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thebestintoronto · 4 years ago

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25 Best Things to Do in Toronto, Canada — Top Activities & Places to Go!

Toronto-- the biggest city in Canada-- is a metropolitan area with countless possibilities.

Energised, multicultural and multicultural, Toronto will certainly intrigue you with a bunch of tasks and striking views. From gleaming skyscrapers to private parks, this city makes sure to offer you an impressive city adventure through its numerous tourist attractions.

Do not recognize where to start? We're right here to help make your preparation experience a breeze by rounding up the best things to do in Toronto, Canada.

1. CN Tower

Towering over downtown Toronto, this 1,813.5-foot symbol was as soon as the globe's tallest free-standing framework.

Why You Must Go

With its skyrocketing apex controling the metropolitan landscape, CN Tower is a standout in the city's stunning sky line. In fact, the American Culture of Civil Designers declared this tower as one of the contemporary 7 wonders of the globe in 1995.

What To Do

Take the high-speed 58-second flight to the top of the tower. Afterward, head to the LookOut Level and also absorb the sensational views of Toronto at 1,136 feet in the air. You may additionally take a heart-pumping stroll on the thrilling EdgeWalk experience.

2. Toronto Zoo

With a monstrous land area of 710 acres, this zoological park is the largest as well as most considerable zoo in Canada.

Why You Need to Go

A visit to this zoo is, no question, one of the top points to do in Toronto with kids. With greater than 4,500 creatures calling it home, this zoo will certainly mesmerize the little ones. Also much better, this zoo features a myriad of world-class exhibitions.

What To Do

Come by the prize-winning Gorilla Rainforest, which is The United States and Canada's biggest indoor gorilla display. Likewise, you might partake in any one of the zoo's seasonable activities, like the Zoomobile flight, carousel and also ropes program.

3. Royal Ontario Museum

Because its opening in 1912, this museum in the University of Toronto has accumulated over 5 million artefacts.

Why You Must Go

Wondering what to do in Toronto when it's raining or cold? Why not head inside your home, and also discover the Royal Ontario Museum? With 40 galleries real estate numerous things, you'll have a blast admiring the diverse display collections of natural history and also world culture right here.

What To Do

Catch a broad array of antiques, consisting of Chinese temple art, Roman sculptures and dinosaur bones. If you have youngsters taking a trip with you, you can keep them quelled at the CIBC Discovery Gallery and also hands-on gallery.

4. Distillery Area

In the very early 19th century, this waterside area was residence to Canada's largest distiller, the Godderham and also Worts. Today, it's a pedestrian-only area including dining establishments, cafes, performance spaces as well as art galleries.

Why You Must Go

If you're looking for remarkable free points to do in Toronto, look no further than the historical Distillery Area. With its cobblestone roads, Victorian structures as well as year-round outdoor exhibits, it's a great location to go on an affordable taking in the sights adventure.

What To Do

Walk around the area, and soak up its beautiful setting. Then, treat on your own to a genuine Canadian mixture, or sign up with any one of the area's art classes.

5. St. Lawrence Market

Correct in the heart of downtown, this historical market has been generating succulent eats since 1803.

Why You Should Go

St. Lawrence Market is a heaven for foodies. House to more than 120 suppliers, this precious market offers whatever from exquisite breads and tasty meals to fresh veggies. And also, the marketplace has rather cost effective items.

What To Do

Satisfy your palate with the market signature meals, such as the peameal bacon sandwich. Likewise, try to rack up substantial bargains on ornaments and also antiques at this market on the weekends.

6. Toronto Islands

Located in Lake Ontario, these little and easy-going islands are residence to a bundle of family-friendly tourist attractions.

Why You Should Go

Need a break from the continuous enjoyable and taking in the sights in Toronto? Do on your own a support as well as include this chain of islands to your checklist of areas to check out in Toronto this weekend break. With extensive beaches and barbecue locations, these islands provide a rejuvenating break from Toronto's big city vibe.

What To Do

Head to Centre Island, as well as delight in a bunch of activities as well as destinations, like showing off rentals as well as beaches. Afterward, drop by the Centreville Theme park where you'll discover a boating shallows, a stroking zoo and a ton of trips.

7. Harbourfront Centre

Established in 1972, this 10-acre upscale beachfront community bursts with tasks to thrill travelers of all red stripes.

Why You Must Go

Yearly, this complex location attracts about 16 million site visitors. Exciting year-round, this waterside website boasts a myriad of notable places, consisting of dining establishments, yards, parkes, art galleries and also cinemas.

What To Do

In summer, site visitors can relax on Sugar Coastline too go kayaking and paddleboarding. If you're going to in wintertime, you may skate by the lake or see the Toronto Songs Garden. As well as, did we state that the venue hosts around 4,000 occasions each year?

8. Casa Loma

Embed in downtown Toronto, this 98-room Gothic Revival home was built in between 1911 and 1914.

Why You Ought to Go

With its eye-catching towers as well as Instagrammable exterior, this lush mansion is just one of the fascinating things to see in Toronto. What's even more, the castle shows off a marvelous 5-acre garden decorated with sculptures, fountains and wildflowers.

What To Do

Tour the mansion and also uncover several of its distinct functions, such as its secret passages, huge wine rack and also horse stables. You'll likewise like that 700-foot-long tunnel that links the stables to your house.

9. Toronto Botanical Gardens

Open up given that 2003, this 4-acre oasis attributes 17 lovely, award-winning and great smelling themed yards.

Why You Must Go

Searching for romantic things to do in Toronto for pairs? After that, visit the TBG, and take a romantic and also picturesque walk with your companion in its stunning gardens. With a myriad of attractive flowers and also a laid-back charm, this oasis makes an excellent area to unwind and loosen up.

What To Do

If you want an even more thorough understanding right into the 17 gardens, take a 1-hour led scenic tour below. Conversely, you might take an app-guided sightseeing tour that will take you around the tourist attraction's grounds.

10. Ontario Scientific Research Center

Wowing visitors for 50 years, this museum on Don Mills Roadway is filled with educational and thought-provoking exhibitions.

Why You Must Go

The Ontario Scientific research Center makes learning exceptionally fun with its 500 interactive exhibits. From its planetarium to its aging maker, this scientific research museum will entertain and surprise you in a selection of ways.

What To Do

Have a look at the museum's IMAX cinema and also watch an academic film about scientific research and modern technology. You can also join the gallery's presentations that array from papermaking to power. As well as, do not fail to remember to strike the Living Earth experience as well as rocket chair.

11. Kensington Market

A former Jewish district, this bohemian market sprang to life in the 1902 with households setting up stands to sell goods.

Why You Should Go

Kensington Market is the city's cultural capital. With its diverse vintages shops, lively feeling and also tantalizing restaurants, this market is an outright banquet for the detects. While a little disorderly, this market ensures to maintain you occupied for hrs.

What To Do

Even if you're not into shopping, you'll still appreciate strolling casually via the art-clad and wacky market. Naturally, you'll find plenty of yummy goodies as well as cool finds below, with a few of them coming from Asia and also Europe.

12. Hockey Hall of Popularity

Established initially in 1943, this museum is a stellar display of ice hockey's intriguing history.

Why You Should Go

While hockey isn't exactly the nation's main sporting activity, it's somewhat the unofficial faith of Canada. As well as, there's no better place for more information about the nation's enthusiasm for this sporting activity than the Hockey Hall Of Fame.

With 65,000 square feet of event, this museum will offer you a thorough take a look at this preferred sporting activity. In addition, it bids die-hard hockey followers with loads of epic sport artefacts.

What To Do

See many remarkable hockey-related displays, such as the goalie gear of Terry Sawchuk and also the original Stanley Mug. Also, capture the Puck Wall, which includes a thousand pucks or even more that were gathered from different globe tournaments.

13. Ft York

Constructed in 1793, this historic fort was utilized by the Canadian militia and also British Military to defend the Toronto Harbour's entrance.

Why You Ought to Go

Ft York is one of the must-see historic destinations in Toronto. Through smart guides as well as a series of battle remnants, this historic marvel will provide you a peek of the city's seductive past. Plus, it has some pleasant sights as well as views as well.

What To Do

Enjoy the armed forces drills and also cannon firings as you see this website. Furthermore, you might participate in its flag raisings in addition to trip the police officers' as well as soldiers' quarters.

14. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Managed by Ripley Home entertainment, this fish tank has 1.25 million gallons of freshwater and also aquatic habitats from all over the world.

Why You Must Go

Ripley's Aquarium Of Canada is among the can't- miss enjoyable points to do in Toronto, Canada for households. With 135,000 square feet of undersea and interactive displays, it's the largest indoor aquarium in Canada today.

What To Do

The undersea passage, known as the Dangerous Shallows, is, for many people, the highlight of their check out right here. As you venture right into this tunnel, you'll find a lot of gorgeous animals, including environment-friendly sea turtles as well as relentless sand tiger sharks.

15. Bata Shoe Gallery

Inaugurated in 1979, this special museum mainly shows the individual footwear collections of benefactor Sonja Bata.

Why You Must Go

The Bata Footwear Gallery supplies an one-of-a-kind indoor experience in Toronto. Unlike your normal gallery, this tourist attraction concentrates on presenting shoes as well as various other related products. Presently, the museum has around 12,000 shoes and also shoes artifacts that date back 4,500 years.

What To Do

Make certain to take a look at the museum's showstoppers, consisting of the Chelsea boots of John Lennon as well as the silk slippers of Queen Victoria. You'll additionally love the red leather heels of Marilyn Monroe as well as the Dolce as well as Gabbanas of Madonna.

16. Toronto Eaton Facility

With a yearly participation of 50 million visitors, this buying sanctuary is the busiest shopping mall in North America.

Why You Should Go

Toronto Eaton Center sees a lot more yearly site visitors than either of the busiest shopping malls in the United States: Ala Moana facility and Shopping mall of America. Remarkably, it likewise draws more visitors than New York's Central Park.

And also, with over 250 elegant sellers, this complex makes sure to give shopaholics their repair and window shopping.

What To Do

Invest a day searching for bargains as well as fads at leading merchants, like Forever 21, Train and Steven Madden. After your electrifying buying spree, order a fast eat from any one of the many food selections in Urban Restaurant.

17. Scarborough Bluffs

Situated in Toronto's eastern end, these bluffs stretch throughout 15 kilometers along the photogenic Lake Ontario.

Why You Ought to Go

Don't let the pictures trick you! With its sandy beaches, cascading high cliffs as well as blue-green waters, the bluffs might look a little tropical and also unique. However, guess what? This imposing geological marvel is located in Toronto.

What To Do

Enjoy the spectacular sights from the top of the bluffs neglecting the lake. You might likewise increase to the 300-foot towering cliffs or trek it. Additionally, you'll discover outing areas and also a sandy beach at Bluffer's Park.

18. Allan Gardens Sunroom

Open year-round, this no-cost attraction in the Yard District was originally opened up in 1860.

Why You Ought to Go

The Allan Gardens Conservatory has 6 greenhouses including plants and also blossoms from around the world. As well as, while it's a bit little, the sunroom also offers various other destinations, consisting of a canine park and a children's playground.

What To Do

Visit the tropical houses, which are loaded with begonia, bromeliads and orchids. As soon as done, visit the Palm House, and find a multitude of exotic creeping plants, bananas as well as palms.

19. Toronto Food Tours

Led by Cook Scott Savoi, this scrumptious excursion lets you eat your way around the city's neighborhoods, such as Old Chinatown.

Why You Must Go

There's no better method to example Toronto's varied cuisine than to take this chef-led food tour. From Little Italy to Koreatown, this excursion looks into the ethic groups as well as electrical communities in Toronto.

What To Do

Satiate your Eastern food cravings by taking their Chinatown food scenic tour. For 3 hours, this scenic tour lets you relish 12 food tastings at 6 various restaurants and stores. Also much better, you'll appreciate an authentic Dim Sum experience and make a rest stop to a Chinese Grocery store.

20. Nathan Phillips Square

With a total area of 12 acres, this urban plaza is the biggest city square in Canada.

Why You Must Go

Nathan Phillips Square overruns with fun as well as activity. From annual occasions to shows, the plaza always buzzes with task. And, the best component is, you can appreciate the majority of them, for everyone's preferred cost of no dollars.

What To Do

Relax at Peace Garden, walk the elevated walkway and do some ice skating at this plaza in winter months. Additionally, you may appreciate the square's performances, shows, rallies, regular farmers' market as well as yearly events like the wintertime lights festival.

21. Trinity Bellwoods Park

Sandwiched in between Dundas Road West and also West Queen West, this 36-acre park is a neighborhood favorite in Toronto.

Why You Ought to Go

There's no lack of age-friendly entertainment in this rich park. Whether you're visiting it in wintertime or summer, you'll find a number of great as well as worthwhile tasks in this park. To make things also much better, a lot of the park's tasks are easy on the pocketbook.

What To Do

When the weather is warm, visitors will have access to a vast array of centers, including a kiddie wading swimming pool as well as sporting activities areas. You can additionally join the BYO outings and come to be a part of their social scene. In winter season, you can go ice skating on its magnificent rink.

22. Art Gallery of Ontario

Situated comfortably in midtown Toronto, this 45,000-square-meter bonanza is one of North America's largest art galleries.

Why You Should Go

Residence to over 90,000 screens, this gallery is a piece of paradise on earth for art connoisseurs. Besides its Native as well as Canadian art displays, this gallery also has notable work of arts by European legends, like Picasso.

What To Do

Be mesmerized by the gallery's European collection featuring jobs by artists, such as Claude Monet as well as Edgar Degas. You might also admire the contemporary jobs by Canadian greats, consisting of Jeff Wall and also Michael Snow.

23. TIFF Bell Lightbox

TIFF Bell Lightbox, developed in 2010, is a social attraction in Toronto understood for its cinemas and also learning studios.

Why You Need to Go

TIFF Bell Lightbox isn't just the official headquarters of the well-known Toronto International Film Event. With 5 impressive state-of-the-art cinemas, it's likewise one of the much more fascinating points to do in Toronto tonight. And also, it houses a restaurant, a gallery area and a movie library.

What To Do

If you can't make it to the 10-day movie carnival in September, you can still appreciate this center by seeing a flick below. From international indie movies to timeless blockbusters, their movie theater runs film shows throughout the year.

24. Aga Khan Museum

Set down on a beautiful 17-acre park, this opulent gallery was opened in 2014 to highlight Islamic Art.

Why You Should Go

Aga Khan is The United States and Canada's very first museum that's devoted to featuring Islamic art. Funded by Shia Ismaili Muslims, this gallery was opened to share the scientific and also artistic creations of the worldwide Islamic areas.

What To Do

Capture the museum's long-term collection of 1,000 pieces of Islamic art. Furthermore, you might experience the gallery's unique events and events.

25. High Park

Covering 400 hectares, this all-natural as well as entertainment paradise is Toronto's solution to New York's Central Park.

Why You Should Go

No listing of the best points to do in Toronto, Canada is complete without this sprawling urban park. From untouched nature sites to themed yards, High Park will certainly move you right into happiness with its irresistible greenery. Moreover, it provides a load of amazing and interactive activities.

What To Do

There's a lot of things to do in this park. Not only does it have a zoo, however it also has ice skating rinks, tennis courts as well as an exterior pool. There are additionally playgrounds for the sprightly children.

The article “ 25 Best Things to Do in Toronto, Canada — Top Activities & Places to Go! “ was appeared first on Family Destination Guide

The IV Lounge - IV Therapy Toronto Drip Clinic

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daryldixonswifey · 6 years ago

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We have to move. Her mother told her.

Why? She asked.

Your father's job is relocating him. We will be moving to Nashville at the end of the month.

I don’t want to move.

Well, you can stay here.

And be that far away from the two of you. I will move with you. At least it will get me away from my terrible job.

This is my two weeks’ notice. She told her boss.

What has made you decide to leave? Her boss asked.

My father's job is relocating him and I have decided to move also so I can be close to my parents.

Well, I hate to see you go. I hope everything works out.

Thank you. Could you do one thing and not tell anyone I'm leaving. She asked.

Sure. But can I ask why. Her boss asked.

I just think it would be easier.

It was her last day of work and she knew that she had to tell the one person at work that meant everything to her that she is leaving.

Can you meet me in my office before we leave today? She asked him.

Yeah, sure. He said. What's up? We'll talk later. She said.

So what did you what to talk about? He asked as he flopped down in a chair in her office.

She took a deep breath and turned to face him.

Today is my last day. She said.

What! Why? He asked.

My dad got relocated for work and I’m moving with him and my mom. Wow. I understand wanting to stay close to your family. But I hate to see you go. He frowned.

I hate leaving, but I think it will be the best for me in the long run.

Well, I can't let you leave without doing one thing first.

What’s that? She asked.

This. He put one hand on her back and pulled her close. His other hand he placed on her cheek before pressing his lips to hers.

After a few minutes, he slightly pulled away. They looked into each other’s eyes.

I've wanted to kiss you for the longest time. He whispered.

I've wanted to kiss you too. She replied blushing.

He pulled her closer to him. He kissed her collarbone, neck, cheek, and forehead before kissing her lips one more time.

I'm gonna miss you. He quietly said. I'm gonna miss you too. She replied breathlessly.

The next two weeks were hectic. Between the packing up of the old house and the unpacking of the new house. She barely had time to breath, but she couldn't stop thinking about him and the kiss they shared. Late one night, she finally got the time to text him.

Her: Hey. How are you doing? How is work?

Him: Hey stranger. I thought you forgot about me. I’m fine. Work sucks without you. How are you?

Her: I'm good. I didn't forget about you. I've just been real busy.

They talk for hours.

Her: Is it really 2a.m.?

Him: Yeah. I guess it is.

Her: I'm sorry. I shouldn't have kept you up this late. You have to go to work in a few hours.

Him: It's perfectly fine. I can handle a day at work tired if it means that I got to talk to you.

Him: I miss you.

Her: I miss you too.

Her: Can I ask you to do something kind of stupid and old-school?

Him: Nothing you ask me could be stupid. What do mean by old-school?

Her: Will you write me a letter?

Him: A letter?

Her: Yeah. You know with a pen and paper. Put it in an envelope with a stamp and mail it.

Him: I know what a letter is.

Him: I'll write you as many letters as you want.

A few days later.

You got something in the mail. Her mom told her as she handed her a brown envelope.

She looked at the return address and saw that it was from him. She opens the envelope and poured the contents out onto the table. There were dozens of numbered envelopes and one that said open first. She opened the first one.

It read:

A letter for every day and every moment that I've missed you.

She proceeded to open all the letters. Some contained full pages, some had random thoughts, some were cute little quotes that made him think of her, but others contained pictures of him (these were her favorite ones). She spent the next day and a half compiling letters of her own for him.

The back and forth of letters continued for months.

Until one week when nothing came. All she could think was.... Maybe he's been busy, maybe he got bored with the whole thing, or worst he found someone else.

She hadn't gotten anything or heard from him in two weeks.

Still nothing? Her mom asked.

Not a word. She frowned.

Maybe he's working on something really special.

Yeah. Maybe.

Ding... Dong....

I’ll go get the door. Her mom said as she kissed the top of her head.

Her mom returned a minute later. The door is for you.

She got up and went to answer the door.

There he stood holding a large envelope.

Thought I would deliver this one myself. He said with a smile.

Your here. She grinned.

I thought... She started.

You thought what? He asked.

That maybe you had forgotten about me and moved on. She replied.

I'd never forget about you. Not in a million years. He said.

She showed him around the house before they both sat down on the couch. She opened the envelope he brought. It contained one sheet of paper that read. I'm your gift this week. They sat and talked for hours. He joined her and her parents for dinner.

Do you have a hotel room? Her mother asked.

No, ma’am. I don't. He replied.

Well, you can stay here for the night if you like.

Thank you. I was hoping that she might go out of town with me this weekend.

I would like that very much. She smiled.

The next morning they left for a nearby tourist town.

I've never been here before. He told her.

Oh. I've been here several times. They got a number of distilleries right on the main road. Your gonna love it.

As long as I'm with you I know I'll enjoy anything.

They checked into a hotel right on the main road within walking distance of the restaurants and distilleries. They walked side by side both avoiding any kind of physical contact. All the while both wanting to touch the other even if it was to just hold hands. They went to all of distilleries and then ate dinner. On the way back to hotel she said to him.

I bet you can't finish a whole bottle of moonshine.

I bet I can. He retorted.

Prove it. In fact why don't we make this a true bet? If I finish a whole bottle you have to get a tattoo of our boss's name on your chest.

Ok. If I win you have to get a tattoo of my favorite sports team.

Deal. They said at the same time. Well, looks like you’re getting a tattoo she said.

I can't believe you finished that bottle so quick. He sighed.

What can I say? I like moonshine. Now it's time for you to get that tattoo.

They walked the few blocks to the tattoo shop.

What can I do for the two of you? Asked to shop owner.

I lost a bet so I'm here to get a tattoo. He told the owner.

And what were you thinking of for the tattoo?

He turns to look at you.

I'm not gonna make you get the tattoo we talked about, but you do have to get a tattoo. She told him.

Any tattoo. He asked.

Yeah.

Then I want your lips on my chest. He told her.

What? Are you crazy?

Yeah. Crazy for you.

If that's what you want.

It is.

She watched for a few minutes as the tattoo artist worked on putting a copy of her lips on his chest. She then sat down in a chair of her own. What are you doing? He asked.

I figured why should you be the only one to get a tattoo. She smiled. What are you getting?

Well, not your favorite sports team that’s for sure. I'm getting a clover with a ladybug.

Wow. It got cool after the sun went down. She said rubbing her arms as they stepped out of the tattoo shop. Come here. He said pulling her beside him.

They walked back to their hotel.

I think I'm gonna take a quick shower. She told him.

Ok. I'll take one when you’re finished.

Showers taken they both sat on the couch watching an old movie.

She couldn't help but feel like he was watching her.

What? She asked.

Huh?

Why are you staring at me? She asked.

Because you’re beautiful. He grinned. No. I'm not. She said turning her face away from him.

Yes. You are. He said placing a hand on her cheek and turning her face towards him.

She relaxed at the touch of his hand.

He slid closer to her and leaned in for a kiss.

Just before their lips touched she pulled away.

What’s wrong? He asked.

Nothing is wrong. I thought you might like to go to the bedroom. She said.

I would like that. Is that what you want? He asked.

She paused a minute before answering.

Yes. It's what I want. She replied. The night was more than they both could have ever wanted. They planned on using the rest of the weekend taking in the sights of the town, but they spent most of it in bed together.

I wish you didn’t have to leave. She told him.

I wish I didn't either, but we'll see each other again soon. Plus we'll still write each other. He said pulling her into a hug.

He was right. They did continue to write each other. Both receiving a package every week. Then one day a single letter with no return address arrived priority mail.

It was from his mom.

It read:

This was the only way I knew how to contact you. My son was in an accident. He is unconscious in the hospital. I know you mean a lot to him. He talks about you constantly. I think it would do him some good if you could come see him.

She was in tears when she finished the letter.

What’s wrong? Her mom asked.

He was in an accident. I have to go see him.

OK. I'll go with you. Her mom said giving her a hug. The whole trip there she was on pins and needles worrying how bad his condition was.

She took a deep breath and tried to calm herself before entering his hospital room. She broke down when she saw him lying there with tubes and wires attached to him. Hey, you. She said sitting down in the chair next to his bed and taking his hand.

You need to wake up now. You need to come back to us. There are a lot of people that need you and are counting on you.

I need you.

Our baby needs you.

That's right. We're gonna have a baby.

So... you need to come back to us. She whispered before lightly kissing his lips.

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travelnbabble · 4 years ago

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Havana, Cuba, Mar 6-10, 2020

[Cigars, Vintage cars, communism but so so much more]

Since we’re still in a pandemic right now, this might not be the best time to blog about International travel (it is honestly starting to sound like a joke to me now after 7 months of being at home), but still I want to document this JUST IN CASE one day the world opens up again. Fingers Crossed.

Cuba is the one of the most interesting places I’ve traveled to. Having lived in a communist country for so long and learned about Chinese communist history, I definitely see some similar traits on how things operate there (compared to China before 1980s). 70-80% of locals have government jobs, limited quantity and variety of everyday supplies and a generally closed off economy. However, the culture was a huge surprise. Because of colonization all the way until 70s or something and close proximity to the US, the architecture, the people and even the food are just a fascinating mix of old Spanish, Caribbean and the Americas with a touch of Chinese influence (from I guess inter-governmental support). Glamours western looking palaces, stunning hotel rooftops (with Hemingway’s favorite daiquiris), extremely welcoming people, run-down multi family homes, Chinese brand buses, vintage (and very loud) Fords, moka coffees, and of course music cigars and Havana Club rum. There’s literally a little bit of everything which makes this place unfathomable at times but definitely very unique.

------------------

I spent 5 days in Havana, RIGHT before the US closed the border due to COVID-19.

Stayed in an Airbnb in Old Havana

[balcony of my airbnb]

Everything was great besides no Wifi, which was pretty much the case with any accommodation besides large government operated hotels. With the visa I have (support for Cuban people) I was not supposed to stay in those so...My Airbnb host gave us a phone for emergency contact.

------------------

Participated in 2 Airbnb experiences

One was a rooftop tour (with drinks) in vintage cars (yes one of those very ‘fancy’ ones you see I tourist pics). Went to some of the best hotel roof tops, Madonna’s favorite restaurant, etc.and just amazing views.

[sunset so pure and holy]

[Another one]

[rooftop of Kempinski with a pool and direct view of the Capitol]

[the host had such good energy the group chatted into later in the evening and everything lit up]

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The other was lot more cultural, basically a city tour with two Cuban college students learning about Cuban people. Had some very open and honest conversations about locals’ lives, struggles, Cuban government, social systems, political views etc. Very eye opening and informative.

The most shocking part for me was the drastic difference in lifestyle between the rich and the poor. Pretty incredible to see what tourists get to experience vs. how locals actually lives.

Remember the rooftops and impeccable views? Well for local Cubans working government jobs, one drink will probably cost half months’ salary, let along staying overnight in a hotel room.

We got to go inside to a local multi-family homes and spoke with people living there. 12 families (or was it 15) cramped in a tiny tiny yard. The living conditions were...brutal to say the least. Photographing their private rooms felt a bit too intrusive to me so I took photos outside.

[outside of the multi-family home. Each window is at least one household]

As we walked towards the Chinatown area, which was right across Capitol (the central area), this is how different things are. I took these two photos standing in the same spot, just facing opposite directions. On one side-

[grandiose]

and on the other side:

[slum, building were literally falling apart and mostly empty with no windows]

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I would recommend both experiences because I got to this country under very different lights and pretty in depth. In short, local life here is really tough but tourist/rich life is pretty damn amazing.

------------------

Havana Club Factory

I personally like visiting distilleries when I travel. Being able to see how different types of liquor come to be is interesting and it’s always good to learn about the history behind the brands. Like, sugar cane to rum? Magic. And honestly the silver one makes great Cuba Libre even with Diet Coke.

Since Havana Club is THE local rum brand and one of the most famous exports of Cuba besides maybe Cohiba, I had to pay the factory a visit. Unlike Bacardi factory in Puerto Rico, where they literally take you around in a golf cart, this place is a lot smaller but still very impressive. Needless to say I brought some back for friends but unfortunately they are still sitting in my home coz ugh COVID.

[look at that molasses]

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Cigar Factory

Also worth a visit. I didn't have a photo here but it’s a operating factory and the whole cigar making process open for display. I watched workers literally from picking the right leaves, rolling the cigars, cutting, packaging them, etc.

[on my way to the Cigar factory]

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Food and Drink

Great but not as cheap as you think. The prices are comparable to US, not NYC but maybe...Charlotte? I went to mostly restaurants for tourists instead of local ones which were generally way cheaper but not the best quality. You are welcome to try but I didn't want any accidents and was on vacation so decided to treat myself okay.There were plenty of decent restaurants and amazing food. Clean, fresh and amazing flavors. Not just rice and beans for sure.

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Internet and communication

Like I mentioned before, wifi is not really a thing. I got Internet cards from my Airbnb host and also bought from the post office. It’s hourly and with the card I can log in and use internet at Wifi spots. Some specific park and post office.

In terms of calling and texting, I used T-mobile and the local phone my host provided to contact them.

Language - locals speak Spanish. I... don't really. Most people understood a little bit of English especially if they are in the service industry (like they know ‘water’ if you're trying to buy water in a store, most restaurants have English menus ). Locals in general are nice and will help as much as they can. I mean I survived pretty easily.

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Traveling right before pandemic/lockdowns?

It was a little scary at the end coz there were very very limited internet access for tourist and we were worried we won't be able to go back or worse - get the virus and be stuck sick in a foreign (and definitely not very medically equipped) country. Thank God that didn't happen, and it was an amazing trip.

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Alrighty, hope this is some what helpful and I realllyyyy hope we get to travel again soon. My inner travel bug has definitely been buzzing.

Until then, stay safe and have faith:)

xxx.

Cindy

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aplanehebuilt · 7 years ago

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Having No Plan to Meet Jack

Roy and I were snuggled on a worn, red sofa, our feet propped on the coffee table. Embers crackled and popped in the fireplace. The fire smelled of apple-wood. The last bits of sunlight filtered through window, slanting across the dining table and yellow carpet. I held a book, and Roy, his computer. Outside, gold and red trees rustled on the roof. Images of our time spent hiking the trails of the Smokey Mountain National Park ran through my head, like water in the rivers we’d walked along.

The Petit Jean Fly-in was next on our agenda. That started Friday, and it was only Tuesday. We’d be checking out of the Buckhorn Inn the next morning, with no plan between now and then. I always like to have a plan. I like to know where we’re going, where we’ll find dinner and where we’ll sleep.

As much as it unnerves me not having a plan, I couldn’t work up to making one. I wanted to stay where we were, in our cozy cabin. But weather was moving in to Tennessee and if we didn’t make for Arkansas, we wouldn’t be able to attend the Fly-in.

Roy looked up from his computer. “Where should we go tomorrow?”

I shrugged. “Somewhere in West Tennessee,” I replied, “Or Arkansas.” I abdicated control with a sip of wine. Roy nudged my shoulder. “How about visiting the Jack Daniels Distillery?”

“That sounds great,” I said. I thought of looking for hotels and restaurants, but my book and glass of wine felt higher priority. It’ll be fine, I told myself. It’s okay to not have a plan, I reassured myself.

The next day we flew out of the Knoxville Downtown Airport into a cloud-streaked autumn sky. There was just enough sun to illuminate the brilliant forest beneath us. There wasn’t much time to admire; we’d be landing in Tullahoma in an hour, and we had no plan. I poked at Foreflight on the iPad to see what hotels there were, and find a place to have dinner.

“Foreflight says there’s a courtesy car,” I said.

Roy nodded. “I expect there is.”

“Can we use it to get to and from our hotel?” FBO’s aren’t always okay with keeping the car overnight.

“I was hoping we’d camp in the pilot lounge,” he said.

I squirmed. And if we can’t? I thought. FBO’s were less kind to traveling pilot’s these days because of security regulations, or to refrain from competing with local hotels, especially in tourist destinations. We’d met with such mixed results to our request to camp in the pilot lounges recently that I’d started to feel like a hobo when I’d asked. Or maybe it was my military up-bringing, that one should always be self-reliant and asking for things is weakness, kicking in. My mind pictured the two of us, tired after a full day of travel and tourist-ing, calling around trying to find a basic clean bed and shower, and me getting grumpy and wanting dinner, and, and… Don’t be such a control freak, I told myself. It’ll be fine.

“Camping is fine,” I said, “But would you ask this time?”

The folks at the Tullahoma airport FBO greeted Roy and me as if we were expected. Roy signed our N-number on the courtesy car form and asked about staying the night in the pilot lounge. The gal behind the desk said, “Sure. No problem.”

“What’s your favorite place to eat?” I asked her, my adventurous side kicking in.

“Route 59 BBQ” she replied. “I go there for lunch all the time.”

We stacked our gear in the pilot lounge, climbed in the old Ford Taurus that was the courtesy car, and drove out to Lynchburg, Tennessee. We paraded through the grounds with our tour group, snapped photos, sniffed vats of fermenting mash, listened to our guide share the history and unique process for making Tennessee Whiskey, sipped a sample flight, and exchanged some airplane fuel for a few bottles of Single Barrel Select.

We drove back to Tullahoma in the fading sun and found Route 59 BBQ at the edge of town. Two young gals in a place the size of my grandma’s kitchen piled mouth-watering chicken and ribs, a healthy square of cornbread, and savory pinto beans on to Styrofoam plates. No room left in our bellies for Blackberry cobbler, the kind topped with a pastry crust, so we took that to go.

The FBO was quiet when we returned. All the lights were out and the doors locked. An access code let us in to the pilot lounge, kitchenette and restrooms. It was our own, private space. Roy turned the TV on to the last game of the World Series. We curled up in recliners, ate blackberry cobbler, and cheered the Astro’s to victory.

That night I lay snuggled in my sleeping bag on the nubby carpeted floor next to my snoring hubby. I listened to the hum of the refrigerator in the kitchen, and watched the green and white flash of the airport beacon diffract across the window blinds. I smiled from deep inside. A perfect day, and a perfect evening, and not a single bit of it was planned. And it was fine.

#lynchburg #Great Smokey Mountains #photo jouralism #Travel Photography #travel writing #Adventure travel #General aviation #vans aircraft #rv-7a

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wineanddinosaur · 4 years ago

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The Landmark Kentucky Law Bringing Vintage Bourbon to the Masses

Gone are the days when whiskey hunters could enter off-the-beaten-path liquor stores and expect to leave with a haul of rare, out-of-production bottles. In recent years, the options for scoring vintage bottles (known to collectors as “dusties”) have been all but limited to auctions or illegal secondary marketplaces on social media networking sites.

In Kentucky, that dynamic has changed. The big-game targets of dusty hunters can now be bought and sold legitimately by the state’s bars, restaurants, and retailers, thanks to a landmark vintage spirits bill that came into effect in 2018.

In the two years since the bill was enacted, every level of Kentucky’s alcohol industry has found innovative ways to profit from the now-legal secondary market. Distilleries have added new attractions to their on-site experiences; new categories of alcohol retailers have sprung up to meet the demand for dusties. Some on-premise locations have made vintage spirits the core of their drinks programs, while others have included just a few dusties to add a dram of nostalgia to their menus.

Bringing the World’s Best Bourbon Libraries to Kentucky

Enacted on Jan. 1, 2018, House Bill 100 (HB 100) allows distilled spirit license holders to buy “vintage spirits” from non-licensed individuals then sell them by the pour or by the bottle. The bill defines vintage spirits as “a package or packages of distilled spirits that are in their original manufacturer’s unopened container; are not owned by a distillery; and are not otherwise available for purchase from a licensed wholesaler within the Commonwealth.”

Such legislation is not the first of its kind in the U.S., though only a handful of states have similar statutes. Bars in Chicago, Washington D.C., and Portland, Ore., have built impressive collections of rare vintage bottles, gaining them national recognition. Among them, and most notable of all, is Washington D.C.’s Jack Rose Dining Saloon, whose list boasts more than 2,700 bottles.

Jack Rose was, in fact, part of the inspiration for Kentucky’s legislative change. “Every time we go to Washington, we pretty much live at Jack Rose because of that fabulous bourbon library,” says Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA). “One day we finally said, ‘The world’s greatest bourbon libraries should be here in Kentucky.’”

While the KDA helped draft HB 100, not everyone in the association — nor the state — supported the bill, says Chad McCoy, state representative for Nelson County, Ky., and the legislator who sponsored the bill.

“We’re in the heart of the Bible Belt, so we have a large population that has a moral objection to drinking; not every county allows the sale of alcohol,” McCoy says. “Getting a law passed that’s going to possibly allow more alcohol sales is a challenge, even though this is a massive industry for Kentucky.”

The progressive legislation also brought mixed responses from distilleries. Fears that HB 100 would create a platform for counterfeits fueled pushback from some producers. Those concerns were ultimately alleviated by the stipulation that all sales must be reported to Kentucky’s Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). “We can prove who the buyers and the sellers are, so now there’s accountability,” says McCoy.

The bill doesn’t just offer once-in-a-lifetime drinking experiences for spirits lovers, nor is this simply a case of clamping down on phony bottles of Pappy. For the first time, there’s a legitimate outlet for Kentucky residents looking to offload inherited collections they don’t intend to drink. Historically, many distilleries included whiskey in their workers’ compensation packages, so it’s a surprisingly common scenario.

Gregory says the KDA receives regular calls from state residents asking what they can do with unopened bourbon cases they discovered while cleaning out a relative’s attic or basement.

“Now there’s an avenue to sell it,” he says and adds that it’s a win-win scenario all around. “The state loves it because they’re getting another tax hit on it. And consumers love it because now they can try something that they [previously] had to buy in secret on the black market.”

Credit: Revival Vintage Spirits / Instagram.com

Profiting From Kentucky’s Vintage Spirits Law

Set on 100 acres of working farmland, Bardstown Bourbon Co. touts its distillery experience as a “Napa Valley-style destination” and the first of its kind on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The distillery amassed a library of over 400 antique bottles from private collectors before opening its “Bottle & Bond” bar and restaurant in June 2018. “We were getting ready to open the restaurant just as the legislation passed,” says Dan Callaway, Bardstown’s vice president of hospitality and product development. “It was perfect timing for us.”

Esteemed bourbon author Fred Minnick helped curate the menu, which features bottles that date back to 1892. Prices for 1-ounce pours range from $30 for 1970s-era Wild Turkey to $2,500 for ultra-rare expressions from the Van Winkle collection. Callaway says the aim was to create a balanced list that lets guests taste the history of Kentucky bourbon. It was essential to place lower-priced, accessible “steals” on there, but thousand-dollar pours were necessary to keep replenishing the collection, he says.

A new “speakeasy-style” tasting room, set to open in late September, will soon showcase Bardstown’s impressive vintage bottle collection. It will also offer another revenue stream as it will be used to host private tastings. But even then, the bottle library will never represent a significant income generator for Bardstown — a distillery that makes 7 million proof gallons of bourbon a year. Instead, “it’s about creating experiences,” Callaway says.

Off the beaten track, locals and tourists also take advantage of Kentucky’s vintage spirits legislation more modestly. At The Merrick Inn, in Lexington, the most expensive pour guests will find on the menu sells for $60 per ounce (an 18-year-old Jefferson’s Presidential Select distilled at the now-shuttered Stitzel Weller distillery). “We don’t have a big market here for pre-Prohibition bottles and $200- or $300-ounce pours,” bar manager Dexter Murray says.

All the vintage bottles sold at The Merrick Inn came from Murray’s personal collection, amassed over years of dusty hunting that began when he was 21. Rather than a means of attracting crowds, introducing vintage pours to the drinks menu was a simple way to add depth to the restaurant’s already award-winning bourbon selection, Murray says.

“People from out of town love to get something from their birth year or that they remember their dad or grandfather drinking,” he says. “It was a no-brainer for me to hop on that as soon as the legislation passed.”

Brad Bonds, co-owner of Revival, a vintage bottle shop in Covington, Ky., is also a longtime dusty hunter. Before opening his store earlier this year, Bonds built a vintage spirits division at Cork N’ Bottle, another Kentucky retailer. At Revival, however, dusties are not just part of the offering; they represent the business’s foundation.

Revival doesn’t just offer out-of-production whiskeys; the store also trades in vintage rum, gin, Scotch, and tequila. “If it’s old, I want it,” Bonds says. Revival also has an in-house tasting room, where customers can enjoy daily happy hours before committing to purchases. Anyone looking to walk away with some 1970s-era Jim Beam can sample a half-ounce pour for just $5 during happy hour.

Bonds had to overcome multiple challenges to launch the business, including the global pandemic. But up until now, sourcing bottles has not been an issue. “People are constantly bringing us their treasures of yesterday because they don’t want them anymore,” he says. “I’m here to find them a new home.”

Bill Thomas, the owner of Washington, D.C.’s Jack Rose, agrees that times have changed since the glory days of dusty hunting 20 years ago. The vintage bottles are still out there, he says, though they’re usually lurking in basements rather than on run-of-the-mill liquor store shelves.

As someone who’s been buying, drinking, and selling vintage spirits for two decades, Thomas has watched stocks deplete and seen bottles that once sold for $9 per pour fetch 40 times that much — and that was before bars and restaurants throughout Kentucky got in on the action. So how does he feel about the new quasi-democratized, vintage spirits landscape he partly inspired?

“I’m glad for these laws,” he says. “We have to get stuff out of basements, attics, and closets, where it’s no use to anyone. Let’s get them in the hands of drinkers.”

The article The Landmark Kentucky Law Bringing Vintage Bourbon to the Masses appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/kentucky-vintage-bourbon-law/

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johnboothus · 4 years ago

Text

The Landmark Kentucky Law Bringing Vintage Bourbon to the Masses

Bringing the World’s Best Bourbon Libraries to Kentucky

Gregory says the KDA receives regular calls from state residents asking what they can do with unopened bourbon cases they discovered while cleaning out a relative’s attic or basement.

Credit: Revival Vintage Spirits / Instagram.com

Profiting From Kentucky’s Vintage Spirits Law

“I’m glad for these laws,” he says. “We have to get stuff out of basements, attics, and closets, where it’s no use to anyone. Let’s get them in the hands of drinkers.”

The article The Landmark Kentucky Law Bringing Vintage Bourbon to the Masses appeared first on VinePair.

Via https://vinepair.com/articles/kentucky-vintage-bourbon-law/

source https://vinology1.weebly.com/blog/the-landmark-kentucky-law-bringing-vintage-bourbon-to-the-masses

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isaiahrippinus · 4 years ago

Text

The Landmark Kentucky Law Bringing Vintage Bourbon to the Masses

Bringing the World’s Best Bourbon Libraries to Kentucky

Gregory says the KDA receives regular calls from state residents asking what they can do with unopened bourbon cases they discovered while cleaning out a relative’s attic or basement.

Credit: Revival Vintage Spirits / Instagram.com

Profiting From Kentucky’s Vintage Spirits Law

“I’m glad for these laws,” he says. “We have to get stuff out of basements, attics, and closets, where it’s no use to anyone. Let’s get them in the hands of drinkers.”

The article The Landmark Kentucky Law Bringing Vintage Bourbon to the Masses appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/kentucky-vintage-bourbon-law/ source https://vinology1.tumblr.com/post/629343205849219072

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boozedancing · 4 years ago

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The last time we tiki’d with you was way back in the frosty winter of 2018 when the pineapples were chilling and the orchids were hibernating. Yes, it gets a tad frosty in Redondo Beach, Bub. That was for Tiki 101 at Hudson House. A crash course in tiki with some hall-of-flame cocktails.

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A lot has happened since then…

We’ve gotten to know our own Tiki home much better in the Age of Coronavirus. Our hair has grown past our grass skirts, we have our own line of tiki-inspired masks (N95 filters not included), and we converted the Cal 20 sailboat in our backyard into a Bar & Grill as a home project. Come over sometime for a Mai Tai!

But way before we all started doing the Quarantiki Twist, Mrs. Satellite Engineer and I stepped up our tiki adventure ladder a few more rungs. Don’t look up my grass skirt, you Cads and Cadettes! The Missus is hell-bent on exploring the adventurous world of those tasty cocktails, and who am I to say “No!” to homemade cocktails? So last summer (hell, it could have been last week since we have zero idea how a calendar works anymore), we loaded up the truck and moved to San Diego for 3 days and 2 nights at Tiki Oasis in America’s Finest City, per the local tourist board. America’s Fish Taco Capital is just as good a moniker if you ask me, and would look equally nice on a plain white napkin which you’ll need as you suck down three grilled mahi-mahi tacos with crunchy purple cabbage and a tangy chipotle lime crema para un camión de tacos. But I digress.

Tiki Oasis 19 (yes, there have been eighteen previous ones for those keeping score at home) is quite possibly the country’s most famous tiki festival. I’m sure others will fight over the title, but tiki should bring souls together, not sprout fighting. No one likes to see sprouts fight. C’mon, People, there’s plenty of space on the island! Let’s hold hands and hum a few bars of Tiny Bubbles. Fighting aside, Tiki Oasis is one crazy 4 to 5-day experience. These noobie attendees were stunned by the sheer numbers descending on the Mission Valley Crown Plaza that seems made for the event with its coastal, tropical decor. 3,000+ attendees is the number we heard bandied about. That’s a lot of Hawaiian skirts and shirts!

DAY 1

We stayed across Interstate 8 at another hotel only a three-minute drive away from the craziness. There are plenty of hotels along the I-8 corridor for all the San Diego tourists to choose from as they bop around from the world-famous zoo to SeaWorld to Mission Bay. We chose semi-wisely, as our hotel was teeming with many families and noisy tots surely off to the aforementioned hot spots.

We had no desire to see lions, tigers, whales, or surfers. We were here to see the laid back world of Tiki. Music, cocktails, shopping, seminars, oh, my! And more! We didn’t know what “more” was but we were all for finding out. Walking into the Crown Plaza that Friday afternoon and seeing the crowd of tiki-ers of all ages was mind boggling. Throw in the explosion of colors from flowers, attire, tattoos, and decorations, and we knew we were in the right place.

The Tiki Oasis schedule is a complicated grid with activities starting when the sun is just waking up yet warm to the touch. We mapped out our day in light pencil and started with a quick recon mission of the island. It was almost too much to take in with live music at the pool and a scattering of vendor booths along the perimeter. Alcohol was definitely in the air along with sunscreen. Skin protection is almost as important as a well crafted jug o’ mai-tai.

The Crowne Plaza’s event center was home to our first seminar. Here was where the bulk of the vendors were selling their wares as well as registration to get our wristbands that “can’t be taken off for all of Tiki Oasis”, we were told pleasantly by the very friendly staff. You can buy virtually anything “Tiki” here. I think I was witness to a guy buying an unmarked island 1,200 nautical miles due east of Tahiti. Or you can buy a $50 handmade mug or the $25 version made in China. You pick. It was a mall of tiki. Serious business for an un-serious event.

The Harbor Lagoon room in the Grand Hanalei event center was the spot for our first seminar: “Create a World of Tiki in Your Home Bar” with Pam Kueber, a retro renovation expert (hence, her website retrorenovation.com). Her talk was sponsored by Licor 43. A booze sponsored home remodeling seminar? Count us in! Ms. Kueber got the creative juices flowing with her pitch on how to approach a home build of a tiki bar or room. The packed room listened attentively to her 7-point plan of attack that would work just as well if you decided to renovate your boring 1960’s bland tract home to a mid-18th century Middle Eastern palace style, or are just as excited to set up your autonomous nation-beach state under palm trees and keep below the radar:

What’s the goal?

Get in touch with your (Tiki) style. (Oh, yes, there are many.)

Plan the design considering the space.

Don’t forget to design in lights, sound, electric, plumbing, etc.

Consider structural issues.

Install your “canvas”, i.e., walls and ceilings.

Decorate to create intimacy

All this while learning to love the palette of “brown”. And NO WHITE WALLS! Or a television. Ms. Kueber is tough!

She showed various before and after photos of home tiki renovations from across the country including her own in New England. The crowd ooh’d, ahh’d, and drank Licor 43. This tiki reporter may have poured-his-own Bowmore Dorus Mor from his backpack. Only Mrs. Satellite Engineer (aka Gidget) knows for sure.

We walked out thinking that our own family room is a waste of a space for television watching and keyboard tapping. The doggy door is critical though. Could this be our own tiki room and bar? Hmmm. Stay tuned.

After sushi and cocktails in one of the hotel bars, more exploring led us to a whole fascinating world of the “unofficial” Tiki Oasis.

The room towers of the Crown Plaza were a vast unknown world for us to explore, one that didn’t seem to be mentioned much in all the Tiki Oasis literature. What’s to explore? They’re hotel rooms, right? Two words: hospitality suite. We saw “gig” flyers plastered on walls and pillars, bathroom mirrors and trash cans, elevator doors and elevator walls around the hotel, all for suite parties in the hotel towers. The parties were all sponsored by various producers of adult beverages. Are you seeing a theme? The daylight events were heavy on the cocktails and tastings. The nighttime ones were heavy on the cocktails, black lights, and music (more on this later). Our first stop was Room 1649 for booze tastings from SinShip Spirits Co. and 117° West Spirits, both local distilleries making rum. We were more than pleasantly surprised to find our dear old buddy Trent Tilton of San Diego Distillery helping his San Diego neighbors out by pouring their spirits. We would come across crazy Trent again pouring his own array in 1649 the next night. Mr. Tilton may well be the king of the San Diego distilling world with his hands-on creations. His bear hug greetings are always welcome and sure to put one into traction for 7-10 days.

Room 1649 was where we also met up with friends, Bartender Jessica Souza (of Hudson House) and Josh McLeod (founder of iconic electro analog band Fartbarf). We’re envious of these two tiki pros who built their own outdoor home bar. Cocktail maven + creative graphics artist = The Hoodoo Hut; which is available for private parties and cocktails-to-go! Book your holiday party now! We drank and explored with these two nuts who could tell you real from not real and cool from not cool on the shopping trail.

The rest of the afternoon was spent roaming the aforementioned vendors in the Hanalei building. The rabbit hole of tiki shopping is far, wide, and very deep. Be very careful! All major credit cards are accepted. Plus ApplePay. As we said before, it’s endless. Need an 8’ hand carved teak surfboard? How about a framed poster from How to Stuff a Wild Bikini? Maybe a Hawaiian shirt? Maybe a thousand Hawaiian shirts? Or a konacopia of tiki mugs that would stretch from downtown San Diego to Bora Bora? It was the ultimate marketplace of all things South Pacific. From classy to kitschy. Must-have to what the hell is that? From “whoaaa!” to “ewww, my eyes are bleeding, make it stop!”.

And the shopping fun continued around the pool. Various ground level guest rooms just spitting (pre-COVID) distance from the pool were transformed into hospitality suites with vendors using them as mini outlets offering plenty of space for drinks too. Come on in, grab a drink, check out our tiki mugs, shirts, sculptures, and dresses. Try something on in on changing room/bathroom. C’mon, you want to! And our friends from various adult beverages companies had their own kiosks stationed around the pool as well. It’s a veritable one-stop for all things tiki, including refreshments.

All the shopping and drinking with a tasty sushi lunch with cocktails in the hotel was just a lead up to the main stage. Literally.

MUSIC

Every year, Tiki Oasis has a theme. Just like you and me. Previous years’ themes included International Espionage, Monster Island, and Beatnik-Tiki. This year was Catch the New Wave which was an homage to ‘80s New Wave and Punk music. Now you’re talking our language!

Headliners included Orange County punk rock heroes, Agent Orange; Gerald Casale of Devo (now a noted Napa winemaker); Romeo Void’s Debora Iyall; Josie Cotton; Tim Polecat of the Polecats; and The Fleshtones. If you were anywhere within the broadcast range of KROQ or KXLU back in those days in Southern California, you heard all of these bands. Under the lights in front of standing and dancing crowds, the 80’s came alive. Maybe the throngs and thongs were just scared of the 20’ tiki to the right of the stage breathing smoke. Who knows?

But of course Tiki oozes music all its own and doesn’t need radio era music. Not a bit. Those exotic sounds from tiny islands with gentle breezes for background harmony or guitar heavy jangles are aplenty. And the other 20 or so bands took you from the beaches of Polynesian islands to the surf shacks of Hawaii.

To name just a few of the artists on the big stage and the poolside overlook one: The Insect Surfers who Gidget and I saw 25 years ago in a Manhattan Beach bar; The Hula Girls; Judd Finkelstein (owner of Judd’s Hill winery) & Tiny Bubbles; Drifting Sands; The Intoxicats; Jessica Von Rabbit; Joey and His Showmen; Los Tiki Phantoms; The Devil-Ettes; Tikitronic (who play an amazing version of “Bella Lugosi’s Dead”); The Surfragettes; and The Tikiyaki Orchestra. Plus, of course, El Vez, the Mexican Elvis, because, sure, why not?

Music, music, and more music.

The “more” music was later in those hospitality suites. As the sun settled down for the night into the Pacific horizon, the tunes ratcheted up – way up – in those suites. By day, these rooms were crazy but fun little parties for spirits companies to pour and chat up their offerings. Each room had some kind of theme. Ole Room 1649 was heavy on the fluorescent colors of those wild 80’s.

But once darkness descended, darkness truly descended.

The four-sided inside perimeter of the Crown Plaza tower is a long rectangular atrium with a serene stream and lush foliage on the ground floor. But above, the pathways of each floor were anything but serene at night. Long lines formed to get into each of the suites hosting parties. Doormen manned each party letting two partiers in as two partiers exited. The lines looked to be an hour or more long waits for free admission to…well, we had no idea what free got you exactly.

Black lights, strobe lights, no lights lit and unlit the hotel rooms that now had become mini concert venues with cocktail bars. Think about your last holiday trip at a hotel. Maybe it was a Crown Plaza a short drive from grandma’s house. Maybe you had the kids with you. And the dog too because you smartly (for a change) picked a pet friendly hotel even though the cleaning deposit was $1,000. Now imagine your pretty standard hotel room without any furniture, the windows covered completely with blackout curtains, the kitchen counter turned into a bar, the lights turned off aside from a strobe or two, and the wall – where the couch should be – has three guys dressed like Magnum P.I. except with masks playing surf versions of Danzig at a deafening volume or what sounds like Danzig if Danzig wore masks and were double parked so they had to play twice as fast so the van with the extra equipment wouldn’t get towed like the last time at the Holiday Inn off I-5 in Encinitas. Oh, yeah… imagine there’s a go-go dancer about 18” from the guitar player in a bikini in a “cage” showering beads of sweat on anyone in shower range (pre-COVID). The go-go dancer, not the guitar player, because him showering off beads of sweat would be gross. Now that’s a holiday trip, my friend. Call grandma, tell her one of the kids is vomiting so you’ll come by tomorrow. With bagels. Don’t tell her you were spritzed with go-go dancer flop perspiration while the Fink Bombs blew the f***ing door off the room. Yes, the Fink Bombs.

And that’s just one example of what those hospitality suites turn into come nightfall. We went to about half a dozen them. It was horrible. NOT! One suite had two different cover bands playing surf versions of your favorite 80’s hits. One of those bands had a Ramones look. Another party had a whole Bowie thing going. The party never stopped and the lines seemingly never ended.

We made it back to our humble chain hotel in one piece with a only bit of ringing in the ears. A final whisky nightcap then bed because Day Two was only hours away.

Day 2

After we had a decent Crown Plaza continental breakfast (you can make your own waffles!), the Better Half was off to an 80’s new wave make-up class. I passed on this – hot green eyeliner isn’t my thing – and instead strolled the grounds and found myself on Author’s Row in the events center. Authors and artists in the tiki world were set up behind tables selling books and chatting with the peoples. I was pleasantly shocked to find three superheroes there.

Martin and Rebecca Cate of Smugglers Cove bar and book fame gladly autographed their tiki bible to my wife (our second copy) as we chatted about a little of this and a little of that including how hard it is to find purple Hawaiian shirts. And the table next to them was another HOF’er, the one and only, Jeff “Beachbum” Berry. I picked up the classic “Sippin’ Safari” with the Man’s autograph Sharpied on the front page. Next time in New Orleans, post-pandemic, his Latitude 29 will be a must-do. A cool cat if there ever was one, Jeff was happy to spend a few minutes talking cocktail stuff. This little visit with these elites of the tiki community speaks volume of this little corner of the world. All of its denizens are just the friendliest folks you’ll ever find. All everyone wants there is only a little piece of an exotic far-off place and to share it with someone else looking for the same.

The next seminar was “Riffs & Spiffs: How to Craft Your Own Cocktail” with Tiki Lindy, a cocktail pro and nerdy pharmacist which entertained the satellite engineer to no end. And it was sponsored by Pusser’s Rum which entertained me to no end. Ms. Lindy walked and drank us through charts and spreadsheets on how to adapt, re-create, and make your tiki cocktails better. I feel like I need a refresher course in Excel though.

Our last “formal” event was a breezy rum tasting in a small event room. Various rum companies including Pussers, Clement, and Don Papa had booths and poured samples. Licor 43 made a cocktail with a popsicle, and even Monkey Shoulder whisky had a table. It was a nice event that gave us an air conditioned respite. With rum.

There were plenty more things to do and see over the weekend. A car show in the hotel parking lot with classic cars tikified. Food trucks. The Parade of Caftan adorned women through the parking lot. The midnight burlesque show… sorry, no kids allowed. But for the kids there was the Tiki Tween Party and the Tiki Tots Playroom. We got you covered, grommets.

youtube

Another afternoon and evening of frolicking – yes, we frolicked and no one cared – of shopping, music, eating and cocktailing, and we were bushed. There was more to do on Sunday morning but we chose to head north on a leisurely drive home, or as leisurely as I-5 can be from San Diego.

It really does seem so long ago. Many cocktails under the suspension bridge since then. Tiki Oasis Arizona was scheduled for a few weeks ago. But instead of being at a hotel In Scottsdale, it was held virtually on Instagram and a few other online spots. Not exactly what anyone planned on months ago.

The beauty of Tiki Oasis is that it’s anti-social distancing. It’s a gathering of social closeness, meeting people, dancing, kibitzing, and doing what tiki folk do… have fun! Gidget and I planned to go to Tiki Oasis 20 this year in San Diego, again in August. But it’s anybody’s guess if it will be happen at Paradise Point in Mission Bay or in the comfort of our own home on a computer. COVID-19 has thrown Tiki Oasis-20 a 20’ wall of water. But it, like the rest of us, will ride it out because on the other side are warm breeze, cool drinks, and a sunset right out of a movie. A tad corny? Maybe, but the tiki crowd is always smiling no matter the surf conditions or the storm on the horizon. Tiki Oasis is that happy place to look forward to better tropical days.

The WCO (aka @AaronMKrouse) relives his experience at @tikioasis 2019 in #SanDiego, The World’s Biggest Island Lifestyle Festival! #Tiki The last time we tiki'd with you was way back in the frosty winter of 2018 when the pineapples were chilling and the orchids were hibernating.

#Cocktails #Events #Photography #Pictures #San Diego #Tiki #Tiki Oasis #Travel

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topfygad · 5 years ago

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How to Spend a Day in Kobe

When you hear the name ‘Kobe’, one of two things come to mind: the basketball player or the famously good beef that happens to hail from this idyllic Japanese port city.

Prior to visiting, my image of Kobe was not a particularly inspiring one. I imagined a dull port city that just happened to be home to some fantastic steak, and saw it as the kind of place I might make a quick trip to in order to check ‘eat Kobe beef’ off my Japan bucket list.

Boy, was I wrong!

Kobe won me over from the very first. It is a green, dynamic city with so much going on that we left wishing we’d allowed ourselves more than just one day to experience it.

With that being said, it is possible to do Kobe in one day and do it justice.

Kobe is a green and gorgeous city. Soraku-en Garden is just one example of this.

How to Get to Kobe from Osaka

While it’s perfectly possible to find a hotel in Kobe and extend your stay there, for the purposes of today’s post, I’m going to assume you’re like most people and you’re skipping across from nearby Osaka.

Assuming you aren’t driving or walking, the train is going to be your best bet. For the purposes of this itinerary, you want Shin-Kobe Station.

The JR Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Kobe takes roughly 15 minutes and will set you back around 1,500 yen ($15 USD).

For those on a bit more of a budget, you can also reach Kobe from Hanshin Umeda Station, Hankyu Umeda Station, or Osaka Station on the JR. In all cases, you’re looking at around 35 minutes and 320 yen ($3.20 USD).

You can also travel from Osaka Station in as little as 20-25 minutes or from Osaka Namba Station in 45 minutes. In both cases, the cost is 410 Yen ($4.10 USD).

If you’re fresh off your international flight and want to get right into the action, you can head to Kobe from Kansai Airport in 1 hour and 45 minutes for 1,710 Yen ($17.10 USD) or from Osaka Itami Airport in 45 minutes for 510 Yen ($5.10 USD).

Storing Your Luggage at Kobe Station

If you’re like me, you’ll probably be traveling with your life strapped to your back.

if you’re only planning to spend a day in Kobe, I would advise storing your luggage at Kobe Station upon arrival so you aren’t wrestling with backpacks all day.

Coin lockers at Shin-Kobe Station start at 300 Yen ($3 USD) for a small and go up to 1,600 Yen ($16 USD) for an extra large.

Ninubiki Falls is well worth the 15-minute hike.

Hike to Nunobiki Falls

Our first stop on our day in Kobe is right behind Shin-Kobe Station, with picturesque Nunobiki Falls one of the most accessible hikes you’re likely to find in all of Japan.

Seriously, you bid farewell to the station, briefly walk through a quiet neighbourhood, and you’re already beginning your ascent through the woods towards one of Japan’s most beloved waterfalls. Nunobiki is often described as one of Japan’s three most significant waterfalls, and it’s just a 15-minute walk to get you there!

The best part? It’s absolutely free to visit!

Even an overcast day couldn’t diminish our enjoyment of the Kobe Herb Gardens.

Explore the Kobe Herb Gardens

Once you’ve snapped your photos of Nunobiki Falls and descended, we’re ducking just around the corner to the stunning Kobe Herb Gardens.

I had my doubts about the appeals of visiting a herb garden, but Nunobiki Herb Gardens is absolutely worth a visit.

The view from the Kobe Herb Gardens’ ropeway is worth the price of admission on its own!

The Ropeway

While it is possible to hike all the way up Mount Rokko to the gardens, the scenic ropeway offers a relaxing and visually stunning way to make your way to the mountaintop.

Tickets are 1,500 Yen ($15 USD), but this includes the return journey and access to all of the gardens, boutiques, and restaurants sitting atop the mountain.

It’s a scenic 10-minute ascent that provides you with an absolutely breathtaking view of Kobe.

Making your own fragrance is a fun way to take home a little bit of Kobe.

View Rest House & Fragrance Museum

Once you’ve reached the top of Mt. Rokko, you’ll find yourself standing before a decidedly German-influenced building. If you’re visiting in the holidays, like I was, you’ll even find a quaint German Christmas market in full-swing.

Inside the Rest House are boutiques and a fragrance museum, where guests are encouraged to sample the many heady scents that go into making perfumes and other goods.

If you’re after something hands on, you can even try your hand at making your own perfume or bath oil, which makes for a nice souvenir.

Richelle and I standing in front of a statue to ensure our love remains lucky.

Tropical Gardens & Cafe

Making your way down the hill, you’ll pass through both herb gardens and floral gardens before you make your way to the tropical glasshouse. If you’re looking for a break from the cool mountain air, this is a nice dose of warmth.

There is also a cute little cafe here boasting a fantastic view of Kobe, as well as herbal foot baths you can indulge in for around 100 Yen ($1 USD).

The Descent

Once you’ve had your fill of delicious coffee, fragrant treats, and gorgeous gardens, you can board the ropeway at the mid-point station and complete your descent.

Of course, the option is also there for a leisurely stroll down the mountain if your knees are up to the strain.

A tour of a sake distillery is a great way to work up an appetite for sake.

Lunch and a Sake Brewery Tour of Kobe

While Kobe beef might be Kobe’s most famous export, the city’s Nada district is actually Japan’s largest sake producer.

A combination of high-quality rice and perfect conditions have meant Kobe has been synonymous with Japan’s famed rice wine from the very start.

No visit to Kobe would be complete without sampling this potent potable, so I’m suggesting two stops to learn a little about sake culture.

A Kaiseki Lunch

You’re probably hungry by now, so we’re going to stop off at at Sakura Masamune (Japanese only site) for one of Japan’s most delectable cuisines: kaiseki.

Kaiseki is a multi-course Japanese meal themed around seasonal products, meaning you’ll get a different culinary experience depending on what time of year you’re visiting.

Sakura Masamune has an on-site sake museum, but it’s not especially impressive and there’s precious little English. We’re just here for the food!

You can also buy a bottle of sake with your face printed on the label here, which is a pretty fun souvenir!

Admission is free, but your meal will depend on your menu selection.

We definitely don’t look like tourists…

Touring Hakutsuru Sake Brewery

It’s a short walk (or taxi ride) from Sakura Masamune to Hakutsuru, which offers a fantastic and comprehensive tour of both sake production and the history of the craft.

The best part? There are English-language videos for every display and the entire museum can be toured in around 15-20 minutes.

Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to sample 4-6 different sakes. I’m a big fan of ume-sake (sour plum sake), but you may find you’re more partial to other varieties.

Admission is free.

Gorgeous girl. Gorgeous garden.

Soraku-en Japanese Garden

With a full belly and a pleasant buzz on, it’s time for a stroll in one of Japan’s meticulously manicured gardens.

Soraku-en is a truly gorgeous little island of tranquility in the heart of a bustling city. It’s easy to forget about the world beyond its walls and the Japanese maple with their reds, oranges, and golds.

Entry is just 300 Yen ($3 USD) and is well worth it. In addition to the trademark arched bridges, beautiful ponds, and quiet groves, you’ll also find gardening competitions, a historic European-style villa, and an idyllic picnic area to stop and sip an iced coffee.

Image courtesy of Christopher Chan.

Stroll Around Meriken Park

With the sun setting and the air beginning to cool, it’s time to get a taste for how modern and dynamic Kobe is.

Grab a taxi to Merikan Park, the revitalized section of Kobe’s port district. With its eye-catching towers and architecture, it’s a great place to snap a few city skyline photos and enjoy the wind whipping in off the ocean.

Highlights include Kobe Port Tower (especially at night), the eye-catching Kobe Maritime Museum, and distinctive Meriken Park Oriental Hotel, which looks like a pleasure cruise has washed up on shore!

Admission to the Kobe Port Tower is 700 Yen ($7 USD), while the Maritime Museum and attached Kawasaki Good Times world can be visited for 600 Yen ($6 USD). For those wishing to visit both, a 1,000 Yen ($10 USD) pass gets you access to Kobe Port Tower, the Maritime Museum, and Kawasaki Good Times World.

Whether you’re just snapping pictures or visiting the touching Kobe Earthquake Memorial, there’s plenty to occupy you as you people watch.

Shopping in Kobe

The nearby Kobe Harborland shopping precinct is also worth a look, with a variety of Japanese and international brands, restaurants, cafes, and more to keep you entertained.

We only had a half-hour to explore, but we saw plenty to convince us that Harborland is an area we’ll revisit in the future.

My mouth is watering remembering how damned good this tasted!

Try Kobe Beef

Your visit to Kobe wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the piece de resistance of Kobe cuisine: Kobe Beef.

As you might imagine, there are countless restaurants offering up this tantalizing treat, but we went to Mouriya Honten, one of the top five Kobe beef restaurants in the city.

It. Was. Delectable.

I’m a man who likes his red meat (gout be damned) and is justifiably proud of Australia’s world-class steaks, but my Kobe beef experience was borderline tantric.

Small slices of perfectly cooked steak, a variety of herbs and dipping sauces, and equally delicious side dishes and appetizers to accompany it. All washed down with ume-sake or Australian wine.

Is Kobe Beef Expensive?

There’s no mincing words here: a Kobe beef meal can be a pricier prospect than ramen, sashimi, or takoyaki, but I think of it this way:

It’s likely to be one of the best meals of your trip;

It’s a bucket-list worthy experience in its own right.

A good Kobe beef restaurant has set menus starting at 5,000 Yen ($50 USD), but keep your eyes peeled for deals that can bring this down. Mouriya Honten occasionally offers their 6,000 Yen set for just 3,900 Yen if you book through their website.

Kobe really is a gorgeous city.

Where to Stay in Kobe

While it’s totally possible to follow the above itinerary and do a single day in Kobe, it’s a city that deserves to be savoured.

There are plenty of Kobe hotels catering a range of tastes and budgets, so why not splash out and spread the above adventures over two days?

A little bit in love with this girl and this garden.

Your Thoughts

Is Kobe on your Japanese to-do list? What are you most excited about for your visit?

Have you already explored Kobe and spotted a glaring omission in the above? Let me know!

Got a question about Kobe? Post it below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

DISCLAIMER: My trip to Kobe was made possible by a partnership with Kansai Tourism Board. All opinions, however, are entirely my own. If I don’t like something, you’ll know about it!

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source http://cheaprtravels.com/how-to-spend-a-day-in-kobe/

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samanthasmeyers · 6 years ago

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Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

Conferences, conferences everywhere. SearchLove here, INBOUND there. There’s no shortage of great marketing conferences to choose from, but you’ve likely got a finite budget your marketing department can put toward them. How are you supposed to know which Martech events are the best bang for your buck?

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

And not in an “it’s our hometown so we have to say it’s beautiful (lest we be Game of Thrones-style shamed in the streets)” way, either. It really is amazing: the ocean, the mountains, the diverse food scene, the beer-snob-approved breweries, and awe-inspiring wilderness that makes you forget about your inbox. There’s a reason tourists flock here in droves and I willingly pay a crazy amount in rent.

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

Many past attendees and speakers have added a few extra days on to their CTAConf excursion to enjoy this city. And if you’d like to do the same, we’ve created a visitor’s guide to CTAConf 2018 sourced from local influencers, this year’s speakers, past attendees, and our own favourite to-dos. See the pro’s suggestions below for turning this August’s work trip into a well-deserved getaway.

Wanna attend CTAConf for free? Scroll down to tweet this post for a chance to win a complementary ticket to CTAConf 2018, $500 toward your travel, and a “Destination Experience Pass” for free access to all local and many out-of-town attractions valued at $2000, courtesy of Tourism Vancouver.*

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

The Call to Action Conference, insofar as the speaker’s talks, takes place August 28—29th at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. There’s also an optional day of hands-on marketing workshops on August 27th at Unbounce HQ. If you tack on the weekend days before to your trip, or an extra few days at the end of the conference, here are some itinerary options to fill up your stay:

See the sea, walk the wall

Hands down, a walk, bike or run along the seawall is a must-do for every Vancouver visitor. Flanked by the Pacific Ocean and Stanley Park, it’s easily accessible from anywhere downtown and the simplest route to absorbing Vancouver’s natural beauty.

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Granville Island is like a tiny world unto itself, small in square footage but big on things to see and do. Peruse an art gallery, watch a play, go on a whimsical shopping spree at the many artisanal shops, and—most importantly—eat your heart out. There are tons of restaurants to hit, and be sure to poke around the Granville Island Public Market, an overwhelming smorgasbord of local fare.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

While you’re at the Granville Island Public Market, load up a picnic basket and hop on Joe’s BBQ Boat—no explanation needed. Because what’s better than floating around on the open water and soaking up the sunshine? Doing so while working up a good meat sweat. Find fellow BBQ buffs to join you in the CTAConf Facebook group and fill that boat up! Conference networking at its finest.

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

With fantastic breweries boasting some of the finest craft beers in the world, a good old fashioned crawl beckons any beer lover who visits. East Vancouver is your best bet for variety and walkability. You can check out: Strange Fellows Brewing, Andina Brewing Company, Parallel 49 Brewing, Postmark Brewing, Doan’s Craft Brewing, Callister Brewing Company, and Strathcona Beer Company.

Have your best brunch

It’s no accident that I’ve placed the brunch options after the brewery crawl. Whether you’re in dire need of a greasy spoon or looking to brunch in style, we’ve got you covered. Yolks showed up on everyone’s list when we asked around for favourite brunch spots, as did Chambar, Medina Cafe, and Fable Restaurant. Jam Cafe, Wildebeest, Catch 122, and The Distillery are guaranteed to please as well. As is Canadian brunch custom, you’re required to order a Caesar. Don’t ask what’s in it.

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

If it does rain, your indoor options are covered. Conveniently tucked away in Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium is a must-do. See giant sea lions and playful seals, watch penguins toddle and slide around (aw!), touch a starfish or manta ray (weird!) and try to find the octopus (you can’t, he’s too sneaky) as you journey through B.C. and beyond’s underwater world.

Oh canyon, my canyon

As past speaker Wil Reynold’s knows, the Capilano Canyon suspension bridge and cliff walk is worth a few anxious moments. Just a quick jaunt across the Lions Gate Bridge (an attraction on its own!), this otherworldly spot makes it hard to believe you’re so close to the city. Not too far away is another canyon and yes, another suspension bridge in Lynn Canyon Park—a little less crowded, 100% free, and as beautiful as ever.

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

Stay in Kitsilano. It was a beautiful area! I would probably stay there every time I visit. I’d recommend bringing the fam—it was a great city to have the kid and felt really walkable, so take advantage of that. – Wil Reynolds

Go to Bowen Island and spend the day exploring. It has something for everyone from hiking and biking to eating and drinking. Check out my favourite store, Branch and People. Then go eat seafood and drink a good old Canadian Caesar. – Kathleen Reid

Drive up to Squamish via the Sea-to-Sky Highway, stop for a burger lunch at the Watershed Grill, then head up to Whistler for dinner and drinks. The drive itself is breathtaking. It’s the journey, not the destination.- Sandy Pell

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

Check out Stanley Park. It is truly a unique aspect of Vancouver – the park is huge (840 acres) and wilder than one would expect. Among other things, it has a record-breaking Big Leaf Maple tree that is over 800 years old. – Michael Aagaard

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Depending on whether you’ve signed up for the August 27th workshops, Monday through Wednesday will be jam-packed with marketing learning. Monday’s workshops are optional and on a first-come, first-served basis after registration is sent out to ticket holders.

Both Tuesday and Wednesday are busy with talks starting at 9am sharp. These days you likely won’t want to miss anything in the theatre (save for trips to the food trucks outside). There’s a stellar lineup gracing our stage, after all.

But, if you fancy grabbing your own breakfast or want to meet up with fellow conference-goers for dinner or drinks, there are plenty of local places to do so. Even if you aren’t tacking extra days onto your trip beyond the actual conference, you can hit up some local spots before and after Tuesday (remembering that both Monday and Wednesday evenings are the reception and after party nights respectively).

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

One of my favorite places is Forage. They have an incredible brunch menu and their dinner as absolutely amazing too. Another spot that is worth checking out for dinner/drinks is Vancouver Urban Winery – yum! – Michael Aagaard

A chance to enjoy it all for free

In partnership with the fine folks at Tourism Vancouver, we’re excited to offer the chance at a Call to Action Conference Vancouver getaway worth $3,500 CAD! This includes one ticket to CTAConf, $500 toward your travel expenses, and a “Destination Experience Pass” that gives you free access to the attractions listed here—plus many, many, many more. All you have to do is click below and tweet.

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

Or—if you’re not feelin’ lucky and simply can’t miss out—grab your tickets now with an additional 15% off using the code “CTAConfVancouver” at checkout. Good luck and we hope to see you in August!

The “CTAConf Vancouver Getaway!” Sweepstakes begins on June 15, 2018 at 12:00 am PST and ends on June 28, 2018 at 11:59 pm PST. No purchase necessary to enter or win. Open to legal residents of the US & Canada, excluding Quebec and British Columbia. Entrants must be of 19 years of age or older.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

Enter the sweepstakes during the promotion period online by sharing the prefabricated Click-to-Tweet on Twitter. Only one entry per individual or organization. Automated or robotic entries submitted by individuals or organizations will be disqualified. Any attempt by entrant to obtain more than the stated number of entries will void entrant’s entries and that entrant may be disqualified.

The winner will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received throughout the promotion period. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. The random drawing will be conducted within 24 hours after the promotion period. Winner will be notified by direct message on Twitter approximately within 24 hours after the random drawing. Potential winner must reply within four business days of being notified. Any winner notification not responded to may result in prize forfeiture.

Any personal information supplied by you will be subject to the privacy policy posted at unbounce.com/privacy. By entering the sweepstakes, entrants release Twitter of responsibility and agree to Twitter’s terms of use.

*Terms and conditions apply.

from Marketing https://unbounce.com/call-to-action/ctaconf-vancouver-getaway/ via http://www.rssmix.com/

#Digital Marketing

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josephkchoi · 6 years ago

Text

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

See the sea, walk the wall

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

Have your best brunch

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

Oh canyon, my canyon

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

A chance to enjoy it all for free

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

*Terms and conditions apply.

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference published first on https://nickpontemrktg.wordpress.com/

0 notes

kennethmontiveros · 6 years ago

Text

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

See the sea, walk the wall

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

Have your best brunch

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

Oh canyon, my canyon

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

A chance to enjoy it all for free

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

*Terms and conditions apply.

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference published first on http://nickpontemktg.blogspot.com/

0 notes

archiebwoollard · 6 years ago

Text

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

See the sea, walk the wall

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

Have your best brunch

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

Oh canyon, my canyon

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

A chance to enjoy it all for free

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

*Terms and conditions apply.

from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8217493 https://unbounce.com/call-to-action/ctaconf-vancouver-getaway/

0 notes

maxslogic25 · 6 years ago

Text

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

See the sea, walk the wall

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

Have your best brunch

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

Oh canyon, my canyon

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

A chance to enjoy it all for free

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

*Terms and conditions apply.

from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8217493 https://unbounce.com/call-to-action/ctaconf-vancouver-getaway/

0 notes

racheltgibsau · 6 years ago

Text

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

See the sea, walk the wall

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

Have your best brunch

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

Oh canyon, my canyon

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

A chance to enjoy it all for free

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

*Terms and conditions apply.

from RSSMix.com Mix ID 8217493 https://unbounce.com/call-to-action/ctaconf-vancouver-getaway/

0 notes

littlemarketingproject · 6 years ago

Text

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference

We’ll make it easy for you. I mean, sure, we’re biased, but hear us out. This August’s fifth annual Call to Action Conference is not only:

Less expensive than most conferences of its caliber (tickets range from $749—$999 CAD), it’s also

designed for high-impact learning: you walk away with leading-edge tactics you can actually use when you get back to the office.

But the cherry atop the already awesome two days? The conference is held in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Vancouver, BC.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Barbershop Films

CTAConf 2018 also takes place in peak sunshine season, August 27-29th. So why not mix business with pleasure?

If you’ll be around a couple extra days…

See the sea, walk the wall

No need to bring the gear—rent a bike at Yes Cycle or Cycle City Tours, two of many rental shops.

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Cycle City Tours.

Tour Granville Island: the island that’s not an island

Image: Tourism Vancouver/ Clayton Perry

Have a BBQ…on a boat!

Me, in the BBQ boat, living my best life.

Visit an East Van brewery (or two)

Have your best brunch

Image via yolks.ca.

Hit the Aquarium

Oh canyon, my canyon

Image via Tourism Vancouver

Lightning round recos for day trips and more:

Go to Queen Elizabeth Park at sunset. It has a beautiful view of the North Shore mountains and the city from west to east. The gardens are so beautiful in full bloom in August. – Jaclyn Cummings

Head up to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola! You won’t regret it. It’s very accessible for most people and the views are incredible. – Rob Bucci

I feel like the Grouse Grind is a rite of passage. But for something more mellow, I think Prospect Point at sunset is a must see! – Sunny Lenarduzzi

If you’re here for workshop and conference days only…

Here are some suggestions for excellent pre-and-post conference free time:

I loved the food at Maenam, it was so good I went twice! I also liked all the breweries in the Mount Pleasant area. – Wil Reynolds

Elysian Coffee bakes their own chocolate chip cookies in-house and they are incredible. They also have great coffee. – Rob Bucci

A chance to enjoy it all for free

Share this post via the button provided to enter for your chance at the ultimate work trip. The contest period runs until June 28th at 11:59pm PT and one entry per person is counted.

One winner will receive a $500 CAD flight voucher, a ticket to Call to Action Conference, and a Tourism Vancouver Destination Experience Pass (approximate total retail value $3500 CAD).

*Terms and conditions apply.

Work Trip Meets Mini Getaway: A Marketer’s Guide to Vancouver for Call to Action Conference syndicated from https://unbounce.com

0 notes