India visas for Canadians resumes
UPDATE December 2, 2023: Tourist visas for Canadians travelling to India has now resumed.
Good news for Canadians planning to travel to India. The Indian government has resumed visa services for travel to the country. However, not all visa categories are available, such as tourist.
Following is copy from the news release issued yesterday by the High Commission of India in Ottawa:
October 25, 2023 – Ottawa, Canada
News Release
The High Commission of India in Ottawa, Canada and its Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver were constrained to suspend visa services temporarily because of safety and security considerations.
After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services for the following categories with effect from October 26, 2023:
(a) Entry Visa
(b) Business Visa
(c) Medical Visa, and (d) Conference Visa
Emergency situations will continue to be addressed by the High Commission and the Consulates General as it is being done currently.
Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation.
As well, following are the links with information related to each of the categories for applicants:
Entry Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/visa-entry/
Business Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/business-visa/
Medical Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/medical-visa/
Conference Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/conference-visa/
Please note, however, what is not included is the tourist visa for Canadians to travel to India as tourists. I hope this resumes soon.
Ontario wine industry begins with the grape growers: meet the Wiley’s
Wine is, first and foremost, an agricultural business. For every glass of wine you drink, there is a hard-working farmer growing grapes used to make that wine.
In a way, these grape-growers are the unsung heroes of the wine industry. Without them, there would be no wine at your table.
Dave Wiley (left, the dad), me and Phil Wiley (right) at their farm near St. Catharines, Ontario
I recently had the opportunity to meet Phil and Dave Wiley, a father-son duo who are farmers and grape-growers based in Niagara. Dave, the father, also has a daughter who is a winemaker for Megalomaniac, a Niagara winery. I met the Wiley family at their farm near St. Catharines, Ontario. The Wiley’s may be best known for their popular Wiley’s Pure Juices product.
Wiley’s vines earlier this spring, before budding
According to the Grape Growers of Ontario, there are about 500 grape-growers in Ontario.
On their website, they provide some insightful statistics. The industry is much broader than the growers. There are suppliers for the vineyard equipment, trucking and shipping and warehousing the grapes. Also, consider there are many employees who work at the wineries, and beyond.
Here are some interesting numbers in Ontario:
- About 500 growers
- 18,000 grape-bearing acres, with nearly 14,000 acres in Niagara under vine
- Nearly 200 wineries
- Economic impact from tourism is more than $1 Billion
- 50+ kinds of grapes grown in Ontario
Ontario is considered a “cool climate” growing region (vs a warm climate such as Australia). There are certain grapes that do well here and that includes varieties. Some of the most popular grapes grown in Ontario include:
- White wine grapes: chardonnay and riesling
- Red wine grapes: cabernet sauvignon, gamay, merlot, pinot noir and vidal (ice wine)
For information about VQA Wines and Wineries, visit: VQAOntario.
Shannon Skinner is an inspirational writer, speaker and TV host and producer. You can watch her interviews at ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com and travel writing here on her blog, as well as other publications.
What to do, where to stay in New Orleans: 48 Hours in NOLA
If you are looking for a weekend getaway, New Orleans, Louisiana is a destination that has much to offer. Got 48 hours? Here’s what you can do, and where to eat and stay in New Orleans.
You can pack in a lot in 48 hours (2 nights/3 days) in the The Big Easy, a nickname originating from the laid-back attitude of the jazz scene, as I discovered on a recent visit. New Orleans has a whole lot going on, from its live jazz music scene, to chic bistros, sandwich shops, boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, museums, historical architecture, and other cultural delights.
The key to doing a lot in a short period of time is good planning and a solid itinerary; let me offer you mine. I am sharing with you my itinerary for my long weekend in New Orleans, which you can follow, or pick and choose whatever suits you. This itinerary basically highlights the attractions, activities and dining, just be sure you adjust for time and distance to get from place-to-place.
My Journey and Itinerary
My journey to New Orleans began travelling by van from Lafayette, Louisiana, where I was a keynote speaker at a conference for travel creators, TBEX conference for travel creators. I travelled with a group of travel creators/bloggers. My itinerary begins when our van landed in New Orleans at our hotel in time for lunch.
One thing to note upfront is, since I am a vegetarian, in my travel guides I include or mention vegetarian/vegan options.
DAY 1
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What to do in New Orleans During the Day
Early Lunch
Start with an early lunch at Joey K’s, a family-run restaurant offering homestyle Creole Louisiana soul food in an historic building located on Magazine Street in the heart of the Garden District. Joey K’s offers a range of dishes from the classic Po’ Boys to red beans and rice, to seafood, gumbo, jambalaya, bread pudding dessert and more. Vegetarian/vegan options: they have a large salad you can order without meat or cheese.
I ordered a garden salad
Some of the items my colleagues ordered
Go Exploring: Magazine St. and Garden District, Then Take the Charles Streetcar
Explore Magazine Street by foot and check out some of the quaint shops, antique stores, restaurants and bars.
Take a Garden District guided walking tour (Historic Orleans Tours) and discover historic mansions, lovely gardens and important architectural sites and history. The Garden District is a wealthy area and home of many celebrities, such as author, Anne Rice, who was born and lived in the ‘hood for many years, and based her books on the area. You can see the house where she lived (now different owners). Others include actors Sandra Bullock and John Goodman, as well as others. Plan for 2 hours.
The late Anne Rice’s former house that now belongs to someone else.
Our trusty tour guide, Rob Florence, taking us through the Garden District
Other mansions in the Garden District:
One of the area’s highlights is the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where more than 7,000 people are buried, including Rice’s fictional characters, the Mayfair Witches. The name of the cemetery is derived from the original name of the district which was called Lafayette. Fun fact: the Interview with a Vampire author, who recently passed away, got up to many shenanigans in New Orleans in real life, including staging her own funeral jazz parade while still alive and well.
Jump on the Charles streetcar to the downtown core. Along this scenic route are mansions, parks, large oak trees, restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and more. As this is the Mardi Gras parade route, you’ll notice many strings of colourful beads hanging from oak trees. Streetcars are a convenient and affordable way to explore New Orleans. There are 4 streetcar lines, originating from the downtown. One-way ticket cost: $1.25.
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What to do in New Orleans at Night
Dinner at Bombay Club, which offers live jazz music every night. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the restaurant specializes in fine Creole cuisine, and some dishes are infused with Indian fare. It is also known for its speciality cocktails and they have a selection of sharables. I ordered the tikka masala, paired with Oynos pinot grigio, and for dessert shared a sticky toffee bread pudding. Absolutely delicious. Vegetarian/vegan options: if you eat cheese, I recommend the masala, but if you don’t, ask your server for recommendations.
Delightful live jazz performance
Tikka masala
If you are lucky, you might see an exciting wedding jazz parade at night in the city, especially on a weekend, as we did. The police stop traffic and escort the brass band and partygoers through the streets.
Later, an evening stroll along the world-famous Bourbon Street. It will surely ignite all your senses. Catch live jazz music on every corner. The street is wall-to-wall bars, strip clubs and souvenir shops, and revellers. Have a drink on one of its famous balconies. Just off Bourbon Street, visit hotspot Pat O’Brien’s, renowned for its Hurricane Cocktail (for me, a glass of wine). Located on Peter Street, just off Bourbon St., it has a large open-air patio, a famous flaming fountain, live music (duelling pianos) and lively atmosphere.
Bourbon Street
Drinks with colleagues at Pat O’Brien’s
Note: On Bourbon Street, if you are snake-phobic (like me), be on the alert for people with snakes offering pedestrians to have photos taken with them. And overall, keep your wits about you.
DAY 2
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What to do in New Orleans During the Day
Breakfast
Start the day off with breakfast of the New Orleans classic, beignets, a small square-shaped donut-like fritter served with powered sugar, at Café du Monde. Located in the historic French Market, the oldest public market in the U.S., in New Orlean’s French Quarter district. Pair the beignets with a café au lait. Fun fact: the beignets were brought to Louisiana by the Acadians.
Beignets
Walking Food Tour, Historic French Quarter
Take a walking food tour in the French Quarter with Destination Kitchen. Our food tour featured a 3-hour walking food tour “venue hopping” with tastings at famous eateries, while learning about the fascinating history of New Orleans. Tastings included Louisiana favourites: gumbo, jambalaya, Po’ Boys, gator bites, charbroiled oysters, bread pudding, and more.
Vegetarian Po Boy made with French Fries
Simple yet delicious, classic beans and rice dish (vegentarian)
Platter with sandwiches for our group
The venues on our food tour: The historic French Market has a variety of food stalls where you can try many items, and it is affordable and ideal for the budget-traveller; The Market Café, which has live jazz on an open-air patio where you can sit and take your time; and ended at the New Orleans School of Cooking where we tasted sweet pralines. With Destination Kitchen, there is an option to combine a walking tour with a cooking class at New Orleans School of Cooking. Vegetarian/vegan options: they can accommodate; ask when booking.
City Festivals
Check out a city festival. New Orleans has more than 130 festivals every year, including Mardi Gras. For a brief part of the afternoon (30 minutes), I parked my butt on some grass at a park and enjoyed some live music at the 15th annual Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival that featured blues and jazz performances, an art market, BBQ vendors (with vegetarian options). Presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the festival took place at Lafayette Square. I caught the performance of the amazing Joy Clark (it was brief, though, because it rained). Check the entertainment listings for current festival events.
Tour Sazerac House
Late afternoon tour of Sazerac House, a relatively new fun and interactive venue where you will learn about the famous New Orleans Sazerac cocktail created in the 1850s, and experience a variety of tastings. Located at Canal and Magazine streets.
Sazerac House lobby
Sazerac House, sampling the famous drink
Sazerac House lobby
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What to do in New Orleans at Night
Dinner
Dinner at Meril, celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s latest concept and his fourth restaurant in New Orleans (Meril is named after his daughter). Located in the Arts Warehouse District, Meril is casual and contemporary with a lively atmosphere. There is something for everyone on the menu and the staff will happily adapt for food restrictions. Lots of sharable items on the menu, as well as a decent wine and cocktails selection.
Since I was with a group of travel bloggers, so we ordered a large variety of items to share, which ranged from fried turkey necks to devilled eggs, gnudi, ribs, eggplant, crisp cauliflower, chocolate mousse, yellowfin tuna bundle, and more. I had a beet and arugula salad, as well as vegetarian flatbread. The meal ended with candy floss for the table. For wine, I paired my meal with K Vintners Golden West Columbia Valley Pinot Noir 2019 (Washington). Vegetarian/vegan options: there are plenty of options.
The meal ended with candy floss with sparkles
If you desire a nightcap, consider the bar or lounge at the hotel as it is a packed day and you won’t have far to flop into your cozy bed.
DAY 3
-
What to do in New Orleans During the Day
Brunch, French Quarter
Brunch at the historic The Court of Two Sisters in the French Quarter (Royal Street), known for its live jazz brunch, creole cuisine and romantic outdoor courtyard. Enjoy some soulful entertainment while you feast on items from their extensive buffet, or order dishes such as omelets from the menu. Vegetarian/vegan options: the buffet has plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and yogurt.
Two Sisters outdoor patio
Live jazz musicians play outdoors on the patio
Explore Royal Street, French Quarter
To work off that food, take a stroll along Royal Street and through the neighbourhood. heck out the Voodoo shops and cool architecture.
One of the French Quarter’s famous buildings
Voodoo shops are popular here
Moi
Visit Vue Orleans
Afternoon, visit Vue Orleans, an interactive experience to learn about the history of New Orleans and view the city – a breathtaking view – from the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel.
The Four Seasons Hotel. Vue Orleans is on the 34th floor.
Interactive exhibition, video story of the founder of jazz.
Interactive exhibition
View of New Orleans from the rooftop of the Four Seasons Hotel
IF YOU GO…
Where to Stay:
New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District, located across from the Convention Centre on Convention Center Boulevard. Redesigned, comfortable and convenient. Rates range from about $230+ (U.S.), depending on when you go (check with the hotel directly for rates). The warehouse arts district was once an industrial area that evolved into an artsy and trendy area with art galleries, museums, boutiques, chic bistros and wine bars.
Photo courtesty Marriott
Getting There:
If you are travelling by air, taxi from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to downtown or French Quarter cost is approximately $40.00 (U.S.), with Uber being only a slightly less (by a few dollars). It takes roughly 20-30 minutes.
Getting Around:
A good option are the streetcars, convenient and affordable. Uber and taxis were reliable.
Safe for Women Travelling Solo?:
Stick to tourist or familiar areas, be aware of your surroundings at all time when in crowds and, of course, mind the alcohol.
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly?:
Louisiana cuisine is traditionally heavily meat-based and/or fried, though New Orleans has fabulous restaurants that offer healthy options for vegetarians/vegans.
What are your favourite things to do in New Orleans? I would love to hear from you. Tweet to me at @Shannon_Skinner.
I was a guest of New Orleans Tourism. Special thanks to Lafayette Travel and TBEX for making arrangements. Opinions are mine.
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning broadcaster, international speaker, author, and travel and wine writer. She is based in Toronto. Watch her interviews at www.ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com. For information on her speaking engagements, contact her at Shannon (at) ShannonSkinner.com.
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On slow travel
What is slow travel – and why is it important?
On slow travel:
Slow travel is a growing movement worldwide, particularly post-COVID, as people emerge from nearly 3 years of global travel restrictions and being stuck at home. For those travellers with chronic wanderlust, there is no greater hell than being stuck in one place, especially if a well-stocked pantry is merely steps away from your home office.
Slow travel is considered to be a focus on the connection and exploration of a region’s culture, food, arts and its people. It may include areas such as language, farming and viticulture. At its core, I think, is searching for authenticity.
The new Ironwood Cider House/Sunnybrook Farm I recently visited in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Slow travel examples:
Some examples of slow travel activities may include: hiking, cycling, backpacking, camping, spiritual quest, taking cooking classes, wine tasting experiences, working on a farm or vineyard. Maybe you have your own ideas of slow travel.
There are many benefits to slow travel, including: enrichment, education, mindfulness, relaxation, self-development, self-reflection, discovery and health (mind/body/spirit). It may also give one a sense of being a responsible tourist.
Slow travel originated in the food industry. It is said to have been born in Italy in the ’80s, as a protest to the opening of McDonald’s in Rome. I mean, who wouldn’t want to hang out in Rome for a while to eat authentic pizza and drink delicious vino?
And so, slow travel has been around a long time, but now we are only more conscious of it. That consciousness is growing in tandem with climate crisis concerns. For many, it is swapping of plane travel for more sustainable and environmentally-friendly ways of transportation. For others, it is taking time to get to know a place, its people and way of life.
My summer slow travel plans:
This summer, I am going to embrace slow travel and focus my attention and energy in Ontario’s Niagara “wine country” region. In particular, I am taking the time to visit Niagara’s wineries to increase my knowledge about wine, explore the culinary scene, meet the people, spend time in vineyards, which I find peaceful, and learn more about Canada’s wine industry. Wine education, frankly, is a never-ending pursuit. Thank Dionysus!
So far, this spring, I have visited nearly half of the 40 wineries in the Niagara-on-the-Lake wine region. In some cases, it was a brief drop-in to check out the premises, in others I spent more time exploring. Some are large commercial operations and others smaller boutique wineries, which I have a growing appreciation for. I will be writing more about my wine travels in the coming weeks, but in the meantime, here is a list of the wineries I have visited so far this season:
Niagara-on-the-Lake Wineries visited (so far):
Inniskillin Wines
Reif Estates Winery
Strewn Winery
Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery & Distillery
Trius Winery & Restaurant
Stratus Wines
Caroline Cellars
Marynissen Estates
Frogpond Farm Organic Winery
Ironwood Cider House (Sunnybrook Farm)
Bella Terra Vineyards (Pondview)
Konzelmann Estate Winery
NOMAD at Hinterbrook Winery
Peller Estates Winery & Restaurant
Two Sisters Vineyards
Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate
And so, as I put my summer plans into action, I will be spending time on the road and will report on my discoveries and experience soon.
I would love to hear about your plans for slow travel for 2022. Drop me a message or reach out on social media and let me know.
Shannon Skinner is an author, international speaker, creator/host of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com, and a travel and wine writer. You can find her on Twitter at @Shannon_Skinner.
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Interview: Madalyn Sklar, Twitter Expert, on why she loves Houston, Texas
In my Twitter Spaces series Places: Top Places to Love, I interview notable people on Spaces (live audio) about what they love about their home cities/countries, to inspire travellers to visit when we can travel again. I blog here about highlights from our conversations.
Madalyn Sklar (photo courtesy of Madalyn)
I recently interviewed Madalyn Sklar, a serial entrepreneur, community builder and Twitter marketing expert, on Twitter Spaces. Madalyn Sklar hosts the popular #TwitterSmarter Twitter chat and TwitterSmarter Podcast, as well as Spaces.
She has been named the #1 Social Media Power Influencer in Houston, 50 Women Entrepreneurs to follow. She also founded GoGirlsMusic, which grew into the oldest & largest online community of female musicians. She has cool tattoos.
Madalyn lives in Houston, Texas and she shared her favourite spots in her home city and state.
Madalyn’s ‘Top Places to Love’ Houston, Texas:
1) Gerald D. Hines Waterfall Park, Houston:
A multi-story sculptural fountain that sits opposite the south face of Williams Tower in the Uptown District of Houston. Has appeared in the background of several movies and TV series.
2) Space Center Houston:
Learning center about space and science with extraordinary experiences for the whole family.
3) Galveston
Thriving Galveston Bay area has loads of attractions from water parks, gardens and museums, to arts attractions, beaches, restaurants and more. It is only a short drive from Houston.
4) The Cockrell Butterfly Center, Houston
The Houston Museum of Natural Science houses the Cockrell Butterfly Center and Brown Hall of Entomology, filled with butterflies and insects.
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning author, speaker, broadcaster and travel writer. Watch Shannon’s interviews with Extraordinary Women at www.ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com.
Romantic cities for getaways (when we can travel again)
This month we celebrate Valentine’s Day, which is a good time to start dreaming about that romantic place to whisk away to, by car or plane, once we can travel (safely) again.
Budapest, Hungary
I decided to put together this list after I was thinking about the line in the movie When Harry Met Sally, when Sally (Meg Ryan) tells Harry (Billy Crystal) about her and her ex-partner talking about flying off to Rome on a moment’s notice while they were still in their relationship. It was a fantasy that never transpired.
That lead me to think about one of the most memorable lines in film, from Casablanca, when Rick (Humphrey Bogart) says to his former lover, Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman), “We’ll always have Paris,” a reference to their romance on the eve of World War II.
Rome, Paris…so many places in the world for romance.
So I put together a list of my top 10 cities to consider for your next romantic getaway. Some will be expected and others might be a surprise.
Quebec City, Canada (photo: Allice Hunter, WikiMedia)
1) Quebec City, Canada: Canada’s predominantly French-speaking city with European flare, cobblestone streets, quaint alleys and bistros with delicious food (be sure to try the crepes). Rest assured, you don’t need to speak French to visit.
Paris, France (photo: Pierre Blache, WikiMedia Commons)
2) Paris, France: Cliché, maybe, but Paris is Paris, brimming with history, art and literature, museums, romantic strolls along the Seine, and so much more.
Vienna, Austria
3) Vienna, Austria: A city filled with music and cafes, and stunning architecture, palaces, and, of course, chocolate. I have visited Vienna a couple of times and want to explore more of this stylish city.
Viennese chocolate
4) Budapest, Hungary: It is a superb choice for travellers interested in wellness because besides the wonderful architecture and safe nightlife, Budapest is home to world-renowned spas. See my photo essay.
Budapest, Hungary
5) Jaipur, India: The Pink City is one of my favourite spots in the world, with its ancient palaces and forts, with some, such as the Samode Palace, being popular spots for weddings and honeymoons. It has many heritage boutique hotels that were once royal family residences, like the Samode Haveli.
Fort Amer, Jaipur, India
6) Cheyenne, USA: Not an obvious one, Wyoming’s capital city is filled with intriguing cowboy and cowgirl history. It is a terrific starting point for those wanting to go hiking or skiing in Wyoming’s vast parks.
Cheyenne, Wyoming, USA
7) New York, USA: It’s almost too obvious to put on a list, but it’s New York and you can find anything you want to do and buy there.
Me, in New York (thanks to my friend Andrea for taking photo)
8) Boston, USA: One of my favourite spots. Years ago, I worked on the Massachusetts tourism account representing the commonwealth in Canada, and had the privilege of experiencing Boston at its best. From delicious seafood to history to the Boston Pops, there is much to do and see.
Boston, USA (photo: Nelson48 Wikimedia Commons)
9) Geneva, Switzerland: One of my favourite European cities, Geneva is a walkable city where you can enjoy international cuisine, world-class wines, chocolate and cheese, and high-end fashion, plus quaint art shops.
Geneva, Switzerland
10) Toronto, Canada: I can’t not mention my hometown, Toronto. It can be best described as a smaller and friendlier version of New York. It has high-end shopping, museums galore, international cuisine, an entertainment scene, some of the finest hotels and many parks.
Toronto, Canada
While this is merely a short list, the world is a big place and there are many destinations to consider. Rome, however, is not included because, unfortunately, I have not yet been! Hopefully this has sparked some inspiration to pack your bags and go…when it’s safe to do so.
Shannon Skinner is a broadcaster, author, international speaker, and travel and wine writer and consultant.
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A trailblazing woman’s travel guide to Wyoming
Me on the Medicine Bow Peak Gap Lake Trail
Wyoming, U.S.A. is a vast and rugged playground with mountains and a sky as far as the eyes can see.
Fondly known as the Cowboy State, there is another nickname, though, that is getting more buzz these days: the Equality State. That’s because next year, Wyoming will celebrate the 150th anniversary of women’s suffrage as the first territory in the U.S. – and the free world – to grant women the right to vote. It also happens to be a fabulous destination to visit.
On a 6-day road trip this month across Wyoming, I visited the historic sites honouring women’s suffrage and pioneering women who made an impact, and met many of today’s trailblazers who continue in the same spirit. This is my journey.
Low-hanging clouds over the plains
Day 1
I fly from Toronto to Denver, Colorado to meet a group of 13 women I would travel with for the next 6 days, and together we drive (2 hrs) to Cheyenne, the “magic city of the plains.” Our first stop is a tour of the national historic landmark, State Capital building (built 1886-90), which is undergoing a massive restoration project and expected to be completed next year. We are accompanied by Wyoming Senator, Affie Ellis, the first Native American to sit in the Wyoming senate.
State Capitol Building
“Mike” gives us a tour
Dinner is at the historic house of suffrage pioneer, Esther Morris, who, in 1870, became the first female Justice of the Peace. She is also believed to have pushed, in 1869, for a change to the constitution that would give Wyoming women the right to vote. Esther’s at the Morris House will soon open as a restaurant, and we get a preview from our hosts, John and Maria Kopper, who also own the pizza establishment, Bella Fuaco, across the street, where our meal comes from. Our group is joined by Wyoming Senators Affie Ellis and Tara Nethercott, and Diane Shober, director of Wyoming Tourism, who share their inspirational stories of Wyoming women.
Senator Affi Ellis and me
Senator Tara Nethercott welcoming remarks
So grateful to the owners for this experience
Later, I check into Little America Hotel and do some light yoga in my spacious room.
Little America Hotel
Day 2
Off to the Paramount Café for a breakfast bean burrito. Followed by a Cheyenne Street Railway Trolley Tour, with stops including: the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum, with its exhibits about early rodeos and its many stagecoaches; the Cowgirls of the West Museum; and Wyoming State Museum, featuring Wyoming’s history and culture.
Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum
A real Cowgirl volunteer at the Cowgirls Museum
Historically significant flag
A drive to the city of Laramie (45 mins) and lunch at Sweet Melissa’s, where Melissa herself drops by. We visit the Laramie Plains Museum and the Wyoming House for Historic Women.
Laramie Plains Museum
Laramie Plains Museum
History lesson at Laramie Plains Museum
We explore the downtown and drop by the largest craftsman co-operative in the U.S., The Bent & Rusty, where founder, Billie Eckhardt, gives a talk about their business and furniture-making workshops.
Billie Eckhardt talks Bent and Rusty
Bent and Rusy
Then we drive to Vee Bar Guest Ranch (30 mins), once a stage coach stop and post office, which has 5 historic buildings, like the John Wayne saloon, a cozy and comfy lodge, and guest cabins. After a tour of the barn and meeting some horses with owner, Kari Kilmer, we sit down for a buffet-style dinner in the lodge’s dining area. Then, with a grateful heart, I slip into my quaint room upstairs in the lodge.
Kari Kilmer, manager
Cowboy caviar for dinner
Day 3
We are hiking today, so it is an early drive to the village of Centennial (40 mins), with a stop for breakfast at the Mountain View Hotel and Cafe, where we meet our hiking guide, Rebecca Walsh, founder of HikeLikeaWoman.net. Then on to Lewis Lake (20 mins) where we hike Medicine Bow Peak Gap Lake Trail (5.5 kms) for 2.5 hrs. The air is crisp, a light dusting of snow covers the ground, and the scenery of the Snowy Mountain range is stunning.
Hiking Guide Rebecca Walsh
Then, on to city of Lander (3 hrs) and, after checking in at the Shoshone Rose Casino Hotel, we are hosted to a reception by the local women from Wind River Country at The Mill House, a beautiful property owned by entrepreneur Jill Hunter. An enjoyable evening listening to the stories of local women.
Reception at The Mill House
Lobby of Shoshone Rose Casino Hotel
Day 4
Breakfast is at The Middle Fork, where I enjoy lemony ricotta pancakes, and we have a visit from owner Jenna Ackerman.
The Middle Fork is modern and bright
Best pancakes ever
Then we depart Lander for South Pass City Historic Site, which was once a station on the Oregon Trail, but became a ghost town after the gold mines closed. What remains are some 30 historic structures from the 1860/70s, including the Carissa Mine. We sit for an history session with park superintendent, Joe Ellis, and architect, Pam Spencer Hockett.
Carissa Mine in the distance
Leaving South Pass and along the highway we see signage for the “Wyoming Women’s Suffrage Pathway,” an initiative driven by Wyoming Senator Tara Nethercott.
On to the Shoshone Tribal Cultural Center and are treated to a delightful hoop dance performance by two local dancers. We also meet reps from the Wind River Hotel to learn about their property.
Hoop Dance performance
Drummers
Now on to Casper, the second largest city in Wyoming (2 hrs). Our first stop is the cool and whimsical Backwards Distilling Company where owners Amber Pollock and wife Mallory mix some fun cocktails, and give us a tour of the facility.
Amber Pollock, owner, gives us a tour
Amber and wife Mallory make us cocktails
Dinner is at the new Grab and Go Gourmet where we meet founder, Maggie, and am treated to delicious vegetarian fare.
Maggie working hard in the kitchen preparing our dinner
Love Brussel Sprouts and tempeh
Then time to check-in at the Ramkota Hotel, with it’s wild west-inspired lobby and spacious rooms.
Day 5
Breakfast at the Cheese Barrel, where everything is made with cheese. Next is a private tour of the National Historic Trails Interpretation Center, which has fun interactive exhibits, like experiencing a ride in a wagon. Then we drive out to Casper Mountain (18 km), through snow, to tour the new Hogadon Basin Ski Area Lodge, and sit for a presentation by two Biathlon Club reps, followed by lunch.
View of Casper from the National Historic Trails Centre
It’s snowing on our way to Casper Mountain
Cauliflower steak for me for lunch
Returning to Casper, we drop by the new Crescent Moon Café, owned by young female entrepreneur (“McKenzie”), for lavender-flavoured lattes (and other in exotic flavours). Then an exclusive tour of the Nicolaysen Art Museum‘s private vault with Wyoming’s first and only female art curator, Amanda Yonker. The museum is planning an all-female themed show in 2020.
Amber Yonker showing us the Vault
Gallery of playful art
Now, the unexpected fun: we arrive at the Ugly Bug Fly Shop for a “fly-tying” class combined with tasting local wine (“Crazy Woman”), with local fishing guides.
Shop owner giving us a fly-tying session
Starting on my masterpiece
Help?! Female angler Addie Dees to the rescue!
One of my travel pals, Elaine, trying to figure this thing out
Crazy Woman wine. It just had to be so.
Finally, our last group dinner is at the Pump Room. Thankfully there is a fireplace we can sit next to, while I enjoy a Caesar salad and glass of Riesling.
Then it is back to the Ramkota Hotel for a good night’s sleep.
Day 6
Early morning drive to Denver (4 hrs) to catch a flight (Delta Airlines) to Toronto. Six days well lived.
* drive times are approximate
Resources: Wyoming Tourism
Transportation, accommodations, guides and meals provided/arranged courtesy of Wyoming Tourism.Opinions are my own.
Shannon Skinner is a Toronto-based travel writer, author, radio host and creator/host of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com. Tweet her at @Shannon_Skinner or Instagram: @shannon.skinner.
An evening in Japan, in Toronto
I had the pleasure of attending a fabulous evening showcasing the food and culture of Japan at the National Club in Toronto. It was a night of food, sake and entertainment for the tourism industry and VIPs. Since I have not yet been to Japan, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about this wonderful country.
Here are some highlights from the event:
The lovely Visit Japan Ambassador, Marta Magdalena Stephen, who was crowned Miss International Canada 2017. Wearing a traditional kimono, she spoke of her deep love for Japan.
A Japanese event would not be complete without Sake – and sparkling sake at that! There were many varieties offered for tasting over the course of the evening.
Consular General to Japan (in the lovely kimono) and another event attendee.
Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie as a VIP guest.
Traditional Drummers! Wow, this made my heart speed up, in a good way.
Sake and more sake
Appetizers
Dinner was 6 courses, including dessert. Each dish was paired with a different sake.
Since I am a vegetarian, they accommodated my diet restrictions. This was a Japanese style salad with daikon radish, mizuna greens, perilla leaves and lots root chips.
Soba noodles with pomegranate seeds and an avocado.
Portabello mushrooms with quinoa and veggies.
Second salad of cheese and tomato
At the end of the evening, the organizers had several draws for giveaways. The very last gift was a 7 day Japan Rail pass – and guess who won that?! Yes, me!! Thank you. I am looking forward to it.
Many thanks to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and all the event sponsors for a wonderful evening: Ginko Japanese Cuisine, Ozawa Canada Inc., Metropolitcan Premium Wines & Sakes, True World Foods, Gekkeikan sake, Ontario Spring Water Sake Company, Izakaya U, Zen, Kado Enterprise, Kimura Imports.
Shannon Skinner is the creator/host of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com, international speaker, radio host, author and travel writer.
Geneva’s special ‘chocolate pots’ for Escalade: video
The special chocolate pots made for Escalade festivities.
With December around the corner, I am reflecting back to the time I visited Geneva, Switzerland in December 2014 to attend the annual festival, Escalade, a long traditional celebration of the victory of the city of Geneva over the Savoys – 500 years ago. During that time, I had the opportunity to visit Stettler Chocolates, a boutique laboratory, where I learned how to make Geneva’s famous “chocolate pot” that are made in special honour of Escalade.
Here is a video of the making of the chocolate pots. Robert, chocolate master at Stettler Chocolates, explains and shows us how. Enjoy!
Here are some photos of the chocolate-making lesson:
That’s me making chocolate pots
Robert the ‘chocolate master’ at Stettler Chocolates giving instructions.
They are made in a variety of sizes. They are filled with marzipan shapes like vegetables. Made with both milk chocolate and dark chocolate. The chocolate pots are only available in Geneva and only during Escalade. Fun fact: the Swiss invented milk chocolate.
Making the marzipan vegetables that fill the chocolate pots.
The kitchen at Stettler Chocolates
Chocolate pieces for the handles of the pots
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Shannon Skinner is an award-winning host/creator of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com, radio host, speaker, author and travel writer. Tweet to her at @Shannon_Skinner.
Travel Deals: Azores Airlines:Toronto-Ponta Delgada/Toronto-Porto or Lisbon
TRAVEL DEAL OF THE WEEK:
My Canadian traveller friends, here is a seat sale fare alert from Azores Airlines that you might want to take advantage of:
- Toronto to Ponta Delgada from $709 roundtrip, taxes and fees included.
- Toronto to Porto or Lisbon from $931 roundtrip, taxes and fees included.
These rates are available until November 31, 2017 and valid for travel from November 1st – March 24th, with a blackout period over the holidays. All promotional details can be found at www.azoresairlines.pt/canada.
Note: Azores Airlines is also offering a free stopover of up to seven nights in the Azores. This is a great way to take advantage of the seat sale to Porto or Lisbon and see the Azores enroute.
* Graphics/photography courtesy of Azores Airlines.
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning host/creator of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com, radio host, international speaker, author and travel writer. Tweet to her at @Shannon_Skinner.
