Category: North America

Fleeing the cold to weather the storms

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date November 2, 2020
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Author Kellie Paxian Traveling during COVID

Publisher’s Note: We respect that travel is a personal choice and that some depend on travel for their livelihood. Before embarking on travel it is imperative that you monitor your health and research local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19.

A global pandemic, travel bans, and now hurricanes — what else have you got for us, 2020?!

It hasn’t been an easy year for anyone, and although there is no comparison to the struggles faced by those who have dealt with the virus firsthand, the border restrictions related to COVID-19 have taken a toll on travel lovers as we are unable to roam the world like we once did.

Travel is not the same, but it is not impossible, and as someone who based her livelihood and well-being off of travel, it was time to hit the road — as safely and consciously as possible.

As a travel writer, editor, and content creator, along with owning a travel business, Adventurelust, my lifestyle has taken me around the globe to wherever calls my soul and has strong Wi-Fi. While many people find comfort and happiness in being home and in a stable routine, my well-being is heavily related to travel. I had an incredible summer with friends, family, and exploring my home of Canada, but as the weather turned colder and COVID-19 continues to persist, it was time for my nomadic soul to relocate once again. I understand this choice is not for everyone, but for me personally, this was really the only choice.

I am not alone in my mindset of escaping to somewhere more desirable than my dreary homeland during the winter. My destination was Tulum, Mexico, where I encountered plenty of other expats, online workers, and even vacationers who were after the same goal: happiness.

Many had been in Mexico since pre-pandemic days and had just hunkered down during the depths of quarantine. Others were like me, there for a few months because quarantining back at our parents’ house just wasn’t serving our soul. Others were there on vacation, an escape from reality back home. Each of us had our reasons, but there was no shortage of us. I had never visited Tulum and couldn’t even imagine how crowded it must be during the pre-COVID era because there is certainly a fair share of people there now!

Of course, the draws are obvious — Mexico is a quick flight for many North Americans, and is a beautiful, tropical, warm destination where the waters are blue and the tequila is abundant. If that weren’t enough, borders are fully open with no restrictions — no quarantine upon arrival, no COVID-19 test results, no countries are banned. While there is undeniably a more free-spirited vibe here than in the suburbs of British Columbia where I have been for the past six months, there are still masks being worn, sanitizer and temperature checks at most entrances, and social distancing measures in place.

As I arrived in Tulum, Canada felt worlds away. The beach is absolutely stunning, there is life on the streets, the local atmosphere is buzzing, the food and drinks scene is delectable, with tons of delicious and trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars. While my family and friends back home (love you guys!) are bundling up for Canadian winter, my daily attire here consists of flip flops, a bathing suit, and a light cover-up. It’s too hot and humid for a T-shirt let alone a sweatshirt or jacket.

But of course, it’s 2020, so my newfound bliss couldn’t last forever. A few days into arriving in Tulum, a tropical storm hit. Intense winds, horizontal rain, power outages, and debris swept across the streets. Electricity was out in town and we were left with no options for food except for one taco stand with a generator. I’d never experienced a storm like that, but that was only the prelude.

A few days later, Hurricane Delta was on its way. This was a level up from the tropical storm and I didn’t want to wait around and see just how much more serious it could get. I recruited a few friends I had met in Tulum and we set off to Bacalar, a few hours inland and south of Tulum. My only goal was to get away from the coast and out of the hurricane’s path, which was heading due north.

This time I was prepared with snacks, fully charged devices, and downloaded shows and podcasts. Better to be safe than sorry — but I didn’t need it! The storm bypassed Bacalar with only moderate winds and rain, and fleeing the hurricane turned into a nice little getaway to a place that was on my bucket list anyway.

Escaping the storm in Bacalar. Photo: Kellie Paxian

Oh, but wait. 2020 wasn’t done yet.

I had relocated to Isla Mujeres, an island off of the coast of Cancun, beckoned by a less touristy scene, more affordable prices, and a more down-to-earth vibe compared to Tulum. This island is one of my new happy places. I stayed at Nomads Experience and then Selina Hostel, both located right on the beach, and connected with fellow travellers as we lounged in hammocks, ate tacos, and wiggled our toes in the sand. This is what I had been missing and craving so desperately for the better half of 2020.

About five days into my stay at Isla Mujeres, we caught wind that about storm was coming: Zeta. It was a tropical storm edging on hurricane status, and it was heading right for the Yucatan Peninsula.

We were assured that it wouldn’t be seriously threatening, we didn’t have to evacuate the island, and we should just charge our devices (check), stock up on snacks (still got ‘em from the last one) and stay inside once the storm hit (I’m an old pro at this by now).

Hurricane looming in Isla Mujeres. Photo: Kellie Paxian
Photo: Kellie Paxian

Being right on the beach for the storm this time was a wild experience. We felt the winds get stronger and stronger as we progressed into the afternoon. The clouds loomed darker and darker over the ocean. Eventually, the sand was whipping at our legs and in our eyes by the gusts that swept across the entire beach. The wind was so strong I could barely stand up without being blown over (not an exaggeration!). It was time to stay inside while the power flickered once, twice, and then went out for the night. We played music on our phones in the dark, and the wind continued to roar.

That was my third and final tropical storm of the month, and I think I’ve reached my quota. I’m so grateful that none of them resulted in any serious damage, but the storm has continued on and others have not been so lucky. For me, it was an eye-opening experience to witness an ounce of the natural disasters that have been so devastating around the globe.

Just another reminder not to take life for granted and live it to the fullest, while staying as safe as we can.

Cenote diving in Tulum. Photo: @Tulum.breathtaking

Author Kellie Paxian. Cenote diving in Tulum. Photo: @Tulum.breathtaking — Cenote diving in Tulum. Photo: @Tulum.breathtaking

Cover: Author Kellie Paxiant traveling during COVID

Africa Asia Black Lives Matter Consumer and Travel Industry News Culture and Heritage Digital Nomad Health and Safety North America Uncategorized

Safer abroad? Black American travelers are glad to be outside the U.S.

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date July 20, 2020
1 Comment on Safer abroad? Black American travelers are glad to be outside the U.S.

“I hoped things had changed. [George Floyd’s murder] makes me feel like almost nothing has changed. It makes me feel like I wouldn’t mind never going back to America,” says Gene Ellis, a Black American web developer currently in Mexico.

The Black American travel market is a $63 billion industry. Yet, Black American travelers and travel influencers continue to be underrepresented, under-catered-to, and undervalued. The Black Travel Alliance recently launched a campaign, #PullUpforTravel, to hold the industry accountable — urging brands that posted black squares for #blackouttuesday to share their actual diversity scorecards and commitments to action and improvement.

As hate crimes and police violence continue, Black Americans fear for their lives. Back in 2017, one Black travel writer named the “Trump Factor” as the second reason Black Americans should get a passport: “given the current state of white supremacy, shootings of unarmed Black men, murders of Black women while in custody and sex trafficking of underage girls and women going on (all of which are perpetrated by our police) there may come a time when you need to dip.”

“Abroad, any racism I’ve faced has come from fear of the unknown. They have little information and it’s inaccurate; they’re generalizing because they don’t know.”
Gabby Beckford

Feeling unsafe in the U.S., many Black Americans are glad to be in other countries — or eager to go abroad. The concept is not new; the “Back to Africa” movement emerged in the 19th century. While the phrase “go back to Africa” has been used derogatorily, Black-owned companies like Black & Abroad have sought to reclaim it, and in 2019, Ghana led a campaign for the “Year of Return” to encourage descendants of those forcibly removed from the continent to return.

Butre - a village in the Ahanta West district in the Western Region of Ghana. — Butre – a village in the Ahanta district in western Ghana.

“Many Black people feel as though America is not made for us. We feel discriminated against in so many ways. And it’s not just the physical abuse necessarily… It’s the mental turmoil of having to prove yourself and overcome stereotypes about intelligence and ability to get the job done,” said Olumide Gbenro, a Nigerian man raised in America.

Safer Abroad?

Gabby Beckford, a full-time Black and multicultural travel entrepreneur and content creator — and founding member of the Black Travel Alliance — says she’s seen increased interest in traveling and moving abroad from Black Americans.

“For those abroad right now, they’re happy they’re not in the U.S. right now. There’s been a huge push for Black Americans to move, especially to Africa where we have roots. America is not as it used to be and there are other countries with other opportunities. Those abroad seem happy their country is containing coronavirus better, especially because Black people have been affected disproportionately,” says Beckford.

Several of the Black nomads and travelers we spoke to said they felt safer, experienced less racism, or felt less threatened by racism abroad than in the United States.

“While I am at home I feel like I constantly have to police myself in order to not be the topic of discussion in a white setting. It goes from what I am wearing to what I say and how I speak. My tone, my hair, my attitude. While I am abroad and in the countries that I’ve been to, the very things that made me super self-conscious are the things that are praised here. I’ve been told that I am beautiful and that my hair and skin is beautiful. I get stares abroad as well as I do back at home, however, I feel like the staring is out of curiosity rather than ignorance,” says Latrice Coates, a digital nomad currently in Thailand.

A temple in the Chiang Mai province in Thailand. — A temple in the Chiang Mai province of Thailand.

Both Coates and Ellis said they hadn’t personally experienced any direct racism abroad. “I do know that it exists,” said Coates, “however, I also believe that my blue passport grants me more grace than anything. Once people know that I am an American the vibe typically switches — a different tone of voice and more willingness to help out.”

Ellis acknowledges that there are many types of racism around the world, such as Asians thinking white skin is more attractive. “But in terms of systemic racism, I’ve never felt that anywhere except America.” Growing up in the U.S., Ellis was called the N-word, told to break up with certain girlfriends because he is Black, pulled over for no reason, and surrounded by cops because he “fit the description,” to name just a few examples. A few years ago, a friend begged and pleaded with him to leave America. “I don’t know what I would do if you were killed just for being you,” she told him.

“I am always conscious of where I go as a Black American,” says Coates. “I am always aware of the spaces that I enter, what I say, where I work, whom I talk to, what hours of the night I stop for gas, how I speak to the police… It is second nature to always look into where I am headed to next… It’s embedded in myself and my brothers and sisters to always seek these things while moving abroad and domestically.”

“Abroad, any racism I’ve faced has come from fear of the unknown. They have little information and it’s inaccurate; they’re generalizing because they don’t know. I have definitely faced more racism in the U.S. Outside the U.S. it’s not as expected or accepted,” says Beckford.

“…While I am abroad and in the countries that I’ve been to, the very things that made me super self-conscious are the things that are praised here…”
Latrice Coates

For Gbenro, the month he arrived in Bali, a white foreigner aggressively called him the N-word. He says the racism he’s experienced abroad has been worse than the more subtle variety he experienced in the U.S.: for example, being followed around department stores and jokes about interracial dating.

Gbenro says the nomad community has a responsibility to speak out against discrimination. Just being a nomad doesn’t mean someone is not racist. “I think there’s a danger in thinking because you’ve traveled to 60 countries you get a pass. I believe travel is the ultimate equalizer because you really see the human condition and how it surpasses what you look like and what skin color you have. I urge the remote entrepreneurs who have the influence and impact to use their voice to shine light on this. Even if it’s not affecting you directly we need your voice.”

Representation in the Travel Industry

“It feels like something supernatural is happening and we’re being forced to reckon with the decisions we’ve made as a society,” says Beckford, speaking about both the coronavirus pandemic and the movement for racial justice. “We are reckoning with ourselves as an individualistic and selfish society. That same selfishness and individualism is what lets racism be perpetuated. That’s why there’s a Black travel movement/exodus.”

Gbenro organized a Digital Nomad Summit with several hundred attendees that was held the first week of June — just after Floyd’s murder. After his death, Gbenro thought, “‘Not again’ — they keep killing us like animals on television screens. I felt disrespected by the nation that I spent much of my life in. But after I calmed down emotionally I also realized the tremendous responsibility I had as a successful Black entrepreneur to still execute the task at hand. I’m sure a few people wondered why I didn’t bring [Floyd’s death] up, but I saw it as a chance to use my success and influence to contribute to inspiring people that look like me.”

Coates helps businesses grow their brands, and says that since Floyd’s murder, several white-owned brands have reached out to her on Instagram for collaborations to diversify their feed. She turned most of them down, because they didn’t seem genuine and weren’t even offering her payment. She did accept an opportunity to do an Instagram takeover — where she could control the narrative.

For Beckford, a big reason she co-founded the Black Travel Alliance was to advocate for representation and share the narratives of Black travelers. Beckford often gets questions about why representation in travel — a leisure activity — matters. “It affects systemic racism and mindset in the travel industry and beyond,” she says. “It’s really important to see Black people not just in the context of war, poverty, and civil rights actions. We enjoy and deserve luxury. Seeing Black people as humans is just as important as seeing Black people in trauma porn. Black people deserve to relax and enjoy our lives.”

We couldn’t agree more. Follow Beckford, Gbenro, Coates, and here are 20 more Black travel influencers from Essence.

Black Lives Matter Culture and Heritage North America Uncategorized

Discover Black History and Culture While Traveling the USA

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date July 13, 2020
No Comments on Discover Black History and Culture While Traveling the USA

Four in Greensboro NC. Photo courtesy of Civil Rights Trail

As a Southern-born white woman, incorporating Black history sites into my travel plans never crossed my mind… until I married a Black man. A road trip through Virginia led us to The Freedom House Museum in Alexandria. Once part of the largest domestic slave trading firm Franklin and Armfield, the building now exhibits powerful first-person accounts of enslaved people. Viewing the exhibits in silence, I turned to my husband and saw sadness in his eyes. It was then that I realized, for me, this was a museum filled with accounts of tragic history. For him, it was personal.

Continued Education Advocates Change

During this time of turmoil in the United States—and, hopefully, permanent change—educating ourselves has never been more important. Yes, we learned about history in school, but guess what? There’s more to the story. Admittedly, I’ll never know how it feels to grow up Black in this country, but I can educate myself beyond the classroom.

Increased sensitivity and compassion emerge when we strive to understand each other. Travel provides that opportunity. If you typically travel with children, this assumes even more importance. By introducing them to other cultures during their formative years, we have the opportunity to positively guide the future of the next generation.

“Well, I don’t know what will happen now. We’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn’t matter with me now because I’ve been to the mountaintop…”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

While I love traveling to foreign destinations and experiencing new cultures, the truth is, I can do that right here at home. With 50 states and five territories, the USA has a wealth of cultural experiences to aid in promoting understanding across cultural lines. Here are some unique places and experiences to consider.

Whitney Plantation, Louisiana

As a human being, can you imagine your worth being tied only to such factors as age, gender, health, personal behavior, and skills? This was the plight of enslaved people brought to America against their will. Of course, that “worth” never benefited the enslaved with a paycheck, but rather the slave traders and owners who built their wealth on the backs of captive laborers.

Whitney Slave Quarter Photo courtesy of The Whitney Plantation — Whitney Slave Quarter. Photo courtesy of The Whitney Plantation

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, the Whitney Plantation tells the story of its days as an antebellum sugarcane, rice, and indigo plantation through the eyes of those who saw it with brutal honesty—the enslaved. Over the years, Whitney Plantation was home to 350 slaves, and today it exists to educate the public about this dark chapter in American history. Lanyards carrying a card with the story of an enslaved man, woman, or child hang around the neck of each visitor, providing a connection to the story of one person who lived this nightmare. Unlike typical tours where the grand décor of the plantation home takes the spotlight, the Whitney Plantation tours start where the story begins—in the slave cabins.

National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, TN

“Well, I don’t know what will happen now. We’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn’t matter with me now because I’ve been to the mountaintop…” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

These words delivered by Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis from the pulpit of the Mason Temple Church of God in Christ would become part of his final public speech. Hours later, he was fatally shot at the Lorraine Motel. A stop along the Civil Rights Trail, the motel now serves as the National Museum of Civil Rights. Housing 260 artifacts along with 40 interactive stations with films and accounts of oral histories, the museum’s exhibits cover a span of five centuries including slavery, student sit-ins, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Freedom Rides, and Black Power.

Lorraine Motel Memphis. Photo courtesy of Civil Rights Trail

International Civil Rights Museum, Greensboro, North Carolina

When four Black students from the Agricultural & Technical College of North Carolina (now known as North Carolina A&T State University) stepped into the local Woolworth’s in Greensboro, North Carolina, change began. It was February 1, 1960, when the young men took a seat at the whites-only lunch counter. Despite being refused service, they stayed until closing. And they came back the next day… and the next… and the next until the sit-in drew more than 300 students. Their action galvanized a movement as other sit-ins spread across the country in solidarity.

Today, the original Woolworth’s building houses the International Civil Rights Center and Museum. The historic lunch counter and seats remain intact alongside extensive exhibits that delve into the struggles and successes of the civil rights movement and the Jim Crow era.

In an oral history account by Robert Tyrone Patterson, Sr. who joined his four friends at Woolworth’s on day two of the sit-in, he shares his experience as well as some of his fears. One concern was his parents. What would they think of his involvement? When he sat down to speak with them, his father said, “Son, if my generation had done what they should have done, you wouldn’t have to be doing this.”

Woolworth Counter Sit in Greensboro NC. Photo Courtesy of Civil Rights Trail

Motown Museum, Detroit, Michigan

History brings us far more than tragic stories fueled by racism, hatred, and greed. It sometimes brings us music and in the case of Motown, it brings us together. The words of Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown tell the story: “Motown was about music for all people – white and Black, blue and green, cops and the robbers. I was reluctant to have our music alienate anyone.”

After receiving the paltry sum of $3.59 as a royalty check for his songs, Gordy’s friend, Smokey Robinson, suggested he might as well go into business for himself. Gordy took his suggestion, borrowed $800, and founded Motown Records Company in 1959—the first African American-owned records company in the country. Soon afterward hits like Please Mr. Postman and Money (That’s What I Want) rose to the top of the charts. Legendary artists including Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, the Supremes, Martha & The Vandellas, the Jackson 5 and Smokey Robinson all worked under the Motown label.

Motown began in Gordy’s small Detroit home, which now serves as the Motown museum, Hitsville. Guided tours share the story of the growth of an empire amid a racially charged environment where top performers were required to enter hotels through the back door. The tours also allow us to celebrate the music of Motown as we attempt to sing along to the famous tunes. If you’re lucky—like we were—you might run into Martha Wells of Martha & The Vandellas. She often stops in to join the tours and when that happens, Dancing in the Street takes on an entirely new level of excitement.

Martha Wells and Greg (author's husband) at Hitsville USA. Photo: Terri Marshall — Martha Wells and Greg (author’s husband) at Hitsville USA. Photo: Terri Marshall

It’s All About Exposure

As Mark Twain said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.”

With the Black Lives Matter movement at the forefront, delving into the history and celebrating the cultural contributions of our fellow citizens has never been more important. So, while you’re road tripping around the country this year, consider incorporating some of these or other educational experiences into your itinerary… and bring the kids.

Cover photo: Four in Greensboro, North Carolina NC. Photo courtesy of Civil Rights Trail

Culinary Travel Historical Travel Hotels and Accomodations Music North America Uncategorized

Have a high time in Albuquerque

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date February 19, 2020
2 Comments on Have a high time in Albuquerque

A major highlight in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a hot air balloon ride at daybreak.

But floating through the sky into the sunrise is not all there is to do in Albuquerque, and this city is full of culture and education to provide a well-rounded and enriching experience. Before you fly Albuquerque’s friendly skies, tour the Balloon Museum and learn about balloon flights as they have evolved from 1783 to the ones you will take today.

Here are some other recommended attractions when exploring the gem that is Albuquerque.

Old Town

Visit Old Town, where you step back to the original Spanish Colonial Albuquerque of 1706. San Felipe de Neri Church, circa 1793, stands in the background. There may be Native Americans performing traditional dances around the plaza gazebo. Often indigenous artisans sit along the side and sell handmade jewelry and other crafts. Colorful shops, galleries, and restaurants line the streets where antique cars are parked. Courtyards offer glimpses of silversmiths and other craft shops. Expect to meet a few friendly resident cats guarding their shops.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

You can step farther back in history at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Indians from nearby pueblos perform traditional dances and tell stories passed through generations.

In the museum, the exhibits tell stories of New Mexico’s Native Americans from the earliest pictograms to notable modern-day tribal members.

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Sciences

Want to see prehistoric New Mexico? You can at New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Sciences where you’re greeted out front by Alberta and Spike, their resident dinosaurs. No, they are not real but they are impressive sculptures. The museum tells New Mexico’s story in varied ways, from the first multi-cellular life to the space age. One impressive exhibit deals with climate change — how it’s happening and its results.

Turquoise Museum

If you’re looking to hunt for treasure, visit the Turquoise Museum, which delivers treasure on several levels. Jacob Lowry, museum director and fifth generation of the family business, is a wealth of knowledge about the turquoise gem. The building itself is also a treasure. It looks like a historic German castle but in reality, it was built in 2008 by Gertrude Zachary, a wealthy jeweler, who lived there until her death in 2013.

The museum’s treasure trove consists of some of the rarest and most expensive turquoise stones in the world. The museum is an educational gem also, as you can learn the history of turquoise, how to tell real from fake stones, and the art of cutting turquoise.

Albuquerque Museum of Art and History

The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History offers a mix of the story of Albuquerque as well as painting and sculptures. Naturally, it has traditional art, but there’s so much more than that. From the culture of the Tiwa people who once occupied what is now Albuquerque to the city’s contribution to the atomic age, you will find it all here.

An image of the art exhibition at the Albuquerque Museum. Photo courtesy of the City of Albuquerque (CC 2.0)

National Museum of Nuclear Science and History

When you enter, you’re greeted by “Pioneers of the Atom”: an exhibit showcasing the individuals who influenced the nuclear world. The museum traces the nuclear history from the first splitting of an atom to today’s uses of nuclear power. There’s a replica of operations at Las Alamos and a model of “Fat Man,” the bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan.

There’s a children’s section that encourages learning while having fun. Outside, there’s an array of bombs and the planes that dropped them.

BioPark

The BioPark is really three attractions in one: an aquarium, botanical garden, and zoo. The animals that live there range from Mexican gray wolves to Polar bear twin brothers, Kiska and Koluk.

The aquarium offers a look at water-loving species like otters and all types of fish. One of my favorites is the Atlantic Coral Reef Exhibit — such a variety of sea life. The aquarium has a strong emphasis on conservation.

Since I visited in winter, the outdoor plants weren’t at their peak but inside the conservatory, there was a riot of color. Red and orange bromeliads and deep purple orchids bloomed next to interesting cacti with tiny red and yellow blooms.

Pink Flamingos at the Albuquerque Zoo within the BioPark.

Wining, dining, and lodging

If all the sightseeing has made you hungry, you’ve lots of choices. Want down-to-earth cuisine? You can’t beat The Grove, which is committed to supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture. For breakfast or brunch, try the French-style pancakes topped with fresh fruit; for lunch, the Farmers Salad, made with greens, sausage, and goat cheese.

Looking for something unique? El Pinto Restaurant and New Mexican Salsa Company combine a huge dining facility with a packing plant for two of New Mexico’s favorite products: salsa and green chili. El Pinto Restaurant was founded in 1962. Its second-generation owners, twins Jim and John Thomas, have grown it into the largest restaurant in New Mexico. It’s a luscious maze with many rooms and a patio for dining.

Their ribs are named some of the best in New Mexico by the Food Channel. You have to try one of their tequila specials — they are fantastic. This place is very animal-friendly. You may meet one of their resident cats and hear the chickens in the background. They are the only Animal Welfare Approved restaurant in the country with a laying hen program on restaurant property.

Los Poblanos Ranch combines an organic vegetable and lavender farm with a restaurant and inn. The restaurant, CAMPO, has an open kitchen with a flaming grill where you can see your food prepared. The bread and pastries are melt-in-your-mouth-delicious. My suggestion for breakfast is the Farm Breakfast consisting of two eggs, house-made sourdough toast, cracked potatoes with local-grown herbs, and choice of meat.

Wander around the grounds and meet their cats and peacocks. The inn is worth booking a stay. The rooms all have views of lavender fields, gardens, farmland, or the Sandia Mountains. They offer walking farm tours during the warmer months.

If you’re craving a great glass of wine try Casa Rondena, Sheehan Winery, or Lescombes Winery and Bistro. All have their own unique wines and story. Casa Rondena is very upscale; Sheehan is a family-operated up-and-coming winery.

Only Lescombes offers dining options. Jalapeño-Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a must-try appetizer. For an entrée, there are many great choices. The chicken is fantastic, but so is the pasta, beef, or pork. Each entrée is paired with a wine.

Another upscale choice is LVL5 at Hotel Chaco. You’re on the fifth-floor rooftop with surrounding windows offering a terrific view of the mountains. My choices: Artisanal Charcuterie & Cheese for an appetizer, Watermelon-Guava BBQ Glazed Chicken Breast with acorn squash, vegetable slaw, and tempura grapes for the entrée. Sunset here is perfection, as is the hotel. Once you step inside, you feel like you are in a modern version of Chaco Canyon. Hotel Chaco is filled with contemporary Native American New Mexican art. Rooms are spacious and comfortable.

All in all, Albuquerque is a destination of the high life.

North America Uncategorized

One Night in Jail: A Travel Horror Story

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date September 7, 2019
No Comments on One Night in Jail: A Travel Horror Story

Imagine this: it’s your average Tuesday morning; the soft ping of your alarm has just woken you up from a blissful sleep. You yawn and as per usual, immediately turn to check your phone.

Suddenly, below several work emails and app notifications, a Whatsapp message from your mother catches your eye:

“Well… I just had the longest shower…ate breakfast and drinking 3 cups of coffee… I just spent my first night ‘ever’ in jail.

Yes, jail.

Story will come after I leave the country.

Still feels surreal. I’m ok…gonna go sleep now.”

Let me tell you. For someone who needs at least an hour of quiet time and a strong cup of coffee to feel human in the morning, on that particular day, I was immediately wide awake.

Allow me to give you some back story: my mom has long been an avid traveler. Growing up, both my parents prioritized travel and made it a point to regularly widen the horizons of my sister and myself with trips big and small. I whole-heartedly owe my sense of adventure to my parents who, from a young age, encouraged me to explore what the world had to offer. That wanderlust has taken the front seat in my mom’s life too, and she continues to confidently explore the world either with friends or solo.

Thus, when my mom announced she would be traveling to Mexico solo for two weeks that summer, I honestly thought little of it. Having visited the country several times already, (many of them solo), I was confident my mom would be safe, street-savvy, and have an incredible time. The fact that she also knew jiu-jitsu definitely helped, too. What could possibly go wrong?

With a million questions running through my mind, I let my mom sleep off what I could only imagine was one of the scariest nights of her life. I imagined my poor mother, lying terrified in a jail cell the night before as I slept blissfully unaware, thousands of miles away.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, my phone rang and I let out a sigh of relief. It was time for some answers.

¿Cómo Se Dice “not guilty”?

This story starts in San Miguel de Allende, a colonial-era city located 170 miles from Mexico City. Known for its Spanish architecture, thriving arts scene, and cultural festivals, the town is also a proclaimed World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

As one of these tourists, my mother set out to explore the vibrant little town immediately after checking into her Airbnb that morning. Hours later, as the sunset on her first day in San Miguel, my mom found herself walking through the town square to get back to her Airbnb for some much-needed rest.

Moments later, as she neared the street of her Airbnb, a cop car hurled around the corner, coming to a screeching halt just steps in front of my mom. Before she knew what was happening, she was handcuffed, pushed into a cop car, and hauled off to an unknown destination.

Terrified, confused, and angry, she struggled to ask in broken Spanish what was happening, what she had done, and where she was being taken. She persisted again in English but was met only with blank stares and hostility as she sat vulnerable in the back seat.

After an hour or so on the road, the car pulled into what appeared to be the police station. From there, she was told to undress, put on a uniform, and declare each item on her person.

“I’m honestly pissed they made me cut off my ankle bracelet,” she later told me. “I had just bought it in Hawaii!”

Leave it to my mom to worry about accessories when facing jail time.

Hours rolled by as questions remained unanswered. Getting answers from passing guards proved to be hopeless, so she kept herself busy doing yoga, counting ceiling tiles, and glaring at passersby from her cell. Anything to keep her mind occupied as she tried not to fall asleep, fearful of her personal safety should she drift off.

To this day, my mother is still in jail. We went down to Mexico as a family to visit her last week.

Totally kidding. This story has a happy ending, and thankfully, my mother was released from jail nine (very long) hours later. With an explanation about her arrest that involved ‘sexo in the park’, (what?!) she was told to pay 600 Mexican pesos (approx. USD 30) if she wanted to be released. Yes, you read that right. My mother was extorted for the price of Sunday morning brunch. For having sex in the park??

Traumatized and exhausted, but elated to be free, she walked out into the morning sunshine to call an Uber and get the hell out of there.

“Yes, I have a story. Sure, it’s funny now,” my mom later wrote on Facebook. “But will I ever go back to Mexico? Probably not.”

Police Corruption a Global Issue

Waking up to a text that your loved one is in jail is not a situation I would wish on anyone. Unfortunately, however, police corruption involving tourists is surprisingly common not just in Mexico, but in many popular tourist destinations around the globe.

In Bangkok, senior police and embassy officials are investigating claims that police checkpoints in heavily touristed areas have been systematically abused to extort money from foreigners.

Officers who routinely spend the night administering alcohol tests, drug tests and passport checks in the bustling Thai hotspot are often met with claims of extortion, threats, and harassment that have tourists and expats alike fearing for their safety.

The married couple was traveling near Belén in the northwest region of the country when they were stopped at a police checkpoint and fined $600 for failing to carry their passports on them. This is not at all illegal, according to the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ), a specialized national police agency that is similar to the FBI.

Staying Safe on Vacation

The reality is, extortion of visitors happens way more often than is reported. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 6.5 million extortion cases went unreported in Mexico in 2017. Often, victims fail to report crimes because they considered it a waste of time, or due to a lack of trust in authority.

From planting false evidence to shakedowns and extortion, police corruption in the country remains one of the most significant challenges facing Mexican law enforcement agencies. Corruption among local police exists as a means to either boost one’s standing in the local community or to supplement the extremely low income that most of the Mexican population receives. It is a systemic issue and one that has roots in colonial times.

Okay, so we know that tourist-related police corruption is widespread in hotspots across the globe. But does that mean we should heed every warning and stay put where we know it’s safe? I think not.

Instead, consider the following tips from Overseas Citizen Services to stay safe when dealing with police corruption while traveling.

As a tourist, avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you.
If you’re wrongly accused of an offense and in doubt, ask to see the written law violation at the police station. This is said to discourage a phony citation.
Try to get the name, badge number, and specifics about the officer you’re dealing with.
Contact your embassy and file a report.

All in all, tourist-targeted police corruption is a common issue around the world. Those who have lived the experience first-hand will vow never to return to said countries — and rightfully so. (Hi, Mom!)

But for those of us who still yearn for the warm sands of Mexico’s beaches? All we can do is stay informed, be aware, and do our best to keep out of jail.

Tags Mexico travel

Archaelogogical Tourism Culture and Heritage North America Uncategorized

Discover the Authentic Heritage of Taos Pueblo

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date July 19, 2018
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Visiting the United States, most people focus on travel to the east or west coast or to popular natural resources like famous national parks. They overlook the lesser known cities that offer a real Americana experience with indigenous heritage and cultural immersion opportunities–places like Taos Pueblo.

Church ruins and cemetery. Photo: Larry Lamsa

Deep in America’s wilderness, along a small tributary of the Rio Grande River, there is a place where a small village still represents an entire culture, known as the Pueblo Indians that used to occupy a grand portion of northern Mexico and southwestern United States. These Pueblo Indians were spread across large areas in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado. The Taos Pueblo is the most authentic settlement that still stands today and dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and an amazing travel destination. While the old village might not seem as much on first glance, with many adobe houses, set on two clusters and with several ceremonial buildings, it represents a rich part of the Indian heritage of North America. The Taos Pueblo is one of the most remarkable examples of the architecture from the Pre-Hispanic period of the American continent, deriving from the ancient traditions of the Anasazi Indian tribes. The present day village retains its authentic look from several centuries ago and even the ruins of the church and monastery of the missionaries remain.

The Pueblo Indians resisted most external influences, remaining deeply rooted in their ancestral customs, so this particular village is extremely interesting, presenting the main characteristics of the architecture and social life of this group. Considered to be the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States, the Taos Pueblo remains inhabitied as it has for thousands of years and is located inside a reservation and at the center of a bigger area containing other pueblos. The most interesting feature of the village is the traditional adobe type of construction, with houses being crammed together and built on top of others, with thinner walls. The access is made through stairs or ladders and it makes for an amazing view. Deeply linked to their community, the Pueblo people are very attached to their villages, families and beliefs. The Taos Pueblo is truly the most representative of their settlements, but it also makes for one of the most picturesque villages one could encounter during a visit to the United States.

Tags New Mexico, UNESCO Heritage

Adventure and Outdoor Travel Beach and Water Sports North America Uncategorized

Seeing the Grand Canyon from different angles

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 18, 2017
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The Grand Canyon National Park is a location that just the name alone sends feelings of awe through any traveler.

It is one of the premiere visited tourist destinations within the United States and with good reason. It’s immense size has left many in awe of this world wonder, with rock formations of all kinds and designs, that no one person could possibly see them all in even a hundred visits.

You can choose to come in from the South or North Rim. If your choice is the South, Grand Canyon Village is your best bet for lodging and is open all year round. Twenty-four miles east of Grand Canyon Village is the South Rim Desert View, which is also open all year. Note though that there is no lodging there, but you can use the campground, though it does not have hook-ups. The North Rim is open for a short season—May 15 – October 15, and you can also lodge at Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Canyon, which is open year-round.

Don’t worry about shopping for food, or souvenirs either, as you can get all these things inside and outside the South and North Rim parks, and at Phantom Ranch.

You might choose to camp out instead, and there are various options for those who do. However, with all the beauty of the world literally right in front of you, you must be wondering what activities you can get up to while at the Canyon.

Of course hiking is a popular way to not only reach the Canyon, but explore. However, for those who want to up their adventure ante, how about spending some time on the Colorado River, white water rafting as you do? Be sure you know which rapids you’re taking on though, as with over 150 named rapids within the Canyon—some rated as class IV or V, you have to be sure that you are aware of your skill level and don’t take on a class that’s above your experience. Consider hiring an experienced guide from one of the sixteen river rafting companies offering various rafting ‘packages’ for your convenience.

Whatever your choice, this is an adventure that everyone should experience. The wildlife, communing with nature, seeing one of the great wonders of the world up-close…hook, line, and sinker for why you should add The Grand Canyon to your travel bucket list!

Tags Grand Canyon, White Water Rafting

North America Uncategorized

Washington, DC: Beyond the National Mall

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date December 18, 2016
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While most travelers exploring the capital of the United States of America stick to the usual popular attractions and landmarks, the city harbors many other less known gems and treasures, extremely enticing or interesting for those who venture farther from the National Mall. While not as fascinating or imposing as the stretch of land that glitters in white marble and groves of knowledge, with the US Capitol, White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument or the Smithsonian Museums, these other highlights beyond the Mall are equally amazing and worth exploring.

Gate to Washington, DC Chinatown (Gallery Place metro).

Chinatown – For a distinct atmosphere of Washington DC, although a lot dimmer than it used to be, travelers should also walk through Chinatown, once housing a great Asian community. The Friendship Arch right at the entrance is the largest in the world.
Roosevelt Island – A charming natural island on the Potomac River, where tourists rarely end up, the Roosevelt Memorial is the main feature, with fountains and obelisks dedicated to the president. One can see great views of the buildings on the banks.
National Zoo – A great attraction for families, the National Zoo is packed with exotic animals and beyond, making it a perfect getaway from the city. It holds over 2,000 animals from about 400 species, including pandas, tigers, elephants and so on.
Arlington National Cemetery – Although renowned in the entire country and in the world as the resting place for hundreds of thousands of American soldiers beginning to the Revolution, Arlington is also a deeply emotional travel experience, with organized tours and an insightful introduction into the US history.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – The largest catholic church in the whole of North America, this basilica is truly imposing and has some interesting architectural highlights, including the cupola, the mosaics or the chapels.
Franciscan Monastery – Also known as Mount St. Sepulcher, the grounds of this landmark contain beautiful gardens and interesting replicas of some famous holy sites of the world.
Fountains on the Georgetown Harbor. Photo: Geoff Livingston

Georgetown Waterfront Park – An extremely pleasant park right by the river, especially popular for couples and families. If travelers wish to get out of the sun and have a few relaxing hours cruising the shaded lanes or admiring the boats on the Potomac, this is the perfect place.
National Geographic Society Museum – While not as rich or of large as the Smithsonian, this museum is definitely an interesting destination, with frequent exhibitions that show the cultural and natural diversity of the entire world.

Tags National Mall, National Zoo, Rossevelt Island, Washington DC

Historical Travel North America Uncategorized

Cuttyhunk: History and small-town tranquility near Cape Cod

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date September 25, 2016
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For a great summer vacation in a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere, look no further than Cuttyhunk.

A mere two hours from Boston, Cuttyhunk island is one of Cape Cod’s Elizabeth Islands, and the one out of the sixteen that is not owned by the Forbes family.

Just off the coast of Massachusetts, visitors flock to the Cape yearly and remote locations like Cuttyhunk are perfect for the traveler that wants to get away from it all. Getting there isn’t a hassle either, as all that’s required is a $25 USD ferry ride to the Elizabeth Islands, and you can opt for a water taxi for around the same price to get to Cuttyhunk.

While on Cuttyhunk, a Yankee version of Mayberry comes to mind. There are approximately 52 full-time residents in the area and 130 houses in town, municipal buildings including a historical society and museum, a one-room schoolhouse, Union Methodist Church, library, and town hall. Playing up on this aesthetic is the fact that gardens seem straight out of a storybook, as pink and cornflower blue hydrangeas abound.

The explorer in you will love the island’s historic side as there are abandoned bunkers from the Second World War, where military denizens searched for Nazi submarines off the coast.

You might be saying, that’s all well and good, a lovely small town setting right on the banks of the Atlantic, “but where will I stay?” That’s as easy as getting a reasonably priced fresh lobster meal on the island.

The Fishing Club has eight guest rooms with white clapboard exterior and weather-beaten shutters that add to the overall authentic feel of the place, and an Avalon mansion in town has rooms for rent as well. With limited lodging available, many of the 300 to 500 visitors to the island in summer alone, stay in their boats when it’s time to rest. If you choose club for lodging, you’ll be pleased to meet innkeeper Bonnie, who’s as handy as she is friendly. On the walls is an ode to the presidents like William Howard Taft, Grover Cleveland, and Teddy Roosevelt, as well as tycoons like JD Gould, who financed the original Cuttyhunk lodge.

Lobster dinner on Cuttyhunk — Photo: Sailn1

Enjoy your travels to Cuttyhunk, wake up to fresh sea air, sit down to a hearty breakfast at the club, take in the island’s rustic seaside charm, and catch a lobster or two for dinner. Whatever you choose, this is a laidback kind of vacation that you won’t soon forget.

Tags Cape Cod, Cuttyhunk, Elizabeth Islands

North America Uncategorized

America under the radar

The USA is a pretty big place, and when it comes to tourism and vacations, it can be difficult to determine where exactly you can go to best take advantage of all that the nation has to offer. The USA can be an intriguing place if you know where to look, and in most cases the best and most charming places to visit as a foreigner are not always the most egregious. Sometimes to find America’s true charm, one needs to look a little closer, beyond the lights and the glamour to locate those attractions that are sometimes overlooked by travelers.

U.S. Virgin Islands: Few can deny the attraction that are the virgin islands, each of which has proven its self-distinct from the other in geography and identity, such as the luxuriantly endowed national park punctuated by tents and cabins as well as isolated beaches that is St. John, the eco-friendly budget acceptable establishments at Maho Bay camps; along with the various inns, the virgin islands offer beautiful sandy beaches with clear weather without crippling your wallet.

Hawknest Bay on St. John’s in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Photo: Reinhard Link

Hudson River Valley, New York: Hudson river valley is a must stop for any visitors new to New York, providing a sometimes much needed break from the city with its wineries and exquisite eateries stocked with ingredients fresh from the farm, while providing a diverse choice of menus.

Bear Mountain, NY in the Hudson River Valley. Photo: Daniel Mennerich

Four Corners: This geological wonder, in the south west, one of the most popular of the states of Colorado, new Mexico, Utah and Arizona, states that share a border, is an archeologically endowed hotspot, offering sights the likes of Monument valley and related towers, the occasional Hollywood star and national parks, all wrapped up in a small one hundred mile package.

Yellowstone National Park: Over one hundred forty years ago, Yellowstone opened as the first nation park in the world, and currently attracts over four million visitors annually. And while these number wane in the winter, the sights aren’t any less breath taking, with the frozen water falls, invigorated geysers and a whole load of snowy fun.

Gold Country, California: Talk about great mountains in the US and names such as Yosemite pop up, rarely taking into account gold country only a small distance from San Francisco. Though that might be the advantage, it is a less crowded attraction. Gold country is an ambient picture of history, with scatterings of charming little towns planted throughout the region, caves and wineries of a quality that has been known to compete with the likes of Napa, winter attractions such as snow parks and bear valley, providing abundant entertainment for kids whilst making available a series of extreme snow sports and activities for those more adventurous spirits.

Hawaii: This large island is a hub of culture, rich cuisine and lush landscapes. Many a tourist has attested to the magical nature of Hawaii, with its hike friendly caves, waterfalls, breathtaking beaches and assortment of water sports.

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Music North America Uncategorized

Kansas City – More than just a Sleepy Mid-Western City

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 17, 2015
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Kansas City, founded in 1838 (the Missouri side), is a city that has a full and rich history for being in the mellow Mid-West region of the United States. On a walk through the city you will hear stories about trappers, Indian tribes, Civil War, Mobsters, Jazz, and so much more. So, let’s begin a virtual walk down the history of the Kansas City Metropolitan area. On the way, you will even discover some must-see places in this vibrant city.

The Frenchmen Connection

Sacajawea, Lewis and Clark statue. Photo: Nathan Borror

The first person to explore the area was a Frenchman on the run from authorities in the early 1700’s. His name was Étienne de Veniard, Sieur de Bourgmont and his wife was Native American. Bourgmont fled to the area that will become Kansas City after abandoning his command post at Fort Detroit following an Indian attack. He documented his travels on the Missouri and Platte rivers in North America and made the first European maps of these areas.

Perhaps not French, but explorers nonetheless, Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition had a hand in the settling of the future Kansas City after they stayed three days in the area. They reported how perfect it would be for a fort. Word got back to the U.S. government and soon the area’s first official settlement was established in 1808 – Fort Osage. The Fort was used to protect the US claim of the Louisiana purchase against the French and Spanish. It also served as a trading post with the Osage Tribe. Parts of the Fort still stands and is available to view.

Mormons, City Incorporated, Civil War, and Jessie James – Oh My!

The Kansas City area had an explosion of events from the 1800’s to the early 1900’s. The city became official when it was incorporated in 1853. The founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, Joseph Smith III, established the Mormon headquarters within the recently established Metropolitan area of the city (Independence, MO). At the time, Missouri was considered a slave state, but never succeeded from the union. Kansas City was in constant turmoil during the civil war due to the mix of abolitionists and pro-slavery settlers from the south. It was also during this time that the famous outlaw Jesse James moved between several hideouts in the area. His robberies became so infamous that today there is a plaque on a bank marking the first daylight bank robbery led by Jesse James.

The Days of Prohibition, Mobsters, and Jazz

Jazz Trumpeter Stan Kessler. Photo: Ed Schipul

Although there was a national prohibition against liquor, Kansas City, MO never seemed to notice. Big city officials with their federal prosecutors on payroll saw that the bars and taverns stayed open with a constant flow of libations. This also meant that Kansas City was the perfect place for mob families to move their underground liquor shipments around. They were less likely to be noticed or stopped. Unfortunately, there was plenty of mob violence in the city as well. One particular bloody event was the Union Street Massacre where the infamous gangster Frank Nash and four FBI agents were killed in a gun battle. There is a guided tour where visitors can learn all about this event and see the place it happened – there are even still bullet holes in Union Station.

On the upside, Kansas City Jazz was born and rivaled that of the New Orleans style. This soulful music poured out of many hot sports throughout the city. Kansas City’s Jazz scene birthed the jam sessions of today where musicians gather after a gig and play freely together. They did so all over the city and one such place was the Mutual Musicians Foundation and is still open today to visitors. In all, Kansas City will capture your imagination with the many museums, tours, and hot spots – not to mention the bevvy of eateries and of course, the famous Kansas City Bar-B-Que joints. Many have come to the city as tourists, but returned as permanent residents. There is just something that draws you in and stays in your mind an in your heart.

Tags Kansas City, Missouri

California Sustainable Wines Culinary Travel North America Uncategorized

5 reasons to visit California’s wine country

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 3, 2015
1 Comment on 5 reasons to visit California’s wine country

Do you love wine and consider yourself to be a wine enthusiast? Then test your palate in California wine country. After all, the state is most known for its vast wineries and beautiful landscape. But if you need a bit of arm-twisting to inspire a visit to the Napa, Livermore and Sonoma valleys or beyond, here are five more reasons for you to visit the wine country.

1 – Unlimited Options

There is an abundance of vineyards in California–over 4,200 to be precise. Most of the wineries and vineyards are open to the public, often all year round. This means that you can have your pick of wine stops in any direction you choose to travel in California. As an extra bonus, Calfornia vineyards are at the forefront of incorporating sustainable winemaking practices. (Just make sure you taste and drive responsibly.)

2 – Winery Activities

Because there are so many vineyards to choose from there are also activities at most that you can enjoy. Activities vary per each vineyards but generally they can include festivals, wine tours, individual winery ground tours, wine tasting, wine educational classes and much more. Because there are so many offerings, it would be best to request a vacation guide or research the California wine country online before traveling.

3 – Easy to Plan

Whether you live on the other side of the coast or across the pond, it is fairly easy to plan a trip to California’s wine country. Some nearby hotels offer vacation packages that include wine tastings. The California Tourism Board and the California Wine Institute offer lots of travel planning resources and any travel agent can always help with booking your trip.

As for wine tours, these can be booked online or in person. Most are guided tours that run hourly and during the late morning to mid-afternoon.

4 – Other Fun Activities for You to Enjoy

After a couple of days of wine tastings, you may want to explore the other attractions that California has to offer. The coastline is one of the most beautiful and diverse in the world so a drive could take you to a beach, hiking trail, a boat ride for deep sea fishing or diving, shopping and much more. You could drive an hour in any direction and experience a different climate–dessert, mountain range or beach. If you want adventure, you’ll find it there. Art museums and fine dining? Look no further. Whatever your heart desires, California’s wine country can provide it.

5 – An Unforgettable Experience

Perhaps, the greatest reasons for a trip to California wine country are the memories you will create. California is a beautiful state and it provides the perfect backdrop to the vineyards. Plus the state offers some amazing attractions and activities so you can have your wine and enjoy everything else too.

Tags California Wines, Napa, wine country

Adventure and Outdoor Travel Beach and Water Sports Historical Travel North America Uncategorized

Exploring Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores from Cedar Point to beyond

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date July 6, 2014
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Cedar Point from Lake Erie. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

Mixing the exquisite location on the shores of Lake Erie–its pleasant beaches and unforgettable sunsets–with the thrill of exciting family oriented theme parks and a touch of fascinating American history, Sandusky, Ohio is one of the best places to visit in the United States. Established at the beginning of the 19th century, the small town of Sandusky had an important role in the history of the United States—a history that the area keeps alive. Today, Sandusky is considered one of the best places to visit and live in the country. Beyond the famous Cedar Point amusement park, Sandusky offers a rich history experience.

The city played a key role in protecting fugitive slaves traveling through the Underground Railroad when slaves traveled by ship and ferry across Lake Erie into Canada. Throughout Sandusky visitors can still experience a glimpse of that history. The historical downtown area also contains several interesting landmarks, including original buildings from the 19th century, made from locally produced limestone. Visitors can also pay a visit to the Aviation Museum and Maritime Museum that features

Master Commander Oliver Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial on Put-in-Bay. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

collections about the rich marine history behind Sandusky Bay. Sandusky also boasts the Merry-Go Round Museum which presents exhibits about the charming history of carousels.

Sandusky is best known for the famous Cedar Point Amusement Park, one of the biggest in the world and known as the “rollercoaster capital” (and a personal favorite of the World Footprints family). Cedar Point features some of the fastest, tallest and most innovative coasters in the world, but the park also has rides for everyone, even the kiddies. There are also other leisure theme and water parks in and around Sandusky, including African Safari Wildlife Safari, Ghostly Manor, Soak City Water Park and more.

World’s Longest Bar on Put-in-Bay. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

Apart from all these, travelers can also explore the nearby area of Sandusky, with a large range of possible activities, from boating and fishing on Lake Erie to visiting the nearby islands and see places like the Marblehead Lighthouse, the Civil War Cemetery, Kelleys Island or Put-In-Bay, the area’s party island that boasts the BEST lobster bisque in the world. (Really! People come from all over the world just for the lobster bisque.) we’ve ever had. For people that just need to relax, the nicest beaches on the Lake Erie shores are located in the Sandusky area and the sunset rivals what you’d see on the West Coast or elsewhere.

Tags Amusement Parks, Aviation Museum, Cedar Point, Civil War Sites, Lake Erie, Maritime Museum, Ohio, Put-in-Bay, rollercoasters, Sandusky

Destinations Europe North America Seasonal Travel Travel Tips Uncategorized

Top Ten Hottest Summer Party Spots in the Northern Hemisphere

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date June 23, 2014
No Comments on Top Ten Hottest Summer Party Spots in the Northern Hemisphere

Attention party animals. The summer is far from over but autumn is on our heels. So if you’re still looking looking to party like the summer will never return then take note of these top ten party spots that site north of the equator.

Ibiza, Spain – This place is known as the ‘party capital of the world’ and the world class DJs that play at some of the most knock-out clubs make it so. Revelers flock to Ibiza by the millions each year. The popular club scene complements an impressive collection of bars. Ibiza also host an annual live music event called Ibiza Rocks. This party spot should be enjoyed at least once in your lifetime.

Tags Party Spots, Summer

North America Uncategorized

Sevierville, Tennessee – There’s more to see than Dollywood

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 10, 2014
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When most Americans think of Sevierville, Tennessee, the image that comes to mind is of its decidedly unmanly most famous native, Dolly Parton. And though the philanthropic Parton has done a ‘world of good for the region (which includes tourist havens Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge), there are also attractions for the boys, Women readers need not turn away- if adventure and the outdoors are your thing, you’ve come to the right place. Lodging options range from a friendly Hampton Inn, to Wilderness at the Smokies with its indoor and outdoor waterparks, to the well appointed and spacious family rentals of Oak Haven Resort & Spa, which are very reasonable, especially for two-to-three family shares. Once settled in, get the activity started by taking in a Tennessee Smokies baseball game at Smokies Stadium. Big leaguers Shawn Green, Dan Uggla, Yadier Molina and Roy Halladay played here (against the likes of Birmingham’s Michael Jordan- yes, that one). You’ll love the atmosphere at the Chicago Cubs’ AA affiliate, and the ballpark is convenient to several hotels.

Okay, now it’s time to actually participate. No better place than Climbworks, where new courses and a genial staff welcome zipliners and mountain bikers. Climbworks is a day trip in itself, if one partakes of both activities. The company is designing an urban zipline experience in Nashville- stay tuned.

Crazy about golf? The Sevierville Golf Club is home to two 18-hole championship courses, The Highlands, a par 70, and The River, a par 72. Last year, legendary Lady Vols basketball coach hit a hole-in-one here, perhaps the greens will prove as inviting to you. No matter how you or your partners fare, you’ll enjoy a meal at Mulligan’s, where The Ultimate Dog (a Hebrew National frank), followed by an ice cream sandwich, are the way to go.

Even if your tee shots didn’t take flight as you would have liked, the Tennessee Museum of Aviation features an impressive array of flying warcraft, tributes to state figures distinguished in flight, and detailed signage and descriptions of well preserved fighters. Museums are in no short supply- Floyd Garrett’s Muscle Car Museum on Winfield Dunn Pkway., is home to a 1970 GTO Judge, 1960’s Corvettes, a ’57 T-Bird, and vintage service station replicas and garages. Smoky Mountain Knifeworks and the National Knife Museum, between them (same location, set aside hours to tour them), offer a look at world history through the prism of the knife as tool and weapon. 200,000 years worth. But there’s more. The Knifeworks store also sells ancient coins, prehistoric fossils, minerals, and gifts.

Walking through 200,000 years of culture will build an appetite, and when In The Volunteer State, eat like a Tennessean. Flapjacks on Dunn Pkwy. is a prime breakfast spot, and there’s a man-szed lunch to be had at gospel singer Tony Gore’s, also on Dunn. At Tony Gore’s, order corn nuggets and baked beans with your ribs, smoked sausage, or smoked pork. Season with their house sauces.

Another morning activity is ATV riding at Bluff Mountain Adventures on Walden’s Creek Road. You’ll bound up, then down, a challenging course en route to a crested view that on clear days, extends to the Kentucky border. Kids under 12 may ride in a Rhino with parents.

Speaking of great views, indulge in Scenic Helicopter Tours’ flight over the region, from which you’ll see The Smokies, Douglas Lake, and the TVA Dam. Rinse off in the waterparks at Wilderness, and it’s time to eat again. You’ll never forget the grub and music at Clint’s BBQ & Country Cookin’ on Newport Hwy. If you’re in luck, owner Clint Carnley, a warm host, will accompany the band. Music starts early here.

But you’re not finished. Remember Douglas Lake from your chopper ride? You can go bass fishing there any tranquil Tennessee morn. No license you say? Why, the local Bass Pro Shop can take care of that the night before, if need be.

There are many other ways to man up in these parts. Hike or bike the U.S.’ most visited national park (11 million per year), The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The locals like to get out of their cars at Cades Cove, or visit the home of the Walker Sisters, the last family grandfathered in to reside here. John D. Rockefeller chipped in $5 million to build the park, and scenes from the 1950’s Disney tv series “Davy Crockett” were filmed here. Nothing said “boy child” in the fifties like a coonskin cap. And nothing will put proverbial hair on your chest, like real “white lightning” from the Ole Smokey Distillery in nearby Gatlinburg. Grab a hearty lunch at Hard Rock Cafe in town before you sample moonshine in peach, apple pie, cherry, blackberry, or the twin terrors of “Original” and “White Lightning”. That’s provided there’s someone left to drive back to your hotel.

Don’t exit Sevierville for good without one final homage to the ’50’s, even if you were born in the ’80’s. The Diner on 550 Dunn Pkwy. is a throwback roadside style eatery that serves a Philly Style Cheese Steak, both buffalo and elk burgers, fried okra, buttermilk biscuits, cornbread, and plays jukebox favorites while you dine.

Talk about an active, yet belly busting getaway. Drive into Sevierville, or fly into nearby Knoxville (a college football haven with a 100,000+ seat stadium to prove it) and fulfill all those boyhood dreams-no matter who you bring with you.

Tags Sevierville, Tennessee

Consumer and Travel Industry News North America Travel Tips Uncategorized

10 Free Things to do in New Orleans

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 8, 2014
No Comments on 10 Free Things to do in New Orleans

Though one never needs an excuse to travel to New Orleans and there is always something to do and see, festivities combined with local attractions can get costly quick. Happily, there are a number of ways to experience the culture and energy of this great city without spending a dime. There are dozens of free things to see and do in New Orleans, but we pulled our top 10 favorites to share with you. Enjoy and let the good times roll!

1. New Orleans Museum of Art. Free admission is offered on Wednesdays. However, if a mid-week visit doesn’t fit your travel schedule, make sure to walk through the museum’s fantastic sculpture garden. The garden is massive and the art works throughout are amazing. If you don’t feel like walking the grounds you can enjoy a snapshot of the works on a gondola. Whether in the Museum or walking through the sculpture garden, you may spend a good part of your day perusing art and artifacts ranging from modern to impressionist, to downright puzzling. Click here to learn about current exhibitions and schedules.

2. Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum. Mardi Gras is an event that is worth experiecing at least once. However, for those that may miss the festivities there is a museum that offers a chance to enjoy some of the magic– the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum. This museum is a quick cab ride or a long walk from the French Quarter. It is packed with masks, costumes, including those for Mardi Gras Indians, vintage photos and much more.

3. Crescent City Farmers Market. Walking through the market is free, of course, the produce is not. But, you won’t have to pay for a cooking class. Cooking demonstrations are given by local chefs who offer lessons and culinary secrets. Although you’ll probably be tempted to purchase some items to snack on or cook with, the secrets that local chefs offer is priceless.

4. Jackson Square. There is no better place to go for free entertainment than Jackson Square. In April, Jackson Square is a central location for French Quarter Festival festivities. At all other times of the year, you’ll find street performers and artists who congregate there. The St. Louis Cathedral provides a striking backdrop for the impromptu performances. There are also three statues of Andrew Jackson at Jackson Square. One stands out prominently. But you can decide which one is the best.

5. St. Charles Avenue. A walk or streetcar ride ($1.25) is worth the trip into the 19th century. St. Charles Avenue is aligned with gorgeous colonial-style mansions, including The ‘Wedding Cake House’, 5807 St. Charles Ave. – a Victorian colonial-revival home dating back to l896. Although walking along St. Charles Avenue is free, we prefer to travel on the St. Charles streetcar. A ride on the famous St. Charles streetcar offers a leisurely and unique way to enjoy the giant oak trees and mansions that you’ll pass. The cost of riding the streetcar will only set you back $1.25 per person, but you can enjoy a ride from the monument at Lee Circle to its end point in the old town of Carrollton upriver. Plus, the streetcar takes you past the New Orleans Museum of Art.

6. Bourbon Street. Admittedly, we tend to stay away from Bourbon Street but it is worth a quick stroll just once during your trip. Street performers can also be found along Bourbon Street. There are some bars that showcase local bands, food and famous drinks like The Hurricane. However, Bourbon Street also has its share of hustlers, pick-pockets, rebel rousers and unsavory establishments. Hang on to your wallet and maintain an awareness of your surroundings, especially at night.

7. New Orleans Voodoo Shop. Entrance into the Voodoo Museum is a bit pricey but it costs nothing to browse the mysterious wares of the museum’s gift shop. The unusual assortment of potions, voodoo dolls, ritual candles and other items used by practioners will keep you occupied for hours.

8. City Park. Though the 1,300 acre park has paid attractions throughout, a walk through the park to enjoy its 800-year-old trees, is free. We suggest you tour the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, or enjoy a few rounds of frisbee golf for a great time .

9. St. Louis Cemetery #1 on Basin Street. “The City of the Dead” is the nick-name given to St. Louis Cemetery #1, the oldest cemetery in New Orleans. While you’ll have to pay for a guided tour, entrance to the cemetery is free so you can wander the grounds on your own (if you dare). One of the most popular tombs is that of Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau, the 19th-century figure who inspires songs and mythical stories to this day.

10. Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve. The Gulf is full of wildlife, including its famous residents, the alligator. If your looking for a close encounter with a gator, you’ll find it at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve where admission is free to bayous, swamps and marshes. Closures and construction are a reality for natural areas frequented by tourists, so check here for updated information before you go.

Tags Free Attractions, New Orleans, NOMA

Adventure and Outdoor Travel Archaelogogical Tourism North America Uncategorized

The Caves of Kentucky

Kentucky is a wonderful place to discover the beauty of underground caverns. These caves are filled with rich history. World Footprints is dedicated to raising awareness of the beauty of such wonders.

Take, for example, the Diamond Caverns in Park City, Kentucky. They were discovered back in 1859. A slave owned by Jessie Coats saw calcite formations sparkling and lowered himself into the caves thinking he had discovered diamonds. Hence, the name of the cave. Then there are the amazing Kentucky caverns which were discovered over 200 years ago. Tours started in 1922. Kangaroos were brought into the country to provide an Australian flair to the above ground experience surrounding the caves.

Outlaw Cave has a unique history that lives up to its name. Having been a hideout for famous bandits such as Jesse James is its claim to fame. Then there is the popular Mammoth Cave. It’s situated in a national park that also features a beautiful waterfall. While less than 400 miles of cave has been explored, this is by far the most extensive cave system known today. In fact, the next two largest cave systems presently discovered would comfortably fit in the aptly named Mammoth Cave.

So if you love exploring under the Earth’s surface, Kentucky is the best place in the world to do it. World Footprints wants to remind you to travel responsibly and leave the natural beauty of the world for future generations to enjoy.

Tags Kentucky

Business Travel Consumer and Travel Industry News Family Travel North America Travel Tips Uncategorized

Traveling with Pets in the USA

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 25, 2014
No Comments on Traveling with Pets in the USA

Pets are a joy to have but travel with them can be a bit of a nightmare, even across the USA.

Not only do pet travel rules vary from airline to airline, but if you’re going by train or ship it can be even more difficult to find a carrier that allows pets onboard.

Dog in RV. Pet travel — It is important to have a special harness when traveling with your dog or cat.

Accommodation for your pet when you arrive is another issue to consider, as though more hotels are pet-friendly of late, not all will cater to your pet’s needs. On top of all that, it’s not just you that can get stressed out during this process as depending on the mode of transport, travel can be a scary and dangerous experience for your fur-baby.

Despite all this, travelers of all kinds want their pets with them. So, how do you get through this pet travel business?

Cat carriers should also have a special harness that keeps them safe during travel.

First off with air travel, there are some generally accepted rules for example: Pets will often require a vet’s health certificate, and must be healthy; they should be at least eight weeks old and weigh less than 100 pounds; pets are not allowed outside of their containers; snakes are generally not allowed; and airlines take no responsibility for the health and safety of your pet. If you’re good with all of that, the next step is to make sure you choose an airline that offers the best options for your pet’s overall wellbeing.

As alternatives, train and ship pet travel in the USA can get a little tricky. A few smaller railroad companies are fine with pets aboard as long as their rules are adhered to, as is the case with boating vessels. For less hassle try Europe, where train travel with pets is usually allowed.

If you choose to hop a bus with “Fido” expect varied rules as you cross states, as they all have their own pet travel rules. Where possible car travel is often the best and most popular option for transporting pets, as most of the time it just requires a special harness that keeps the animal secured during the ride.

Don’t get too despondent about other forms of pet travel and their various hang-ups, as in some cases on airlines for example, pets in cages that are small enough to fit under the seat are allowed in the cabin. There is hope for a smooth pet travel experience.

Tags Pet Travel

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel North America Uncategorized

Unique African-American History Attractions – Beyond Black History Month

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 3, 2014
No Comments on Unique African-American History Attractions – Beyond Black History Month

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later as Black History Month and we greatly owe the celebration of this month of Black Heritage, more so, the study of black history to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The Harvard scholar was disturbed to find that history books largely ignored the black American population-and when blacks were depicted, they were reflected as socially inferior and stero-typed in a very uncomplimentary fashion. Today, thanks to Dr. Woodson and others the historical story of how the month-long celebration of African-Americans came about is amazing and inspirational. But the celebration of African-Americans should not be limited to just one month. Throughout the year there are many lesser known sites around the country where you can celebrate the contributions of African-Americans in a unique way. The African-American Heritage Trail is quite long and the short list that follows doesn’t begin to scratch the surface of the attractions you can visit.

ALABAMA

What better place to visit and learn about Civil Rights than “ground zero” for the Civil Rights Movement Alabama. The Alabama Tourism Department has produced a Civil Rights Trail brochure that includes Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham and Tuskegee. Each with their unique story.

FLORIDA

The L.B Brown House is located in beautiful Bartow, Florida, and in 2001 was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Having been built in the 1800’s by former slave Lawrence B. Brown, it contains nine rooms and is 1700 sq. ft. The structure is perhaps the only one of its kind in Florida that was built and owned by a former slave. The L.B. Brown House is now used as a museum to help educate the public about the significant contributions made by African-Americans to Florida history.

MARYLAND

Maryland’s Eastern Shore, celebrates two of America’s greatest abolistionist heroes–Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass. Both were born on the Eastern Shore, held as slaves on there, and each returned as free people to help others. Talbot, Dorchester and Caroline Counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore highlights the history of the abolitionist movement and these two great heroes.

Reginald Lewis Museum — Reginald F. Lewis Museum photo courtesy of Imagine Photography DC.

Baltimore, Maryland has been the site of many significant historical events that helped pave the way for our country’s first African American president. As the birthplace of our national anthem, the city of Baltimore is no stranger to firsts. Home to the first African American Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall, visitors have the opportunity to extend their inauguration experience into a learning vacation with a wide variety of historical attractions including the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, the country’s first wax museum for African American history; the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture; and the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum, site of the nation’s first African American-owned shipyard.

MISSISSIPPI

The Corinth Contraband Camp and is located in Corinth, Mississippi. A part of the National Park Service’s Shiloh National Military Park, the Contraband Site is called the Birthplace of Freedom. Around the time of Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, many slaves in the Deep South heard that Corinth was occupied by Federal soldiers. These African-Americans sought freedom in Corinth under the security of the Army. Federal General Grenville Dodge understood what effect the defection of thousands of African-Americans would have on the Confederate war effort. He began to enlist the escaped slaves, who came into his lines as teamsters, cooks and laborers. He actively recruited male refugees, armed them, and put them in charge of security at the newly organized camp. Dodge’s refugee administrative efforts led to the formation of the 1st Alabama Infantry Regiment of African Descent, consisting of approximately 1000 men. The Corinth Camp resembled a small town, complete with a church, commissary, hospital, both frame and log houses, and a street grid with named streets and numbered houses. An American Missionary School operated where eager students of all ages sought knowledge day and night. Today, a portion of this camp has been set aside to commemorate the events which changed the lives of so many people.

MISSOURI (Independence)

The 1827 Log Courthouse, 107 W. Kansas Avenue , for many years the only Courthouse between the Mississippi River and the Pacific Ocean . This building was constructed by slave Samuel Shepherd and its sturdy walnut timbers served for a time as the courtroom by Administrative Judge Harry Truman before he became President of the United States. The courthouse is closed November-March for the winter.There is no phone at the courthouse, but information is available by calling Tourism at 816-325-7111 or toll free at 800-748-7323.

The 1859 Jail, 217 N. Main, which operated as the county jail from pre-Civil War time through 1910. The jail was also built by noted slaves who were master stonemasons. The 2 foot thick limestone walls housed famous guerillas such as William Clark Quantrill of Quantrill’s Raiders, Southern sympathizers during the Civil War and famous outlaws like Frank James, brother of Jesse James, and a leader of the James Gang. Phone 816-252-1892.

Woodlawn Cemetery on Noland Road is the final resting place of many prominent black citizens of Independence.

The Second Baptist Church, 116 E. White Oak Avenue, is said to be the oldest African-American church in Missouri. The church was organized in 1864 by a group that first met in 1861 in a one-room house. (Not open for tours).

The National Frontier Trails Museum, 318 W. Pacific, which, in addition to major displays about the westward trails, mountain men and trappers, houses an exhibit of interest entitled: “I Remain Your Affectionate Wife.” The exhibit spotlights seven original letters to a free black man who followed the California trail. The Gold Rush captured the imagination of the entire nation. Thousand of enterprising people filled with hopes and dreams of wealth migrated to California to “strike it rich”. Among these emigrants was David Brown, an African-American who settled in California. Left behind in Ohio was his wife, Rachel Brown. In these extraordinary letters, she describes her life without her man, her loneliness, and her hopes for a future life with David. Sadly, David and Rachel were never re-united.

The Truman Presidential Museum and Library, 500 U.S. 24 Highway, offers a glimpse into modern black history in a permanent exhibit where the desegregation of the armed forces is explored. One of the interactive “decision theaters” also includes a segment which explains Truman’s actions in pursuing desegregation, an act which was highly controversial at the time. Museum admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 youth, under 6 free. 816-268-8200

NEW YORK

Philipsburg Manor and Mill, in Sleepy Hollow, NY, is the country’s only fully staffed living history museum that focuses on the history of northern slavery. The 17th century manor was active from 1693 until 1779 but visitors today can participate in hands-on activities of the day and hear about little-known stories of enslavement in the colonial north. In the working gristmill that is accompanied by the sound of rushing water and the creaking of wooden gears, visitors will learn about the skills of Caesar, the enslaved African miller.

OHIO

On Cleveland, Ohio’s Public Square, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument (honoring those who fought in the Civil War) is nearing the completion of a $2 million refurbishment. In the next couple of weeks we will be re-installing the “broken shackles of slavery” held by Lincoln while he “arms” a freed slave all of which is depicted on one of the interior reliefs.

Ohio is home to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and several other Black History-related attractions. It covers a wide range of topics from slavery and the Underground Railroad to genealogy. General admission is $12, children 6-12 are $8, children under 6 are free. You can check out some of the other sites at Passage to Freedom. These include Harriet Beecher Stowe’s house, also in Cincinnati, and free.

VIRGINIA

Robert Russa Moton Museum, Farmville, VA: Developing museum and historic site is housed in the original building and grounds of R.R. Moton High School where in 1951 the student body walked out to protest unequal conditions. The resulting lawsuit became part of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The museum is the key point of another developing attraction in Virginia, the Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail.

The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar, Richmond, VA: This fairly new museum is the only Civil War museum to explore that war from three equal perspectives – Union, Confederate and African-American. It contains one of the finest collections of African-American Civil War artifacts in existence.

Tags Black History, History Museums

Culinary Travel Events and Festivals North America Uncategorized

Agritourism Meets Fun at Forks And Corks Festival

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 5, 2013
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Every year Sarasota, Florida hosts its annual Forks and Corks Food And Wine Festival, featuring wines, vineyards, and wineries from France, New Zealand, Argentina, Italy, California and Washington state, and the city’s finest cuisine from Mexican fare to locally sourced farm delights. The festival features tastings, informative panels, dinner events, and a lavish collection of wine and dining vendors at the beautiful Ringling Museum grounds.

I tasted farm-raised caviar from the local MOTE Marine Laboratory. Mote Farm-Raised Caviar was well received recently during the Palm Beach Food & Wine Fest During the Fest, celebrity Chef Daniel Boulud, one of the most revered French chefs in New York, had the opportunity to sample Mote Caviar. Boulud is best known for New York’s exquisitely refined DANIEL.

The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota is a beach getaway on the emerald Gulf Coast, known for exemplary service, proximity to shopping and golf, and is home to a restaurant which opened last week, the nautical-themed Jack Dusty. Sarasota, and nearby Charlotte Harbor, were grand getaways.

The region is home to farm raised delights such as strawberries, Sarasota’s popular downtown farmer’s market, and dining establishments such as Mattison’s City Grille, Michael’s on East, Nancy’s Bar-B-Q, Ophelia’s On The Bay in Siesta Key and Placida’s Rum Bay.

Whether it’s beach time, shopping, fine dining, or star gazing you crave, Sarasota has it all.

Tags Florida, Food and Wine, Sarasota

2010 Winter Olympics North America Sports Tourism Travelog: Our Personal Travels Uncategorized

Travelogue: Vancouver Olympics 2010 – Day One

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 16, 2010
No Comments on Travelogue: Vancouver Olympics 2010 – Day One

Olympic Flame in Vancouver. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

After several flight cancellations from Washington DC we finally arrived in Vancouver at 11:15pm on Saturday evening, February 13, 2010. Regrettably we missed the Opening Ceremony but in our short time here we have experienced a wonderful flavor of cultural diversity and national spirit. We have been to Vancouver many times and each time our feeling about this city and our experience here is very special.

After obtaining our media credentials at the British Columbia International Media Center (BCMC) in Robson Square, Vancouver, we went on a walk about. We’ve been to Vancouver many times but the Olympics has brought a positive and exciting energy to the city. With over 250,000 visitors there is a bit of chaos that comes with large crowds but it is a civilized chaos. Everyone is enjoying the Olympic experience and, for those of us who have traveled from a winter wonderland, we are enjoying the mild temperature and sunshine. (We’ve spotted many people in tee-shirts, shorts and flip flops. It truly is not that warm–maybe an average of 50 degrees farenheit, but for some it may be more like summer.)

Robson Square is the heart of the city and the location where all of the outdoor activities are taking place. We are headquartered in the BCMC at Robson Square and are, thus, in the mix of major activities from the outdoor skating rink to the urban zip line and many cultural activities. Only a few blocks away on the Waterfront is the Olympic Flame that sits ablaze on an artistic structure with the majestic snow-capped mountains as its backdrop. Throughout the streets there are hundreds of snowboard looking structures that have been transformed into artistic features (similar to the many elephant and donkey artworks seem through the streets of Washington DC).

Our first Olympic day through downtown also provided some comic relief. As we traveled through downtown Vancouver we came across the expansive motorcade of Vice President Joe Biden as he headed toward the figure skating venue. One gentleman from England couldn’t believe the size of the motorcade and he remarked, “All this for one bloke? Is this carbon neutral?!?” That put a smile on the faces of many people who became annoyed at the long wait along the street they were forced to endure.

Now our station in the Media Center isn’t without multiple perks and enjoyment. We’ve met several journalist–some from DC–and we’ve sat in on a few press conferences, including one with the Canadian women’s modul team. We were also treated to a tasting of West Coast oysters from various Canadian provinces. There are multiple video feeds throughout the center so we have advance notices on medal winners and qualifiers.

All in all our first day was very eventful and we are enjoying the experience.