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thisfamilylifewelive · 4 years

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Family Travel Itinerary: A Long Weekend in San Francisco

Last June 2019, our family spent my birthday weekend in San Francisco. In this post I share our long weekend itinerary exploring the City By The Bay.

Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend In San Francisco | This Family Life We Live

Day 1

We arrived on a Friday at about 11:00 am. Went to pick-up our rental car (Got a free upgrade to a Nissan Armada. Wohoo!) and was finally able to get out of the airport by 1:00 pm.

Jollibee

Since hotel check-in was not until 2:00 pm, we decided to have lunch first. First meal in SanFo, Jollibee. #Priorities Born and raised in the Philippines, it brings back good childhood memories.

There are a lot of good restaurants close to the airport though. In my original itinerary we were supposed to have lunch at New England Lobster Market and Eatery.

After lunch, we headed to our hotel to check in. We chose a hotel closer to the airport because they are way cheaper compared to hotels in San Francisco City proper. However, I won’t mention which hotel we stayed at as they didn’t fulfill my expectations. Yes, I matched my expectations to my price point affordability. Yet this hotel still did not manage to get to that level.

Once we we’re checked in and freshened up, we headed back out, this time driving towards San Francisco City proper.

Painted Ladies

First touristy stop, the Painted Ladies. A row of painted Victorian houses, also known as Postcard Row, popularized by the sitcom Full House. The painted ladies are right across Alamo Park where there is a nice playground. So after a couple of pictures, the kids had about an hour playing in the playground. Then a couple more pictures before we headed to Lombard Street.

Lombard Street

This is the most crooked road in North America. Marc parked the car on top of the street and we walked up and down Lombard street for photo ops.

It was the NBA finals at the time we visited, next game is being held in the Chase Centre. There was a red mustang convertible driving down Lombard Street bearing the Raptors flag as we we’re walking back up. I couldn’t help but yell, “Go Raptors!” #CanadianPride The occupants of the car yelled “Go Raptors!” back at least.

Marc wanted to experience driving down Lombard Street, so we piled ourselves back into the car. He drove from the top of the street all the way down. Then it was time to visit the Palace of Fine Arts.

Coit Tower

Another SanFo touristy landmark is the Coit Tower. Anybody watch the movie San Andreas Fault? Yes, that’s The Rock.

We chose to skip this place because I read a recent TripAdvisor review written by a mom, that says she doesn’t feel it was safe for young kids. Marc and I have actually been in the tower before, and yes, I wouldn’t feel comfortable taking Kaeden and Kenzie up there based on previous experience.

I did however take photos of the kids on Lombard Street with the Coit Tower in the background.

Palace of Fine Arts

By the time we got to the Palace of Fine Arts, the kids were already tired from our adventure. Kaeden had a power nap in the car while Kenzie had an extended 30 minute nap on the stroller.

We took a lot of photos while walking around the Palace of Fine Arts. I think this was my favorite part of the trip because we were just having quality time with family while taking in the sights.

Alioto’s Restaurant

For dinner that night, we had reservations at Alioto’s Restaurant, in Fisherman’s Wharf. I made the reservations online about a week before our visit.

Dinner was superb! Nothing can beat eating fresh seafood with a view of the bay in front of you.

Although, in all honestly, Marc and I still had a nightcap of Jollibee Chicken Joy. LOL

Day 2

Another reason we chose the hotel we stayed at was because breakfast was included. Nothing fancy, just your typical continental breakfast buffet spread. It prepared us for the day’s adventure.

Golden Gate Bridge

First stop of the day was Golden Gate Bridge. We left the car in the lower level parking lot and walked all the way up to the bridge. Obviously, also took a lot of pictures along the way.

You can cross to the other side of the bridge through the walkway underneath. The kids had a good time looking at the underside of the bridge. There was also an exhibit explaining the history of the bridge and the engineering design utilized for it.

No tourist tour is complete without visiting at least one gift shop. LOL We browsed but didn’t buy anything. My mom and Dad ended up buying some souvenirs. Did I mention that my mom, dad and brother were with us on this trip?

Barrel House Tavern

After spending almost half the day at the Golden Gate Bridge, we drove to Saulsalito for lunch.

On my original itinerary we were supposed to eat at Scoma’s. I mistakenly did not make reservations, and we didn’t want to wait 45 minutes for a table. So we walked up to Barrel House Tavern and had lunch there instead.

Food and drinks were excellent. Calamari and mussels hit the spot. And the kids had fun sitting on a bar-height table.

Sausalito

After lunch, we walked around this beautiful sea-side town. Marc and I had been here back in 2012. We both remember it being smaller and quaint. Fast forward several years later, it has grown a lot, possibly due to the fact that it accommodates tourists from all over the world.

Lappert’s Ice Cream

A visit to Sausalito would not be complete without trying Lappert’s Ice Cream. We treated ourselves to scoops of ice cream in waffle cones.

I love that they have different flavors inspired by places around the world. The kids definitely enjoyed their scoop of ice cream while looking out to the ocean.

After enjoying our ice cream and a long walk, we piled ourselves back into our Nissan Armada and headed back to San Francisco. The kids enjoyed nap time while in the car.

Ghirardelli Town Square

Since dinner was still a couple of hours away, we spent some time in Ghirardelli Town Square.

There are a lot of things to do here. Several stores have interactive play for kids outside. And did I mention that the Ghirardelli chocolate shop gives generous samples?!

I think the kids went back a couple of times for chocolate. LOL. Marc and I may have also gone back for seconds, we won’t confirm.

After buying some Ghirardelli chocolate packs to take home, it was time to start walking towards Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner.

Parking Tip

Since our rental SUV was quite tall, it was too high for the underground parking at Ghirardelli Town Square. So we opted to park near the park to the left of the square. There are a few spots there. However, parking is only for 2 hours. So just before we headed to dinner, Marc moved the car several spots down. There were more spots open then because our dinner reservation was booked for 7:00 pm.

Cioppino’s

For my actual birthday dinner, I made a reservation at Cioppino’s, an Italian Seafood restaurant. Because seafood and pasta, how can you go wrong?

The service was great but the food was okay. It wasn’t mind-blowingly good. Also the restaurant is slightly dated in appearance.

But the servings are massive. All of us had to take about half of our meals back to the hotel. LOL. But in all honesty the service was excellent. I wish I can remember the name of our server.

Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend In San Francisco | This Family Life We Live

Day 3

We woke up bright and early on Sunday for our day 3 adventure. We were first in line at the breakfast buffet.

Chase Centre

Marc wanted to watch an NBA finals game but ticket prices were ridiculous. So he just opted to drive up to Chase Centre for a photo op.

Security was tight though because of the NBA finals so he didn’t even have a nice photo. But at least he saw the arena. While the kids and I had some time to catch some sleep before we started the day’s adventure.

Cable Car

After we parked the car again in the same area near Ghirardelli Square, we walked over to the Cable Car station. Tickets for a 1-way trip cost $7 per adult.

We rode the cable car down to the downtown area. Kaeden and Kenzie at first were terrified, thinking they would fall off. But then they got the hang of it and enjoyed.

Downtown San Francisco

Once in the downtown area, we stopped by Starbucks for drinks. We walked around a tiny bit. There was a huge event happening, so there were too many people, and we are just not into that.

We took a few pictures and decided to head back to Fisherman’s Wharf. We lined up to take the cable car back. The line up was so long!

Senor Sisig

Luckily we spotted the Senor Sisig food truck near the line up. This is one of the most popular food trucks in San Francisco. Bonus that it’s Filipino cuisine based.

We purchased a couple of orders of sisig and happily ate lunch while lined up. The kids had Burger King chicken nuggets and fries. Everyone was full by the time we boarded the cable car.

Fisherman’s Wharf

We got off the cable car at a different spot where we initially boarded. So we left the kids with my mom & dad in Starbucks, while we walked to the car.

This time we parked the car underground in the building where Ross is. It was a $10 parking fee, but it was a hot day and the fee was for the entire day.

After we met up with my parents and the kids at Starbucks, we headed down to the pier. At the pier we purchased tickets for the Bay Cruise, this is what we plan to do in the afternoon.

Originally we wanted to go on the catamaran cruise, but with the kids, we thought the boat cruise would be less stressful for us adults. LOL.

Since our cruise time was not until 3:30 pm, we decided to walk around the Fisherman’s Wharf area, take some photos, and try the famous fish and chips from The Cod Mother’s Fish and Chips. It’s our linner! The meal between lunch and dinner when you’re on holidays. LOL.

Bay Cruise

At 3:30 pm we lined up for our Bay Cruise. It took us around the bay area, near Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge and then back to the pier. We took A LOT of photos. Like really a lot!

It was fun to just sit back, relax, and have the boat tour us around. A nice break from all the walking we’ve done so far. The kids certainly enjoyed it!

Note that we specifically did not go to Alcatraz because Kaeden and Kenzie will not appreciate it. They’d probably just be scared if we go in there. The Bay Cruise went close enough that they can see it and we can touch on the subject but not delve too deep into it.

Shopping

After getting off the boat, we headed back to the car and drove to Red Ribbon. This is a famous bakery for Filipino people. We bought a lot of pastries to take back home. There is no Red Ribbon in Canada yet.

Next stop, Target and Trader Joes. We stocked up on Trader Joe spices – Everything But The Bagel, Chilli Lime, 21 Seasoning Salute, and the coffee rub.

All of us got stopped at airport security, our baggage checked, because it was just full of spice blends. LOL

The kids were allowed to buy a $10 item in Target as a souvenir, obviously they each chose a toy.

Isla Restaurant

For dinner on our last day, we decided to try a popular local Filipino restaurant. We chose Isla Restaurant through a recommendation by my Mom’s friend.

Dinner was excellent! Definitely satisfied my Filipino taste buds. And they gave us a free dish because it was still my birthday week. Gotta love that!

Day 4

Our flight back home was at 12 pm. As usual we had breakfast at the hotel. Did a rejig of our luggage – each of us only brought one carry-on suitcase and a back pack, including the kids. So we had to distribute the pastries and spices accordingly.

Dropped off the rental car and was surprised that there was no line up at security.

We were relaxing inside the airport about an hour and a half before boarding time. So we had time to eat a mini-lunch and let the kids burn off some energy before flying back home.

I hope you enjoyed and picked up a thing or two from our long weekend family itinerary in San Francisco. If you want to see photos of our trip, head on over to our Instagram (@this.family.life.we.live). If you like what you see there, please follow us. We always appreciate new tribe members!

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torontotravelblog · 5 years

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Romantic Toronto

01 of 10 Explore Chinatown and Toronto's Ethnic Neighborhoods

Toronto is one of the world's most multi-cultural cities, and the Chinese comprise one of its largest ethnic groups.

The vast Chinatown area, centered at Spadina and Dundas Street West, radiates out and encompasses Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai restaurants and businesses in addition to the many eateries that tempt visitors with Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, and Cantonese fare.

Every few years, on the grounds of Ontario Place, Toronto's Chinese heritage is celebrated with the colorful Chinese Lantern Festival, a gorgeous display of colorful lanterns that honor China's past and future.

In addition to the Chinese, Toronto has significant populations from Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, India, Greece, and many other nations. Each has developed its own section within the polyglot city, where that country's fare is available and visitors can hear languages other than English spoken.

Toronto is also one of the world's safest big cities, so visitors who take normal precautions need not be wary about exploring its varied ethnic neighborhoods on their own.

02 of 10 Sip Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Royal York

Toronto's landmark hotel located in the heart of downtown, the Fairmont Royal York offers an afternoon tea in its EPIC restaurant.

Comfortable banquettes, tables well spaced apart, accommodating waiters, and a selection of traditional finger sandwiches and pastries make this elegant and romantic ritual a sophisticated pleasure. Reservations are recommended.

03 of 10 Visit Castle Loma

Castle Loma, designed to resemble a medieval castle in residential Toronto, opened in 1914.

It was built by Canadian stockbroker and financier Sir Henry Pellatt at a cost of about $3.5 million. Containing just under 100 rooms, it was the largest private home in Canada at that time.

Like many grandiose structures, Castle Loma has stood through its share of triumph and tragedy. Sir Henry and his wife spent fewer than ten years living in Casa Loma before financial reverses forced them to abandon the property; the flamboyant Pellatt died virtually penniless.

For the past 70 years, Casa Loma has been open as a tourist attraction. They pay a fee to enter and can take a self-guided tour. Many simply explore the fragrant and colorful Casa Loma Gardens, in bloom from May through October.

Casa Loma can also be rented for weddings that range in size from 125 to 1,200 guests and it has an in-house caterer.

04 of 10 Browse Toronto's Markets

Toronto's markets are where visitors go to savor a true taste of the city.

The two major Toronto markets are St. Lawrence Market and Kensington Market, and each has a distinct personality.

St. Lawrence Market, established in 1803, is a must-see for foodies visiting Toronto. Its main floor is filled with cheese shops, meat sellers, a fishmonger, bakeries, and delicacy purveyors. A peameal Canadian bacon sandwich or truffled mozzarella from this market will introduce your palate to new flavor sensations.

The lower level offers some ready-to-eat items and unique edible gifts, such as New Zealand honey and unusual jam flavors. Visitors may also find themselves taking away irresistible non-comestibles, such as handmade jewelry and original photographs. Find out more: St. Lawrence Market.

Kensington Market wakes up and stays up late. Vintage clothing shops, used furniture stores, multiple places to eat, art galleries and other bohemian passions comprise this multi-cultural community, which became a National Historic Site in 2006.

Kensington Market is also home to the Hot Box, a cannabis café, which is a safe environment where customers can smoke their own marijuana (it is not sold on the premises) and dine on vegan, vegetarian, and meat items such as Brain Melt grilled sandwiches and Chronic Quesadillas.

05 of 10 Try on the Bata Shoe Museum for Size

One way to know it's really love is when you can convince your other half to visit a place that doesn't seem like something he or she would be interested in. If your other half agrees, you're well on the road to enduring love, since you already know how to compromise. And if your other half goes with an open mind and ultimately finds the attraction as interesting as you do, bingo! You've got a keeper.

The Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto needs that kind of preface. It's not a typical museum. In fact, it may be the only shoe museum in the world. Three floors of shoes hold both the expected (Princess Diana's heels, Elvis' blue suede) as well as a truly fascinating array of footwear that dates back nearly as far as when man first stood upright and needed protection for his tender soles.

Wooden sandals from Egypt more than four centuries old... intricately beaded moccasins made by indigenous North American peoples... silver wedding sandals from India... reindeer-skin boots from Siberia... and embroidered silk shoes as tiny as baby booties worn by foot-bound Chinese women are all part of this fascinating collection.

If you love handicrafts and history, a visit to the fascinating Bata Shoe Museum will expose you to other cultures, countries, and times from the ground up.

06 of 10 Find Enlightenment at Toronto University

Founded in 1827 as King's College, the University of Toronto is a liberal arts school with more students, faculty, and courses than any other college in Canada.

Its venerable Gothic buildings and quads evoke the scholarly ambiance of the Cambridge and Oxford campuses in England.

Whether strolling the grounds or arranging to have a wedding ceremony in one of the public spaces, couples will find the parklike property a worthwhile place to pause on a Toronto itinerary.

07 of 10 Toast Your Romance at Toronto's Distillery District

Another one of Toronto's National Historic sites, the Distillery District is a pedestrians-only, cobblestone area along the wharf that was once home to mills and breweries.

Today the Distillery District houses shops, restaurants, an exceptional bakery, performance spaces, galleries and artists' studios, and even a day spa.

08 of 10 Sail to Toronto's Islands

A number of tour boats ply the Lake Ontario harbor, and both lunch and dinner cruises can be booked.

But the best deal in town is the Toronto Island Ferry, which offers frequent service to the Toronto Islands, a recreational greenbelt a fifteen-minute sail from the mainland.

09 of 10 Sunbathe Nude on Toronto's Center Island

Another reason to worship summer in Toronto: Nude sunbathing is allowed at Hanlan's Point Nude Beach. Take the Toronto Island Ferry over, and keep your clothes on till you hit the beach.

10 of 10 Discover More of the Romantic Side of Toronto

Romantic couples can find plenty more to see and do on a Toronto visit. Among the most popular:

Entertainment. Toronto is the entertainment capital of Canada, featuring Broadway-style musicals, renowned comedy and film festivals, and major concerts at the Molston Amphitheatre.

Shopping. With nearly 300 stores, the indoor Eaton Centre is Toronto's largest shopping mall. We're big fans of Fruit & Passions items for the body and bath, located near the entrance. For upscale brands, browse the Hudson Bay Company across the street. Holt Renfrew is another important name in Toronto retail. It has three locations in the city.

Dining. Sophisticated palates have a wide choice of fine and ethnic restaurants to choose from. Able to splurge? Make reservations at Senses in the Soho Metropolitan Hotel, the gourmet Susur Lee, the exotic Sultan's Tent, and La Maquette, voted Toronto's most romantic restaurant. For breakfast, no place beats Cora's on Blue Jay Way.

Spa and Scenic Views. Good reasons to visit the Park Hyatt: For the couples treatment in the massage suite for two at the Stillwater Spa and for drinks at the hotel's rooftop lounge.

If you want to feel on top of the world, the CN Tower provides the most panoramic vistas.

This post “Romantic Toronto” was originally seen on trisavvy by Susan Breslow Sardone

Dr. Amauri Caversan - Toronto Naturopathic Doctor

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bhtum1595world · 7 years

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Glynn Griffiths my wonderful friend, a friend as close as a brother, my touchstone in all matters of life, has died. Glynn was 67 and leaves behind his beloved daughter Georgia and Annie his soulmate.

Glynn at my book launch in the Hoop and Grapes pub just off Fleet Street, London, May 2016

Glynn had just started out on the next stage of his eventful life. He had his sculpture studio in Cheltenham where he made so many of his impossible dreams involving mother-earth and man-made come to life.

Glynn Griffiths Art Exhibition at the Parabola Art Gallery, Cheltenham, England. Work by the artist Glynn Griffiths ( seen in blue shirt, long hair ).

He recently bought a campervan before buying ‘Haddie’ his beautiful house boat moored at Hebden Bridge. For the first time in many years he had his entire ‘Art Book’ collection out of packing cases and on shelves waiting to be read….in short Glynn was chilled out and happy.

Glynn Griffiths with his daughter Georgia at his Exhibition-Growth, ‘Gravity & Balance’ at The Horse Box Gallery, 50 Grosvenor Hill, London.

Glynn Griffiths Exhibition-Growth, ‘Gravity & Balance’ at The Horse Box Gallery, 50 Grosvenor Hill, London.

I knew Glynn for nearly 30 years since he came to this country from his native South Africa with his wife Annie back in the mid 1980’s. He came from Jagersfontein a small town in the Free State and trained as a photographer on the Cape Times. Although his yearning was for the Veldt of South Africa, he was a British subject, and proud of his family roots in South Wales.

Glynn in the Canary Wharf Indy offices in the 1990’s

Glynn was an established photographer of some note in SA and upon arriving in London he had little trouble getting photographic assignments from the British press based then in Fleet Street. He started ‘shifting’ for the London Evening Standard while living with Annie in a campervan parked up on the South Bank in the centre of London. Before long a photo editor recognised Glynn’s ‘artistic photographic’ talents and suggested that his style of photography would be more suited to the newly launched ‘Independent’ newspaper.

Glynn was taken aboard the fledgling ‘Indy’ first as a freelance and then onto the staff. He covered the usual gamut of assignments for a daily national newspaper: portraits, hard news, overseas stories and soft features.

Following the Kings Cross fire tragedy where over 30 people died Glynn made one his most definitive images of Kwasi Afari Minta, who was severely burnt but survived. The picture won Glynn a first prize in the prestigious World Press Photo Awards.

Kwasi Afari Minta

In 1988, he covered the Clapham rail crash close to his then home in south London where 35 passengers died. His powerful picture was the first to cover the entire front page of the paper, Glynn had well and truly arrived and made his mark. He became known for his quiet observational intelligent photography and was trusted to make ‘something’ from nothing. In October 1989, he was sent to cover the San Francisco earthquake where over 60 died and thousands were injured. During just a matter of hours on the ground he produced a fine coverage resulting in a front-page news picture and a back-page photo spread.

Glynn covered the transitional elections in Namibia and South Africa. He spent time on Mount Athos communing with the monks and making a fine set of quiet contemplative images there but perhaps Glynn’s most recognised and almost certainly his most favoured photograph was of Nelson Mandela at his final election rally in Cape Town during the first all-race South African elections in April 1994.

Nelson Mandela photographed by Glynn and published by Gerry Brakus in The New Statesmen in 2013

Glynn was one of the sweetest most charming of men in the tough world of news photography. He made friends with most that he met…I have never heard a bad word against the man, few can be as well liked in our business.

Glynn Griffiths on the left, with on the back row, David Sandison, myself Brian Harris, Mykel Nicolaou, and Guy Simpson and Lauries Lewis in front…photographed by my son Jacob S. Harris at the Kalamzoo Club in London.

Photograph of Glynn with his Independent Newspaper photographer friends at one of our London based memory lane evenings. L-R: Back row unknown, Nick Turpin, John Voos, Glynn Griffiths,member of the band,Craig Easton in glasses. Front row: Laurie Lewis, Brian Harris, David Sandison, Kay Richardson, Guy Simpson and Tom Pilston…photographic selfie made by precariously balancing my very expensive Leica M9 on a wine bottle.

A charming quiet evening in an Italian eatery in Camden, London with Laurie Lewis on left, Glynn Griffiths, Guy Simpson and John Voos…I’m behind the camera

Glynn and John Voos catching up at yet another photographers night out in London

Independent Newspaper Foreign Desk 30th Anniversary Party at The Frontline Club, Paddington, London. 6 October 2016

A collection of photographs showing Glynn top left at the 30th Indy Foreign desk bash at the Frontline Club, with David Sandison at my book launch, at a gallery gig in east London where Glynn showed off his major piece made from nails and scorched wood and meetin’ and greetin’ at yet another opening…

After leaving the Indy in the late 1990’s to once again pursue a freelance career Glynn took up freelance picture editing and left London with his family to live in Cheltenham.

Glynn Griffiths Art Exhibition at the Parabola Art Gallery, Cheltenham, England. Work by the artist Glynn Griffiths

Specimen 1101, Beech, polypropylene rod, pyrographic markings at the Parabola Art Gallery, Cheltenham, England. Work by the artist Glynn Griffiths

Glynn Griffiths Art Exhibition at the Parabola Art Gallery, Cheltenham, England.

Glynn became frustrated with the limitations as to what he could achieve visually just by using a camera…photography per se began to bore him, photography was merely the means to an end and the end became the motive for Glynn’s next endeavour.

In his early 60’s Glynn went back to school…to Wimbledon College of Arts where he studied for an MA in Sculpture. His work involving ‘mother nature and handmade product’ was challenging to the uninitiated. His references were the deserts of his homeland in South Africa, he was excited about dry bones, a feather, a scrap of wood or iron weathered by the elements which he used in assembly’s contrasting with Perspex, cable ties, nails and hardware bought from his local store.

He sold several pieces, one piece made to order for a client in America and more through various galleries in London and Cheltenham. In the mid 2000’s he was awarded the Clifford Chance prize and exhibited in their Canary Wharf offices receiving much praise for the scope of his work.

Glynn Griffiths Exhibition-Growth, ‘Gravity & Balance’ at The Horse Box Gallery, 50 Grosvenor Hill, London.

Glynn Griffiths with his daughter Georgia at his Exhibition-Growth, ‘Gravity & Balance’ at The Horse Box Gallery, 50 Grosvenor Hill, London.

In the mid 2000’s when both Glynn and myself were going through our own personal crisis we both talked our problems through with long conversations as he commuted by motorway from Cheltenham to London…I called them our M4 chats. We started a photo-exchange where once a week we would make a photograph, print it and write something on the print about our thoughts for that day. We kept this going for over two years and I have over 100 original Glynn Griffiths photographs and drawings all signed and annotated…some of my most precious possessions.

I asked Glynn to help me photo edit my auto-biographical book in 2014-5. We spent several days in the cold of my garage going through hundreds of proof prints before getting my selection down from and unmanageable 2000 images to an almost manageable 3-400 photographs.

Glynn editing down the thousands of images to a manageable 400 plus for my book…we finally got it down to less than 200.

Some months later myself Glynn and designer Professor Phil Cleaver spent many 18 hour days and nights moving images and words around on screen and in hard copy before finishing my project at the printers. Not a bad word was said, not an argument, just complete calm…without Glynn I would still be shuffling my work about completely lost in the confusion of editing.

Glynn and ‘pooch’ editing Brian Harris’s book ’…and then the Prime Minister hit me…’ with Professor Phil Cleaver of et-al Design

Glynn at Geoff Neal Printers in Feltham, west London checking the print quality

Glynn had many who loved him: fellow photographers, editors, photo editors, his family and friends in South Africa, his drinking pals in Cheltenham, Glynn was not a drinker – preferring a half pint of beer or a glass of red wine with some good conversation and fine home cooking

Glynn Griffiths enjoying our wonderful Lasagne and several bottles of Montepulciano at our home in Thaxted…watched by his new best friend, Thelma

Glynn mellowing in our home with Thelma…the other cat

…Glynn was the arch polymath, he was a photographer, an artist, a sculptor, a cartoonist, a photo editor

Some of Glynn’s wonderfully dry wit showing through in his cartoons

…he could mend things and make things… only a month ago producing a fantastic sculptural piece consisting of a hill of bicycles that occupied a roundabout in Cheltenham to celebrate a Round Britain Cycle Race.

Glynn was just so many things…he was in fact a renaissance man through and through, with his ‘hippy’ clothes and ponytail, his grey beard and funny hat.

Striking a pose as W.G. Grace

Only a couple of weeks back he came down from Hebden Bridge in his motorhome to help me celebrate my 65th birthday in Southend-on-Sea with my partner Nikki and my son Jacob. We enjoyed the ‘best fish and chips in the world’ and walked the ‘prom’…we enjoyed the penny arcades and Glynn was happy.

Glynn with Nikki, myself and my son Jacob in Southend-on-Sea for my 65th birthday…on the prom prom prom…and in the penny arcades…September 2017

He followed us home to Thaxted and we spent the night putting some red wine away and the world to rights…in the morning I cooked breakfast, bacon, toast, eggs and baked beans. Glynn asked me why I stored my tins of baked beans upside down in the store cupboard. I replied that if the tins were upside down in store, when you opened them the beans were at the lid end and they all came out in one hit rather than having the hunt the last of the beans out with a spoon. He thought that was one of the most wonderful of ideas and in his last text to me a few days later he thanked Nikki and I for our hospitality but most of all he thanked us for showing him how to store his baked beans, he said it’s always wonderful to learn something new at 67!!

On the morning of the 16th of September I helped Glynn pack up his campervan with a case of Adnams Claret and a couple of large A2 size photographic prints from me to him as a present for all his hard work on my book. He said he was finally going to get around to reading it now he had the space and time. He drove out of the car park in Thaxted en route to the Tate Britain in London where he could park up for the weekend for free…and that was the last time I saw him.

My dear friend Glynn, I will miss you so much but I am privileged to have known you…you lovely gentle guy. RIP.

My friend Glynn Glynn Griffiths my wonderful friend, a friend as close as a brother, my touchstone in all matters of life, has died.

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charllieeldridge · 4 years

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15 Fun Things To Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Large enough to keep you busy for a week, but small enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed — Halifax may just be the perfect sized capital city. With so many places to see and things to do in Halifax, you’ll want to give yourself some time here.

There are many must-visit places in Nova Scotia, and Halifax is definitely one of them!

Wander aimlessly down the picturesque streets, while stopping to sip on tasty craft beers and dine on scrumptious seafood. Relax in one of the many green spaces, or visit a museum to learn about the history of the city, and Nova Scotia as a whole.

Whatever you’re interested in, you’ll find it among the many things to do in Halifax. We spent 5 nights in the city and could’ve stayed much longer!

Don’t Miss The Video of Things To Do in Halifax

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If you’re wondering what to do in Halifax during your trip, read on for my 15 best recommendations.

1. Walk the Waterfront

This picture-perfect spot is the prized possession of Halifax. The waterfront walkway is a pedestrian-only zone, making it a great place to get away from traffic.

Watch the locals fishing off the wharf, gawk at a docked superyacht, or pop in for some tasty snacks at the colourful outdoor food eatery — insider tip: try the beaver tails, poutine and locally made ice cream! And, don’t miss the Stubborn Goat beer garden.

This is a great place to walk any time of the day but is especially nice during the morning and around sunset.

The Waterfront in Halifax is a great place to walk

2. Go To a Festival or Event (one of the best things to do in Halifax)

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Halifax, and attending one of the many events and festivals is one of them. Whether you’re a foodie, a sports fan, a music lover, or are into the arts, there’s an event for you in Halifax.

If you’re in the city in July, try to time your visit for the TD Halifax Jazz Festival. During the beginning of July, many venues around the city are turned into outdoor concerts.

We were lucky enough to visit on a night when American artist, Common and local artist, Shad were performing at the TD stage near the waterfront. What an incredible concert!

This jazz festival is the largest in Atlantic Canada and keeps growing in popularity year by year. Tickets are affordable at around $45 CAD per concert, or you can buy a pass for the duration of the festival ($189 CAD).

Try to time your visit for the Halifax Jazz Festival!

Other events you don’t want to miss in Halifax:

The annual Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo (the world’s biggest yearly indoor show).

Ribfest which is around the end of June.

Pride Festival which is held in July.

Busker Festival in early August.

Seaport Beerfest in August.

…and so many more.

3. Cross The Harbour to Dartmouth

There are numerous neighbourhoods in Halifax. If you have a chance, get out of the downtown area and check out some of the other parts of the city.

In particular, hop on a short 10-minute ferry ride ($2.50 return) from downtown Halifax across the harbour to Alderney in Dartmouth.

Don’t miss the cool street art, fun craft beer bars, waterfront park, and the 3 km harbour walk trail. However, one of the best things to do in Dartmouth is to simply wander around and enjoy the quaint downtown vibes.

Dartmouth has some nice street art

4. Eat Seafood

By far one of the best things to do in Halifax (and Nova Scotia as a whole) is to eat fresh seafood. This province is known for its abundance of lobster, scallops, and salmon and you can’t leave the city without dining on a tasty meal.

There are numerous seafood restaurants in Halifax, but I recommend checking out the Bicycle Thief and sampling the lobster roll.

This is a great meal for lunch, as a snack or for dinner. Basically, chunks of rich lobster are tossed in a light mayonnaise, citrus, and herb sauce and placed in (and on top of) a grilled, buttery hot dog bun. Very tasty.

Another must-eat meal is at The Five Fishermen. Go for a plate of lobster with a side of garlic butter for dipping and you won’t be disappointed.

For non-lobster lovers, you can always opt for a piping hot bowl of seafood or corn chowder or a fillet of salmon grilled to perfection. Plus, there’s always the classic fish n’ chips available!

The lobster roll at Bicycle Thief is tasty

5. Hop On The Harbour Hopper (one of the more touristy things to do in Halifax)

Admittedly, at first glance, this vehicle looks pretty touristy. However, once you’re aboard, you realize just how informative and fun the ride is.

These LARC-V amphibious vehicles were used by the Americans during the Vietnam war to transport soldiers and supplies — they were able to carry 5 tons!

These days, unused vehicles have been sold to various countries to provide a unique tourism opportunity. Joining the Harbour Hopper tour is one of the top things to do in Halifax if you want to learn about the history, and enjoy a different vantage point of the city.

The narrated tour takes you through the city’s streets to see some of the major sites and parks (including the Citadel), before converting itself into a boat and floating along the coastline!

This is Atlantic Canada’s most popular tour, so make sure you get your tickets early.

The trip is only about 1 hour long, yet is very informative. Don’t forget your sunscreen, camera, and a jacket (it can be windy on the water). Click here to learn more about the Harbour Hopper and to purchase tickets online.

View of Halifax from the Harbour Hopper

6. Go To The North Of Halifax

While many people focus on Downtown Halifax, the North End is a cool, trendy district that you don’t want to miss.

Home to an African Nova Scotian population, gentrification has crept in (as it does in so many cities worldwide), and these days the North End is now predominantly a university student area.

With gentrification, you’ll now find hip craft beer bars, fusion yoga and pilates classes, an up and coming restaurant scene, and cute boutique shops.

This is a hipster area for sure with many musicians, writers, and artists calling this place home. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the city’s second-oldest building, the Little Dutch Church.

Hopefully, new emerging businesses will be mindful of hiring locals from the community, or host events that welcome everyone.

During the Halifax Explosion (the largest man-made explosion in the world before the use of nuclear weapons), the North End was hit hard, with much of the area being flattened, and numerous lives lost. Don’t miss the Halifax Memorial Public Library which was built in memory of the victims.

Needless to say, the North End is a very interesting place.

Look for bus number 320, 52 or 7 to take you from Downtown to the North End. It’s a 45-minute walk or a 20-minute bus journey.

☞ SEE ALSO: Exploring Nova Scotia – Our Experience on Canada’s East Coast

7. Relax In a Park

While city life is great, sometimes it’s nice to chill out in a green space for a while. Luckily, there are many spots in Halifax where you can do just that.

Visit the 16 acre Halifax Public Gardens, which is a very well-manicured green space. In fact, it’s the oldest Victorian Garden in North America. Apart from relaxing with a good book or a picnic, you can often find events in the park as well.

Nearby, you’ll find the Halifax Common (The Commons) which is the oldest urban park in all of Canada — it’s more of a sports and activities park. The Commons offers a baseball field, tennis courts, soccer field, and a skate park.

Finally, check out the large, 185 acre Point Pleasant Park which sits at the very southern tip of the Halifax Peninsula. This is a great spot to do some walking, cycling or running on one of the many gravel trails — with amazing ocean views! Bring a picnic and enjoy the afternoon.

Sunrise at Point Pleasant Park

8. Sample The Official Food of Halifax

Have you ever tried a Middle Eastern doner kebab, shawarma or a Greek gyro? The donair is similar to that, but with a Halifax twist.

In the 1970s after running a pizza joint, Greek brothers Peter and John Kamoulakos tried to get Haligonians interested in traditional gyros, but it fell short as the city wasn’t keen on the yogurt sauce or lamb meat. So, they put a spin on it and invented the donair.

Using Lebanese bread rather than Greek pita, beef and chicken instead of lamb, and creating a sauce from evaporated milk, garlic, parsley, vinegar, and sugar (as opposed to the yogurt-based one), the donair was born. Luckily, Haligonians took to this creation and the donair is now the official food of Halifax.

There are a few places to sample them. Johnny K’s is located on Pizza Corner which is a late-night hangout or try them at King Of Donair.

**Don’t tell any Haligonians this, but I prefer the yogurt sauce!

Eating a donair is one of the must-dos in Halifax!

9. Visit a Museum

With so much history in the city, make sure to check out one, or two, of the museums. Pier 21 is a museum showcasing immigration in Nova Scotia — both past and present.

From 1928 – 1971, nearly one million people arrived at the Halifax Seaport. At the museum, you can even search the database for your own ancestors!

During the high season, May 1 – October 31, The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is open 7 days a week from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Admission is $14.50 for adults. Click here for your tickets.

Another must-visit is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which houses numerous artifacts, ships, and a collection of items found from the sunken Titanic.

In 1912 when the Titanic sunk, Halifax was the closest major port and played a huge role in the collection of bodies and wreckage.

One hundred and twenty-one victims of the sinking are buried at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, while many of the artifacts recovered are in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

In the high season, May 1 – October 31, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is open 9:30 am – 5:30 pm, seven days a week, except for Tuesday when it’s open from 9:30 am – 8:00 pm. Adult tickets cost $9.55.

*Insider tip: visit the museum on Tuesday from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm when admission is free.

10. Try The Local Craft Beers

Halifax is making a name for itself in the craft beer scene. And, based on my personal research, I can say that sampling the beers on offer is one of the top things to do in Halifax! Whether you’re into hoppy IPA’s, heavy stouts, or light lagers, there’s a beer for you.

Garrisons brewing is located near the Pier 21 Immigration and the Seaport Farmer’s Market, making it a great pit stop during sightseeing.

If you’re into IPAs, I recommend the Propeller Galaxy IPA, a foggy, hoppy delight (try it at the Stubborn Goat beer garden). You can find Propeller Brewing Co. a few blocks north of the Citadel.

Don’t miss the Propeller beers!

Many of the other breweries are located in the trendy North End, or across the harbour in Dartmouth.

Head to Battery Park in Dartmouth to sample the Belgian inspired beers at North Brewing Company, or the small-batch production at Nine Locks.

If you’re visiting the North End, check out Unfiltered Brewing, or the Good Robot Brewing Company — which offers a taproom, pub, and events.

11. Visit The Farmer’s Market

The Seaport Farmer’s Market is the oldest, continuously running market in all of North America. Here you’ll find around 250 vendors selling a mix of produce, plants, homemade crafts, cheese, bread, jewelry, cooked meals, and more.

This is one of the best places to see in Halifax on the weekend. This is when the market will be at its liveliest — in the morning. And, keep in mind that many of the vendors appreciate it if you pay by cash.

12. Go On a Day Trip

Some of the best places to see in Nova Scotia are located just an hour or so from Halifax, making the city a great place to base yourself. And, since Nova Scotia is quite compact, getting around is a breeze.

There are lots of day trips from Halifax, here are a few suggestions:

1. Peggy’s Cove

This stunning community and lighthouse is just a 50-minute drive from Halifax. There are a few ways to get here, either by car, taxi or tour.

The drive takes you along the picturesque Lighthouse Route while stopping to enjoy the hidden bays and coves along the way. Either rent a car or join a day trip from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove. Another option is to join a tour that covers both Halifax and Peggy’s Cove.

The lovely community of Peggy’s Cove

2. Lunenburg

The UNESCO listed fishing town is a great place to visit. If you have time, spending the night is best, but many people choose to join day trips from Halifax to Lunenburg. It’s about an hour’s drive from Halifax.

3. Mahone Bay

Known for its 3 picturesque churches, this town offers great restaurants, a craft beer brewery, and many specialty shops. It’s a little over an hour’s drive to reach Mahone Bay, making it another great day trip from Halifax.

4. Wine Country

Further afield than the above 3 options, you’ll find the Annapolis Valley. Many day trips from Halifax head out to wine country on a longer tour — around 8 hours. Enjoy tastings at the wineries, a gourmet lunch, and visits to other nearby sites. Click here for details.

13. Join The Free Walking Tour

Many cities around the world offer free walking tours, which are typically run by university students. One of the top things to do in Halifax is to join the walking tour.

Starting at the top of the Citadel, you’ll meet up with your guide who will show you around the city. While walking and enjoying the sites, you’ll hear personal stories from the guides, and learn about history. Make sure you ask for their recommended restaurants and bars at the end — local advice is always the best.

From June 1 – September 1, tours run twice a day at 10 am and 3 pm. While the tour is advertised as “free”, as with anywhere in the world, it’s based on donations/tips. Typically, $10 per person is the going rate, but feel free to pay what you think is fair.

An aerial view of the Citadel

14. Watch Glass Blowing

If you’re wondering what to do in Halifax to spend a few minutes, head down to Nova Scotian Crystal and be mesmerized by the glass blowers there.

When we passed by this shop, we were immediately drawn in and ended up spending around 30 minutes just watching the whole process.

Irish immigrants brought their European glass blowing techniques with them and passed them down to the next generation. This is the only place in Canada that makes hand-cut, mouth-blown crystal items.

The colourful melted glass is spun, blown, and molded into beautiful crystal glasses, bowls, office items, wedding gifts, sculptures and more. This is one of the most fascinating things to see in Halifax.

15. Get Active

If running, walking or cycling aren’t your thing, you could always try your hand at bouldering. Located just a little bit north of the citadel, Seven Bays is a fairly new indoor bouldering gym/cafe. This is definitely a popular spot to visit in Halifax.

They offer climbing for all levels, and actually, since the walls are just 13ft high, when you’re done, you just jump down onto the thick padding or climb down the wall — no harnesses or ropes are used here.

If climbing really isn’t your thing, their cafe is a great place to grab a cup of coffee and they offer vegan and vegetarian items on the menu as well.

Where To Stay in Halifax

If you’re keen to do lots of sightseeing, your best base would be the Downtown area near the Waterfront. If trendy, hipster vibes are more your scene, then the North End might be more for you.

We stayed at the Westin Nova Scotian which is located right near the Waterfront, Pier 21, Seaport Farmer’s Market and Garrisons Brewing.

The newly renovated room was great and offered an amazing view of Georges Island and the Waterfront. The staff at this historic hotel are very friendly and helpful, there’s (paid) parking available, and you can dine at the onsite restaurant and bar.

Now that’s a room with a view!

Plus, the hotel has a fitness center, pool, salon and spa, and the Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club is located in the lobby. We enjoyed our stay here (the huge breakfast buffet was delicious).

On our second visit to Halifax, we chose an Airbnb in one of the historic homes near the waterfront. Since we had been dining at restaurants for almost 3 weeks straight, we were looking forward to cooking a couple of meals for ourselves, which is a great perk of Airbnbs. Don’t forget your Airbnb coupon code.

To search for places to stay in Halifax on Booking.com, click here.

Now You Know What To Do in Halifax!

Nick and I spent 5 days in the city and easily could have spent 10. With so many cool neighbourhoods to explore, restaurants to dine at, and craft beers to sample, you’ll never be bored here.

Visiting in the summer months will ensure you’ll be able to catch a festival (or 3), while the off-season means you’ll have the city and locals all to yourself. Enjoy the fun things to do in Halifax and let me know what I missed in the comments below.

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A special thank you to Visit Nova Scotia for making this trip possible. As always, all thoughts and opinions remain our own. Some images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

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georgesrestaurant-blog · 5 years

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A Big Year of Events at George’s In 2019

As we count the final hours of 2018, George’s Grill is preparing for another big year ahead, with a wealth of exciting events, functions and culinary delights etched into our 2019 calendar.

So, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s on the agenda at George’s restaurant in Darling Harbour in the New Year.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

As the celebrations of Christmas subside and the New Year’s festivities fade, George’s will be gearing up for the romantic event of the year – Valentine’s Day.

Each year we celebrate the international day of love in truly romantic style, with a special menu equalled only by the spectacular views and intimate ambience of our waterfront Darling Harbour location.

Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we reveal our menu for Valentine’s Day 2019 or make a booking early to secure your spot.

EASTER ENJOYMENT

Easter serves up some spectacular Sydney weather and offers the opportunity to relax in the company of family and friends.

At George’s it’s the perfect opportunity to head down to Darling Harbour and settle in for a brunch or lunch as part of a picturesque autumn long weekend.

MUM’S THE WORD

Family and food go hand in hand in Greek culture and we relish the opportunity to celebrate major family events throughout the year, kicking off with Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May.

We celebrate the event with fine fare and a festive feel and welcome the opportunity to extend our family’s hospitality to yours.

FATHER’S DAY

As spring rejuvenates the harbour city, it’s time to celebrate the patriarch of the family with Father’s Day.

Father’s Day is another occasion we mark with enthusiasm at George’s, welcoming in families for a festive lunch or dinner on the first Sunday in September.

MELBOURNE CUP

It the race that stops the nation, and at George’s it’s an occasion that draws a crowd, with Melbourne Cup one of the most popular events on our annual calendar.

Grab your workmates or catch up with your social circle as we saddle up for a fine afternoon of fashion, festivity and horse racing on November 5.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Come the end of November, George’s provides the ideal venue for corporate Christmas parties and festive season celebrations. Our chic venue offers the opportunity to party in style, with the entire business crowd catered to with ease.

FUNCTIONS AND EVENTS AT GEORGE’S

George’s may feature an exciting social calendar, but throughout the year we also welcome in guests as they host their own important events or mark family festivities.

From product launches to birthday parties, weddings, anniversaries and corporate functions, our venue offers an ideal destination for every type of function, and our friendly staff are on hand to ensure each event is a memorable success.

ABOUT GEORGE’S

Located on the King Street Wharf dining amidst the beauty and excitement of Darling Harbour, George’s Mediterranean Bar and Grill is renowned as one of Sydney’s premier eateries. Come share the Greek hospitality for which we are renowned as we serve up harbour side dining in simply stunning surrounds.

You can learn more about our function facilities here, or contact us directly for further advice.

#mediterranean restaurant sydney #Greek Restaurant Sydney

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paradiseretreats-blog · 6 years

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The Hideaway at West Beach

Overview

Santa Barbara

4 Sleeps,

2 Bedrooms,

1 Bathrooms

The Hideaway at West Beach - One Half Block to The Beach! An ideal starting point to a coastal adventure! Located just one block off the beach and 5 minutes from the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, The Hideaway at West Beach is a sleek contemporary flat in the midst of the Santa Barbara coastal playground.

Originally built in the 1930's, the triplex in which this unit resides was completely re-built in 2013 and is one of three connected units. Sleek design elements blend with classic beach themes honoring the philosophy of simple sophistication, with a playful twist incorporating whimsical art and found items from local boutiques.

The Living Room is the heart of the home, with a 65" flat screen 3D TV, comfy couch, and courtyard views. The perfect place for relaxing with a cup of coffee or glass of wine, the tranquil outdoor fountain can be heard when windows are open, bringing a little of the outside in.

Divine comfort awaits in the Master Bedroom, with great light filtering through white shutters aside a luxurious king-size bed. The second guest Bedroom with a hint of a nautical theme, is fresh and serene and features a queen-size bed. Each bedroom boasts flat screen 3D TV's and Blu Ray DVD players.

In the efficient Kitchen, the designer's choice in appliances, dishes and serving pieces echoes the practical feel of the home with a touch of style. With the smart cook in mind, everything is within reach including the Weber propane grill, and dining table just outside on the back deck. Drapes, heavy with rich natural fibers, close off the Kitchen from the hallway and bedrooms to offer sleepy pajama-clad guests a bit more privacy. Seating for four at the mid-century style oak table keeps dining very casual for breakfast, lunch and snacks. When the sun sets, landscape lighting glows outside in the courtyard to add romance for diners to linger into the night.

The enclosed courtyard and its wrap around deck, with fragrant landscaping, is a natural extension of the home with several seating locations. Dining on the deck is the cornerstone of this outside oasis, offering the perfect perch for meals, morning conversations, or family game night. Wet swimsuits and towels can dry quickly on the clever pull out drying rack on the deck too!

A visit to Santa Barbara would not be complete without exploring the city on foot. With the home's location just a half block off the ocean, Stearn's Wharf, The Harbor and local beaches are literally a stone's throw away. The palm tree lined Ambassador Park of the historic Burton Mound, is the perfect spot for a game of Bocce Ball, or a picnic under majestic shady palms. Santa Barbara's place of the moment is The Funk Zone, just a short walk a couple blocks away. This eclectic sub-culture of artisan shops and galleries, scrumptious eateries, nook wine tasting rooms and award-winning microbreweries and trendy restaurants offer something tasty and unexpected. The Hideaway at West Beach is a very special, luxury alternative to staying at the local beachside hotels that line the neighboring Cabrillo Boulevard, but with more space, fine amenities, and privacy. As the name implies, "hide away" from the busy pace of life, and settle in to a slower more relaxed stride. Not only is it a wonderful and special retreat, but with its central location, it is also a fabulous springboard to just about anything your heart desires. Kick off your shoes and put your toes in the sand. You may never go home again!

The Hideaway sits below The Lookout at West Beach and adjacent to The Cottage at West Beach, each offering the similarly unique design and amenities. All 3 units of this triplex are available through Paradise Retreats. Imagine a wonderful family reunion and rent all three!

Note: Parking for 1 car in shared double garage. There is street parking with time restrictions on the weekends. The Living Room wall of this unit is shared with the Kitchen wall of The Cottage at West Beach.

POLICIES

Summer Season rates are in effect for Thanksgiving Week & Christmas Weeks.

Minimum Nights

-3-Night minimum stay with the following additional restrictions:

High Season (Jun 17 - Sep 2)

7-Night minimum for all bookings made before May 1st.

3-Night minimum for current year bookings made after May 1st.

Thanksgiving Week (Any dates booked within the week of Thanksgiving)

7-Night minimum for all bookings made before Oct 1st.

3-Night minimum for current year bookings made after Oct 1st.

Christmas Weeks (Dec 22 - 29 & Dec 29 - Jan 5

7-Night minimum (in the fixed weeks above) for all bookings made before Nov 1st.

3-Night minimum (and flexible dates) for current year bookings made after Nov 1st.

Stays of less than 30 nights are subject to a 12% Lodging Tax + $2.20/night Tourism Tax.

$225 Cleaning Fee (14+ night stays require additional cleaning fees), Booking Fee (varies based on reservation cost).

No smoking

Not suitable for pets

No parties or events

Check-in time is 3pm or later

Check-out time is 10am or earlier

Quiet Hours are 9pm - 9am. Please be respectful of our neighbors.

Guest agrees to electronically sign a detailed Reservation Agreement.

Manager/Homeowner reserves the right to deny reservation.

Minimum Age of Person Making Reservation: 30 years or older

Amenities

Kitchen

All Stainless Steel Appliances

Fully Equipped

Freezer

Dishwasher

Microwave

Ice Maker

Coffee grinder

Coffee Maker

Cooking utensils

Spices

Toaster

Blender

Refrigerator

Gas Range

Laundry / Linens / Towels

Washer

Dryer

All linens supplied

All towels supplied

Iron, Ironing board

Recreation / Toys

Beach Towels

Beach Chairs

Beach Toys

Beach umbrellas

Boogie Board(s)

Bikes

Pool / Spa / Health / AC

Air Conditioning

Outside / Yard / Patios / Decks

Back Deck

Enclosed Patios

Gas

Barbeque Grill

Water Feature

Fruit Trees

Communications / Internet / Office

High speed Internet (wired and wireless)

Telephone

Free National Long Distance

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tonyduncanbb73 · 7 years

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The Winter 2017-2018 Restaurant Opening Guide: Boston Proper

Tacos, Thai ice cream rolls, Tiki drinks

Winter is here, but it’s not all bad: The days will start getting longer again, and some interesting restaurant openings are on the horizon. Here’s the rundown on what’s coming up in Boston proper this season, sorted by neighborhood. At the bottom, find a preview of what’s coming up beyond winter. (Looking for last season’s openings? Find those here.)

This guide will be updated periodically throughout the winter, so email [email protected] if something’s missing, and stay tuned for our forthcoming seasonal opening guides for areas outside of Boston.

Jump to:

Openings Beyond Winter 2017-2018

Back Bay

Instagram

Dishes from Tatte Bakery & Cafe, expanding to Back Bay this winter.

Anna’s Taqueria

Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston

The beloved local taqueria chain has had a Prudential Center location in the works for quite some time. It’ll be the eighth for the company, which also has locations in Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville, and Newton, as well as one other in Boston proper (near MGH). Projected opening: Early January 2018

Globe Bar & Cafe

384 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston

This longtime Boylston Street staple is just moving a little bit down the street, into the former Rattlesnake space. The original location closed on December 21. On the menu: comfort food, such as baked lobster mac and cheese, steak tips, and burgers. Projected opening: Winter 2017-2018

I-CE-NY

217 Newbury St., Back Bay, Boston

More Thai-style rolled ice cream. This company has around 250 locations in Asia, under the name I-TIM-PAD, but it’s also getting a foothold in the United States, starting with New York (hence the US name, I-CE-NY) and a few other states. At one point, it appeared that there could also be an Allston location in the works, but for now, I-CE-NY is only coming to Newbury Street. Projected opening: January 2018 (just waiting on inspections as of late December 2017)

Tatte Bakery & Cafe

399 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston

Following just a few months behind a new Fenway location, this expanding local cafe chain will open near the Public Garden next, serving up baked goods, shakshuka, and lots more. This location will be open seven days a week. Projected opening: January 18, 2018

Boston University

Facebook

Food at Life Alive in Cambridge, expanding to the BU campus this winter.

Life Alive

888 Commonwealth Ave., Boston University, Boston

The fourth location for this local vegetarian restaurant — which is also in Cambridge, Salem, and Lowell — will be in the former Panera space by BU. Projected opening: January 2018

Downtown Boston

Rachel Leah Blumenthal for Eater

The Oisa ramen pop-up will open a permanent space this winter.

Boston Chops

52 Temple Pl., Downtown Crossing, Boston

Like its big sibling in the South End, the second Boston Chops steakhouse will be in the former home of a bank, although more recently, the Temple Street space was home to a restaurant called Mantra. Expect a private dining room in the old bank vault and a table lit specifically for Instagrammers. Projected opening: Winter 2017

Magnolia Bakery

2-4 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Downtown Boston

New York’s famous Magnolia Bakery, a hallmark of the cupcake boom of the early 2000s, has been promising a Boston location for years, and now it’s almost here, opening at Faneuil Hall Marketplace. This location will serve the same menu as the flagship on New York City’s Bleecker Street. Projected opening: Early 2018

Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes [NOW OPEN]

140 Tremont St., Downtown Boston

This Texas-based burger chain has a growing local presence. It recently opened in Jamaica Plain and Berlin (Massachusetts) and expanded to the Boston Common area on the first day of winter. Opened: December 21, 2017

Oisa Ramen Slurp & Go

2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

A popular ramen pop-up is getting its own brick-and-mortar location in part of the former Place space. (The other part will be home to Tiki Rock Bar, a Tiki bar, which will have its own entrance.) There will be a dozen seats and a menu that offers three types of ramen, plus rice bowls and a small beer selection. It’s meant to be a quick, casual spot, and at least to start, it’ll only be open for lunch and only on weekdays. Projected opening: Early January 2017

Tiki Rock Bar

2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

A Tiki bar sharing the former Place space with the forthcoming Oisa Ramen Slurp & Go. Alongside cocktails, it’ll have its own menu of Polynesian-inspired dishes and sushi. Projected opening: Early January 2017

White Bull Tavern

1 Union St., Downtown Boston

This new Faneuil Hall venue will serve oysters, pizza, small plates, rotisserie entrees, and more. It’ll be open for lunch and dinner every day, plus Sunday brunch. Expect an interesting-looking interior, courtesy of Dave O from At Absolute Zero Design, who designed the eclectic Beat Brasserie space in Cambridge. Projected opening: Winter 2017

East Boston

Facebook

Batagor from Kaki Lima, taking up residency at KO Pies at the Shipyard this winter.

Craft Table & Bar

107 Porter St., East Boston

From the group behind Worcester-based coffee shop Brew on the Grid and more, Craft Table & Bar is opening in East Boston, replacing the nearly decade-old Ecco (and keeping some favorite menu items). The restaurant’s website describes Craft Table as “polished-casual.” It’ll soon have a sibling in Worcester as well. Projected opening: Late December 2017/early January 2018

Kaki Lima at KO Pies at the Shipyard

256 Marginal St., East Boston

The popular Indonesian street food pop-up will return to KO Pies, where it has popped up a lot in the past, to offer a limited menu alongside KO Pies’s standard Australian meat pie-based menu. Kaki Lima dishes will be available from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Projected opening: January 17, 2018

Fenway

Facebook

Food from Cafe Landwer, coming to Audubon Circle this winter — and later, Cleveland Circle.

Cafe Landwer

900 Boylston St., Audubon Circle/Fenway, Boston

This will be the first United States location for the Israeli cafe chain, which serves shakshuka, pizza, Mediterranean foods, and more. (There’s also one in the works for Cleveland Circle in Brighton — as well as one up in Toronto.) Projected opening: Winter 2017

Cava

1350 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

This rapidly expanding DC-based fast-casual Mediterranean chain is also coming to Back Bay, Hingham, and Dedham, but Fenway is slated to be the first of the group to open. Projected opening: January 2018

Fort Point

Nick DiNatale for Eater

The original Newton location of Hopsters, which is expanding to Fort Point this winter.

Hopsters

51 Sleeper St., Fort Point, Boston

This Newton-based brewery — which allows customers to brew their own beers — will expand to Boston’s Fort Point neighborhood with a brewery and restaurant. Hopsters also operates a beer shop in the Boston Public Market. Projected opening: January 2018

Jamaica Plain

Facebook

Bagel sandwiches from Exodus Bagels, opening a storefront in JP this winter.

Evergreen Eatery

154 Green St., Jamaica Plain, Boston

From the owners of JP Seafood Cafe comes a farm-to-table restaurant serving classic American diner food with some Latin, Caribbean, and Asian influences. There’ll be an express coffee and juice bar for customers in a hurry. Projected opening: Mid-January 2017

Exodus Bagels

3346 Washington St., Jamaica Plain, Boston

This popular pop-up had a Roslindale brick-and-mortar in the works for a while, but plans have shifted — that space will remain the Exodus kitchen, but the first Exodus storefront will be in the former Canto 6 space in JP. Projected opening: Mid-to-late January 2017

Juicygreens

57 South St., Jamaica Plain, Boston

This Jamaica Plain juice bar, located in the former Harvest Co-op space on South Street, will also serve toasts, salads, acai bowls, and more, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available. Projected opening: January 2018

Mission Hill

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Tacos from Chilacates, opening its third and fourth locations in 2018.

Chilacates

The Tremont, 1480 Tremont St., Mission Hill, Boston

This acclaimed Jamaica Plain taqueria duo will open a third location, this time in Mission Hill. (It’s also expanding to Chestnut Hill in 2018.) Projected opening: Early 2018

Roslindale

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A bag of boiled seafood at growing local chain Shaking Crab, which is not related to the forthcoming Shaking Seafood.

Shaking Seafood

19 Poplar St., Roslindale, Boston

Another Vietnamese-Cajun seafood boil restaurant, which are growing in popularity in Boston. Projected opening: January 2018

Seaport District

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The forthcoming D’s Keys Dueling Pianos and Singalong Bar space at Element by Westin.

75 on Courthouse Square

60 Seaport Blvd., Seaport District, Boston

This will be the latest in a group that includes 75 Chestnut and 75 on Liberty Wharf, as well as Boston’s two Cheers locations and Hampshire House. It will be located in a Seaport complex that includes a Kings Bowl and Tuscan Kitchen, and it’ll serve American comfort food. Projected opening: January 2018

D’s Keys Dueling Pianos and Singalong Bar

391 D St., Seaport District, Boston

A dueling piano bar from dueling piano bar veterans. Projected opening: Early 2018

South Boston

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Food from the original Southie location of My Diner, which is coming back to the neighborhood this winter.

My Diner

455 E 1st St., South Boston

After development forced My Diner to leave South Boston after more than a decade, it reopened in Melrose. Now, it’ll expand from Melrose back to a new South Boston location. Projected opening: EarlyJanuary 2018

Shredded

246 W. Broadway, South Boston

Salads and noodle bowls. Think Sweetgreen, but locally owned. Projected opening: Winter 2018

South End

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Pastries from Mistral, which could get a Lyonnaise sibling, Bar Lyon, this winter.

Bar Lyon

1750 Washington St., South End, Boston

The newest restaurant from the Columbus Hospitality Group (Mistral, Mooo…., Ostra, etc.) will feature Lyonnaise cuisine, from duck confit to saucisson, complemented by an all-French wine list. The restaurant, located a block from Toro in the South End, will seat around 60, making it fairly small compared to the rest of the group’s venues. Projected opening: Winter 2018

Bootleg Special

400 Tremont St., South End, Boston

This restaurant will feature Cajun-style boiled seafood dishes, not to mention crawfish poutine, po’ boys, beignets, and more. Projected opening: Mid-January 2018

Southern Proper

The Girard, 600 Harrison Ave., South End, Boston

A Southern (“but not kitschy”) restaurant located in a new South End development. Jason Cheek (Sam’s, Toro, KO Prime) is behind it. There may be some barbecue on the menu, but it “won’t be a barbecue joint.” Projected opening: Winter 2018

West End

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A meal from Tasty Burger, expanding to the West End this winter.

Hurricane’s at the Garden

150 Canal St., West End, Boston

Hurricane O’Reilly’s was recently sold by the Glynn Hospitality Group to the Briar Group, and while it will remain open during its rebranding process (including some renovations), it’ll celebrate a grand reopening under its new name, Hurricane’s at the Garden, in early 2018. Projected opening: Mid-January 2018

Tasty Burger

1 Nashua St., West End, Boston

This local burger chain is expanding again, this time opening in Boston’s West End — right by TD Garden — this winter. This location will serve beer and wine. Projected opening: Winter 2017

Openings Beyond Winter 2017-2018

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A spread of food from Brato Brewhouse, which has been popping up around town and will open a Brighton location in 2018.

6 West Broadway hotel restaurant and rooftop bar (6 West Broadway, South Boston): Part of Meyer Jabara Hotels, this forthcoming South Boston hotel will have a restaurant as well as a rooftop bar. Projected opening: Early 2019

Akinto (1 Appleton St., South End, Boston): Once a residency at Wink & Nod, this Southeast Asian restaurant will eventually open in the former Merrill & Co. space next to Wink & Nod. It’s been in the works for quite some time. Projected opening: Unknown

Alcove (100 Lovejoy Wharf, Waterfront, Boston): Longtime Boston restaurant industry vet Tom Schlesinger-Guidelli (Island Creek Oyster Bar and more) is opening his own place within the Lovejoy Wharf condo building near TD Garden. Projected opening: Spring 2018

Backlash Beer Co. (152 Hampden St., Roxbury, Boston): This longtime contract brewer is in the process of opening up its own brewery and taproom. Retail sales began in September 2017, but there’s more permitting and construction that has to happen before the taproom debuts. Projected opening: Unknown

Backyard Betty’s (172-174 W. Broadway, South Boston): A forthcoming Southie restaurant that is apparently related to Publico. Projected opening: Unknown

Bartaco (25 Thompson Pl., Fort Point, Boston): This East Coast chain is Barcelona Wine Bar’s more casual counterpart and serves tacos, rice bowls, poke, and more, along with a tequila-heavy booze selection. Projected opening: Unknown

Blue Bottle (Unknown address in Back Bay, plus three other locations in or near Boston): This Californian coffee chain has five locations in the works — a Harvard Square one that is expected to open in winter 2017-2018, plus one in Back Bay and three other mystery locations. Projected opening: Unknown

Boston’s Restaurant & Sports Bar (1124 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston and another yet-to-be-announced location): The Canadian pizza-focused sports bar chain named for Boston is expanding to Boston; there are two forthcoming locations, one right by Berklee and not far from Fenway. Projected openings: The Fenway location will open in June 2018; the mystery location is slated for 2020

Brato Brewhouse & Kitchen (190 North Beacon St., Brighton, Boston): The forthcoming brewpub from Cambridge Brewing Company alums will be located not too far from the new Boston Landing development. Projected opening: Sometime in 2018; meanwhile, Brato is hosting a number of pop-up events

Burro Bar (1357 Washington St., South End, Boston): The latest from the Alpine Restaurant Group (Painted Burro, Posto, and more) will be a second Burro Bar location, taking over the La Motta’s space. There’s another Burro Bar in Brookline’s Washington Square. Projected opening: Unknown; La Motta’s is closing December 31, 2017

Cafe Landwer (Yet-to-be-announced address in Cleveland Circle, Brighton, Boston): This will be the second United States location for the Israeli cafe chain, which serves shakshuka, pizza, Mediterranean foods, and more. (First, it’ll open in Audubon Circle in winter 2017-2018. There’s also a Toronto, Canada location in the works.) Projected opening: April 2018

Carrot Flower (703 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, Boston): Juices, smoothies, soups, nut milks, and more. Projected opening: Spring 2018

Cava (667 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston): This rapidly expanding DC-based fast-casual Mediterranean chain is also coming to Fenway (January 2018), Hingham (February 2018), and Dedham (February 2018). Projected opening: Later in 2018, after the other locations

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston): The upscale steakhouse chain, which has a Boston location in the Seaport District, will expand to the Pru’s ground floor with a massive 17,000-square-foot location that will seat 450. There will be a seasonal patio as well. Projected opening: Second half of 2018

Democracy Brewing (35 Temple Pl., Downtown Crossing, Boston): A worker-owned brewpub opening in the historic Windsor Button space. It’ll have a tasting room and event space, and the team plans to distribute to bars and restaurants. Projected opening: April 2018

Distraction Brewing Company (2 Belgrade Ave., Roslindale, Boston): A new brewery will take over the corner space that was once home to an Emack & Bolio’s ice cream shop. Projected opening: Spring 2018

Dos Toros Taqueria (Unknown location): New York-based, Northern California-inspired taqueria chain Dos Toros has lots of expansion planned — and Boston’s on its list. Projected opening: Unknown

Eddie V’s (800 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston): This national seafood chain is taking over the former P.F. Chang’s space at the Prudential Center. Projected opening: Unknown

Feng Shui (1924 Beacon St., Cleveland Circle, Brighton, Boston): Sushi, hibachi, and Chinese food from a restaurant group with locations in Chelmsford, Waltham, Cohasset, and Tyngsborough. (It’ll open in Burlington eventually as well.) Projected opening: Unknown

Gyu-Kaku (101 Allstate Rd., Dorchester, Boston): An international Japanese barbecue chain with hundreds of locations (including one in Brookline and one in Cambridge) will expand to Dorchester’s under-development South Bay Town Center. Projected opening: Unknown

The Halal Guys (Multiple locations): The New York City chain debuted in Boston’s Theatre District in late summer 2017. Coming up next: locations in the Financial District, West End, Back Bay, and Downtown Crossing (as well as Cambridge’s Porter Square). Exact addresses and opening timelines haven’t been announced yet. Projected openings: Unknown

J.P. Licks (101 Allstate Rd., Dorchester, Boston): The Jamaica Plain-based ice cream chain will open a new location at the under-development South Bay Town Center in Dorchester. Projected opening: Unknown

Kamakura (150 State St., Downtown Boston): Contemporary kaiseki cuisine — high-end, multi-course meals featuring seasonal ingredients — from Youji Iwakura (Snappy Ramen, Uni, Basho). Projected opening: Unknown

La Colombe (250 West Newton St., Back Bay, Boston): The Philadelphia-based coffee roaster and cafe chain already has two Boston locations (in the Leather District and the Seaport District), and a Back Bay one is coming up next. Projected opening: Unknown

La Dolda (Unknown address): Formerly an Austin pasta shop, La Dolda is coming up to Boston. It’ll begin as a wholesale business, but the owner plans to open a retail shop and hopefully a small pasta bar at some point in the future. Projected opening: Unknown timeline for the shop and pasta bar, but the wholesale business could start in winter 2017-2018, with owner Matteo Gallizio calling summer 2018 the “worst-case scenario”

Midici (101 Allstate Rd., Dorchester, Boston): This Neapolitan pizza chain has one location on the verge of opening in Somerville and will eventually expand to Dorchester as well, part of the under-development South Bay Town Center. Projected opening: Unknown

Minigrow (Yet-to-be-announced address): A streamlined sibling to Philly-based stir-fry chain Honeygrow, which now has two Boston locations. Projected opening: Early 2018

New Yorker Fried Chicken (1251 River St., Hyde Park, Boston): A slightly renamed chicken takeout spot, under new ownership. The old ownership had a bit of a fraud scandal. Projected opening: Unknown

Nourish Your Soul (282 Cambridge St., Beacon Hill, Boston): A juice bar with locations in West Medford and Winchester is expanding to Beacon Hill with smoothies, coffee, chia pudding, toasts, and more. Projected opening: Unknown

Orá Trattorizza (655 Boylston St., Back Bay, Boston): A two-floor trattoria/pizzeria from the owner of Piattini Wine Cafe on Newbury Street. Projected opening: Unknown

Pig ‘N Whistle Diner (226 N. Beacon St., Brighton, Boston): A diner that has been closed for 15 years might get resurrected without too many changes. Projected opening: Unknown

The Quiet Few (331 Sumner St., East Boston): A casual restaurant and bar slated for the space briefly occupied by East Boston Kitchen in 2014 (and vacant since then). Projected opening: Unknown

Sam Adams (60 State St., Downtown Boston — maybe): After the fall 2017 debut of a taproom at its longtime JP location, Sam Adams is eyeing potential downtown Boston locations for another taproom, including the former Hillstone space on State Street. Nothing is set in stone yet. Projected opening: Unknown

Santeria (10 Post Office Sq., Financial District, Boston): A restaurant, cigar bar, and members-only club from the team behind Yvonne’s, Ruka, and Lolita. Projected opening: Unknown

Shaking Crab (140 Boylston St., Theatre District, Boston): This growing local chain that features Cajun-style boiled seafood will open in the original Troquet space on the edge of the Common. (It also expanded to Cambridge’s Porter Square in fall 2017, and Brookline’s Coolidge Corner will get a location too.) Projected opening: Unknown

The Sip & Spoke Bike Kitchen (611 Columbia Rd., Uphams Corner, Dorchester, Boston): Repair your bike; drink coffee. Projected opening: Unknown

Soup Shack (779 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, Boston): Replacing Kamado Super Fusion and serving Asian noodle soups. Projected opening: Unknown

Spyce (241 Washington St., Downtown Crossing, Boston): A restaurant with a robotic kitchen. Acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud is an advisor on the project. Projected opening: Spring 2018

The Westland (10 Westland Ave., near Symphony Hall, Boston): From the group behind Hopewell Kitchen & Bar, the Avenue, and more comes a “classic American tavern” in the long-vacant Symphony 8 space. Projected opening: “Soon”

Time Out Market (401 Park Dr., Fenway): The Landmark Center is being converted into a new development, 401 Park Drive, which will be home to a food hall with roots in Lisbon. (A Miami location will open in 2018.) Time Out Market is owned by the same company behind Time Out media entities. Vendors have not yet been announced, but they’ll reportedly be local. Projected opening: 2019

Xi’an Famous Foods (Location unknown): The popular New York City-based restaurant group known for its Xi’an-style hand-pulled noodles has been talking about Boston expansion since 2016. As of November 2017, a Boston-area lease is almost finalized. Projected opening: Unknown

Xi’an Street Foods (182 Brighton Ave., Allston, Boston): No relation to Xi’an Famous Foods, but presumably more Xi’an cuisine, which may include hand-pulled noodles, a lamb and flatbread stew, and flatbread “burgers.” Projected opening: Unknown

Wahlburgers (101 Allstate Rd., Dorchester, Boston): The Wahlbergs are finally coming home to Dorchester, bringing their ever-expanding burger chain to their hometown. It’ll be at the new South Bay Town Center development, along with several other restaurants. Projected opening: Unknown

Wild Pops (3212 Washington St., Jamaica Plain, Boston): This popsicle pop-up can be found at various events and locations around town, but at some point in 2018, its previously seasonal storefront will reopen — and stay open year-round. Projected opening: Spring or summer 2018

Zuma (1 Dalton St., Back Bay, Boston): A London-based upscale Japanese restaurant that draws inspiration from izakayas and serves sushi, robata grill dishes, and more. It’ll be located in the One Dalton building. Projected opening: Unknown

Unnamed Chris Parson project (Location unknown): In partnership with Brian Lesser, Steel & Rye’s Chris Parsons will open a restaurant at an upcoming Boston hotel. The duo also recently launched a boozy business called Speakeasy Imports. Projected opening: Unknown

Unnamed Emerald Lounge replacement at the Revere Hotel (200 Stuart St., Downtown Boston): The five-year-old Emerald Lounge closed in December 2017, and it will be replaced by a yet-unnamed restaurant that the hotel says “will be the next phase of the property’s recent multi-million dollar transformation and will be an iconic destination inspired by the city of Boston’s rich history and innovative spirit.” Projected opening: Spring 2018

Unnamed Kristin Canty project (In a new development at the former Anthony’s Pier 4 space, Seaport District, Boston): A farm-to-table project from the team behind Woods Hill Table in Concord. Projected opening: 2019

Unnamed Liquid Art House replacement (100 Arlington St., Back Bay, Boston): Liquid Art House will transform into a new concept after renovations, possibly with a new name. (It closed in mid-November.) A future West End location might be in the works as well. Projected openings: Unknown

Unnamed Tavistock Restaurant Collection project (88-91 Commercial Wharf East, Waterfront, Boston): The group behind Joe’s American, Atlantic Fish, and Abe & Louie’s has purchased a burned out space on Commercial Wharf, right by one location of Joe’s, but has not yet announced details regarding what they plan to open there.

Unnamed Tim Maslow projects (Locations unknown): As promised, Tim Maslow — chef-owner of the now-defunct Ribelle — will eventually open something (or two somethings) in Boston, although he’s currently helping out with two openings up in Maine. In partnership with Brian Lesser, he’s reportedly finalizing two Boston locations for new restaurants. Projected openings: Unknown

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thisfamilylifewelive · 5 years

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Family Itinerary: A Long Weekend in San Francisco

Last June, our family spent my birthday weekend in San Francisco. In this post I share our long weekend itinerary exploring the City By The Bay.

Day 1

We arrived on a Friday at about 11:00 am. Went to pick-up our rental car (Got a free upgrade to a Nissan Armada. Wohoo!) and was finally able to get out of the airport by 1:00 pm.

Jollibee

Since hotel check-in was not until 2:00 pm, we decided to have lunch first. First meal in SanFo, Jollibee. #Priorities Born and raised in the Philippines, it brings back good childhood memories.

There are a lot of good restaurants close to the airport though. In my original itinerary we were supposed to have lunch at New England Lobster Market and Eatery.

Once we we’re checked in and freshened up, we headed back out, this time driving towards San Francisco City proper.

Painted Ladies

Lombard Street

This is the most crooked road in North America. Marc parked the car on top of the street and we walked up and down Lombard street for photo ops.

Coit Tower

Another SanFo touristy landmark is the Coit Tower. Anybody watch the movie San Andreas Fault? Yes, that’s The Rock.

I did however take photos of the kids on Lombard Street with the Coit Tower in the background.

Palace of Fine Arts

By the time we got to the Palace of Fine Arts, the kids were already tired from our adventure. Kaeden had a power nap in the car while Kenzie had an extended 30 minute nap on the stroller.

We took a lot of photos while walking around the Palace of Fine Arts. I think this was my favorite part of the trip because we were just having quality time with family while taking in the sights.

Alioto’s Restaurant

For dinner that night, we had reservations at Alioto’s Restaurant, in Fisherman’s Wharf. I made the reservations online about a week before our visit.

Dinner was superb! Nothing can beat eating fresh seafood with a view of the bay in front of you.

Although, in all honestly, Marc and I still had a nightcap of Jollibee Chicken Joy. LOL

Day 2

Another reason we chose the hotel we stayed at was because breakfast was included. Nothing fancy, just your typical continental breakfast buffet spread. It prepared us for the day’s adventure.

Golden Gate Bridge

First stop of the day was Golden Gate Bridge. We left the car in the lower level parking lot and walked all the way up to the bridge. Obviously, also took a lot of pictures along the way.

Barrel House Tavern

After spending almost half the day at the Golden Gate Bridge, we drove to Saulsalito for lunch.

Food and drinks were excellent. Calamari and mussels hit the spot. And the kids had fun sitting on a bar-height table.

Sausalito

Lappert’s Ice Cream

You can’t visit Sausalito and not make your way to Lappert’s Ice Cream Shop. We treated ourselves to scoops of ice cream in waffle cones.

I love that they have different flavors inspired by places around the world. The kids definitely enjoyed their scoop of ice cream while looking out to the ocean.

After enjoying our ice cream and a long walk, we piled ourselves back into our Nissan Armada and headed back to San Francisco. The kids enjoyed nap time while in the car.

Ghirardelli Town Square

Since dinner was still a couple of hours away, we spent some time in Ghirardelli Town Square.

There are a lot of things to do here. Several stores have interactive play for kids outside. And did I mention that the Ghirardelli chocolate shop gives generous samples?!

I think the kids went back a couple of times for chocolate. LOL. Marc and I may have also gone back for seconds, we won’t confirm.

After buying some Ghirardelli chocolate packs to take home, it was time to start walking towards Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner.

Parking Tip: Since our rental SUV was quite tall, it was too high for the underground parking at Ghirardelli Town Square. So we opted to park near the park to the left of the square. There are a few spots there. However, parking is only for 2 hours. So just before we headed to dinner, Marc moved the car several spots down. There were more spots open then because our dinner reservation was booked for 7:00 pm.

Cioppino’s

For my actual birthday dinner, I made a reservation at Cioppino’s, an Italian Seafood restaurant. Because seafood and pasta, how can you go wrong?

The service was great but the food was okay. It wasn’t mind-blowingly good. Also the restaurant is slightly dated in appearance.

But the servings are massive. All of us had to take about half of our meals back to the hotel. LOL. But in all honesty the service was excellent. I wish I can remember the name of our server.

Day 3

We woke up bright and early on Sunday for our day 3 adventure. We were first in line at the breakfast buffet.

Chase Centre

Marc wanted to watch an NBA finals game but ticket prices were ridiculous. So he just opted to drive up to Chase Centre for a photo op.

Cable Car

After we parked the car again in the same area near Ghirardelli Square, we walked over to the Cable Car station. Tickets for a 1-way trip cost $7 per adult.

We rode the cable car down to the downtown area. Kaeden and Kenzie at first were terrified, thinking they would fall off. But then they got the hang of it and enjoyed.

Downtown San Francisco

Once in the downtown area, we stopped by Starbucks for drinks. We walked around a tiny bit. There was a huge event happening, so there were too many people, and we are just not into that.

We took a few pictures and decided to head back to Fisherman’s Wharf. We lined up to take the cable car back. The line up was so long!

Senor Sisig

Luckily we spotted the Senor Sisig food truck near the line up. This is one of the most popular food trucks in San Francisco. Bonus that it’s Filipino cuisine based.

We purchased a couple of orders of sisig and happily ate lunch while lined up. The kids had Burger King chicken nuggets and fries. Everyone was full by the time we boarded the cable car.

Fisherman’s Wharf

We got off the cable car at a different spot where we initially boarded. So we left the kids with my mom & dad in Starbucks, while we walked to the car.

This time we parked the car underground in the building where Ross is. It was a $10 parking fee, but it was a hot day and the fee was for the entire day.

After we met up with my parents and the kids at Starbucks, we headed down to the pier. At the pier we purchased tickets for the Bay Cruise, this is what we plan to do in the afternoon.

Originally we wanted to go on the catamaran cruise, but with the kids, we thought the boat cruise would be less stressful for us adults. LOL.

Bay Cruise

At 3:30 pm we lined up for our Bay Cruise. It took us around the bay area, near Alcatraz, under the Golden Gate Bridge and then back to the pier. We took A LOT of photos. Like really a lot!

It was fun to just sit back, relax, and have the boat tour us around. A nice break from all the walking we’ve done so far. The kids certainly enjoyed it!

Shopping

Next stop, Target and Trader Joes. We stocked up on Trader Joe spices – Everything But The Bagel, Chilli Lime, 21 Seasoning Salute, and the coffee rub.

All of us got stopped at airport security, our baggage checked, because it was just full of spice blends. LOL

The kids were allowed to buy a $10 item in Target as a souvenir, obviously they chose a toy.

Isla Restaurant

For dinner on our last day, we decided to try a popular local Filipino restaurant. We chose Isla Restaurant through a recommendation by my Mom’s friend.

Dinner was excellent! Definitely satisfied my Filipino taste buds. And they gave us a free dish because it was still my birthday week. Gotta love that!

Day 4

Dropped off the rental car and was surprised that there was no line up at security.

We were relaxing inside the airport about an hour and a half before boarding time. So we had time to eat a mini-lunch and let the kids burn off some energy before flying back home.

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gessvhowarth · 7 years

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Where To Eat Indian Breakfasts And Brunches In London

Cinnamon Soho's parathas with fried eggs, tomatoes and pomegranate raita. Ever visited London’s Indian restaurants for breakfast or brunch? You’ll find fluffy dosas from South India, substantial parathas from Punjab, an impressive array of Parsi egg dishes, plus a Brit-Asian modern classic: the full English with extra masala and added oomph. So don’t confine Indian food to dinnertime; wake up your palate with these morning restaurant menus. The Cinnamon Club Cinnamon Club's smoked haddock kedgeree. Chef Vivek Singh’s smart, ground-breaking venue was one of the first to serve a separate Indian breakfast menu. The current offerings are more eclectic than the early days; enjoy Indian-style scrambled eggs with paratha (flatbreads), spiced omelette, and classic Anglo-Indian kedgeree with smoked haddock and poached egg. To drink, there’s breakfast bellini, a small selection of carefully chosen teas, and freshly squeezed juices. The Cinnamon Club, The Old Westminster Library, 30-32 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU. Breakfast: Monday-Friday, 7.30am-10am. Dishoom Dishoom's 'kejriwal': fried eggs on chilli cheese toast. Styled after the retro Parsi-owned cafés of Bombay, this popular mini-chain was arguably the first to make Londoners really sit up and take notice of Indian breakfast dishes. Much has already been written about its legendary bacon naan roll — but don’t miss the delicious Parsi-style egg dishes. There are spicy omelettes and scrambled eggs, plus chicken mince and liver topped with fried eggs — or try fried eggs on chilli cheese toast. No daytime visit to a Parsi café would be complete without hot buttered buns to dip into masala chai. You’ll also find chargrilled toast with spiced jams, and ‘the big Bombay’ – an urban Indian twist on the full English. Raise a glass to breakfast lassi, breakfast cocktails, and a selection of colourful juices. Dishoom King’s Cross, 5 Stable Street, N1C 4AB. Breakfast: Monday-Friday, 8am- 11.45am; Saturday-Sunday 9am-11.45am. Other branches in Covent Garden, Shoreditch and Carnaby. Jikoni Jikoni's delightfully retro interior. Looking like an Indian Aunty-ji’s front parlour (in a good way), Ravinder Bhogal’s Marylebone restaurant is a far cry from the gentlemen’s club décor of many Indian restaurants. We love its charmingly domestic look, with block-printed tablecloths, mismatched mirrorwork cushions, and beautiful crockery. This is where we would host the ‘kitty party’ of our dreams (Indian housewives’ social gatherings that are similar to 1950s bridge parties). The weekend brunch menu is a breath of fresh air. Imaginative dishes on a regularly changing menu may include parathas, pancakes, and Bombay sandwiches, yes, but also mutton keema sloppy joes, fenugreek waffles and spicy fishcakes. Don’t miss handvo (savoury lentil and vegetable 'cake') if it’s on the menu – it’s rarely seen outside a Gujarati mama’s kitchen. Save room for the delicious breakfast cocktails, Lalani teas, and desserts, too. The highly original menu has influences from around India, South Asia, Kenya and the Middle East, reflecting Bhogal’s cosmopolitan upbringing and travels. Jikoni, 19-21 Blandford Street, W1U 3DH. Brunch: Saturday-Sunday from 10am. Jikoni's mutton keema sloppy joe. Cinnamon Soho Many Bollywood films feature a long-lost son returning from abroad – and the first thing the mother will invariably do is whip up aloo paratha for breakfast. You can indulge your cinematic fantasy (and north Indian home-style food cravings) with this restaurant’s excellent paratha menu. In addition to the potato paratha of Bollywood dreams, there’s a choice of other fillings; white mooli radish, cauliflower, minced lamb, or coconut and jaggery. Why not try a little bit of everything with the ‘big kitchen mash-up’ (or its delicious veggie equivalent) — a spicy take on the full English. Other dishes include kedgeree, spiced mushrooms on sourdough toast, and masala omelette on a brioche bun. There are a few sweets like Malabar plum cake; plus a great selection of breakfast drinks, including lassi, cocktails, coconut water, juices and champagne. Cinnamon Soho, 5 Kingly Street, W1B 5PF. Breakfast: Monday-Saturday 9am-11.30am; brunch: Sunday 11am-5pm. Dishoom's chicken mince and liver keema with fried eggs and Parsi-style shoestring fries. Chandni Chowk If you’re still drooling at the thought of Punjabi paratha for breakfast, this no-frills Southall eatery – whose name translates rather romantically as ‘moonlight plaza’ – is another great option. There’s a wide selection here, including fenugreek leaves and paneer fillings. Other typical breakfast items include halwa chana puri (chickpea curry with fried puffy breads and semolina pudding), and chana bhatura (another type of chickpea curry with large fried puffy breads). The food is substantial and some of the dishes are rich with ghee, but they’re marvellously rustic and flavoursome. Chandni Chowk, 106 The Broadway, Southall, UB1 1QF. Open daily from 9am. La Porte des Indes The meaty mains section of La Porte Des Indes' Sunday brunch. Photo: Sejal Sukhadwala. Notable for its extravagant colonial-style décor complete with spectacular palm trees, wicker chairs and water features, this long-established restaurant is renowned for its Sunday jazz brunch. It’s a £35 self-service buffet, with drinks and hot naan brought to the table. Starters and desserts are laid out on the ground floor, and the mains on the first. There are lots of snacks, street food items, curries, dahl and sweets to choose from. Everything is clearly labelled; and there’s a separate vegetarian section for the main dishes. A few of the highlights on a recent visit included mini masala dosa, potato patties with chickpea curry, vibrantly green and very fresh-tasting spinach with paneer, beautifully spiced cauliflower, hot mini gulab jamuns, and mousse-like mango yoghurt. The brunch is particularly suitable for special occasion dining with friends and family. The price includes a drink and live music. La Porte des Indes, 32 Bryanston Street, Marylebone, W1H 7EG. Sunday jazz brunch: 12 noon-3.30pm. Chai Ki Chai Ki's curry leaf and turmeric scrambled eggs. Tucked away in a corner of Canary Wharf, this contemporary Indian canteen and bar is worth tracking down. It overlooks the canal, and has a pretty roof garden at the top. For breakfast, there's delicious aloo tikki bun, pancakes made with Indian-style ‘chhaas’ buttermilk, and spicy scrambled eggs and omelette. You’ll also find idli sambhar (South Indian steamed rice cakes with lentil and vegetable stew), a spicy version of the full English, and not-to-be-missed mango shrikand made from labneh-like yoghurt. Any restaurant that puts a classic dessert on its breakfast menu gets a gold star. There’s also an enticing selection of hot and cold beverages, including spiced hot chocolate and Sri Lankan arrack-based toddy. Chai Ki, Crossrail Place, E14 5AR. Breakfast: Monday-Friday 7am-10.30am; brunch: Saturday-Sunday 10am-4pm. Chai Ki's spice-spiked bloody mary... guaranteed to wake you up. Saravanaa Bhavan This no-frills vegetarian café chain originated in Chennai (formerly Madras) over 35 years ago. Although it doesn’t serve a separate breakfast menu, the Wembley branch is open early, so you can visit for a good selection of classic South Indian breakfast dishes. These include many types of dosa, idli, vada and bonda (varieties of fritters), uttapam (pancakes with pizza-style toppings), and rava khichadi (savoury semolina ‘risotto’). Other traditional breakfast items feature too, such as curries made from potatoes or chickpeas paired with pooris or parathas. To drink, there are freshly pressed juices, lassis, chilled milks flavoured with rose syrup or almonds, and latte-like South Indian filter coffee. Saravanaa Bhavan Wembley, 22 and 22A Ealing Road, Wembley HA0 4TL. Open daily from 9.30am. Other branches in Southall, Tooting, Harrow, East Ham and Ilford. Vasanta Bhavan This cheap and cheerful eatery doesn’t have a separate breakfast menu, but is open early for the classic South Indian breakfast fix known as ‘tiffin’. Dosas, idlis and uttapam are all present and correct; plus there’s pongal, a mildly spiced rice and lentil ‘porridge’ that’s perfect first thing in the morning. Vasanta Bhavan, 206 High Street North, East Ham, E6 2JA. Open daily from 9am. Some of the desserts at La Porte Des Indes' Sunday brunch. Photo: Sejal Sukhadwala. Also try… Bangalore Express: a choice of vegetable dosa or eggy ‘omelette paratha’ with masala tea or coffee. Indian YMCA: Fitzrovia’s Indian student hostel’s restaurant serves a £4 breakfast, with a daily-changing Indian dish like Keralan appam with vegetable stew, or South Indian rice noodles. Sakonis Wembley: a £6 weekend breakfast that features dosa, idli, upma (savoury semolina ‘risotto’) poori and jalebi (sweet sticky spirals), accompanied by masala chai. Gupta’s Hendon: Not a restaurant, but a popular takeaway joint, which sells delicious ‘hing kachori’ that’s worth seeking out in north-west London. This regional specialty, rarely found elsewhere in the capital, comprises urid lentil-stuffed puffy fried breads with a pronounced asafoetida flavour, accompanied by spiced potato curry.

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travelonlinetips-blog · 5 years

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Where are the best fish and chips on the Sunshine Coast?

We spend most weekends exploring the Sunshine Coast, but wherever we end up, one thing can be counted on and that’s a belly full of the best fish and chips. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s delicious… even the fussy eater in the family thinks so!

So, I figured compiling a list of the best fish and chips on offer would be a no-brainer. But boy-oh-boy, narrowing the list! The Coast has certainly seen a boom in savvy restaurateurs adding their own twist to the traditional takeaway. But that doesn’t mean some old school cafes aren’t kicking goals when it comes to the ultimate in land-meet-sea fare.

Here’s our Top 10 (in no particular order)… until next weekend anyway!

1. Saltwater Fish & Chippery – Mooloolaba

If you’ve gotta nail your fish and chips first time, then this is your place. Its food reputation is well deserved and backed by talented chefs who can tell you exactly what local produce comes from where.

We can vouch for anything on their reasonably-priced menu but don’t go past their succulent calamari or tempura prawns. In the meantime, we’ll keep trying to work out how they get their chip batter so light, crispy and more-ish for just $3 a handful!

This Hampton’s style eatery (with a sit-down restaurant option) is handy to Mooloolah River and the beach. No need to go anywhere though, there’s outdoor seating and even beanbags and games for the kids.

Where: The Wharf, 123 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba. Open 7 days.

2. Reelax Café and Takeaway – Dicky Beach

Could this be the best fish batter on the Coast? It’s definitely up there and the fish is fresh-as too.

If you’re not that into the seafood side of the menu, they also have off-the-chart gourmet burgers: Steak and Blue Cheese; Crispy Pork Belly; Mushroom and Swiss Cheese or Rib Eye with Philly Cheese. Say what?

Where: 3/10 Beerburrum Street, Dicky Beach. Open 7 days. Gluten free available.

3. Noosa Boathouse – Noosaville

Literally floating on the Noosa River, you couldn’t get closer to the water if you tried! This three-level restaurant has a takeaway fish and chips menu with single or family packs and also a kid’s size serving of dory & chips for $10.

The fish here is battered with Byron Bay’s Stone & Wood beer, which is a marriage made in heaven… as are the sunsets over Noosa River if you time your visit right.

Where: 194 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville. Open 7 days.

4. 98 Fish – Forest Glen

This place is unassumingly tucked away just off the Bruce Highway, but well worth checking out. It’s small, but punches above its weight for fish options and calamari portions, unlike your usual one-size-fits-all.

This is also the place for fresh seafood, including Coffin Bay oysters delivered every Thursday and a daily Mooloolaba king prawn catch.

Where: 347 Mons Road, Forest Glen. Open 7 days. Gluten free available.

5. Fisheries on the Spit – Mooloolaba

Open since 1982, this place is an institution with Sunny Coasters. Originally known as the Co-op, it’s where the local fishing vessels come in and you won’t find a greater menu selection of daily-caught fish anywhere else, done crumbed, battered or grilled.

As well as some first-class takeaway, you’ll be eyeing off the freshest of seafood to take home with you for later too. There’s a kid’s playground and park across the road, plus family-friendly swimming spot the Spit a two-minute walk away.

Where: 21 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba. Open 7 days.

Psst! If you’re planning on trying to hit a few of these recommendations on a weekend you’ll need somewhere to rest your head and belly. This Sunshine Coast accommodation guide has got you covered.

6. Sandbar Café – Bulcock Beach

With the best views in town, Sandbar’s Café’s takeaway fish and chips delivers the goods for both food and atmosphere.

As well as the usual suspects, their menu features some delicious salmon and kaffir lime potato cakes, and Thai fish cakes. Plus they have a dedicated gluten-free fryer for fish and chips with gluten-free flour, or you can have it grilled in butter.

Where: 26 The Esplanade, Bulcock Beach. Open 7 days. Gluten-free available.

7. Fish and Chippery – Mooloolaba

One of the cool kids on the Mooloolaba block, head here to try their out-of-the-everyday sweet potato chips and sweet potato scallops (aka potato cakes if you’re not from these parts).

And if you’re as big a fan of the potato scallops as we are, be there on Tuesdays when they’re only $1 each! Their burgers are also well worth checking out, as is the view over Mooloolaba Beach.

Where: Shop 5, Landmark Resort, Mooloolaba. Open 7 days.

8. Noosaville Fish Market – Noosaville

Far from the madding crowd, the Noosaville Fish Market (built in the 1940s) started as an outlet for local trawlers before Noosa was even a thing.

It boasts a more-than-reasonably-priced menu, with fish and chips combo $8.50 (including homemade tartare sauce and lemon!), and kid’s packs for $6.70. You can’t beat that when you’ve got a family to feed, and there’s plenty of nearby parks nearby to spread a picnic blanket along the Noosa River.

Where: Currently 90 Hilton Terrace (moving to 11 Hilton Terrace in March), Noosaville. Open 7 days.

9. Suncoast Seafoods – Cotton Tree

Location is important when it comes to setting up the perfect fish and chips event, which is what makes Suncoast Seafood best in show.

Wrapped in the cutest seafood-print paper you’ll find anywhere, you can carry your hot little bundle straight to the river mouth, open surf beach or picnic-perfect Cotton Tree Park.

Where: Shop 7, 17-19 King Street, Maroochydore. Open 7 days.

10. The Drunken Sailor – Marcoola

Featuring locally sourced seafood and a Little Pirates menu for kids, this place is as handy as it gets, me hearties.

Their specialities include a NZ kumara scallop and skinny potato chups (that’s Kiwi too), but also check out their organic buns: The Good Fish burger, or Old Salt’s Calamari and Chicken. The downside? You can only catch dinner Thursday to Sunday.

Where: 970 David Low Way, Marcoola. Open from 4pm, Thursday to Sunday.

If you’re drooling for the best fish and chips but headed to the Gold Coast, we’ve got you covered with this post.

Who gets your vote for the best fish and chips on the Sunshine Coast? Tell us in the comments below.

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uniliving · 7 years

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Demystify Sydney-Australia’s Famous Harbour City

One of the major cities in the world with a number of world’s top universities located within its bound; Sydney is definitely a city to look out for. Be it the beautiful weather or the vibrant atmosphere around, there is something here, which’ll make you fall in love with this place over and over again. And if you’re fond of water, you’ll love the fact that the beach is just an hour away! The secret beaches of Sydney are beautiful places to spend some relaxing time. Cockle Bay Wharf is another great place here, combining fabulous restaurants and cafes with great views across the harbour.

If you’re fond of your camera then BINGO, you can literally spend hours with it walking the streets, alone or with a friend.

You might be a little concerned about the food before arriving, but Sydney has more than enough variety of restaurants and cuisines to allow a food-lover like me to live contently.

Darling Harbour, Chinatown and Haymarket

Darling Harbour is a harbour adjacent to the city centre of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Its attractions include a bowling alley, laser tag arena and even Australia's first retail jet flight simulator! What MORE can a student ask for in want of recreational activities?

Want a little piece of Asia right in the land down under? Well, you have come to the right place. Chinatown in Haymarket, Darling Harbour is packed and bursting with all things Asian! Food halls, noodle bars, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, packed food courts, yum - cha restaurants and quirky shopping centres. You'll find it all here!

If you are a part of University of Technology, Sydney, you should know that the campus is accessible by rail, bus and light rail services, and UTS students are eligible for a student discount from many of the parking stations on Quay Street (Chinatown) and Ultimo Road. You can very easily get down to Darling Harbour or Chinatown in a matter of minutes and make your free time count. Whether it is a night out with friends for dinner, a weekend or just a break between classes, this place is one wonder that'll never stop being exciting! There is so much to do, eat and explore, it is almost a never ending list!

The fun and exciting Darling Harbour and Chinatown are easily accessible for people who are studying in the Torrens University as well – which is barely a fifteen - minute walk from UTS! With cool hang out spots like these near world - class universities, who needs anything more?

Paddington and Woollahra

Paddington and Woollahra are two places in Sydney, New South Wales that every student should visit and explore. These places are bursting with energy and are packed with fun stuff to see!

Paddington has a number of hotels, bars, lounges, sport centres, art galleries, libraries, cinemas and what not! What more does a student need? You've got some top - notch restaurants, bars and clubs to hang out in and whether you're a book lover, a celluloid freak or a sports maniac, you'll find something (read: a lot) to do for recreation in Paddington.

Woollhara essentially means camp or meeting ground. With its bustling cafes, restaurants, antique shops, and art galleries it is a sure shot win - win place for the students of UNSW Art and Design.

Sydney buses cover the whole of Woollahra making it very easy for the college students to commute and explore the place.

It is the perfect place to hang out and chill in on weekends or on holidays.

Darlinghurst and Potts Point

Charles Sturt University Study Centre (CSU) is located in the heart of Sydney and is conveniently located in Darlinghurst, a densely populated cosmopolitan suburb.

Places like Victoria Street (which connects Darlinghurst to Potts Point), Stanley Street (which also called Little Italy) and Crown Street ( known for vintage and retro fashion) are known as culturally rich destinations. These high street areas are connected by a network of lane-ways and street corners with small bars, cafes and boutique indie retail which makes Darlinghurst a hit with the youth of Sydney!

CSU being located in place like Darlinghurst with Potts Point just minutes away, which is bursting with life and fun things to do, certainly does add to its many plus points.

Apart from this, Darlinghurst has two of Sydney's museums: the Australian Museum (a natural history museum) and the Sydney Jewish Museum. Art and history enthusiasts must explore these two museums in their free time as they are a great way to pass time and even learn something new about the city!

For students who are fitness freaks, boy, does Potts Point have a few attractions for you! Aside from a few fitness centres, there's a Yoga Village - which is just a stone's throw away from Kings Cross station - which holds classes at a variety of times in a day. So, after a long day full of classes, you know where to hit for some relaxation of the mind AND body!

Attractions and activities like these in both the places are bound to make any student's life - studying in a college in their vicinity, like CSU - more exciting and fun - filled!

Inner West

Students of Australian Catholic University and University of Sydney! How blessed are you to be studying there? The answer is VERY! Not only are you studying in some of the top universities of Sydney, but you're also living right in the heart of the city! Inner West is the metropolitan area directly to the west of the Sydney central business district, New South Wales, and where these universities are located.

Inner West is well connected with trains, buses, ferries and light rail, which any student can catch easily to hang out in one of the many exciting avenues at Inner West.

There are little cafes and restaurants here and there and the restaurants host a wide range of cuisines to pick from. You'll always find something to do that holds your interest in this metropolitan area and that too, it'll always manage to fit well in your budget.

Now, how's that for blessed?

City Centre, The Rocks and Circular Quay

The City Centre, The Rocks and Circular Quay are all located in close proximity to each other. These are three brilliant attractions in Sydney, NSW. Macquarie City Campus, Sydney Business School and La Trobe University are some of the top universities of Sydney which are located near these wonderful places, so consider yourself lucky if you're a part of any of these universities!

Circular Quay is a harbour in Sydney and the area is a popular neighbourhood for tourism. It is made up of walkways, pedestrian malls, parks and restaurants. It hosts a number of ferry quays, bus stops, and a train station which makes commuting relatively easier. It is also one of the main congregation points for Sydney New Year's Eve, so be sure to drop by at least once there! The Circular Quay occupies the central location in Sydney which only raises its popularity among people as it is near the Sydney Opera House and also is home to a number of museums.

The Rocks is an urban locality, also a tourist hub. One of its reasons for immense popularity is its proximity to the Circular Quay and you can even view the iconic Harbour Bridge from here! There are a lot of art galleries to be visited along with a variety of souvenir and craft shops, as well as many themed and historic pubs, which are extremely cool and affordable! It also hosts numerous historical walks. This is clearly the place for history buffs!

The City Centre lies at the hub of Sydney's transport network. You can catch any train or bus from anywhere, and you will land up here any way, as it is the city's centre after all! The City Centre boasts of city pubs, the opera aficionados and diners. The night - life up here is pretty active and happening as well where 24 - hour and late night eateries, venues, shops and entertainment options are all available!

Students residing in this part of Sydney have truly struck the pot of gold as this is literally the heart and soul of the city and these places are sure to never leave you bored or without a thing to do!

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charllieeldridge · 5 years

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15 Things To Do in Halifax: Nova Scotia’s Waterfront Capital

Large enough to keep you busy for a week, but small enough that you don’t feel overwhelmed — Halifax may just be the perfect sized capital city.

Whatever you’re interested in, you’ll find it among the many things to do in Halifax. If you’re wondering what to do in Halifax during your trip, read on for my 15 best recommendations.

Don’t Miss The Video of Things To Do in Halifax

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1. Walk the Waterfront

This picture-perfect spot is the prized possession of Halifax. The waterfront walkway is a pedestrian-only zone, making it a great place to get away from traffic. Watch the locals fishing off the wharf, gawk at a docked superyacht, or pop in for some tasty snacks at the colourful outdoor food eatery.

Insider tip: try the beaver tails, poutine and locally made ice cream!

This is a great place to walk any time of the day but is especially nice during the morning and around sunset.

The Waterfront in Halifax is a great place to walk

2. Go To a Festival or Event (one of the best things to do in Halifax)

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Halifax, and attending one of the many events and festivals is one of them! Whether you’re a foodie, a sports fan, a music lover, or are into the arts, there’s an event for you in Halifax.

If you’re in the city in July, try to time your visit for the TD Halifax Jazz Festival. During the beginning of July, many venues around the city are turned into outdoor concerts. We were lucky enough to visit on a night when American artist, Common and local artist, Shad were performing at the TD stage near the waterfront. What an incredible concert!

Try to time your visit for the Halifax Jazz Festival!

Other events you don’t want to miss in Halifax:

The annual Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo (the world’s biggest yearly indoor show).

Ribfest which is around the end of June.

Pride Festival which is held in July.

Busker Festival in early August.

Seaport Beerfest in August.

…and so many more!

3. Cross The Harbour to Dartmouth

There are numerous neighbourhoods in Halifax. If you have a chance, get out of the downtown area and check out some of the other parts of the city. In particular, hop on a short 10-minute ferry ride ($2.50 return) from downtown Halifax across the harbour to Alderney in Dartmouth.

Dartmouth has some nice street art

4. Eat Seafood

By far one of the best things to do in Halifax (and Nova Scotia as a whole) is to eat seafood. This province is known for its abundance of lobster, scallops, and salmon and you can’t leave the city without dining on a tasty meal.

There are numerous seafood restaurants in Halifax, but I recommend checking out the Bicycle Thief and sampling the lobster roll. This is a great meal for lunch, as a snack or for dinner. Basically, chunks of rich lobster are tossed in a light mayonaisse, citrus, and herb sauce and placed in (and on top of) a grilled, buttery hot dog bun. Very tasty.

Another must-eat meal is at The Five Fishermen. Go for a plate of lobster with a side of garlic butter for dipping and you won’t be disappointed.

For non-lobster lovers, you can always opt for a piping hot bowl of seafood or corn chowder or a fillet of salmon grilled to perfection. Plus, there’s always the classic fish n’ chips available!

The lobster roll at Bicycle Thief is tasty

5. Hop On The Harbour Hopper

Admittedly, at first glance, this vehicle looks pretty touristy. However, once you’re aboard, you realize just how informative and fun the ride is. These LARC-V amphibious vehicles were used by the Americans during the Vietnam war to transport soldiers and supplies — they were able to carry 5 tons!

The narrated tour takes you through the city’s streets to see some of the major sites and parks (including the Citadel), before converting itself into a boat and floating along the coastline! This is Atlantic Canada’s most popular tour, so make sure you get your tickets early.

View of Halifax from the Harbour Hopper

6. Go North

While many people focus on Downtown Halifax, the North End is a cool, trendy district that you don’t want to miss. Home to an African Nova Scotian population, gentrification has crept in (as it does in so many cities worldwide), and these days the North End is now predominantly a university student area.

With gentrification, you’ll now find hip craft beer bars, fusion yoga and pilates classes, an up and coming restaurant scene, and cute boutique shops. This is a hipster area for sure with many musicians, writers, and artists calling this place home. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the city’s second-oldest building, the Little Dutch Church.

Hopefully, new emerging businesses will be mindful of hiring locals from the community, or host events that welcome everyone.

Needless to say, the North End is a very interesting place.

Look for bus number 320, 52 or 7 to take you from Downtown to the North End. It’s a 45-minute walk or a 20-minute bus journey.

☞ SEE ALSO: Exploring Nova Scotia – Our Experience on Canada’s East Coast

7. Relax In a Park

While city life is great, sometimes it’s nice to chill out in a green space for a while. Luckily, there are many spots in Halifax where you can do just that.

Sunrise at Point Pleasant Park

8. Sample The Official Food of Halifax

Have you ever tried a Middle Eastern doner kebab, shawarma or a Greek gyro? The donair is similar to that, but with a Halifax twist.

Using Lebanese bread rather than Greek pita, beef and chicken instead of lamb, and creating a sauce from evaporated milk, garlic, parsley, vinegar, and sugar, the donair was born. Luckily, Haligonians took to this creation and the donair is now the official food of Halifax!

There are a few places to try them. Johnny K’s is located on Pizza Corner which is a late-night hangout or try them at King Of Donair.

**Don’t tell any Haligonians this, but I prefer the yogurt sauce!

Eating a donair is one of the must-dos in Halifax!

9. Visit a Museum

With so much history in the city, make sure to check out one, or two, of the museums. Pier 21 is a museum showcasing immigration in Nova Scotia — both past and present. From 1928 – 1971, nearly one million people arrived at the Halifax Seaport. At the museum, you can even search the database for your own ancestors!

During the high season, May 1 – October 31, The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is open 7 days a week from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Admission is $14.50 for adults.

Another must-visit is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which houses numerous artifacts, ships, and a collection of items found from the sunken Titanic.

In 1912 when the Titanic sunk, Halifax was the closest major port and played a huge role in the collection of bodies and wreckage. One hundred and twenty-one victims of the sinking are buried at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, while many of the artifacts recovered are in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.

*Insider tip: visit the museum on Tuesday from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm when admission is free.

10. Try The Local Craft Beers

Garrisons brewing is located near the Pier 21 Immigration and the Seaport Farmer’s Market, making it a great pit stop during sightseeing. If you’re into IPAs, I recommend the Propeller Galaxy IPA, a foggy, hoppy delight (try it at the Stubborn Goat beer garden). You can find Propeller Brewing Co. a few blocks north of the Citadel.

Don’t miss the Propeller beers!

Many of the other breweries are located in the trendy North End, or across the harbour in Dartmouth.

Head to Battery Park in Dartmouth to sample the Belgian inspired beers at North Brewing Company, or the small-batch production at Nine Locks. If you’re visiting the North End, check out Unfiltered Brewing, or the Good Robot Brewing Company — which offers a taproom, pub, and events.

11. Visit The Farmer’s Market

Note: many of the vendors appreciate it if you pay by cash.

12. Go On a Day Trip

There are lots of day trips from Halifax, here are a couple of suggestions:

Peggy’s Cove: This stunning community and lighthouse is just a 50-minute drive from Halifax. There are a few ways to get here, either by car, taxi or tour. The drive takes you along the picturesque Lighthouse Route while stopping to enjoy the hidden bays and coves along the way. Either rent a car or join a day trip from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove. Another option is to join a tour that covers both Halifax and Peggy’s Cove (plus a lobster roll lunch!).

The lovely community of Peggy’s Cove

Lunenburg: The UNESCO listed fishing town is a great place to visit. If you have time, spending the night is best, but many people choose to join day trips from Halifax to Lunenburg. It’s about an hour’s drive from Halifax.

Mahone Bay: Known for its 3 picturesque churches, this town offers great restaurants, a craft beer brewery, and many specialty shops. It’s a little over an hour’s drive to reach Mahone Bay, making it another great day trip from Halifax.

Wine Country: Further afield than the above 3 options, you’ll find the Annapolis Valley. Many day trips from Halifax head out to wine country on a longer tour — around 8 hours. Enjoy tastings at the wineries, a gourmet lunch, and visits to other nearby sites. Click here for details.

13. Join The Free Walking Tour

Many cities around the world offer free walking tours, which are typically run by university students. One of the top things to do in Halifax is to join the walking tour.

An aerial view of the Citadel

14. Watch Glass Blowing

If you’re wondering what to do in Halifax to spend a few minutes, head down to Nova Scotian Crystal and be mesmerized by the glass blowers there. Irish immigrants brought their European glass blowing techniques with them and passed them down to the next generation.

This is the only place in Canada that makes hand-cut, mouth-blown crystal items.

The colourful melted glass is spun, blown and molded into beautiful crystal glasses, bowls, office items, wedding gifts, sculptures and more. This is one of the most fascinating things to see in Halifax.

15. Get Active

If climbing really isn’t your thing, their cafe is a great place to grab a cup of coffee and they offer vegan and vegetarian items on the menu as well.

Where To Stay in Halifax

If you’re keen to do lots of sightseeing, your best base would be the Downtown area near the Waterfront. If trendy, hipster vibes are more your scene, then the North End might be more for you.

We stayed at the Westin Nova Scotian which is located right near the Waterfront, Pier 21, Seaport Farmer’s Market and Garrisons Brewing. The newly renovated room was great and offered an amazing view of Georges Island and the Waterfront. The staff at this historic hotel are very friendly and helpful, there’s (paid) parking available, and you can dine at the onsite restaurant and bar.

Now that’s a room with a view!

Plus, the hotel has a fitness center, pool, salon and spa, and the Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club is located in the lobby. We enjoyed our stay here (including the huge breakfast buffet!).

To search for places to stay in Halifax on Booking.com, click here.

Ready For All The Things To Do in Halifax?!

Nick and I spent 5 days in the city and easily could have spent 10. With so many cool neighbourhoods to explore, restaurants to dine at, and craft beers to sample, you’ll never be bored here.

Visiting in the summer months will ensure you’ll be able to catch a festival (or 3), while the off-season means you’ll have the city and locals all to yourself. Enjoy your trip to Halifax and let me know what I missed in the comments below.

A special thank you to Visit Nova Scotia for making this trip possible. As always, all thoughts and opinions remain our own. Some images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.

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