facilities.

Kernstown

The Kernstown Battlefield is a National Historic Landmark. It features a Civil War Museum, educational programs, and battlefield tours. The Kernstown Battlefield Trail is a self-guided driving tour of the historic site that takes visitors to important places related to the Civil War battle. Kernstown Park is open daily from sunrise until sunset.

Kernstown is an unincorporated community within the independent city of Winchester, Virginia. Parts of Kernstown also lie within Frederick County. It is centered along Valley Pike U.S. Route 11. During the American Civil War, the first and second Battles of Kernstown were fought here.

There are many great things to do in the Winchester, VA area.

The Winchester, VA area is full of great things to do. There are many different ways to get out and enjoy the sunshine, whether you want to participate in sports or find an indoor activity for yourself. Here are some suggestions:

If you're looking for a sporty event, check out Winchester's River Valley Park. This park offers several athletic options, including soccer fields and baseball diamonds. You can also take advantage of its walking trails while enjoying the beautiful scenery!

Another way that people enjoy themselves around here is by kayaking on nearby lakes and rivers such as Lake Annecy or Mill Creek Reservoir—or even just going into town for a nice stroll through Brown's Lake Park!

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped you find some fun things to do near Winchester VA neighborhoods. If there is anything else that we missed or that you would like us to add, please be sure to leave us a comment below and let us know!

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1st Plumber Winchester

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(540) 202-3949

#plumber #plumbing #plumber near me #plumbing contractor #plumbing company

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downwiththeficness · 3 years

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In the Bond-Chapter 5

Summary: Lilah often wished she’d never said yes to working with the Gecko brothers—usually while dodging gunfire. At no time was she regretting that decision more than when she’s hanging upside down from the ceiling, staring down a group of hungry culebras and one (1) extremely powerful sun god.

Word Count: ~3,700

Warnings: None

A/N: This is an AU of my Story In the Blood, which can be read here. Basically, this fic explores what would have happened if Lilah had met up with Geckos before she met Brasa.

Taglist: @symbiont13

Start from the beginning Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Read on AO3 Masterlist

Lilah sat at a conference table, hands at her temples, groaning. The meeting was going nowhere. There had been so much goddamned bickering in the last hour that Lilah was tempted just to get up and walk out to see if they would even notice. The fucking testosterone in this room was thick enough to choke her.

They’d been arguing on and off for hours, save for a few breaks that Lilah had mandated when the urge to either bludgeon them to death or to pee arose. Every little thing had to be discussed, debated, twisted every which way. Nothing was simple, especially not when it came to the territory assigned to each side.

“Alright!” She yelled, finally having had enough. “Let’s just go over this again.”

Standing, Lilah leaned over the map. The surface was covered by solid, clear plastic, onto which they were outlining territories with dry erase markers. The current argument centered around the delineation of land around a fertile riverbed.

“Okay,” she grunted, “We aren’t planting crops, we’re just trying to figure out what land we’re going to be responsible for.” She put her hand over the area on the map, giving her friend a meaningful look, “We don’t need it, Seth.”

Making a derisive sound, Seth held up his hand, “Hold your horses. This river cuts through our liquor supply chain. We need access to the highway over there.”

Brasa shrugged, having leaned back from the table, “No one is saying you can’t import your liquor. Your horses will be safe.”

Lilah felt her eyes roll, couldn’t keep the sigh from escaping her lips, “He wasn’t talking about literal horses.”

Acting as if he hadn’t heard her, Seth barreled forward, “Yeah, but let’s say things get tense between us. You could cut off our supply just like that.” He snapped his fingers to emphasize his point. “No, we’re going to extend out past the river and over the road.”

“An extra fifty miles,” Brasa drawled, “For an uninterrupted supply chain.”

“Correct,” Seth answered, a smug little smirk on his mouth.

As he eyed Seth, Lilah could feel the barest brush of warmth across her hands. Reflexively, she drew them back, closer to the safety of her body. The heat dissipated as Brasa stood, leaning his weight into his palms as he braced them on the table.

Like the rest of him, Brasa’s hands were large, the fingers spreading wide over the wood. Lilah noted how the gloves he was wearing stretched tight across the backs of them. She wondered, not for the first time, why he wore them.

“Then, I want the desert land here,” he pointed to a swath of empty land, “And here.”

Seth considered it before giving a nod. Lilah marked it out on the map with the coordinated colors she’d chosen before the meeting began.

“Wait,” Seth said, and Lilah’s jaw clenched, “What would you want with a couple hundred square miles of empty land?”

Brasa lifted a brow, “Are we holding more horses?”

“Forget the horses,” Seth bit out with a wave of his hand, “No one willingly chooses to own land like this.”

“Is that so?”

Lilah did not like the way he said that. A question wrapped around a veiled barb, wrapped in ridicule. She glanced at Seth to see if he caught the undertones in the words. He hadn’t. She didn’t know whether to be annoyed or relieved.

“There is a group of my people who have made camp there,” Brasa explained lightly.

Seth looked unmoved, “You don’t want us going out there and doing population control.”

Lip curling, Brasa replied, “Is that what you call what you were doing? Looked a lot like chaos to me.”

Without blinking, Seth shot back, “Well, its not our main bag, alright? This shit is new to us, since your people came along and infected my brother.”

And, there they were, talking in circles around the thing that made negotiating such an arduous task. Seth would never forgive Brasa for the hell he’d put them through, for the uncrossable gulf that now existed between him and his brother. Fighting with Richie about it only made things worse, and Seth was resorting to striking out at the only other available target.

“This isn’t the time for this,” Lilah edged, fingers tightening on the marker.

“When is the time?” Seth nearly yelled, “We started out killing them and now we’re marking out territories and writing fucking policies and procedures together.”

Lilah drew in a calming breath, “This is business, Seth.”

She’d explained it to him several times over. They needed the cooperation of Brasa and his people. There were just too many factions, too many rogue culebras to hunt down all by themselves. It would take scouring the land every day for years to make that happen. Brasa had already assured them that anyone getting blood at their sites was vetted intensely. Anyone who broke the primary rule and killed humans without regard for the safety of the group was eliminated.

Seth looked at her with ire, “Fuck business.”

“Yes,” Lilah countered with a sneer, “Fuck business. Fuck ending a war. Fuck peace.” She sat back in her chair with a huff, “You want to keep fighting forever? Guess what? You don’t have forever. He does.” She pointed at Brasa, “He has all the time in the world to wait you out, and he’s offering a solution—now, not later.”

Seth went quiet, jaw working. His fingers drummed on the table, eyes cutting.

Lilah saw the crack in his resolve and kept talking, “This sucks. It all sucks. Ironing out details fucking sucks.” She tapped her fingers on the map, “But these details are going to save lives. Possibly yours and mine. Let’s just get this done so we can get back to shit we used to do, the fun shit.”

There was a heaviness in the air as she trailed off, her expression urging Seth for some sort of compromise. She was being honest when she said she wanted to get back to what she was good at. Lilah had been itching for a job for months, had actually stooped low enough to snag a pair of sunglasses at the gas station just to satisfy the restlessness in her hands. If she wasn’t careful, she was going to end out figuring out who the richest person in the country was and rob them blind.

Brasa spoke, his voice piqued with interest, “What did you do before...population control?”

Seth cut a look at him that was both suspicious and angry, “We’re thieves. I run point, Richie is the box man, Lilah monitors with tech.”

“That is fortunate,” Brasa said as he sat, with a little smile that was far too easy for Lilah’s taste, “I happen to need a few items stolen for me.”

Lilah leaned her head on her head, motioning for him to continue. She was intrigued by the idea that he would be interested in contracting with them. A job was a tasty idea, at the moment, and found that she didn’t much care that it would be Brasa that would be directing them.

“As you might be aware, relics are often stolen from indigenous people and either put on display in a museum or kept in a private collection. I’d like some of those relics back.”

Lilah’s brows lifted. That was certainly not what she had expected him to say. The idea had some merit, though. Lilah’s favorite jobs were museums. So many pretty things that definitely needed a new home.

Seth considered it, “We’re not a cheap crew.”

True.

Nodding, Brasa simply said, “I have money.”

Definitely true. Every inch of Brasa’s office and the bar adjacent screamed money at her in an understated way. As old as he was, there was no denying that he likely had a cache of assets squirreled away.

Lilah looked back and forth between them, already calculating cost, labor, and expenses. Depending on what he wanted, she could potentially negotiate a hefty profit. And, if there happened to be something else in the museum that caught her fancy—bonus.

“Say we do this job,” Seth began, slouching in his seat, “And you pay us—and, we iron out all these details,” he gestured to the map. “Is that going to be it?”

“It?”

“Yeah. Or, are we going to have a dual relationship, here. Both contractor and partner.”

Lilah was actually a little impressed that Seth not only knew how dual relationships worked, but also applied it to their unique situation. She turned her attention to Brasa, curious to hear his response.

“I can contract others, if you like. But, I like to work with people I know, people that I...trust to have a stake in things going well for them.”

Logical. Practical. Efficient. Lilah was quickly learning how skilled Brasa could be when he wanted something done. He might want whatever these relics were back in his possession, but she wasn’t stupid enough to dismiss the fact that he was creating yet another tie between them, anchoring her nearby with every task they agreed to take on. It wasn’t possible to deny his motivations any longer. Denial wouldn’t do her any good. She was undecided on how she felt about it.

Seth remained silent, watching, waiting. Lilah was holding her breath.

Brasa’s eyes narrowed, “I will give you the river, and the connecting highway from here,” he pointed, “to here. In lieu of payment, of course. You make take your horses wherever you like within that boundary.”

Mildly offended, Lilah cut in, “In lieu of payment, but you will cover expenses. Air fare, hotel stays, food, and equipment.”

His attention, when it turned to her, was keen. Though his expression did not change, there was a twinkle of laughter in his eyes, possibly pride, as well, “Done.”

“What if,” Seth began, “We took this deal, and our horses, and added this area, too.”

He pointed to the desert Brasa had originally bargained for. It was surrounded by enemy territory, across the river they’d just gained, with no inherent resources. Lilah glared at him, knowing he was needling his opponent. The man just couldn’t help it, consequences be damned.

“Well,” Brasa responded levelly, “I’d say that you might have your horses, but you’d be isolated, alone, and on the wrong side of the river.”

Seth conceded the point with a nod of his head, “Not a fan of sand, anyways. Unless its a beach. Beaches, I can do.”

Unmoved by the sentiment, Brasa simply replied, “I will keep the desert.”

Lilah blinked slowly, and when Seth made no move to argue, she asked “So its settled, then?”

Both of them indicated in the positive, with Seth saying, “There’s one thing I don’t understand.”

“One thing?” Lilah commented, though she didn’t expect him to respond. He’d started on a tangent, and getting him back on track would be difficult. Better to let him roll through his thought process.

“You’ve got a whole group of culebras that you’re feeding, right?”

Brasa nodded, though his expression had shuttered.

“How are you doing that?”

A valid question that she had figured out not longer after these meetings had started. Lilah cut in, trying to head off any insult he might inadvertently blurt out, “He’s having it shipped in.”

“From where?” Seth asked, hands gesturing widely. “I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but we’re in kind of a food desert, here. Literally and figuratively.”

Without an answer to his question, Lilah looked to Brasa, brows lifted. She was curious enough about his process to let the question stand.

Cocking his head to the side, Brasa licked his lips, “I run a rather complex medical supplies company. We ship all over the country. Part of that business is blood donation.”

Seth’s mouth thinned, “You’re stealing blood.”

Brasa huffed, “We transport most of it to where it needs to go. Call it a finder’s fee.”

“What about the sick people who need it?”

Where was all this compassion coming from? Lilah wondered. Although far from heartless, Seth didn’t usually care this much about the people he ripped off. Why should this be any different?

“Would you rather we feed on the humans in the area?” Brasa’s voice was low, dangerous. Lilah could feel the offense, as if it were her own.

“No.”

“Alright, then.”

Sensing that the conversation had come to an impass, Lilah gathered up her paperwork, “I’m going to get this all formatted and polished for both of your signatures. Shouldn’t take more than a few days.”

“Great,” Seth muttered as he rose, “Let’s get out of here.”

***

Later, when her eyes started crossing from staring at the computer too long, Lilah shut down her laptop and sat it on her nightstand. Rubbing at her face, she yawned and settled against the headboard. Furtively, she glanced to the side, her hand already reaching for the candle she’d tucked away. After checking that the door was closed (despite having closed and locked it a few hours before), Lilah lifted the lid and inhaled deeply.

Coffee. Caramel.

A little too quickly, Lilah replaced the lid and set it back in its little hideaway. Embarrassed, she crossed her arms and stared at the ceiling. Lilah was feeling things she hadn’t really ever felt, not since she’d been in high school. And, even then, it was never this intense. She managed to get through their meetings solely because there was always something else to focus on. Every one on one interaction with him left her feeling frazzled and lightheaded. She’d stolen rare artifacts with less trouble.

In this business, Lilah had what most would call a late start. She’d had a normal childhood, had gone through high school and done the work thing for a bit. Lilah had even sat in a cubicle, bored out of her mind. It wasn’t until she’d met a chop shop owner named Chewie that she’d been introduced to theft. First, cars, then she’d set her eyes on higher things—art, diamonds, one time she managed to steal a yacht.

It had been a steady rotation of teams that were well-established in their own right, but never did more than a few jobs together before they split to keep the heat down. Lilah had spent almost a decade running in those circles before she’d run into Seth at a dive bar south of the border. He’d hit on her, laughed when she’d knocked him off his barstool, and offered her a job.

And, here she sat. Hip deep in a relationship she didn’t understand and brokering a deal between her friends and the people they’d taught her to fear. Sneering at the course of her own thoughts, Lilah pushed her feet under the covers and turned off the light. It took longer than she wanted to get to sleep.

***

Oh, fuck, the bed was comfortable. Lilah turned over, burying her nose in the pillow and kicking out her legs. With a sigh, she settled back into the mattress that she was pretty sure was more expensive than her car. So comfortable was she that Lilah could be forgiven for taking a little longer than normal to become aware of another body in the bed with her.

She took a few seconds to assess and decide on what she was going to do, which was pretty much nothing. Eyes opening, she waited for them to adjust to the warm light emanating from the lamp sitting on the nightstand. Cast in shadow, Lilah recognized the slope of Brasa’s profile. His eyes were closed, but she couldn’t tell if he was sleeping.

Her fingers curled with the urge to reach out and touch, her brain a little foggy from sleep. Lips parting, she breathed, lids falling to half mast Lilah let it roll over her tongue. She had to clench her jaw to stifle a pleased moan.

Lashes fluttering, Brasa opened his eyes, his head rolling to the side on the pillow. He looked her over calmly, unsurprised that she’d somehow ended up in his bed. Lilah, however, had questions.

“Is this real?”

His mouth quirked, “Does it have to be?”

She started to answer, and then stopped. Did it have to be? Lilah wasn’t sure which she preferred. When they were together, she felt excited and eager, even when she was outwardly annoyed. When they were apart, she struggled to reconcile the two versions of him that she knew to be true. With barely a thought, he’d eviscerated his opponents, hands tearing them into literal pieces. And then there was the way he was looking at her right now—all softness, all quiet affection.

Lilah’s silence continued, the space between them spreading thin with her indecision. Brasa shifted slowly to his side, lifting up onto his elbow so that he was looking down at her. His body was cut in half by lamplight, eyes too bright to be merely natural reflection.

Lilah’s skin drew up tight around the curves of her body as she worked to keep her gaze on his. Every inch of her seemed to be viscerally aware of him, responding to the smallest movement. Her nerves sizzled with his nearness.

He tilted his head to the side, eyes tracing the contours of her cheekbones, her neck, and shoulders. Lilah swallowed, disconcerted by the scrutiny, but unable to think of any way to break it. He studied her as if he’d never look at her again, memorizing details with tender care.

Finally, when she couldn’t take the silence anymore, she said, “How am I here?”

Brasa lifted a shoulder, “We had so little time together last night. Perhaps we needed more.”

She didn’t know what to do with that. Next question, then.

“You sleep during the day.”

Not really a question, more of a statement, but she waited for his answer nonetheless.

“Sometimes,” he replied, taking her change in subject in stride, “I need less sleep than most.”

“Why?”

He smiled, “I am very old. We need to sleep less, to feed less, as we age.”

Lilah had heard a little about this from Richie, who’d lamented that it took so long to build up a tolerance to going long periods without feeding. And, she knew Richie only slept a few hours a night. She wondered just how often Brasa would need to sleep, given how much older he was. Lilah was no longer surprised at his efficiency with getting his projects together. If she could miss a few meals or miss a few night’s sleep every once in a while, she could get a hell of a lot done.

“That’s a nice perk,” she commented lightly, “When I go too long without eating, I get grumpy.”

Nodding, Brasa reached out and traced the pad of a finger over her shoulder and down her arm to her wrist, “I will keep this in mind and endeavor to keep you well fed.”

Would she do the same? He hadn’t mentioned that she had taken his blood without giving any in return. Whenever Lilah thought about it too deeply, she always came back to the same line of thought—his bite. She had tried to do a little covert research about the venom, but only found a few vague references to ‘donors’ seeking it out. Venom, it seemed, could be a popular drug in certain circles.

“I’m sorry that we left so quickly,” Lilah murmured rolling her wrist to place her hand over his, “I know that I didn’t...fulfill my end of our agreement.”

Twice. Two interactions in a row, she hadn’t. He hadn’t brought it up, but the disparity between what she’d promised and what she’d done nagged at her. She didn’t like to be made a liar.

Brasa’s brows lifted, “Are you afraid I’ll tell them?”

“No,” she replied quickly, “I just don’t want you to think I’m avoiding it.”

He smiled flirtatiously, “Are you offering now?”

Eyes widening, Lilah’s mouth parted, voice silent as her brain stumbled over forming a reply, “This is a dream. Is—is that even possible?”

He laughed, a real laugh. It made his face, so predisposed to severity, brighten in such a way that he fairly glowed in the dim light. Lilah felt her breath catch in the back of her throat, struck by just how goddamned pretty he was to look at.

“I don’t know,” he breathed, when he was able, “Would you like to try?”

The word ‘okay’ was out of her mouth before Lilah could stop it, her eyes wide, her heart beating hard. Brasa’s smile faded, his eyes focusing on her, the pupils bleeding out into the whites until there was nothing but blackness looking down at her. She drew in a shuddering breath, her fingers curling over his.

Sliding closer to her, Brasa cupped her jaw, tilting it back just a little. He glanced at her face again, checking for her consent. She gave the smallest nod, licking her lips. The motion drew his eyes to her mouth, his body growing hot against her. He leaned down, but instead of hovering over the thin skin of her neck, he moved to the side. The realization that he intended to kiss her came to Lilah in a slow, honeyed wave.

“Yes?” He asked, his breath fanning over her mouth.

“Yes.”

It was so, so slow, this kiss. Light pressure that grew heavier in the smallest increments. Lilah gripped his bicep, trying to ground herself as every nerve in her body screamed to life, reaching out desperately to get more stimulation. He drew back, changed the angle, and kissed her again—deeper, hungrier, tongue running along her bottom lip.

She was too hot, her skin seared by the heat emanating from him. Sweat rose and pooled in the hollows of her arms, beneath her breasts, the crease between her hip and thigh. She heard herself moan, felt her muscles relax as he rolled her beneath him. Brasa pulled away, nosing along her jaw and down to her neck. Lilah surprised herself when her lifted her chin, giving him more access.

The sharp press of his teeth snapped her awake. She sat up, breathing as if she’d been sprinting. Her entire body was shaking, her sheets damp with sweat.

“Well,” she croaked, “That’s new.”

#from dusk til dawn #from dusk til dawn: the series #Brasa #In the Bond

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discover24 · 3 years

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THINGS TO DO IN TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA: TERRIFIC IDEAS!

Have you heard of Torrance?

This city, located in Los Angeles’ South Bay, is known for its cultural and ethnic diversity. As a consequence, it is an exciting place to explore (think beaches, eateries, and markets) when visiting Southern California.

This comprehensive guide will give you all the reasons to start planning a visit to Torrance.

THINGS TO DO IN TORRANCE

As a city of more than 147,000 residents, believe me when I say Torrance has a plethora of attractions, facilities, and open spaces available to the public. What follows is my local perspective on the best things to do in Torrance.

STROLL AROUND OLD TOWN

In the early 1900s, a real estate mogul called James Sydney Torrance took the chance to develop a community south of Los Angeles.

His investment paid off since the area incorporated as the City of Torrance in 1921 and grew in size through annexing different pieces of land.

The original planned community survives in what is known as Old Town. The quiet streets are sprinkled with businesses, residences, trees, parks, and monuments to local heroes.

I visit the area mainly to eat. My husband and I love By Brazil, a churrasqueria known for its home cooking and flavorful meat, chicken, and pork cuts. We save money by taking advantage of the lunch special (about $20 per person).

We were beyond excited when Madre Oaxacan Restaurant opened in the area. We adore Oaxacan food and it is great to have tlayudas, mole negro, and tasajo close to home.

For breakfast, we go to Eat at Rudy’s. For pastries (and donuts, ahem), we go to the Torrance Bakery. We meet with friends at Red Car. For something different, I recommend visiting the Chado Tea Room. Try one of their blossoming teas.

After lunch or dinner, stroll around the streets or pay a visit to Del Prado Park.

JOIN A WALKING TOUR

Every 4th Sunday of the month, the Torrance Historical Society offers a free tour of Old Town Torrance. The 90-minute tour will take you to several landmarks and expand your knowledge about the city.

Note: The tour is offered from May to October. Confirm details a couple of days before the tour date.

VISIT HOF HUT TORRANCE

The reputation of Hofburgers spread and business boomed. In those days Hofburgers cost 15 cents and cheese dogs a dime.

In 1947 my father married my mother, Donna, and with the need for a year round business opened the first Hof’s Hut in Belmont Shore. My mother, who was waiting tables during opening day, gave birth to me later that night, September 16, 1951. So I guess you could say I was born to be in the restaurant business.

Looking back over those early years, I attribute Hof’s success to 2 things: my father’s insistence on using only top quality ingredients to make the best breakfasts, burgers, chili, onion rings and fresh home-baked pies in the county and his unwavering focus on providing truly great service. Though they’ve grown a lot in the decades since, with Hof’s Hut restaurants now located throughout Southern California.

For more information related to hot huf torrance visit their shop now!

VISIT A POPULAR FILMING LOCATION

TV and movie fans will be interested in knowing that Torrance High School has been featured in several well-known productions.

The building gained notoriety for serving as the high school on the popular Beverly Hills, 90210 series. In addition, its facade and patio have been part of TV shows such as Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Medium and movies such as She’s All That and Bruce Almighty.

ENTER BIVALVE PARADISE AT THE JOLLY OYSTER MARKET

When I told my husband, I was writing an article about things to do in Torrance, he told me not to forget about The Jolly Oyster. Then, he repeated the same thing 20 times.

Per my husband’s mandate, I am suggesting you visit this market specializing in oysters, clams, and crab claws. They have a big local following and excellent reviews.

Actually, this brand started with a truck at the San Buenaventura State Beach (in Ventura, 70 miles north of Los Angeles). We used to stop when driving back from Santa Barbara. My husband was elated when they opened a market in our backyard.

Note: They also serve oysters at Smorgasbord LA, an eating extravaganza taking place every Sunday in Downtown Los Angeles.

GET IN TOUCH WITH NATURE AT THE MADRONA MARSH PRESERVE

The Madrona Marsh showcases the marshland that used to cover the coastal plains of Southern California. Most of these areas were drained in order to develop living and business complexes. Therefore, this marsh is a rare example of how things used to be.

The place provides a habitat for birds, insects, frogs, reptiles, and small mammals. In addition, it is a stop for migrating birds.

The preserve is open to the public every day (except Monday) from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. An on-site nature center provides information about the creatures calling home the area and facilitates different types of activities (hikes, workshops, etc.)

SPEND THE DAY AT THE BEACH

A lot of people mention the beach cities of Los Angeles County (Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach) but they do not realize Torrance has 1.5 miles of beachfront.

The long stretch of sand between the Redondo Pier and the Palos Verdes Peninsula is shared between Redondo Beach and Torrance. The Torrance part starts south of Miramar Park (where Esplanade meets Paseo de la Playa).

This beach is less hectic than others in the South Bay so, it is a good place to spend the day without having to share your space with hundreds of people. In season, there is a cafe and beach rental shack on-site. The other nice thing is that the Riviera Village, an area with more than 20 restaurants, is located a couple of blocks away.

Also, keep in mind Torrance Beach is the terminus of the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. This 22-mile paved way starts at Will Rogers State Beach and continues through Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Marina del Rey, and other beach cities. Since you are on Torrance Beach, you can use the trail to bike to nearby beach cities. I love to ride along this trail!

ENJOY A BIT OF JAPAN AT MITSUWA MARKETPLACE

Mitsuwa is a supermarket chain with one of the largest selections of imported Japanese goods in the United States. However, this place is more than a supermarket. They sell electronics cosmetics and pharmaceutical goods. And, we cannot forget to mention the food court serving everything from ramen to tempura.

You can spend a decent amount of time browsing the halls and taking advantage of the samples (usually during the weekends). If you feel hungry, you either can grab something at the prepared food section (the selection is mind-blowing) or pick a stall at the food court. I always take several things home to eat later.

The other cool thing is that Mitsuwa has different “fairs” featuring dishes from the different prefectures of Japan or a specific ingredient. This is a good opportunity to learn more about the culture of the country.

STOP BY THE BEST FARMERS MARKET EVER

Many farmers’ markets in the Los Angeles area get tons of rave reviews. I am not sure if it is local pride but, in my opinion, they are not as good as Torrance Farmers Market.

This market is huge! They have products from 60 farms plus flowers, honey, baked goods, nuts, candy, fish, eggs, prepared food, an international food court, and live music. You have the opportunity to sample a lot of different things and try things you have never tried before. Come hungry because you will need space in your stomach to tackle all the offerings.

HUNT FOR AN ANTIQUE TREASURE

If you enjoy browsing for antiques and unique objects in a lively environment, then you have to stop by the Torrance Antique Street Faire.

This monthly event (4th Sunday) gathers 200 vendors and attracts thousands to Old Town Torrance. The fair has been going strong for 20 years and it is a South Bay favorite. Bring the entire family to this fun event. Admission and parking are free.

SHOP AT THE ROADIUM OPEN AIR MARKET

The Roadium can be described as a swap meet or flea market (even though it is “officially” an open-air market). I am pretty sure you are familiar with the concept but, if not, this is a place where used objects are sold or exchanged. Offerings can be new or never used. The idea is to acquire a good at a lower price than usual.

The Roadium covers a big space and it is well organized. You can find cosmetics, perfumes, clothes, shoes, and bags as well as automotive, gardening, locksmithing, and hardware store items.

The market is opened daily but the biggest number of vendors set up stalls during the weekends. Admission is $1 – $2. Additional parking can be found at a lot, located at the intersection of Redondo Beach Boulevard and Crenshaw Boulevard. A free shuttle transports shoppers to the market’s entrance.

VISIT A MUSEUM

If your preferences are along with the art, history, and culture subjects, it is possible to sharpen your knowledge of those areas by visiting one of the museums in the city of Torrance.

You have the following options:

Torrance Art Museum – focuses on the contemporary art of Southern California. Admission is free.

California Museum of Fine Art – museum and gallery showcasing works of global artists. Opened from Wednesday to Saturday (afternoons)

Torrance Historical Society – offers local exhibits and archives. Open from Wednesday to Saturday (afternoons).

Western Museum of Flight – aviation museum located at Torrance’s Municipal Airport. Opened Tuesday to Sunday. Admission is $5.

Chen Art Gallery – houses one of the most important Chinese art collections in the United States. Opened Tuesday to Friday. Admission is free.

GO BREWERY HOPPING

Torrance is one of the leaders of the craft beer movement in Los Angeles. I am not sure if another city in the area has as many breweries as Torrance.

These breweries are usually located in an industrial zone and facilities are warehouse style. Most places are “bring your own food” (or snacks). Sometimes, a food truck makes a stop or a taquero is serving delicious morsels.

I am not a beer drinker, so I cannot really tell you which place is better. You will need to find out for yourself. But, let me tell you that the places I am mentioning below are alive, thriving, and expanding. Therefore, they must be good.

Smog City Brewing, Monkish Brewing, Cosmic Brewery, The Dudes’ Brewing, and The Strand Brewing are located very not that far from one another (less than a mile).

Not far away, in Old Town Torrance, you have Red Car Restaurant & Brewery and Yorkshire Square Brewery. Absolution Brewing Company and Scholb Premium Ales are located west of the other breweries.

Standing by itself, next to a 99 Cents store, you will find Hop Saint. The food here is phenomenal.

GET TRANSPORTED TO GERMANY (OR CENTRAL EUROPE)

If you have visited Germany, Hungary, Austria, Czechia, and other countries in Central Europe, you wonder how you will survive without sausages, sauerkraut, and goulash once you get back home.

Well, in my case, I almost cried with happiness when I entered the Alpine Village. The market sells about 30 types of sausages (some prepared on-site), potato dumplings, spaetzle, pickled items, and much more. They also have a bakery, cafe, and deli.

Those looking for a more involved experience can visit the restaurant bratwurst, beef goulash, Weiner schnitzel, cold salads, hot dishes, and desserts. I cannot recommend this place enough!

#travel #tour #discover

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gypsealife · 3 years

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Things to do in Asheville

Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky mountain ranges is the charming, relaxed and liberal community of Asheville. It is the largest city in Western North Carolina and is a popular place to visit, with many tourist attractions in the city and its picturesque surroundings.

Nicknamed the "Paris of the South" for its attractive architecture, it has a thriving arts and alternative scene, with studios and galleries scattered throughout the city. An abundance of craft breweries and street performers provide a vibrant atmosphere, and there are other things to do in Asheville with some fascinating monuments and museums. If that wasn't enough, Asheville has idyllic gardens and grounds for visitors to tour, while the magnificent mountains and verdant forests that surround it are just a short drive away.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway

Known for its breathtaking scenery and nature, the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches from Virginia to North Carolina. Known as "America's favorite road," the route winds along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with phenomenal views and panoramas to be enjoyed along the way.

In total, the scenic route runs an impressive 755 miles and connects Shenandoah National Park with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the way, it passes through lush forests, with sparkling streams and fabulous waterfalls set amidst its pristine, untouched wilderness.

In addition to its many natural wonders, the scenic highway protects a number of important historic sites with charming towns and villages, as well as the Cherokee Indian Reservation, also along its route. Just outside Asheville, you'll find the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, which features lots of useful information and interactive exhibits about what is the most popular part of the U.S. National Park System.

2. North Carolina Arboretum

North Carolina Arboretum

Just south of the city is the charming North Carolina Arboretum, nestled among the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Sprawling in size, it is home to beautiful landscapes and magnificent gardens, with state-of-the-art greenhouses dotted here and there.

Wandering its picturesque trails is a pleasure, as the sprawling grounds are divided into picturesque sections. While some pretty flowerbeds mimic the patterns of the Blue Ridge Mountains, other areas sit alongside babbling brooks or are dotted with beautiful bonsai trees.

While its quiet trails, sprawling azaleas and fantastic flowerbeds are always gorgeous to explore, winter is an especially magical time to visit. That's when twinkling fairy lights hang among the towering trees, and the arboretum and botanical gardens take on an enchanted look.

3. Biltmore Estate

Biltmore Estate

At the heart of a sprawling estate is the Biltmore House, the largest privately owned home in the United States. Converted into a historic house museum, it is one of Asheville's most popular attractions, with large gardens, stunning architecture and beautiful rooms to explore.

Built between 1889 and 1895 for the incredibly wealthy George Washington Vanderbilt II, the massive mansion is inspired by the charming castles he had seen in the French Loire Valley. As such, many graceful arches and turrets can be seen along with attractive facades, magnificent sculptures and steeply pitched roofs.

The interior is just as dazzling. Decadently decorated rooms, halls and galleries stretch to infinity; in all, there are more than 250 to explore. On top of all this, there's wandering around the glorious grounds, with stables, wineries and hiking trails to be found here and there. To see the best of the Biltmore estate, it's worth a hike or an overnight stay at your hotel, inn or cottage.

4. Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest

One of the first national forests established in the eastern United States in 1916, Pisgah covers a vast portion of North Carolina, with large swaths around Asheville. Located in the southern Appalachian Mountains, it boasts some truly breathtaking scenery, with enchanting nature everywhere you look.

Hidden among its majestic mountains and endless forests are roaring rivers and sparkling waterfalls for visitors to discover, with divine views to be enjoyed from its highest realms. Amidst its wonderful forests and wilderness areas, exquisite mountain biking and hiking trails make their way, with numerous picnic areas and campsites scattered here and there.

Due to its scenic nature, the Pisgah National Forest is very popular with outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to hiking and biking, you can fish, climb and observe wildlife amidst its forests.

5. Basilica of San Lorenzo

St. Lawrence Basilica Asheville

One of the highlights of the city is the impressive Basilica of St. Lawrence, which is located in the center of the city. Built in 1905, this colossal Catholic church features magnificent Spanish Renaissance architecture and is reputed to have the largest free-standing elliptical dome in North America.

While its attractive facade and dazzling red brick are certainly a spectacular sight, entering its cavernous confines is the highlight. Here you'll find a host of sublime statues and stained glass windows, as well as fabulous altars and artwork, all beneath its imposing dome.

An important and impressive landmark, the beautiful basilica also has a couple of charming chapels to visit, as well as a lovely little garden to stroll around in the back.

6. Asheville Botanical Gardens

Asheville Botanical Gardens

Right next to the University of North Carolina at Asheville are some beautiful botanical gardens for you to explore. Popular with locals, students and tourists, they are home to picturesque landscapes, with tranquil paths weaving through the beautiful plants.

Established in 1961, the magnificent gardens cover a large area, with flower-filled meadows that sit alongside a sparkling stream and a wonderful wooded ridge. Dedicated to protecting and preserving the nature of the Southern Appalachians, it features more than 650 species of plants from the wondrous mountain range.

Strolling through the Asheville Botanical Garden is a delightful way to spend a few hours. April through August is the best time of year to visit, as there is an abundance of flowers and plants in bloom.

7. Grovewood Village

Grovewood Village

With numerous artist studios, galleries and museums, Grovewood Village is located right next to the famous Omni Grove Park Inn. Once home to Biltmore Industries, the complex now protects and promotes Asheville's history and artistic heritage, with plenty to see, do and shop for visitors.

In addition to taking tours of the former industrial complex to learn about Biltmore's past as a weaver and woodworker, visitors can stop by its magnificent museum, which features fascinating exhibits on crafts, textiles and looms. Also located here is the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum, which showcases some brilliant models of classic cars.

After learning all about the history, you can visit some attractive art and craft studios where you can see how jewelry, pottery and sculptures are made, as well as buy some souvenirs. Grovewood Village also has two galleries displaying the works and crafts of local artists.

8. Lexington Glassworks

Lexington Glassworks

Along one of Asheville's trendiest streets is Lexington Glassworks, where you can watch innovative works of art take shape before your eyes. Since opening downtown in 2015, the gallery has wowed visitors with its unique creations and hand-blown glass works.

Mixing traditional and timeless techniques with bold designs and imaginative shapes, the studio's artists skillfully sculpt molten glass, bringing their colorful creations to life. Watching them is truly a pleasure: they carefully hand-blow glass ornaments and chandeliers in front of you.

Because Lexington Glassworks offers visitors a unique combination of "art, community and beer," visitors can also enjoy a local Asheville brew while watching the glassblowers at work. With monthly musical events and concerts, the studio is much more than just a place to pick up some unique souvenirs.

9. Thomas Wolfe Memorial

Thomas Wolfe Memorial

The magnificent Thomas Wolfe Memorial is located in the center of downtown Asheville and is well worth a visit if you have the opportunity. The famed 20th century author spent much of his boyhood in this old home, which he even utilized as the scene for his novel Look Homeward, Angel.

The novel is mostly autobiographical and depicts his life in his mother's boarding house. Despite the fact that his writings gained him recognition and praise, the villagers were so outraged by them that he did not return to town for eight years, and the novel was even banned from the local library.

The writer's boyhood home is now a museum and monument, with many original antiques on display. There are also educational plaques and exhibitions concerning Thomas Wolfe's life, writings, and the house itself.

10. River Arts District.

River Arts District is a cultural district on the banks of the

The River Arts District in Asheville spans along the banks of the magnificent French Broad River. Its formerly derelict and rotting warehouses now accommodate over 200 artists in a diverse range of studios, galleries, and workshops.

It's a highly creative and eclectic space with an astonishing variety of artwork on exhibit, including pottery, photography, glassware, artwork, and furniture. Visitors can take classes from the painters in their workshops in addition to viewing their colorful and chaotic studios.

The River Arts District has transformed dramatically since artists began moving into abandoned buildings in the 1970s; B&Bs, hotels, and even huge hotels have sprung alongside cafes, restaurants, and breweries.

11. Craggy Gardens

Craggy Gardens is a place where you can go to relax and

The lovely Craggy Gardens, tucked in the Great Craggy Mountains, are located to the northeast of the city. They are noted for their amazing floral displays, with June being the most magical season to come. They are named for the craggy rocky outcroppings that dot their gorgeous bounds.

The exquisite gardens, which are made up of three equally spectacular areas and are located more than 1,600 meters above sea level, are mountainous and made up of three equally impressive sections. There are intriguing routes to wander along with amazing views of the Appalachians in its lovely meadows, flower-filled hillsides, and exposed rocky surfaces.

Although many people come to see the pink and purple rhododendrons in June, Craggy's gardens are always vibrant, with plants and flowers flowering all year.

12. Asheville's downtown area

Asheville's downtown area

Downtown Asheville is a bustling yet laid-back atmosphere with enough to see and do, and it's a joy to explore with something for everyone. For its magnificent variety of Art Deco structures, it's been dubbed the "Paris of the South," and it also offers a thriving artistic, cultural, and music scene for visitors to explore.

While walking the Asheville Urban Trail is a great opportunity to see the city's beautiful artwork and architecture-filled streets, there are also interesting historical landmarks and museums in the downtown area. Downtown also has excellent art galleries and craft breweries, as well as a dynamic ambiance thanks to its many street entertainers.

In addition, the city's large artist population has resulted in a plethora of interesting boutiques and beautiful studios to visit. Downtown Asheville is unquestionably one of the most lively and celebratory areas in North Carolina, with a plethora of clubs and music venues.

#asheville #things to do in asheville

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kylosupremeimagines · 4 years

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Going On Vacation With Them Would Include: (Kylo, Adam, Clyde, and Charlie)

Kylo:

Being in such a vast galaxy, there would be so many places that he could take you to for some time alone. In the end, he decided to take you to his favorite place he’s visited with his mother in his childhood: Naboo. Or more specific, Theed. There was just something about it that he loved. From the beautiful architecture to Lake County being close by, there was so much to do. So of course you wouldn’t get bored during your vacation in the city with him!

He was surprisingly looking forward to visiting the palace with you. Kylo remembered a few times he would with his mother when she was on business there so he already had a few fond memories from the palace. It was a bit strange for him to be back touring the palace but to be able to show you all the history behind it was actually enjoyable for him. It brought him back to some of the few good moments from his childhood when he came with Leia. But nonetheless, being able to spend some time with you there was enough for him.

You certainly can’t go to Theed without visiting the Lake Country. One day, you went out there to enjoy the sites of the waterfalls, the fields. With the fact that you rented an entire suite in your hotel, Kylo was able to cook you up a lunch to enjoy out there in a picnic. If you were interested, you could go swimming with him, skinny dipping even! Afterwards, he surprised you with a trip to his distant family’s lake country estate, Varykino. Although you weren’t able to stay there, at least being able to see it was a wonderful sight.

Another thing that he was excited to show you was a marketplace in the city. It had a plethora of shops and stalls for you to explore. He even surprised you with a small piece of jewelry from one of them. His favorite part was when you stopped by a garden side cafe where you shared lunch together and talked for a while as you ate. After, you just explored the garden and surrounding area. You brought back some nice souvenirs to keep as mementos reminding you of the trip you went on with Kylo.

Adam: (As a resident of Massachusetts, I can confirm the Cape is a very nice place to go on vacation!

Considering he’s enjoyed the couple of times he went with his family growing up, Adam wanted to bring you to Cape Cod in Massachusetts for a week or so to get away from everything in New York. You could get there after a short road trip and there would be plenty to do for the week away. The trip down there was pretty fun, stopping at a few places along the way to eat. The bridge connecting the arm to the mainland was interesting since you got to see a lot of boats going under.

One of the musts to him for visiting is to take some time to head to ProvinceTown, the tip of the arm! There’s so much to do down there that you had to spend an entire day dedicated to the town. For lunch you went to a restaurant where you got to sit by the ocean. There was also the option to either go on a seal or whale watch, to which he’d let you pick between. Also, there’s the stretch of shops along the road right by the water. Jokingly, he took you into one of the sex shops just to look around. But hey, if you ended up finding something you liked, then you could get it!

Getting to his interest of exercise, you two rented some bikes and took a ride down the bike bath to see a lot of different sites. Despite it being a busy tourist season during the summer, there weren’t too many people on the trail to make it hard to enjoy. Through the trail, you stopped by Hot Chocolate Sparrow, a candy and coffee shop that you spent a little time at. You also went through Nickerson State Park which gave you some time to enjoy the wildlife.

Of course you can’t go to Cape cod without going to some of the beaches! There are plenty of them so no matter where on the cape you were staying, there was always close by to go swimming. Adam loved being able to see you in your bathing suit, maybe even teasing you a lot on the beach. And even though there are beaches in New York, there was just something different about being there. As a fun gamer you and Adam took some time collecting shells to see who could find the most. Whoever won got to pick where to go to eat that night.

Clyde:

For your first real vacation together with Clyde, he surprised you with a trip up to the mountains. He rented a small cabin for you and him to have some privacy. For the week, he took time off from work so that he wouldn’t need to worry about going in. The others working at the bar knew very well how important this trip with you was so they all made sure to have someone filling in and available at all times. He was extremely grateful for them, seeing as how there would be no distractions.

Being up in the woods, of course you two went on a nice hike around the mountain and lake. It was the first time in a while he went on such a long hike and was honestly relaxing for Clyde. Being able to take in such fresh air and see wildlife up close was one of his favorite things to do as a child. To now experience it with you was a new memory that he would forever cherish. While out on the trail, he made sure to capture some photos to put into a family album he’d been making over the years.

Even if you didn’t sleep outside, one night you and Clyde sat out by a fire pit after the sun went down. You cooked some hot dogs over the fire and talked for hours. And then you even roasted some marshmallows to make fresh s’mores. He nearly fell asleep when you cuddled under your stars to watch them for a while. He lost track of time as you enjoyed the sight together. With how relaxing laying on a hammock beside you and hearing the crickets, how could he not nearly fall asleep?

No matter if you were any good at fishing or not, he took you out onto the lake in a boat so that you could fish together. Since he did it often as a child, he was pretty great at it. You two ended up up catching a few fish that you were able to bring back to the cabin. There, he took some time to prepare the fish and cook it for dinner that night. You sat outside with him at sun down with some drinks and the fish, enjoying a nicely prepared meal for the night.

Charlie:

As cliche as it may be for an artist, especially someone in the theater scene, he would want to take you around Los Angeles and even Hollywood. Although partially it would be to get some inspiration for his work, he still wanted to be able to enjoy such a popular destination spot with you; it doesn’t matter if he’s living in the area at the time to be closer to Henry. He felt as if he didn’t get enough time just to enjoy his young life when married to Nicole, so he was going to change it. Why not go out and enjoy the city with you?

He didn’t care that he had a place of his own close by to the city, he still wanted to rent out a hotel room for the two of you to share and get the real experience. Sure it wasn’t the best in the city so that the money wasn’t wasted, but at least it was really nice. There was a small balcony for you to enjoy drinks together at night, and the shower was big enough for the both of you to have some fun if you so wanted to. And the view was not too shabby as you could see the illuminated city when it got dark out.

One of the first places that he’d bring you to is Hollywood Boulevard since it’s one of the most go to places in the area. Maybe it was a little bit expected but he was excited about a lot of it. Why not get one of the most authentic Hollywood experiences while you’re there with no other worries than your next activity? He’d bring you to places like the Egyptian Theatre and the wax museums, but of course you went down the walk of fame. There may be a few that he wanted to take a picture with but he would be more than happy to stop and take a few for you too.

While you’re there, you’d just have to go and see a show or two. It doesn’t matter what if to Charlie as long as he could experience some Hollywood theater with you. He’d want to plan ahead and get the tickets in advance. So before the show, he’d sit down with you and look into various shows that you could go to. He turned it into a date night with you, where he’d take you out to a nice restaurant afterwards and enjoy a night on the town. Of course, you could enjoy some time in bed later. ;)

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#Kylo Ren Headcanons #Adam Sackler Headcanons #Clyde Logan Headcanons #Charlie Barber Headcanons #Kylo Ren X Reader #Adam Sackler X Reader #Charlie Barber X REader #Clyde Logan X Reader #Adam Driver

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sunny143sr · 3 years

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Top 10 places to visit in Italy

Italy is a lovely country, globally loved for providing an eclectic combination of visitor attractions. Vacationers, on one hand, love to enjoy the amazing Roman ruins of Pompeii, Rome, and Herculaneum, and on the other, can’t resist traveling to Venice and Tuscany for his or her romantic appeal.

The USA is likewise regarded for its natural sights and scenic landscapes that ship you to any other world. They are spellbinding, charming, and dumbfounding to mention the least. Virtually words don’t do justice at all. You obtain to see them trust us. However, we gained will let you get lost in the maps!

Right here are the pinnacle 10 cities, which might be additionally the pinnacle hubs of vacationer locations in Italy, which are sinfully excellent. You just can’t face up to their seduction!

Earlier than we go to the information, a quick look at the grandeur of top traveler locations in Italy!

1. Tuscany – You simply can’t leave out the greens here!

Tuscany has continually been the center of enterprise, art, and politics in Europe. The various maximum lovely locations to visit in Italy, the town also received a whole lot of prominence as a primary metropolis of the Renaissance length. Great work of artwork can be seen and loved via the art fans coming to this city. Tuscany is also famous for its notable crafts. Substances used to create awesome craft gadgets are timber, metallic, leather-based, marble, and more.

Key attractions: The Gallery of Uffizi acknowledged for its extremely good museums, treasures, palaces, and churches; excellent perspectives of Siena and the Palio; the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and Piazza Dei Miracoli for his or her particular architecture; beautiful villages; and the scenic vineyards of Chianti.

Fine time to go to September – October, and April – June

Read More: American Airlines

3. Italian Lake District – The metropolis of lakes and fashionistas

Positioned in Italy’s Northern area, the Italian Lake District is known for its stunning lakes. This location has been one of the well-known Italian traveler places since the Roman instances. Each year, a large variety of tourists visit this stunning destination to admire and revel in its lovely scenic locales, Lake Garda and Lake Como. The destination is likewise recognized for its actual Italian cuisine and is frequented by fashionistas to explore the boutiques.

Key attractions: Lake Garda, Lake Como, Lake, Lake Lugano, Lake Maggiore, Lake Orta, Mediaeval castles, Renaissance Palazzi, fishing villages, and the craggy peaks of Dolomites

A pleasant time to go to September and May

4. Sicily – Wandering in the ruins is amusing too!

Sicily is the most popular tourist destination in Italy for its ancient Greek ruins. The vacation spot has been ruled by Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, and Ostrogoths. The glimpses in their rule can be still visible in the ruins. The stays of the Norman generation's notable architectural achievements additionally attract a wide variety of traffic. The duration architecture is the most important appeal inside the metropolis and is appreciated by site visitors who wish to know more about the bygone technology and its triumphs.

Key points of interest: the Aeolian Islands, Agrigento archaeological website online a.K.The Valley of Temples, the well-known cathedral Cefalu, the hilltop town Erice, Mount Etna, and the Nebrodi Mountains

5. Cinque Terre – Witness a few thoughts-blowing sunsets right here!

Referred to as “The 5 Lands”, Cinque Terre is one of the prettiest needs to see places in Italy. Beautiful vistas at the rugged coastline of Sicily are well worth admiring. The five fishing villages are related through taking walks trails and exploring them is a great concept. Furthermore, this entire region has been declared as a UNESCO international historical past website online.

Key sights: Vernazza fishing village for its cliff, twelfth Century Manarola fishing village for its Groppo and Ruins of Fortifications, Monterosso village for its church buildings and Monastery, Riomaggiore village for its craggy hills, Corniglia for its 382 stars, and The 12 km Blue course

Fine time to go to March – July

6. Amalfi Coast – A absolutely distinctive vacation spot

Amalfi Coast is one of the most exclusive European destinations, recognized for its ecstatic coasts bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It's miles perfect for exploring nature's marvels in Italy. Positano and Fiordo of Furore are places placed close by and call for quite a time to experience its wonderful sights.

Key sights: astonishing perspectives from Ravello, an implementing and attractive cathedral of Duomo, Spiaggia di Arechi, and the 8th century Salerno citadel

Best time to go to July and August

7. Milan – A spell-binding fashion hub

Italy’s most cosmopolitan city, Milan is famous for soccer and style. The destination is likewise regarded for its herbal points of interest and fashion shows that are prepared two times a yr. The city witnesses the influx of shoppers, designers, and supermodels from all around the world at some stage in the shows. An extremely good thought to the global fashion designers, Milan is absolutely some of the locations to see in Italy.

Key sights: The famous Basilica Sant’Ambrogio devoted to Milan’s client saint, the huge Cemetery of some of the tremendous celebrities of the place, Piazza Mercanti administrative center of Milan, pieces of artwork on the Pinacoteca di Brera, and the twelfth century Navigli Lombardi canal

Great time to go to: past due September – October, and March – might also

8. Pompeii – A walk down the lanes of records

Placed near the Mount Vesuvius foothills, Pompeii is a historical metropolis, and around 80 BC, the vacation spot became a prime port metropolis. Numerous websites offer glimpses of the Roman rule over the metropolis, that's a UNESCO World history website these days. Its discovery within the year 1748 supplied plenty of statistics about the erstwhile Roman Empire. Humans like to visit this city and explore the properly-preserved ruins to find out more about this city.

Key attractions: Antiquarium museum that gives a lot of information about this fabled metropolis, discussion board Roman metropolis square, Temple of Jupiter constructed on a raised 3-meter base, Teatro Grande, Teatro Piccolo, ancient Stabian Baths, and residence of Menander

best time to visit: April

9. Venice – The floating town

View of the Rio Marin Canal with boats and gondolas from the Ponte de la Bergami in Venice

Venice – the floating metropolis – draws a large number of travelers all-spherical the year. However, its splendor and romantic gondola rides make it the quality of most of the places to go to in Italy for a honeymoon. Many canals are crisscrossing thru the town. The time when the vacation spot witnesses a surge of travelers is throughout Carnevale. Humans sporting colorful costumes and masks are worth watching in their glory. The city is replete with loads of churches, cathedrals, theaters, and art galleries.

Key attractions: Piazza San Marco aka the Drawing Room of Europe using Napoleon, housing St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Torre dell Orologio clock tower, Scuola Grande di San Rocco, and the Grand Canal

Nice time to visit: late February – Early may additionally

10. Rome – The town of affection

Rome, with its stunning attractions and points of interest, is a far cherished destination amongst die-difficult romantics. It has loads of museums, artwork galleries, and theaters that provide perception into its wealthy culture and ancient past. A few of the pleasant locations to visit in Italy with your own family, Rome lets the site visitors understand more about the development of Western Civilization, the boom and progress of Christianity, and the deep-rooted history of the archeological websites.

Key sights: St Peter’s Basilica is known to be the largest and grandest church within the globe, Roman Empire’s famous Colosseum with an ability to accommodate 55,000 spectators, Piazza Navona fountains constructed inside the seventeenth century, Pantheon built using Emperor Hadrian in the memory of Pagan Gods, and Trevi Fountain

Nice time to go to October – April

#top 10 places to visit in italy #top places #italy #vacation #best place for vacation

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sellhousefast323 · 3 years

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9 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Roanoke, VA

Roanoke is a popular tourist destination, whether you're a culture vulture seeking out unique museums and attractions or an active vacationer seeking out outdoor adventures. The city is a four-season destination for avid hikers, rock climbers, recreational boaters, and sportfishing enthusiasts, and is located in the picturesque Roanoke Valley in southwestern Virginia. In-town greenways, cultural diversions, diverse dining, and unique shopping discoveries await urban explorers. Whatever your vacation style, keep our list of Roanoke's top attractions and things to do handy.

1. Mill Mountain Park & the Roanoke Star

Mill Mountain Park, which is home to the famous Roanoke Star (also known as the Mill Mountain Star), has more than 10 miles of multi-use trails (hiking, walking, and biking) where visitors can experience the region's all-season natural beauty.

Take the Mill Mountain Star Trail, a 3.5-mile round-trip from the base trail, to the summit of Mill Mountain, the city's highest point at 1,703 feet, for a moderately challenging hike. Hikers are rewarded with two scenic overlooks atop the mountain after climbing 838 feet in elevation. The Star Trail parking lot, located just off Riverland Road SE at the Star/Wood Thrush Connector, has plenty of free parking and clear signage.

Connect with the short Watchtower Trail for the best panoramic views and photos right at the base of the Roanoke Star, one of Virginia's most famous landmarks. The National Register of Historic Landmarks has listed this unusual landmark, which was built in 1949 as a temporary Christmas decoration by the local merchants association. The giant star, at 89 feet in height, is America's largest star. It is visible from up to 60 miles away and is lit every evening until midnight.

Hikers are welcome to bring their leashed dogs, and there are picnic tables, restrooms, and water along the Mill Mountain Spur Trail en route to the Discovery Center, a naturalist centre with exhibits on the park, local wildlife, and trail maps. Mill Mountain Zoo, a small but lively enclave with local critters such as the Indian crested porcupine, red wolf, and yellow-spotted side-necked turtle, will appeal to children of all ages.

2. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, with more than 60 miles of trails surrounding an 800-acre reservoir, is known among locals as a haven for off-road mountain biking. The reserve, which is the second largest municipal park in the United States, spans nearly 13,000 acres, the majority of which is protected by the state of Virginia's largest conservation easement.

Trail maps are available for purchase, and bikers can get local advice on which trails are best suited for their experience level at Just The Right Gear, a cycling shop near the Bennett Springs parking lot (one of three reserve entrances — the others are Marina and Timber View). There are also rentals of high-end bikes and gear.

On the Easy Street, Kit & Kaboodle, The Skillet, and Enchanted Forest trails, beginners will find a gentler rise and more flats. On the Comet, Gauntlet, Hoe Trail, and Clownshead, riders seeking more difficult challenges will get exactly what they want. On the most difficult trails, expect to gain up to 2,400 feet in elevation.

Along these well-kept trails, riders will encounter packed dirt, loose gravel, and tamped soil. Canoeing (equipment rentals and instruction are available) and fishing are also popular activities at Carvins Cove.

3. Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake, one of Virginia's most popular — and the state's largest — has nearly 500 miles of shoreline, earning it the title of "Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains." Because state fisheries keep the lake well stocked, SML, as it's known by locals, has an especially impressive striped bass population. Anglers can book half- or full-day charters with a number of licenced guides who have plenty of experience traversing the 21,000-acre lake. They'll provide bait, equipment, and all of the necessary expertise to ensure that those fishing have a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Crappies, bluegills, largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as stripers, are among the tasty fish that make freshwater fishing at SML a popular tourist destination.

Waterskiing and wakeboarding, boating and sailing, and jet skiing are all fun activities to do on the lake. Swimming is also available at a family-friendly beach, and there are several golf courses nearby.

4. Roanoke Valley Greenways

The interconnected Roanoke Valley Greenway allows visitors to walk or bike along miles of trails in the area, which are safe, well-populated, and well-maintained. A popular trail in and around Roanoke is right along the Roanoke River, where deer, herons, geese, and other wildlife can be seen even in the city. Vic Thomas Park, just off Memorial Drive south of the river, is a great place to start your exploration. From there, you can easily join the Roanoke River Greenway.

A short distance away is the well-known Black Dog Salvage. Every visit to this nationally recognised purveyor of reclaimed architectural, commercial, and industrial fixtures and elements yields a fascinating, one-of-a-kind inventory. Visitors come from all 50 states to see Black Dog, which specialises in doors, windows, wrought iron, period lighting, garden statuary, and other specialty home components.

Head southeast on the Roanoke River Greenway towards Wasena Park after visiting Black Dog. At the Wasena Skate Park, kids can be seen hanging ten on their longboards. The park is always bustling with activity, and the locals' fancy footwork on their skateboards and blades is entertaining to watch.

On your way to the Tinker Creek Greenway, continue on the greenway and cross the Mill Mountain Greenway. Follow that road north for less than a mile and reward yourself with a picnic at Fallon Park's picnic area.

5. Taubman Museum of Art

The Taubman Museum of Art, one of the city's newest attractions (it opened in 2008), is a must-see for art lovers and casual culture consumers alike. The museum's permanent collection of 2,000 unique pieces is spread across 11 different galleries, including works by Thomas Cowperthwaite Eakins, Purvis Young, and John Cage, and is housed in a stunning modern design by renowned architect Randall Stout.

Visiting exhibits featuring work by some of America's best artists, including John James Audubon and Norman Rockwell, to name a few, are common. Photographic, folk art, and design-related exhibits are among the other highlights.

If you're travelling with children, look into children's programmes, such as hands-on workshops and interactive displays. On-site amenities include a café.

6. McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob is one of the most photographed places on the Appalachian Trail, thanks to its incredible vistas and spectacular rock overhang perch. The 3.5 miles of intermediate-to-difficult trails that lead up to the knob from the Virginia 311 parking lot are popular with hikers.

Climbers know it for the more than 70 gnarly sandstone and slick quartzite boulders that make for days of mini-summits. The majority of boulders are between 10 and 20 feet tall, with many crimps, jugs, pockets, and edges. Bring pads, lunch, and a buddy; it's never a good idea to go rock climbing alone, and McAfee is often deserted.

Another popular recreational area in Roanoke is the recently re-opened Explore Park, which is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The park features 1,100 acres of breathtaking scenery, numerous walking and hiking trails, as well as thrilling ziplines and a treetop adventure course that is appropriate for families with younger children. It also has a visitor centre and a gift shop, as well as camping and rustic cabins.

7. Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve

Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve is a popular destination for birders, nature lovers, and photographers. Bottom Creek, located less than 20 miles south of Roanoke, is one of the most important headwaters for the Roanoke River, and it offers visitors several well-marked trails to enjoy the vast hardwood forest, unspoiled landscape, and Virginia's second highest waterfall.

For the best vantage point to photograph the 200-foot cascading waterfall, the second tallest in Virginia, photographers should take the Red Trail (the longest trail here, at five miles round-trip). Bring a long/telephoto lens because the overlook at the end of the trail offers a clear, open shot, but the falls are a long way away. A side path off the Yellow Trail leads to other viewpoints of the falls.

8. Roanoke City Market

The historic City Market, also known as the Farmers' Market by locals, is open all year and offers boutique shopping, local produce, flowers, meat and cheese, local dining favourites, and some of Virginia's best people-watching. Pay close attention to the market's four mosaic tiled entrances, each of which contains over 2,000 pounds of porcelain tiles that reveal a little bit of the history of this storied public space.

9. Roanoke Pinball Museum

We’ve recently started a new family hobby – vintage record collecting! In keeping with this new found connection over the beloved old, we were delighted to take our girls to the Roanoke Pinball Museum and show them how we entertained ourselves long before the internet.

From the 1932 styles to the slightly more modern Munster’s machine which had a baby pinball inside the bigger one to play, you could get lost in here playing over 65 machines for hours.

Prime Home Buyers is a real estate brokerage firm based in Roanoke, United States. We are known for offering an easy and quick house-selling experience to our clients.

We offer upfront selling solutions to our clients, satisfying their requirements. We have been serving as real estate investors for over a decade and know all the tricks of this trade. Prime Home Buyers can provide you with the best real estate offerings and prices. We are the experts you are looking for if you want to sell your house fast and at the best price. Besides our expertise in buying houses, we also provide commercial property investment.

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footloose-travel · 4 years

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Plan B

We were hanging around Montana for almost 6 weeks waiting for the Canadian border to open so we could cross over and slowly make our way up to Alaska. The original plan was to start around June 1st but as we know the best laid plans and all that. When Canada made the decision to extend the border closure until mid July we decided it was too late for us to go to Alaska this season. We always talked about Plan B as our option if the border wasn’t opened by June 21st but to be honest we didn’t really have a concrete Plan B. I think we both felt for sure things would work out the way we hoped since they almost always do, so it was with some reluctance that we accepted that this time Plan B was actually going to be what was next for us. We loved Montana but had been there before and once the decision was made to wait on Alaska, it was time to leave. Montana is one of the states least affected by Covid-19 so we were insulated from the worst of it and barely had any impact on our lifestyle at all. Another thing to love about Montana. We started by backtracking into Idaho and spent time in Idaho Falls. I had never been there before and found it to be quite nice. The city hugs the Snake River with a Greenbelt system of trails with parks and waterfalls. The hydroelectric plant originally built in 1902 provides the electricity for the city and surrounding areas. We were glad to find out the Museum of Idaho was partially open (history part was closed for renovations) and we enjoyed the science section immensely. From there we went to the Idaho side of Bear Lake. This natural freshwater lake is 109 square miles in size and is split about equally between the 2 sIdes of the Idaho-Utah border. We drove the scenic route around the lake and stopped several times to take photos and appreciate the beauty. We had a nice shady spot in the campground we stayed in and the overall place had a nice comfortable vibe. John was asking a local couple about things to do while we were there and they had several suggestions, one of which was to take a drive up to Bloomington Lake. This lake they said was quite beautiful but to get there you had to drive on a gravel dirt road for about 7 miles through dense forest following a stream, and then park and hike in about a 1/2 mile to actually get to the lake. We thought this would be a fun adventure so got in our trusty pickup truck and headed out. The road turned out to be a single lane that got gradually more pot-holed the further in we drove. There was only one vehicle we encountered coming the other way and were fortunate we were in a spot that was wide enough for both of us to get through. We finally got to a part that was gated closed 3 miles from the lake due to mud from snow melts that previous tourists made impassable by vehicle. Unwilling to make the 6 mile round trip hike to the lake and back we decided to turn around. That’s where the fun began. As we made our way slowly down the road we encountered several more vehicles and always had to do some slow maneuvering between us to get past. Every time we had our windows down and exchanged greetings along with the information that the road to the lake was closed. Some kept going willing to make the hike while others turned around. We then encountered 3 pick up trucks traveling together, the third one having dual wheels. We pulled up as close as we could to the edge of a drop off to the creek and the first 2 got past. The third truck apparently pulled further onto the upside embankment and disturbed a large boulder that went under the truck. The driver tried to proceed further lodging the boulder forward of the rear axle so he was stuck. There was only an inch to spare on either side of us between his truck and the dirt embankment. A guy got out of the truck and said he would guide us past. At first we didn’t want to try it because the embankment was not sturdy and we really didn’t want to end up in the creek. He assured us he would guide us and John said, “If I go into the creek I’m going to kick your ass”. The guy said, “It’s on me”, with a smile. So we slowly proceeded following his instructions. I was worried and my heart rate was up but we slowly inched past. As we drove on I felt a little bad for the guy that was stuck because he was not going to go anywhere with that boulder lodged under his truck. Plus there were people behind us in a van that had turned around when we told them about the closure. They had a baby with them and I was hoping they wouldn’t get stuck for long. We were still several miles in before getting to a main road and we felt quite fortunate to have gotten away from the cluster it became. Going around a blind curve we came head on to an older guy in a Quad going way too fast. He had to jam on his breaks and actually looked a bit annoyed. We didn’t bother telling him about the issue up the road. We then came upon a local couple who we relayed the story to and he shook his head in amusement and said it wasn’t the first time someone had to be rescued from that road. Fortunately he had a winch and said he knew the road like the back of his hand since he grew up there. They continued on to offer their help and we felt a lot better about dodging that bullet. With the 4th of July holiday approaching and knowing campgrounds fill up, we needed a place to hunker down during the mayhem. We first spent a couple days in Fort Bridger, WY an important stop on the Oregon Trail before proceeding to Coalville, UT (about 25 miles north of Park City). We found a decent campground close to the Rail Trail that runs from Echo to Park City. It is an old railroad bed that goes by Echo Reservoir and is a great hiking trail. We hiked the trail a couple different ways and the weather has been beautiful. Besides exploring the local area and surrounding towns we went into Salt Lake City where I got my first time view of the huge lake. John went skydiving one day at SkyDive Utah and got to see the Lake from the air that he said was quite magnificent. Also drove through Kamas to Mirror Lake and it felt more like Colorado than Utah with lots of evergreens and mountains. From here we are heading to Elko, Nevada to the beautiful mountain range area. So far Plan B is working just fine. For all the photos see John and Charlotte’s flickr sites. Just click on either of our names.

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topfygad · 4 years

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Corfu island – epitomizes the Magic of the Greek Isles

Corfu Ionian Islands The Greek IslandsApril 16, 2020

The reason Corfu is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece is that it one of the greenest, with dense vegetation. The island is located in the Ionian island group, west of the Greek mainland.

Despite the island attracting a lot of visitors, it has retained its wild beauty, making it perfect for hikes along narrow mountain paths and trails. On these walks, you’ll experience the wondrous nature of the island as well as tiny villages, monasteries, monuments and splendid views of the Ionian Sea. The trails are marked by yellow signs and the walks are most times suitable for kids as well.

Corfu Island: Just so Much Variety

Much of Corfu is mountainous. In fact, it was during the Middle Ages that the island had the name Corypho which actually means ‘Place with peaks’. It is thought to have been named after the two peaks of the island’s highest mountain Pantokrator. Most places on the island are visible from the mountain peak.

The beauty of the island isn’t confined to just one part of the island either, and magnificent resorts are spread around the island. If you had to choose, you might opt for the north of the island as it is more hilly and there are lots of beautiful little bays.

You’ll be amazed at the crystal clear water and coves. The island has some 217 kilometers of coast, but if you’re not a beach lover, the interior has plenty to offer as well.

A Mix of Sightseeing, Nightlife and Shopping

If you want a taste of what Corfu is all about, there are many half- and full-day tours for those who want a taste of the place. Corfu is always a popular destination and you can also hire a minibus with driver and enjoy a magical day of sightseeing. A trip like this could include Aqualand, Achilleion Palace, the view of Mouse Island or the must-see monastery at Paleokastritsa, set on a hill about the beach.

Achilleion Palace

A trip to the old town to explore the fortress and do some shopping has to be on your to-do list as well. Speaking of shopping, for those who want to make waves in Corfu and don’t mind bending their bank balances, there is a never-ending list of must-see and must-do activities.

Best Time to Visit Corfu

The beauty of visiting the Greek isles is that they are pretty much all-year-around holiday destinations. However, it also depends on what experience you’re looking for.

The climate on Corfu is generally mild with hot and dry Summers and mild winters. The winter may appeal to those who want to avoid the crowds as this is when the island is extremely quiet. Many of the restaurants and hotels actually close.

January is the coldest month on the island and July and August are the hottest months with temperatures being capable of soaring to 35°C(95°F), with some days becoming even hotter. With such high temperatures, you’ll want to be on the beach, but you’ll be sharing the sand with plenty of other beach visitors as July and August are the island’s peak tourist times.

Everything is expensive in Corfu over this peak holiday time. If you visit out of these peak times you can cut down a great deal on your flight and accommodation costs.

How to get to Corfu

Airplane flying over Mouse Island

It is one of the easiest islands to visit from the UK, with direct flights from many of the airports and all flying to Corfu International Airport. Incidentally, the Kanoni area offers excellent views of the airport and it can be quite entertaining watching the planes taking off and landing.

There are flights every day and all year from Athens to the airport at Corfu. During the island’s high season, there are also charter flights available from all over Europe.

Book you taxi in advance

Private airport pickup can be pre-arranged and this will save you all the hassle. You can Book Your Corfu Airport Taxi – to get you directly from the airport straight to your hotel and they usually have the same price of a taxi or a little bit more. The best thing is that even if your flight is delayed, you’ll have no problem as the driver will be monitoring the flight anyway. You will be met by the driver holding a name sign as soon as you come out at the arrivals with a bottle of water and city map.

To get you into the holiday mood, you can catch one of the open ferries or hydrofoils from various ports such as from Paxi, Brindisi, Trieste, Patras or Igoumenitsa.

Getting Around the Island

If you’re a fitness fanatic, you may want to rent a bike on the island as it’s a great, affordable way to see Corfu. There are quite a few bicycle rentals but the one which comes to mind is Corfu Cycles.

You can rent one of their bikes or even join one of their cycling tours. When you hire a bike from them you get helmet, lock, repair kit, bottle holder and a safety vest plus roadside assistance which is included in the price. They will also deliver and pick up your bike if needed.

Buses are another way to get around. The main bus terminal in Corfu is San Rocco Square. The green buses are long-distance and the blue buses are short-distance. Local blue buses depart from the local bus station in Corfu Old Town. Ticket prices are according to the journey length. Tickets can be bought on the bus. You’ll notice that bus services are somewhat reduced over the weekend.

There is also a Day Ticket which costs roughly 5,50 € and which is valid for a day, offering unlimited rides for all destinations.

Car- and scooter rentals are also available. To hire these transport-modes, you have to be 21 years of age. Both cars and bikes can be delivered to where you are staying.

Shopping in Corfu:

Shops open for business between 8-9 am to 2:30 pm. They close for siesta time, opening doors again at 5:30 pm until 8:30 – 9:00pm. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Main town in Corfu:

Corfu Town is the capital of the Greek island of Corfu. The Old Town of Corfu city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is absolutely beautiful and you’ll love the Venetian architecture found alongside the quaint, winding cobblestone streets. Here are some of the highlights which you should definitely put on your list of places to see:

St. Spyridon Church

The Saint Spyridon Church is one of the most important landmarks on Corfu. Dedicated to the patron saint of the island, Saint Spyridon, it was built in the 1580s and houses his relics. The beautiful single-nave basilica with its imposing bell tower is visible from various parts of Corfu Old Town.

The Old Fortress of Corfu

This imposing Venetian fortress is hard to miss. As it dominates the front part of the Corfu Old Town, this massive fortification plays a crucial role in the history of Corfu.

The entrance to the Old Fortress is located just a short walk from Liston Square and to reach the grounds you must cross a small wooden bridge. From here you can enjoy wonderful views of Corfu’s Old Town. There is also a fabulous lighthouse known as the Sea-Town which offers spectacular views.

Spianada

This large square in front of the Corfu Old Town set across from the Old Fortress, is one of the largest squares in Greece. Liston which was build by the French is part of the Spianada square and houses numerous cafes and bars.

Cricket matches used to be played on the Esplanade, the only place in Greece where this sport was played.

Museum of Asian Art

Located right in the heart of Corfu’s Old Town inside the Palace of St. Michael and St. George it is the only museum in Greece which is dedicated to the art of Asia and features a remarkable collection of Chinese, Japanese and India art among others. In the summer there are several concerts taking place at the outdoor premises of the museum.

The New Fortress of Corfu

The New Fortress is a Venetian fortification built on the hill of St. Mark in Corfu in several stages.The original structure was completed in the 16th century by a military engineer Ferrante Vitelli and is located across from the Old Fortress. What is visible today inside the fortress are works which were built by the British during their ruling in Corfu.

Mon Repos Palace

A neoclassical building set at the east side of Paleopolis, which was Corfu’s ancient city. It was built in 1830 by the British Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam right at the beginning of the Kanoni peninsula opposite the ruins of Paleopolis. It is not as glorious as the Achilleion palace yet it overs spectacular sea views extending all the way to the eastern coast of Corfu island.

Nightlife in Corfu:

Corfu is one of the most cosmopolitan of the Greek Islands with a vibrant nightlife. The island is geared towards tourism and it presents its visitors and locals with an excellent line-up of trendy restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Most of the pubs and bars open early in the morning and remain so past midnight into the early hours of the morning. The nightlife is offered at lots of different venues, from restaurants to disco clubs to lap dance clubs and pool halls.

The most popular night-life destinations are Kavos, Ipsos, Sidari, Dassia, Glyfada and Paleokastritsa. If loud music, dancing and exotic cocktails are your thing, then Corfu won’t disappoint.

Fun & Unique Things to Do in Corfu

Governor Olive Oil

The Dafnis family has revived the olive oil production on Corfu. The family olive grove is located in Agios Mathaios, where three generations have been cultivating the aged Lianolia variety olive trees in the family grove. Producing a high quality, award winning olive oil, the Governor has quickly gained world recognition as one of the premium olive oil brands in the world.

The passion for what they do is evident from the moment you step foot on their family olive grove, and when meeting the Dafnis brothers I was instantly impressed by their dedication, — it is truly inspiring. This is definitely one of the top experiences on Corfu, which you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Aqualand

Like all resort islands, Corfu offers tourists and locals unlimited activities to enjoy whether you’re single, a couple, a family or a group. Located on the main road, Aqualand is a must. It is equipped with thrilling slides and pools and is surrounded by beautiful green forests.

There are free sunbeds and umbrellas and lots of restaurants and cafes to keep visitors fed. Qualified lifeguards make sure everyone has a safe, happy time. For all it offers, it is small wonder it’s known as one of the best waterparks in Europe.

Culinary travel

Greek cuisine is so decadently delicious so that many visitors who have tried it want to know more. Food lovers can get the chance to experience fantastic Greek restaurants and learn to cook at the same time. Ambelonas is more than just a restaurant and vineyard. The owner transformed a small artisan food business into a vineyard, restaurant and a venue for light-hearted, casual cooking classes.

Cooking classes take place outdoors, under the tree arches where you participate as a cook or you can just watch. You’ll learn how to make Zucchini pie and Sofrito cooked with white wine and lots of garlic. The Ambelonas restaurant is rated as one of the best in Corfu.

You can also attend pasta making classes, visit a vineyard for wine tasting or visit an olive oil farm where high quality olive oils are produced.

Boat Hire

Did you know that you can hire a boat and cruise around Corfu’s coastline? Check out Agni Boats as they offer a big selection of boats for hire with all the mandatory safety equipment in place.

You can stop over at any of the quiet, beautiful bays and coves along the coast. You get support throughout the rental period and it’s a super, cool way to see some of the island from this fun activity.

Festivals and Markets

Corfu is a vibrant cosmopolitan island and there are always celebrations, festivals, concerts and markets happening. Quite frankly it is beyond the scope of this guide to include all the events planned in Corfu.

Paleokastritsa Monastery

The variety of the island is such that a person needs to spend a year just to get an idea of all that takes place. The Paleokastrítsa’s Varkarola Festival for instance in August commemorates the Ottoman siege of 1716 and there are mock naval battles and plenty of fireworks.

There is also a sardine festival in August as well The Agiotfest soul, rock and folk festival in August.

Best Beaches on Corfu

Ermones Beach:

This most beautiful beach is found about 18 km west of Corfu. It’s a quiet beach, while being busy enough for those who like to take in everything from behind dark sunglasses.

Water sports lovers will be pleased to know that there is a diving center that operates at the beach as the water is super clear for snorkeling and diving. There are plenty of taverns and cafes along the beach as well as beach umbrellas and deck-chairs to ensure you can spend the entire day at the beach.

Paleokastritsa:

Paleokastritsa Beach is postcard-beautiful with its turquoise sea, golden sands and harbors. Many people go on boat trips to other beaches along the coast. The village of Paleokastritsa offers beachgoers plenty of taverns overlooking the bay. The main beach of Paleokastritsa is attractively small and is thought to be one of the finest beaches in the Greek islands.

If you’re particularly looking for child-friendly beaches, the west beaches of Glyfada and Pelekas might be worth a visit.

Where to Stay in Corfu

There is no shortage of hotels and other forms of accommodation in Corfu that offer unbelievable value if you find the right one. There are a number of credible tourism partners in Greece that can offer you quality hotel breaks in the Greek isles.

Between the hotels, bed-and-breakfasts and guesthouses, you can find amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, gyms, health spas and more.

Marbella Corfu:

This is a magnificent 5-star, air conditioned hotel with the most magnificent views and featuring lots of luxurious features. The hotel also has a water park on-site complete with restaurant and bar. It offers other luxury facilities such as kids play area, wifi, flat-screen TV, nightly entertainment, private bathrooms, free toiletries and 24-hour front desk. Read our hotel review here.

Corfu Villa Rainbow:

Beautifully set amongst olive tree groves, Villa Rainbow rooms & Apartments is excellent, affordable self-catering accommodation. It is made up of clean, comfortable, stylish rooms and apartments offering a host of features to ensure a comfortable stay. It is also well situated to Glyfada- and Kontogialos Beach among others.

Summing Up:

The Greek isles are one of the most visited places in the world, and Corfu is one of the popular islands with its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise seawater, active nightlife, amazing nature and unlimited activities.

Your holiday on the island can be as quiet or as active as you like. It’s always crowded in the Summer months with a vibrant atmosphere. Dance and music lovers will be enraptured with the live venues while the many bars and nightclubs attract their own jubilant crowds.

The activities on Corfu are endless, the accommodation vast and varied, with everything being laid on with visitors in mind. It’s no wonder that when you tell people where you’re headed they’re jealous, because Corfu is filled with all the ingredients to ensure that visitors have the time of their lives.

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