Hong Kong Transportation

A key to being a world-class city is having accessible transportation. Hong Kong transportation doesn’t disappoint with a variety of options that will get you to where you need to go. From the moment you land at the airport to the end of your trip you’ll have made it around Hong Kong with ease.

Please note that any times, prices, and currency conversions listed below are only correct for February 2016. For up-to-date pricing visit the Hong Kong transportation websites.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

You’ve landed at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), gone through customs, and retrieved your baggage. Now you’re wondering how you will get to your hotel. Just as you leave baggage claim you will find a helpful desk that sells tickets for the Airport Express. The Airport Express is a train that runs on a track with station stops at Asia World Expo, Airport, Tsing Yi, Kowloon, and Hong Kong. Travelers with hotel reservations in either Kowloon or Hong Kong Island will want to exit at the corresponding station stop. The best Airport Express ticket for tourists that are staying in Hong Kong for three or more days is the Airport Express Travel Pass. This pass allows for round trip passage between the airport and either Tsing Yi, Kowloon, or Hong Kong Stations. In addition, the pass includes three consecutive days of unlimited travel on the Mass Transit Railway (MTR). This pass is only available to tourists and the round trip passes costs $350 Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). With currency conversion that equals $45 United States Dollars (USD).

Once you have your Airport Express Travel Pass you will walk within the airport from baggage claim to the Airport Station. This short walk has you on your train in no time. Trains leave from the airport every 10-12 minutes and will have you in Central Hong Kong within 24 minutes. Another perk is that once you have arrived at either Kowloon or Hong Kong Station you can board free shuttle buses that will transport you to your hotel. Just read the signs for which bus line goes to your hotel, board the corresponding bus, and you are on your way. This same hotel shuttle is available for you to return to the train station to catch your return trip on the Airport Express.

Hong Kong’s Airport Express

Mass Transit Railway (MTR)

Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is fast, clean, and efficient. You will find stations throughout the city labeled in English and Chinese. With only five dedicated (color coded) subway lines the MTR makes it easy to get around Hong Kong without having to rely on taxi drivers. Signs posted throughout the MTR stations make it easy to decipher what direction you need to head to find your next train. For long distance destinations you transfer between train lines and walk to the correct platform. Station stops broadcast over loudspeakers within the trains in both English and Chinese so you won’t miss your stop. The only cautionary thing to keep in mind is that if possible avoid the MTR during peak commute times. During commute times so many people ride the MTR that you might be squished into trains. If you did not buy the Airport Express Travel Pass to ride the MTR you can buy tickets at the various MTR stations. If you plan on riding the MTR multiple times you can buy a one-day Adult Tourist Day Pass. The Adult Tourist Day Pass costs $65 HKD ($8.35 USD). A single ride ticket fare depends on the distance traveled and the cost ranges anywhere from $4 HKD ($0.50 US Cents) to $8.50 HKD ($1.10 USD).

Station sign for MTR, Mass Transit Railway

Star Ferry

The Star Ferry has just one purpose. It takes passengers between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon by sailing over the Victoria Harbour. Tourists will want to ride the Star Ferry at least once during their trip for the magnificent views offered crossing the harbor. Ferries run every 8-20 minutes depending on the time of day. A one-way adult ticket is $2.50 (HKD) on weekdays and $3.40 (HKD) on weekends and public holidays. Converted into USD the fare costs 32 Cents or 44 Cents. This low fare makes the Star Ferry one of the cheapest modes of Hong Kong transportation, and the cheapest way to get between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Keep in mind that the Star Ferry can get packed with locals and tourists alike during commute hours.

There are three main piers for the Star Ferry. The Star Ferry runs between the piers of Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui and between the piers of Central and Tsim Sha Tsui. Kowloon’s pier of Tsim Sha Tsui is within walking distance to Nathan Road and various shopping opportunities. The Hong Kong Island pier of Wan Chai is near the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. From Wan Chai Pier you can walk twenty-minutes to the Wan Chai District, where you will find many great restaurant choices. The Central Pier on Hong Kong Island is a short walk to the MTR Hong Kong Station if you need to get to other parts of the city. In addition, the Central Pier is where you will catch other ferries to any of the neighboring islands.

Star Ferry with Kowloon in the background

Star Ferry with Hong Kong Island in the background

Island Ferry

If time permits you may take one of the various Island Ferries to nearby islands. Passengers embark on these Island Ferries at the Central Piers (accessible from either Central or Hong Kong MTR Stations). Many of these boats take travelers to outlying islands where locals live. Islands of note that tourists may find interesting to visit include Cheung Chau and Lamma Island. The cost of a one-way adult fare depends on two factors and the first is the ferry you take (ordinary, deluxe, or fast). The second is if you travel Monday to Saturday or on a Sunday and Public Holiday. Regardless of the ferry or day you select, fares are still cheap. One-way fares range from $13.20 HKD ($1.70 USD) at the low-end and $37.20 HKD ($4.77 USD) at the high-end. One of the 10 piers serviced by Central Piers is the Star Ferry service to Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon.

Central Ferry Piers - Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, China

Central Ferry Piers on Hong Kong Island

Island Ferry for Hong Kong

Taxis

There are many taxicabs available to use as Hong Kong transportation. Depending on your destination taxi fares are cheap. With cheap fares you may find cab drivers won’t take you to your destination if isn’t far enough or worth their time. Short distances are best traveled by the MTR. If you plan on taking a taxi have your destination written in both English and Chinese characters. Many taxi drivers are not fluent in English so having the place written in Chinese will make it easier for you to get to your destination.

Line of taxis in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Transportation

loading map - please wait...

Airport Station at HKG: 22.316058, 113.936503

Kowloon Station: 22.304306, 114.161475

Hong Kong Station: 22.284681, 114.158177

Wan Chai Pier: 22.283391, 114.176217

Tsim Sha Tsui Pier: 22.293810, 114.168227

Central Piers: 22.287843, 114.157384

	Airport Station at HKG Hong Kong Transportation Airport Station, Hong Kong
	Kowloon Station Hong Kong Transportation Kowloon Station, Hong Kong
	Hong Kong Station Hong Kong Transportation Hong Kong Station, Hong Kong
	Wan Chai Pier Hong Kong Transportation Wan Chai Ferry Pier, Hong Kong
	Tsim Sha Tsui Pier Hong Kong Transportation Star Ferry Pier, Hong Kong
	Central Piers Hong Kong Transportation Central Piers, Hong Kong

Leave a comment

February 10, 2016 CB4YT

Central Ferry Piers, Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong Island - Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia

English-speaking travelers will find Hong Kong an accessible gateway to future travel through out Asia. Hong Kong was once a British colony and many who live in Hong Kong today speak English. With the language barrier removed Hong Kong is a perfect city for English-speaking travelers to acclimate to life in Asia. You will find signs and menus written in both English and Chinese. First time travelers will stick to the two main sections of Hong Kong, Kowloon in the north and to the south Hong Kong Island. Victoria Harbour separates Kowloon and Hong Kong Island and to sail across Victoria Harbour you will board the Star Ferry. Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is another way to travel between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. MTR is the fastest way to reach the parts of Hong Kong you will want to visit for sights, food, and shopping. The top two sights for Hong Kong are Victoria Harbour and Victoria Peak. Those who wish to shop can find stores in Kowloon’s Tsim Sha Tsui district and on the streets around and on Hennessy Road on Hong Kong Island.

View overlooking Convention Centre, Victoria Harbour, and Kowloon

Victoria Harbour

You will enjoy iconic views of Hong Kong while sailing across Victoria Harbour. As you sail through the harbor you’ll be able to take fantastic photos of the buildings on both the Kowloon side and the Hong Kong Island side. If you’re lucky a junk boat will pass by just as you’re snapping your photo to enhance the image. The easiest form of transportation across Victoria Harbour is on the Star Ferry. It is possible to traverse Victoria Harbour underground using the MTR but you won’t see the scenery traveling that way. The Star Ferry operates every 8-20 minutes depending on the time of day. So if you miss the ferry you know another one will be along soon. At the time of writing this article a one-way adult ticket was $2.50 Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) on weekdays and $3.40 HKD on weekends and public holidays. Converted into US currency that translates to 32 cents and 44 cents. This low fare makes the Star Ferry one of the cheapest modes of transportation in Hong Kong, and the cheapest way to get between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

Sailing over Victoria Harbour towards Hong Kong Island

Victoria Peak

Besides Victoria Harbour the other place in Hong Kong to take postcard worthy photos is atop Victoria Peak. The journey to the top of Victoria Peak is part of the sightseeing. From the MTR Central Station you take the J2 exit, which places you in the middle of Chater Garden, a garden surrounded by striking skyscrapers. From Chater Garden you will continue ahead up Garden Road. As you walk Garden Road you will pass St. John’s Cathedral. The Anglican cathedral may appear out-of-place in the middle of the financial district yet this simple cathedral is an oasis of peace. The cathedral is open to the public during the day unless a religious service is taking place. Continue on Garden Road from St. John’s Cathedral and follow the signs to the Peak Tram Terminus.

Exterior of St. John’s Cathedral

Doorway into St. John’s Cathedral

At the Peak Tram Terminus you will buy tickets to board the Peak Tram. The best ticket to buy is the round-trip Peak Tram Sky Pass, which allows you passage on the tram and access to the Sky Terrace 428. The Sky Terrace 428, located atop the Peak Tower, offers stunning panoramic views of Hong Kong. At the time of writing this article the round-trip Peak Tram Sky Pass for adults is HKD $83 (US $10.64). The Peak Tram operates everyday from 7am to 12-midnight and departs every 10-15 minutes. Both the Peak Tower and Sky Terrace 428 are open from 10am to 11pm (Monday through Friday) and 8am to 11pm (Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays).

Peak Tower on Victoria Peak

The Peak Tram can get full of tourists so the earlier you can arrive at the Terminus the more peaceful your journey will be. As you exit the Peak Tram you will find yourself right inside the Peak Tower. From here you will go either to the top of the building or outside to the ground level of Victoria Peak. There are shops and restaurants within the Peak Tower and nearby at the Peak Galleria. Within Peak Tower you will ascend multiple escalators to reach Sky Terrace 428. Once there you will see a magnificent view of Hong Kong. Included in the view is the financial and downtown district of Hong Kong Island you walked through to get to the Terminus. You will see a multitude of office buildings, housing, and in the distance Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. Once you’ve soaked in the scenery return to the Peak Tram and retrace your steps back to the MTR.

View From Victoria Peak

View From Sky Terrace 428 on top of Peak Tower on Victoria Peak

Shopping

In Kowloon shopping is king. Whether you arrive by ferry or subway the moment you disembark your form of transportation you will find yourself in front of a store. Begin either at the shopping centers of iSquare and Tsim Sha Tsui Centre & Empire Centre or by walking Nathan Road with its many stores. In the evening the Temple Street Night Market comes alive in the streets on and surrounding Jordan and Yau Ma Tei.

The entirety of this shopping goodness is in the Tsim Sha Tsui district of Kowloon. This is a mecca for shoppers looking to buy tailored suits or watches. If you are traveling to Hong Kong with the express intention of purchasing tailored clothing or jewelry you must do your research before your visit. Tourists are easy prey for con artists selling inferior products. Prior to your trip use the Internet to find reputable businesses to make sure the products you buy are of high quality and will last you a lifetime. As for the pushy sales people on the streets just smile and say “no thank you” as you walk by them.

Sometimes the hustle and bustle of Tsim Sha Tsui is too much to handle. For a reprieve and a chance to escape the crowds duck into Kowloon Park, located just off of Nathan Road. This large public park has trees, a garden, and a playground for children. On Sunday enjoy a free demonstration of Kung Fu or a lion dance. Decompress in this sanctuary of serenity before reentering the throng of people on Nathan Road.

Times Square shopping center in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Island

On the other side of Victoria Harbour, concentrated in the eastern part of Hennessy Road, is the shopping on Hong Kong Island. This section of shopping is accessible from the Causeway Bay MTR Station. Here you will find the Times Square shopping center and stores throughout the many streets leading off of Hennessy Road. Farther south on Hong Kong Island is the outdoor Stanley Market. Stanley Market is a tourist trap but even so it makes for a great place to find souvenirs for your loved ones.

Hong Kong Sights

loading map - please wait...

Victoria Harbour: 22.287826, 114.174385

St. John\'s Cathedral: 22.278691, 114.159750

Peak Tram Lower Terminus: 22.278069, 114.159554

Victoria Peak / Victoria Tower / Sky Terrace 428: 22.275883, 114.145532

Nathan Road (Kowloon Shopping): 22.310549, 114.171156

Kowloon Park: 22.298716, 114.171936

Hennessy Road (Hong Kong Island Shopping): 22.279765, 114.182689

Stanley Market: 22.219052, 114.212853

	Victoria Harbour Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong
	St. John's Cathedral Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia St. John's Cathedral, Hong Kong
	Peak Tram Lower Terminus Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus, Hong Kong
	Victoria Peak / Victoria Tower / Sky Terrace 428 Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Victoria Peak, The Peak, Hong Kong
	Nathan Road (Kowloon Shopping) Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Nathan Road, Hong Kong
	Kowloon Park Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Kowloon Park, Hong Kong
	Hennessy Road (Hong Kong Island Shopping) Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Times Square, Hong Kong
	Stanley Market Hong Kong: A Gateway To Asia Stanley Market, Hong Kong

Leave a comment

February 5, 2016 CB4YT

Featured Photo, Victoria Harbour - Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, China

Travel As A Local

When we travel sometimes it’s as if we never left home, what with the buildings being different but the corporate logos being the same. Crave a hamburger and you need only find the golden arches of McDonald’s. Need caffeine and Starbucks can fulfill your wish. Forgot to pack your favorite top and you can buy the same shirt at the Gap. This familiarity makes it easy to avoid the local scene. Yet why spend your hard-earned money traveling to another state or country just to buy what you could at home. By using the Internet and talking to people you meet along the way you can escape globalization and travel as a local.

Local Lodging

Hotel Monaco is a boutique hotel in Portland, Oregon

The easiest route in booking a hotel is to stay with a brand you’re familiar with, such as Hilton or Sheraton. The downside to this approach is that these well-known hotels carry a hefty price tag. Unless you’re willing to stay in out-of-the-way locations such as near the airport. The name brand hotels often lack charm and regardless which part of the world you have traveled to each location is the same.

There are other alternatives and sites such as Hotels.com can help you discover local hotels or boutique hotels, such as Hotel Monaco in Portland. Other websites such as VRBO and Airbnb have listings for vacation rentals such as bed & breakfasts or apartments. By staying at these places you can imitate a local’s way of life. Be sure to cross-reference any lodgings you are thinking of staying at with websites such as TripAdvisor. You can read reviews by past occupants to make sure the lodging is up to your standards and is in a safe location of the city.

Local Meals

Aside from sightseeing the biggest thing for tourists to do is eat the local cuisine. Still, fears of eating something you’re not familiar with can lead you to slipping back to your default and eating at restaurant franchises you can find at home. This can happen if you’re tired and don’t want to figure out where to eat. If you do this then you’ll be missing out on amazing new food experiences. The best thing to do is to research places to eat before you even leave on your trip. With a list of places to eat throughout the city you will have a restaurant choice no matter where you are in the city during the day. When hunger strikes you can eat at one of the many restaurants you’ve pre-selected.

The easiest way to avoid fast food chains is by using websites such as TripAdvisor, Yelp, and similar region specific ratings websites. These websites will include both tourist and local reviews. You’ll know which restaurants serve good food, based on reviews from other travelers and people who live in those cities and eat at those restaurants regularly. Don’t be afraid to use a search engine such as Google to find websites and blogs of travelers and use their suggestions on where to dine. Another suggestion is when you check into your hotel ask the staff for recommendations. The hotel workers live in the city and will have recommendations for the best restaurants on any budget.

Food purchased at local market - Nice, France

Food purchased at local market in Nice, France

An alternative is to skip the restaurant and visit a local farmer’s market or grocery store for a meal you can bring back to your hotel. A sampling of local bread, cheeses, meats, fruits, vegetables, and candies can turn into one of your most memorable meals. If you are traveling with checked luggage bring a bottle opener with you to use on an alcoholic beverage. A local beer or wine from the market will enhance your hotel picnic even more. Cities such as Nice in France are perfect for such meals. You can dine in the comfort of your hotel room on local delicacies such as foie gras, comté, and salami. Pair your food with a slice of fresh baguette and a glass of French wine for a delicious meal.

Local Shopping

Pedestrian zone with stores and restaurants - Bern, Switzerland

Pedestrian zone with stores and restaurants in Bern, Switzerland

Chances are you packed more clothes than you’ll ever need for your trip in your suitcase. It’s human nature to over pack. What’s unfortunate is that the heavy suitcase you’re now lugging over town and over cobblestones has made you crazy. The next time you travel, consider not filling up your entire suitcase. Pack enough clothes to begin your journey and buy the rest of your clothes.

Pedestrian only zones, such as those found in Bern (Switzerland), are great places to find local brands of clothing. Shopping while on vacation is an adventure and it will help freshen up your wardrobe. Plus the clothing you wear will resemble the clothes the local population wears. If you wear local attire it allows you to blend in and trick the locals into thinking you aren’t a tourist. In addition clothes make a great personal souvenir and when your friend asks you where you bought that article of clothing you’ll be happy to tell them where.

When using your credit card if the store, or restaurant, asks if you wish to pay in your home currency versus the local currency always select the local currency. If you choose to pay in your home currency you may find your credit card company will charge you additional service fees. The service fees will be on top of getting the worst currency exchange rate possible for that day. Save yourself money and pay in local currency every chance you get.

Leave a comment

January 29, 2016 CB4YT

St. James's Park - London, England (Photograph from the website: Check Before You Trek)

Eat Your Way Through Portland

Portland is a food lover’s paradise. There are so many varieties of cuisine throughout the city for you to indulge your stomach. From fusions to classics to new age there’s a dish for everyone. After visiting Portland when your stomach grumbles you’ll know what it’s trying to say is, “take me back to Portland, I want to eat!”

Portland Mornings

Voodoo doll doughnut at Voodoo Doughnut

A motto of Portland’s is “Keep Portland Weird”. A way to experience that weirdness both in visual form and with your taste buds is by stopping over at Voodoo Doughnut. Visitors line up early at either of Voodoo Doughnut’s two Portland locations to buy theses tasty pastries. Both locations open late so you can satisfy your doughnut craving from morning to night. There are over fifty doughnuts to choose from and the doughnuts run the gamut from the extreme to the classics. The namesake doughnut is the “Voodoo Doll” doughnut. This doughnut is in the shape of a person with a pretzel stick jutting out just as a pin on an actual voodoo doll. Another fan favorite is the “Bacon Maple Bar” doughnut. Other popular items are the various cereal-topped doughnuts such as “Captain my Captain” (Captain Crunch) or “The Loop” (Fruit Loops). Keep in mind that transactions are cash only, so bring money and not your credit cards. The original location, Voodoo Doughnut ONE, is next to Caffe Vita. Caffe Vita is a coffee stand that serves coffee and other beverages for those needing a drink to go with the doughnuts.

Breakfast at Pine State Biscuits

For those that prefer a heartier meal head over to Pine State Biscuits for breakfast. Fresh buttermilk biscuits can be ordered plain, with a spread such as jam, or as a sandwich. The biscuit sandwiches include a breakfast favorite made with biscuit, cheese, egg, and your choice of meat (bacon, country ham, sausage, fried chicken, or steak). Other biscuit sandwiches include a chicken club and a BBQ biscuit, meaning you could eat at Pine State Biscuit for each meal of the day.

Portland Food Trucks

Waffle from Gaufre Gourmet

In Europe every Christmas a multitude of cities break out market stalls serving such delicacies as mulled wines, warm dishes with cheeses as its main ingredients, and desserts a plenty. The problem is that these markets only appear in December. In Portland food stalls are open every month of the year. Although these stalls are stationary and don’t truck anywhere they are called food trucks. There are plenty of choices to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Sprawled throughout the city in clusters no one food truck is the same. You may find the same style of cuisine, for instance, a few Vietnamese food trucks. Except each truck must offer something different from its regional cuisine neighbor. This means that one Vietnamese truck may sell pho while the other focuses on selling only rice plates. Ensuring no two food trucks are alike means so many choices your stomach may get full just thinking of the sheer enormity of everything it could consume. The best thing to do is to dig right in and pick whatever fits your fancy. One example of a great food truck is The Gaufre Gourmet. They serve up a Belgian style waffle that will satisfy your sweet or savory tooth.

Portland Dining

Seoul Sliders at KOi Fusion

For those that prefer to sit while eating Portland offers great restaurant choices. KOi Fusion has both food truck locations and indoor locations. One of their indoor locations is shared with a couple other eateries and has plenty of seating available. KOi Fusion serves up Mexican-Korean fusion dishes that rival similar food trucks and restaurants found in the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles. Choose from tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and even sliders. These dishes are made with your choice of meats such as bulgogi, kalbi, chicken, or pork. The “Seoul Sliders” with bulgogi BBQ beef on a soft bread bun with zesty coleslaw is a feast for the senses.

Burger and Fries at Lardo

For the hog fanatic, Lardo serves up an assortment of hog cuts on scrumptious bread rolls filled with fancy spreads. These aren’t your average sandwiches with offerings such as the “Double Burger” made with porkstrami. Lardo’s menu includes a “Pork Meatball Banh Mi” and a “Griddled Mortadella” sandwich with provolone. Lardo’s “Pho’rench Dip” sandwich is made from the same ingredients found in a bowl of Vietnamese pho. If you are looking for a classic sandwich order the “Porchetta” sandwich. There are three Lardo locations in Portland each of which serves up various sandwiches, fries, and beers.

Chicken wings at Pok Pok

Those wishing for more of a romantic dinner setting will want to eat at Toro Bravo. The ambience is low light and the wood tables evoke a warm and comforting vibe. With a rotating menu of Spanish style tapas it’s possible to never have the same meal at Toro Bravo twice. Another great restaurant worth making time for is Pok Pok. This restaurant serves a variety of Thai dishes. The restaurant staple is their chicken wings a dish that has become so popular that travelers come to Portland just to eat them.

Portland Drinks

Beer tasting flight at Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB)

With so much food consumption one undertakes in Portland it makes for a thirst that must be quenched. Portland doesn’t disappoint in that regard either, having many coffee shops, ranging from chains and local joints. Besides coffee Portland is home to more breweries than any other city in the entire world. With so many to choose from selecting just one brewery to visit is hard. If you have to a good choice is HUB, which stands for Hopworks Urban Brewery. What sets HUB apart is that is serves organic beers at both of their two locations. An item on the beer menu is their flight of ten beers, a way to sample the various beers brewed by HUB. HUB is not just for adults but a place you can bring the whole family. Their locations include a restaurant that serves pub fare such as chicken wings, burgers, and pizzas.

View of the surrounding area of De Ponte Cellars

Besides beer Oregon is well known for the wine produced in the state. In just over an hour from the city center of Portland you will find a few of Oregon’s best wineries. Top wineries include De Ponte Cellars, Domaine Drouhin, and WillaKenzie Estate. At each of these locations you’ll find full-bodied pinots and crisp whites wines. These wines are sipped in tasting rooms that overlook gorgeous views of vineyards, trees, and on cloud free days even Mount Hood. The tall magnificent trees that are found throughout the Pacific Northwest adds a special quality to the experience of wine tasting in Oregon. You won’t see trees of this kind wine tasting in places such as Napa or the Loire Valley, so soak it in during your visit.

Portland, Oregon

loading map - please wait...

Portland Building: 45.515663, -122.678500

Pearl District: 45.530209, -122.681204

Downtown, Portland: 45.513454, -122.680134

Pioneer Courthouse Square: 45.518300, -122.678905

Chinatown Gates: 45.523512, -122.674157

Washington Park: 45.512640, -122.712736

International Rose Garden: 45.518951, -122.705273

Portland Japanese Garden: 45.519136, -122.706780

Multnomah Falls: 45.576160, -122.115776

Wahkeena Falls: 45.574181, -122.127430

Vista House on Crown Point: 45.539579, -122.244446

Voodoo Doughnut ONE (original location): 45.522621, -122.673111

Caffe Vita: 45.522447, -122.672914

Pine State Biscuits: 45.558886, -122.642744

Gaufre Gourmet: 45.521057, -122.680316

KOi Fusion: 45.450419, -122.781197

Lardo: 45.522021, -122.683540

Toro Bravo: 45.540813, -122.663611

Pok Pok: 45.504565, -122.632159

Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB): 45.496893, -122.634884

De Ponte Cellars: 45.262715, -123.058269

Domaine Drouhin: 45.265540, -123.055634

WillaKenzie Estate: 45.360877, -123.137926

	Portland Building Portland: Keeping it Normal Portland Building, Portland, OR, United States
	Pearl District Portland: Keeping it Normal Pearl District, Portland, OR, United States
	Downtown, Portland Portland: Keeping it Normal Downtown, Portland, OR, United States
	Pioneer Courthouse Square Portland: Keeping it Normal Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, OR, United States
	Chinatown Gates Portland: Keeping it Normal Chinatown Gates Portland, Northwest 4th Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Washington Park Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Washington Park, Portland, OR, United States
	International Rose Garden Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland International Rose Test Garden, Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Portland Japanese Garden Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Portland Japanese Garden, Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Multnomah Falls Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Multnomah Falls, Multnomah County, OR, United States
	Wahkeena Falls Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Wahkeena Falls, Multnomah County, OR, United States
	Vista House on Crown Point Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Vista House, Historic Columbia River Highway, Corbett, OR, United States
	Voodoo Doughnut ONE (original location) Eat Your Way Through Portland Voodoo Doughnut, Southwest 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Caffe Vita Eat Your Way Through Portland Caffe Vita, Southwest 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Pine State Biscuits Eat Your Way Through Portland Pine State Biscuits Alberta, Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Gaufre Gourmet Eat Your Way Through Portland Gaufre Gourmet, Southwest 9th Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	KOi Fusion Eat Your Way Through Portland Washington Square, Southwest Washington Square Road, Portland, OR, United States
	Lardo Eat Your Way Through Portland Lardo, Southwest Washington Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Toro Bravo Eat Your Way Through Portland Toro Bravo, Northeast Russell Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Pok Pok Eat Your Way Through Portland Pok Pok, Southeast Division Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB) Eat Your Way Through Portland Hopworks Urban Brewery, Southeast Powell Boulevard, Portland, OR, United States
	De Ponte Cellars Eat Your Way Through Portland De Ponte Cellars, Northeast Archery Summit Road, Dayton, OR, United States
	Domaine Drouhin Eat Your Way Through Portland Domaine Drouhin Oregon, Dayton, OR, United States
	WillaKenzie Estate Eat Your Way Through Portland WillaKenzie Estate, Northeast Laughlin Road, Yamhill, OR, United States

Leave a comment

January 22, 2016 CB4YT

View from the tasting center at WillaKenzie Estate - Yamhill, Oregon

Natural Portland

Oregon’s city of Portland and the surrounding towns have much to offer both the active and passive nature lovers. Within walking distance from the city center is Washington Park. Washington Park includes the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden. To experience even more of natural Portland within driving distance is Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena Falls, and Vista House on Crown Point.

Washington Park

By car Washington Park is a ten-minute drive from the Downtown district of Portland. It is a thirty-minute walk from the center of Portland to the section of Washington Park that leads to the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden. The walk is uphill and a great workout, and if you’ve walked the hills in San Francisco before the walk won’t be a challenge. The walk is an opportunity to see quaint residential homes along the way. After walking through the nice neighborhoods at the top of the hills you’ll find yourself at the intersection of SW Park Place and SW Lewis Clark Way. The entrance found here into Washington Park will lead you into the midst of sprawling trees and a playground. Washington Park has plenty of attractions such as the Oregon Zoo, an arboretum, children’s museum, memorials, and gardens.

Statue of Sacajawea and her son Jean-Baptiste found in Washington Park

International Rose Test Garden

One of the main attractions of Washington Park is the International Rose Test Garden. This is the oldest public garden of its kind in the United States. The garden has over 500 varieties of roses and more than 7,000 plantings. This section of the park is free for visitors so you can spend whatever time you want during the garden’s open hours strolling through the various roses. Your experience of the roses will differ depending on the time of year you visit. Fall and winter months the garden does not offer much in the way of roses. Visit the garden during the spring and summer months and the roses will be in full bloom.

International Rose Test Garden in winter

International Rose Test Garden in summer

Portland Japanese Garden

Next to the International Rose Test Garden is the Portland Japanese Garden. To access this sight you will need to pay an entrance fee but what you pay is well worth the cost. The Japanese Gardens are well manicured and offer a different natural Portland experience depending on the season and weather. In the wintertime the frost and snow settles along the various rocks, plants, and statues. During the fall months the turning of the leaves creates a colorful landscape. Spring and summer the plants are green and vivid. Wander the various lanes past ponds full of koi, small waterfalls, and rock gardens. The Japanese Garden has a lookout point with a magnificent view of Portland’s city skyline and Mount Hood. Please note that according to their website the Japanese Garden is closed from September 8, 2015 until March 1, 2016 due to construction for their Cultural Crossing expansion project. While the Japanese Garden itself will re-open in March the Cultural Crossing expansion construction will continue with an estimated completion of Spring 2017.

Portland Japanese Garden in winter

Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls

Natural Portland wonders include beautiful waterfalls. Multnomah Falls is a forty-minute drive from either Downtown Portland or Portland International Airport (PDX). The drive is worthwhile especially since it’s one of the few places in the world where one can drive up to a waterfall. There is no need to hike any trails since the parking lot is a short walk to where you can see the waterfall in its glory. A short non-strenuous walk up to a bridge offers a closer view of the waterfall. In the wintertime you will need to be cautious walking as icy conditions may cause you to loose your footing. A mile away from Multnomah Falls is Wahkeena Falls. The easily accessible part of Wahkeena Falls isn’t as dramatic as Multnomah Falls, but is a more rambling waterfall. Although Wahkeena is not a plunging waterfall the water with the trees and plants is worth a photograph. For more spectacular views of Wahkeena Falls hikers may walk the mile round-trip on the Wahkeena Trail.

Multnomah Falls

Wahkeena Falls

Vista House on Crown Point

On the way to Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls be sure to stop at Vista House on Crown Point. This spectacular lookout is located thirty-five minutes from Downtown Portland and offers stunning views of natural Portland. Part of the Oregon State Parks, the Vista House has existed since the early 1900s. This observatory is located over 700 feet above the Columbia River and offers breathtaking views. Regardless if the weather is over cast or sunny this location is ideal for photographs. Be advised that if the weather has been extreme, for example too much snow has fallen, Crown Point may be closed off to tourists. On such days call ahead or visit their website to find out if the lookout is open.

Vista House at Crown Point

View of the Columbia River from Vista House at Crown Point

Portland, Oregon

loading map - please wait...

Portland Building: 45.515663, -122.678500

Pearl District: 45.530209, -122.681204

Downtown, Portland: 45.513454, -122.680134

Pioneer Courthouse Square: 45.518300, -122.678905

Chinatown Gates: 45.523512, -122.674157

Washington Park: 45.512640, -122.712736

International Rose Garden: 45.518951, -122.705273

Portland Japanese Garden: 45.519136, -122.706780

Multnomah Falls: 45.576160, -122.115776

Wahkeena Falls: 45.574181, -122.127430

Vista House on Crown Point: 45.539579, -122.244446

Voodoo Doughnut ONE (original location): 45.522621, -122.673111

Caffe Vita: 45.522447, -122.672914

Pine State Biscuits: 45.558886, -122.642744

Gaufre Gourmet: 45.521057, -122.680316

KOi Fusion: 45.450419, -122.781197

Lardo: 45.522021, -122.683540

Toro Bravo: 45.540813, -122.663611

Pok Pok: 45.504565, -122.632159

Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB): 45.496893, -122.634884

De Ponte Cellars: 45.262715, -123.058269

Domaine Drouhin: 45.265540, -123.055634

WillaKenzie Estate: 45.360877, -123.137926

	Portland Building Portland: Keeping it Normal Portland Building, Portland, OR, United States
	Pearl District Portland: Keeping it Normal Pearl District, Portland, OR, United States
	Downtown, Portland Portland: Keeping it Normal Downtown, Portland, OR, United States
	Pioneer Courthouse Square Portland: Keeping it Normal Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, OR, United States
	Chinatown Gates Portland: Keeping it Normal Chinatown Gates Portland, Northwest 4th Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Washington Park Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Washington Park, Portland, OR, United States
	International Rose Garden Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland International Rose Test Garden, Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Portland Japanese Garden Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Portland Japanese Garden, Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Multnomah Falls Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Multnomah Falls, Multnomah County, OR, United States
	Wahkeena Falls Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Wahkeena Falls, Multnomah County, OR, United States
	Vista House on Crown Point Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Vista House, Historic Columbia River Highway, Corbett, OR, United States
	Voodoo Doughnut ONE (original location) Eat Your Way Through Portland Voodoo Doughnut, Southwest 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Caffe Vita Eat Your Way Through Portland Caffe Vita, Southwest 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Pine State Biscuits Eat Your Way Through Portland Pine State Biscuits Alberta, Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Gaufre Gourmet Eat Your Way Through Portland Gaufre Gourmet, Southwest 9th Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	KOi Fusion Eat Your Way Through Portland Washington Square, Southwest Washington Square Road, Portland, OR, United States
	Lardo Eat Your Way Through Portland Lardo, Southwest Washington Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Toro Bravo Eat Your Way Through Portland Toro Bravo, Northeast Russell Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Pok Pok Eat Your Way Through Portland Pok Pok, Southeast Division Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB) Eat Your Way Through Portland Hopworks Urban Brewery, Southeast Powell Boulevard, Portland, OR, United States
	De Ponte Cellars Eat Your Way Through Portland De Ponte Cellars, Northeast Archery Summit Road, Dayton, OR, United States
	Domaine Drouhin Eat Your Way Through Portland Domaine Drouhin Oregon, Dayton, OR, United States
	WillaKenzie Estate Eat Your Way Through Portland WillaKenzie Estate, Northeast Laughlin Road, Yamhill, OR, United States

Leave a comment

January 15, 2016 CB4YT

Portland: Keeping it Normal

"Put a Bird on It" (from the IFC show Portlandia) - Bird wallpaper found in a Portland hotel - Portland, Oregon

“Put a Bird on It” (quote from the IFC show Portlandia) – Bird wallpaper found in a Portland hotel

In the Pacific Northwest region of the United States is the city of Portland, in the state of Oregon. If your only experience of Portland is the IFC show Portlandia you may have a skewed perception of the city. The city’s unofficial motto is “Keep Portland Weird” and Portlandia does a good job of depicting Portland as a weird city. Portlandia’s characters in various sketches range from cultist organic farmers to cranky feminist bookstore owners to those who put a bird on everything. Tourists who’ve watched the show Portlandia before heading to Portland for the first time may think they will enter a land of misfits once they arrive.

Buildings surrounding Pioneer Square

The truth is first time visitors will find Portland quirky, charming, and nuanced. The city itself is clean with air that is refreshing, albeit sometimes breezy. Portland exudes scenery everywhere being surrounded by the best nature offers in this part of the world. Besides nature the city is a foodie paradise. Restaurants offer top-notch cuisine and a plethora of food trucks stationed throughout the city will make sure you will always have a sumptuous bite to eat. For lovers of food and nature Portland will find a special place in your heart.

Portlandia statue on the Portland Building

Beyond the food and nature Portland’s city itself does not boast many sights. This works for the city because travelers can just enjoy being in the city and not rushing off trying to knock of a laundry list of sights. Of the sights within the city tourists will want to visit the Portland Building. The statue in front of the Portland Building is named Portlandia. It is this statue’s name from which the Portlandia show borrows its name and the statue is seen in the show’s opening credits. Besides the Portland Building visitors can spend the day in trendy shopping areas such as those found in the Pearl District and Downtown. The streets in these areas are not bustling with crowds, and the wide avenues make for a nice stroll. While in Downtown visit Pioneer Courthouse Square. This urban park holds a variety of events and is a perfect place to people watch.

Pioneer Courthouse

To stay at a hotel in the Downtown district of Portland means walking access to the shopping areas around Pioneer Courthouse Square. You will be able to walk to various food truck stands within the city limits. Besides shopping and food within walking distance is Portland’s Chinatown and Washington Park. Within Washington Park you will find the International Rose Test Garden and the Portland Japanese Garden.

Chinatown Gates

To experience more of Portland and the surrounding landscape you will need to rent a car. A rental car will expand the number of restaurants available for you to try as many great restaurants are in the districts outside of Downtown. Having a rental car will allow you the freedom to explore nature spots accessible by car. Within driving distance are two waterfalls, Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls. You can drive to the Vista House on Crown Point for scenic views of the Columbia River. Fans of wine will want to use that rental car to visit the various near by wineries.

Whatever you plan to do on your trip to Portland just remember, you are in the Pacific Northwest. If you travel to this region during the wintertime the weather will be low with a chance for snow. Even during the spring and summer times the weather may be brisk. Check the weather reports before you travel so your clothing choices won’t impede you enjoying your trip.

Portland, Oregon

loading map - please wait...

Portland Building: 45.515663, -122.678500

Pearl District: 45.530209, -122.681204

Downtown, Portland: 45.513454, -122.680134

Pioneer Courthouse Square: 45.518300, -122.678905

Chinatown Gates: 45.523512, -122.674157

Washington Park: 45.512640, -122.712736

International Rose Garden: 45.518951, -122.705273

Portland Japanese Garden: 45.519136, -122.706780

Multnomah Falls: 45.576160, -122.115776

Wahkeena Falls: 45.574181, -122.127430

Vista House on Crown Point: 45.539579, -122.244446

Voodoo Doughnut ONE (original location): 45.522621, -122.673111

Caffe Vita: 45.522447, -122.672914

Pine State Biscuits: 45.558886, -122.642744

Gaufre Gourmet: 45.521057, -122.680316

KOi Fusion: 45.450419, -122.781197

Lardo: 45.522021, -122.683540

Toro Bravo: 45.540813, -122.663611

Pok Pok: 45.504565, -122.632159

Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB): 45.496893, -122.634884

De Ponte Cellars: 45.262715, -123.058269

Domaine Drouhin: 45.265540, -123.055634

WillaKenzie Estate: 45.360877, -123.137926

	Portland Building Portland: Keeping it Normal Portland Building, Portland, OR, United States
	Pearl District Portland: Keeping it Normal Pearl District, Portland, OR, United States
	Downtown, Portland Portland: Keeping it Normal Downtown, Portland, OR, United States
	Pioneer Courthouse Square Portland: Keeping it Normal Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, OR, United States
	Chinatown Gates Portland: Keeping it Normal Chinatown Gates Portland, Northwest 4th Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Washington Park Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Washington Park, Portland, OR, United States
	International Rose Garden Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland International Rose Test Garden, Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Portland Japanese Garden Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Portland Japanese Garden, Southwest Kingston Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Multnomah Falls Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Multnomah Falls, Multnomah County, OR, United States
	Wahkeena Falls Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Wahkeena Falls, Multnomah County, OR, United States
	Vista House on Crown Point Portland: Keeping it Normal Natural Portland Vista House, Historic Columbia River Highway, Corbett, OR, United States
	Voodoo Doughnut ONE (original location) Eat Your Way Through Portland Voodoo Doughnut, Southwest 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Caffe Vita Eat Your Way Through Portland Caffe Vita, Southwest 3rd Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	Pine State Biscuits Eat Your Way Through Portland Pine State Biscuits Alberta, Northeast Alberta Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Gaufre Gourmet Eat Your Way Through Portland Gaufre Gourmet, Southwest 9th Avenue, Portland, OR, United States
	KOi Fusion Eat Your Way Through Portland Washington Square, Southwest Washington Square Road, Portland, OR, United States
	Lardo Eat Your Way Through Portland Lardo, Southwest Washington Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Toro Bravo Eat Your Way Through Portland Toro Bravo, Northeast Russell Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Pok Pok Eat Your Way Through Portland Pok Pok, Southeast Division Street, Portland, OR, United States
	Hopworks Urban Brewery (HUB) Eat Your Way Through Portland Hopworks Urban Brewery, Southeast Powell Boulevard, Portland, OR, United States
	De Ponte Cellars Eat Your Way Through Portland De Ponte Cellars, Northeast Archery Summit Road, Dayton, OR, United States
	Domaine Drouhin Eat Your Way Through Portland Domaine Drouhin Oregon, Dayton, OR, United States
	WillaKenzie Estate Eat Your Way Through Portland WillaKenzie Estate, Northeast Laughlin Road, Yamhill, OR, United States

Leave a comment

January 8, 2016 CB4YT

London Holiday Travels

Christmas tree in front of St. Paul’s Cathedral

Those of us who are able to revisit countries we’ve visited before are fortunate. Each revisit brings with it a renewed interest in that country. Of course that first trip will always hold a special place in your memories. The next visit may not have that same emotional punch but it may hold even greater surprises. A first time visit often means a hectic itinerary rushing to and from sights and eateries, with nary a break for rest. Follow up trips means that you won’t have that same necessity to see the requisite sights again. You certainly may but there won’t be the same crunch on your time.

National Gallery

Another visit means exploring areas of the city you didn’t get a chance to the first time. You’re able to eat at different restaurants, or try something else on the menu at a favorite restaurant. The biggest gift in revisiting a country is the opportunity to experience the cities in new ways. Spend time in local coffee shops or parks or even go grocery shopping. Stroll the streets and get in sync with the ebb and flow of the city and how the residents spend their time living there.

Deer in front of Covent Garden Market

An especially stark contrast is to visit the same city during different times of the year. Doing so can bring an entirely new perspective on a city you thought you knew. You can see how the locals relax under the summer sun versus how they handle snow in the winter. This holds especially true during the winter holiday season as cities are decked out in their festive best. City squares are filled with Christmas market stalls and monuments are decorated.

London Eye Lights

London in December is particularly filled with holiday cheer. Many of the streets, including those leading into Piccadilly Circus, are dressed up in holiday lights and signs. St. Paul’s Cathedral has two Christmas trees, one on each side of the Cathedral. A large tree adorned with lights is lit up in front of the National Gallery as well. Covent Garden Market has a giant topiary reindeer to get visitors into the holiday spirit.

Fireworks and the London Eye

This festive cheer culminates in a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration. The best viewing areas are by The Houses of Parliament and Elizabeth Tower (often referred to as Big Ben) and across the riverbank from the London Eye. Along the riverbank are crowds of happy people partying and dancing to music being pumped out on large speakers by local disc jockeys. It is behind the London Eye that an array of fireworks is fired into the night’s sky for a dazzling display at the strike of midnight. After the fireworks show the city of London does a nice job of ushering out the crowds through specific streets and back safely to their hotels and homes. To view London through the lens of the holidays gives visitors a newfound appreciation of this wonderful city.

Wherever in the world you may be celebrating, Check Before You Trek wishes you a very happy holiday and a happy new year! May your next year be full of travels to both new and familiar locations!

London During the Holidays

loading map - please wait...

St. Pauls\' Cathedral: 51.513845, -0.098351

National Gallery: 51.508929, -0.128299

Covent Garden Market: 51.511732, -0.123270

Houses of Parliament: 51.499629, -0.124648

The London Eye: 51.503324, -0.119543

Piccadilly Circus: 51.510101, -0.134661

	St. Pauls' Cathedral London Holiday Travels St.Pauls' Cathedral, London, United Kingdom
	National Gallery London Holiday Travels National Gallery, London, United Kingdom
	Covent Garden Market London Holiday Travels Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom
	Houses of Parliament London Holiday Travels Houses of Parliament, London, United Kingdom
	The London Eye London Holiday Travels London Eye, London, United Kingdom
	Piccadilly Circus London Holiday Travels Piccadilly Circus, London, United Kingdom

Leave a comment

December 30, 2015 CB4YT

Christmas Carol sign in Piccadilly Circus - London, England

Oxford, Part Two

Continued from Oxford, Part One

Tom Tower and Tom Quad at Christ Church

Once you’ve eaten and shopped your way out of Covered Market the walking tour will have you continue on towards St. Martin’s Tower. The locals refer to this monument as Carfax Tower. From here you will head to one of the most popular locations, Christ Church Cathedral and College. The current popularity stems from the fact that various parts of Christ Church were the inspiration for, or actual film locations, for the Harry Potter series. You’ll first pass by Tom Tower, created by the famed English architect Sir Christopher Michael Wren, as you make your way to the entrance to the Christ Church Meadow. The path to the Christ Church Meadow is through the War Memorial Garden. After exiting the War Memorial Garden to your left will be the public entrance to buy tickets into Christ Church.

Turf Tavern

Your ticket gains you access into the Tom Quad, The Great Hall, and the Cathedral. Harry Potter fans will recognize The Great Hall as the inspiration for the dining hall at Hogwarts. Once inside the Cathedral you will want to pick up their pamphlet, “A Brief Tour of the Cathedral”, as it highlights the main points of interest inside the Cathedral. Once done inside take a moment in Tom Quad to soak in your surroundings and breathe in the same air as the Oxford intelligentsia. After Christ Church the walking tour takes you past the Botanic Gardens, which has its own admissions price. You will see other colleges such as Corpus Christ, Merton, and Magdalen. On New College Lane you will see a bridge that connects two parts of Hertford College. This bridge is known as the Bridge of Sighs, a reference to the bridge of the same name in Venice.

Lamb and Flag Passage

At this point in your journey you may have a hankering for a pint or pub food. Near the Bridge of Sighs is the famous Turf Tavern, which offers a self-described “education in intoxication”. On a sign by the tavern are the words “If you’ve been to Oxford before, without visiting the Turf, then you haven’t really visited Oxford”. Even famous people have visited the Turf Tavern such as Elizabeth Taylor, Margaret Thatcher, and Ben Kingsley. The Turf Tavern boasts high quality cask ales fresh from the tap. If available be sure to try a pint of the Damson Porter, a smooth on the palate dark beer. If the pub fare at Turf Tavern doesn’t pique your interest head to nearby Holywell Street and The Alternative Tuck Shop. At The Alternative Tuck Shop sandwiches are made to order for takeaway. The chicken tikka with mango chutney on a baguette isn’t spicy but cool and refreshing.

Peek Kai Tod Kraiem at Chiang Mai Kitchen

From Holywell Street you will resume your walking tour on Parks Road. You will pass by Wadham College, University Museum, Pitt Rivers Museum of Ethnology, and Keble College. From there the tour will take you through the Lamb and Flag Passage, a tranquil passageway that is charming. Try to capture a peaceful moment in this section of Oxford. If time permits before leaving Oxford you can head back near Covered Market, to the pedestrian zone on Cornmarket Street. Here you can spend time at a coffee shop or explore such stores as H&M, Moss, or Zara. If you decide to have dinner in Oxford try Chiang Mai Kitchen. This authentic Thai restaurant serves up delicious dishes such as Peek Kai Tod Kraiem. Peek Kai Tod Kraiem is a plate of chicken wings fried and slathered with a Thai sweet and spicy sauce. Traditional dishes of Pad Thai and Thai Curry are tasty. At this point your day in Oxford is over and you will walk back to the train station and onwards to your next destination.

Oxford

loading map - please wait...

University of Oxford: 51.756634, -1.254704

Oxford Railway Station: 51.753288, -1.269913

Ashmolean Museum: 51.755302, -1.260026

Martyrs Memorial: 51.755053, -1.258972

Radcliffe Camera: 51.753425, -1.254012

Covered Market: 51.752195, -1.256583

Christ Church: 51.750643, -1.256597

Bridge of Sighs - Hertford College: 51.754472, -1.253734

Turf Tavern: 51.754685, -1.252968

The Alternative Tuck Shop: 51.755049, -1.251845

Lamb and Flag Passage: 51.757468, -1.258492

Cornmarket Street: 51.752937, -1.258310

Chiang Mai Kitchen: 51.752020, -1.256478

	University of Oxford Oxford, Part One University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Oxford Railway Station Oxford, Part One Oxford Railway Station, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Ashmolean Museum Oxford, Part One Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Martyrs Memorial Oxford, Part One Martyrs Memorial, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Radcliffe Camera Oxford, Part One Radcliffe Camera, Radcliffe Square, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Covered Market Oxford, Part One The Covered Market Oxford, Market Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Christ Church Oxford, Part Two Christ Church, Saint Aldate's, Oxford, UK
	Bridge of Sighs - Hertford College Oxford, Part Two Bridge of Sighs, New College Lane, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Turf Tavern Oxford, Part Two The Turf Tavern, Bath Place, Oxford, United Kingdom
	The Alternative Tuck Shop Oxford, Part Two The Alternative Tuck Shop, Holywell Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Lamb and Flag Passage Oxford, Part Two Lamb and Flag Passage, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Cornmarket Street Oxford, Part Two Cornmarket Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Chiang Mai Kitchen Oxford, Part Two Chiang Mai Kitchen Ltd, High Street, Oxford, United Kingdom

Leave a comment

December 23, 2015 CB4YT

Bridge of Sighs at Hertford College - Oxford, England

Oxford, Part One

The English city of Oxford takes just over an hour by train to reach from London. Oxford is most known for the University of Oxford. The University of Oxford boasts over 30 different colleges within walking distance. Just by being in Oxford one feels smarter as if intelligence is increased by osmosis. You will have the urge to duck into a library to crack open a book and study. Even if you are not a scholar at heart, Oxford’s architecture and serenity make for an enjoyable visit. In addition, Oxford has many eateries well worth your stomach’s time. A perfect escape from London, Oxford should rank high on your itinerary as a day trip.

It is possible to visit the highlights of Oxford in just one day. To help plan out your day when you arrive at the Oxford train station stop by the tourist information booth. This kiosk sells for around 2£ a “Quick Guide – Oxford” pamphlet and map. This guide, produced by Quick Guides Publishers, includes a walking tour that will guide you past the top sights. In the guide it states that the walk takes an hour to complete. The walk will take longer if you move at a more relaxed pace or spend extra time at the various sights. Your level of interest will determine the time you spend exploring the various colleges and sights. The colleges aren’t always open to visitors so that may impact your visiting schedule. Furthermore, leave plenty of time to eat at at least one of the many restaurants in Oxford.

Ashmolean Museum

Following the “Quick Guide – Oxford” your walk will begin at the Ashmolean Museum. The museum is a straight shot from the train station, an eleven-minute walk. From the train station continue on Hythe Bridge Street and make a left on to Worcester Street. Stay on Worcester Street and it will turn into Beaumont Street, with the museum on the left-hand side of the street. The Ashmolean Museum is Britain’s first museum, with a focus on art and archeology. Admission to the museum is free so if you enjoy museums you will want to budget in time to explore the museum. The museum is closed on Mondays, but open from 10am to 5pm Tuesdays through Sundays.

Martyrs’ Memorial

Opposite from the Ashmolean Museum is the Martyrs’ Memorial. This monument, and the museum, is where your walk will end so remember this location. The monument is in a central location so it makes for a good meeting place if anyone in your group gets separated. The Martyrs’ Memorial is in front of the first college you’ll see, Balliol. Balliol College is one of the oldest colleges in Oxford. Continue from Balliol College to Broad Street where you will find Trinity College and various stores. Here at these shops you can buy souvenirs such as a University of Oxford sweatshirt. At the opposite end of Broad Street of note is the bookstore Blackwell, Sheldonian Theatre, and the Clarendon Building.

Radcliffe Camera in Radcliffe Square

As you pass through Old Schools Quad and by Bodleian Library, you’ll find yourself in Radcliffe Square. Here you will find plenty of tourists with their cameras ready. Radcliffe Square is where you will find Radcliffe Camera, one of Oxford’s most well-known sights. This round building is home to the Radcliffe Science Library. After you’ve taken your photos you’ll find the tour takes you past a few more colleges such as Exeter College, All Souls College, and Brasenose College. At this point in the tour you may find your stomach grumbling and that you’re itching for a snack. Fear not as you should find yourself on Market Street and the Covered Market.

Pieminister

Covered Market has a slew of food stalls ready to fulfill any craving. If you are in the mood for an English dish stop by Pieminister. Pieminister serves hearty pies baked with fillings such as venison or steak. The pie dough is flakey on the outside and soft in the inside with the meat filling soft and succulent. The meat pie is placed on top of mashed potatoes with gravy pored over for the final touch. For dessert have a fresh baked cookie from Ben’s Cookies. One of Ben’s Cookies may be bought for just under 2£. For sale are cookies made with milk or dark chocolate and classics such as peanut butter or oatmeal raisin. Besides food stalls Covered Market has merchants selling fresh flowers, and butchers selling meats such as sausages and English lamb liver. You will find coffee shops, clothing stores, and even a cobbler. A wide variety of shops and food options are available for your browsing pleasure at Covered Market.

Continued in Oxford, Part Two

Oxford

loading map - please wait...

University of Oxford: 51.756634, -1.254704

Oxford Railway Station: 51.753288, -1.269913

Ashmolean Museum: 51.755302, -1.260026

Martyrs Memorial: 51.755053, -1.258972

Radcliffe Camera: 51.753425, -1.254012

Covered Market: 51.752195, -1.256583

Christ Church: 51.750643, -1.256597

Bridge of Sighs - Hertford College: 51.754472, -1.253734

Turf Tavern: 51.754685, -1.252968

The Alternative Tuck Shop: 51.755049, -1.251845

Lamb and Flag Passage: 51.757468, -1.258492

Cornmarket Street: 51.752937, -1.258310

Chiang Mai Kitchen: 51.752020, -1.256478

	University of Oxford Oxford, Part One University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Oxford Railway Station Oxford, Part One Oxford Railway Station, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Ashmolean Museum Oxford, Part One Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Martyrs Memorial Oxford, Part One Martyrs Memorial, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Radcliffe Camera Oxford, Part One Radcliffe Camera, Radcliffe Square, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Covered Market Oxford, Part One The Covered Market Oxford, Market Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Christ Church Oxford, Part Two Christ Church, Saint Aldate's, Oxford, UK
	Bridge of Sighs - Hertford College Oxford, Part Two Bridge of Sighs, New College Lane, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Turf Tavern Oxford, Part Two The Turf Tavern, Bath Place, Oxford, United Kingdom
	The Alternative Tuck Shop Oxford, Part Two The Alternative Tuck Shop, Holywell Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Lamb and Flag Passage Oxford, Part Two Lamb and Flag Passage, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Cornmarket Street Oxford, Part Two Cornmarket Street, Oxford, United Kingdom
	Chiang Mai Kitchen Oxford, Part Two Chiang Mai Kitchen Ltd, High Street, Oxford, United Kingdom

Leave a comment

December 17, 2015 CB4YT

Clarendon Building and Sheldonian Theatre on Broad Street - Oxford, England

Windsor and Eton Brewery

When I’d reached the legal drinking age I found myself drawn to wine. Intrigued by the many varietals of wine I searched out as much information as I could. I enjoyed visiting wineries for tastings and to learn how wine is produced. Even years later I am still finding new and exciting wines to sample. Although wine production shares many qualities with beer, for many years I wasn’t interested in beer. Over time, I realized it was because I had tried nothing beyond the basic light name brand beer. Once I’d made the conscious decision to expand my beer horizon a whole new realm opened for me. Similar to wine, beer is produced through out the world with many brands and types of beer to try. On my last trip to England I was excited to see what beers the country offered. I looked forward to treating my taste buds to what the English refer to as ‘bitter’ beer.

One city I planned on visiting while in England was Windsor. In researching which sights to see in Windsor I read that the city has a brewery. Windsor & Eton Brewery is a fifteen-minute walk from the famed Windsor Castle. The brewery’s website mentions that in the past Windsor created fabulous ales. In 1931 the last brewery in the city closed its doors. That is until 2010 when Windsor & Eton Brewery opened. Without hesitation I added the brewery to my list of places to visit. I found the prospect of visiting an up and coming brewery steeped in tradition exciting.

I arrived in Windsor by train via Windsor & Eton Central Station and opted for the scenic route to the brewery. From the train station I made my way to Barry Avenue, with Alexandra Gardens to my left and River Thames to my right. A left at Vansittart Road led me away from the River Thames and into a residential section of Windsor. Continuing on to Duke Street, I passed quaint two-story homes, a group of residences known as the Gardner Cottages. These homes are along Arthur Road, Vansittart Road, and Duke Street. The homes form a square shape with a field in the middle shared by the tenants. The Duke Street section of the square takes up two sides of the square and across the corner of the Duke Streets is the Windsor & Eton Brewery.

Sign for Windsor and Eton Brewery

Windsor & Eton Brewery offers tours twice a week, with tour dates and times available on their website’s event page. I wasn’t in Windsor on a tour day but figured I’d try my luck and stop by the brewery to see if it was open. Windsor & Eton Brewery is in a one-story building. The building’s nondescript outside resembles more an office building than a brewery. A sign on the wall shows that you have arrived at Windsor & Eton Brewery. I entered through the main door into what appeared to be a receptionist space. An employee of the brewery welcomed me and led me into the Windsor & Eton Brewery store. The store has for sale beers, growlers, and merchandise ranging from shirts to key chains.

Various beers for sale at Windsor and Eton Brewery

While perusing the beers on sale another employee asked if I was interested in tasting a few of the beers the brewery was producing on site. I said yes, and they ushered me into an adjoining room. This immense space was the section of the building where the beers are brewed and bottled. Large brewing tanks and stainless steel beer barrels took up most of the room. One section of the room had a counter set aside for beer tasting.

Brew tanks at Windsor and Eton Brewery

Each of the beers that Windsor & Eton Brewery produces is named in homage to the royal city of Windsor. For example, they have the Knight of the Garter Golden Ale, the Guardsman Best Bitter, and the Conqueror Black IPA. When Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, married Catherine Middleton the brewery created the Windsor Knot Pale Ale. During the tasting the employee told me the history of the brewery and the brewing methods used by the brewery. Of particular note was how beer brewed in England differs from the way beer is brewed in America. To illustrate the point the tasting included a traditional English ‘bitter’ beer. English refer to pale ale as ‘bitter’ beer. This beer is cask ale, which means after brewing in the tanks it goes through a second fermentation in barrels. Due to the cooler climate of England ‘bitter’ beer is served at room temperature but still tastes cool and refreshing. In contrast are keg beers, beer that is pressurized in tanks and kept cold and how most American beers are made. Windsor & Eton brewery makes an American IPA that is served chilled, and it was interesting tasting the ‘bitter’ versus the American IPA. Afterwards I sampled a couple other light and dark beers the brewery produces. Every beer was crisp, full bodied, and wonderful.

Tasting area at Windsor and Eton Brewery

After tasting a few beers I went back into the store and purchased bottles of beers I hadn’t had the chance to sample. As I left the Windsor & Eton Brewery I felt humbled. Even though I showed up unannounced, and not at the brewery during a scheduled tour, the employees treated me with such hospitality. In retrospect I wish I had attended a tour. The tours run for ninety minutes, allowing for a more in depth tutorial on the actual brewing techniques used. If you are a fan of beer, or want to learn how beer is produced in England, be sure to visit the Windsor & Eton Brewery.

Display at Windsor and Eton Brewery

Windsor and Eton Brewery

loading map - please wait...

Windsor and Eton Brewery 51.484451, -0.617875 Windsor and Eton Brewery

Leave a comment

December 11, 2015 CB4YT

Author Archives: CB4YT

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Mass Transit Railway (MTR)

Star Ferry

Island Ferry

Taxis

Victoria Harbour

Victoria Peak

Shopping

Local Lodging

Local Meals

Local Shopping

Portland Mornings

Portland Food Trucks

Portland Dining

Portland Drinks

Washington Park

International Rose Test Garden

Portland Japanese Garden

Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls

Vista House on Crown Point