tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49497221451952897392024-03-14T16:10:14.758-07:00Juanita NgHello, astonishing worldUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-90919663681015238002024-03-14T15:59:00.000-07:002024-03-14T16:03:57.308-07:00Venice, Italy’s new entry fee: How much will it cost to visit?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sYXw551MIvyGAYvQiEnkYWamvC36Sn7LdjdtRJsWxqUbTlRJW75X8mehlQSx9mtbknKlTNF7tpUOeV25MFd0mnTMLyBQ565fjxFLZsaf7rZO1uW2EdjO5ByiuKLCfcVvT8XOG3H8KAJU1W_k2sa7eyLZKoZNZZdxC6Ayhmjd-FADmcdsCiNRqcDULezo/s3116/Grand%20Canal%20Venice%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Grand Canal in Venice Italy" border="0" data-original-height="2337" data-original-width="3116" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sYXw551MIvyGAYvQiEnkYWamvC36Sn7LdjdtRJsWxqUbTlRJW75X8mehlQSx9mtbknKlTNF7tpUOeV25MFd0mnTMLyBQ565fjxFLZsaf7rZO1uW2EdjO5ByiuKLCfcVvT8XOG3H8KAJU1W_k2sa7eyLZKoZNZZdxC6Ayhmjd-FADmcdsCiNRqcDULezo/w640-h480/Grand%20Canal%20Venice%202.jpg" title="The Grand Canal in Venice Italy is one of those iconic "wow" moments." width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Venice, Italy is the first city in the world to charge an entry fee. But you can still visit for free — for now.</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><p>About 30 million people visit Venice every year. About 70% of these tourists come in just for the day.</p><p>If you’re planning a visit to Venice, here’s how the city’s <a href="https://cda.ve.it/en/" target="_blank">new entry fee</a> will work:</p><p><b>1.</b> The €5 fee is being tested during peak periods in 2024. But it will be brought in permanently in 2025.</p><p><b>2.</b> It will apply only to day-trippers who do not have at least one overnight stay booked. Everyone over the age of 14 must pay.</p><p><b>3.</b> In 2024, the fee will only apply to people entering Venice between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. So if you’re arriving later for supper or a show, you won’t have to pay.</p><p><b>4.</b> You’ll have to register to enter the city even if you’re exempt from paying (for example, if you’ve booked an overnight stay).</p><p><b>5. </b>When you register, you’ll receive a QR code that you can scan at turnstiles at the city’s main access points, including the main train station. QR codes will also be checked randomly.</p><p><b>6.</b> In 2024, these are the dates that Venice will charge the fee. The data learned will help officials when they bring in the entry fee permanently in 2025. The 2024 dates are:</p><p>* April 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 2024</p><p>* May 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26 2024</p><p>* June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 2024</p><p>* July 6, 7, 13 and 14 2024</p><p><b>7. </b>During the testing period in 2024, Murano and Burano are exempt from the fee.</p><div><br /></div><div><h3><span><span>MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/08/plan-your-trip-to-antelope-canyon-6-things-to-know.html" target="_blank">Plan your trip to Antelope Canyon</a></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span><br /></span></span></span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2022/12/best-things-to-do-off-the-las-vegas-strip.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The best things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip</a><br />MORE:<span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></h3><div><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></div></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Venice, Italy45.4408474 12.315515117.130613563821157 -22.8407349 73.751081236178848 47.4717651tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-40095470989346991782024-03-09T11:21:00.000-08:002024-03-09T11:29:24.972-08:00New York's 5 observation towers: Which is best?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4HM3Qt9oiW6XqTIEUwFurdMaeHKDaR2Dtw6J22p5UfPnugTVyX0M7B9pMaQAtOlykQfrBxNPHkOms2yeUKb4dsMat5ZbkgB06ZFZNf421S2YX2BvNWiEFhWZS_yVQ9Jck2W5EAUkljJfnIYfJRJvWfdFaNLZN8XRAxNollCUqu6Gur2PV8eTfsFyvNNwc/s3239/Summit%20one%20vanderbilt.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summit One Vanderbilt" border="0" data-original-height="3239" data-original-width="2996" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4HM3Qt9oiW6XqTIEUwFurdMaeHKDaR2Dtw6J22p5UfPnugTVyX0M7B9pMaQAtOlykQfrBxNPHkOms2yeUKb4dsMat5ZbkgB06ZFZNf421S2YX2BvNWiEFhWZS_yVQ9Jck2W5EAUkljJfnIYfJRJvWfdFaNLZN8XRAxNollCUqu6Gur2PV8eTfsFyvNNwc/w592-h640/Summit%20one%20vanderbilt.jpg" title="The view from Summit One Vanderbilt in New York" width="592" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Which NYC observation tower should you visit? My guide to which towers are worth the admission ticket.<span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><p>New York has 5 major towers, and none of them are cheap, so I hope this post will help you to decide how to spend your hard-earned vacation dollars. (Prices are accurate as of February 2024)</p><p>Here are my ratings from best to last. (YMMV) Don’t make the mistake in No. 3! </p><p><b>1. <a href="https://www.rockefellercenter.com/attractions/top-of-the-rock-observation-deck/" target="_blank">TOP OF THE ROCK</a></b></p><p>My top pick is Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center for its superb views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and even the Statue of Liberty. Adult tickets are $40 to $55. Pro tip: If you can, add a tour of Rockefeller Center itself. It’s an excellent tour and you’ll get a discount.</p><p><b>2. <a href="https://summitov.com/" target="_blank">SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT</a> (MAIN PHOTO)</b></p><p>This tower opened in 2021 and it’s a very close second for its excellent views and very cool Mirror Room. Pro tip: Don’t pay to go to the higher floor unless you have a lot of money to spend. I only went to the lower floor and the views from here are spectacular. Adult tickets start at $42.</p><p><b>3. <a href="https://www.esbnyc.com/" target="_blank">EMPIRE STATE BUILDING</a></b></p><p>The views from here are also superb. But don’t make this mistake: Be aware that if you’re in the Empire State Building, it obviously won’t be in your photo and IMO, the Empire State Building is the iconic symbol of New York. Adult tickets start at $44.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZw4TuUERTywK8LyyfnS3iaaaPTQezJ-DD7YvK6TKU7Mp7ZcKr3h5cAHJl8PbbtYUsaIyyFDPd_KriS97TtOsUrgmKB4fdoCK6hx_NZMd_efO2WI8WegJtpDIzowqvZFvJnKSrBXv5tVO5V2SJ2uoxF00vPdCUooBg8UeBLHqG7nnoeVkqQ7SBlhKT1no8/s3918/Edge%20NYC%20New%20York.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Edge NYC in New York" border="0" data-original-height="3918" data-original-width="2938" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZw4TuUERTywK8LyyfnS3iaaaPTQezJ-DD7YvK6TKU7Mp7ZcKr3h5cAHJl8PbbtYUsaIyyFDPd_KriS97TtOsUrgmKB4fdoCK6hx_NZMd_efO2WI8WegJtpDIzowqvZFvJnKSrBXv5tVO5V2SJ2uoxF00vPdCUooBg8UeBLHqG7nnoeVkqQ7SBlhKT1no8/w480-h640/Edge%20NYC%20New%20York.jpg" title="The view from Edge NYC in New York City." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Edge NYC</td></tr></tbody></table><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>4. <a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en" target="_blank">EDGE NYC</a></b></p><p>I was meh about Edge NYC, the other new tower in NYC. IMO the views are not as good as at No. 1, 2 & 3, and there are few non-view features. I was in and out in under an hour. Adult tickets start at $36. There’s a City Climb feature that costs extra if you’re feeling daredevilish.</p><p><br /></p><p><b>5. <a href="https://www.oneworldobservatory.com/" target="_blank">ONE WORLD OBSERVATORY</a></b></p><p>This tower is in Lower Manhattan so you’ll get great views of the Statue of Liberty. But IMO this is just too far from Midtown to see the iconic buildings like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Adult tickets start at $44.</p><p><br /></p><div><b>Main photo: The view from Summit One Vanderbilt in New York City</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-hotels-in-vancouver-canada-near-the-cruise-ship-terminal-dock.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Best hotels in downtown Vancouver near the cruise ship dock</a><br />MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><div><span><br /></span></div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h3><div></div><div><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></div></h3><h3><div><br /></div></h3></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0New York City40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-3211023285172818122024-02-14T10:00:00.000-08:002024-02-15T08:09:33.817-08:00Sagrada Familia in Barcelona: Know before you go<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xO13k7voQTMu_mUAaQSHUsW7RfMdEZgVnqmJ6iEvWefCzT9RDAtQpWQrbBNciwq9N9XXLcCjxK6Q5Osf1sEwky8b4-T-X1rnWwVn0HzU9pyZpe_GcoC6dB6Ddss9VUi7SXDmBrUS0eFkECA8R71dnBvBjGz906VyoCSnl0ifFyl40vrS1piSHmVXPjaB/s2461/sagrada%20familia%20barcelona%20spain%201.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is an absolute must-see." border="0" data-original-height="2449" data-original-width="2461" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xO13k7voQTMu_mUAaQSHUsW7RfMdEZgVnqmJ6iEvWefCzT9RDAtQpWQrbBNciwq9N9XXLcCjxK6Q5Osf1sEwky8b4-T-X1rnWwVn0HzU9pyZpe_GcoC6dB6Ddss9VUi7SXDmBrUS0eFkECA8R71dnBvBjGz906VyoCSnl0ifFyl40vrS1piSHmVXPjaB/w640-h636/sagrada%20familia%20barcelona%20spain%201.jpg" title="The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is an absolute must-see." width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is an iconic church and an absolute must-see in Spain.</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><b>But here’s what you should know before you go:</b><div><br /></div><div>1. It’s definitely worth the price to go up one of the towers. The Passion Tower has the best views of the city of Barcelona. But be aware: While you’ll take the elevator to the top, you’ll need to walk down a ton of winding, narrow stairs with no guardrail. Why yes, I was freaked out!</div><div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYn-EodY5zytcUeK5rDdAiJfI2kl7BSXtvkI1d-2g1L9yECo4otEhV71qkGtZ4SM5ZRoOnFm8c1aQ044_ccJEnMpNNrjwPWc41_1terr52bq_3aK-8mKjRvtf41jsvQZS8JbTyv65si_FsE_fc1n1Uco3GNFZAgm4tQGB6IIpoGheC505KGvHeLHCd7cI/s3941/sagrada%20familia%20barcelona%20spain%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The stunning interior of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona." border="0" data-original-height="3941" data-original-width="2956" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSYn-EodY5zytcUeK5rDdAiJfI2kl7BSXtvkI1d-2g1L9yECo4otEhV71qkGtZ4SM5ZRoOnFm8c1aQ044_ccJEnMpNNrjwPWc41_1terr52bq_3aK-8mKjRvtf41jsvQZS8JbTyv65si_FsE_fc1n1Uco3GNFZAgm4tQGB6IIpoGheC505KGvHeLHCd7cI/w480-h640/sagrada%20familia%20barcelona%20spain%202.jpg" title="The stunning interior of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona." width="480" /></a></div><br />2. The blue/green stained glass on one side of the church, and the orange/red stained glass on the other side were designed this way to symbolize the rising and setting sun.<br /><br />3. There are no indoor bathrooms here, only porta potties. Plan your liquids ingestion wisely and use a bathroom in one of the many restaurants around the church first.<br /><br />4. You’ll never get a good shot in front of the Sagrada Familia because, tourists! Instead, head to the park in front of the Sagrada and use the trees here to hide all the people. You’ll get a beautiful shot of foliage with the towers of the Sagrada emerging behind it – and no people.<br /><br />5. Skip the guided tour! Just use the free app tour that’s included with your ticket. The tour is incredibly dull unless you love lots of Wikipedia-like info about the statues on the exterior of the building.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KFMpsu4yVyAkGSwKFMrqIh-j0W0AzInSrkcCNR3_OEoD1srs39RUkGoUsGZ465FijWNpWPpHkprtQvxnT5TDVjS7CXd3bHNlehHhXzb1VG9FR5WYhxP0thr2lEy3AEnNw6B90iD_PhxkQAScnz7G6bCkBD5x_kWEjYnOe_RPgym_du7a-NBCybX7bwgW/s4032/sagrada%20familia%20barcelona%20spain%203.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="View of Barcelona from the Passion Tower at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7KFMpsu4yVyAkGSwKFMrqIh-j0W0AzInSrkcCNR3_OEoD1srs39RUkGoUsGZ465FijWNpWPpHkprtQvxnT5TDVjS7CXd3bHNlehHhXzb1VG9FR5WYhxP0thr2lEy3AEnNw6B90iD_PhxkQAScnz7G6bCkBD5x_kWEjYnOe_RPgym_du7a-NBCybX7bwgW/w480-h640/sagrada%20familia%20barcelona%20spain%203.jpg" title="View of Barcelona from the Passion Tower at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of Barcelona from the Passion Tower at the Sagrada Familia.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><h3>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/montserrat-monastery-spain-what-to-know.html" target="_blank">Montserrat monastery in Spain is a must-see day trip</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/la-rambla-barcelonas-most-famous-street.html" target="_blank">La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html"><br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/02/how-to-visit-alhambra-in-granada-spain.html" target="_blank">How to visit the Alhambra in Granada, Spain</a><span><br />MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/Pickpockets-and-scammers-europe-spain-italy-france.html" target="_blank">In Europe, watch for pickpockets and scammers</a><br /></span></h3><p><b>Find more travel inspo on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></p><p><br /></p><p><b>PHOTOS OF THE SAGRADA FAMILIA ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div><div><br /></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Barcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.16856813.077163563821152 -32.987682 69.697631236178836 37.324818tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-22258143016972892142024-02-11T12:23:00.000-08:002024-02-11T12:27:42.323-08:00How to visit the Alhambra in Granada, Spain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiIjSu7T0zEmaY1Ib185-j0NFTivYA09lDEu6MIHhJonnSmFUe9Ux954wSIGbOqy2636RBhyv5Ej7KuPRhjB7lYdOw7hYYe4QRGQj01K64dB9vmkH-2dzzhSUorYHaDXLOt4M3JfNDAw2u8SwNFbueHTVVi1zR391WyuhMMZsY5p30DW9Dkv5K7cHxJzR/s2680/alhambra.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Alhambra in Granada, Spain is a must-see" border="0" data-original-height="2520" data-original-width="2680" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiIjSu7T0zEmaY1Ib185-j0NFTivYA09lDEu6MIHhJonnSmFUe9Ux954wSIGbOqy2636RBhyv5Ej7KuPRhjB7lYdOw7hYYe4QRGQj01K64dB9vmkH-2dzzhSUorYHaDXLOt4M3JfNDAw2u8SwNFbueHTVVi1zR391WyuhMMZsY5p30DW9Dkv5K7cHxJzR/w640-h602/alhambra.jpg" title="The Alhambra in Granada, Spain is a must-see — but don't make the same mistake I did." width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Have you dreamed about visiting the Alhambra in Granada, Spain, as I have?</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><p>The Alhambra palace and fortress complex is architecturally astonishing due to the fact that Muslims started building it in 1238 but Christians won it in war in 1492. So as you walk through, you’ll see some incredible Islamic architecture — but also a lot Spanish Renaissance architecture. </p><p>I fully admit to having had a few “what the” moments when I finally visited recently.</p><p>Here are some things you should know if you’re planning a visit:</p><p>👉🏻 Alhambra means “the red one” in Arabic (because of the colour of the walls here). But the site is always referred to as “the Alhambra” which means we’re actually calling it “the the Alhambra.”</p><p>👉🏻 <b>Important ticket info:</b></p><p>Tickets are by timed entry. I’d highly recommend buying in advance.</p><p>The Alhambra General ticket gives full access and costs 19.09 euros.</p><p>Children 11 and under are free but they will still need a ticket.</p><p>You’ll need your passport, or a National Identity Document if you’re a Spanish citizen, to access the complex.</p><p>👉🏻 Bags or backpacks bigger than 40 × 40 cm are not allowed. There are free lockers onsite.</p><p>👉🏻 Random fun fact: Remember that childhood rhyme “In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue”? Well, 1492 is when the Alhambra became the Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella and this site is where Christopher Columbus received the royal go-ahead for his expedition — you know, the one that led to the founding of the Americas.</p><p>It wasn’t all perfect, though.</p><p>What would I change if I could do it over again? I’d totally skip taking a tour. Some people may disagree with me and that’s fine. But this was my experience.</p><p>I really think that unless you’re a huge fan of something — be it Islamic architecture in this case, or palaces, or fortresses — save your money and just see the sight on your own.</p><p>My tour guide gave us so much detail that I zoned out after about 10 minutes. I honestly don’t need to know that much about the architecture or rare inscriptions or any other number of factoids. </p><p>If you’re like me, you just want to look at a sight, admire the gardens and architecture, take a few photos and that’s a great day.</p><p>On the subject of photos: My husband and I didn’t even get a good shot of the two of us here because our tour guide just kept hustling us along so she could spout more Wikipedia details at us.</p><p>So my best advice for visiting the Alhambra is: Skip the tour!</p><p>And I must repeat: Buy your tickets well in advance. On the day I was there, tickets had sold out by 2 p.m. It’s a long way to go to Granada only to find that you can’t get a ticket to visit the Alhambra.<br /><br /><br /></p><h3>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/montserrat-monastery-spain-what-to-know.html" target="_blank">Montserrat monastery in Spain is a must-see day trip</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/la-rambla-barcelonas-most-famous-street.html" target="_blank">La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/12/My%20top%20travel%20essentials.html" target="_blank">Travel, but better: My top 6 travel essentials</a><br />MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/Pickpockets-and-scammers-europe-spain-italy-france.html" target="_blank">In Europe, watch for pickpockets and scammers</a><br /></span></h3><p><b>Find more travel inspo on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></p><p><b>PHOTO OF ALHAMBRA ©JUANITA NG</b></p>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Granada, Spain37.1774605 -3.59843688.8672266638211568 -38.7546868 65.487694336178848 31.5578132tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-86126109380987691992024-02-05T12:27:00.000-08:002024-02-05T12:36:24.971-08:00Road trip! Check out these amazing parks near Las Vegas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCdz3XN1qMWsjfi4K5U2iqR66gG4N7mCgO6ovDJHkPlKjtAaiOBXjoH4QJNqxXmRNvfIHhztoe5g64zuOcn4bHVuUElk1-LUNOStrP6Xu6PfvyilueGpE6qeJMW2uEeWcbYvhX2hkEp-wGVRIsO302A0G64sHYbljYVKA4T-3TRyU1NxUFeVdoSJOZkaS/s4032/bryce%20canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCdz3XN1qMWsjfi4K5U2iqR66gG4N7mCgO6ovDJHkPlKjtAaiOBXjoH4QJNqxXmRNvfIHhztoe5g64zuOcn4bHVuUElk1-LUNOStrP6Xu6PfvyilueGpE6qeJMW2uEeWcbYvhX2hkEp-wGVRIsO302A0G64sHYbljYVKA4T-3TRyU1NxUFeVdoSJOZkaS/w640-h480/bryce%20canyon.jpg" title="The hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park must be seen to be believed." width="640" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"></h4><h3 style="text-align: left;">Did you know there are seven awesome parks that are within driving distance of Las Vegas? <span><a name='more'></a></span><span></span></h3><b><div><b>Time to start planning your next road trip! </b><b>These are the parks and their distances, in the parentheses, from Las Vegas. </b></div></b><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEuL9xZreQZwdXQp2OXZVyC_43sFgghGlH_KvKFuMBT0rd8LVs5jl1aQkXxaYZ0O18NxuTO_cGiMropchHKfa8NWvQvVxx66nF9BNUYZNjpVPNQ82FiOJGbFswC3_2LfMWEDATpiLkk1vfAvHdG_K5-0o1Fl0R-EteFWkuWsOKnZnUFGoQCPFkPI9isk7/s2048/Red%20Rock.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Red Rock park just outside of Las Vegas" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEuL9xZreQZwdXQp2OXZVyC_43sFgghGlH_KvKFuMBT0rd8LVs5jl1aQkXxaYZ0O18NxuTO_cGiMropchHKfa8NWvQvVxx66nF9BNUYZNjpVPNQ82FiOJGbFswC3_2LfMWEDATpiLkk1vfAvHdG_K5-0o1Fl0R-EteFWkuWsOKnZnUFGoQCPFkPI9isk7/w360-h640/Red%20Rock.jpg" title="Red Rock Park just outside of Las Vegas is perfect for an easy day trip." width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area: 24 km (15 miles)</b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGi7S6C8svC9w3o7SyjtmSPhJtse3uTP5W9QihY6olDeG-jwqQyxX0XUDDLZ9lny_dJGyvS3aV484mzEHmY0IGL4i-jAo3Tg1MzvafSjhSIcQgiKPNXGmUholYaw7Enr_zKVL4Q5hF2gYDUxpN-bioxQ3AJej3R9wX_Tr7YlbHjKrpcHvfZwp2AfgJJAba/s3670/valley%20of%20fire.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valley of Fire park in Nevada" border="0" data-original-height="3670" data-original-width="2064" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGi7S6C8svC9w3o7SyjtmSPhJtse3uTP5W9QihY6olDeG-jwqQyxX0XUDDLZ9lny_dJGyvS3aV484mzEHmY0IGL4i-jAo3Tg1MzvafSjhSIcQgiKPNXGmUholYaw7Enr_zKVL4Q5hF2gYDUxpN-bioxQ3AJej3R9wX_Tr7YlbHjKrpcHvfZwp2AfgJJAba/w360-h640/valley%20of%20fire.jpg" title="Valley of Fire park outside of Las Vegas has bright red rocks throughout that literally look like they're on fire." width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>2. Valley of Fire State Park: 74 km (46 miles)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0Q_xChYi09fZMYpm9XddslAHjiuBZR2LzlR0fTfQz1Y9s8sD7RjH7SM2hPU1W3ncgZ8cwMHu7eytE98Op7vvZEYaLUch08MnZy6Qd0Gr3HTlQ1XeouBShb3x_GxZ5Q6KSMJXpxE0_ZYGlqzW96y9EabDJZNmhRGRKewYXRuVkHq8GtKaRwhKkHxdM7-k/s4032/Zion%20National%20Park.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zion National Park in Utah" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0Q_xChYi09fZMYpm9XddslAHjiuBZR2LzlR0fTfQz1Y9s8sD7RjH7SM2hPU1W3ncgZ8cwMHu7eytE98Op7vvZEYaLUch08MnZy6Qd0Gr3HTlQ1XeouBShb3x_GxZ5Q6KSMJXpxE0_ZYGlqzW96y9EabDJZNmhRGRKewYXRuVkHq8GtKaRwhKkHxdM7-k/w360-h640/Zion%20National%20Park.jpg" title="Have you ever seen a landscape like this one at Zion National Park?" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>3. Zion National Park: 241 km (150 miles)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCj9N30F6SUf0XvQcY1U5-ZM-IyIN7UOjYnLIaSJEilD-z67r81sJ5yri7gPc8J730Ta13L5HJShyphenhyphen0FNNugLw-q9NofOl_gD-2pUyxSK-48ZbHb2yPtt5R9pitkeD_95rTKyLgiXStYnzPsVSds4d9aTa31RO5x6K2xuBSWNY6MhocRE-8xg_fMldb7kj/s4032/bryce%20canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bryce Canyon National Park" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCj9N30F6SUf0XvQcY1U5-ZM-IyIN7UOjYnLIaSJEilD-z67r81sJ5yri7gPc8J730Ta13L5HJShyphenhyphen0FNNugLw-q9NofOl_gD-2pUyxSK-48ZbHb2yPtt5R9pitkeD_95rTKyLgiXStYnzPsVSds4d9aTa31RO5x6K2xuBSWNY6MhocRE-8xg_fMldb7kj/w640-h480/bryce%20canyon.jpg" title="Look at these hoodoos, carved over millennia by nature, at Bryce Canyon National Park." width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>4. Bryce Canyon National Park: 418 km (260 miles)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivyySNeRHmkS5Pk0hNk4n7Og7OmnBoJfi2l9X1jUYlxlz5uCL3yNAAVqvmFkFGnVj-yDlPSPoZOefJIKkUALwawOr32MGvIF7oAA0HC4X4pU4K0KdoMlafXfpNcvKVALAW4zmxb4f0Fp0ukE2xrvYDvXHn0enMTJgdCzhEbyZ_RHOYTmE4X2s0IKKwjDsx/s4032/horseshoe%20bend.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivyySNeRHmkS5Pk0hNk4n7Og7OmnBoJfi2l9X1jUYlxlz5uCL3yNAAVqvmFkFGnVj-yDlPSPoZOefJIKkUALwawOr32MGvIF7oAA0HC4X4pU4K0KdoMlafXfpNcvKVALAW4zmxb4f0Fp0ukE2xrvYDvXHn0enMTJgdCzhEbyZ_RHOYTmE4X2s0IKKwjDsx/w480-h640/horseshoe%20bend.jpg" title="It's impossible to describe the size of Horseshoe Bend, but it's so much bigger and more majestic in real life." width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>5. Horseshoe Bend in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area: 443 km (275 miles)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUjGyTiCw2p3pvfsqLHSMJmzGuCXjaudfR_wkzsDEdfLMMHNy1pXOhpe_IR9QrAsuWc6DH7SN0qBMmx4Ac1d_LMxJX2c4MKtepua5HgsvYwVE8ovPiSdYWuGvPFKqQbmuzmSsOUjwHAhkWo3hLoACkvc0wJEvDH5AMcmgibWOvIG-owvm4Wn1rc5oHzqT/s3780/antelope%20canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon in Arizona" border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUjGyTiCw2p3pvfsqLHSMJmzGuCXjaudfR_wkzsDEdfLMMHNy1pXOhpe_IR9QrAsuWc6DH7SN0qBMmx4Ac1d_LMxJX2c4MKtepua5HgsvYwVE8ovPiSdYWuGvPFKqQbmuzmSsOUjwHAhkWo3hLoACkvc0wJEvDH5AMcmgibWOvIG-owvm4Wn1rc5oHzqT/w512-h640/antelope%20canyon.jpg" title="Visiting Antelope Canyon in Arizona is an otherworldly experience." width="512" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>6. Antelope Canyon in Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park: 449 km (279 miles)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWP8-tfe_B_CT6U-tg5N-WdloPWN9cAa3_L98jwnngZXu_chUuMbQ3JEc6IEEkUaV7tkKdfAtI2AmONrsLMnJofTkHAyJ2zXFEbqPpT9eBP-XQsyPJgGUpo2Mwa2FT_GYtlt3D2WE11gqkN6oNZUmoOS7zvY2kpB3JsZsrOqm_gq_zKUgnTsVkxbEYXttm/s2798/grand%20canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Grand Canyon in Arizona" border="0" data-original-height="2798" data-original-width="1574" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWP8-tfe_B_CT6U-tg5N-WdloPWN9cAa3_L98jwnngZXu_chUuMbQ3JEc6IEEkUaV7tkKdfAtI2AmONrsLMnJofTkHAyJ2zXFEbqPpT9eBP-XQsyPJgGUpo2Mwa2FT_GYtlt3D2WE11gqkN6oNZUmoOS7zvY2kpB3JsZsrOqm_gq_zKUgnTsVkxbEYXttm/w360-h640/grand%20canyon.jpg" title="The Grand Canyon in all its majesty. Look at what millennia of water erosion, in this case by the Colorado River, can do!" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>7. Grand Canyon National Park: 440 (274 miles)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div>It’s possible to drive to all of these great parks in one trip but I wouldn’t recommend this unless you have lots of time. I’ve been to all of these parks, but I did it over three or four trips. There’s nothing worse than rushing.<br /><br />If you’re planning your own road trip and have about a week, I have a great itinerary that I followed recently on a road trip to Utah and Arizona. It’s one of my very favourites ever and the best part is, it’s easily amended to suit your tempo. <br /><br /><b>Start and end in Las Vegas:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>1. Las Vegas to Zion National Park (2.5 hours)<br /><br />2. Zion NP to Bryce Canyon National Park (1 hour, 45 minutes)<br /><br />3. & 4. Bryce Canyon NP to Antelope Canyon and Horsehoe Bend near Page, AZ (2.5 hours)<br /><br />5. Antelope/Horseshoe Bend to Las Vegas (4.5 hours)<br /><br />Make sure you slot in some time to relax. In an effort to be efficient with my days (ie. save money), I only allotted enough time for driving and seeing the sights. I allowed no time for lineups or for plain ol’ relaxation, and so everything felt more rushed than I wanted.<br /><br />I saw everything on my list but to be honest I would have loved a couple of afternoons to just lounge by the pool. I actually came home kind of exhausted.<br /><br />Comment below if you do a road trip like this ... I’d love to hear from you.<br /><br /><br /><br /><h3><span><span>MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/08/plan-your-trip-to-antelope-canyon-6-things-to-know.html" target="_blank">Plan your trip to Antelope Canyon</a></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/02/las-vegas-raiders-and-golden-knights-how-to-see-a-game.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Las Vegas is always a sure bet</a><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2022/12/best-things-to-do-off-the-las-vegas-strip.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The best things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip</a><br />MORE:<span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></h3><div><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br />Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0U.S. parks road trip39.3209801 -111.093731111.010746263821154 -146.2499811 67.631213936178852 -75.9374811tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-9246825744325663622024-02-01T18:43:00.000-08:002024-02-01T19:02:10.814-08:007 reasons Seattle is best in glass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmme_Q7NgVsh6lDHGXy7V7eIe5RS3yuYHrapcATO18nN3JiDK2J5KCoFvm_q2VB6TiuH1x5Jc9mGo2ZvYCImST8apsjGEk2KiSMwvGp4wTi6dNs7e9mnRuSRdiWCQA7HrQ2SLBPHzXGTBfvcdgeQfJp4byjh7AIEv24d-eWf8wOepyjwfPZg3HjV9k58Gw/s2926/2.%20Chihuly%20Garden%20and%20Glass%20exterior,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2926" data-original-width="2922" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmme_Q7NgVsh6lDHGXy7V7eIe5RS3yuYHrapcATO18nN3JiDK2J5KCoFvm_q2VB6TiuH1x5Jc9mGo2ZvYCImST8apsjGEk2KiSMwvGp4wTi6dNs7e9mnRuSRdiWCQA7HrQ2SLBPHzXGTBfvcdgeQfJp4byjh7AIEv24d-eWf8wOepyjwfPZg3HjV9k58Gw/w640-h640/2.%20Chihuly%20Garden%20and%20Glass%20exterior,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Whether you’re a glass enthusiast or just glass-curious, the Emerald City is a splendid destination.<span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><div>From tiny home studios to exquisite galleries, from the outstanding Chihuly Garden and Glass museum to the buzzy Refract festival, Seattle is a city that lives and breathes glass.<br /><br />Besides the world-renowned Dale Chihuly, more than 700 glass artists work in the Puget Sound region that encompasses Seattle. The region is also home to some 100 glass art studios and 38 glass art educational institutions, including the exceptional Pilchuk Glass School. After Netflix aired its reality glassmaking series titled Blown Away, Seattle’s star shone even more brilliantly.<br /><br />It’s no wonder the international Glass Art Society has recognized the Pacific Northwest as the premier hub for glass art in the U.S.<br /><br />Whether you’re a glass enthusiast or just glass-curious, it’s clear that Seattle is best in glass. Here are 7 reasons to visit:</div><div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Public art</h4>In this city, the glass experience begins right at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Get your luggage off the carousel but don’t leave before you view some of the art, such as Dick Weiss’s Cow on Its Side, a whimsical mosaic of sideways udders in Concourse D. </div><div><br /></div><div>When you get to the city centre, these pieces of free-to-see art by the glass master Chihuly top my list: Begin with the fiery six-metre-high glass structure titled Accendo, located in Seattle University’s Pigott Building. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then pop into the Sheraton Grand Seattle downtown for the remarkable collection of Chihuly art in a most unusual setting: the hotel lobby.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6nNiTmKCTeropdySjgJzBUAcET7o-QlWs-fFK5m7QbRU25hGQoqHAP1GmBfsMKbsLpBchHGaUxmzQp4pCPwBtEnuk5WnynqMsxIVBu_aKbwicvi3ALaEJ5AAF_IgUhyonK-e9aVvOsrkpNk9P6sn3orhYiH2Ws6OHmd04e07IN_s-avyaDD_jactSnN5/s3244/6.%20Seattle%20glass%20artist%20Karen%20Seymour%20in%20her%20home%20studio,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Karen Seymour creates lamps and other artworks in her basement kiln." border="0" data-original-height="3244" data-original-width="2433" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6nNiTmKCTeropdySjgJzBUAcET7o-QlWs-fFK5m7QbRU25hGQoqHAP1GmBfsMKbsLpBchHGaUxmzQp4pCPwBtEnuk5WnynqMsxIVBu_aKbwicvi3ALaEJ5AAF_IgUhyonK-e9aVvOsrkpNk9P6sn3orhYiH2Ws6OHmd04e07IN_s-avyaDD_jactSnN5/w480-h640/6.%20Seattle%20glass%20artist%20Karen%20Seymour%20in%20her%20home%20studio,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" title="Karen Seymour creates lamps and other artworks in her basement kiln." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">Karen Seymour creates lamps and other artworks in her basement kiln.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Refract festival</h4>In a city where glass is already celebrated, Refract: The Seattle Glass Experience casts an even brighter spotlight on the medium. </div><div><br /></div><div>“Refract opens it all up and makes artists more visible,” says Tracey Wickersham, senior director of cultural tourism with Visit Seattle. </div><div><br /></div><div>At this year’s festival, taking place Oct. 17-20, expect around 80 events including workshops, hotshop demonstrations and open houses, much of it free. Be ready to snag a coveted free ticket to tour The Boathouse, Dale Chihuly’s private studio and hotshop. </div><div><br /></div><div>Home studios open their doors, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the work of artists such as Milo Snyder, who’s known for his use of 3D printing technologies, and Karen Seymour, who creates lamps and other artworks in her basement kiln.</div><div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Museums</h4>My highlights list begins, of course, with the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum: With eight galleries, a lush garden and a breathtaking centrepiece called the Glasshouse, every facet of this Seattle crown jewel — even the unique gift shop — is a testament to Chihuly’s passion. </div><div><br /></div><div>“Dale and his vision, that’s the reason Seattle is the centre of ‘Glass America,’” says Michelle Bufano, the museum’s executive director. </div><div><br /></div><div>A short walk away from the Chihuly, check out the Seattle Art Museum’s experimental glass art pieces. In nearby Tacoma, the Museum of Glass features live glassblowing demonstrations and glassmaking experiences. And a ferry ride away, the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art focuses on many artists who specialize in glass.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAdvrO_GZoSs5ueVg6y3XyWtwJF6TEgmLxW2t1saa9RZBriQrMalD5rCEAGppT51RnBE01kTajGaO0rW2HY0O0lun6IQB2ung1Z3OfXNr6xuBlgZ9Ig3dlZP4zBaCl1xlyeUzGahtGEiGIJjp-xNqmUKpGAef23oy6m2f9oR8-TqGChDF_o8ZjZ6IkqQd/s3579/5.%20Indigenous%20blown%20glass%20artist%20Raven%20Skyriver,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The marine life artworks of Tlingit glass artist Raven Skyriver are a standout." border="0" data-original-height="3579" data-original-width="2684" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAdvrO_GZoSs5ueVg6y3XyWtwJF6TEgmLxW2t1saa9RZBriQrMalD5rCEAGppT51RnBE01kTajGaO0rW2HY0O0lun6IQB2ung1Z3OfXNr6xuBlgZ9Ig3dlZP4zBaCl1xlyeUzGahtGEiGIJjp-xNqmUKpGAef23oy6m2f9oR8-TqGChDF_o8ZjZ6IkqQd/w480-h640/5.%20Indigenous%20blown%20glass%20artist%20Raven%20Skyriver,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" title="The marine life artworks of Tlingit glass artist Raven Skyriver are a standout." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">The marine life artworks of Tlingit glass artist Raven Skyriver are a standout. </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Galleries</h4>Start your planning with Visit Seattle’s Glass Art Guide brochure, available online. My top picks: Head first to Lino Tagliapietra’s elegant showroom, by appointment only, to see the last dazzling pieces from the now-retired Italian master. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then walk a mile south to the Stonington Gallery, which has represented Indigenous artists in the Pacific Northwest for some 40 years. Many artists are shown here, but the marine life artworks of Tlingit glass artist Raven Skyriver are a standout. </div><div><br /></div><div>For Skyriver, who was born on Lopez Island in Washington, the liquid nature of molten glass made the medium a natural fit. “I always try to put motion in my art,” Skyriver said, and indeed, his freehand sculpted glass piece titled Bolt (Pacific Squid) looks as though it could dart away at any moment.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZbMjxqUIlCO-z1NLZu33Uu08ejXc4CmpcM5qNERw66o5g0zCSUhHUIwSaakPU9Rc-CZ2QRSFrZWV-sXrZMhfK4nJNzswTZ-G94dnqBn7KO7Tw2q9QMzgYehu6EFPEplzNRgV2Xc80ZZhHx97f7XGH3h3wAVNOunqTnD8Kam_XH1D8vZlMpxHjvgaBPk-/s3592/10.%20Writer%20Juanita%20Ng%20glassblowing,%20photo%20by%20Ui%20Robinson,%20Visit%20Seattle.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Seattle Glass: Instructor Malcolm Ford helps me create a stunning glass bowl." border="0" data-original-height="3592" data-original-width="2694" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZbMjxqUIlCO-z1NLZu33Uu08ejXc4CmpcM5qNERw66o5g0zCSUhHUIwSaakPU9Rc-CZ2QRSFrZWV-sXrZMhfK4nJNzswTZ-G94dnqBn7KO7Tw2q9QMzgYehu6EFPEplzNRgV2Xc80ZZhHx97f7XGH3h3wAVNOunqTnD8Kam_XH1D8vZlMpxHjvgaBPk-/w480-h640/10.%20Writer%20Juanita%20Ng%20glassblowing,%20photo%20by%20Ui%20Robinson,%20Visit%20Seattle.jpg" title="Seattle Glass: Instructor Malcolm Ford helps me create a stunning glass bowl." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instructor Malcolm Ford helps me create a stunning glass bowl.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Glassblowing experiences</h4>Channel your inner glassblower at Seattle Glassblowing Studio and design a piece of your choosing. Beyond the “wow” factor of creating art, it’s exhilarating to experience the energy of some of the younger artists who teach here. </div><div><br /></div><div>Instructor Malcolm Ford, who guided me as I created a decorative bowl with a scalloped rim, has been working with glass for nearly half of his life, starting with classes in middle school and later through formal training. “I’ll be doing glass until I can’t,” Ford told me. </div><div><br /></div><div>Other studios offering classes include Area 253 Glassblowing and Tacoma Glassblowing Studio.</div><div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Space Needle</h4>The views are endlessly Instagram-worthy but don’t forget that the Space Needle is also Seattle’s original and most iconic glass structure. </div><div><br /></div><div>In 2018, the Space Needle was made even better thanks to a renovation that added an open-air observation deck at the top with floor-to-ceiling glass panels that angle out for unobstructed 360-degree city vistas. You can even sit on Skyrisers, the glass benches affixed to barriers on the observation deck. </div><div><br /></div><div>Or, take the winding, circular stairway (made of glass, naturally) down to walk on the world’s first and only rotating glass floor, called the Loupe. I won’t lie — I needed a minute to work up the nerve to do this.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kVOSCEh79DvQ-075FjPLVdSCMN7ViJjTZCzHlgyRC-Dt_xvvU66LOH68V0OI5dVGUlyCcNY1WFcUB8lRpqCuFGdrY6lgNQVkMsvD0stamBQqK_ttYKN0K0kZzZesttolUXfFrH1_QutaK8eidz_m0vlePgQ-nMb7Bght-ta51cnxP-3z2R13mcBx8U6R/s3341/7.%20Seattle%20Central%20Library%20exterior,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3341" data-original-width="2673" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kVOSCEh79DvQ-075FjPLVdSCMN7ViJjTZCzHlgyRC-Dt_xvvU66LOH68V0OI5dVGUlyCcNY1WFcUB8lRpqCuFGdrY6lgNQVkMsvD0stamBQqK_ttYKN0K0kZzZesttolUXfFrH1_QutaK8eidz_m0vlePgQ-nMb7Bght-ta51cnxP-3z2R13mcBx8U6R/w512-h640/7.%20Seattle%20Central%20Library%20exterior,%20photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>The Seattle Central Library’s design routinely lands it on “best” lists around the world.</div><div><br style="text-align: start;" /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Architecture</h4>There’s plenty of glass to admire in the city’s buildings and one of the best ways to take it all in is with a walking tour from the Seattle Architecture Foundation. </div><div><br /></div><div>Of special note: The astonishing sight of Amazon’s Spheres, which are part of the company’s Seattle headquarters. The Spheres comprise three glass globes with 2,643 panes of glass that are part office space and part greenhouse, home to more than 40,000 plants from over 30 countries. (Free visits can be booked online.) </div><div><br /></div><div>You’ll also see many more buildings, including the Seattle Central Library, whose contemporary glass and steel design routinely lands it on “best” lists around the world.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><i>This article appears in the Victoria <a href="https://www.timescolonist.com/life/travel/travel-seattle-a-stunning-spot-to-soak-in-glass-art-8164959" target="_blank">Times-Colonist</a>. </i><i>Juanita was a guest of Visit Seattle, which did not preview or approve this story. </i><i><br /></i><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">IF YOU GO</h3>Planes, train, automobile, even ferry — it’s never been easier to travel to Seattle.<br /><br /><b>STAY: </b>The <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/seatn-astra-hotel-seattle-a-tribute-portfolio-hotel/overview/" target="_blank">Astra Hotel</a> is a superb, high-tech choice in a great location. Rooms are spacious and feel like they’ve been designed with intention. I enjoyed the wireless charger and touch lighting and I loved Sparky, the hotel robot that brought me room service items. Sparky is also a pro at bringing food delivery to guests. The hotel has a beautiful rooftop restaurant and bar with Space Needle views.<br /><br /><b>DINE:</b> For high-end dining, try <a href="https://aerlumeseattle.com/" target="_blank">Aerlume</a> for its scrumptious menu and views, as well as its collection of stunning glass art. For a meal on the go, I can’t say enough good things about <a href="https://www.ivars.com/" target="_blank">Ivar’s</a>, a seafood chain that’s a Seattle institution. Have the delectable fried clams!<br /><br /><b>PLAN:</b> Start your planning at <a href="https://visitseattle.org/" target="_blank">Visit Seattle</a></div><div>Info on <a href="https://refractseattle.org/" target="_blank">Refract: The Seattle Glass Experience</a>, including hotel packages<br />Details on public glass art, galleries and more: Download the <a href="https://refractseattle.org/" target="_blank">Glass Art Guide</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><div><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"><b>MAIN PHOTO: Chihuly Garden and Glass museum in Seattle.<br />ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Seattle, Washington47.6061389 -122.332848119.295905063821152 -157.4890981 75.916372736178843 -87.1765981tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-65002388840944616292024-01-25T16:55:00.000-08:002024-01-25T17:12:02.209-08:00Here's how to plan your visit to Park Guell in Barcelona<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoDoFA1VMTTU3WEVYygZsL8vzyfzFgHNvil18EJ-LDUWn-ZUMcCcsMU8AGBQRGNgsJbXmpL6gtxwWjNm6ge7bSUhumIq-oact3WabQArLM1lUp3ASUmugcWHprucLDvsROna4tNpMGmOwNFsW-ZPmJ68O1oixgQmfZyKChHNC3DmpzhEtwMNCI3xeArOw/s1018/park%20guell%20barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Park Guell in Barcelona is a must for your bucket list" border="0" data-original-height="1018" data-original-width="827" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoDoFA1VMTTU3WEVYygZsL8vzyfzFgHNvil18EJ-LDUWn-ZUMcCcsMU8AGBQRGNgsJbXmpL6gtxwWjNm6ge7bSUhumIq-oact3WabQArLM1lUp3ASUmugcWHprucLDvsROna4tNpMGmOwNFsW-ZPmJ68O1oixgQmfZyKChHNC3DmpzhEtwMNCI3xeArOw/w520-h640/park%20guell%20barcelona.jpg" title="Don't miss seeing Park Guell when you're in Barcelona." width="520" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Have you been to Park Guell? If you’re in Barcelona it would be tragic to miss seeing this sight.</h3><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p><b>Here are 6 things to know as you plan your visit:</b></p><p><b>WHAT IS PARK GUELL</b></p><p>Park Guell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Barcelona that was designed by Antoni Gaudi. It was originally a commercially unsuccessful housing site and became a park in 1926. <b>Fun fact:</b> Because ll is pronounced like y in Spanish, Park Guell is pronounced Park “Gway.”</p><p><b>DISTANCE FROM CITY CENTRE</b></p><p>It’s about 4.5 km from La Rambla and very walkable as it’s a mostly flat walk except at the end. It’s also easily accessible by metro and bus. I walked there from my La Rambla hotel and bused back.</p><p><b>BUY ADVANCE TIX</b></p><p>Don’t make my mistake — buy ahead! When my husband and I got to the park at 4:30 p.m., it was of course sold out for the day. But even worse, it was sold out for the next day also, and that was going to be our last day in Barcelona. Then by utter serendipity, we got in! But I’ll save that story for another day. Tickets for Park Guell and Sagrada Familia can be bought together for a reduced price.</p><p><b>HOURS & PRICES</b></p><p>The park is open every day, all year, but check the hours as those can change. Tickets have time slots; after 30 minutes your ticket is no good. You can stay as long as you like after you get in. Tickets are 10 euros for adults, and 7 euros for kids aged 7-12.</p><p><b>HOW LONG DO I NEED HERE?</b></p><p>Allow between 90 minutes and two hours. Put on good walking shoes to navigate the cobblestones and uneven stairs.</p><p><b>BEST VIEW</b></p><p>The iconic Park Guell view that can be seen all over Instagram — including in this reel — is at Nature Square, at the end of your route through the park. You need to watch the sun set over Barcelona from here! <br /><br /></p><h3>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/montserrat-monastery-spain-what-to-know.html" target="_blank">Montserrat monastery in Spain is a must-see day trip</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/la-rambla-barcelonas-most-famous-street.html" target="_blank">La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/12/My%20top%20travel%20essentials.html" target="_blank">Travel, but better: My top 6 travel essentials</a><br />MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/Pickpockets-and-scammers-europe-spain-italy-france.html" target="_blank">In Europe, watch for pickpockets and scammers</a><br /></span></h3><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Find more travel inspo on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></p><b>PHOTO OF PARK GUELL ©JUANITA NG</b><br />Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Barcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.16856813.077163563821152 -32.987682 69.697631236178836 37.324818tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-70231621809448898782024-01-22T10:25:00.000-08:002024-01-22T10:29:51.846-08:00In Europe, watch for pickpockets and scammers<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7Um25ar7lpSHwT4P-Ys0iSdgbLZI_StJFDw23H3dAHnxv0PNM04VopGGxxh8afOJ7X6u40YPEJ_JGX6MMOFJ4Z0WJL_TF7DWYYql4zNmGLSubaVrVU_ZmIvNdqGJ1uV1KE1jWQY5rGeqDVYlAzhUcmuIoAr7WWZALjzdeids8wknI7Tq2c1SdfdyIAdA/s2464/seville%20spain.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Plaza de Espana in Seville Spain" border="0" data-original-height="2464" data-original-width="2136" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz7Um25ar7lpSHwT4P-Ys0iSdgbLZI_StJFDw23H3dAHnxv0PNM04VopGGxxh8afOJ7X6u40YPEJ_JGX6MMOFJ4Z0WJL_TF7DWYYql4zNmGLSubaVrVU_ZmIvNdqGJ1uV1KE1jWQY5rGeqDVYlAzhUcmuIoAr7WWZALjzdeids8wknI7Tq2c1SdfdyIAdA/w554-h640/seville%20spain.jpg" title="Plaza de Espana in Seville, Spain is a gorgeous sight but watch for pickpockets and scammers" width="554" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">In Europe, tricksters abound. Whatever you do, don’t fall for the rosemary scam!</h3><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p>When I was at the Plaza de Espana in Seville, my tour guide warned our group about a common scam to watch out for. </p><p>This is the scam: Women will come up to you and offer you rosemary for good luck and a long life. Whatever you do, don’t take the rosemary or let them shove it in your hands. Because once you’re holding it, they will demand payment and make a scene if you don’t give them money. Even if you give them money, if they don’t think it’s enough they will continue to make a scene.</p><p>Pickpockets are also a concern, and these are some of the distraction techniques they might use:</p><p>👉🏻 A pickpocket takes a selfie, blocking a passageway and causing a lineup to form — thus creating a perfect “sitting duck” scenario for their partners.</p><p>👉🏻 A clumsy person bumps into a tourist and spills a drink on him. As the pickpocket is helping his mark to clean up, a partner is stealing his valuables.</p><p>👉🏻 A pickpocket asks you to sign a petition, then uses the clipboard to block the sight of his or her partner looting your bag or coat pocket.</p><p>👉🏻 A lost “tourist” asks for directions as you’re at the ATM. It might be legitimate, but it’s more likely that pickpockets are trying to steal your wallet or see your PIN.</p><p>Remember, most pickpockets work in groups and they are often adolescents. Some women will even have their babies with them.</p><div><br /></div><div><h3>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/montserrat-monastery-spain-what-to-know.html" target="_blank">Montserrat monastery in Spain is a must-see day trip</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/la-rambla-barcelonas-most-famous-street.html" target="_blank">La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/12/My%20top%20travel%20essentials.html" target="_blank">Travel, but better: My top 6 travel essentials</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html"><br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></h3><div><br /></div><div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></h4><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>PHOTO OF PLAZA DE ESPANA, SEVILLE, ©JUANITA NG<br /></b></div></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Seville, Spain37.3890924 -5.98445899.0788585638211572 -41.1407089 65.699326236178848 29.1717911tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-56226299523822555322024-01-20T08:32:00.000-08:002024-01-22T10:30:15.386-08:00A bit of toilet talk: I was surprised by ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9XBje7jRCxBr1RSTv15UWYHCWx6FiO6ZH5mlRU_qNzRc7W4ms69J5oMvHHf79SpI740r_aELwK-oAWmdxtRbeFiZKVlvSflvu7q2e-BA16ACQo-NRHE8YAYiiZyAoK0ddR_Wp6Sfw90U1ePEtHL4prNYcGeTJeHLLdq92VhnWi4pbvxJiAlS3-p1t_SX/s2391/cadiz%20spain.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sunset in Cadiz Spain's main square" border="0" data-original-height="2315" data-original-width="2391" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9XBje7jRCxBr1RSTv15UWYHCWx6FiO6ZH5mlRU_qNzRc7W4ms69J5oMvHHf79SpI740r_aELwK-oAWmdxtRbeFiZKVlvSflvu7q2e-BA16ACQo-NRHE8YAYiiZyAoK0ddR_Wp6Sfw90U1ePEtHL4prNYcGeTJeHLLdq92VhnWi4pbvxJiAlS3-p1t_SX/w640-h620/cadiz%20spain.jpg" title="Put Cadiz, Spain on your must-see list for the weather, the people and this stunning main square." width="640" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">I’m not usually a potty mouth but could we talk toilets for a moment?</h3><div style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span>I expected to have trouble finding bathrooms and to have to pay to use them when I was in Spain. But these were not issues at all: I never had trouble finding a restaurant bathroom when I stopped for coffee or a meal, and I never had to pay.<br /><br />But these things surprised me:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. IT’S A WC<br /></b>The first thing to know is that they’re not called bathrooms or restrooms or washrooms here. They’re usually marked by the letters WC, which is British and stands for “water closet.” “Toilet” seems to be universally understood, though.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. THEY’RE UNISEX<br /></b>The vast majority are gender-neutral. Some have one big bathroom comprising individual stalls and a common sink area. Other bathrooms have separate men’s and women’s areas, but again have the same shared sinks.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. TP<br /></b>Unlike what I’d read, my toilets always had seats, and every bathroom I used had toilet paper. I believe the seat-less toilets are more common in Portugal but every bathroom I used in Porto and Lisbon had toilet seats. I only ever saw a bidet in my hotel room.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><b>4. THE LIGHTS GO OUT<br /></b>Some bathrooms have motion-activated lighting to save on energy, and the lights only stay on for about a minute before you’re plunged into darkness. For goodness sakes, I can only go so fast! I have to admit I was totally freaked out the first time this happened to me. Compounding the issue is the fact that light switches are usually on the outside of the bathrooms here, and the first time I was sure someone had maliciously shut the lights off on me. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><b>5. CLEANLINESS<br /></b>Most of the bathrooms I used seemed to be either not that clean or just ok for cleanliness, even the ones in very nice restaurants and coffee shops. These toilets were all in touristy areas and my guess is that it’s just too hard to keep up with all the tourists!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/montserrat-monastery-spain-what-to-know.html" target="_blank">Montserrat monastery in Spain is a must-see day trip</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2024/01/la-rambla-barcelonas-most-famous-street.html" target="_blank">La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous street</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html"><br /></a>MORE: <span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/12/My%20top%20travel%20essentials.html" target="_blank">Travel, but better: My top 6 travel essentials</a></span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html"><br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></h3><div><br /></div><div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a></b></h4><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>PHOTO OF CADIZ, SPAIN ©JUANITA NG<br /></b></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Barcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.16856813.077163563821152 -32.987682 69.697631236178836 37.324818tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-45693305157607893952024-01-16T07:46:00.000-08:002024-01-16T07:54:16.846-08:00Montserrat monastery in Spain: 5 things to know<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisXPMlRGCizOblqa9_FiXawG3vfP2K0ExLsUE9Mrko3-4EYUSungRcNGQrinh7bCfYxTwqhDIHaN1bPEfxFEIfHuYnMduzA6pjyyiEWlYcLnwZkb8Iyb2xrBAdRlQA-5MLBx_QH6QZX22BvDIsXDHj3O7DKYxhC8cuKT3b5grroiUAH2qaMiMnAAs0S3bR/s2738/Montserrat%20Spain.jpg"><img alt="The Montserrat in Spain is a must-see sight" border="0" data-original-height="2199" data-original-width="2738" height="514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisXPMlRGCizOblqa9_FiXawG3vfP2K0ExLsUE9Mrko3-4EYUSungRcNGQrinh7bCfYxTwqhDIHaN1bPEfxFEIfHuYnMduzA6pjyyiEWlYcLnwZkb8Iyb2xrBAdRlQA-5MLBx_QH6QZX22BvDIsXDHj3O7DKYxhC8cuKT3b5grroiUAH2qaMiMnAAs0S3bR/w640-h514/Montserrat%20Spain.jpg" title="You absolutely must visit the Montserrat monastery in Spain. Here's how to do it" width="640" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">The Montserrat monastery in Spain is epic but it can be confusing getting there. Here's how to do it.</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><p>Top 5 things to know before visiting:</p><p><b>MONASTERY FAQ</b></p><p>The Montserrat monastery — proper name: Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey — was founded in 1025. It’s built against the Montserrat Mountain and the site is stunning. The monastery site includes two funiculars, a basilica and a museum. The Virgin of Montserrat, also known as the Black Madonna, is a revered figure in the basilica and I saw many people visibly moved for having seen it.</p><p><b>TRAIN TO MONTSERRAT</b></p><p>The Montserrat monastery is about 50 km (30 miles) from Barcelona. Plan for the better part of a day to visit.</p><p>1. Start at the Placa Espana rail station, which is easily accessible from throughout the city.</p><p>2. At Placa Espana, catch the R5 line towards Manresa. It’s not well signed.</p><p>3. Get off at the stop called Aeri de Montserrat to take the cable car up to the monastery.</p><p>4. Get off at the Monistrol de Monserrat stop (it’s the one after Aeri de Montserrat) if you plan to take the train (Cremallara de Montserrat) to the monastery.</p><p>5. Some people also get off the R5 train and then hike the rest of the way up to the monastery. (But why?! LOL)</p><p><b>TICKETS</b></p><p>You can buy tickets online or at the Placa Espana station, either from a vending machine or at a staffed ticket booth. You’ll have to choose whether you want the cable car ticket or the cremallera ticket. There is also a bundled Tot Montserrat ticket that includes a meal.</p><p><b>TEMPERATURE</b></p><p>Montserrat is 1,236 metres (4,055 ft) above the valley floor and is much cooler than Barcelona. Dress warmly and if there’s a chance of rain, bring an umbrella.</p><p><b>HOTEL</b></p><p>There is a hotel on the site, the Hostal Abat Cisneros, that dates back to 1563.<br /><br /><br /></p><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h3><div></div><div><b><br />PHOTO ©JUANITA NG</b></div><p><br /></p></h3><div><br /></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Barcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.168568-35.5792547666354 -138.456432 90 142.793568tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-91655849777948653652024-01-14T10:50:00.000-08:002024-01-22T10:30:40.805-08:00Banff road trip: Canada's most beautiful highway<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJa-iNal7rdoYejU_vF7lP1LT3KALPr6qISFdTBM9qSxvt_o0FRbl1jwUppFxzIa6NphV7sLxvbLUPiKBjeM_cCYYoguVn_8jL3o8U1VmAAOC0QrSDRgJs37YMyKmD5WeCTNKv7m57U2BD-ftoWaOjxQRh95HDMvd7NFPWaBbkIIaxQJU6gnD8nyvtwzK-/s686/banff%20jasper.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Banff Jasper road trip Columbia Icefields Parkway" border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="686" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJa-iNal7rdoYejU_vF7lP1LT3KALPr6qISFdTBM9qSxvt_o0FRbl1jwUppFxzIa6NphV7sLxvbLUPiKBjeM_cCYYoguVn_8jL3o8U1VmAAOC0QrSDRgJs37YMyKmD5WeCTNKv7m57U2BD-ftoWaOjxQRh95HDMvd7NFPWaBbkIIaxQJU6gnD8nyvtwzK-/w640-h640/banff%20jasper.jpg" title="The Columbia Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Banff could be Canada's most beautiful highway." width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">It’s been called Canada’s most beautiful highway and this moniker could well be true.</h3><p></p><p><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p>If you’re visiting the Canadian Rockies, don’t miss driving Highway 93 between Banff and Jasper national parks. The Icefields Parkway, as it is known, is a gorgeous 232-km highway that has been rated as one of the top drives in the world by Condé Nast Traveller.</p><p>If you drive straight through, it will take three hours. But plan for at least 5-6 hours with stops.</p><p>Here are my top five highlights, starting from Lake Louise (near Banff).</p><p>1. Peyto Lake & Bow Summit (44 km/27 miles) from Lake Louise</p><p>Glacier-fed Peyto Lake is the most visited and photographed lake in the Canadian Rockies. Glacial rock flow gives the lake its bright, turquoise colour.</p><p>2. Big Hill & Big Bend (115 km/71 miles from Lake Louise)</p><p>You’ll know when you get here. The descending road clings to the wall of a mountain and offers expansive views of the valley and river.</p><p>3. Columbia Icefield (128 km/80 miles from Lake Louise)</p><p>These glaciers are the largest south of the Arctic Circle. While you’re at the visitor centre (free to visit), buy a ticket to the Glacier Sky Walk, a glass-floored observation platform 280 metres (918 feet) over the Sunwapta Valley.</p><p>4. Athabasca Falls (200 km/124 miles from Lake Louise)</p><p>Among the most breathtaking and powerful falls in the Rockies, the Athabasca Falls are located 30 km south of the town of Jasper.</p><p>5. Maligne Canyon’s dramatic waterfalls and cavernous channels are a don’t-miss. The canyon is 15 minutes from the town of Jasper.</p><p><br /></p><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-hotels-in-vancouver-canada-near-the-cruise-ship-terminal-dock.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Best hotels in downtown Vancouver near the cruise ship dock</a><br />MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h3><div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><p><b>PHOTO ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div></h3>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Banff, Canada51.1784304 -115.570790322.868196563821158 -150.7270403 79.488664236178849 -80.4145403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-26622559405024542542024-01-05T15:30:00.000-08:002024-01-20T08:37:13.085-08:00La Rambla: Barcelona's most famous street<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPw9mt7WZukChkVhOkqh1m0Gc5dhwJWE6X8oc_ZCa-zb0hLExFw4zVM0bFo5l7qLaUz0dXfYKvKp3XU9Es6R9H4wMqkwhYLKr6A-CnW35JRYTtTMyp3eienQ_sRiKf_A6v5K_y7NIdL0pMicwZ-GX-r9ZB4VdVtFxcGxqWWGdL8HQHssdGJ1pDbRYrCrz7/s1144/Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Rambla is Barcelona's most famous street. Here's what you should know" border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="817" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPw9mt7WZukChkVhOkqh1m0Gc5dhwJWE6X8oc_ZCa-zb0hLExFw4zVM0bFo5l7qLaUz0dXfYKvKp3XU9Es6R9H4wMqkwhYLKr6A-CnW35JRYTtTMyp3eienQ_sRiKf_A6v5K_y7NIdL0pMicwZ-GX-r9ZB4VdVtFxcGxqWWGdL8HQHssdGJ1pDbRYrCrz7/w458-h640/Barcelona.jpg" title="La Rambla in Barcelona: A gorgeous, tree-lined pedestrian street well worth visiting." width="458" /></a></div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Have you visited La Rambla? It’s Barcelona's most famous street but I really didn’t know too much about it before I visited.</h3><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></span><p></p><p><b><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Here are 5 things I learned during my visit to Barcelona:</span></b></p><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>1. </b>La Rambla is a gorgeous pedestrian street with a ton of restaurants and great shopping across all price points. There are also side streets with more shopping and dining options. La Rambla’s shops and restaurants are more downscale (some might even say seedy) towards the port end.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>2.</b> The street is very wide but also very short — only 1.2 km long. At the north end you’ll find the Plaça de Catalunya, a beautiful square as well as the location of a central transit hub. At the south end is Port Vell, marked by a tall statue of Christopher Columbus (who was born in Italy and buried in Seville 🤷🏻♀️).</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>3.</b> The famous La Boqueria market is on La Rambla and it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s huge, with more than 200 vendors, and they’ve been around since 1836. You’ll find meat, fish and dairy products here as well as a ton of sweets and nuts that make fantastic souvenirs.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>4. </b>Look for Carrefour for grocery items, alcohol and all the toiletries you forgot to pack. Carrefour is a chain here and the La Rambla location is a multi-level building that doesn’t look like a grocery store at all so it’s easy to miss. In fact, our hotel was right across the street from the Carrefour and we were unaware it was a grocery store. 😅</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>5. </b>There are no harassing street vendors here, which was awesome. The only people you’ll have calling out to you are staff at the restaurants, asking you to dine at their eateries.</span><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><h3>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html">Best Instagram photo spots in New York<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></h3><div style="font-size: medium;"><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4></div></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Barcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.16856813.077163563821152 -32.987682 69.697631236178836 37.324818tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-57353607907162683572023-12-04T09:13:00.000-08:002023-12-04T09:21:10.303-08:00Travel, but better: My top 6 must-haves<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCAHcB1KhhxsbGbxBwz6m_ihWdnry9Ag0qx4aDgWJNe3QLFyEsCwJrUgZYuRNUXqYOQOBufCGFhIuU6Q_f77XOrMSsg1rqS0rFGKgCEsWfun4rxF8f05KkrYj7gHvhIxH4a1JL5E7P1Xd25RhCdZE7H7Q5UD7nHIpv37S9eK5eVSW6B1EvCCQ4rpwfk3Tx/s3335/Zion%20National%20Park.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Top travel essentials no matter where you're going" border="0" data-original-height="3335" data-original-width="2776" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCAHcB1KhhxsbGbxBwz6m_ihWdnry9Ag0qx4aDgWJNe3QLFyEsCwJrUgZYuRNUXqYOQOBufCGFhIuU6Q_f77XOrMSsg1rqS0rFGKgCEsWfun4rxF8f05KkrYj7gHvhIxH4a1JL5E7P1Xd25RhCdZE7H7Q5UD7nHIpv37S9eK5eVSW6B1EvCCQ4rpwfk3Tx/w532-h640/Zion%20National%20Park.jpg" title="My trusty water bottle, and other essentials, have travelled far and wide with me" width="532" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">I would be so lost without these “musts.” What are your travel essentials?</span><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><a name='more'></a></span></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;"></h2><p></p><p><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">📱 <b>AirTags:</b> I used these for the first time on my last trip and loved being able to track my luggage on my phone. But did you know there’s another great way to use them? They’re really handy for getting you back to your hotel when all the strange streets can look the same.</span></p><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">☁️ <b>iCloud storage:</b> Did you know 200 GB costs just $3.99 CAD/month? I’ve saved myself a ton of grief by paying this small amount and having enough room for all of my photos and videos.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">⚡️ <b>Power bank:</b> I cannot imagine travelling without my portable charger; shooting videos uses up so much juice.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">👂🏻 <b>Cheapo bluetooth earbuds: </b>Because I’m paranoid about losing things, I keep my Airpods at home but have bought Anker bluetooth earbuds for travel. >> I’m thinking about buying a bluetooth transmitter so I can watch airplane movies with my earbuds. Do you have one of these transmitters and is it worth the cost?</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">💦 <b>Empty water bottle: </b>I fill this up after clearing security. I’ve found most restaurants and lounges will fill your bottle with water and ice, if you’ve eaten there. There are also numerous water refilling stations in airports.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">📚<b> Reading app on phone:</b> I don’t read a lot while on vacation so rather than carry an ereader or book, I have three apps on my phone: Libby, Kobo and Kindle.</span><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b>STILL ON MY WISH LIST:</b></span></span></div><div><span face="-apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif"><div><span style="font-size: 14px;">1️⃣ Pickpocket-proof crossbody bag with anti-slash straps and locking compartments</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 14px;">2️⃣ Universal adaptor. The ones I have right now are continent-specific</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 14px;">3️⃣ Bluetooth transmitter so I can watch airplane movies with my wireless earbuds</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></span><div><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><div><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b>Photo: </b>Zion National Park, Utah</span></div></div><div><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><br /></div></div></div>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-24122176037942723832023-11-25T17:37:00.000-08:002023-12-04T09:13:49.317-08:00Travel, but better: How to pack more efficiently<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZxWyIuU38RVo4ugUzF4-OBILCjSYqXX98eB2nq5JpnppsTQdVZ2hQTXBw9kDmaVlsi8BVv8JfYSaBZbPXH7uZnYAawwBQjbeiiwxH8su1ROnnGYBs8C2Y7HrQCCNEeYXlLTf2A-8uQM0hD96ebQ8oU0XqmMkgIHAbP9JKlMmnn4wF1f8yE4qPu4B0B0U/s3480/travel%20packing%20tips%20pack%20better.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tips for packing better when you travel" border="0" data-original-height="3480" data-original-width="2610" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZxWyIuU38RVo4ugUzF4-OBILCjSYqXX98eB2nq5JpnppsTQdVZ2hQTXBw9kDmaVlsi8BVv8JfYSaBZbPXH7uZnYAawwBQjbeiiwxH8su1ROnnGYBs8C2Y7HrQCCNEeYXlLTf2A-8uQM0hD96ebQ8oU0XqmMkgIHAbP9JKlMmnn4wF1f8yE4qPu4B0B0U/w480-h640/travel%20packing%20tips%20pack%20better.jpg" title="Whether you travel carry on-only or you check a bag, here's how to pack better." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Whether you travel carry-on or you check your luggage, do you know the Golden Rule of packing? </h3><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p>Basically, it’s this: Take half the clothes you were planning to, and bring twice the money.</p><p>It’s a great rule but hard to follow. I mean, we want options, right? 😅 And also, I don't happen to have "twice the money." </p><p>If you're like me — clothing-rich and actual money-poor — you might find my favourite packing tips helpful. Let me know what you think, and add your best tips in the comments.</p><p><b>1.</b> Use the 5-4-3-2-1 clothing countdown. For a one-week trip, this generally translates to 5 sets of socks and underwear, 4 tops, 3 bottoms, 2 pairs of shoes and 1 hat. Adjust this list to suit your needs, obviously. I always add more undergarments, a bathing suit and a dress. I pack with an overarching colour scheme so I can mix and match.</p><p><b>2.</b> I hold up each item before I pack it and ask: “Would I wear this at home?” This has helped me immeasurably in terms of culling. Then at the end of each trip, I take note of what I didn’t wear and I don’t pack those items in the future. </p><p><b>3. </b>When I decant liquids like lotions and foundations, I fill my containers at home first, use them and note how much of each item I use. This way I’ll only bring as much as I actually need for my trip. I’ve also read about shampoo bars and toothpaste pills being helpful, but I always just use the hotel’s shampoo, and I’m not sure I want to use toothpaste pills just yet. I’ve also read about laundry sheets but so far I haven’t done any laundry in my hotel. But these are all good options to consider.</p><p><b>4.</b> Packing cubes! I know not everyone loves these but I find them invaluable for keeping like items together. They also help me to save room in my luggage. It's important to note that your clothes will still weigh the same amount even if they’re more organized so if luggage weight is an issue, be aware of this. If it’s a shorter trip, I’ll also use each cube to hold one specific outfit, fully accessorized.</p><p><b>5.</b> No extras. I’ve gotten pretty ruthless about not packing “just in case” items. If my sunglasses break, I’ll just buy another pair. I followed this rule on my recent trip to Spain and Portugal and I’m happy I did. The only time I wished I’d packed an extra thing was when it rained and I didn’t have my umbrella. But you know what? My hotel had one to loan! </p><h4 style="text-align: left;">What's your best packing tip? Comment below.<br /><br /><br /></h4><h3>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html">Best Instagram photo spots in New York<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></h3><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h4><p><br /></p><p><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></p></h4>Travellin galhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12668206422513945760noreply@blogger.com0Europe54.5259614 15.255118726.215727563821154 -19.9011313 82.836195236178838 50.4113687tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-40055993531847411062023-08-30T15:39:00.014-07:002023-08-30T16:24:03.448-07:00Quebec City and Montreal: A taste of Europe in Canada<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZl9Qz6ZYzyN5uvKM9MmemXkp6jpMy-IlenoiysLveAJ4lntdd8GfmuFsKSidT6fGWgq_4nbyzZb_xQWjk4QqtKWf3LXnDkNHwmJ_9_y_bUZaWg2wn25_mysvlIl5uHFf2_lsK_6nkkHxd7D71HFfy2JC-921692yGZ_eDeKFQIfKEVlHI3rkRSM34spc/s3986/9%20Quebec%20City%20panorama,%20Photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Quebec City at dawn: Panoramic view" border="0" data-original-height="2661" data-original-width="3986" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZl9Qz6ZYzyN5uvKM9MmemXkp6jpMy-IlenoiysLveAJ4lntdd8GfmuFsKSidT6fGWgq_4nbyzZb_xQWjk4QqtKWf3LXnDkNHwmJ_9_y_bUZaWg2wn25_mysvlIl5uHFf2_lsK_6nkkHxd7D71HFfy2JC-921692yGZ_eDeKFQIfKEVlHI3rkRSM34spc/w640-h428/9%20Quebec%20City%20panorama,%20Photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" title="Quebec City at dawn: Panoramic view of a historic treasure as it awakens." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">A visit to Quebec City and Montreal is like a trip to Europe, only without the travel chaos.<br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><p>What would you say if I told you there was a place in Canada that, cobblestone for cobblestone, could give France a run for its money — only without the crazy travel and where your loonie is still happily accepted at par?</p><p>Well, I think you’d say “oui, s’il vous plait” as quickly as possible, wouldn’t you?</p><p>And so it was that I found myself in Montreal and Quebec City recently, camera and Yeti in hand, ready to savour a taste of Europe in my own country. I’d visited before but this time my goal was to explore some lesser-known gems, and to uncover a few secrets that would enrich my experience.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQHxiCNWeP6CUa5cJOCceClOHjtH10qm1ZGr7Vdwlq_MbNkMODOUT8Tjmn_qKSACUz711kQTGB6BMQFGop_VuJ4CYWSpeUjQUdNTYoU7i-SJ3TQ1Wr281eTIlJAPVi20pCCeQu-4sJXSe0QbQxwOAy1G573151zMBc9rBAs-A5FKDD9ChRMsZZOfCSwY/s3588/4%20Leonard%20Cohen%20mural,%20Photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Leonard Cohen mural in Montreal" border="0" data-original-height="3588" data-original-width="2914" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQHxiCNWeP6CUa5cJOCceClOHjtH10qm1ZGr7Vdwlq_MbNkMODOUT8Tjmn_qKSACUz711kQTGB6BMQFGop_VuJ4CYWSpeUjQUdNTYoU7i-SJ3TQ1Wr281eTIlJAPVi20pCCeQu-4sJXSe0QbQxwOAy1G573151zMBc9rBAs-A5FKDD9ChRMsZZOfCSwY/w520-h640/4%20Leonard%20Cohen%20mural,%20Photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" title="Don't miss the murals along Saint Laurent Boulevard in Montreal." width="520" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The murals around Saint Laurent Boulevard are a must-see, especially this one of Leonard Cohen. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Whether it’s your first or fifth time in Montreal, lace up your sneakers and start with a good walking tour. The <a href="https://spadeandpalacio.com/" target="_blank">Spade & Palacio</a> tour called Beyond the Basilica sounded exactly like what I hoped to achieve on this trip. I know it hit the mark because weeks later, I still have a highlights reel looping through my head: The hot pink concrete artwork called Lipstick Forest, the retro ties dangling from the ceiling of the eclectic Eva B thrift shop, superb murals along Saint Laurent Boulevard (hey, Leonard Cohen), savoury pork baos in Chinatown and so much more.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDh5I9IemREotLOFojOTx5D8UaEj6s6Hlb8fPqbM8QGGCwQwjNbjSxcHMHSkJZyZiXrlhNrgUtp6dSpF4wEW-8nJFoNLNQJRzMffdy9osUao51DBNFFNuQr9H9w-ijzGOUPa6wvhQ2yJ-M5CRzcUrAkXpG9dQjjXV0uCFbWPhJAslZW0ad6SXDiRUkjU/s4200/1%20Port%20of%20Montreal%20Tower,%20Photo%20by%20St%C3%A9phan%20Poulin,%20Tourisme%20Montr%C3%A9al.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Old Port of Montreal at dusk with the new Port of Montreal Tower in foreground." border="0" data-original-height="2810" data-original-width="4200" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDh5I9IemREotLOFojOTx5D8UaEj6s6Hlb8fPqbM8QGGCwQwjNbjSxcHMHSkJZyZiXrlhNrgUtp6dSpF4wEW-8nJFoNLNQJRzMffdy9osUao51DBNFFNuQr9H9w-ijzGOUPa6wvhQ2yJ-M5CRzcUrAkXpG9dQjjXV0uCFbWPhJAslZW0ad6SXDiRUkjU/w640-h428/1%20Port%20of%20Montreal%20Tower,%20Photo%20by%20St%C3%A9phan%20Poulin,%20Tourisme%20Montr%C3%A9al.jpg" title="The gleaming new Port of Montreal Tower is a striking addition to the city's skyline." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gleaming new Port of Montreal Tower is a striking addition to the city's skyline. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I’ve always felt there was a bit of French goddess in me, so a <a href="https://lepetitnavire.ca/" target="_blank">Le Petit Navire</a> boat tour seemed like a perfect way to see the Old Port and also channel my inner Juliette Binoche. I had the wind in my hair and a glass of wine in hand ... but quel dommage, my chic meter refused to budge. The tour was marvellous, though! From the water the gleaming <a href="https://www.port-montreal.com/en/grand-quay/tower" target="_blank">Port of Montreal Tower</a> is the obvious star, with its striking design that adds such a contemporary swagger to the skyline. The tower itself is also worth visiting for its panoramic views; if you dare, inch your way onto the glass platform that’s suspended 50 metres in air.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxpm-GALFk7mBUUSADYvCZBTWz57ZNePgNatzNYJspHMndGZi8Fqg66R5WJcJrUY1QAzOyvk_NWqd-deQzVN83uMf4RAoXl31QmNsWCtKYbUZTQxEKxiImPUGS9psvi8kd7_LELIHtahaTwoTCDSCqYZMnqjSmeiyTVgd6693Mz5ko6XysvW1llaOG04/s3600/3%20Frederic%20Back%20Park,%20Photo%20by%20Fr%C3%A9d%C3%A9rique%20M%C3%A9nard-Aubin,%20Ville%20de%20Montr%C3%A9al.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Frederic-Back Park in Montreal" border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWxpm-GALFk7mBUUSADYvCZBTWz57ZNePgNatzNYJspHMndGZi8Fqg66R5WJcJrUY1QAzOyvk_NWqd-deQzVN83uMf4RAoXl31QmNsWCtKYbUZTQxEKxiImPUGS9psvi8kd7_LELIHtahaTwoTCDSCqYZMnqjSmeiyTVgd6693Mz5ko6XysvW1llaOG04/w640-h426/3%20Frederic%20Back%20Park,%20Photo%20by%20Fr%C3%A9d%C3%A9rique%20M%C3%A9nard-Aubin,%20Ville%20de%20Montr%C3%A9al.jpg" title="Frederic-Back Park, previously a landfill in Montreal, has been rehabilitated as an urban oasis." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frederic-Back Park, previously a landfill in Montreal, has been rehabilitated as an urban oasis.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>“But where is the Alien Park?“ When you hear these words in Montreal, it’s a reference to <a href="https://montreal.ca/lieux/parc-frederic-back" target="_blank">Frederic-Back Park</a>, my favourite discovery. At one time a quarry, then a landfill, today this 200-hectare site is being rehabilitated as a verdant oasis with picnic sites, lookouts and free bicycle and scooter rentals. It’s so fun that the alien-looking bio-gas capture wells have unexpectedly become an Instagram darling.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBOCVzmZZa65-Td3jClOXUQxjrUkHSgZ_HTs6_Ie8xXRnxOPTDA2_66jWO5uf1YftBZt9jmXRZ1TbR0CTJ_OqgehOtF5wMXFA03z1R1vEC3a4s8rG09g7pUC4z2l74OoFr50hGacitZYOueSg13EV9h0rXHBVvAf9DewhnVbO6Mrzc9XSaZ-vbiIQ44g/s5323/5%20Giant,%20Photo%20by%20Eva%20Blue,%20Tourisme%20Montreal%E2%80%AF.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Giant in Montreal is a stage for incredible aerial circus feats." border="0" data-original-height="3571" data-original-width="5323" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPBOCVzmZZa65-Td3jClOXUQxjrUkHSgZ_HTs6_Ie8xXRnxOPTDA2_66jWO5uf1YftBZt9jmXRZ1TbR0CTJ_OqgehOtF5wMXFA03z1R1vEC3a4s8rG09g7pUC4z2l74OoFr50hGacitZYOueSg13EV9h0rXHBVvAf9DewhnVbO6Mrzc9XSaZ-vbiIQ44g/w640-h430/5%20Giant,%20Photo%20by%20Eva%20Blue,%20Tourisme%20Montreal%E2%80%AF.jpg" title="The 16-metre-tall steel structure called Giant acts as a living stage for incredible circus arts acts." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 16-metre-tall steel structure called Giant acts as a living stage for incredible circus arts acts.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>If bendy acrobats are your thing, fasten your safety harness and hold on tight. Sure, Montreal is famous for Cirque du Soleil, but it’s also home to the annual <a href="https://montrealcompletementcirque.com/en/" target="_blank">Montreal Completement Cirque</a> and you’ll find spinning Cyr wheel performers, trapeze artists and every manner of performer everywhere. Eye-popping shows were even being staged on the 16-metre-tall steel Giant in downtown Montreal. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMr_DLvO5A6_2-Qf3lAOhLYGYHUfgN5i1hAoxqneYk319r5qaDOA3-qsZRhsyruHxhLnxd-O22w3ERSASBfBDxRXjvIRNsHNmjyjaL1lhwDyYrSLOrrXnoaIS41ZLXTJVVUuXEP99Ay11Q5HqB1zcWovsfu5PMgkuJXd77QMo4lfhBC_EeW4H_kwMnOb0/s5472/2%20Montreal%20International%20Jazz%20Festival,%20Photo%20by%20Eva%20Blue,%20Tourisme%20Montreal.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Montreal Jazz Festival crowd at night" border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMr_DLvO5A6_2-Qf3lAOhLYGYHUfgN5i1hAoxqneYk319r5qaDOA3-qsZRhsyruHxhLnxd-O22w3ERSASBfBDxRXjvIRNsHNmjyjaL1lhwDyYrSLOrrXnoaIS41ZLXTJVVUuXEP99Ay11Q5HqB1zcWovsfu5PMgkuJXd77QMo4lfhBC_EeW4H_kwMnOb0/w640-h426/2%20Montreal%20International%20Jazz%20Festival,%20Photo%20by%20Eva%20Blue,%20Tourisme%20Montreal.jpg" title="Did you know that fully two-thirds of Montreal International Jazz Festival shows are free to attend?" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">Did you know that fully two-thirds of Montreal International Jazz Festival shows are free to attend?</span></td><td class="tr-caption"><br /> <br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I think the best-kept secret, though, has to be the fact that so much of the renowned <a href="https://www.montrealjazzfest.com/en-CA" target="_blank">Montreal International Jazz Festival</a> is free to see — in fact, fully two-thirds of the 350+ shows are unticketed events. This summer, thousands attended concerts by the likes of Thundercat, Vance Joy and Ibrahim Maalouf, all gratis. </p><p>When I arrived in Quebec City a couple of days later, I learned it’s almost as crazy cheap to attend the <a href="https://www.feq.ca/en" target="_blank">Festival d’ete de Quebec</a>. An 11-day transferable pass to 175 concerts this year cost just $140. That works out to less than $13/day to see acts like Green Day, Foo Fighters and Lana Del Ray among others playing on the historic Plains of Abraham. Music lovers, start your planning now!</p><p>Evening concerts are always a bit cooler but to beat the heat in daytime, take a dip in the new infinity pool at Promenade Samuel-De Champlain. The illusion of swimming in the St. Lawrence River is fantastic, and it’s free. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wwJerdARroO2lqE9BVlnwYyryvWBHn4D6gY3UPlyDkKg9kkZQMbGLBd1kneZtFv1wvFxxi55uZwTGDTha5v2PmZYm0WmOcizS4xBPMgMXOMHbXUcmtYuM-zk-wlffFL6HQ-5QDOIsKr5qlAvU6GxxtaBu8KjMPtG_T6mmiKiB8FZzOS6FGU_594NigI/s3780/Guardian%20The%20Great%20and%20Lonely%20God.JPEG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Guardian: The Lonely and Great God" border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wwJerdARroO2lqE9BVlnwYyryvWBHn4D6gY3UPlyDkKg9kkZQMbGLBd1kneZtFv1wvFxxi55uZwTGDTha5v2PmZYm0WmOcizS4xBPMgMXOMHbXUcmtYuM-zk-wlffFL6HQ-5QDOIsKr5qlAvU6GxxtaBu8KjMPtG_T6mmiKiB8FZzOS6FGU_594NigI/w512-h640/Guardian%20The%20Great%20and%20Lonely%20God.JPEG" title="The famous red door popularized by the Korean TV series Guardian: The Lonely and Great God." width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">The famous red door popularized by the Korean TV series </span>Guardian: The Lonely and Great God<span style="text-align: left;">.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>My ebike tour with <a href="https://quebecfatbike.com/" target="_blank">Tuque & Bicycle Experiences</a> was another fun heat-buster, a ride with history lessons and a pop culture component built in. I even got to see the famous red door popularized by the Korean TV series <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guardian:_The_Lonely_and_Great_God" target="_blank">Guardian: The Lonely and Great God</a>. This “magic portal” (actually the back door of a theatre) has helped spawn a fervour that’s brought thousands of Asian fans to the city.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNOKV4uNmC-FaN8tNMyYCUwquBrTOL7EE0YnFmCWru7d0aYIFpZweNuFh1kjfzbNk2V6V2WW2wChQNoIpNseUFy8Tb9656gmdSX1kUXJNmx3RFihfbn4yWIiVAdWGKpMdrew92JD02QuPV-AD21U1UOhLk65E5qK1q24jX3pEwIQZd0_YSHQ-s9k4I84/s5466/6%20Hotel%20Musee%20Premieres%20Nations,%20Photo%20by%20Stephane%20Groleau.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations in Wendake, Quebec" border="0" data-original-height="2307" data-original-width="5466" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijNOKV4uNmC-FaN8tNMyYCUwquBrTOL7EE0YnFmCWru7d0aYIFpZweNuFh1kjfzbNk2V6V2WW2wChQNoIpNseUFy8Tb9656gmdSX1kUXJNmx3RFihfbn4yWIiVAdWGKpMdrew92JD02QuPV-AD21U1UOhLk65E5qK1q24jX3pEwIQZd0_YSHQ-s9k4I84/w640-h270/6%20Hotel%20Musee%20Premieres%20Nations,%20Photo%20by%20Stephane%20Groleau.jpg" title="The Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations includes an on-site museum and longhouse." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">The </span>Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations includes <span style="text-align: left;">an on-site museum and longhouse.<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p>If you’re intrigued by Indigenous culture, you could easily spend a day or night in <a href="https://tourismewendake.ca/en/" target="_blank">Wendake</a>, a Huron-Wendat Nation urban reserve just 15 km from downtown Quebec City. Indigenous tourism is on the rise, and businesses are stepping up to meet the demand. The <a href="https://hotelpremieresnations.ca/" target="_blank">Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations</a>, with an on-site museum and longhouse, is wrapping up a $13-million rejuvenation to better showcase its brand of experiential hospitality. At <a href="https://bastienindustries.ca/en" target="_blank">Bastien Industries</a>, where moccasins have been made since 1878, owner Jason Picard-Binet is focusing on fashion as the way forward and counting on his company’s reputation to underpin that growth. And <a href="https://sagamite.com/en/succursales/sagamite-wendake/" target="_blank">Sagamite restaurant</a>, which opened in 1999, continues to win new devotees with its sublime Indigenous menu.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuGiNQRE127AdcgoUQgP24msMRdO74IGY0McbMYVKDxhqU4Q5pHiQtER6QUdYVVYkzhLJr7rv7NSYSe05dUfZ8bpOgvyyWJ4jzK90ArDM3LAJOQv_WaMBHEqHI9yJpi5d0S1h2K6L5qRmfjPCO3M3Ubk12nca7JpqDyP-IbKSboMIRCdVkvqasSRnxsE/s3941/10%20Le%20101%20Restaurant%20de%20quartier,%20Photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Charles Gignac, owner-chef of Le 101 Restaurant de quartier, with a William oyster from Quebec." border="0" data-original-height="3941" data-original-width="2956" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifuGiNQRE127AdcgoUQgP24msMRdO74IGY0McbMYVKDxhqU4Q5pHiQtER6QUdYVVYkzhLJr7rv7NSYSe05dUfZ8bpOgvyyWJ4jzK90ArDM3LAJOQv_WaMBHEqHI9yJpi5d0S1h2K6L5qRmfjPCO3M3Ubk12nca7JpqDyP-IbKSboMIRCdVkvqasSRnxsE/w480-h640/10%20Le%20101%20Restaurant%20de%20quartier,%20Photo%20by%20Juanita%20Ng.jpg" title="Charles Gignac, owner-chef of Le 101 Restaurant de quartier, with a William oyster from Quebec." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charles Gignac, the owner and chef of the exquisite Le 101 Restaurant de quartier.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Indeed, it seems like the culinary arts are thriving all over. In Quebec City, keep your eyes open or you’ll miss <a href="https://jjacques.ca/" target="_blank">jjacques</a>’ warehouse-like door with doorbell that diners must ring to enter. Beyond the speakeasy vibe, it’s all dark wood, golden tones and the happy chatter of diners (quite possibly oohing over the artistry of the seafood tower). And for sheer “wow” you can’t top the fresh, French cuisine of chef Charles Gignac and his team at <a href="https://le101restaurant.com/" target="_blank">Le 101 Restaurant de quartier</a>. Impressively, many ingredients come from Le 101’s garden, and the open kitchen means diners can see the attention that’s paid in the creation of every dish. </p><p>Back in Montreal, the Marriott Chateau Champlain’s stylish <a href="https://www.opentable.ca/r/terrasse-belvu-montreal" target="_blank">Terrasse Belvu</a> is a standout with an extensive menu that includes numerous vegetarian options. After sampling the Tropezienne I have a new dessert standard, and the bar is high.</p><p>In fact, wherever you dine, or sightsee, or take in a show, it’s tough to make a bad choice in Montreal and Quebec City. I think this may have been my best discovery.</p><p>So do yourself a favour: The next time the travel bug bites, forget Paris. Instead, book a flight to la belle province and experience the best of France right here in your own country. Bon voyage!</p><p><i>This article originally ran in the <a href="https://www.timescolonist.com/life/travel/in-montreal-and-quebec-city-hidden-gems-abound-7380007" target="_blank">Victoria Times Colonist</a>.</i></p><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">IF YOU GO</h2><b>MONTREAL</b><p><b>STAY</b>: Fresh off a years-long, top-to-bottom reno, the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yulcc-montreal-marriott-chateau-champlain/overview/" target="_blank">Montreal Marriott Chateau Champlain</a> is a superb choice. The hotel has a direct entrance to the city’s subway system, so sightseeing is a breeze. </p><p><b>DINE</b>: Shoutout to <a href="https://sat.qc.ca/en/foodlab#section" target="_blank">Labo Culinaire</a> for its locally sourced menus and tasty cod fritters. For lunch or supper, <a href="https://pizzeriagema.com/en/" target="_blank">Pizzeria GEMA</a> is my pick for its vibe and that crust. If you’re looking for upscale dining, check out <a href="https://lemoliere.com/" target="_blank">Le Molière par Mousso</a>.</p><p><b>PLAN</b>: <a href="https://www.mtl.org/en" target="_blank">Tourisme Montreal</a></p><p><br /></p><p><b>QUEBEC CITY</b></p><p><b>STAY</b>: You won’t find a prettier view than from the newly and fully renovated <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/yqbhihh-hilton-quebec/" target="_blank">Hilton Quebec</a>. Come for the vistas of Old Quebec City, stay for the gorgeous rooms and heated rooftop pool. </p><p><b>DINE</b>: A big chef’s kiss to <a href="https://lorygine.com/?lang=en" target="_blank">Bistro L’Orygine</a> for its elegant decor and next-level brunch menu.</p><p><b>PLAN</b>: <a href="https://www.quebec-cite.com/en" target="_blank">Quebec Cite</a></p><p><br /></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/02/fairmont-chateau-frontenac-in-quebec.html">Fairmont Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html">Best Instagram photo spots in New York<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></h3><div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b><i>PHOTO CREDITS</i></b></p><p><i>Quebec City panorama by Juanita Ng, Leonard Cohen mural by Juanita Ng, Port of Montreal <span style="text-align: center;">by Stéphan Poulin of Tourisme Montreal, Frederic Back Park by </span><span style="text-align: center;">Frederique Menard-Aubin of Ville de Montreal, Giant by </span><span style="text-align: center;">Eva Blue of Tourisme Montreal, Montreal International Jazz Festival by Eva Blue of Tourisme Montreal, </span><span style="text-align: center;">Guardian: The Lonely and Great God by Juanita Ng, </span><span style="text-align: center;">Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations</span><span style="text-align: center;"> by Stephane Groleau, </span><span style="text-align: center;">Charles Gignac of Le 101 Restaurant de quartier by Juanita Ng</span></i></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="text-align: center;"></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Québec, Canada46.8130816 -71.20745959999999322.738870685805971 -106.36370959999999 70.88729251419403 -36.051209599999993tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-60758496307152492022023-08-07T11:32:00.003-07:002024-01-16T08:01:36.780-08:00Plan your trip to Antelope Canyon: 6 Things to Know<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v8VE7DXK-E0VzBPVigoo7ZUr75nNOil3491pZeXp7NBMfWIM8eyRoxD46BIu0cNX_y5GY0m7EdYTumoAG6rIGssM8MluhcB8xBWsVDu9CTKrEATMhBvod9Ug7uE4a3j1yNrG45iucMExbJBU_KktjI9gqTCgTkCZEdAFZtisioBEezpDt1kORLlDppg/s1459/Ghostly%20and%20stunning%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon: Things to know as you plan your trip" border="0" data-original-height="1459" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v8VE7DXK-E0VzBPVigoo7ZUr75nNOil3491pZeXp7NBMfWIM8eyRoxD46BIu0cNX_y5GY0m7EdYTumoAG6rIGssM8MluhcB8xBWsVDu9CTKrEATMhBvod9Ug7uE4a3j1yNrG45iucMExbJBU_KktjI9gqTCgTkCZEdAFZtisioBEezpDt1kORLlDppg/w364-h640/Ghostly%20and%20stunning%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" title="Isn't this scene at Antelope Canyon so otherworldly?" width="364" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="text-align: left;">Have you ever been to a slot canyon? I visited Antelope Canyon near Page, Arizona recently and it felt truly otherworldly.</h3><p><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><b><br /></b><div><b>If you’re planning a visit, here are 6 things to know:</b><p></p><p><b>1.</b> Antelope Canyon is on Navajo land and all visits must be booked through one of seven tour companies. You can book at <a href="https://navajonationparks.org/" target="_blank">navajonationparks.org</a>. Antelope Canyon is about a 10-minute drive from <a href="https://cityofpage.org/" target="_blank">Page, Arizona</a>.</p><p><b>2.</b> You can choose a tour for Upper Antelope or Lower Antelope. Upper has deeper canyon walls and is an easier walk than Lower, which has lots of stairs. I did the Upper tour and the actual walk through the canyon was about .25 of a mile. Visitors must hike up and then down a walkway upon exiting the canyon; this is an additional distance of about .75 of a mile.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvP0Ijp0hT5RfgecJ1BXzKOI1hK-8RP8AfOjJiHTSMtmTwLDQCuD44yqOUKfjxDAqCHf6HhwVAAtKlo8kPWfaOdqQphooMD_rdNYEX9aoqb7eokUx_AZW5qd-uVdektw_-WlFrSh1xJGfdmq8XqTKvNJPX8T5iFaF9RUYQgev5e_FNW9raSngHWVm4Vcc/s4032/Entry%20to%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon: Things to know as you plan your trip" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvP0Ijp0hT5RfgecJ1BXzKOI1hK-8RP8AfOjJiHTSMtmTwLDQCuD44yqOUKfjxDAqCHf6HhwVAAtKlo8kPWfaOdqQphooMD_rdNYEX9aoqb7eokUx_AZW5qd-uVdektw_-WlFrSh1xJGfdmq8XqTKvNJPX8T5iFaF9RUYQgev5e_FNW9raSngHWVm4Vcc/w480-h640/Entry%20to%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" title="Would you believe this is the entry to stunning Antelope Canyon?" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Would you believe this nondescript entrance leads to the stunning Antelope Canyon?</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><b>3.</b> We were transported three miles to the canyon via a truck; we sat in the open but covered truck cab. Our guide was awesome and showed us how to take the best photos and also took a lot of them for us! I think he cleaned up in tips when the tour was over; I hope he did!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWACYADGK-DfdXQBDPzRdV2qr6ecxswSOSOS8F0aH224hz1DBttay_YFr9n1GJTANrJj9PU41fZG5NKzlCotWsF43M07f0D71Zif9d04kmsBkHSc5Rwdcl_6Qle2UfGC2B2gZCp2E66dX2oR09EJZ-zNskwD3xCzJQvp6Hnb8c78JuMVQemJMGPYT7-w/s4032/Transport%20trucks%20to%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon: Things to know as you plan your trip" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWACYADGK-DfdXQBDPzRdV2qr6ecxswSOSOS8F0aH224hz1DBttay_YFr9n1GJTANrJj9PU41fZG5NKzlCotWsF43M07f0D71Zif9d04kmsBkHSc5Rwdcl_6Qle2UfGC2B2gZCp2E66dX2oR09EJZ-zNskwD3xCzJQvp6Hnb8c78JuMVQemJMGPYT7-w/w480-h640/Transport%20trucks%20to%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" title="You'll be transported to Antelope Canyon in one of these open back trucks." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You'll be tranported to the canyon in one of these trucks that seats 12-14.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>4.</b> There are only four time slots daily available for the tours, which last 90 minues each. The best time is between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun shines overhead down into the canyon, and these timeslots cost more and sell out first.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSKXFDY8nVejmvyZKXtjeNTIm8m09bQyjmDylYuVmp4e1Bb8baichaS6aWTRjIXcJJLsJpa0MXOUtsp_PWA-3rJGU5_8LVoZi7U3FG2-o_PI0QK_1hugklK-P9op011MvaWl7CpRnOmVfkP5rp0DfEnPjTK35soJkX-42BqmuAXdAOUqV5Afj-M9iFRQ/s3780/Beautiful%20erosion%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon: Things to know as you plan your trip" border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSKXFDY8nVejmvyZKXtjeNTIm8m09bQyjmDylYuVmp4e1Bb8baichaS6aWTRjIXcJJLsJpa0MXOUtsp_PWA-3rJGU5_8LVoZi7U3FG2-o_PI0QK_1hugklK-P9op011MvaWl7CpRnOmVfkP5rp0DfEnPjTK35soJkX-42BqmuAXdAOUqV5Afj-M9iFRQ/w512-h640/Beautiful%20erosion%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" title="Antelope Canyon's incredible walls are the result of wind and water erosion." width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The incredible canyon walls are the result of wind and water erosion.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>5. </b>No bags or even belt bags are allowed. So wear clothing with pockets if you need to bring more than your phone and water bottle. This rule is in place because when bags were allowed, people would use pens or other sharp objects and sometimes even mascara (!) to etch their initials on the walls. UGH, some people!</p><p><b>6.</b> Antelope Canyon is a 15-minute drive from Page, Arizona, and the equally famous Horseshoe Bend is about a 10-minute drive from Page in a slightly different direction. So it’s easy to see both of these social media darlings in one morning.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOhkWXnrxQqgVEfrh5b-sVmzN59p7JUT2r9AWN9rRIN7Fhx85Fq4KKLwEYKjianjEoLTttwqNnOS88vrywIAw99mUj0F8HNOiRWf1-qxb-HGyPBmkjtmuyE7vNCRRQ4ndIOqZAaQwL8-T5YeL-4-yyda0Vjbjos0SHvDintk-Fu6T0thQ0dMxhNvVnp4/s3780/Outline%20of%20lady%20at%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon: Things to know as you plan your trip" border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOhkWXnrxQqgVEfrh5b-sVmzN59p7JUT2r9AWN9rRIN7Fhx85Fq4KKLwEYKjianjEoLTttwqNnOS88vrywIAw99mUj0F8HNOiRWf1-qxb-HGyPBmkjtmuyE7vNCRRQ4ndIOqZAaQwL8-T5YeL-4-yyda0Vjbjos0SHvDintk-Fu6T0thQ0dMxhNvVnp4/w512-h640/Outline%20of%20lady%20at%20Antelope%20Canyon.jpg" title="Outline of a lady in a gown at Antelope Canyon" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see the outline of a lady in a gown?</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3><span><span><br /></span></span></h3><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><div><br /></div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h3><div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div></h3></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Antelope Canyon, Arizona36.8619103 -111.37433028.5516764638211527 -146.5305802 65.172144136178844 -76.2180802tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-34417255716321868352023-04-09T07:43:00.002-07:002024-01-16T08:02:39.275-08:00New York on a budget: What to see and do in NYC <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_M08FlwAZX3gGvxotBwoUD8n6VpUWOtT6eCmNV93cLH12l3YMF91RQF5InumtN81wSCJZTWTf7w6GPRF-mLX7R3RlfWydtGdTzOa7KhRlJJcklJNLQqCUnmPia4Bb3USi4QlqKsoOAtNBLNn1_UFw8tCsa897cxC9nYO7PfJx0oN3FMYKpNp_8I30/s3705/Edge.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edge NYC in New York City" border="0" data-original-height="3705" data-original-width="2964" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_M08FlwAZX3gGvxotBwoUD8n6VpUWOtT6eCmNV93cLH12l3YMF91RQF5InumtN81wSCJZTWTf7w6GPRF-mLX7R3RlfWydtGdTzOa7KhRlJJcklJNLQqCUnmPia4Bb3USi4QlqKsoOAtNBLNn1_UFw8tCsa897cxC9nYO7PfJx0oN3FMYKpNp_8I30/w512-h640/Edge.jpg" title="The views south from the new Edge NYC." width="512" /></a></div><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">New York is always a good idea, in my view. It’s an especially great destination if you’re on a budget.<span><a name='more'></a></span><span></span></h3><p></p><p>Whenever I get a case of the ho-hums, I book a trip to New York. This is not as extravagant as it sounds.</p><p>New York is always a good idea, in my view. The city is constantly changing — in the Big Apple, more is more — and flights are usually a breeze no matter where you're coming from. And then you have the cherry on top: The many free sightseeing options which mean you can explore to your heart's content while your credit card remains unscathed.</p><p>In this city, I budget for accommodations and food. But unless I'm seeing a play or going to a sporting event, I know my sightseeing costs will be negligible. These are some of my favourite freebies.<br /><br />My first stop on my most recent trip was to the stunning honeycomb-like structure called Vessel. It had opened a year before the pandemic began and I couldn't wait to get up close and personal with it.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinM28UQ0gx86kSc2xYgqcntcn2Z1oto7djwJ7VyRBcAGtaPZ8OTMhhrbjHl3P7tTIw2ss9of6YoAL2Vq3iMBFTwTTzOw7QGoORNMXcSpQt6DB2oxy-IFowQNjd-lrHzTsSBeiKstC1xLev9WJO2NpI3uIC1wMTBcU70HX29ADBErvYEFbX0YfqFJ5i/s3272/vessel.jpg"><img alt="The Vessel in New York City, incredible to see" border="0" data-original-height="3272" data-original-width="2617" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinM28UQ0gx86kSc2xYgqcntcn2Z1oto7djwJ7VyRBcAGtaPZ8OTMhhrbjHl3P7tTIw2ss9of6YoAL2Vq3iMBFTwTTzOw7QGoORNMXcSpQt6DB2oxy-IFowQNjd-lrHzTsSBeiKstC1xLev9WJO2NpI3uIC1wMTBcU70HX29ADBErvYEFbX0YfqFJ5i/w512-h640/vessel.jpg" title="Love the Vessel in New York City, a real destination and must-see sight" width="512" /></a></div><p>It's no exaggeration to say I had my iPhone in overdrive that day. The futuristic Vessel is impressive in photos but it is an absolute showstopper in real life. Sixteen storeys in height, Vessel comprises 154 interconnecting flights of stairs within a spiralling bronze exterior. Due to safety concerns, the staircases have been largely closed since January 2021. But the structure, with its undulating curves that seem to reach for the sky, is utterly fascinating.</p><p>From buzzy to beloved: I headed next to the nearby High Line, the unique elevated park built on an abandoned railway spur nearly 10 metres above street level. I make it a point to "walk the Line" on every visit because each season reveals a different perspective. Abounding in flora and fauna — and on this day, the aroma of cherry blossoms in full bloom — the High Line's seamless union of urban design and ecology never fails to impress. That this pocket of tranquility exists in the heart of the city makes it all the more magnificent.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqvA53DRLuxS1gyc14ofotQfA8J0rZo5eeLG-9ffQGoNLl2Q51R63oRlYp98QtS74UkJKkvNFVqWaMuM-JxcUkEhC6WDC9WMjZO9pdT4LV1YIj7cASxF6AtFAM_m2wA_mhUeFu_VlMq_VBmBVABnObwOGfQrqzO4dTmjQmW7fMT9GEGXGzWVmZLmH/s4032/High%20Line.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The High Line in NYC New York City" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqvA53DRLuxS1gyc14ofotQfA8J0rZo5eeLG-9ffQGoNLl2Q51R63oRlYp98QtS74UkJKkvNFVqWaMuM-JxcUkEhC6WDC9WMjZO9pdT4LV1YIj7cASxF6AtFAM_m2wA_mhUeFu_VlMq_VBmBVABnObwOGfQrqzO4dTmjQmW7fMT9GEGXGzWVmZLmH/w360-h640/High%20Line.jpg" title="The High Line in New York is an engineering marvel." width="360" /></a></div><p>At the terminus of the High Line, visitors can browse, dine and raise a glass at the delightful foodie heaven that is Chelsea Market. This vibrant marketplace showcases the freshest offerings from fishmongers, butchers and artisanal cheesemakers, as well as numerous restaurants. Fun fact: Chelsea Market was originally the site of the National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) factory, and where the Oreo cookie was invented in 1912.</p><p>There are few cities that are as Instagram-worthy as New York and, for me, Times Square is unrivalled for sheer raucous energy. But after you've admired the glitz and glitter, don't leave this area quite yet.</p><p>It would be a shame to miss Grand Central Terminal, the Beaux-Arts masterpiece that's one of the busiest subway stations in the world and a National Historic Landmark. Rockefeller Center, the Art Deco skyscraper, and its iconic skating rink, are brilliant and should also be on your list. Ditto the otherworldly splendour of St. Patrick's Cathedral across the street.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvwbWNz4sJuvs2Jn7XLWcIdMecNOP3hi7rMt2km59QXIT2mICy5ZGLbfBOXdUU8diLTlCLrgKbKRsWsbBlJPKKLUCQXBtKuySAyB1LEtraPp8K2-IYu8gljvVpeEq5mZHfvam5uF_lav7XQgTB_qrxzrhhAz2ohIUe01xHA1bsuDGutS4Vpo2-Swg/s3721/Rockefeller%20Center.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rockefeller Center in New York City NYC" border="0" data-original-height="3721" data-original-width="2093" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvwbWNz4sJuvs2Jn7XLWcIdMecNOP3hi7rMt2km59QXIT2mICy5ZGLbfBOXdUU8diLTlCLrgKbKRsWsbBlJPKKLUCQXBtKuySAyB1LEtraPp8K2-IYu8gljvVpeEq5mZHfvam5uF_lav7XQgTB_qrxzrhhAz2ohIUe01xHA1bsuDGutS4Vpo2-Swg/w360-h640/Rockefeller%20Center.jpg" title="Rockefeller Center in New York is a must. Take the building tour if you can" width="360" /></a></div><p>A visit to the National September 11 Memorial is also a must for me, but this moving tribute can also be unbearably heartbreaking. I'm always struck by how hushed it is here as visitors, even the children, wander quietly around the reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The memorial is free to visit, though the 9/11 Museum requires a ticket.</p><p>Steps away you'll find Oculus station, the soaring ribbed structure that's both a transportation hub and a shopping centre. It's a great spot for a mental reset: Pastry and photo op, anyone?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhECawsWwtiHtplJdV7W87vv019HFzzDtu84Qv8u2W5v_IIrgK5QRL0CvtMznqg5MFC06u5l-wISlm17-8mvbAPrYgeKwL4zstZCbNEgDPRDh9VDkXnVxJl3v9UWAxROTCBpb8BWfZAc9CNh5TuPLYjW-cCJ1pzeFIMardS-_sgEPsbkGh24bWaiP/s3908/oculus.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Oculus in New York City NYC" border="0" data-original-height="3908" data-original-width="2198" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhECawsWwtiHtplJdV7W87vv019HFzzDtu84Qv8u2W5v_IIrgK5QRL0CvtMznqg5MFC06u5l-wISlm17-8mvbAPrYgeKwL4zstZCbNEgDPRDh9VDkXnVxJl3v9UWAxROTCBpb8BWfZAc9CNh5TuPLYjW-cCJ1pzeFIMardS-_sgEPsbkGh24bWaiP/w360-h640/oculus.jpg" title="Oculus in New York is a transportation hub and a shopping center." width="360" /></a></div><p>As fantastic as these Manhattan sights are, however, it's in Brooklyn that visitors will find a trio of experiences that I think are most quintessentially New York. It's an easy subway ride to this borough and, once here, many begin their sightseeing by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. For some, this is a huge bucket list item checked. Next, a leisurely stroll in Brooklyn Bridge Park offers breathtaking views of the city's gleaming skyscrapers. Finally, a stop in trendy DUMBO — a neighbourhood renowned for its galleries, shops and eateries — is the perfect reward for logging all those miles.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XQeUD8Wmxq55DPJPbwp1hDbyFs-7ZJq2Tfhwn0YozmC6uOhs3AP46qOi15l5qWnYoiIHj4Dl5QV4r0TBFtrF2NHnz8gdRE7TAPrHtGvKfpwdbL4zky-8PhBK5q8ZKh80g9VpuJJLwBKYV-zYSiOe8Gxhx0RpiQeLEJHCX0IEzy6rphOs1964IwDk/s2692/Brooklyn%20Bridge.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Brooklyn Bridge in NYC New York City" border="0" data-original-height="2692" data-original-width="2154" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XQeUD8Wmxq55DPJPbwp1hDbyFs-7ZJq2Tfhwn0YozmC6uOhs3AP46qOi15l5qWnYoiIHj4Dl5QV4r0TBFtrF2NHnz8gdRE7TAPrHtGvKfpwdbL4zky-8PhBK5q8ZKh80g9VpuJJLwBKYV-zYSiOe8Gxhx0RpiQeLEJHCX0IEzy6rphOs1964IwDk/w512-h640/Brooklyn%20Bridge.jpg" title="The Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, a bucket list sight for so many people" width="512" /></a></div><p>But wait, there's more! If you've got a few extra New York minutes, check out these additional free sights:</p><p>* Central Park, of course, for the boating, the biking, and Strawberry Fields, the John Lennon memorial. * Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, dubbed the "real Little Italy," for the sidewalk raw oyster bars and custom cigar rolling. * The Staten Island ferry for close-up views of the Statue of Liberty. * The Strand Bookstore, for its "18 miles of books." * Madison Square Park, where you can dine at the original Shake Shack while admiring the famous Flatiron building.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixhaGkQVqb02q_ysj4eH_TQtQZ-gVp7YF1oyonq50pTV1Wbq9L78sGhXSvucKXXBAaGr3Xv8MmvISi4J4qx4HDdGT_aKTruPGSfkraw_lsqsRkKgy9C6qqIlL4qB3IT5QTA3LHJMeeyr7LsSJ1fogydJsKUFvPmMKva8Y9hrq-AJsv0XbtkMexR66l/s3385/Central%20Park.jpg"><img alt="Central Park in New York City" border="0" data-original-height="3385" data-original-width="2708" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixhaGkQVqb02q_ysj4eH_TQtQZ-gVp7YF1oyonq50pTV1Wbq9L78sGhXSvucKXXBAaGr3Xv8MmvISi4J4qx4HDdGT_aKTruPGSfkraw_lsqsRkKgy9C6qqIlL4qB3IT5QTA3LHJMeeyr7LsSJ1fogydJsKUFvPmMKva8Y9hrq-AJsv0XbtkMexR66l/w512-h640/Central%20Park.jpg" title="Central Park is arguably the crown jewel in New York City" width="512" /></a></div><p>Bigger, higher, faster — it's certainly easy to get in a New York state of mind, isn't it? This is a wonderful time to start planning a trip because in springtime, crowds are smaller, lineups are shorter and hotels are cheaper. </p><p>And the sightseeing options? They're priceless.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Top 3 that are worth a ticket:</h2><p><b>There are also many sights in New York that require a ticket. These are my top picks. </b></p><p><b>CIRCLE LINE CRUISES:</b> I've always loved Circle Line's cruises around Manhattan because the boroughs are so different when seen from the water. You'll learn some great historical factoids as well. For example: In 1857 when a riverside park was proposed, businessmen balked, protesting that the waterfront was too crucial to be used as parkland. “Go inland to the central part of the island,” they suggested. “Land is so much cheaper there.” And thus, Central Park was created. </p><p><b>OBSERVATION TOWERS:</b> New York has a number of these towers and my top pick is Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center for its superb views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and the Statue of Liberty. The new Summit One Vanderbilt is a close second for its excellent views and very cool Mirror Room. (Tip: Don't pay to go to the higher floor; views from the lower floor are spectacular.) The views from the Empire State Building are also very good but be aware that if you're in the building, it obviously won't be in your photo. In my opinion, the views at Edge NYC fall short, while One World Observatory is too far from the buildings in Midtown. </p><p><b>9/11 MUSEUM:</b> While the National September 11 Memorial is free to visit, the 9/11 Museum requires a ticket — and it's absolutely worth the price. It's here that you'll see a multi-ton steel column, folded over onto itself like a paper clip, and displays that include the last telephone messages from those trapped in the towers. Take the excellent tour if you can; otherwise, download the app. </p><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-hotels-in-vancouver-canada-near-the-cruise-ship-terminal-dock.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Best hotels in downtown Vancouver near the cruise ship dock</a><br />MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/cherry-blossoms-2023-best-places-to-see-them-vancouver.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Where to see Vancouver's famous cherry blossoms</a><br />MORE:<span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" target="_blank">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></span></h3><div><br /></div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h3><div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div><p><br /></p></h3><h4><br /></h4><h3><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p><p><br style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;" /></p></h3><p><br /></p><h4><br /></h4><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0New York40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-40633782686696935792023-04-02T08:54:00.009-07:002023-04-07T10:15:08.338-07:00 21 best things to do in Vancouver before your cruise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3uGAgy7v1TWpvCrJuk_e1Ruyy3UU0H26IKTwkJzsvpX0vO7D2TvEhC6nQvqYuAgpGG9FgXlov07KyKz3ItkGlG7pxUa3PpiuVP6TUaiuJpScrPdr-XwYxFR0OTjKqoGS2USwvHXAMMr8Y1KsAjduXpdJMnYf7IJrB-zdpL_ElWocU673_0Ygw_zm/s2613/Granville%20Island%20MAIN%20PHOTO.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="2613" data-original-width="2090" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3uGAgy7v1TWpvCrJuk_e1Ruyy3UU0H26IKTwkJzsvpX0vO7D2TvEhC6nQvqYuAgpGG9FgXlov07KyKz3ItkGlG7pxUa3PpiuVP6TUaiuJpScrPdr-XwYxFR0OTjKqoGS2USwvHXAMMr8Y1KsAjduXpdJMnYf7IJrB-zdpL_ElWocU673_0Ygw_zm/w512-h640/Granville%20Island%20MAIN%20PHOTO.jpg" title="It's rush hour in Vancouver ... The boats and kayaks on Granville Island are a very Vancouver sight." width="512" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ahoy there, cruisers! Vancouver is the perfect destination to explore before or after your Alaska cruise. <span><a name='more'></a></span><span></span></h3><p>Of course, this list will also be helpful to people who are visiting Vancouver, who are not on a cruise. The city has so much to offer, from towering mountains to stunning beaches and everything in between. Here are some sightseeing tips, from a local ... Check out my top spots to add to your itinerary.</p><p>If you have lots of time before or after your cruise, enjoy!</p><p>If you only have a few hours to spare before your flight departs, you'll be especially interested in the first 12 options, which are either walkable from the cruise ship dock or can be reached fairly easily by transit/shuttle/taxi.</p><p>If you're trying to figure out how to get to Vancouver airport from the cruise dock, <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/how-to-get-from-yvr-airport-to-vancouver-cruise-ship-terminal.html" target="_blank">click here</a>. </p><p>If you're trying to figure out what to do with your luggage while you tour the city, <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/luggage-storage-in-vancouver-after-alaska-cruise-ends.html" target="_blank">click here</a>.</p><p><b>Now, let's start sightseeing!</b></p><p><b>1. Bus tour:</b> <a href="https://westcoastsightseeing.com/hop_on/sightseeing_pass/" target="_blank">Westcoast Sightseeing</a> offers a Hop-On Hop-Off tour of Vancouver that covers over 20 stops, including <b>Granville Island (main photo above)</b>, Stanley Park and Gastown. The tour includes live commentary from a guide and is available in multiple languages. Prices range from CAD $65 for a 24-hour adult ticket to CAD $80 for a 48-hour adult ticket.</p><p><b>2. FlyOver Canada:</b> <a href="https://www.flyovercanada.com/" target="_blank">FlyOver Canada</a> is a unique, immersive experience that takes you on a virtual flight across Canada. You'll soar over glaciers, mountains and cities, all while sitting in a suspended chair. The experience is enhanced by special effects like wind, mist and scents. It's a ton of fun, and located just steps from the Canada Place cruise ship dock. </p><p><b>3. Vancouver Lookout: </b>The <a href="https://vancouverlookout.com/" target="_blank">Vancouver Lookout</a> is an observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the city. It's located on the 55th floor of the Harbour Centre building, and it's accessible by glass elevator. The views are particularly stunning at sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light. The observation deck is a couple of blocks east of the cruise ship dock, on Hastings Street just before you reach Gastown. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3iQw0v0TP80N2XHB27fukT58x0_mdW9dJ-6UtPaPHuQYcmsoMavufBS8IDmAM06VjiSzUVqSV0O_us1xdlgEZJGJsdEwTMDEkj3ajgOwPt_tmYWPz3xcy0qhNm68AwHZbYm12HcGsA_1X2VjS7LQAkRg_Wp77IXMWK2bmHFngF1AT4HLfmL8_3JEU/s4032/Gastown%20steam%20clock.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3iQw0v0TP80N2XHB27fukT58x0_mdW9dJ-6UtPaPHuQYcmsoMavufBS8IDmAM06VjiSzUVqSV0O_us1xdlgEZJGJsdEwTMDEkj3ajgOwPt_tmYWPz3xcy0qhNm68AwHZbYm12HcGsA_1X2VjS7LQAkRg_Wp77IXMWK2bmHFngF1AT4HLfmL8_3JEU/w480-h640/Gastown%20steam%20clock.jpg" title="The Steam Clock in Vancouver's Gastown area is one of the city's most popular attractions" width="480" /></a></div><p><b>4. Gastown:</b> <a href="https://gastown.org/" target="_blank">Gastown</a> is the oldest neighbourhood in Vancouver, and it's packed with history and character. The cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture and gas streetlamps give it a charming, old-world feel. Check out the Steam Clock, grab a coffee at a cozy cafe or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. The neighbourhood is a few blocks east of the cruise ship dock. </p><p><b>5. Robson Street:</b> <a href="https://robsonstreet.ca/" target="_blank">Robson Street</a> is Vancouver's premier shopping district. It's home to a wide range of shops, from high-end boutiques to popular chain stores. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes, as well as street performers and musicians. The area is about a 20-minute walk south of the cruise ship dock. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IeGEL8-vIdwaqvBfh9IxlqYG-k1PoQIAJRkR7WtlkEsTnmLp8p5XJPxuErV7BHlI5wx6PFgURIkS7osrFvAWpxuKvXfz2jB7x67ABglSSnGGT7YjMJLUtRHWhVFoT_MAr0tt7V4KNZpCpwmcU4LkCKmpiotAyy8FRoYl7tiz_pZbnVHlQ50YCpk1/s3019/Capilano%20Suspension%20Bridge%20Cliffwalk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="3019" data-original-width="2415" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IeGEL8-vIdwaqvBfh9IxlqYG-k1PoQIAJRkR7WtlkEsTnmLp8p5XJPxuErV7BHlI5wx6PFgURIkS7osrFvAWpxuKvXfz2jB7x67ABglSSnGGT7YjMJLUtRHWhVFoT_MAr0tt7V4KNZpCpwmcU4LkCKmpiotAyy8FRoYl7tiz_pZbnVHlQ50YCpk1/w512-h640/Capilano%20Suspension%20Bridge%20Cliffwalk.jpg" title="The Cliffwalk at the Capilano Suspension Bridge site is the marquee attraction, in my view." width="512" /></a></div><p><b>6. Capilano Suspension Bridge: </b>This is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. The <a href="https://www.capbridge.com/" target="_blank">Capilano Suspension Bridge</a> spans 140 metres (460 feet) across the Capilano River and hangs 70 metres (230 feet) above the canyon floor. Cross the bridge for breathtaking views of the surrounding forest, or try the Cliffwalk for an even more adventurous experience. For me, the <b>Cliffwalk (shown above)</b> is as big a star as the suspension bridge. Cliffwalk comprises a series of cantilevered bridges and stairs with only 16 anchor points in the cliff supporting the structure. It’s a bit freaky, but definitely a must-see.</p><p>** There is a <a href="https://www.capbridge.com/shuttle-schedule/" target="_blank">free shuttle year-round from Canada Place</a>, where cruises end, to the Capilano Suspension Bridge and back, so this is a wonderful option for people who have a few hours before their flights depart. </p><p><b>Pro tip:</b> If you have a vehicle, dine at a restaurant on Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver and get the best views of the Vancouver skyline. My favourite is the Tap & Barrel patio.</p><p><b>7. Grouse Mountain:</b> If you're up for a challenge, hike up <a href="https://www.grousemountain.com/" target="_blank">Grouse Mountain</a> for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding nature. Alternatively, take the gondola to the top and enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the winter, or ziplining and hiking in the summer. You can also visit the resident grizzly bears at the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife. </p><p>** There is a <a href="https://www.grousemountain.com/shuttle" target="_blank">free shuttle during the summer from Canada Place,</a> where cruises end, to Grouse Mountain so this is a great option for cruisers who have a few hours before their flights depart. The shuttle runs daily during the summer season. The shuttle operates on a first-come, first-served basis with the purchase of a round-trip Mountain Admission ticket. </p><p><b>8. Stanley Park:</b> Covering over 1,000 acres, <a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx" target="_blank">Stanley Park</a> is one of the largest urban parks in North America. It's home to beaches, lakes and scenic views of Vancouver's skyline. Take a stroll along the seawall, rent a bike or rollerblades, or explore 27 km (17 miles) of forested trails. Don't forget to stop by the Totem Poles to see the impressive carvings created by First Nations artists. The best way to see the park is either by car or by bike rental, because there's a lot of physical space between the park sights. </p><p><b>9. Vancouver Aquarium:</b> The <a href="https://www.vanaqua.org/" target="_blank">Vancouver Aquarium</a> is a world-class facility that's home to over 50,000 animals from around the world. It's an excellent opportunity to learn about marine life and conservation efforts. Highlights include the Pacific Canada Pavilion, the Amazon Gallery and the Arctic Canada exhibit. The aquarium is located in Stanley Park. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbm9_LBoskc9hEkaYVRnbg2GDSFTlSXXvK1776dv1HvMd4BQ5dYgQQGfhL1XjWRn7TZ02uzVscN71DJKq07F0W-d2CLvQMUMVw0ybvc6oyq0ScRwiwxvX5y2wja2y5_SHKvywxQw6kaB4SH20KEqMiJjP62ySqOmXPdfA2beEDFej7CzeCZX9FNOr/s2352/Aquabus%20Granville%20Island.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="2352" data-original-width="2128" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbm9_LBoskc9hEkaYVRnbg2GDSFTlSXXvK1776dv1HvMd4BQ5dYgQQGfhL1XjWRn7TZ02uzVscN71DJKq07F0W-d2CLvQMUMVw0ybvc6oyq0ScRwiwxvX5y2wja2y5_SHKvywxQw6kaB4SH20KEqMiJjP62ySqOmXPdfA2beEDFej7CzeCZX9FNOr/w580-h640/Aquabus%20Granville%20Island.jpg" title="The Aquabus is loved by locals and tourists alike. Best tip is to buy an all day pass and use the Aquabus to sightsee at each of its eight stops." width="580" /></a></div><p><b>10. Granville Island:</b> <a href="https://granvilleisland.com/" target="_blank">Granville Island</a> is a vibrant, bustling spot in Vancouver. It's a hub of artistic activity, with galleries, studios and the famous Granville Island Public Market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Take a boat tour or hop on the Aquabus ferry for a scenic ride around False Creek. </p><p><b>Pro tip: </b>The <a href="https://theaquabus.com/" target="_blank">Aquabus</a> is a great way to get around. It makes eight stops and the last stop actually puts you about a 10-minute walk to downtown Vancouver and about a 25-minute walk to Stanley Park. An all-day ticket costs $17 and there's something to see at every stop. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigB7v0PEPvDXgL-b6mW0iWV2IzyrCdc3N8YYVEfddNC-9R-S4WcvN13gPGWf7g7w8Goao_jmy_J3gnFkVXNS4ibJrSwzkLhee9WqjvF9j9U-xARYZ6AQQsERn7Xx_jWAqQ3FIFGgRQA9YOvSxkREO-kxTZeBVd0BegjqEWRVImUzTnMdwKubCpkZdz/s3948/whale%20watching.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="3948" data-original-width="3158" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigB7v0PEPvDXgL-b6mW0iWV2IzyrCdc3N8YYVEfddNC-9R-S4WcvN13gPGWf7g7w8Goao_jmy_J3gnFkVXNS4ibJrSwzkLhee9WqjvF9j9U-xARYZ6AQQsERn7Xx_jWAqQ3FIFGgRQA9YOvSxkREO-kxTZeBVd0BegjqEWRVImUzTnMdwKubCpkZdz/w512-h640/whale%20watching.jpg" title="Whale-watching is a very Vancouver thing to do ... Hit the open seas in a catamaran for an adventure you won't forget soon." width="512" /></a></div><p><b>11. Whale-Watching:</b> Vancouver is a prime location for <a href="https://princeofwhales.com/" target="_blank">whale-watching</a>, with several tour operators offering daily excursions. You can spot orcas, humpback whales and even dolphins as you sail through the Strait of Georgia and the Gulf Islands. Many of the tours offer experienced guides who can provide information about the marine life and the local ecosystem, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Many tours depart from Granville Island. I've been on two whale-watching trips, both from Prince of Whales, and have enjoyed both very much. </p><p><b>12. Science World:</b> <a href="https://www.scienceworld.ca/" target="_blank">Science World</a> is a fun, interactive museum that's perfect for kids and adults alike. It's located in a striking geodesic dome and has exhibits on everything from physics and chemistry to biology and ecology. The Omnimax Theatre is also a must-see, with a five-storey-high screen that immerses you in the action. It's easy to hop on the <a href="https://www.translink.ca/schedules-and-maps/skytrain#expo-line" target="_blank">SkyTrain</a> from Waterfront Station; just get off at the Main Street-Science World Station. </p><p><b>13. English Bay:</b> <a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/english-bay-beach.aspx" target="_blank">English Bay beach</a> is one of the most popular in Vancouver, and it's easy to see why. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and playing beach volleyball. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby (one of my favourites is Cactus Club, which is right on the water and has killer views), as well as the iconic Inukshuk statue. There's fun touristy shopping on Denman Street too. And don't forget to pose with the A-Maze-ing Laughter sculptures, or "the laughing guys," as we locals call them. (See post about Vancouver Biennale below.)</p><p><b>14. Richmond Night Market:</b> If you're visiting Vancouver during the summer months, you won't want to miss the <a href="https://richmondnightmarket.com/" target="_blank">Richmond Night Market.</a> This Asian-style night market features more than 250 food vendors, as well as games, rides, and live entertainment. The market is open on weekends in the evenings between May and October and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Richmond Night Market is just one block from the SkyTrain Canada Line's Bridgeport Station and next to the River Rock Casino. Check the website for hours and admission prices. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1cLhrStSCb9FwFaEYcclHMPWy4Foc1iWziQlX1d_o-2WAs0BJSjNJbNmSsPP7AddkGH8zHVLGNNARJyiWKfefFV2Q9fLZ_Ck0VHiExkgrj7nWYZ99SWJFooSVEL8qn-2-o1rGDAWzYha1QRhj1WDFtJbyL8cbi5aFZubbWwuw8-BgczBEXXAk2g3F/s4032/Queen%20Elizabeth%20park.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1cLhrStSCb9FwFaEYcclHMPWy4Foc1iWziQlX1d_o-2WAs0BJSjNJbNmSsPP7AddkGH8zHVLGNNARJyiWKfefFV2Q9fLZ_Ck0VHiExkgrj7nWYZ99SWJFooSVEL8qn-2-o1rGDAWzYha1QRhj1WDFtJbyL8cbi5aFZubbWwuw8-BgczBEXXAk2g3F/w640-h480/Queen%20Elizabeth%20park.jpg" title="Queen Elizabeth Park offers some lovely views, a conservatory and a chance to take it easy for a while." width="640" /></a></div><p><b>15. Queen Elizabeth Park:</b> <a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park.aspx" target="_blank">Queen Elizabeth Park</a> is another beautiful green space in Vancouver. It's located on a hill and offers stunning views of the city. The park has walking paths, gardens and an arboretum. The quarry gardens are not big but they're among the prettiest I've seen, and they're free to visit. Don't miss the Bloedel Conservatory, a domed conservatory that's home to exotic birds and plants. </p><p><b>Pro tip: </b>If you're a fan of Italian food, check out the fabulous <a href="https://www.saviovolpe.com/" target="_blank">Savio Volpe</a>, which is about a 15-minute drive away.</p><p><b><a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/vandusen-botanical-garden.aspx" target="_blank">16. VanDusen Botanical Garden:</a></b> This is a stunning, 55-acre garden that's home to over 7,500 plant species from around the world. It's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with walking paths, ponds and greenhouses. Highlights include the Elizabethan Maze, the Sino-Himalayan Garden and the Mediterranean Garden. </p><p><b><a href="https://vancouverchinesegarden.com/" target="_blank">17. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden:</a></b> This garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Chinatown. It's a traditional Chinese garden, with winding paths, rocks and water features. The garden is designed to promote harmony and balance, and it's an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgio9UP1ZsQlsZSmqofTMKwac29DkdGw69okV5s_4DXckqXQMyxVYgLGN-HN35J_4yUgLx_TxNJSoNDWAHAhgxNjv2M_WgzYg7_FYkG6_NUdjN7fkV0JMZo73ZUQzbENiGnPjBozLxqPy3JerP9iX_ILIU-ugbstij-IoJ-XR81I0d_LuJdqm7DKa1j/s4032/UBC%20Treewalk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgio9UP1ZsQlsZSmqofTMKwac29DkdGw69okV5s_4DXckqXQMyxVYgLGN-HN35J_4yUgLx_TxNJSoNDWAHAhgxNjv2M_WgzYg7_FYkG6_NUdjN7fkV0JMZo73ZUQzbENiGnPjBozLxqPy3JerP9iX_ILIU-ugbstij-IoJ-XR81I0d_LuJdqm7DKa1j/w640-h480/UBC%20Treewalk.jpg" title="The UBC Botanical Garden and Greenheart TreeWalk are an oasis in the bustling city of Vancouver." width="640" /></a></div><p><b>18. UBC Botanical Garden: </b>Located on the University of British Columbia campus, the <a href="https://botanicalgarden.ubc.ca/" target="_blank">UBC Botanical Garden</a> is a must-visit for nature lovers. The garden spans 110 acres and features more than 8,000 different plants from around the world. Highlights include the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese garden and the Greenheart TreeWalk, a suspension bridge that takes you through the treetops. The TreeWalk isn't that high off the ground, but wow, do these bridges ever wobble and shake! Vancouver has a lot of suspended-bridge attractions and this one is my absolute favourite. Another bonus: This site is extremely cheap to visit. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2d_Fu-q1AgxeWDEfcHzd5L_SB5fGzqNq9NSCS1nNbq95380yxzmsX2zZM96Ul8Bij9aNgn2N8SC65L1tMgOoXkiteu_s_AZxn2bIwga0R3W_776FJDIwQBRxXGxJ1tJ16hPRnsI62FaTm-L4QO2mbrsrg-1zlwQyX77dvKFeCz46T5xFfctXxQpt/s2923/Museum%20of%20Anthropology.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="2923" data-original-width="2923" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2d_Fu-q1AgxeWDEfcHzd5L_SB5fGzqNq9NSCS1nNbq95380yxzmsX2zZM96Ul8Bij9aNgn2N8SC65L1tMgOoXkiteu_s_AZxn2bIwga0R3W_776FJDIwQBRxXGxJ1tJ16hPRnsI62FaTm-L4QO2mbrsrg-1zlwQyX77dvKFeCz46T5xFfctXxQpt/w640-h640/Museum%20of%20Anthropology.jpg" title="The Museum of Anthropology is a unique museum featuring many First Nations works of art, at the Univerity of B.C." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>19. Museum of Anthropology:</b> The <a href="https://moa.ubc.ca/" target="_blank">Museum of Anthropology</a> is a fascinating destination that showcases the history and culture of British Columbia's Indigenous peoples. It has a vast collection of artifacts and artworks, including totem poles, masks, and carvings. The design of the striking Great Hall, with its 15-metre-high (50 feet) glass walls, was inspired by the post-and-beam architecture of the northern Northwest Coast First Nations people. The museum is located on the University of British Columbia's campus, which is a beautiful spot in its own right. <br /><b>UPDATE:</b> The MOA is temporarily closed for seismic upgrades. </p><p><b>20. Shannon Falls:</b> Just a scenic one-hour drive from Vancouver, <a href="https://dev.bcparks.ca/shannon-falls-park/" target="_blank">Shannon Falls</a> is one of the province's most beautiful waterfalls, and the third-highest. The falls drop 335 metres (1,100 feet) and are surrounded by lush forest. There's a well-maintained trail that takes you to the base of the falls, where you can feel the mist on your face and take some breathtaking photos. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNn6kX4GqCMegkGeR5PxOXrzGns3bky7Z-G3fhhbSzjGvwaX2EbJGdnPbGHz-M7cV6NqWMEAZajBR3bfcMQCb4S7ofPNqbaCr1hBb5Y7BatbgDXzFJoHH34e3zE6J_ZRbfX0zkgFbSk1GjFMAXvW5KZ425Xm8VwY_klpbDY4WBsgKup37kZKczCkrV/s4032/Sea%20to%20Sky%20Gondola.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The best things to do in Vancouver before or after your Alaska cruise" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNn6kX4GqCMegkGeR5PxOXrzGns3bky7Z-G3fhhbSzjGvwaX2EbJGdnPbGHz-M7cV6NqWMEAZajBR3bfcMQCb4S7ofPNqbaCr1hBb5Y7BatbgDXzFJoHH34e3zE6J_ZRbfX0zkgFbSk1GjFMAXvW5KZ425Xm8VwY_klpbDY4WBsgKup37kZKczCkrV/w640-h480/Sea%20to%20Sky%20Gondola.jpg" title="Don't miss the Sea-to-Sky Gondola attraction, about an hour's drive north of Vancouver. There are a ton of things to see here including views for days, a long, high suspension bridge and great hiking trails." width="640" /></a></div><p><b>21. The Sea-to-Sky Gondola: </b>Located a scenic hour's drive north of Vancouver in Squamish, the <a href="https://www.seatoskygondola.com/" target="_blank">Sea-to-Sky Gondola</a> is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. The gondola is the next exit after Shannon Falls north on Highway 99. The 10-minute gondola ride takes you up 885 metres (2,900 feet) to the summit of the mountain, where you'll see breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. Once you're at the top, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore, as well as a suspension bridge, viewing platforms and a restaurant serving up delicious local cuisine. It's a perfect day trip from Vancouver for those looking for adventure and scenic beauty. </p><p><b>Pro tip:</b> If you have time and a vehicle, and you're a fan of the Netflix series Virgin River, you must stop at the <a href="https://www.thewatershedgrill.com/" target="_blank">Watershed Grill</a> in nearby Squamish. This restaurant is the setting for <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2020/08/virgin-river-season-2-on-netflix-visit.html" target="_blank">Jack's Bar in Virgin River</a> and it's so fun to have a meal here. Be prepared for lineups though. </p><p><b>EXTRA, EXTRA:</b> For art lovers, Vancouver offers an exciting opportunity to explore the city's vibrant public art scene. The <a href="https://www.vancouverbiennale.com/" target="_blank">Vancouver Biennale</a> is a public art exhibition that features large-scale sculptures and installations throughout the city. The artworks are created by artists from around the world and are placed in public spaces, making art accessible to everyone. </p><p><b>Pro tip:</b> One of the most popular installations at English Bay beach is A-maze-ing Laughter by Yue Minjun. The installation features 14 bronze sculptures of a laughing figure with exaggerated features, creating a playful and interactive experience for visitors. </p><p><br /></p><h4>>> Have a question? Post it in the comments and I'll do my best to find the answer.</h4><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span>MORE:</span><span> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/how-to-get-from-yvr-airport-to-vancouver-cruise-ship-terminal.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">How to get from Vancouver airport to the cruise ship dock</a><br /></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-hotels-in-vancouver-canada-near-the-cruise-ship-terminal-dock.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Best hotels in downtown Vancouver near the cruise ship dock</a><br /></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2022/12/best-tips-for-new-cruisers.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">10 things to know if you're a new cruiser</a><br /></span><span>MORE:</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/how-to-get-from-yvr-airport-to-vancouver-cruise-ship-terminal.html" target="_blank">See a list of hotels in Richmond near the airport</a></span></h3><div><br /></div><div><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div><p><br /></p><h4><br /></h4><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Vancouver, Canada49.2827291 -123.120737520.972495263821152 -158.27698750000002 77.59296293617885 -87.9644875tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-47104852357767486882023-03-19T19:58:00.020-07:002024-01-13T08:02:29.785-08:00Cherry blossoms 2024: Where to see them in Vancouver<h4></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTC4ZxCtCOwRtrBUvP2dN75cpLxmqBf8UOwTF606NRVZ3EAoqx94RUWJCZZDEy9Ui8D0rc-Sm_6iR5LoGVuLAspox45ZZMaHQDZS7hSiM8eEH7qRTsokbeIMscytdlMdBzDKZgDiE4rYddmwlrB2GUwx3iWJ6ynGMx98nJ6VV2hFFguTWoojb44uz/s3299/cherry%20tree.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="cherry blossoms in Vancouver are a stunning sight every spring" border="0" data-original-height="3299" data-original-width="2474" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRTC4ZxCtCOwRtrBUvP2dN75cpLxmqBf8UOwTF606NRVZ3EAoqx94RUWJCZZDEy9Ui8D0rc-Sm_6iR5LoGVuLAspox45ZZMaHQDZS7hSiM8eEH7qRTsokbeIMscytdlMdBzDKZgDiE4rYddmwlrB2GUwx3iWJ6ynGMx98nJ6VV2hFFguTWoojb44uz/w480-h640/cherry%20tree.jpg" title="Cherry blossoms in Vancouver start to bloom in March and go until the end of May" width="480" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">When spring comes to Vancouver, you’ll know it by the cherry blossoms. Every year in March, we’re tickled pink!</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><a name='more'></a></span><span></span></h3><p><span></span><b>Updated Jan. 10, 2024<br /></b><br />Each type of blossom only lasts for about two weeks, but there are nearly 60 different cultivars in the Vancouver area and so the entire season can go into late May. The tricky thing is that the bloom period is different every year depending on the weather. Some years, a spring deluge can come down and really hurt the blossoms. So, remember that timing is crucial to catch them at their best. In 2023, the peak time will be in the first week of April. </p><p>Vancouver and its metro area are very lucky in the number of cherry trees it has. They were a gift from Japan, which gave 500 trees to the city in the 1930s as a symbol of friendship between Canada and Japan. Today, that number has grown to about 55,000 cherry trees in Metro Vancouver. </p><p>While other cities around the world — such as Tokyo, Washington DC, Jinhae, Kyoto and Bonn — are known for their cherry blossoms, Vancouver is still considered one of the best places in the world to see them. </p><p>Vancouver is doubly blessed because it's also home to a plethora of plum blossoms that look strikingly similar to their cherry counterparts. It's estimated that there are more than 10,000 trees in Vancouver alone, with many more scattered throughout the surrounding suburbs.</p><p>The way to tell them apart is that plum blossoms have a pleasant fragrance (cherry blossoms have only a faint scent) and their petals are rounded. Cherry blossom petals always have a little split or notch in them. You'll also know it by looking at the trunks: Plum blossom trunks don't have the horizontal lines that cherry blossom trunks do.</p><p>Plum blossoms have a longer lifespan, blooming for several weeks. Between the cherry blossoms and plum blossoms that blanket the region, Vancouver is a sight to behold in spring, and the season is a long one.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdaMCxEUF3VKR7vTt4vIdg20AEPKWRX26aosRNBeb2mIDIe3R717aV-QU7cc8edv6Bu32-sqH6bY8c9SZyzkOqdafsIvK0VYCJ-GL4kDCpH49BXE95CPiEx_oM9OL_nHU5rKuZZdYzwTLqpc2b1CKxpfqmIAg_L_gzLOCmINDm5vpbbfBTgYNi32F/s1132/closeup%20notch.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="cherry blossoms in Vancouver are a stunning sight every spring" border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGdaMCxEUF3VKR7vTt4vIdg20AEPKWRX26aosRNBeb2mIDIe3R717aV-QU7cc8edv6Bu32-sqH6bY8c9SZyzkOqdafsIvK0VYCJ-GL4kDCpH49BXE95CPiEx_oM9OL_nHU5rKuZZdYzwTLqpc2b1CKxpfqmIAg_L_gzLOCmINDm5vpbbfBTgYNi32F/w468-h640/closeup%20notch.jpg" title="Cherry blossoms in all their glory. Can you see the little notch in the petal that all cherry blossoms have?" width="468" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Akebono cherry blossoms: Aren't they stunning?</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">CHERRY BLOSSOM CULTIVARS</span></h2><p>These are some of the top types of cherry blossoms in Vancouver and area, as well as when they typically reach peak bloom. For information on all of the cultivars, see the fabulous <a href="https://vcbf.ca/cherry-cultivars/" target="_blank">Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival site</a>. </p><p><b>Whitcomb: </b>This spring cherry tree is the earliest of the blossoms to bloom. You'll see the vivid purple-pink petals everywhere starting even as early as February and going into March. <br /><b>See it:</b> A fabulous example of these blossoms can be found at Tisdale Park just south of Oakridge Centre in Vancouver.</p><p><b>Akebono:</b> You'll see the soft pink petals of Akebono cherry blossoms staring in late March or early April. The blooms start out shell pink and fade to nearly white. <br /><b>See it: </b>A spectacular example of the Akebono blossom can be found at the Burrard SkyTrain Station in Vancouver.</p><p><b>Shirotae:</b> Shirotae cherry blossoms, also known as the Mount Fuji cherry blossom, have large white double flowers and typically bloom in mid April. <br /><b>See it: </b>You can see one example of these beauties at Stanley Park near the Japanese Canadian War Memorial.</p><p><b>Umineko:</b> Umineko cherry blossoms, also known as Seabird cherry blossoms, have delicate, five-petaled pure white flowers and typically bloom in mid-April. <br /><b>See it: </b>See these stunners at Queen Elizabeth Park near the duck pond.</p><p><b>Kanzan:</b> Kanzan cherry trees are the most commonly planted of all of the flowering cherry trees in Vancouver, and one of the very prettiest. They're known for their deep pink double flowers and bloom in late April or May. The leaves emerge at the same time that the buds open. <br /><b>See it: </b>The most famous example of these trees, arguably, is on Arbutus Ridge in Vancouver.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPeR2GPeH3XoyrIRIomZ1SzJlR6w64FnVJg26CcEV00xHylt7v6R54nt4IvLKjh0RutCvqLsZvRXcPjaE8qLYLFRe_EGMKOtq5SHADi7j6PC0Ig9dN2s3px28ya0txcDJ-O6jH6qZpaVjDNwEt5lW8DHqsZi-RBmPRrmo6aZrLbzeM_nunYbvt4eW/s3776/Graveley%20Street.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="cherry blossoms in Vancouver are a stunning sight every spring" border="0" data-original-height="3776" data-original-width="2230" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSPeR2GPeH3XoyrIRIomZ1SzJlR6w64FnVJg26CcEV00xHylt7v6R54nt4IvLKjh0RutCvqLsZvRXcPjaE8qLYLFRe_EGMKOtq5SHADi7j6PC0Ig9dN2s3px28ya0txcDJ-O6jH6qZpaVjDNwEt5lW8DHqsZi-RBmPRrmo6aZrLbzeM_nunYbvt4eW/w378-h640/Graveley%20Street.jpg" title="Graveley Street in Vancouver is one of the most popular for its cherry blossom canopy" width="378" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Graveley Street canopy in Vancouver, a must-see sight.<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">SEE CHERRY BLOSSOMS IN VANCOUVER</span></h2><p><b>The City of Vancouver has numerous spots to view cherry blossoms in springtime; these are the most popular ones:</b></p><p>• <b><a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx" target="_blank">Stanley Park</a></b> has rows of blossoming trees near the Rose Garden and the Japanese Canadian War Memorial. There are more trees near the underpass to Lost Lagoon.</p><p>• <b><a href="https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/queen-elizabeth-park.aspx" target="_blank">Queen Elizabeth Park</a></b> is home to several varieties of cherry trees that bloom at different intervals from early March to late April. Check out the slopes on the west side of the park or the area near the park entrance on 33rd Avenue.</p><p>• <b><a href="https://skytrainmap.com/burrard-station/" target="_blank">Burrard SkyTrain Station</a></b>, which is located in downtown Vancouver, is surrounded by cherry blossom trees, making it a remarkable spot to view the blooms.</p><p>• <b><a href="https://granvilleisland.com/" target="_blank">Granville Island</a></b> also has cherry blossom trees, and this is a particularly picturesque spot to view the blooms. Head to the east side of the island facing False Creek.</p><p>• <b><a href="https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=16" target="_blank">David Lam Park</a></b> is located in Yaletown and is home to several varieties of cherry trees, including the Akebono and Kanzan varieties.</p><p>• <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Granville_Square" target="_blank">200 Granville Street</a></b>, which is an office tower and the former home of the Vancouver Sun, has stunning trees. One of the great joys of working there was seeing the cherry blossoms every spring. From Waterfront SkyTrain Station, walk west on the sidewalk just past the parkade entrance and then head up the stairs to the plaza.</p><p>• <b><a href="https://vancouver.ca/your-government/getting-to-city-hall.aspx" target="_blank">Vancouver City Hall</a> </b>has lovely trees flanking the statue of British explorer Capt. George Vancouver, for whom the city is named. If you face the other way, you'll get the trees with some of the cityscape in the background. Both are great views.</p><p>• <b>Graveley Street</b> between Lillouet and Windermere streets is one of the most popular spots to view the blossoms. These are Akebono cherry blossoms.</p><p>• <b>Arbutus Ridge</b> is a must-see spot. It's arguably the most beautiful (IMO) of all the cherry blossom locales. Cherry blossom trees seem to stretch forever along eight consecutive blocks on West 22nd Avenue from Arbutus Street to Carnavon Street.</p><p>• <b>East 3rd Avenue</b> from Rupert Street to Skeena Street is another popular location. There is a perfect line of cherry trees, drawing the eyes to the Sikh Temple at East 3rd Avenue and Skeena Street.</p><p>• The <b><a href="https://visit.ubc.ca/2022/03/5-places-to-see-cherry-blossoms-at-ubc/" target="_blank">University of British Columbia</a></b> has more than 500 cherry trees. Nitobe Garden, which requires a ticket, is one of the most beautiful spots to view the blooms. You can also find cherry blossoms at the campus' Lower Mall and at the Chan Centre for no charge. </p><p><b>Want to find more blossoms? Check out this fantastic <a href="https://finder.vcbf.ca/" target="_blank">interactive tree map</a> from the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival. </b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2s7-s--mwQvnV7Fp36Du8T-qGo2RXlwjulmUKpAMQWM65qvJUIawYX9EFQWTZaP1Qgmr3mAI7ISf7Fz9irm6hOSYTUFHmeR8a1Oe0AD-Ev0-ZLlZxyZg55q71E7ojo7DJqYKuGgZVd8JE1elmHzkSlktcrRGxvmh2ENy2pz5RAr84cYbs22btX796/s4032/Cherry%20blossoms.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Springtime in Vancouver and the entire region means stunning cherry blossoms" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2s7-s--mwQvnV7Fp36Du8T-qGo2RXlwjulmUKpAMQWM65qvJUIawYX9EFQWTZaP1Qgmr3mAI7ISf7Fz9irm6hOSYTUFHmeR8a1Oe0AD-Ev0-ZLlZxyZg55q71E7ojo7DJqYKuGgZVd8JE1elmHzkSlktcrRGxvmh2ENy2pz5RAr84cYbs22btX796/w480-h640/Cherry%20blossoms.jpg" title="The cherry blossom, every variety of it, is pure perfection and signals springtime in Vancouver" width="480" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">WHAT ABOUT BLOSSOMS IN THE SUBURBS?</span></h2><p><b>They're everywhere! Here are some highlights. Please comment if you can recommend a suburb locale.</b></p><p><b>Burnaby:<br /></b>Check out the Akebono canopy at Buchanan Street and Rosser Avenue. You'll find this intersection near Brentwood Town Centre.</p><p><b>New Westminster:<br /></b>According to the New Westminster Record, you'll see beautiful, mature Akebono trees at <a href="https://www.newwestcity.ca/city_hall/" target="_blank">New Westminster City Hall</a>. Neighbouring Tipperary Park and Friendship Gardens also have a variety of trees, all of which will bloom at different times, offering an extended season. <a href="https://www.newwestrecord.ca/local-news/heres-where-to-find-new-westminsters-best-cherry-blossoms-5219026" target="_blank">See more spots here.</a> </p><p><b>Richmond:<br /><a href="https://www.richmond.ca/parks/parks/SigParks/parkinfo/park.aspx?ID=17" target="_blank">Garry Point Park</a> </b>has gorgeous cherry trees set against the backdrop of the Fraser River. The Wakayama Kenjin Kai Society planted the trees in 2000 to celebrate the pioneering legacy of Richmond’s historic Japanese community.</p><p><b>Coquitlam:<br /><a href="https://www.coquitlam.ca/facilities/facility/details/towncentrepark-84" target="_blank">Town Centre Park</a></b> has a number of stunning cherry blossoms, scattered throughout. The park is at 1299 Pinetree Way, just north of the Coquitlam Centre shopping mall.</p><p><b>Port Coquitlam: <br /></b>You'll find some beautiful cherry blossoms in front of the <b><a href="https://www.portcoquitlam.ca/explore-poco/city-hall/" target="_blank">Port Coquitlam City Hall</a></b> at 2580 Shaughnessy St.</p><p><br /></p><h3>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/02/fairmont-chateau-frontenac-in-quebec.html">Fairmont Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html">Best Instagram photo spots in New York<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html">Top things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise<br /></a>MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html">The prettiest Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></h3><div><h3><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a><br /><br /></b></h3></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhua80RSC2zenurzQaNufZlMUsWfOZ60dWbL3M96jlqspBDG5-zJGyxCHZ1bfxNg15YC6_qeubQH7SQasnvN12biZqzBPSQSUZcZloJZorvkr5VMSabO1XdeAPoHTkpjG6ZS8Pdbyz4oY5OQQxJD8lH3BChFvYr15kKQUNtzcf0xmIRvaEd__J5Fp/s3780/A%20lovely%20carpet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Springtime in Vancouver means cherry blossoms." border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhua80RSC2zenurzQaNufZlMUsWfOZ60dWbL3M96jlqspBDG5-zJGyxCHZ1bfxNg15YC6_qeubQH7SQasnvN12biZqzBPSQSUZcZloJZorvkr5VMSabO1XdeAPoHTkpjG6ZS8Pdbyz4oY5OQQxJD8lH3BChFvYr15kKQUNtzcf0xmIRvaEd__J5Fp/w512-h640/A%20lovely%20carpet.jpg" title="Look at this lovely carpet ... cherry blossoms are stunning even after they've fallen." width="512" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG<br /><br /><br /><br /></b></p></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Vancouver49.2827291 -123.120737520.972495263821152 -158.27698750000002 77.59296293617885 -87.9644875tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-46600831796557872782023-03-16T22:13:00.013-07:002024-01-16T08:01:58.461-08:00The top Instagram photo spots in Banff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIveq5X2-4TfD19I2wA4y-frf9OafUgL3e_SptMEyLarBNc74Op56Aq1QBUQUF1L9EuQtEznbBgUnXnVX_JUs1N40UyGOgHL6HsLBeiPR0WDAFxnibt4fDRyLGGxPDetgUYa24w1aPOAWq7GGQbv-qEVulTyveYVjx3QnQTgQA_IjYYvXP93frcyBn/s2760/Banff%20sign.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Best Instagram photo spots in Banff" border="0" data-original-height="2760" data-original-width="2760" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIveq5X2-4TfD19I2wA4y-frf9OafUgL3e_SptMEyLarBNc74Op56Aq1QBUQUF1L9EuQtEznbBgUnXnVX_JUs1N40UyGOgHL6HsLBeiPR0WDAFxnibt4fDRyLGGxPDetgUYa24w1aPOAWq7GGQbv-qEVulTyveYVjx3QnQTgQA_IjYYvXP93frcyBn/w640-h640/Banff%20sign.jpg" title="The Banff sign is one of the must-sees for Instagram" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">I ♥️ Banff because every spot is as pretty as a postcard! Here are the top photo sights for your Instagram feed.<span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><p>I have to preface this piece by saying that I consider myself such a lucky person because I live within driving distance of <a href="https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff" target="_blank">Banff National Park</a>. </p><p>It's a long drive, mind you, but it's still driveable, and it's in my own country, and I get to travel here using my own currency and with my own health plan should anything happen to me. </p><p>So I've driven this route a zillion times (only a slight exaggeration) and I'm still not tired of it. There is simply so much to see that you'll never run out of new things to love. </p><p>For those of you who are researching a trip here, my best tip is to <a href="https://www.yyc.com/" target="_blank">fly to Calgary</a> and rent a car. You could try to do all of your sightseeing by shuttle but honestly it would cost you an arm and a leg. </p><p>From Calgary it's a 1.5-hr drive to Banff. But don't stop here! This is the route I'd take: </p><p>Calgary to Banff on Hwy 1 (90 minutes)<br />Banff to Lake Louise on Hwy 1 (45 minutes)<br />Lake Louise to Jasper on Hwy AB 93 N (2 hours, 40 minutes without stops)</p><p>Hwy 1 is the Trans-Canada Highway and goes coast to coast all the way across Canada. Someday I hope to be able to road-trip this route. </p><p>Meanwhile, Hwy AB 93 N between <a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/" target="_blank">Lake Louise</a> and <a href="https://www.jasper-alberta.com/" target="_blank">Jasper</a> is better known as the <a href="https://icefieldsparkway.com/" target="_blank">Icefields Parkway</a>. You'll note I said this stretch will take about two hours and 40 minutes to drive it but that's only if you don't make a single stop. But you should stop ... that's the whole point of taking this highway. And with stops, it can take five or six hours to drive this stretch, which is one of the prettiest routes I've ever seen.</p><p>Below, I've posted my personal favourites but <a href="https://icefieldsparkway.com/things-to-do-see/popular-stops-along-the-way" target="_blank">click on this link</a> and you'll see every possible stop along the Icefields Parkway; trust me, they're all gorgeous. Also, here is a map of the Icefields Parkway stops.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxPEBt61z0QlUNNoWaPUQ3z31RD2xH923AEaGXGKhjThu1rHlOuBAuZnumnF6UgE4nlTLZmFcfvKBvpMKyHGO9HcfTY299GWxHmxLrrVeCRaYhQM32o95QAuY6UlzLCPTAnmutSTA2gg0xEmbsHpqWpdnHfMW-ejJDMhyN58KG74syo0kVbSc2pFi/s2832/Icefields%20Parkway%20map.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Icefields Parkway map, every stop you should make" border="0" data-original-height="2832" data-original-width="2124" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxPEBt61z0QlUNNoWaPUQ3z31RD2xH923AEaGXGKhjThu1rHlOuBAuZnumnF6UgE4nlTLZmFcfvKBvpMKyHGO9HcfTY299GWxHmxLrrVeCRaYhQM32o95QAuY6UlzLCPTAnmutSTA2gg0xEmbsHpqWpdnHfMW-ejJDMhyN58KG74syo0kVbSc2pFi/w480-h640/Icefields%20Parkway%20map.jpg" title="The stops on the Icefields Parkway are numerous and gorgeous. Stop at as many as you can; you won't be sorry." width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>In 2022, this was my only road trip and it was a great one. In addition to all the beauty in Banff, which is better known, there are some stunning sights closer to Jasper and I've included photos of my favourite spots here as well.</p><p>The best thing is that with the exception of the <a href="https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/columbia-icefield/skywalk/" target="_blank">Columbia Icefields Skywalk</a> (and this is not expensive), everything is free to see. So happy planning, and if you have any questions about how to navigate these parks just ask in the comments and I'll help however I can.</p><p><b>Just remember:</b></p><p>• You’ll need a <a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/park-pass-purchase" target="_blank">Parks Canada pass</a> to visit these national parks. The passes can be purchased in advance online or at the park gates.</p><p>• Check your travel dates because spring comes LATE here. The road to the popular Moraine Lake is often still closed in very late May if the road there is deemed unsafe. </p><p>• Also, it's important to note that personal vehicle access to Moraine Lake is not available as of 2023. Reserve a seat on the Parks Canada shuttle, book a guided tour, or take Roam Transit (fall service only). <a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/experiences/moraine-lake" target="_blank">Get all the info you'll need here.</a> </p><p>• Try to visit in shoulder season, as peak season hotel rates are pretty prohibitive.</p><p>Now, let's start taking some photos!</p><p><br /></p><p>The <b><a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/experiences/banff-sign" target="_blank">Banff sign, my main photo</a>,</b> is a huge Instagram draw so be prepared for lineups. The sign can be found southbound on Mt. Norquay Road, on the right. There is parking across the street from the sign.</p><p>Here are the rest of my top photo picks:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjacBOZRcsnsVRK5F1RFrTCg9AhsBIuliZCTWX7FRZUv3uGR554Eb9AxNseedNKKi4u2xE8ebDEKzhR7KfcQgTP7Rg_HZGhx7C4EgI-ZoVtpN3S2yObVA3CXv5ovl3DpzwYEioKOExfyZLS6r3TTYC6Y-35NhdiJtIGe-2-g0KGMjfyAk9vg7PApG4Q/s3270/downtown%20Banff.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="3270" data-original-width="2452" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjacBOZRcsnsVRK5F1RFrTCg9AhsBIuliZCTWX7FRZUv3uGR554Eb9AxNseedNKKi4u2xE8ebDEKzhR7KfcQgTP7Rg_HZGhx7C4EgI-ZoVtpN3S2yObVA3CXv5ovl3DpzwYEioKOExfyZLS6r3TTYC6Y-35NhdiJtIGe-2-g0KGMjfyAk9vg7PApG4Q/w480-h640/downtown%20Banff.jpg" title="Downtown Banff: Isn't it picture-perfect?" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.banff.ca/" target="_blank">Downtown Banff</a></b></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtuXKtvtGyF1mmK8YFEhwIiTdAG0ypmCk_MTjBkLsUuktZ1kH1G1m2LlWX8qYTdBIB8ReBz6Y6gjqaIbssky4kow7bu84KcAD211OBMhyrotnTMxCHxZgm8HK3EO4q-8itKaWSYrsmDSx1DfgDuu3KAIyUIWugTnrCsqEb_nCHZq8KQKPb6QtyYT8/s1059/Bow%20Lake.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="742" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvtuXKtvtGyF1mmK8YFEhwIiTdAG0ypmCk_MTjBkLsUuktZ1kH1G1m2LlWX8qYTdBIB8ReBz6Y6gjqaIbssky4kow7bu84KcAD211OBMhyrotnTMxCHxZgm8HK3EO4q-8itKaWSYrsmDSx1DfgDuu3KAIyUIWugTnrCsqEb_nCHZq8KQKPb6QtyYT8/w448-h640/Bow%20Lake.jpg" title="Bow Lake is so pretty it doesn't seem real. An Instagram must." width="448" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.travelalberta.com/ca/listings/bow-lake-1997/" target="_blank">Bow Lake</a> (40 km/25 mi from Lake Louise)<br /><br /></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg30V-uTpnaKqJF6Mj8mknnEnBMUWHzxgmHbWupbpFtZWDgK2I2ZN0Ip7CU4Lu8r7xEuyw11QxaBbX9MA-uYdv4wFtT6ijqGNfUJQ6srrLEDbhCEeUEVT0JMhtoicEPzBcT46a7CvTrUg-Rw8OugJke6kI09qcVfXFKyCWEbZTG_fcGAoe0eduDZsXl/s2739/Banff%20Springs%20Hotel.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="2739" data-original-width="2270" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg30V-uTpnaKqJF6Mj8mknnEnBMUWHzxgmHbWupbpFtZWDgK2I2ZN0Ip7CU4Lu8r7xEuyw11QxaBbX9MA-uYdv4wFtT6ijqGNfUJQ6srrLEDbhCEeUEVT0JMhtoicEPzBcT46a7CvTrUg-Rw8OugJke6kI09qcVfXFKyCWEbZTG_fcGAoe0eduDZsXl/w530-h640/Banff%20Springs%20Hotel.jpg" title="The Banff Springs Hotel should be in every photo." width="530" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.fairmont.com/banff-springs/" target="_blank">Banff Springs Hotel</a><br /><br /></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNO69K9eC32B9Ncq4ENtER-IcfLafPTbiI-dVRIlrsc01KUAjFBi3V5jzIbcetEJtiWoBL6wpgbnou_hV7VjmDAJ83TAVxZ1C9XGnjCgygLtpLBVbW4hv2IXWQvJerQFxc7JxkD-tLh69Gx6HIl7J0piCIRsRVX-8XLKoA4cZtOD1OvR7Z1daAaUBM/s2947/Lake%20Minnewanka.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="2947" data-original-width="2791" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNO69K9eC32B9Ncq4ENtER-IcfLafPTbiI-dVRIlrsc01KUAjFBi3V5jzIbcetEJtiWoBL6wpgbnou_hV7VjmDAJ83TAVxZ1C9XGnjCgygLtpLBVbW4hv2IXWQvJerQFxc7JxkD-tLh69Gx6HIl7J0piCIRsRVX-8XLKoA4cZtOD1OvR7Z1daAaUBM/w606-h640/Lake%20Minnewanka.jpg" title="Lake Minnewanka is so beautiful and just a short drive from Banff." width="606" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b><a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/experiences/lake-minnewanka" target="_blank">Lake Minnewanka</a> (11 km/7 mi from Banff)</b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKqdwnTZ4KyEmjKSOMOHghmLU89Z_7YYsr7hE7pm1iU9WFm3EfpH-oKIoq2IWVBgm4eXENe1IXdF1t32ga-cvR7v8xqvdrzr3Q09VH-_-Y673f7gAHIr5pyp4W7at-5bCIqMg3YhMOvAC0j6woKsOV8MVhO6qDQWBb-XaCsW8PM0_9X9MXoII3Up2/s3610/Banff%20hoodoos.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="3610" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKqdwnTZ4KyEmjKSOMOHghmLU89Z_7YYsr7hE7pm1iU9WFm3EfpH-oKIoq2IWVBgm4eXENe1IXdF1t32ga-cvR7v8xqvdrzr3Q09VH-_-Y673f7gAHIr5pyp4W7at-5bCIqMg3YhMOvAC0j6woKsOV8MVhO6qDQWBb-XaCsW8PM0_9X9MXoII3Up2/w536-h640/Banff%20hoodoos.jpg" title="Don't miss the stunning Hoodoos when you're in Banff." width="536" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b><a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/blog/summer-itineraries-chilling-and-sightseeing-around-banff-national-park" target="_blank">Banff Hoodoos</a> (1.9 km/1.2 mi walk from Banff; also driveable)</b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQK_16hR5-0yNw4-DY_7JUGqbYsmQ4JDFwi_datxat9JCbjKS36E8zzqX6WYLd-m4VeZNbLpDULIbZKEdo6SbCcfxWks57RfgmUqaYtLzLWVy21mRZoFRzba7bpdf6XbtNQQT58Hne82kLSIQDPqjQRZzeztnYCbKfxnuCJwS6MWVvXOIugMeNpNhH/s3450/Surprise%20Corner.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="3450" data-original-width="1941" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQK_16hR5-0yNw4-DY_7JUGqbYsmQ4JDFwi_datxat9JCbjKS36E8zzqX6WYLd-m4VeZNbLpDULIbZKEdo6SbCcfxWks57RfgmUqaYtLzLWVy21mRZoFRzba7bpdf6XbtNQQT58Hne82kLSIQDPqjQRZzeztnYCbKfxnuCJwS6MWVvXOIugMeNpNhH/w360-h640/Surprise%20Corner.jpg" title="Surprise Corner offers the best views of the Banff Springs Hotel" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b><a href="https://banff.ca/1110/Surprise-Corner" target="_blank">Surprise Corner Viewpoint</a> (2.3 km/1.4 mi walk from Banff; also driveable)</b></p><p><br style="text-align: left;" /></p></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qUijccrJg1m2cBVNPym2__bydw1VtHT3I9oQbWgTtNr7jHJ8XXDnbNqlF_y9rgvq7e8jtwOqPbXDAyhwM7AEtJ3fGG0a42jNtQXNF6JX53ofiXeb3MBGKHCa6dRUJa-Ox5HL_1ClEIgPsTuMBMKt6HbCl1Zeod30uiH9gYbavv4DbcFkKQPqTrPb/s1280/Banff%20wildlife.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="803" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6qUijccrJg1m2cBVNPym2__bydw1VtHT3I9oQbWgTtNr7jHJ8XXDnbNqlF_y9rgvq7e8jtwOqPbXDAyhwM7AEtJ3fGG0a42jNtQXNF6JX53ofiXeb3MBGKHCa6dRUJa-Ox5HL_1ClEIgPsTuMBMKt6HbCl1Zeod30uiH9gYbavv4DbcFkKQPqTrPb/w402-h640/Banff%20wildlife.jpg" title="There's wildlife everywhere in Banff" width="402" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>You'll find wildlife all through Banff National Park.</b></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRCcrMw2csN7EVYS3Q9XLkulxIJSwtpw58ZNtdElJwiux4Y_R6SydYHRKP7Qxcgll2D74uJU8Z3X_cR0Ntpz2-dz4Qyl6PbVtvKza_ANU0vK_t5fJW-mIZrQ2zHa1HgXVuMtI38So3pi5wNh-CB-ujWzjd6ydteomFB7_iXbmtprhErjFD2A5Q54A/s2808/Moraine%20Lake%20real.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="2808" data-original-width="2106" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRCcrMw2csN7EVYS3Q9XLkulxIJSwtpw58ZNtdElJwiux4Y_R6SydYHRKP7Qxcgll2D74uJU8Z3X_cR0Ntpz2-dz4Qyl6PbVtvKza_ANU0vK_t5fJW-mIZrQ2zHa1HgXVuMtI38So3pi5wNh-CB-ujWzjd6ydteomFB7_iXbmtprhErjFD2A5Q54A/w480-h640/Moraine%20Lake%20real.jpg" title="Iconic Moraine Lake. Private vehicles are no longer permitted here." width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.banfflakelouise.com/experiences/moraine-lake" target="_blank">Moraine Lake</a></b></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_N3wcjUl0O9AuujXSG7uotiF01TcXjIn-FeSHiduOAlE2yZoPUpKeJVZ7yea3ZxiskLbcEcbJTv1hCDyaf8c13q4jcN6OOYq9ss-SC-SNVlFUjxeJKB3Cpx-XChpRYcGNli1O86dDOKtDo3-uSNH1fDrOx8fbkFi6fqxosAZgSQaPDqPLq3Wow_8/s1106/Parkway.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="1106" data-original-width="745" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_N3wcjUl0O9AuujXSG7uotiF01TcXjIn-FeSHiduOAlE2yZoPUpKeJVZ7yea3ZxiskLbcEcbJTv1hCDyaf8c13q4jcN6OOYq9ss-SC-SNVlFUjxeJKB3Cpx-XChpRYcGNli1O86dDOKtDo3-uSNH1fDrOx8fbkFi6fqxosAZgSQaPDqPLq3Wow_8/w432-h640/Parkway.jpg" title="A common scene as you travel the Columbia Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper" width="432" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b>A common sight on the <a href="https://icefieldsparkway.com/" target="_blank">Icefields Parkway</a> (Hwy AB 93 N) btw Banff and Jasper</b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyFV9f6CPjcV2ZIrYSye8Sd71UiQsLNICzd4RZmHwFdhNuuvzwYlCUkSipl0ZeeS_A9czX7ynrMia3LWabQMxHaRhiLtyn1iG156NqMJL6_Wl0g02t9kHQA_VCcjantQXVuLGWt040vcKJqksE1rSJgSiPAXjsx8BUEcMz_d-mp4DbNpe-gvzC-LJ6/s4021/Skywalk.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="4021" data-original-width="2261" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyFV9f6CPjcV2ZIrYSye8Sd71UiQsLNICzd4RZmHwFdhNuuvzwYlCUkSipl0ZeeS_A9czX7ynrMia3LWabQMxHaRhiLtyn1iG156NqMJL6_Wl0g02t9kHQA_VCcjantQXVuLGWt040vcKJqksE1rSJgSiPAXjsx8BUEcMz_d-mp4DbNpe-gvzC-LJ6/w360-h640/Skywalk.jpg" title="The Columbia Icefield Skywalk in Banff is about the only sight that requires a ticket. It's worth it!" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b><a href="https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/columbia-icefield/skywalk/" target="_blank">Columbia Icefield Skywalk</a> (100 km/60 mi from Jasper)</b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgFhkFNKjuobgRjKJdyP-Eb5uQ4ucC62uuAjkgbbGWzOL-t0oiy7aQ0z6ljNSAiprdX9b-Ir3adqFfna-b35ccRezvfhr2N_e5kB63EIYcnRh79bfEQ9Q4HYIpR9uVhv1yj5MFLCMKsOayJ7t2pbZAemJ4UMwNWD7HzShnv6usrCH3UBgHp3Id9UE/s1355/Maligne%20Canyon.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgFhkFNKjuobgRjKJdyP-Eb5uQ4ucC62uuAjkgbbGWzOL-t0oiy7aQ0z6ljNSAiprdX9b-Ir3adqFfna-b35ccRezvfhr2N_e5kB63EIYcnRh79bfEQ9Q4HYIpR9uVhv1yj5MFLCMKsOayJ7t2pbZAemJ4UMwNWD7HzShnv6usrCH3UBgHp3Id9UE/w392-h640/Maligne%20Canyon.jpg" title="Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park is stunning" width="392" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/maligne-canyon/" target="_blank">Maligne Canyon</a> in Jasper National Park is the deepest canyon in the Rockies.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxtZ2krMltYU-r0Hk1myl6BogAUGzW95de6g50z8d4lOAwsPLZ6oD1zkxe-qLUe4C6q728JowaClJYGilbcfppStcCegSLhKL3Kxwy2XD2A7NHyxptTBA7mtcrs_E-oEyPqaY0iTiehU6Aq1Ptd-itxLEk9ilnAypoRHXMqUxVKVB0RkYufe_EoSB/s3941/athabasca%20falls.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="3941" data-original-width="2956" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcxtZ2krMltYU-r0Hk1myl6BogAUGzW95de6g50z8d4lOAwsPLZ6oD1zkxe-qLUe4C6q728JowaClJYGilbcfppStcCegSLhKL3Kxwy2XD2A7NHyxptTBA7mtcrs_E-oEyPqaY0iTiehU6Aq1Ptd-itxLEk9ilnAypoRHXMqUxVKVB0RkYufe_EoSB/w480-h640/athabasca%20falls.jpg" title="Athabasca Falls is closer to Jasper and you should definitely stop for a look and a photo" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b><a href="https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/itineraires-itineraries/athabasca" target="_blank">Athabasca Falls</a> (30 km/19 mi from Jasper)</b></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWCCc-FiRWwVXmuvh7Jaz00SfwVGivpXKG5BaStqgfRN6AuQW4VRfUazAKzO_2GmeFR-zT467yESuNoSKe6AIE5vuAsSnq2PrtJK3RC8X5FF0jx2d2Tx7bhgPfMK2Z10snmyETaZNzhkCoZPXOVL9B1lgD9L9HU4lSfslJhwhb-bonZsO7nHEzYV3/s1037/patricia%20lake.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="These are the best spots in Banff for that perfect Instagram photo" border="0" data-original-height="1037" data-original-width="770" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWCCc-FiRWwVXmuvh7Jaz00SfwVGivpXKG5BaStqgfRN6AuQW4VRfUazAKzO_2GmeFR-zT467yESuNoSKe6AIE5vuAsSnq2PrtJK3RC8X5FF0jx2d2Tx7bhgPfMK2Z10snmyETaZNzhkCoZPXOVL9B1lgD9L9HU4lSfslJhwhb-bonZsO7nHEzYV3/w476-h640/patricia%20lake.jpg" title="Pyramid Lake in Jasper, what a beauty!" width="476" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><b><a href="https://www.jasper.travel/accommodations/pyramid-lake-resort/" target="_blank">Pyramid Lake</a> in Jasper National Park</b></p><p><br style="text-align: left;" /></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Do you have a question about one of these Banff photo spots, or how to get from A to B? Leave a comment.</h4><div><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">MORE: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/where-can-i-take-insta-pictures-in-NYC-New-York.html" target="_blank">Best Instagram photo spots in New York</a></h2><div><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG<br /></b></div><div><p><br /></p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Banff, Canada51.1784304 -115.570790322.868196563821158 -150.7270403 79.488664236178849 -80.4145403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-31632397562818709712023-03-12T18:51:00.019-07:002023-03-25T18:39:08.844-07:00Red-carpet looks: Where to shop in Los Angeles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ok2rvQ2smm5-oZ-FdP1OntIfzh6btI6VXouWdMTD363YxsgqDW0PusivmIJ6TBb2_8mA2zEshFk8Gvt9pwxw6PP0Vn1db3hGM_33aM7pqnlbjD9lCWrLrIlsAj8IkVePIYjdqnRjer3ZFMEi_r0KOqygMACqNJNTWh-undOUqUQcTEwl4SNSQRSU/s4008/Hollywood%20square.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The iconic Hollywood sign in Los Angeles" border="0" data-original-height="3411" data-original-width="4008" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ok2rvQ2smm5-oZ-FdP1OntIfzh6btI6VXouWdMTD363YxsgqDW0PusivmIJ6TBb2_8mA2zEshFk8Gvt9pwxw6PP0Vn1db3hGM_33aM7pqnlbjD9lCWrLrIlsAj8IkVePIYjdqnRjer3ZFMEi_r0KOqygMACqNJNTWh-undOUqUQcTEwl4SNSQRSU/w640-h544/Hollywood%20square.jpg" title="Nothing says Hollywood like the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles." width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Lights, camera, fashion! Thanks, Academy Awards red carpet, for giving us some sorely needed glamour at Oscars 2023.<span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span></span></h3><p>If you're a fan of Oscars glitz like I am, it may even have started you thinking about where to go for some serious shopping. In my view there's no better place for a stylish vacation than Los Angeles, where the Oscars took place. (On a side note, can I just say how absolutely over-the-moon thrilled I am that Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan and Jamie Lee Curtis won acting Oscars for Everything Everywhere All at Once?)</p><p>Annnyway ... I visit L.A. a lot because it's an easy getaway for me and I can assure you that from trendy boutiques to designer showrooms, this city is home to some of the most renowned fashion districts in the world.</p><p>If you're travelling here in the next while, keep your eyes open for knockoff versions of some of the stunning Oscar gowns worn by celebrities on the red carpet. Knockoff brands may not be for everyone, but they do offer an opportunity for fashion lovers to capture the glamour of the Oscars red carpet without breaking the bank. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33RxDoBmGsY0NKWlUPynzYUZUJ7jOPrGe2qg8hDrimPYGkNSaYEJwljoY6jJ-T8KSeoSuHCjTlqUCwf0agQvXlPVvywc2GckGUNdrjCHOxU7XBnwz2RyAkbpbJkH69kJznKheFQ_5ZnmFAWIvsXBQifnvjzDy9XNuPlSA0J4i5PuoQ7sO9WUVk-rJ/s3978/Rodeo%20Drive.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills: Luxury shopping at its finest" border="0" data-original-height="2982" data-original-width="3978" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33RxDoBmGsY0NKWlUPynzYUZUJ7jOPrGe2qg8hDrimPYGkNSaYEJwljoY6jJ-T8KSeoSuHCjTlqUCwf0agQvXlPVvywc2GckGUNdrjCHOxU7XBnwz2RyAkbpbJkH69kJznKheFQ_5ZnmFAWIvsXBQifnvjzDy9XNuPlSA0J4i5PuoQ7sO9WUVk-rJ/w640-h480/Rodeo%20Drive.jpg" title="If you're looking for a red-carpet design, Rodeo Drive is the place to do it." width="640" /></a></div><p><b>Here are some of the top fashion districts in L.A. ... Start getting that credit card warmed up now!</b></p><p><b>Melrose Avenue: </b>This iconic street is a must-visit for fashionistas, with a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage shops and trendy cafes. Melrose Avenue is also home to some of the top stylists and designers who work with Hollywood A-listers, so keep an eye out for celebrity sightings.</p><p><b>Beverly Hills:</b> Known for its luxury shopping, Beverly Hills is the perfect place to find designer dresses, shoes and accessories for your own red carpet moment. Rodeo Drive is the most famous street in Beverly Hills, but the surrounding areas are also packed with luxury boutiques and specialty stores.</p><p><b>Downtown L.A.:</b> If you're looking for unique finds and eclectic styles head to downtown LA, where you'll find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. The Fashion District in downtown L.A. is a treasure trove of wholesale shops, fabric stores and designer showrooms.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW1r435UTbspTq7RZyA4rpHG58iD9cW5yJIxDYlfi4Mjl43zo8hJtu1nvG4CkxhE86XRhk04HFL39g88-pToXXRHXjVbGm3-L6MBU-Wvj99yVLFvBkYd7v_ywmUEMKfGNzOeVtGY3JJ7VZHiVAwD4qPczWjELn8HcRooiAwyLd0r-pXwQ5ZgxCA5X/s4204/shopping.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Love the Academy Awards red carpet looks? Here's where to shop in L.A. to get those Oscar-worthy styles" border="0" data-original-height="2803" data-original-width="4204" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW1r435UTbspTq7RZyA4rpHG58iD9cW5yJIxDYlfi4Mjl43zo8hJtu1nvG4CkxhE86XRhk04HFL39g88-pToXXRHXjVbGm3-L6MBU-Wvj99yVLFvBkYd7v_ywmUEMKfGNzOeVtGY3JJ7VZHiVAwD4qPczWjELn8HcRooiAwyLd0r-pXwQ5ZgxCA5X/w640-h426/shopping.jpg" title="Love the Oscars red carpet? Shop at L.A.'s trendiest shopping areas" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>Besides the shopping, there are plenty of other things to do in L.A. that might augment that Hollywood vibe. Here are some tips:</b></p><p><b>Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame:</b> This iconic sidewalk is a tribute to some of the biggest names in entertainment, with more than 2,600 stars to see. </p><p><b>Attend a taping of a TV show:</b> L.A. is home to many popular TV shows that offer tickets to live tapings. This is a great way to get an inside look at the entertainment industry and see some of your favourite stars up close. If you're planning to do this, start your request online way in advance of your trip.</p><p><b>Take a studio tour:</b> Many studios offer behind-the-scenes tours that give visitors a glimpse of the magic that happens on set. There's a good chance you might see some of the props and costumes from Oscar-nominated films.</p><p>You can't go wrong choosing L.A. as a destination during awards season or anytime, really. With so many fashion districts, boutiques and (hopefully!) celebrity sightings, it's sure to be an Oscar-worthy vacation.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><div><b><br /></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Los Angeles34.0522342 -118.24368495.7420003638211554 -153.3999349 62.362468036178846 -83.0874349tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-8503278883919608152023-03-09T16:47:00.001-08:002023-04-09T07:50:57.098-07:00How to get from Vancouver airport to the cruise ship dock<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxVLD3Gwi37zFEw99aNA8FytlyhDicd1ndifHmlqyEw1-3TR1x5zIBeyMzNdPcY5exT5rnHoEWv3EjF_lC1jTwidBDpR5muAA8bqHrv_pNrbkc1v7oJ1kf3xXeq4MBbvf--mdxBV4kBurMdlesM3ELZ6WktV3vivJHGXxAOFZSmP4q6gwgz1urQqE/s3471/port.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cruising to or from Vancouver? Here's how to get to the airport" border="0" data-original-height="3471" data-original-width="2603" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxVLD3Gwi37zFEw99aNA8FytlyhDicd1ndifHmlqyEw1-3TR1x5zIBeyMzNdPcY5exT5rnHoEWv3EjF_lC1jTwidBDpR5muAA8bqHrv_pNrbkc1v7oJ1kf3xXeq4MBbvf--mdxBV4kBurMdlesM3ELZ6WktV3vivJHGXxAOFZSmP4q6gwgz1urQqE/w480-h640/port.jpg" title="Here's how to get from YVR Vancouver airport to the stunning Canada Place cruise ship terminal." width="480" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Planning a cruise that starts or ends in Vancouver, Canada? Here’s how to get from YVR airport to the cruise ship terminal.</h3><p><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span></span>There are several transportation choices for getting to the Vancouver cruise ship dock from YVR airport (or the other way around), depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few options:<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDV6oveQGAj_72ifNC5PwKpO-biVm1gYhhSYU7HA2HL1Sj4HyFtp8G5w3iJ65S7Clsbsb4CdE8xT9XTSB4bGwrRPgyFKSPH9jkuKC2hEp3c40zcRyWY4Z37JKLp7CxvV6IAkvBjR2QEzMlyMP4y8lVspeq-ood3y2uNNJ67wVRoEV8OzjXzt2OTe2b/s1336/Skytrain.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Getting from YVR Vancouver airport to downtown cruise terminal" border="0" data-original-height="1336" data-original-width="827" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDV6oveQGAj_72ifNC5PwKpO-biVm1gYhhSYU7HA2HL1Sj4HyFtp8G5w3iJ65S7Clsbsb4CdE8xT9XTSB4bGwrRPgyFKSPH9jkuKC2hEp3c40zcRyWY4Z37JKLp7CxvV6IAkvBjR2QEzMlyMP4y8lVspeq-ood3y2uNNJ67wVRoEV8OzjXzt2OTe2b/w396-h640/Skytrain.jpg" title="There are few cities whose transit from the airport to downtown is more efficient or as easy as Vancouver's." width="396" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">SKYTRAIN</span></h2><p>This is my favourite mode of transport. I've been to a lot of cities and I don't know if I've seen one with better or more efficient and straightforward transportation from the airport to the city core than this one. (I'm not just exhibiting home-town pride here, either!) From YVR airport, just take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Waterfront Station, which is a short walk from the Canada Place cruise terminal.</p><p><b>Here's how:</b></p><p>• Canada Line’s YVR Airport Station is located between the international and domestic terminals. The train ride to Waterfront Station is 26 minutes long.</p><p>• The <a href="https://thecanadaline.com/" target="_blank">Canada Line</a> was built with airport travellers in mind and the cars are roomy, with seats built to accommodate luggage. It still does get crowded with local commuters in rush-hour periods but there's usually plenty of room outside of those times. </p><p>• There are several types of fares but here are two examples that most visitors will use: </p><p><b> Adult fare:</b> If you're an adult travelling in peak times (before 6:30 p.m. weekdays), the cost to travel from YVR Airport to Waterfront is CAD $9.45. </p><p><b> Concession fare:</b> If you qualify for a concession ticket (ages 13-18 or 65+), the cost is $8.05. </p><p><b> Travellers 12 and under</b> ride for free with a fare-paying customer.</p><p><b>Find more fare types <a href="https://www.translink.ca/transit-fares/pricing-and-fare-zones#fare-zones" target="_blank">here</a>.</b></p><p>• <b>Payment pro tip: </b>You don't need to line up at the ticket vending machines to buy a ticket to ride the SkyTrain. All SkyTrain stations are equipped with <a href="https://buzzer.translink.ca/?p=51910&_gl" target="_blank">credit card tap payment</a> at the turnstiles. So breeze on by those sometimes horrendous lineups and just tap your Visa or Mastercard to access the station. **The only very important thing to remember is that you'll need to tap out on the other end and YOU'LL NEED TO TAP OUT USING THE SAME CREDIT CARD. Otherwise the system will think you've taken two separate trips and charge you for two trips. </p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">CAR RENTALS</span></h2><p>If you're going right to your ship or to a hotel near the cruise terminal, you won't need a car. But if you need or want one, car rental agencies and their car lots are on-site at the airport and easy to access, with no shuttle to the cars required like in some cities. If you can, prebook and sign up for that company's loyalty program which can often allow travellers to bypass the lines and go straight to pick up their car. </p><p>These car rental companies have vehicles at YVR airport: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, National, Thrifty and Enterprise. See the full list of car rental agencies, including off-airport options, <a href="https://www.yvr.ca/en/passengers/transportation/car-rentals" target="_blank">here</a>. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0Ut73naF4-j1kDMizKDf0HtzE6vVRa83ngNLHvSwpEo7FUjCwgHs3uHwaFQGl8GI1WGHnd1jquaIP1uF77pruizz7amxaEA_WjlvcMFS2FaHAp1bA1rwR6ePcFcy8VkAhTCi-kAcDSdQ_wufSGcBtlIPrxQjBCN6WYk9jYnKG9OEs9hWoxI5pQr3/s2787/lions%20gate%20bridge.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Getting from YVR Vancouver airport to downtown cruise terminal" border="0" data-original-height="2787" data-original-width="2787" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0Ut73naF4-j1kDMizKDf0HtzE6vVRa83ngNLHvSwpEo7FUjCwgHs3uHwaFQGl8GI1WGHnd1jquaIP1uF77pruizz7amxaEA_WjlvcMFS2FaHAp1bA1rwR6ePcFcy8VkAhTCi-kAcDSdQ_wufSGcBtlIPrxQjBCN6WYk9jYnKG9OEs9hWoxI5pQr3/w640-h640/lions%20gate%20bridge.jpg" title="Here's the view of the Lions Gate Bridge, with Stanley Park to the left, that you'll enjoy as your cruise ship departs Vancouver. Your cruise has finally begun!" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's the view of the Lions Gate Bridge, with Stanley Park to the left, <br />that you'll enjoy as your cruise ship departs Vancouver. Your cruise has finally begun!</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">RIDE SHARE</span></h2><p><b>Providers: </b>Lyft, Uber and KABU are authorized providers of ride app services at YVR Vancouver.</p><p><b>Pick-up: </b>There are three pick-up areas: International Arrivals Level 2, Domestic Arrivals Level 2, and South Terminal, which is for regional airlines. </p><p><b>Drop-off: </b>There is no designated area for people who are getting dropped off at YVR via ride share, same as with public and taxi drop-offs. Drivers can simply unload at permitted areas at the curb on Level 3.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">TAXIS</span></h2><p><b>YVR airport to Canada Place cruise terminal: </b>The YVR site says that effective April 2022, a taxi ride from YVR to Waterfront Station will cost a flat rate of $38. <a href="https://www.yvr.ca/en/passengers/transportation/taxis" target="_blank">See the full price/zone map here</a>. Taxis are available at taxi stands located on Level 2 of the domestic and international arrivals area at YVR. Zone fares apply from YVR to specified zones. </p><p><b>Canada Place cruise terminal to YVR airport:</b> Remember that it is NOT a flat rate for taxis travelling from the cruise terminal to YVR airport; metered rates are in effect for trips TO the airport.</p><p>It's a good idea to double-check all fares with the taxi driver before your ride begins. That way, there will be no surprises.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">SHUTTLE SERVICE</span></h2><p>Courtesy shuttle pick-up and drop-off areas are located outside of Departures Level 3 international terminal near the transborder check-in area, as well as outside the Departures Level 3 domestic terminal. Request a hotel shuttle bus with the direct dial phones located on Departures Level 3 of both the international and domestic terminals.</p><p>According to the YVR website, the hotels listed below offer a shuttle service; however it's important to note these hotels are all in Richmond, where the airport is located. They are NOT in Vancouver. If you're planning to stay at one of these hotels, call first to confirm shuttle times as Covid may have affected availability.</p><p>Coast Vancouver Airport Hotel (604-263-1555)</p><p>Days Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Airport (604-207-8000)</p><p>Hilton Vancouver Airport (604-273-6336)</p><p>Pacific Gateway Hotel Vancouver Airport (866-382-3474)</p><p>Quality Hotel Vancouver Airport South (604-244-3051)</p><p>Radisson Hotel Vancouver Airport (604-276-8181)</p><p>Sandman Hotel Vancouver Airport (604-303-8888)</p><p>Sheraton Vancouver Airport (604-273-7878)</p><p>Travelodge Hotel by Wyndham Vancouver Airport (604-332-8945)</p><p>Vancouver Airport Marriott (604-276-2112)</p><p>Westin Wall Centre Vancouver Airport (604-303-6565)</p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span>To see a list of all the modes of transport from YVR airport to downtown Vancouver including bus transit and private car rental, <a href="https://www.yvr.ca/en/passengers/transportation/public-transportation" target="_blank">click here</a>. <br /><br /></span></h4><div><h4>>> Have a question? Post it in the comments and I'll do my best to find the answer.</h4><h4><br /></h4><h3><span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/04/best-things-to-do-in-Vancouver-before-or-after-Alaska-cruise.html" target="_blank">Best things to do in Vancouver before or after your cruise</a><br /></span></span></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-hotels-in-vancouver-canada-near-the-cruise-ship-terminal-dock.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Best hotels in downtown Vancouver near the cruise ship dock</a><br /></span><span>MORE:</span><span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2022/12/best-tips-for-new-cruisers.html" style="font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">10 things to know if you're a new cruiser</a><br /></span><span>MORE:</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/how-to-get-from-yvr-airport-to-vancouver-cruise-ship-terminal.html" target="_blank">See a list of hotels in Richmond near the airport</a></span></h3><h4><br /></h4><h4><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><h4><div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></p></div><p><br /></p></h4><h4><br /></h4><h4><p><b><br /></b></p><p><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></p></h4></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Vancouver, Canada49.2827291 -123.120737520.972495263821152 -158.27698750000002 77.59296293617885 -87.9644875tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-71167426528337401072023-03-09T14:22:00.019-08:002023-03-25T19:54:50.652-07:00Top things to see and do in Florence, Italy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhi4nH6aPvupk8YvQay2WzKEGBOCkJq7nwfpcjTOQWGBVg1exiR9CQZJ9xDDIBfNgFA3yXS1UDDpwTitlktGyFT-nXwR74TcKbOzEqqJUsdaKewRvvWMDM8F5QUgL4oPlFEvgCURZjtH_-eyCnunmtONZNED60PABWE0TFtUIgBfpGpMMID-bGkH2D/s3264/duomo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Florence view of Duomo cathedral from the Campanile or bell tower" border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhi4nH6aPvupk8YvQay2WzKEGBOCkJq7nwfpcjTOQWGBVg1exiR9CQZJ9xDDIBfNgFA3yXS1UDDpwTitlktGyFT-nXwR74TcKbOzEqqJUsdaKewRvvWMDM8F5QUgL4oPlFEvgCURZjtH_-eyCnunmtONZNED60PABWE0TFtUIgBfpGpMMID-bGkH2D/w640-h480/duomo.jpg" title="The best views of the Florence Cathedral are from Giotto's Campanile or bell tower" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ah, Florence. You have to visit this city in the Tuscany region of Italy to understand why it’s on so many people’s bucket lists.<span><a name='more'></a></span></h3>Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is steeped in history from the stunning architecture to the countless works of art in its numerous museums. I mean, it's the home of the Renaissance! If you're a history and art buff, you'll be in heaven here. But even if you're not, the sheer beauty of the city is enough to take your breath away. <p></p><p>For me, the highlight was when I visited the Gallerie dell'Accademia, home of Michelangelo's David. I can still remember the goosebumps I got seeing this work of utter perfection for the first time. Isn't it incredible that Michelangelo was only 26 when he sculpted this masterpiece?</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSnwct-WdVZA9EMYNxO07GkDTjpzMZGn5BLaLoTfszWdfOel6Bow4Qdx45nbkTsEJUHio_l5rpQspsmuMEERqDJ8woriFS2PPdaKNko-u3Lm7wnvM4iD2-e9tmMetk74nPQ5SJNohvtL7oV2GDtzNjqpodKiSl_13XdZUHJVs-GSDnufGx0bfkMD4/s2751/David.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Michelangelo's David in Florence Italy at Gallerie dell'Accademia" border="0" data-original-height="2751" data-original-width="2063" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSnwct-WdVZA9EMYNxO07GkDTjpzMZGn5BLaLoTfszWdfOel6Bow4Qdx45nbkTsEJUHio_l5rpQspsmuMEERqDJ8woriFS2PPdaKNko-u3Lm7wnvM4iD2-e9tmMetk74nPQ5SJNohvtL7oV2GDtzNjqpodKiSl_13XdZUHJVs-GSDnufGx0bfkMD4/w480-h640/David.jpg" title="Michelangelo's David is in Florence Italy, one of the most famous sculptures in the world" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>I really wanted to see Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man drawing, which is also housed at the Accademia. It's considered the first intersection of art and science, and one of the finest embodiments of the Renaissance. Unfortunately the drawing is rarely on display, including when I visited, because of its sensitivity to light. </p><p>The other hugely famous gallery is the Uffizi, home to some of the most famous works of art in the world. Unlike at the Gallerie dell'Accademia, which IMO relies on David for its "wow" factor, there's a wealth of noteworthy art at the Uffizi. You could easily spend a full day here to appreciate the sheer number of masterpieces on display.</p><p>From the Uffizi, it's just a quick walk to the Ponte Vecchio, the ancient bridge that's lined with shops selling everything from jewelry to souvenirs. The history of the 14th-century bridge is so impressive but to be honest, I find the shops a bit overwhelming. Go for the lore as well as the views of the Arno River and the city, which are staggeringly beautiful.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpTh2aEqij5V7i9HpkzyBg2YUbLfgTneCDIAeiYCYviPuxSr5soqPTLqiiK5gBJpRMt9Otk7xMzOb-k9jKQvPlDEN8RDR3WH8bN30Mri3zEAAyYDFmOkPRS2ZD9zGldB0o8x0M8Jn2ip6Dg8f5PtSn4-eTnwY2vQjsWFADyripuXbKBoGeW_jAVIp/s5581/Ponte%20Vecchio.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy over the Arno River" border="0" data-original-height="3660" data-original-width="5581" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpTh2aEqij5V7i9HpkzyBg2YUbLfgTneCDIAeiYCYviPuxSr5soqPTLqiiK5gBJpRMt9Otk7xMzOb-k9jKQvPlDEN8RDR3WH8bN30Mri3zEAAyYDFmOkPRS2ZD9zGldB0o8x0M8Jn2ip6Dg8f5PtSn4-eTnwY2vQjsWFADyripuXbKBoGeW_jAVIp/w640-h420/Ponte%20Vecchio.jpg" title="Ponte Vecchio in Florence Italy is an iconic bridge, one of the most famous in the world." width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p>You'll have to visit the Florence Cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo, of course. The impressive dome dominates the city skyline, and the interior is stunning. If you climb to the top of the dome you'll find a fabulous view of the city. But for an even more sweeping and spectacular view of the city, climb Giotto's Campanile. It's 414 steps to the top of the bell tower and there are landings every so often so you can take a rest. I'm in fairly good shape and I needed these breaks!</p><p>Another must-see is the Basilica di Santa Croce, a beautiful church that's the final resting place of some of Italy's most famous artists and writers including Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Dante. The architecture and intricate frescoes make it a must-visit for anyone who loves art and history.</p><p>The square in front of the basilica is also a sight to behold. Restaurants line both sides and music can often be heard from street musicians. Sometimes there's a farmers' market here. My Airbnb was located on this square and every time I looked out the window at this surreal setting, I had to pinch myself.</p><p>For that iconic Instagram shot, Piazzale Michelangelo is the place to go. Drive, walk or take the bus to get that truly stupendous lookout view over the city of Florence. </p><p>For a break from the museums and churches I visited San Lorenzo Market, which is just steps from the main train station. There are actually two parts to this market: Mercato Centrale, the indoor section that's filled with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and meats. There is also the outdoor area that surrounds the Mercato Centrale building; this part features a huge variety of leather products and clothing for sale ... danger, danger!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkUEUlB2Y30_9qH0e1-zldt9MxuOLe6ymTsSIxsf8UecVzIUjNJGEiPLK-Jj16e8f9Yym7CbtGh64BQHU1R-qxVC7WTtA7276NxqL9tCrofnRi2s0A3oOniQUFJmmJd8vrZypa5BzVVuYp65kfhRa0dyJcA41A2iali9nVtF_ndWDfxRniDKxPiW0/s5680/Florence%20Italy.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Charming Florence Italy with the Cathedral Duomo." border="0" data-original-height="5680" data-original-width="3787" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirkUEUlB2Y30_9qH0e1-zldt9MxuOLe6ymTsSIxsf8UecVzIUjNJGEiPLK-Jj16e8f9Yym7CbtGh64BQHU1R-qxVC7WTtA7276NxqL9tCrofnRi2s0A3oOniQUFJmmJd8vrZypa5BzVVuYp65kfhRa0dyJcA41A2iali9nVtF_ndWDfxRniDKxPiW0/w426-h640/Florence%20Italy.jpg" title="Florence Italy, with the Cathedral in the background, has a special magic." width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Florence is also known for its cuisine, and you'll find no shortage of amazing restaurants and cafes. Try the local specialties like ribollita, a hearty Tuscan soup, and bistecca alla fiorentina, a steak meal that's cooked to perfection with just rosemary, sage, salt, pepper and oil. The city is also home to some of the best gelaterias in the world.</p><p>From the winding streets to the grand architecture to the friendly locals, Florence has a truly magical quality. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, foodie or just someone who appreciates beauty, there's something for you. </p><p>So book your ticket, pack your bags and get ready to fall in love.</p><p><br /></p><h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></h4><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><b>PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG<br />Florence street scene photo by Heidi Kaden<br />Ponte Vecchio photo by Ansgar scheffold<br /></b><p><b><br /></b></p><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Florence, Italy43.7695604 11.255813618.529249743860817 -23.9004364 69.00987105613919 46.412063599999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-52291301251262481812023-03-07T20:29:00.033-08:002024-01-16T08:03:17.345-08:00Where can I take Insta pictures in New York?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_2a1nkFe3lzP0ZmhBjv0Q-AyfRx_NIi3F95pKjMkYTbEu5x9rxigQvN-Iv03ytDHMYFuM6SEBEUHTNcIzkhAXk-jhjL7Z2hvGc7NFED4qjRdAG3pOxt1D-cAeUxdT-PL8SW7JQgcGM5jPCdfzPbzTS5ORyJFBjmGCrm8w3JNH6slihTFFRYjh0lzG/s3229/vessel%20hudson%20yards.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tourists walk past the popular Vessel in New York." border="0" data-original-height="3229" data-original-width="2931" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_2a1nkFe3lzP0ZmhBjv0Q-AyfRx_NIi3F95pKjMkYTbEu5x9rxigQvN-Iv03ytDHMYFuM6SEBEUHTNcIzkhAXk-jhjL7Z2hvGc7NFED4qjRdAG3pOxt1D-cAeUxdT-PL8SW7JQgcGM5jPCdfzPbzTS5ORyJFBjmGCrm8w3JNH6slihTFFRYjh0lzG/w580-h640/vessel%20hudson%20yards.jpg" title="Vessel in New York is an Instagram hotspot" width="580" /></a></div><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">It’s tough to think of a city that’s more Instagram-worthy than New York. Looking for the best photo spots? Keep reading.<span><a name='more'></a></span></h3>Speaking of Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">check out mine</a> for more travel inspiration. And save this list for your next visit to New York! No. 1-8 are free; No. 9 & 10 need a ticket.<div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkW7HwYvP_bvv_FUgddjoeS1a5X4YCMuDvnKg5fNlNlSLE95po5GGHX6UsznSLj3mYLsC1CHuFfZTINaRsnUgxUEG9Wa8_UnTk0nuoNN4g2eCSztUDDBykHXTvZcpTzMIeKaD9Q7qXxFl2gl3rmBPcu-c5QQmi5izZ9_ZAuMENejE8VKmiP9G8shU/s3251/oculus.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Oculus in New York is a transit hub and shopping centre." border="0" data-original-height="3251" data-original-width="2601" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKkW7HwYvP_bvv_FUgddjoeS1a5X4YCMuDvnKg5fNlNlSLE95po5GGHX6UsznSLj3mYLsC1CHuFfZTINaRsnUgxUEG9Wa8_UnTk0nuoNN4g2eCSztUDDBykHXTvZcpTzMIeKaD9Q7qXxFl2gl3rmBPcu-c5QQmi5izZ9_ZAuMENejE8VKmiP9G8shU/w512-h640/oculus.jpg" title="Oculus in New York, made for Instagram" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>1. <a href="https://www.officialworldtradecenter.com/en/local/learn-about-wtc/oculus-transportation-hub.html" target="_blank">Oculus</a> transit hub and shopping centre.</h4></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFfRt84Cqe5OG3orjm1gAPwyHp7o6vJISwYTM7SOPBLaA_BH4uRovN_mBoLGEc5pv4ED28CGpfTZvkUyE1WyGl4_usHl7OHcxRpIoMj6hRYjzDN3_j9HgGoOP3qDE6PCBGiDS0ChqhArmqDeOvGpBnFjvZCILEZu_1ZhP6jZlAWPgLWM9r2PVbMxC/s3407/high%20line.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Tourists walk on the High Line in New York as luxury condos line the sides of the park." border="0" data-original-height="3407" data-original-width="2726" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFfRt84Cqe5OG3orjm1gAPwyHp7o6vJISwYTM7SOPBLaA_BH4uRovN_mBoLGEc5pv4ED28CGpfTZvkUyE1WyGl4_usHl7OHcxRpIoMj6hRYjzDN3_j9HgGoOP3qDE6PCBGiDS0ChqhArmqDeOvGpBnFjvZCILEZu_1ZhP6jZlAWPgLWM9r2PVbMxC/w512-h640/high%20line.jpg" title="Instagram photos in New York should include the High Line" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>2. <a href="https://www.thehighline.org/" target="_blank">High Line</a> elevated park</h4></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbz8TdZhYqLRfkpt3tLN__H5IWYYjGhUz4xcry8yJVrHnK7pWOlOecnLqcIacrC2DeMROLD3nihZIQNH4GQkM0uqufqWeF3GEfKhIcie5tC9qPx8W7LTkkSAv_Om7JDpBp0WKe05nxUmGzkGyIHJTPVxgqL-UAEuGM7NBMsIdAwUEXJTKJbT8q6CM/s2567/brooklyn%20bridge%20park.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Brooklyn Bridge as seen from Brooklyn Bridge Park" border="0" data-original-height="2567" data-original-width="2118" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGbz8TdZhYqLRfkpt3tLN__H5IWYYjGhUz4xcry8yJVrHnK7pWOlOecnLqcIacrC2DeMROLD3nihZIQNH4GQkM0uqufqWeF3GEfKhIcie5tC9qPx8W7LTkkSAv_Om7JDpBp0WKe05nxUmGzkGyIHJTPVxgqL-UAEuGM7NBMsIdAwUEXJTKJbT8q6CM/w528-h640/brooklyn%20bridge%20park.jpg" title="Instagram New York photos should include the Brooklyn Bridge" width="528" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>3. Brooklyn Bridge, seen from <a href="https://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/" target="_blank">Brooklyn Bridge Park</a></h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuL3fbRYDpl8YEwWCadIWN4Cl-0w9aWqHDX37ObYENcgCjxazp1NeLIcuJJ7XCcC__J-W1_tKtyoIXoaIKQvVu8C6EcZ3y_je00ev4zCMD7CupusBO1dTlm-FpWDalMgp8OOTyUrpHjzchonT61FVU1h-BYA6tXrHzMNwVYzjr4nYIfB1y4BL6MenN/s3385/central%20park.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Central Park is stunning in every season." border="0" data-original-height="3385" data-original-width="2708" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuL3fbRYDpl8YEwWCadIWN4Cl-0w9aWqHDX37ObYENcgCjxazp1NeLIcuJJ7XCcC__J-W1_tKtyoIXoaIKQvVu8C6EcZ3y_je00ev4zCMD7CupusBO1dTlm-FpWDalMgp8OOTyUrpHjzchonT61FVU1h-BYA6tXrHzMNwVYzjr4nYIfB1y4BL6MenN/w512-h640/central%20park.jpg" title="Instagram New York photos should include Central Park" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>4. <a href="https://www.centralpark.com/" target="_blank">Central Park</a></h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOU8Fef7imqRdbsahSPCxO0VNcGh4pKSrqff902INi1b6IHrDpAJnJgRi854UZo8ODOwHUMCkplNeKVFAs9sQvGJL_Bw1OXxsD4xFFcSPsDOAwiz84M8AZBMWv3VlX0fcgUwO3lADxpVV_xhUu6ctoKawfeHVMurJm3GuPI0XGFF5gXw4bvfUbWrrF/s2507/dumbo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="DUMBO is one of the best Instagram photo spot" border="0" data-original-height="2507" data-original-width="2006" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOU8Fef7imqRdbsahSPCxO0VNcGh4pKSrqff902INi1b6IHrDpAJnJgRi854UZo8ODOwHUMCkplNeKVFAs9sQvGJL_Bw1OXxsD4xFFcSPsDOAwiz84M8AZBMWv3VlX0fcgUwO3lADxpVV_xhUu6ctoKawfeHVMurJm3GuPI0XGFF5gXw4bvfUbWrrF/w512-h640/dumbo.jpg" title="Instagram New York photos should include DUMBO" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>5. <a href="https://www.nycgo.com/boroughs-neighborhoods/brooklyn/dumbo/" target="_blank">DUMBO</a> shopping and dining area</h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYg5xH17bHK1fRNBA1hRRn0e-YIh6n9i3CrKB4gNi-qaSjO5gQWUgFpGSnetXJpMAX9VgD84H0Vp-k4XlLMxCb6EbFPH1kXqAgzxQHCfXrqADtSEU6qufjQ8ZeqnzyRXX-PYq1y4TFE33ZFgTJIp2fuPrU3lXYVvdXiJ2Ghl993-hUaDl3cozT4Nu/s3663/rockefeller%20centre.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Instagram New York, the best photo spots" border="0" data-original-height="3663" data-original-width="2931" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYg5xH17bHK1fRNBA1hRRn0e-YIh6n9i3CrKB4gNi-qaSjO5gQWUgFpGSnetXJpMAX9VgD84H0Vp-k4XlLMxCb6EbFPH1kXqAgzxQHCfXrqADtSEU6qufjQ8ZeqnzyRXX-PYq1y4TFE33ZFgTJIp2fuPrU3lXYVvdXiJ2Ghl993-hUaDl3cozT4Nu/w512-h640/rockefeller%20centre.jpg" title="Instagram New York photos should include Rockefeller Center" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>6. <a href="https://www.rockefellercenter.com/" target="_blank">Rockefeller Center</a> (don't miss Top of the Rock)</h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p0eRs7TRGzujM8q0YdbpGZS6wJtRAmx1w378Spn1DGLnvkZWxVq7F6KE7sQxxANzwgQmKvrg-1cM0qCMBlEEcHJgHjWn5TcGIpEXFJ945EX3FGDYepPd2C4mzlQ70Smp_MkQtSOtmv4xISVjisOSH0Io-nlaLO66zhlyg_zU7-_ggjf8TE7beqN4/s1035/times%20square.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Instagram New York, the best photo spots includes Times Square" border="0" data-original-height="1035" data-original-width="828" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p0eRs7TRGzujM8q0YdbpGZS6wJtRAmx1w378Spn1DGLnvkZWxVq7F6KE7sQxxANzwgQmKvrg-1cM0qCMBlEEcHJgHjWn5TcGIpEXFJ945EX3FGDYepPd2C4mzlQ70Smp_MkQtSOtmv4xISVjisOSH0Io-nlaLO66zhlyg_zU7-_ggjf8TE7beqN4/w512-h640/times%20square.jpg" title="Instagram New York photos should include Times Square" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>7. <a href="https://www.timessquarenyc.org/" target="_blank">Times Square</a></h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBODwOaGhDMQQ4lzzEXamSlIVP4UbsTBRoYcwMoXEYS7Ufgcc_0BSCLYPqp2DA8aAWtlUMsepF6ih8QsuqPtSB5kPHX6TYB-zX5Cs0tG_SVpoMSxcu-wN5nS_iNJEqxzN7Hb4h2rouymjt2C7MPia3CRrkyjl-DSD3pYxdFakOb43paCRa2yGRMcuo/s4032/vessel.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Instagram New York best photos should include Vessel" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBODwOaGhDMQQ4lzzEXamSlIVP4UbsTBRoYcwMoXEYS7Ufgcc_0BSCLYPqp2DA8aAWtlUMsepF6ih8QsuqPtSB5kPHX6TYB-zX5Cs0tG_SVpoMSxcu-wN5nS_iNJEqxzN7Hb4h2rouymjt2C7MPia3CRrkyjl-DSD3pYxdFakOb43paCRa2yGRMcuo/w360-h640/vessel.jpg" title="Instagram New York, the best photos spots includes Vessel" width="360" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>8. <a href="https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/vessel" target="_blank">Vessel</a> at Hudson Yards</h4><div><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmhkZYTtEMEld8H6sJeu0uvbUq_33TGnCP-P08DeY4Z-22Dcp8G6vTMNxSAL4fk-2kzOEys88sIXmMvmc8Dg9LH_IamJM3UTrWFpUbO_vOJJx113HkXj9NI2P6ZHXyfgRrXg1REey46oggJJri_ni-2ugL3QmG7ohc9mP1teM17vPSs_F5x7HtXli/s2895/Summit%20one%20vanderbilt.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Instagram New York photo spots at Summit One Vanderbilt" border="0" data-original-height="2895" data-original-width="2317" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmhkZYTtEMEld8H6sJeu0uvbUq_33TGnCP-P08DeY4Z-22Dcp8G6vTMNxSAL4fk-2kzOEys88sIXmMvmc8Dg9LH_IamJM3UTrWFpUbO_vOJJx113HkXj9NI2P6ZHXyfgRrXg1REey46oggJJri_ni-2ugL3QmG7ohc9mP1teM17vPSs_F5x7HtXli/w512-h640/Summit%20one%20vanderbilt.jpg" title="Instagram New York best photo spots includes Summit One Vanderbilt" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>9. <a href="https://summitov.com/" target="_blank">Summit One Vanderbilt</a> (view from the lower floor)</h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg602WAVWgKl6eRA4dHg6NkYl03W9Pl9qY2HIqoNrOz7BIXaDtqhltZNr7tVhy71q_wXe1zFCvGi7JzCeXqNRqLekajAoC5lookrsxBt0e-em0CMvdKCo8Em8ycbSksYwZASp57fomJFLPCAq-KujJcHP98RQajTGeuVHNL86vBA1n4GXHMFp3UPdZb/s3705/Edge%20nyc.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Instagram New York photos should include Edge NYC" border="0" data-original-height="3705" data-original-width="2964" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg602WAVWgKl6eRA4dHg6NkYl03W9Pl9qY2HIqoNrOz7BIXaDtqhltZNr7tVhy71q_wXe1zFCvGi7JzCeXqNRqLekajAoC5lookrsxBt0e-em0CMvdKCo8Em8ycbSksYwZASp57fomJFLPCAq-KujJcHP98RQajTGeuVHNL86vBA1n4GXHMFp3UPdZb/w512-h640/Edge%20nyc.jpg" title="Instagram New York best photos spots includes Edge NYC" width="512" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h4>10. <a href="https://www.edgenyc.com/en" target="_blank">Edge NYC</a></h4></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Do you have a question about one of these New York Instagram photo sights? Leave a comment.</h4><div><br /></div><div><h2><span>More: <a href="https://www.juanitang.com/2023/03/best-instagram-photo-spots-in-banff.html" target="_blank">Best Instagram photo spots in Banff</a></span></h2><div><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></div></div><div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG<br /></b></p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0New York40.7127753 -74.005972812.402541463821152 -109.1622228 69.023009136178842 -38.849722799999995tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4949722145195289739.post-84051326781266323022023-02-27T18:39:00.014-08:002023-03-28T14:01:40.516-07:00How to survive those long-haul flights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDAPbG7TTvtoWHS5xUVVDcpT3hKeU1-KAU-C_T5c8RIsThZP_vqvH_Kiy_mHkj1kUjV5YlyGQx1un01fh_XXgmZDpaYke__C9uLMYUiJKhcTqtMOUtQLLLRyYiXS5saXhrXecO_mLGiEDD7feEruEyE6lDEmkOpRAI91NzKBopJx46Vaar6fCvyEI/s4032/flight.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Strategies for long flights: How to cope" border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDAPbG7TTvtoWHS5xUVVDcpT3hKeU1-KAU-C_T5c8RIsThZP_vqvH_Kiy_mHkj1kUjV5YlyGQx1un01fh_XXgmZDpaYke__C9uLMYUiJKhcTqtMOUtQLLLRyYiXS5saXhrXecO_mLGiEDD7feEruEyE6lDEmkOpRAI91NzKBopJx46Vaar6fCvyEI/w480-h640/flight.jpg" title="Long flights don't have to be horrible. Here's how you can make things easier." width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Long-haul flights can be incredibly difficult on the body due to the prolonged sitting and exposure to dry cabin air. <span><a name='more'></a></span></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span></span></h3><p>And the older you are, the more you will feel this. (A friend told me so! 😅) The lack of movement and change in air pressure can even lead to issues such as deep vein thrombosis. </p><p>To make things easier on ourselves, we need to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine — these dehydrate you and disrupt sleep patterns. It's also a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothing.</p><p>Here are some other things travellers can do to ameliorate the effects of flying:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Avoid heavy meals. They can make you feel sluggish and increase the risk of bloating and indigestion. Instead, choose foods that are high in protein, and opt for fruits and vegetables.</li><li>Avoid salty and spicy foods, which can cause dehydration and worsen jet lag symptoms.</li><li>Eat at the right time. Try to eat according to the local time at your destination to help reduce jet lag.</li><li>Pack your own snacks. Bring your own healthy snacks such as nuts, fruits or veggies. Consider taking a probiotic, which can can help support your gut health during travel.</li><li>Take ginger or peppermint. Ginger or peppermint tea, for example, can help with digestion and settling one's stomach.</li><li>Take short breaks. Stand up and stretch your legs, arms and back. Use compression stockings to help prevent deep vein thrombosis.</li><li>Move your seat to a comfortable position and use a travel pillow for added support. Also, did you know that the sides of the headrest bend up, so you can lean your head against it?</li><li>Help yourself to sleep. Bring a sleep mask and earplugs to block out light and noise.</li><li>Moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and to prevent dryness caused by the cabin air. Use a nasal spray to keep nasal passages moist and to prevent dryness and discomfort.<br /></li></ul>Bon voyage!<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><p><b>Find more travel inspiration on my Instagram, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juanitang/" target="_blank">@JuanitaNg</a>.</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>ALL PHOTOS ©JUANITA NG</b></p><div><b><br /></b></div><p><br /></p><div><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0