The Great Girlfriends’ Getaway in Huntsville
When more than 700 women from across Ontario get together in magical Muskoka for the Huntsville Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend, it is a time to relax, let down the hair and unleash the inner wild child. For the past seven years, during the bleak month of November (that “in-between seasons” time when the sky is often grey and air is filled with melancholy), girlfriends have been gathering for a special weekend of celebration, relationship nurturing and retail therapy, er, I mean shopping.
I had first learned of this event a couple of years ago when Canadian singer/songwriter, Jann Arden, performed — and it sparked my curiosity. This year (Nov. 8-10), I had the opportunity to attend and what a fun weekend it was.
Organized by a number of local partners including Downtown Huntsville, Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, Tourism & Events Huntsville, Paradigm Events and Deerhurst Resort, Muskoka’s largest resort, there are a wide-range of well-planned activities and events geared to just women. After all, it is all about the girls. Each year, many of the downtown Huntsville businesses and shops get in on the fun, offering enticing deals and promotions. There are fashion shows; an annual “make-over” event organized by local dentistry, Dr. Drew Markham; and cooking demonstrations. As well, girlfriends had the opportunity to get their photos taken with the Toronto Firefighters’ calendar models.
(photo: Laura Kennedy, marketing manager, Deerhurst Resort and me with Toronto Firefighters’ calendar models/photo credit: Andrew Hiorth)
At the heart of all the action is Deerhurst Resort, which is located just two hours and 2 turns north of Toronto, and only minutes from tourist-oriented Huntsville, Algonquin Park and Arrowhead Park, and spread across 760 waterfront acres on Peninsula Lake/Sunset Bay in Muskoka. Guests at Deerhurst — or “girlfriend central” — who were taking part in the Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend were able to relax at the spa; purchase unique products from on-site vendors by local artisans and businesses, and grab some swag; dance and party to live music; and enjoy delicious meals together. There were also a variety of home décor and health-oriented workshops, as well as fitness activities, such as belly dancing, yoga and aqua-fit. There were free shuttles organized to take us to downtown Huntsville (only a few minutes away) for shopping and additional events, including the highlight of the weekend: a concert by rocker Pat Benatar and husband, Neil Giraldo. And with the package priced at $299, which includes accommodations at Deerhurst, a Marché dinner, workshops, fitness and a concert ticket, it is definitely well-worth it.
(photo: live music at Deerhurst Resort/photo credit: Andrew Hiorth)
“Deerhurst has been an enthusiastic partner of the Huntsville Girlfriends’ Getaway from the get-go,” says Laura Kennedy, marketing manager, Deerhurst Resort. “Not only is it fun – both for guests and our staff – but it shines the spotlight on how vibrant, exciting and warm Huntsville is as a destination, and introduces a lot of women to Muskoka outside of the traditional summer vacation period. We see women coming back year after year because they value the great time they have together.”
The women who attend are from a wide-range of ages (from 30-70 years), multi-generational, and many are repeat guests. They come with extended families and groups of friends. Some of the attendees I talked to were happy to just have some “me” time away from family obligations.
One of those women is Heather Ravelle, an aesthetician, wife and mother of two grown boys from St. Catharines, Ontario, who attended with four close friends. “As I find myself in my fifties, it’s more important than ever to take the time to stay close with my cherished friends, and the weekend at Deerhurst is an integral way of nurturing our friendships, and bringing love and laughter into our busy lives.”
I spoke with Ravelle at Deerhurst’s “Girls Rock”-themed dinner and party, where women dressed in their best “rocker chick” outfits. Ravelle and her friends, who came dressed as the “Purplettes” (pictured below in the centre of the photo), were rockin’ the night away, and all plan on making this an annual event. Adds Ravelle: “We loved the idea of letting our hair down, being silly and having fun. Life at home raising our children and working is always so serious. It allows us to recharge our batteries, so when we get back to the realities of life we can be better people at those jobs.”
(Photo: Girlfriends including Purplettes [centre] unleash their “inner rocker” at Deerhurst Resort’s Girl Rocker party/photo credit: Andrew Hiorth)
One of the features of Deerhurst Resort’s special programming that I thought was great added value was its variety of workshops, which included a fun and insightful chocolate and wine pairing, hosted by Kevin Richards and Janine Dezotti. As well, there were workshops on how to make wreaths for the holidays; floral design lessons; discovering the healing powers of essential oils; discovering natural cosmetics; and mystifying weight loss.
“Girlfriends Getaway Weekend is a special weekend full of inspiring spirit and bonding,” says event organizer, Michelle Planche, president, Paradigm Events, which has been bringing girlfriends together at Deerhurst for the past seven years. “This year, over 700 women came together to relax, unwind, laugh and celebrate their friendships.”
(Photo: Girlfriends rockin’ it at Deerhurst Resort’s Girl Rocker party/photo credit: Andrew Hiorth)
One workshop, in particular, that I attended which was thoroughly enjoyable was “how to set your table décor for any occasion,” which had a timely focus on Christmas, hosted by local Muskoka resident, Tari Roossien, decorator and owner of Urban Rustic Living. Roossien, who moved from Toronto to Muskoka 12 years ago, spends her days helping locals with their home and cottage decorating needs from start to finish. And with the holidays coming up, Roossien has this to say about holiday decorating: “Add a bit of nature to your Christmas because it has a soothing effect. You don’t have to buy glitz. Simply, take a rest — it’s not that complicated.”
The major annual highlight of the Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend is a concert by a female performer. This year it was Pat Benatar. At 60 years of age, Benatar is still going strong, and she had concert-goers singing and dancing everywhere on the floor and in the aisles. Although it had been some time since I listened to Benatar’s lyrics, I managed to pull them out of a hat and sing along myself.
For some girlfriends, the weekend provides a welcoming reprieve from the realities of challenging personal times. Susan Bradley, a 52 year old single mother of a 25 year old son, who lives in Oshawa and works in Toronto as a financial analyst, attended with 30 of her closest friends. “This was the best girls’ weekend ever, and believe me, we’ve had many,” says Bradley, whose husband of 20 years left about a year ago, a time in her life that she has described as “rough.” “The event was so well organized and the staff and the town of Huntsville couldn’t have been more welcoming. We will definitely be back next year and I expect our number to be closer to fifty the next time.”
Although not officially part of the Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend programming, coinciding with the event was the Huntsville Festival of the Arts featuring Canadian legend, Liona Boyd, in concert, who I later sat down with for an interview for a forthcoming episode of Extraordinary Women TV.
Overall, it was a fun weekend and I can not wait to see what is planned for next year.
About Deerhurst Resort: Acquired by Skyline Hotels & Resorts in January 2011, Deerhurst Resort is one of Canada’s most significant historic properties. Since 1896, Deerhurst has welcomed vacationing families and couples, as well as meetings and conference guests to the lakeside retreat. Most recently, hosted to international leaders during the 2010 G8 Summit.
**Photos credit: Andrew Hiorth, Mississauga Photography Studio & Gallery Inc.
The holy Isle of Iona, perfect for pilgrims
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: Travel Tips for Women
Shannon Skinner writes about the holy Isle of Iona; the article originally appeared in Infinity Magazine (winter ’12).
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If a pilgrimage to ancient spiritual sites is on your wish list, the holy Isle of Iona might have what you are seeking. With its connection to early Christianity, this tiny rocky island located off the west coast of Scotland has been attracting pilgrims since medieval times. What’s more, 2013 marks the 1,450th anniversary of St. Columba’s arrival on the mystical island.
Thought to be formed from Earth’s oldest rock (possibly 1500 million years), the remote island of Iona is easily accessible. Best of all, you get to view some of Scotland’s spectacular scenery while en route. Iona has something for the whole family; as well as the solo traveler seeking a sanctuary for peace, contemplation and reflection.
Located outside the abbey church is St. Columba’s Shrine, which has especially drawn many visitors to the island over the centuries.
While there is not much left to see of Columba’s monastery, with the exception of its vallum that once surrounded it, you can get a sense of the mystical, inspired energy that its former inhabitants experienced.
Of special interest is St. Oran’s Chapel and graveyard, the final resting place for 48 Scottish kings, including Kenneth mac Alpin and Macbeth (of Shakespeare fame), as well as other kings, nobility and clan chiefs. Their coffins were carried along the cobbled “road of the dead” from the Abbey.
Iona’s nunnery, formerly a Benedictine priory, was established in 1203 and known to the locals as “the black church” because of the black habits worn by its Augustinian nuns. All that remains today of the building are pink granite walls. What is also interesting about the nunnery’s history is the nuns had opened its doors to female pilgrims; and noble women, some who apparently lived a fair distance away, were laid to rest in its burial-grounds.
Iona’s carved stone collection is impressive, which includes “Columba’s Pillow,” believed to be the tombstone of St. Columba made from the stone that he rested his head upon as he slept; and the rare surviving grave-slab portraying a prioress, Anna MacLean (died 1543).
Beyond its ancient sacred sites, Iona has a small and active community, and there is much to experience and enjoy. While most visitors go for the day, there are a few hotels and B&Bs for those interested in staying longer. The island has charming restaurants, shops, tearoom, arts and crafts, and working studio. Its residents are known to be self-sufficient, using food primarily grown locally. If you wish to explore the island by bicycle, you can rent one from the general store. Additionally, the nearby beaches are also spectacular to kick back on, provided it is not raining.
If you are interested in staying on Iona and living in the abbey’s cloister where you can experience a week-long pilgrimage around the island, the Iona Community runs residential centers on Iona and Mull.
Special Events: To commemorate the 1450th anniversary of St. Columba’s landing, Historic Scotland and the Iona Community have planned activities throughout 2013. Check out their websites for details.
Getting there: Iona can be reached by taking a 10-mins. ferry from Fionnphort on Mull. Or via Oban in Argyll and Bute. Regularly-scheduled ferries connect to Craignure on Mull, and then a 35-mile drive to Fionnphort ferry terminal.
Resources:
Historic Scotland
Iona Visitor’s Guide
Iona Community
Shannon Skinner is an author, speaker, consultant, and host and producer of Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner. She occasionally writes travel articles for women.
This article was originally published in Infinity magazine.
VIDEO: When butter and egg hit the road: how one woman lives her dream of traveling the world
My theme this week is one of my greatest loves: travel. I get tremendous joy from exploring our magnificent planet. Most people I know also enjoy traveling; it is seemingly universal. It is one of the best ways to get inspired and to change routine.
While routine has its comforts, it becomes ho-hum boring, eventually leading to complacency and is, inevitably, a creativity killer; a topic I cover in my book, The Whispering Heart: Your Inner Guide to Creativity. Whenever I need to shake it up, I pack a bag and go somewhere — anywhere. Travel is stimulating, often adventurous and exhilarating, and I usually meet interesting people. Travel can also be the best medicine for overcoming health issues such as depression, as author Jan Wong, who I recently interviewed, wrote about in her memoir.
Last weekend, I managed to get away to a friend’s cottage in Muskoka, a “cottage country” region north of Toronto. En route, I noticed the sign of a street called “Butter and Egg Road.” Now, this is not just any street. Coincidentally, it happens to be the name of the dream business of one of my recent guests on my show Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner.
Seeing the street sign so unexpectedly got me reflecting on my own dream: to travel the world doing what I love and getting paid to do it. In fact, my love for travel prompted me to start writing Shannon’s Travel Bag: Travel Tips for Women, an occasional article series providing tips, advice and inspiration for women travelers. Finding a way to get paid to travel is an ideal way to see the world and I truly admire those people who do it — and live their dreams.
One of those people is Ivy Ackerman, founder, Butter and Egg Road, a traveling supper club.
After a fateful trip to Paris, Ackerman was inspired to turn her love of travel, food, art and culture into a business. So she launched Butter and Egg Road, a private member’s club that brings together an international community of like-minded people to share their love of food, travel, art and culture during weekend social events in different cities across North America. The organization’s name is inspired from — you’ve got it — the name of that road in the Muskoka region that I drove past where the Ackerman family owns a cottage.
One of the goals of Butter and Egg Road is to introduce travelers to the art and culture, and the locals, of the particular city that is being featured. While Butter and Egg Road got its start in Toronto, Ackerman has been busy expanding the program in other cities, including Montreal, New York, Chicago and Miami; and soon San Francisco, LA and London.
Shortly after the interview, I got to experience first-hand a Butter and Egg Road event: a wine tasting conducted by a notable sommelier held in a quaint local art gallery in Toronto’s Leslieville neighborhood (I might add, the hottest evening of the summer). It was an intimate gathering of people from a variety of backgrounds (only a maximum of 12 is allowed at each event).
While sipping some superb wine, I met Toronto-based dating and relationship expert, Jen Kirsch, who I subsequently interviewed on the show. Kirsch, also a first-time attendee, was quick to point out that the Butter and Egg Road event was perfect for single women and men, whether they are locals or travelers visiting our city, who are looking to meet a potential partner.
Later that evening, there was a sit-down dinner, which was held at a local restaurant also in the same neighborhood. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the dinner because it was sold out (too bad for me, but a good sign for Butter and Egg Road). Though I later learned it was a fun evening.
Through the world of Ivy Ackerman, a young woman who courageously follows her heart, I had the opportunity to see a different way to live the dream of traveling the world and getting paid to do it.
If you have a dream of traveling the world doing what you love, I invite you to check out my interview with Ivy Ackerman. In this in-depth conversation, Ackerman shares how she has blended her love of food, travel, art and culture, into a way of living her dream. She also discusses the heart and spirit of Butter and Egg Road, its significance, and where she envisions going with it in the future. I hope this interview inspires you to live your dream and see more of this magnificent planet. If you are single, maybe one of Butter and Egg Road’s events will lead you to your soul mate. You never know.
This article is cross-posted at www.HuffingtonPost.ca.
My perfect day in New York City
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: Travel Tips for Women
Shannon Skinner writes about her perfect day in New York City.
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If you know me, you know I have a love affair with New York City. It is a city that I find so electrifying and full of life. It is the heartbeat of the world. If you are shaking your head ‘no’ in disagreement with this statement, just imagine what life would be like without the New York Stock Exchange and Wall Street.
This past weekend, I went to New York for some R&R and to get re-energized and inspired. For many people, summer-time is the season to putter in the garden, work on the cottage, or simply chill-out with family while the kids are out of school. I find it is nearly impossible to get down time in my home city of Toronto, regardless of the season. I don’t have a cottage in the Muskokas to escape to. In fact, I never will have a cottage because I have no desire to be anchored to one — I’d rather travel. Probably like you, I have many distractions and a thousand reasons why I should be “working” 24/7. For me, to allow my mind to wind down and vacate for a bit, and to reclaim my energy when it gets depleted (and oh boy it does), I need to get away. In fact, I’ve come to accept that I have no choice.
For many people, travel is considered a luxury. It is something you do once you have wealth, or when you retire. There was a time when I did not travel because I did not have the money or could not take the time away from my work. However, I have come to realize that by taking off time and going to a place that inspires me, I have more energy than I had before, and the inspiration is the gasoline that fuels me to keep being productive and achieve my goals. Without it, my tires go flat. So it does not do me any service to not travel.
I spent Sunday in the most marvellous way. In the morning, a dear friend of mine and I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It has been a few years since I had been to the Met, and I felt a desire to surround myself with the beauty of some of the greatest genius artists since the beginning of time. After a couple of hours of meandering through its vast galleries and halls, my friend and I had a brunch in the Met’s restaurant. How divine it was to sip on a glass of chilled prosecco along with a decent-sized serving of French toast, while surrounded by a view of the park on one side and a bright naturally-lit hall filled with amazing life-size statues on the other.
And with temperature soaring in the 90s in Manhattan, a scorcher of a weekend, the museum’s cool air conditioning was a welcomed reprieve.
The Met, one of the best art museums in the world, offers so much education about art history. As far as my taste in art is concerned, I must admit my favourite artists are the 19th century European impressionists. What’s not to love about Monet’s water lilies? There is something uplifting and almost calming about the work of the impressionists.
The Met has something to offer for everyone, regardless of your taste in art, age, or background. There is always something to learn and experience. And be sure to check out the rooftop terrace, which offers an impressive view of the city.
Following our morning with the art masters, my friend and I found ourselves at the River Café, which is situated under the Brooklyn Bridge, on the Brooklyn river side. We treated ourselves to a beverage at the bar, which had talented piano player behind us and an amazing, unobstructed view of lower Manhattan in front of us. I must add, the restaurant, which is world-renowned, has a lush garden of flowers, one of the best indoor display of flowers I have ever seen, inside the entrance. The restaurant is also famous for holding the graduation party for JFK when he graduated from law school.
The bar had friendly bartenders who entertained my friend and I with their travel stories. Although we did not have anything to eat, from what I could around me, the food looked delicious.
It was a wonderful environment to catch-up with my friend, reminisce, to share dreams, hopes — and a few laughs.
For me, this was the perfect way to spend a Sunday. What’s yours?
Restaurant review: New York’s One if by Land, Two if by Sea, terrific for weekend jazz brunch
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: Travel Tips for Women
Shannon Skinner reviews one of New York City’s most romantic restaurants: One if by Land, Two if by Sea. Shannon experienced the “weekend jazz brunch.”
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On a recent trip to New York City, I had the pleasure of experiencing a Sunday jazz brunch at one of the most romantic restaurants in New York: One if by Land, Two if by Sea. I had heard about the restaurant’s popular weekend jazz brunch and it was on my wish list.
The ambiance was elegant and inviting. While the decor may have somewhat of an old boys club feel to it, which may not appeal to everyone, that masculine energy is balanced with the feminine touch of fresh-cut flowers and candles placed on the tables, and charming chandeliers. Perhaps this establishment is romantic in a cliché sort of way. But, I like it. I enjoy a place with an historic feel, as if one is stepping back in time.
One if by Land, Two if by Sea is rich with history. Located on Barrow Street, it is a landmark Greenwich Village 18th century carriage house that once belonged to vice president Aaron Burr.
The weekend jazz brunch is a great time to experience this place particularly because of the live jazz music, which is only on weekends. It did not disappoint.
My friend and I were seated in the dining room next to the windows with a wonderful view of the courtyard garden, which we managed to reserve in advance. The wait staff were wonderfully friendly and helpful. In fact, when they discovered I was traveling back to Toronto by overnight bus, an experience I set out to explore and write about, the staff thoughtfully packed a “take-away” bag for me filled with some of their delicious bread rolls for my long trip home.
As for the brunch menu, I ordered the strawberry brioche French toast, with rhubarb compote and vanilla anglaise. It was the best French toast I have ever had – seriously ($14). Of course, a Sunday jazz brunch in such a sophisticated setting could not be complete without a refreshing glass of Prosseco ($10).
Other main dishes on the weekend brunch menu include: variety of egg dishes, pancakes, lobster roll, chicken caesar, ahi salad and steak frites. For dessert, be sure to try the caraibe chocolate ganache ($12). Vegetarians (that’s me) might find the menu a bit restrictive, depending on how strict a vegetarian you are. I did ask for some minor adjustments to my dish and they were accommodating. Nonetheless, you are sure to find something satisfying.
The venue is also a terrific place for weddings or any other special occasions. There is the mezzanine that can accommodate a small group; and the party room that can be booked for private functions.
After brunch, when I was leaving, one of the managers kindly walked me (along with my suitcase) to the nearest subway station to ensure I would get there safely – and on to my next destination. I quite appreciated that.
Overall, I thought it was a fabulous experience.
DETAILS:
Restaurant: One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Location: 17 Barrow St., New York City / (212) 255-8649 / www.oneifbyland.com
Ambiance: elegant, comfortable, inviting and not too loud.
Decor: historic boys club feel, balanced with the feminine touch of fresh flowers and candles on the tables. Nicely done.
Service: Friendly and helpful.
Live Jazz Music: Saturdays and Sundays only.
Jazz Brunch price range: starters – $6-21 / main – $13-18 / desserts – $8-12 / coupe d’ amour – $10-13
Jazz Brunch hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Women traveling solo-friendly: yes.
Shannon’s Rating (of 4 stars): ★★★★
photo credit: One if by Land, Two if by Sea
Shannon’s Travel Bag: Travel Tips for Women is an occasional article series of reviews, tips and inspiration for women travelers.
copyright © Shannon Skinner
Toronto-New York by overnight bus: a test of resilience
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: travel tips for women
Shannon Skinner travels by overnight bus from Toronto-New York City: a test of resilience.
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This past weekend, I went to New York City. It was a last-minute decision to attend a reunion with Oxford University alumni and also visit a dear friend. Since it was so last minute, I had decided to take the overnight bus. Besides, I was up for an adventure.
I had recently heard about the overnight bus from Toronto to New York City and how popular it is with students and people working in the entertainment industry. I have not taken a bus, particularly an overnight one, since, well, I can’t remember. In my twenties and early thirties, I traveled extensively, much of it by bus. I had wondered if, now in my forties, I could handle 9-10 hours pulling an all-nighter in a sardines-can-on-wheels.
So, I put it to the test.
On Thursday, I arrive at Toronto’s downtown bus station in the early evening, fully prepared for my 10 hour trip (except for a bottle of water that I neglected to bring) and my first impression about the clientele is, how do I say, slightly different than what you might see in an airport. On the bus, I notice that most of the passengers are women.
We get off to a good start at roughly 9:30 p.m., and I am happily on my way to the Big Apple, but roughly about an hour into the trip, the bus stops at a set of lights on the highway — and stalls. I know this is not a good sign. The driver, who I think was a comic-wannabe, can’t get it started again and is clearly sweating it. Eventually, after about 10 minutes or so, he fires it up and tells us in his comical way he “hopes” we would arrive at our destination.
Hopes?! Okay, so I think:”Let’s find a little more certainty here!”
And off we go…again…
Thankfully, the bus is an express, with short stops in Buffalo, Syracuse, Rochester, picking up and dropping off other passengers and, of course, a pit stop at Canada-U.S. customs. In Buffalo, we get a new driver, whose physique makes me slightly uneasy because he looks like a prime candidate for a heart-attack.
By now, the bus is freezing. I politely ask our driver with no name if he could “turn up the heat,” as did another young woman. But, he is not interested in co-operating. “I like it cold,” he says. “I’m a cold-weathered person. Sorry.”
I guess it is his bus, he calls the shots. This means I freeze.
Then the bus driver informs us that he was told by another bus driver that Greyhound is fully aware that this bus has a problem with the heating and yet still puts it out on the road – and the bus drivers are not recommending people take this particular coach (Greyhound coach #1329).
Okay. So, we’re still freezing. I manage to catch a few winks, until the bus finds its way on the shoulder of the highway. The distinct sound of the pavement underneath, and the vibration, jolts people awake, me included, with some people gasping. So I think to myself: “Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all.”
Smooth sailing again and before I know it I arrive at the chaotic Port Authority in Manhattan with a stiff neck and cramped hips, but happy to be back in the city that does not sleep.
Sunday night comes too quickly, though, and my weekend is over (I didn’t get to the full reunion as life got in the way, but did get to one important reception). On the route back, I manage to get on an earlier bus than I had booked — the 7:30 p.m. Thankfully, there was no change fee and I just had to stand in line, as it is first-come, first-served. The ride is much smoother than the outbound one, the bus is more updated — and warm. However, a newborn sitting in front of me cries for what seems like an eternity. No way to escape the screaming, and my patience tested, I feel trapped. And grouchy. Although I’m not sure what is more annoying: the screaming baby or the mother who was constantly “sshhh’ing” it. Somehow, because I am feeling almost desperate to sleep at this stage, the sounds seemed amplified.
There is one redeeming factor on this bus trip for me — though it certainly is not the wild-hair, bespectacled woman who snaps at me for mistakenly sitting in her seat. It is the young man I sit next to on the way home. He is student at a college in Rochester, and a New York native. I’ll call him Jay. Jay dons a big, shiny, faux diamond earring stud and a baseball cap. He looks like a rapper. I learn that he is a DJ and studies communication, and has big dreams. I also learn he is putting himself through school and has a deep desire to succeed and inspire others – to give back. We talk about personal development, education, money, dreams — and Les Brown and other motivational speakers. Maybe one day, he says, he’ll be a motivational speaker, too.
Even though we are years apart in age, I connect with this young man and adore his spirit. Listening to his dreams inspires me to keep following mine.
Thank you, Jay.
Finally, we arrive in Toronto at 5:40 a.m. at a deserted and quiet Union Station, and I hop on the first subway train of the day – at 6:05 a.m. I am home by 6:30 a.m., just in time to start my work day, albeit with a foggy brain (and not before a much-needed nap).
As for my test of resilience: I passed. I think taking the overnight bus is a terrific option for students and travelers on a shoestring budget. But, next time I travel to New York, I think I will fly.
Ticket Cost: $118, round-trip (fares may vary, so check in advance)
Reservations: click here
Tips:
1. If you are traveling the Toronto-New York route in the colder months, do NOT take Greyhound coach #1329. Wait for the next bus.
2. Be sure to pack a bottle of water.
3. Wear comfy clothes – yoga pants are ideal.
4. Book on-line in advance for best fares. Seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.
© Shannon Skinner 2012
Avalon Reef Club, Isla Mujeres: hotel review
Shannon's Travel Bag: travel tips for women
SHANNON’S TRAVEL BAG: travel tips for women
Shannon Skinner visits the Avalon Reef Club, Isla Mujeres, Mexico that’s an island unto itself.
I have visited Isla Mujeres, Mexico on three separate occasions over the past two years. It has a wonderful energy and beauty that keeps calling me back. One of the other reasons I love returning is because the locals are so “sunny” — they smile A LOT. It was no exception with the staff at the Avalon Reef Club Isla Mujeres, whose sunny dispositions and wide-open smiles did not disappoint.
Photo: Aerial view of the resort located on an enchanting private islet that is attached to Isla Mujeres by a small wooden bridge. I felt like I had my own private island. Courtesy Avalon Reef Club
Located on the secluded island of Isla Mujeres, (“Woman Island”), just a 20 mins. ferry ride from Cancun, the Avalon Reef Club, a luxury hotel, sits on its own private islet. After arriving on Isla Mujeres, I took a taxi from the pier to the hotel, which took all of five minutes through the town. We drove along a small wooden bridge across a shallow channel of water to get to the property. Once there, I felt like I had my own private island. Given the name, it is as enchanting as one might expect.
Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, the property offers a spectacular view of the water, amazing sunsets, enjoyment of powdery beaches, rejuvenation of the spirit and romance for those looking for a getaway.
Photo: spacious and modern lobby, complete with a billiards table; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
The amenities are ideal for weddings, retreats, seminars and conferences. I had attended the We Move Forward 2012 International Women’s Day three-day conference (March 8-10 2012) that was held in the property’s event centre. I attended representing my web TV show, Extraordinary Women TV with Shannon Skinner, that was the event’s media partner. The event centre itself was located outside the main building, and is circular in shape and bright with lots of windows. (Considering Isla Mujeres means the “Women Island,” I thought it was the perfect setting for such an event.) We were well taken care of by the staff. So if you run retreats or seminars for women, I highly recommend this venue.
Photo: the event centre; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
The hotel offers standard hotel rooms and suites, and also Spanish-style studios that have a few alcoves and a gazebo situated next to the water with a breathtaking view. All rooms in the tower have an ocean view. My room was a standard one. It had everything I needed for my five night stay, including the soothing sound of the rolling waves underneath my window. For small groups, the studios might be an ideal choice.
To me, a hotel’s staff can make or break a stay. The staff at the Avalon Reef Club were friendly, courteous and helpful. In fact, one of the staff at the desk graciously went beyond the line of duty to help me book transportation to the airport from the ferry.
Photo: the Spanish-style studios along the water; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
There are a few restaurant/bar options on-site offering tasty Mexican and international food, although the service was a bit tardy. However, I was in no rush so my patience was not tested.
The hotel’s natural swimming pool looked so inviting, though I did not have time to dip my toe in it, let alone enjoy it, sadly.
The only drawback about this venue to me is that it is quiet at night (especially if you enjoy nightlife). But, depending on your values, this may be a benefit. The hotel is only a 10 mins. walk to bars and restaurants, and the benefit is you can retreat to peace and quiet after a night out.
Photo: the beaches are sugar-white and feel great under the feet, especially on early morning walks; courtesy Avalon Reef Club
The hotel manager, Diana Arriaga, speaks English and is highly resourceful and eager to ensure you enjoy your stay.
For solo women: consider not wearing the wristband that the hotel supplies and instead keeping it in your wallet and showing it when you are required to, rather than walking around the town with it on your wrist. Just be aware the town is small and the wristband does identify where you are staying.
And a note about safety: while there is fear about traveling to Mexico, I have felt perfectly safe traveling solo as a woman to this island on three occasions now. When I asked many of the locals why they live on the island, they all said they felt “safe.” A contributing factor, I learned, is the presence of the Mexican navy base.
Price From: $95-120+ Cdn (inquire about rates and specials)
Who goes? Singles, couples and families.
Style/Character: beach-resort, bed & breakfast/European plan
Service/Staff: Friendly, resourceful, helpful, English-speaking staff – and they smiled a lot.
Rooms: Standard, suites and studios.
Food/Drink: A few restaurant and bar options.
Value for Money: yes
Women traveling solo-friendly: Yes. Consider not wearing the wristband and instead keeping it on your wallet and showing it when you are required to. Inquire about single supplements for hotel rooms.
Family-friendly: yes
Amenities: great for holding weddings, seminars, retreats or conferences, especially for women. There is an on-site spa/salon.
Disabled Access: yes
Local shopping: Lots of shopping is walking distance, in the town’s center.
Where to eat: In the town’s centre, check out Como-No (“Why Not?”), an inviting restaurant/bar that is owned/operated by Canadian Penny Deming, which has a terrific roof patio and entertainment. Barlito offers healthy, inexpensive food. La Luna is a spacious bar/restaurant (Canadian owned/operated).
What not to miss: The Mayan temple to the goddess Ixchel, on the south end of the island.
Nightlife: Check out La Luna Bar and Como-No (rooftop patio) in the town’s centre.
Reservations: http://avalonvacations.com/hotels/avalon_reef_isla_mujeres/
Location: north beach, Isla Mujeres, Mexico.
© Shannon Skinner 2012
