A Hong Kong Day Trip

A great Hong Kong day trip is one where the experience differs from that of the districts of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Hong Kong is more than just city escapades through skyscrapers and shopping malls. Allocating part of your trip to visiting other districts of Hong Kong allows you the opportunity to see another side of Hong Kong. A Hong Kong day trip means seeing first hand a bustling fishing village or hiking lush green hills. You can pay homage to a gigantic Buddha or soak in Portuguese influence. These Hong Kong day trips give you a glimpse into how locals live on outlying islands. Four unique Hong Kong day trips are those to Cheung Chau, Lamma Island, Lantau Island, and Macau.

Boats in Cheung Chau’s harbor

Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau is part of Hong Kong’s Island Districts. You reach Cheung Chau by boat in under an hour from Hong Kong Island’s Central Ferry Pier 5. Unlike Hong Kong Island or Kowloon, Cheung Chau is a bustling fishing village. The harbor is full of fisherman working on their boats. At the waterfront vendors sell fish at markets while restaurants serve up fresh seafood dishes. Besides seafood tourists will enjoy Cheung Chau’s narrow streets with their shops, bakeries, and food stalls. Cheung Chau may translate from Cantonese into “Long Island” yet the island itself is small enough to entice visitors for a few hours. This makes Cheung Chau a perfect island for those tourists on a time crunch but still wanting to explore one of Hong Kong’s outlying islands.

Check out our article on Cheung Chau for more on visiting this island: Cheung Chau: A Hong Kong Island

Part of the Lamma Island Famly Walk Trail

Lamma Island

Lamma Island is one of Hong Kong’s largest islands and one of the closest to Hong Kong Island. The island’s proximity and size is why Lamma Island is a perfect day trip for those visiting Hong Kong. The lush green hills of Lamma Island and lack of vehicles makes this Hong Kong day trip a peaceful change of pace from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Lamma Island has two main villages, Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan. These villages connect to one other by a concrete trail that takes 1-1/2 hours to walk. The trail has amazing views of the island and the surrounding waters. Besides the trail, Lamma Island has beaches that are great for hot days and restaurants that serve delicious seafood. Visitors will reach Lamma Island by boat in under an hour on direct sailings from Hong Kong Island’s Central Ferry Pier 4.

Check out our article on Lamma Island for more on visiting this island: Hong Kong’s Lamma Island

Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island

Lantau Island

Lantau Island is Hong Kong’s largest island and one of its least populous islands. What draws visitors to Lantau Island is the giant Tian Tan Buddha. Located at the Po Lin Monastery this bronze Buddha is one of the largest seated outdoor Buddha statues in the world. Visitors can get closer to the Buddha by climbing a staircase consisting of 268 steps. Travel to the Monastery and Buddha begins by reaching Lantau Island using either MTR (Mass Transit Railway) or by boat. The MTR Station you need to arrive at is Tung Chung Station, Exit B. If you are traveling by boat you will leave from Hong Kong Island’s Central Ferry Pier 6 to Mui Wo. Once on Lantau Island you will travel on a gondola (Ngong Ping 360) or bus to the Po Lin Monastery and Tian Tan Buddha. The gondola ride leaves from the MTR Tung Chung Station and is a 25-minute ride. Buses from either MTR Tung Chung Station or Mui Wo Ferry Pier will get you to your destination in 40-minutes.

St. Paul Ruins – Macau

Macau

Of the four destinations listed in this article Macau is the only one not part of Hong Kong’s Islands District. In fact Macau isn’t part of Hong Kong but its own city. As Hong Kong was once under British rule, Macau was once part of Portugal. The mix of Portuguese and Chinese influence makes Macau an interesting Hong Kong day trip. To visit Macau from Hong Kong visitors must leave from the Macau Ferry Terminal on Hong Kong Island. The trip takes an hour by boat. Tourists will want to visit the ruins of St. Paul and the Kun Iam Statue and Temple. Besides the sights enjoy walking the mosaic-tiled streets amid buildings painted in calming shades of yellow, orange, and red colors. Take your time exploring the neighborhood’s shops and restaurants. A quirky spot to visit is the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Centre’s buildings are replicas of ancient Greek and Chinese architecture. Visitors who gamble will enjoy Macau’s status as the Las Vegas of Asia. There are plenty of casinos to gamble at such as the Sands Macao, Wynn Macau, Venetian Macau, MGM Grand Macau, and Casino Lisboa.

Hong Kong Day Trips

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Cheung Chau: 22.201618, 114.026501

Lamma Island: 22.200006, 114.135017

Lantau Island: 22.253985, 113.904984

Macau: 22.198745, 113.543873

	Cheung Chau Cheung Chau: A Hong Kong Island and A Hong Kong Day Trip Cheung Chau, Hong Kong
	Lamma Island Hong Kong’s Lamma Island and A Hong Kong Day Trip Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Lantau Island A Hong Kong Day Trip Tian Tan Buddha, Hong Kong
	Macau A Hong Kong Day Trip Macau

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March 29, 2016 CB4YT

Hong Kong’s Lamma Island

Lamma Island is one of Hong Kong’s largest islands and one of the closest to Hong Kong Island. Its proximity and size is why Lamma Island is a perfect day trip for those visiting Hong Kong. Lamma Island is what you get if you cross California’s Catalina Island with Italy’s Cinque Terre. Similar to Catalina Island, Lamma Island has no cars, which makes Lamma Island a peaceful change of pace from Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Lamma Island is comparable to Cinque Terre in that both have villages you reach by foot using trails. On Lamma Island a concrete trail that takes 1-1/2 hours to walk separates the two main villages, Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan. This trail takes you through lush hills with amazing views of the island and the surrounding waters. Besides the trail, Lamma Island has beaches that are great for hot days and restaurants that serve delicious seafood.

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

Central Ferry Piers on Hong Kong Island

Ferry to Lamma Island

The Ferry to Lamma Island

Visitors reach Lamma Island by ferry in under an hour on direct sailings from Hong Kong Island’s Central Ferry Pier 4. Depending on which ferry you board, ordinary or fast, your journey will take anywhere from 30-minutes to an hour. Upon arriving at Central Ferry Pier 4 you will buy your ticket for the ferry from the ticket booth. Fares vary for adults, children, and those over the age of 65. Besides age the cost of the fare depends on whether you travel Mondays to Saturdays or Sundays and public holidays. The most expensive ticket is the adult Sundays and public holidays fare from Central to Sok Kwu Wan at HKD $29.80 (USD $3.84). If your travel plans are flexible aim to visit Lamma Island during the weekday. On weekends Lamma Island is a popular place for locals looking to exercise on the trail or lounge on the beach.

One may explore Lamma Island starting at either of the main villages, Sok Kwu Wan or Yung Shue Wan. Separate ferries from Central Ferry Pier 4 can take you to either location. More ferries run between Central and Yung Shue Wan so we recommended you end your day at Yung Shue Wan. This way you won’t have to wait too long for a return ferry back to Hong Kong Island. Once aboard the ferry try to sit at a window seat so you can enjoy the view of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon while sailing through Victoria Harbour.

Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island - Hong Kong, China

Sok Kwu Wan village

The Village of Sok Kwu Wan

As your ferry approaches Sok Kwu Wan you’ll realize how you are in a place much different from Hong Kong Island or Kowloon. Underneath the shadow of a small green hill lies a short row of two-story buildings. In front of these buildings various awnings nestle up along side the waterfront. These awnings belong to open-air seafood restaurants. You will exit the ferry at the Sok Kwu Wan Pier and turn right, on to Sok Kwu Wan First Street. Here you will find yourself in the midst of the buildings you saw upon your approach on the ferry. The two-story buildings house the working part of the restaurants, such as the kitchens and aquariums. Besides restaurants you will find convenience stores and shopkeepers selling dried fish. There aren’t any souvenir stores or homes in this section of Lamma Island. This village is just for seafood eating. If you are hungry be sure to eat at a restaurant and enjoy the waterfront view. Before embarking on the trail consider buying snacks and a bottle of water from one of the convenience stores for your trek.

Street in Sok Kwu Wan

Restaurant with waterfront seating in Sok Kwu Wan

Lamma Island’s Trail

With the hill on your left and the water on your right you’ll walk along the street through Sok Kwu Wan. As you reach the end of this street and Sok Kwu Wan’s seafood row you will come upon a temple. This is a Tin Hau temple, one of three on the island. Tin Hau is the Goddess of the Sea and of Fishermen, a helpful deity for locals given Lamma Island’s proximity to the water. From the temple you will continue on the main trail, known as Lamma Island Family Walk. Abundant signs throughout the trail keep you heading in the right direction, towards the village of Yung Shue Wan.

Tin Hau Temple in Sok Kwu Wan

Walking uphill on the Lamma Island Famly Walk Trail

Kamikaze Grottos

The entire Lamma Island Family Walk trail is concrete. The trail goes up and over a hill and takes 1-1/2 hours to complete. After leaving Sok Kwu Wan you will pass a few dwellings but the majority of housing on Lamma Island is in the other main village, Yung Shue Wan. Just continue to follow the signs to Yung Shue Wan so you don’t wind up in someone’s backyard or off the beaten path. After you’ve walked 8-minutes from the Tin Hau Temple you will see one of several small caves on the island. Locals call these caves Kamikaze Grottos. During World War II the Japanese army had troops stationed on the island and were planning on using the caves to hide speedboats. Those boats were for future suicide attacks on Allies’ warships. Before the Japanese carved out the caves large enough to hold boats the war ended. The caves have remained untouched ever since and serve as a reminder as to Lamma Island’s status during the war.

Part of the Lamma Island Famly Walk Trail

Kamikaze Grottos

Hilltop Pavilion

From the Kamikaze Grottos you will ascend the hill and reach a scenic point with a view of Sok Kwu Wan and the Lo So Shing Port. The viewpoint with its hilltop pavilion offers benches for those looking to rest before continuing on the trail. As you continue on the trail you will soon reach the top of the hill. It is at this point you will see off the coast a massive building with three tall pillars. This building is the Lamma Power Station. The Lamma Power Station provides power to Lamma Island and Hong Kong Island. The Lamma Island Family Walk trail won’t lead you to the Lamma Power Station. During the rest of your walk you will continue to see the building until you reach Hung Shing Yeh Beach and Yung Shue Wan.

View of Pichic Bay and Sok Kwu Wan

Hilltop Pavilion over looking Pichic Bay and Sok Kwu Wan

Lamma Power Station

Hung Shing Yeh Beach

Hung Shing Yeh Beach is a sandy beach marred only by the garish view of the Lamma Power Station as you gaze out into water. The beach itself is popular with tourists and locals alike on hot days. There are public toilets next to the beach, ideal if you need a restroom or a place to change into your swimming suit. On one end of the beach you will find benches underneath large trees that offer generous amounts of shade. These benches make for a great escape from the sun and a nice picnic spot. After you leave Hung Shing Yeh Beach you will reach the village of Yung Shue Wan in 25-minutes.

Hung Shing Yeh Beach

Trees with benches at Hung Shing Yeh Beach

View from Hung Shing Yeh Beach

View of Power Station from Hung Shing Yeh Beach

The Village of Yung Shue Wan

As you leave Hung Shing Yeh Beach behind you will continue on the trail and walk past homes, both old dwellings and newer apartment buildings. This section of Yung Shue Wan is home to many foreigners. Yung Shue Wan has a much more relaxed vibe than the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. You’ll know you’re in the heart of Yung Shue Wan when you pass shops selling bakery items such as pineapple buns. There are more convenience stores in Yung Shue Wan than in Sok Kwu Wan so you can restock your water or snack supply if need be. Along with the stores you will once again find seafood restaurants, such as Lung Wah, along Yung Shue Wan Main Street. Enjoy a plate of clams in black bean sauce or salt and pepper squid to rejuvenate after walking the trail.

Buildings in Yung Shue Wan

Housing in Yung Shue Wan

Bakery in Yung Shue Wan

Clams in black bean sauce at Lung Wah Seafood Restaurant in Yung Shue Wan

Salt and pepper squid at Lung Wah Seafood Restaurant in Yung Shue Wan

Once you reach the end of Yung Shue Main Street you may continue on the Lamma Island Family Walk trail. A 10-minute walk will take you to the Tai Peng San Cheun viewpoint. Or you can walk the rest of the Lamma Island Family Walk, which includes the Pak Kok Tsuen Pier to Aberdeen. This trail circles around back to Yung Shue and is another 50-minutes of walking. When you are ready to leave Lamma Island head to the Yung Shue Wan Pier to catch your ferry back to Central Ferry Piers in Hong Kong Island.

View of Lamma Power Station from Yung Shue Wan

Street with shops in Yung Shue Wan

Yung Shue Wan village

Lamma Island

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Sok Kwu Wan Ferry Pier: 22.205580, 114.131170

Tin Hau Temple: 22.203795, 114.130942

Kamikaze Grottos : 22.204247, 114.127530

Hilltop Pavilion: 22.204378, 114.126472

Lamma Power Station: 22.217979, 114.107147

Hung Shing Yeh Beach: 22.218653, 114.119803

Lung Wah Seafood Restaurant: 22.226601, 114.111669

Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier: 22.225002, 114.110643

	Sok Kwu Wan Ferry Pier Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Sok Kwu Wan Ferry Pier, Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Tin Hau Temple Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Tin Hau Temple, Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Kamikaze Grottos Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Cave Kamikaze, Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Hilltop Pavilion Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Lo So Shing Sitting-out Area, Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Lamma Power Station Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Lamma Power Station, Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Hung Shing Yeh Beach Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Hung Shing Yeh Beach, Hong Kong
	Lung Wah Seafood Restaurant Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Lung Wah Seafood Restaurant, Lamma Island, Hong Kong
	Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier Hong Kong’s Lamma Island Yung Shue Wan Development Pier, Lamma Island, Hong Kong

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March 17, 2016 CB4YT

Featured Photo for article on Lamma 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

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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

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February 5, 2016 CB4YT

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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December 23, 2015 CB4YT

Bridge of Sighs at Hertford College - 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

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

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December 11, 2015 CB4YT

Windsor and Eton Brewery - Windsor, England

Visiting Windsor and Eton

Visitors to Windsor and Eton will find two charming English towns right next to each other. Windsor is famous for Windsor Castle. Windsor’s neighbor Eton is home to a prestigious boys’ boarding school. It is easy to visit both towns as they are within walking distance of one another. In fact, a seven-minute walk separates the two train stations that bring travelers to Windsor and Eton. If traveling from London, Windsor & Eton Central services travelers from London Paddington (via a platform at Slough). Travel between the two stations can take anywhere between 27-49 minutes depending on which train you catch. Travelers from London Waterloo will arrive at Windsor & Eton Riverside in one hour. Windsor & Eton Central is the train station closest to Windsor Castle, while Windsor & Eton Riverside is closer to the River Thames and Eton. Listed below are the main sights to visit in Windsor and Eton.

Windsor Royal Shopping

Upon exiting the train at Windsor & Eton Central you walk into the open air Windsor Royal Shopping center. The center was once a Victorian railway station and parts of the original architecture remains. A variety of shops and restaurants are at your disposal to cure your hunger or shopping pangs. If you are hungry and aren’t able to decide which restaurant to eat at try the Cinnamon Cafe. The Cinnamon Cafe serves pastries such as scones and other traditional English foods such as jacket potatoes. In addition to restaurants and clothing stores, Windsor Royal Shopping has candy and souvenir shops. Even more stores are found in the streets surrounding Windsor Royal Shopping. Both established English retailers and international brands are there to fulfill your shopping needs.

Windsor Royal Shopping

Windsor Castle

The highlight of Windsor is Windsor Castle, one of the residences of the Royal Family. When the Royal Standard flag is flying above the Castle the Queen is home. If the British (Union) flag is on display the Queen is spending her time elsewhere. As Windsor is located near London many tourists flock to Windsor Castle via tour groups. If traveling without a group when you arrive at the Castle you may see a long line of people snaking along the street leading up to the ticket booth entrance. That long line is for tour groups and if you aren’t connected to a group you may go ahead to the ticket booth entrance. A Windsor Castle attendant will guide you to the line for non-tour group visitors. Admission to Windsor Castle includes a handheld device with a self-guided multimedia tour. Your ticket gives you access to the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and St. George’s Chapel. Keep in mind that St. George’s Chapel is closed to tourists Sundays. If you plan on watching Changing the Guard be sure to check on the Windsor Castle website beforehand for up-to-date times.

Windsor Castle’s Round Tower

Windsor Great Park

The easiest way to gain access to Windsor Great Park is by walking to the end of Park Street. There you will find the Park Street Gate. The Park Street Gate is closed during the nighttime but when open it allows you direct access to the Long Walk. The Long Walk is a three-mile tree-lined path through a section of Windsor Great Park. With Windsor Great Park stretching over 8 square miles of land, the Long Walk provides just a glimpse of the grounds. A view of a statue of George III rewards those who traverse the entire path. If the walking made you tired go to the pub right next to the Park Street Gate where you can grab yourself refreshment and recuperate.

Park Street Gate and Windsor Castle - Windsor, England

Park Street Gate (to the left) and Windsor Castle (center)

The Long Walk, Windsor Great Park

River Thames and Eton

The River Thames separates the two towns of Windsor and Eton. Walk along the river to see swans frolicking in the water. You can watch rowing and motorboats sail the river. The river flows past the Alexandra Gardens. The gardens are open to visitors and are next to a parking lot if you drive to Windsor and need a spot to leave your car. Besides walking next to the river, several companies offer various boat trips along the river. You can cross over the River Thames by way of the Windsor & Eton Bridge, which connects the two towns of Windsor and Eton. At night Windsor Castle is lit up and the bridge provides a spectacular view. Across the bridge, on the Eton side, are several restaurants of which a few offer riverside seating. If you continue past the restaurants you will wind up on High Street. This street is lined with shops and leads you to Eton College, a boys’ boarding school. The architecture of the shops, restaurants, and boarding school are worth the stroll through the town of Eton.

River Thames - Windsor and Eton, England

River Thames and the Windsor & Eton Bridge

Windsor and Eton Sights

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Windsor Royal Shopping: 51.482834, -0.609454

Windsor Castle: 51.483889, -0.604408

Windsor Great Park: 51.463062, -0.606337

Eton College: 51.495735, -0.604440

Alexandra Gardens: 51.484611, -0.613870

	Windsor Royal Shopping Visiting Windsor and Eton Windsor Royal Shopping, Goswell Hill, Windsor, United Kingdom
	Windsor Castle Visiting Windsor and Eton Windsor Castle, Windsor, United Kingdom
	Windsor Great Park Visiting Windsor and Eton The Long Walk, Windsor, United Kingdom
	Eton College Visiting Windsor and Eton Eton College, Windsor, United Kingdom
	Alexandra Gardens Visiting Windsor and Eton Alexandra Gardens, Windsor, United Kingdom

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November 27, 2015 CB4YT

St George's Chapel and Round Tower - Windsor Castle - Windsor, England

Day Trips From London

A week in London means a packed itinerary and a day trip to another town may be the furthest thing from your mind. Even so, you should devote a day to a city besides London. Visit other parts of England near London to allow yourself the opportunity to explore another side of the country. Day trips that offer a different experience than staying in London are Bath, Oxford, Reading, Stonehenge, and Windsor. Travel times listed in each heading are one-way train trips from London’s Paddington Station.

Bath – 90 minutes

Walk around London and you can’t imagine that Britain was once part of the Roman Empire. Travel to Bath and that evidence hits you smack dab in the face. The town of Bath is known for its hot springs and the Romans built bathhouses to harness the restorative water. Tourists can buy tickets for admittance into what was once a functioning bathhouse and learn the history of the town. Unlike hot spring locations in other parts of the world, Bath does not have public bathhouses open to visitors. Thermae Spa is the only place in Bath where you can pay to take a dip in water flowing from the hot springs. Before heading home stroll through Bath and admire the Roman architecture and quaint streets.

The Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul – Bath

Oxford – 60 minutes

Tourists looking to explore England’s famed university towns choose between Oxford and Cambridge. Both are solid choices but Cambridge is a two-hour journey from London while Oxford takes an hour to reach by train. Oxford boasts over 30 different universities 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. When you arrive at the Oxford train station stop by the tourist information booth and buy the 2£ map that includes a walking tour. The walking tour will guide you past the top sites. Plan on the walk to take an hour to complete. The walk will take longer if you walk at a relaxed pace, explore the universities, and eat at one of the many restaurants in Oxford.

The Radcliffe Camera – Oxford University

Reading – 30 minutes

Reading is not a town brimming with sites, but that’s the appeal. The streets from the train station lead you past various shops and to the Oracle shopping center. The Oracle provides a chance to shop in a mall without the same crowds that you find in London. Behind the Oracle is a riverfront reminiscent of a scaled version of the River Walk in San Antonio, Texas. Plenty of restaurant options around the river will replenish you during your shopping excursion. If you need a pause from the hustle and bustle of London consider Reading that break.

Reading – The Oracle Riverside

Stonehenge – 3 hours

Photos of the monument Stonehenge are recognizable around the world. Years ago tourists to the fabled grounds of Stonehenge could walk right up to the massive stones and place their hands directly onto the monument. Even though the experience of touching the stones is no longer allowed this prehistoric monument is a site to be seen. With a six hour round trip, this destination is the longest on this list to reach by train. The better plan is to tack Stonehenge along with another location such as Bath. Companies, such as Gray Line, have a bus tour that is nine hours and includes transportation to both Bath and Stonehenge. Travel with a tour group means that you will be on a schedule when at each location. At least you will visit both sites without having to spend six hours sitting on a train.

Stonehenge

Windsor – 35 minutes

The highlight of Windsor is Windsor Castle, one of the many residences of the Royal Family. If you see the Royal Standard flag flying above the Castle then you know the Queen is home. Tourists primarily descend upon Windsor by tour bus just to visit the Castle. Windsor is more than just the Castle and worth a few extra hours beyond the tour of the Castle grounds. If you arrive at Windsor & Eton Central railway station upon exiting the train are various shops and restaurants. Around Windsor Castle are more shops and restaurants. Next to Windsor Castle is Windsor Great Park that includes pathways such as the Long Walk. Another nice walk is across the River Thames to Eton College, a boys’ boarding school. The streets leading to Eton College are lined with shops and restaurants.

Windsor Castle

Day Trips From London

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Bath: 51.375801, -2.359904

Oxford: 51.752021, -1.257726

Reading: 51.454265, -0.978130

Stonehenge: 51.178882, -1.826215

Windsor: 51.481728, -0.613576

	Bath Day Trips From London Bath, United Kingdom
	Oxford Day Trips From London Oxford, United Kingdom
	Reading Day Trips From London Reading, United Kingdom
	Stonehenge Day Trips From London Stonehenge, Amesbury, United Kingdom
	Windsor Day Trips From London Windsor, United Kingdom

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November 19, 2015 CB4YT

Tag Archives: sight

Cheung Chau

Lamma Island

Lantau Island

Macau

The Ferry to Lamma Island

The Village of Sok Kwu Wan

Lamma Island’s Trail

Kamikaze Grottos

Hilltop Pavilion

Hung Shing Yeh Beach

The Village of Yung Shue Wan

Victoria Harbour

Victoria Peak

Shopping

Washington Park

International Rose Test Garden

Portland Japanese Garden

Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls

Vista House on Crown Point

Windsor Royal Shopping

Windsor Castle

Windsor Great Park

River Thames and Eton

Bath – 90 minutes

Oxford – 60 minutes

Reading – 30 minutes

Stonehenge – 3 hours

Windsor – 35 minutes