The wall of icy water hit me so hard that I sat unable to take my next breath – for over a minute – I’m sure of it. I am also sure our whitewater rafting guide had it in for me.
I could see it in his eyes, from the moment he handed me that ridiculously small wetsuit. I mean, who in their right mind expects any self-respecting woman to don one of those things; it outlines your fat, for heavens’ sakes.
But wear it I did, and what’s more I got back at our nasty guide.
Read on . . .
The road to Hana may be a cruel drive for those who suffer from motion sickness, but for orchid lovers, it might be the pathway to Nirvana.
Driving the road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii is a trip that can’t be committed to lightly. Replete with narrow roads and endless curves, driving to Hana is not for the squeamish.
But it is the way for orchid lovers to reach one of the prettiest places on Maui. You might even see Oprah Winfrey’s land.
Read on . . .
If you desperately need an escape from reality, and you will be traveling in the vicinity of New York City, then a visit to the New York Renaissance Faire could be the perfect fantasy tonic for you.
Located in Sterling Forest, Tuxedo (about an hour’s drive out of New York City), the Faire is one of those tourist-type memories that only get rosier with time.
Don’t think the fantasy aspect of the Faire is childish; it is not. This is adult entertainment, but kids will have a blast, too.
Read on . . .
New York City has an ample supply of police and security personnel; that’s commonly known. However, there is another type of policing official you might not know about: the “line-up police.”
If you are a theatre-lover, or a lover of the Bard’s works, and you plan to take in New York’s famous Shakespeare in the Park event, then you are guaranteed to meet the Big Apple’s line-up police.
Read on . . .
Do you like good service? How about great new products? Especially products that make your life easier?
Me, too.
And, if like me, you travel a great deal, you know that any product or service that will make your travel experience better, is very welcome. I have found at least one.
It wasn’t my first choice. It wasn’t even my second, third or fourth choice, but we are still bound for a place we’d never heard of before:
It’s a really nice place,” my travel advisor said.” But I merely shook my head.
“Where the heck is
“It’s right on the
“Yeah, but I’ve never even heard of
“Trust me,” she said. “The price is right, and you’ll love it.”
Yes, I never planned in my wildest dreams that I would be bound for
Is it hard for you or someone else you know to go traveling? Maybe you are a grandparent who would love to take a grandchild traveling, but can’t afford the expense. Or maybe you have some spare time; you like playing computer games, and you would like to explore some unfamiliar cities. Here’s a cheap solution; it’s called Big Fish Games.
The online games site offers a variety of “hidden object” games that take the player to well-known tourist spots in big metropolitan areas around the world, like Rome, Venice, Sydney, and San Francisco.
The site’s “Travelogue 360” games take players to Paris and Rome. Sydney, Australia, and San Francisco, California are featured in the site’s “Big City Adventures” games.
The games are challenging and can be easily understood by nearly any age of player. And best of all, they are fun!
“Hey, did you guys take the Experience tour yet?”
“The what?” we responded. Doug was intense with excitement. He was one of our new cruise ship buddies who happened to be visiting the Old Melbourne Gaol (jail), too.
“You have to do it. It runs every half hour, but they only take 20 people,” he added. “There’re lining up right now in front of the building.”
“Okay, thanks.” We nodded and scurried out of the somber building.
But my stomach was feeling a little queasy; I was not sure if I was up for more of this gaol’s brand of “experiences.” I had already spent an hour inside the Old Melbourne Gaol; the death masks, the whipping frame, and the horrific correctional devices employed by the gaol in its early history were not for the faint-of-heart. And mine was feeling very faint.
So, it was with a fair level of trepidation that I followed Doug’s advice and joined the queue for the Melbourne Gaol’s “Watch House Experience.”
I began to regret my decision when I met the gaol’s intimidating desk sergeant…
Read on…
Need a cab driver in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand? Try Lance — A Great Find! A Great Friend!
There he stood, a large man resembling a sea captain with his salt and pepper hair, and weather-worried complexion. Laugh lines near his eyes complemented the thoughtful pattern of wrinkles that lay horizontally across his brow; he made me think of the actor, Sean Connery.
Photo by Sheree Zielke
His cab, a small four-door white sedan, occupied the last spot in the taxi queue. We were in the town of Mount Maunganui, in the Port of Tauranga, situated on the Bay of Plenty, on the eastern coast of the North Island of New Zealand. Since leaving the ship, we had already run the gamut of at least three dozen assorted cabs, shuttles, and tour buses before espying the taxi driver who was to make our day of adventuring very special.
The cabbie’s name: Lance Calder. He told us later he had chosen not to be part of the vicious back-biting under-cutting group of taxi drivers awaiting the arrival of the cruise ship passengers on the pier. When we asked his price, he stated simply $60NZ per hour. “Not per person,” he added quickly, but “for the car.”
Photo by David Thiel
He wanted to know what we had in mind; as seasoned travelers and photographers, we told him to drive in the direction of Rotorua, and we would tell him when we wanted to stop. And that he was to avoid the regular tourist stops. That gave him pause for a moment, but only a moment.
Lance, also known by the handle, “Olddog13-1,” was very quick to learn our desires, and our sense of humour. He soon joined in our inside jokes as though he’d known us for years. As a resident of the area since birth (he was born and raised in Te Puke – not as in vomit) he navigated the roadways well, stopping to give us views of the scenery, and share oodles of insider tips on the lifestyle and cultures of the area.
We spent seven hours with Lance – and in that time we saw stinky bubbling sulphuric mud pools in Rotorua, patted a lamb at the Kiwi Lumberjack Show (farm) (ask for Thomas –a handsome young man with a mischievious nature), tasted exquisite wines at the Mills Reef Winery, paid a quick visit to the art deco style Rotorua Museum, lunched in a small café, just up from the old Whakarewarewa Thermal Village (where young boys would dive for coins thrown into the water by tourists), and we visited the Comvita bee centre in Te Puke.
We also visited the Kiwi360 kiwi farm (Lance was extremely knowledgeable in this – he took us under the kiwi orchard canopy where the fruit was hanging like grapes from vines, he pointed out the male and the female vines and how kiwis are chosen for import, with flat-sided ones being rejected and turned into wine instead.) Lance took us into the shop where we tasted our first kiwi wine (a little too much fruit flavour for our palate) and he took us to a favorite photography subject of ours, an old Mission cemetery, without ever being asked to do so.
We learned, through Lance that the huge tree with the gorgeous purple flowers is a Jacaranda tree, a soft drink is called a “fizzy drink,” a car trunk is called a “boot,” and that cruise ship passengers should never share a cab just to split the cost during shore excursions.
“It’s not a good idea,” says Lance. “The couples can never agree on anything.” He says he has never seen a cab shared successfully by people who barely knew one another, and who have gotten together just to split the cost of the taxi fare. He says the only successful shared cab rides are those where the passengers have previously agreed upon where it is they want to go, and what it is they want to do.
Besides knowing the area so well, and being a charming traveling host, Lance is also specially trained in the art of assisting the handicapped, or the ambulatory-challenged. He has extensive experience dealing with special needs children, and seniors in wheelchairs.
And if you are a wine lover, Lance has an inside track, having a son-in-law in the business. Be sure to ask him for a little advice if you are going into the Napier-Hawke’s Bay area on what wineries to see, and the best route to take to see them.
Planning a trip to the Tauranga, New Zealand area via cruise ship? Contact Lance Calder in advance. You will feel like family when this burly congenial man welcomes you at the pier. Tell him Sheree says you’ll need to buy a “Peepsi.” He’ll know what you are talking about.
Contact Lance via email at lance-calder@hotmail.com.
Cheers,
Sheree Zielke
Why Vacation in Park City, Utah?
There are 5 cities in the United States named, Park City, but only one of them plays host to one of the largest independent film festivals in the world, the Sundance Film Festival. And only one of them was home to the 2002 Olympic Games. That’s Park City, Utah.
Besides the annual film festival, Park City is highly touted as one of America’s best mountain resort towns and skiing destinations (“Home to the Greatest Snow on Earth”).
Park City is nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, which are part of the Rocky Mountain range. The Wasatch-Cache National Forest is nearby. The surrounding hills, once filled with silver and gold, turned poor prospectors into millionaires during the area’s rich mining years.
In 1870, with the discovery of gold, miners advanced on this mountainous Utah area, pickaxes and hopes of fast riches, held high. But the boom ended with the flooding of the mines.
The vibrant city was all but deserted until the 1930s when a new boom was begun: skiing. The area’s Park City Ski Club turned lemons into lemonade, or rather a deserted mine dump into a ski jump, thus planting the seeds for this modern day world class ski resort city.
Park City, once a boom town, is now populated by less than 7500 residents. The town is considered to be part of the Utah’s capital city’s metropolitan area; it is a short drive away, just 32 miles from Salt Lake City.
While Park City has been home to many cultures, the
English and the Germans settlers comprised the majority of the peoples who first chose this mountain area as their home base; followed closely by the Irish.
Park City has a moderate climate with temperatures rarely going above 85 F in the hottest summer month of the year, July. Winter temperatures demand full parkas, toques, scarves and warm mittens because below freezing is the norm in the winter months (November through March). Average snowfall is an adequate 350 inches in the resort areas, and just short of 150 inches in the populated areas. The abundance of snow makes Park City the perfect place for a snow sport or ski vacation.
But Park City, Utah has more to offer than just winter skiing; this mountain town is a popular summer destination, too.
Must Sees in Park City, Utah!
Park City Sunday Market – This fun-for-all, open-air market runs from mid-June through mid-October. Tourists will be treated to great food, fresh produce, admirable arts and crafts, and a variety of local talent including strolling musicians, bands, clowns and even, belly dancers. Sommeliers should take note because wine tasting is offered, too.
The market is easily located on Park City’s Main Street between Heber Avenue and 9th Street. It is open from 9 – 3 PM every Sunday except during the Kimball Arts Festival.
Utah Olympic Park – While no longer used for Olympic events, this park still hosts the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team, and its exhibits and activities are open to the general public, daily.
Kimball Art Center – For 30 years, tourists and locals have been treated to the finest visual arts through this city center, via a variety of exhibitions and special events.
And of course, an absolute must see are Park City’s world class ski resorts. There are three major ski hills to choose from: Park City Mountain, the exclusive Deer Valley, and The Canyons. These can be visited year round.
Museums & Theatres in Park City, Utah
History buffs and museum lovers won’t be disappointed by Park City’s collection. Everything from skiing history to the town’s mining background is amply covered by the area’s museums.
Alf Engen Ski Museum – Here’s a ski lover’s dream. Everything you wanted to know about skiing, and more, including the 2002 Winter Olympics, all housed at the Utah Olympic Park.
Real museum fans should plan a quick side trip into Salt Lake City which is accessible easily by car or bus. Utah’s capital city has over a dozen museums including the Utah Museum of Natural History, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts, the Classic Cars International Auto Museum, and the Museum of Utah Art & History.
If you have an interest in mining history, the Kennecott Copper Mine and Visitor Center is a short 28-mile ride southwest of Salt Lake City.
Back in Park City, the Mary G. Steiner Egyptian Theatre is available to those theater-oriented folks on a year-round basis; it just underwent a major renovation.
The Park City Performing Arts Foundation offers a wide variety of dance and musical performances in its 1300-seat theater.
The Park City Film Series keeps film lovers happy on Friday and Saturday nights with an eclectic blend of independent films.
Outdoor Recreation in Park City, Utah
Recreational activities are endless in Park City, regardless of season. In the winter, there are the usual activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, winter hiking, and sleigh rides.
Ski Resorts – World class skiing and snowboarding awaits the thrill seekers. Hop onboard a bus or stay in a resort to take advantage of this spectacular skiing. Choose from Park City Mountain, the exclusive Deer Valley, or The Canyons.
Golf – Park City Golf Course is located within the town limits. The course was first opened back in 1963 as a nine-hole course, but since has increased to a full 18-hole course, complete with all the expected amenities, including a Pro shop. Take a virtual tour of the course and plan your links strategy in advance.
But there are many golf courses to choose from in the Park City area: Wasatch Mountain Golf, Soldier Hollow Golf Course, Homestead Resort Golf Club, Pete Dye Canyon Golf Course, Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, or the Jeremy Ranch Golf & Country Club.
Fun-for-the-Whole-Family Activities – Utah Olympic Park – Don’t pass up the chance to see the Olympic Park. Since the 2006 Olympics, the park is now a fun zone for visitors offering a variety of activities including bobsled rides, an Alpine slide, ziplines, and aerial shows. Entrance to the park is FREE!
City Parks – If you choose to stay within the town limits, but still want to get out for a walk and fresh air, there are two city parks to choose from: South End City Park and Rotary Park. Set in the area’s beautiful mountain location, the parks are a great place to spend some family time; they both come complete with barbeque pits and picnic tables. Rotary Park has a mountain stream flowing through the property, and it is conveniently located just back of the Park City Golf Course.
Summer Recreation – How much time do you have? Park City offers many fun and exciting summer outdoor adventures including a huge number of excursions. Take part in a full or half day rafting adventure on the Provo River; go fly-fishing, horseback riding, or hiking; try river luging, kayaking or go mountain biking. Or plan a full week’s whitewater rafting excursion on the Green or Yampa rivers. And with over 90 mountain lakes, there will be plenty of boating opportunities, too.
There are guides for every sport who will see even the most uninitiated through a safe and fun experience. Even women will find their wilder side catered to with the area’s Femme Fatale adventure weekend.
Heber Valley Railroad – Train aficionados will love this 100-year old steam train. The company offers everything from a Raft ‘n Rail adventure to Murder Mysteries. Heber City is located on Highway 40, just 18 miles from Park City.
Disabled? No problem. The Park City locals want everyone to enjoy their stay and have set up special services for those needing assistance during their holiday.
Festivals, Fairs, and Concerts in Park City, Utah
Park City, Utah could be considered a world cultural capital with its summer cornucopia of festivals and concerts; the city hosts more than 3 dozen musical events every summer.
Deer Valley Music Festival – The Deer Valley Music Festival is just one of a dozen festivals that Park City offers. It runs mid July to mid August and features classical, opera, chamber and pops music.
Park City’s Jazz Festival follows in the 3rd week of August.
The Autumn Classics Music Festival is held from the end of September into the beginning of October.
Park City Winterfest 2007 – Moonlight snowshoeing, sled dog races, Alpine skiing competitions, ice carving competitions, live entertainment, and great food comprise this hugely popular 9-day winter event. The festival kicks off at the beginning of February and ends with a huge fireworks display on a Sunday evening.
Sundance Film Festival – Robert Redford, the handsome American actor, is probably the most famous name acquainted with this popular world class film fest. In fact, the festival is named after one of Redford’s movie characters, the Sundance Kid.
The festival is designed to give new independent film makers a shot at stardom; directors like Quentin Tarantino and Steven Soderbergh have the Sundance Festival to thank for their trip into the Hollywood limelight.
The festival, once held in September, is now held in January, during the peak of the skiing season. Tourists can do a double whammy this way; get their fill of film and snow with a single visit.
Kimball Arts Festival – This annual summer event takes place at the beginning of August. Crammed with family activities, a children’s play zone, a beer garden, great foods, 30 live bands, and the works of some of the top artists in the nation, the Kimball Arts Festival is well worth a visit.
Shuttle buses are the only way to get around during this time, as the Park City Main Street is closed to cars. You’ll join the 100-thousand others who attend this festival in a weekend filled with live entertainment, and 100s of art works ranging from photography to oils to jewelry.
Calendar of Events – Park City has so many festivals, they are too numerous to mention. Best to check in at the city’s Chamber of Commerce web site for current events and dates.
Dining in Park City, Utah
No shortage of food types here. Hungry diners will find everything from full 5-course gourmet fare to simpler burger, pizza, or taco menu items. Italian, Asian, Mexican, American, French? It’s all here in Park City.
But since this town is run by both its seasons and the arrival of tourists, restaurants open and close their doors at different times throughout the year. Use this dining guide when planning which restaurants you will visit during your Park City stay.
Here are some of the top-rated eateries on Park City’s Main Street and in the town’s general vicinity:
Getting to Park City, Utah
Airports
The nearest commercial airport to Park City is the Salt Lake City International Airport. Most major and some smaller airlines, like Salmon Air, fly into this major American hub airport.
You’ll need to get from the Salt Lake City airport to Park City by van or rental car. Van-sharing options are available. Prices range from $110 US to $132 US per person. Or maybe only a limousine will do? Try this link for details on all forms of transportation from the airport.
Arriving by Car
Car Travel -Be sure to check out the Utah Visitor Centers. These links may be helpful in your trip planning. Do you need a Utah Highway Map? And here is a handy Driving Distance guide.
Car Rentals – If you are used to driving, then rent a car to get around this area. Car Rentals – Some discounts are also available.
Bus – Park City is not served by major bus companies, but Salt Lake City certainly is, including Greyhound.
A light rail transit system also operated within the Salt Lake City area: the Trax. Up to date route and time information is available through the Utah Transit Authority Information site.
Train
Amtrak has regular daily stops in Salt Lake City.
Getting around Park City, Utah & Area
Park City offers free transit service from mid-April through mid-November to the outlying Summit areas, between 7:30 AM and 10:30 PM. Bus signs are blue with white letters; routes are identified by colors and times.
The city’s Historic Main Street Trolley operates daily from 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.
HOT Savings Links
Park City Lodging Deals
Utah Travel Deals
Handy Contacts
Park City Vacation Planner Guide
Book a Park City Sleigh Ride
Olympic Park Museums
Park City Map
Park City Street Map
Utah Travel Guide
Salt Lake City and General Area Map
Cheers,
Sheree Zielke
