The month of October has been designated American Cheese Month, a celebration of North America’s delicious and diverse cheeses, and the farmers, cheese makers, retails, cheesemongers, and chefs who bring them to our tables.  And last month I had a little preview of how to celebrate cheese month with a visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory on the Oregon Coast.

The climate in Tillamook is well suited for dairy farming, with a history dating back to the mid-1800s.  By the end of that century, cheese maker Peter McIntosh created a cheddar cheese recipe that is still used today.  Over the years, dairy-related production boomed, and in 1909 a farming co-op was established that became Tillamook.  It’s still a co-op today, owned by the dairy farmers and families who start the whole process.  Well, there are the cows to credit, too!

It seems that no drive down the Oregon Coast is complete without a stop off at the Tillamook Cheese Factory.  The Cheese Factory features self-guided tours and interactive exhibits that help you learn how cheese is made, starting with the cow and ending with the tasting.  And the shopping.

While the exhibits are interesting, and you can learn a lot, the real action is seen through the observation windows.  That’s where you get a peek into what’s involved in the packing of the 167,000 pounds of cheese turned out every single day.  It reminded me of the childhood game of Mousetrap with its intricate labyrinth of conveyors, processors, and people.  Just try following it all with your eyes, watching the 40 pound blocks of cheese get cut into proper sizes, weighed, adjusted, wrapped, sealed, and shipped off for sale.  It’s interesting, amazing, and in a strange way a little mesmerizing.

Of course, the tour wouldn’t be complete with some taste testing, and the Cheese Factory doesn’t disappoint.  You’ll have a chance to sample some cheese curds (I’ve always called them squeaky cheese), and decide if you like Pepper Jack better than Garlic White Cheddar.  Or decide if you prefer extra sharp over sharp, or Colby Jack over Smoked Medium Cheddar.  Confession – I tasted most of them, and really liked trying some of the ones not available in my markets at home.  The various flavors of white cheddar are my current favorites.  If you find something you love you can buy it in the Tillamook Cheese Shop, which carries every Tillamook product made.  And note, that tasty and fun squeaky cheese is only available here.

But wait – it’s not just about tasting the cheese!  There’s the fudge counter and the ice cream counter.  Yummmmmm!

I’m familiar with Tillamook ice cream, it’s available at my local market, but here you’ll find all 38 flavors.  Let the sampling begin!

Grandma’s Cake Batter was a little too sweet for me and I thought Sticky Bun was tasty, but not satisfying.  It was a BIG HIT with the rest of the group, though.  I favored Mountain Huckleberry over Marionberry Pie, although you wouldn’t go wrong with either, and  Cookie Dough (one of my all time favorites) over Banana Split.  There were flavors here that I’d never heard of, Oregon Black Cherry and Root Beer Float, as well as some classics like Orange Sherbet and Rocky Road.  And in a head to head tasting of vanilla flavors, Vanilla Bean unanimously won out over Old Fashioned Vanilla and French Vanilla.   I’d bet you’ll be hard pressed to find a favorite ice cream at the counter here, but I know you’ll have a great time trying!  (NOTE:  There is a modest charge for ice cream.)

To keep up on all sorts of cheesy happenings, you can follow Tillamook on Twitter, become a Tillamook Facebook fan, or check out their blog Loaf Life.

Location:  4175 Highway 101 North, Tillamook, Oregon

Hours:  8 am – 6 pm, with extended hours to 8 pm mid-June through Labor Day

Admission:  FREE.  Samples are available for tasting.  There is a small charge for ice cream.

Photo credits:  author’s collection

NOTE:  My visit to the Tillamook Cheese Factory was a stop on a trip sponsored by the Central Oregon Visitors Association, Oregon Coast Visitors Association, Travel Oregon, and Evergreen Escapes.  A special thanks to the Tillamook Cheese Factory for their hospitality during the visit.

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We’ve been featuring Central and South America over on The Travelers Way this month, and it’s gotten me thinking about the warm weather south of the border.  I’ve enjoyed my visits to Central and South America and count Costa Rica, Panama, and Cartagena, Columbia as some of my most memorable trips.

But I know that language differences, combined with a different culture, cuisine, and lifestyle, can make Central and South America a bit intimidating to travelers.  If you can’t go it alone, don’t write off the destination, just find a tour that takes care of all the details while still leaving you independent enough to enjoy what you want to see and do.

For some time now I’ve been following information about tours offered by Friendly Planet Travel.  While I have not taken one of their tours. . . yet. . . I’ve been impressed with the high quality, affordable vacation packages they offer to some of the most exotic destinations around the world.  Some destinations that you might think aren’t affordable may be well within your budget with these tours.

Friendly Planet Travel is offering three new tours to South America that give you an opportunity to see the best of the sites, sample some great food, and enjoy an exotic part of the world.  Take a look at what’s in store and see if any might be just what you’re interested in.

Marvelous Rio de Janeiro – With the famous Christ the Redeemer statue over looking the city from atop Corcovado Mountain, Rio embraces visitors with its joyous culture.  This tour includes a visit to Corcovado, a tour of Rio, and an excursion to the Hippie Fair and Craft Market in Ipanema.  Optional tours are available, including a jeep tour of the Tijuca Forest, the largest urban forest in the world, and a tour of Sugarloaf Mountain.  While you’re in Rio, be sure to check out a churrasco, a traditional all-you-can-eat Brazilian barbecue.  Seven day tours start at $1,399 per person, double occupancy, and include round trip air far from Miami to Rio, arrival and departure transfers, guided touring, accommodations in a first class hotel, and daily breakfast.

Spectacular Rio & Iguazu Falls – This tours continues from where the previous one left off.  From Rio, this tour heads to Iguaza Falls, the world’s largest waterfall, that straddles the border of Brazil and Argentina.  The falls can be visited from both countries, and great debate goes on about which country’s view is the best.  Nine day tours start at $1,899 per person, double occupancy, and include round trip air far from Miami to Rio, arrival and departure transfers, guided touring, accommodations in a first class hotel, and daily breakfast.

Best of South America – If neither of the previous tours give you enough time in country,extend your stay with this tour that includes a visit to Buenos Aires, Argentina.  Often called the “Paris of the south,” you’ll have a chance to soak up the French influence on this South American city.  In addition to what the previous two tours include, this one also includes a tour of Buenos Aires. 11 day tours start at $2,599 per person, double occupancy, and include round trip air far from Miami to Rio, all land transportation and transfers, intra-South America flights, guided touring, accommodations in a first class hotel, and daily breakfast.

There are a few things that the tour price doesn’t include – taxes and security fees (approximately $95) and a required visa for Brazil ($160 from a consulate, approximately $250 from visa service agency).

If you’ve been nervous about visiting South America independently, these value-priced tours may be just what you’re looking for.  And if you price out the airfare, you’ll realize how really great these prices are.

OK now, who wants to go?

Photo credit:  bellman via wikimedia

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Travel to China is as exotic as it is intimidating for travelers intrigued by its blend of ancient and modern.  It’s the kind of place that even experienced travelers want a little helping hand on occasion, and for the not-quite-so-adventurous traveler it can be downright frightening to think of tackling it on your own.  For those situations where you might not be comfortable exploring on your own, a tour can be a perfect way to have a safety net for your travels.

Tour company Friendly Planet Travel, known for their very competitively priced tour packages that include round trip air, offers a new China option – the 10-day Exploration of China’s Delights. This China tour package includes visits to Beijing, Shanghai, Hanzhou, the Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace, with option add-on packages that will allow for a longer stay and a visit to the Giant Panda Research Center.  Friendly Planet keeps their prices affordable by providing all you need to see, a few extras, and then leaves it up to you whether you want to enjoy the rest of your time on your own or book additional excursions.

Here are the specifics about what’s included, what’s not, and what’s extra:

• Round trip flights from LAX via Air China, including fuel charges but not including taxes and fees (which may run an additional $90 per person)
• All intra-China flights and ground transportation
• Deluxe and first class hotels with private bath
• 11 meals (8 American buffet breakfasts, 3 lunches)
• Specified tours, and entrance fees
• Professional English-speaking tour director and local guides
• Full day excursion to Great Wall of China (optional Peking Duck Dinner and Kung Fu Show $53)
• Tour of Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace (option evening excursion to Gaobeidian Village and a visit to a school, plus the opportunity to join with a family in preparing and sharing the evening meal, $45 per person)
• Visit to Six Harmony Pagoda in Hangzhou, a tour of the area, and a visit to a tea plantation
• Other optional excursions include:  Tour of the Temple of Heaven and shopping tour of the Pearl Market ($65 per person); Huangpu River Cruise ($35 per person); tour to Suzhou, the city of gardens, and a boat ride on its canals ($85 per person)
• Optional 2-day add on to Chengdu and the Giant Panda Research Center is $699 per person, based on double occupancy (optional Baby Panda Holding experience $190 per person – and I can’t imagine being their and not taking advantage of this opportunity!)

You will also need a visa for China which will run approximately $170.  Friendly Planet will provide you will detailed instructions on how to obtain one.

If you’ve been wanting to visit China, but have been hesitant to do it on your own, these value-priced tours may be the combination of organized yet independent that you’re looking for.

Price:  $1,299, per person based on double occupancy, if booked by September 14th.  That price includes round trip airfare from Los Angeles (LAX).

Departures Dates:  Various, November 2011 – April 2012

NOTE:  Like all travel deal, there is plenty of fine print.  Read, ask questions, and get informed before you make a decision.

Photo credit:  Via flickr.  Richard Thomas (Great Wall); Matt Spurr (panda)

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In 1982 Stephen King published a simple little novella titled Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.  It was part of a collection of stories and was hailed as a masterpiece.  The novella was adapted for the big screen as The Shawshank Redemption and was a modest hit. . . at least until awards season rolled around when it received seven Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Picture. and catapulted into the stratosphere of top-watched movies.  Many people, myself included, had never heard of the novella until the movie came out, but in the years since it’s release in 1994 Shawshank has achieved nearly cult status.

The plot is a simple one:  Young banker (Andy Dufresne played by Tim Robbins) is convicted, perhaps wrongfully so, for the murder of his wife and her lover.  He is sentenced to two life sentences at Shawshank State Prison where is goes through the expected adjustment problems as he leaves his privileged status of upper middle class and becomes a prisoner.  Thanks to the friendship of an older and wiser inmate (Red played by Morgan Freeman) Andy survives prison and eventually puts his accounting skills to work doing tax returns for the guards and helping the warden (played by Bob Gunton) set up a money laundering scheme in exchange for favorable treatment.  Andy eventually “leaves” prison, as does Red, and the movie ends with the two friends eventually meeting up on the outside.

Andy's escape tunnel in The Shawshank Redemption

The movie was filmed in Richland County, Ohio, with most of the scenes set at the Ohio State Reformatory, and in an attempt to capitalize on the popularity of the movie the Mansfield & Richland County Convention & Visitors Bureau has launched The Shawshank Trail, a driving tour of 12 movie sites.  You can drive the whole trail, pick a few favorite sites, or start and stop wherever you’d like, and there’s a mobile app to help you navigate.   Here are a few of the stops you can make:

• Historic Ohio State Penitentiary – It was Shawshank in the movie, but for 94 years this castle-like structure was a working prison housing some of the toughest criminals around.  You can tour the cells and see the warden’s office, the hole in the wall that Andy dug and the tunnel that he crawled through.  You can tour the penitentiary.  (Note for movie fans:  Other movies filmed here include Air Force One, Tango & Cash, and Harry and Walter Go to New York.)
• Central Park in Downtown Mansfield – After Brooks (played by James Whitmore) is paroled he spends time sitting on the park bench hoping his pet crow will show up.  He never does.  Today the park is two acres spread with a gazebo, picnic area, fountain, and plenty of room to play.
• Pugh Cabin at Malabar Farm State Park – The is the site of the opening scene of the movie, where Andy is sitting in his car with a gun.  It’s actually a park with lovely walking trails, including Doris Duke Woods (named after the tobacco heiress).
• Huntington National Bank – In the movie it was Casco Bank in Portland, but this is the spot where Andy went to claim his assets and close accounts after leaving prison.  This is a real working bank.
• Wyandot County Courthouse – Andy was convicted and sentenced in this real life county courthouse.  Ask for a tour of the facility if you wish.

In addition to the Shawshank Trail sites, many business and hotels (not featured in the movie) offer menu items, packages, and other specialty items that celebrate the notoriety that the film has brought them.  There are also various Shawshank-related tours if you prefer to leave the driving to someone else.

I loved this movie and have it on my all time Top 10 list.  My favorite location was probably the warden’s office, most likely because so much happened there.  Are you a fan of the movie?  What’s your favorite location?

Photo credit:  Courtesy of Mansfield & Richland CVB

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If you want to experience a couple weeks in Europe, feeling like you’re being shown around by a good friend, then this new tour offering from Ipswich Tours may be just what you’re looking for.

The two-week tour will take you through Prague, Kraków, and Hungary, giving you a chance to see the remarkable sights of the countries while leaving the details of flight planning, reservations, transportation, and more, to someone else.  Here are a few of the highlights of what you can expect in each country:

• Czech Republic:  Spending time in Prague will give you a chance to explore the port towns within this fascinating city. We’ll have an opportunity to see is that the Prague Castle, home to check rulers for many centuries, along with St. peters Cathedral, the old Royal Palace, the Basilica of St. George, along with many other architecturally significant buildings. You’ll have time to stroll through gardens, delight in the winding streets, as well as time for little shopping. There will be plenty of time for self exploration in addition to group activities. And let’s not forget about the nightlife at the Prague is famous for. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to sample the local food, including a gourmet Czech cooking class, along with traditional music and other cultural activities. In addition to Prague, your time in the Czech Republic will also include a drive through the regions of Central and South Bohemia as you’re heading toward your next destination, the beautiful medieval village of Ceský Krumlov, another medieval city. This Sunday to explore here as well, before heading off to your next stop….
• Poland: after leaving the Czech republic is good for wellhead through Austria, and stop for lunch in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. You’ll have a bit of time to enjoy the Danube River, as well as a bit of the countryside before continuing on to Kraków. Once in Kraków you’ll enjoy a walking tour that hits the highlights of the old city, give you a glimpse into Poland’s history. On a more somber note, there will be an excursion to the Auschwitz death camp, with a guide who will take you through this very dark period of history. You’ll also have a chance to visit the ancient salt mines, some of the other city sites, and oh yes, let’s not forget the opportunity to taste all the mouth watering Polish cuisine. And then, before you know it, it will be time to head off to your next destination….
• Hungary: Your trip to Hungary will take you on a drive through the Slovakian mountains, eventually arriving in the picturesque town of Eger, located in the valley between the Mátra Mountains and the Bükk Range. This is wine country, and the baroque town also boasts 175 historic monuments, including a fabulous castle.  In Eger you’ll meet up with your Hungarian guide, Peter, who I had the pleasure of meeting nearly 2 years ago when we were both visiting Croatia. (With Peter’s assistance, our short time in Croatia was filled with a combination of great food and drink, a charming hotel, a chance to see the historical sites of the city, along with plenty of good conversation and local color.)  Peter will take the group to some wonderful and little known places in the area, including an opportunity to visit some wineries and to learn what makes Hungarian wine so popular – and tasty.  Try a dip in the thermal lake, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Balaton, and enjoy the food and drink of wine country  — and remember many of your stops along the way are going to include places where Peter is personal friends with the owners, guaranteeing you that extra special personal attention.  You’ll then head off to learn about Budapest (in photo above), divided into two by the Danube River.  Get your bearings about these two cities, and learned some of the fascinating history. One of the highlights of the stay in Budapest is a one-of-a-kind cooking class — the Grand Prix. This event will create teams that compete against one another to create traditional Hungarian dishes. Participants will be given money, a recipe written in Hungarian, and teams will then be sent out on a shopping quest to secure the necessary ingredients to make their dish.  Then it’s back to the kitchen for a fun and delicious cook off.

Tour dates: September 15-29, 2011

Price:  The price for this fully escorted tour is $5299 per person, based on double occupancy. This price includes round-trip air fare from Boston or New York (slightly higher from other cities), and ground transportation in an air-conditioned minibus; 13 nights in boutique style hotels with private bath (three nights in Prague, two nights in Cesky-Krumlov, one night in the Slovakian Tatras mountains, two nights in Kraków, one night in Eger, two nights in Heviz, and two nights in Budapest). Meals included are all breakfasts (13), three lunches, and 12 dinners. Also included is the Hungarian cooking class, a boat ride on Lake Balaton, winery tours and tastings in the Hungarian wine region, bathing in a thermal lake, and all tour guides, museum and monument entrance fees, tips, and taxes. That makes the quoted tour price pretty much all inclusive, with only your personal expenses not included, so you won’t get nickeled and dimed once you get there. If you are already in Europe, or plan to be there during this time, ask for a price quote without airfare.

Group size:  To ensure personal attention, as well as for the enjoyment of all, the group size is limited to no more than 16 participants.

Bonus: You’ll get to travel with my friend Peter. He’s a great guy and will show you things that you would otherwise miss.  It’s like traveling with a good friend who’s already been there and is eager to show you around.

Photo credits: Firestarlf via Wikimedia

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The USS Potomac was used by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt as his presidential yacht, and to this day it is affectionately referred to as the “floating White House.”  The ship was  a 165-foot Coast Guard cutter before it was commissioned by the US Navy in 1936 and put to its new purpose.

FDR hated to fly, preferring to travel by ship or train, and the USS Potomac was outfitted to accommodate his mobility issues.  It could cruise along at speeds of 10-13 knots, and FDR would often hold informal strategy meetings aboard, enjoying the privacy and seclusion the yacht provided.  Visiting dignitaries were entertained on the yacht, and at least one of FDR’s famed radio broadcasts originated from on board.  There were many “secret” meetings held aboard, only some of which have been made public, leaving us to speculate about all that went on aboard the ship.

The yacht was also used for recreational activities, at least up until the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Following the death of FDR, the Potomac went through a series of owners.  It was once owned by Elvis Presley! Eventually, though, she was used in more infamous endeavors, and was seized in 1980 as a front for drug smugglers.  Her hull was pierced one night and she sank — the once proud and majestic yacht had fallen.

After being re-floated by the Navy, the Potomac was sold to the Port of Oakland (for a mere $15,000) and a $5 million restoration campaign was launched.  It took a cooperative effort between organized labor, maritime corporations, and a bunch of dedicated volunteers, to finally complete the restoration.

The task complete, the yacht was berthed at Jack London Square, and opened to the public in 1995.  The Potomac is now a floating museum, with a nearby Visitor Center.  It has been declared a National Historic Landmark, and is a Coast Guard certified, fully seaworthy vessel.

Dockside tours of the Potomac are conducted on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 11 am – 3 pm.  The tour includes a 15-minute video, and then a 45-minute guided tour.  Tour prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (60+), and FREE for youth ages 12 and under.  Reservations are not required.

History cruises on board the Potomac are offered; Check the schedule for details.  After watching a video, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour cruise around the San Francisco Bay, learning about surrounding landmarks and the historical connection between the FDR presidency and the area.  You can choose a guide or self-guided tour on board.  Tickets prices are $45 for adults, $40 for seniors (60+), $25 for youth (ages 6-12), and FREE for children ages 6 and under.  You can purchase your tickets online.

Special event cruises are also offered on the Potomac, including Veterans’ Day Cruise, Valentine’s Day Cruise, Father’s Day cruise and more.  Offerings and prices vary, so check the schedule of special events for details and ticketing information.  These events sell out, so plan in advance.

The grandeur and 1940′s ambiance of the Potomac is perfect for special events, and it is available for private charters.  It’s been used for weddings, anniversary parties, reunions, and a variety of special events.

Location:  Jack London Square, 540 Water Street, in Oakland, California

Parking:  Available at the Washington Street Garage (between 2nd and Embarcadero Streets), one block from the Potomac.

Social Media: On Facebook.

Photo credit:  Wikimedia Commons

Oakland Vacations

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On my list of “travel experiences before I die,” a safari figures prominently.  It’s always seemed like one of those once-in-a-lifetime vacations.  Lately I’ve been committed to getting through a lot of experiences on my “bucket list” and the safari keeps moving up the list.

That’s part of the reason why I was so excited to read the 7th Edition of Africa’s Top Wildlife Countries, by Mark W. Nolting.  Of course, I LOVE to read travel books of all types, and I enjoy sharing them with all of you.  But this was more than just another travel book.  This was personal research!

First off, let’s answer the question that the title asks:  What are Africa’s top wildlife countries.  That would be:  Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.  Of lesser note:  Burundi, Congo, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland, Mauritius, and the Seychelles Islands.

Some of those were obvious choices to me.  I’d heard about safaris in Kenya, South Africa, and Tanzania, but in reading this book, I was going beyond the obvious, and discovering a lot more options that I had first imagined.

The guide opened with good, in depth, and practical information about Africa and planning a wildlife trip.  It explains a little bit about what to expect, does a little myth busting (you don’t have to stay in grass huts and sleep in the mud), talks about the environment and eco-tourism, and sets out some practical information about security, choosing accommodations, and selecting the best type of safari.  There’s even a helpful packing list.  This opening section provides a solid framework for what’s to follow, and it will help you narrow and shape what you want your wildlife experience to be.

With the basics under your belt, you’re ready to explore the continent.

The remainder of the book is organized by geographical sections of Africa,with the major wildlife sections first, then the lesser ones.  This geographic organization makes sense for someone familiar with the continent, but I found myself flipping around, back and forth, too frequently.  Alphabetical listings would have been much easier for me to use as I gradually became more re-acquainted with my African geography.

Entries for each country included the best time to visit, what wildlife you can expect to see, weather information, a list of the top wildlife reserves and other attractions, maps, hundreds of beautiful photos, accommodations of all types and classes, and tons of practical information and tips.  You’ll find details about photo safaris, mountain climbing, gorilla and chimp watching, bird watching, canoe safaris, diving, hot air balloon safaris, night game, horseback riding, family trips, elephant safaris, and more.

All the resources that you could need are included here, including simple things like money, shopping, health concerns, and travel, to more specialized information like Latin and scientific names of animals, and an extensive reading list.

The guide ends with a section called “Bush Tails” a testimonial section full of feedback and recommendations on places visited.  Rather than just blah quotes and PR hype from strangers, these felt like real stories from real travelers, people who had been charmed by Africa, its people, and its wildlife.

When I started reading this guide, I didn’t know what I wanted much beyond wanting to go on a safari in Africa and see animals.  Very simplistic.  After reading this guide, I’ve narrowed it down a lot.  I still don’t know exactly what’s right for me, but I’m a lot farther along my research journey.   I had no idea the depth and breadth of what was offered, and how it can shape my travel experience.

The strength of this book is its extensive practical information, the lure of the book is the beautiful photos.  Whether a safari is in your near future, or you are merely an arm chair traveler, Africa’s Top Wildlife Countries will open the door to a world that few have experienced.

You can buy Africa’s Top Wildlife Countries through The Africa Adventure Company ($17.95), from Amazon (aff. link) or at any book store with a quality travel section.

Photo credit: The Africa Adventure Company

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As a huge James Bond fan (Daniel Craig’s version is the best since Sean Connery), I thought the themed tours offered by Theme Party People and GLOBUS TOURS were right up any Bond Girl’s alley.

The exclusive 11-day bus and train tour takes you through Italy, Switzerland, and France, highlight sites that were made famous in the Bond movies.

Daniel Craig filming Casino Royale in Venice

Here are just a few of the stops planned:

• Venice – Seen in Casino Royale and Moonraker
• Cortina – Seen in For Your Eyes Only
• Locarno – Goldeneye and Goldfinger
• Lake Como – Casino Royale
• Interlaken – On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
• Geneva – Goldfinger
• Paris – A View to A Kill, Moonraker and Thunderball

The full itinerary lists the details of each stop, along with the tours, activities and sights at each location.

The tour starts August 21st, 2010, with an overnight flight to Venice, and and finishes up September 1st in Paris.  Optional add-on stays are available or you can fly home from Paris.

The tour cost is $3,995 per person, based on double occupancy, and includes luxury accommodations (including all hotel taxes, service charges, taxes, and tips to porters and hotel staff), ground transportation in Europe, some meals (10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 cocktails receptions, and 3 dinners), tour sightseeing (including admissions), and a multi-lingual tour director.

Items not included in tour charge:  Airfare, airport taxes and fees, meals and sightseeing not included in itinerary, personal expenditures, tips for driver, tour director, and local guides.  These expenses will add up quickly, so be sure to budget for them.

The tour is not for the budget-minded, but it is an opportunity to cavort like the rich and famous ala Mr. Bond.  It’s almost enough to make you feel like you have a license to kill.

Photo credit:  wonderferret @flickr

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In Boston’s North End you’ll find the small wooden home that was the starting point for Paul Revere’s infamous ride.  He lived in the home with his wife, five children, and mother, remaining in the home long after the ride that made him a legend.  The house was eventually sold around 1800.

Paul Revere House in Boston's North End

The Paul Revere House still stands today and is downtown Boston’s oldest building.  The home was opened as a museum in 1908, one of the first historic house museums in the country, and today it is one of the few buildings remaining from the colonial era.

Although it has been renovated substantially over the years, about 90% of the building is original back to 1680.  Some of the original items include two doors, three window frames, and portions of the flooring and rafters.  The heavy beams and large fireplaces were typical interiors of colonial homes, and the upstairs chambers contain furniture believed to have belonged to the Revere family.

This is a popular spot for school groups and families, and during spring break and summer there can be a long wait to get in.  Once inside the house, it will take about a half hour for a leisurely walk through.

Location:  19 North Square (map) on the Freedom Trail between Faneuil Hall (map)  and the Old North Church.

Hours:  Self-guided tours are available April 15th – October 31st, 9:30 am – 5:15 pm, and November 1st – April 14th, 9:30 am – 4:15 pm.  Closed on Mondays, January through March.

Admission:  $3.50 adults; $3 seniors and college students; and $1 children (ages 5-17).

Take the T: Take the green line to Government Center or Haymarket, or the blue line to Government Center of Aquarium, or the Orange line to State or Haymarket.

Special Note:  There are no public restrooms on site, so plan accordingly.

Photo credit:  Wikimedia Commons

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Visiting the United Nations Headquarters is a little like visiting 192 countries all in one locations.  Located along the East River, at 760 United Nations Plaza, on First Avenue between 42nd & 48th in New York City (map), the  complex consists of the Secretariat Building, the domed General Assembly Building, the Conference Building and the Hammarskjold Library.  Although located well with the city limits, the complex is considered international territory, and, exception by agreement, is subject to the laws and jurisdiction of the United States, the state of New York, and local laws.

United Nations Headquarters and view of Manhattan

Guided public tours of the complex are offered.  Visitors enter the headquarters building at First Avenue & 46th, and start the tour with a brief familiarization of the Organization and its structure.  A guide will then take you through a visit to the chambers of the Security Council, the Trusteeship Council, and the Economic and Social Council, providing information about what occurs in each of the rooms.  Visitors also get a look at a fabulous art collection, all donated by members of the U.N., that includes paintings, murals, tapestries, mosaics, and sculptures.

The tours ends with a stop in the General Assembly Hall, the largest room, and the one we must frequently see in televised events.  The impressiveness of what happens here is not lost on me.

Be sure to allocate some post-tour time for browsing at the Postal Counter where you can buy a variety of commemorative stamps, the Bookshop, and the Gift Shop.  While I generally avoid most gift shops, there was plenty of interesting stuff here, and it’s well worth spending the time to browse.

The guided tours are conducted Monday through Friday, from 9:30 am - 4:45 pm, and last 45 minutes.  You should check the tour information line as meetings and security can result in the complex closing with very little notice.  The tour line will have up-to-date information at 212-963-TOUR (8687).

Tour prices are $16 for adults; $11 for seniors (60+) and students (ID required); $9 for children ages 5 – 12.  For safety reasons, children under age 5 are not permitted on the tour.

Like most places in Manhattan, you’ll want to take public transportation.  You can take the 4, 5, 6, or 7 subway to Grand Central Station, then walk to 42nd & First.  Or take the bus, M15, 27, 42, or 104.

Manhattan’s international flavor isn’t limited to the United Nations Headquarters, it continues all over the city.  It seems like every single one of those 192 countries is represented in a restaurant, cafe, or bistro somewhere in the city.

Consider enhancing your sightseeing experience with a food experience, discovering authentic local foods and shops in the city’s neighborhoods, as you take in top attractions.  Whether you’re adventurous, or prefer the common, sightseeing always goes better with food!

NOTE:  This post is sponsored by Walking Tours Manhattan who offer new york city food tours.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Photo credit:  Ad Meskens via wikimedia

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