Travelling Starfish

Loch Ard Gorge

So it’s 2004 and I’m in Australia, I’m staying in my first hostel in Melbourne and I’ve just signed up for a tour to the Great Ocean Road.

The Great Ocean Road trip is one of the two big trips people do from Melbourne.  It’s a full day trip down the coast to see natural formations and beauty.  Even though the alternative, Phillip Island where you can hang out with the penguins, is cooler (in more ways than one) I was more keen on the coastal drives and beautiful views.

Looking back, now nearly 7 years later, I’m glad I made that choice as it was an amazing experience and something special to see. I booked the trip at the hostel and got picked up from there. From memory, it was about AUD 60 and I got taken around in the coach for a full day, including lunch.

As I was staying in a backpackers, I was out the night before so I remember (very clearly) the early start we had at 6:30am.  I was staying in central Melbourne so we headed west down the coast towards Adelaide.  Along the way we stopped in a number of spots including Bells Beach. Not only is it an amazing beach populated by cute surfers (!) it is also where they filmed Point Break with Keanu Reaves and Patrick Swayze.  This is part of what I loved about Australia – the randomness and the unexpected.  This beach was so beautiful, remote but still had that special surprise.  Lovely!

Bells Beach, Great Ocean Road

After this trip down movie lane, we stopped for our quick lunch break.  The next ports of call included Anglesea, Apollo Bay and the 12 Apostles.

The 12 Apostles are probably the most famous site on the Great Ocean Road.  They are a protected series of formations that have been created over thousands of years. These giant rock stacks rise from the Southern Ocean and are the central feature of the rugged Port Campbell National Park.  Their creation is from constant erosion of the limestone cliffs of the mainland that began 10–20 million years ago.  The stormy Southern Ocean and blasting winds gradually eroded the softer limestone, forming caves in the cliffs. The caves eventually became arches and when they collapsed rock stacks up to 45 metres high were left isolated from the shore.

12 Apostles at Sunset

The views here are amazing and our tour waits so we can see the sunset over the 12 Apostles – the sunset produces a change in colour on the limestone from dark shadows to brilliant sandy yellow under the full sun.  It is absolutely gorgeous and so special – especially since this is a natural phenomenon.

Since this site is visited by so many, Parks Victoria has built boardwalks, tracks and viewing areas to ensure visitors get the most spectacular views possible of the 12 Apostles.

Even so many years later, I look back on these photos and smile.

I was told recently that one of the 12 Apostles fell due to weather – I guess I went at the right time.  Wouldn’t that make them the 11 Apostles now?  lol.

Oh – Australia, how I miss you.  It is such a lovely part of the world and I remember looking out onto the Southern Ocean and thinking that I was really (in some ways) on the edge of the world. 

I can’t wait to go back to this country of natural beauty and unlimited surprises!

Well, it’s that time of year again.  Growing up in North America, I always remember this time of year to be about snow, cold weather and lots of food & drink.  Even though I’m Jewish and don’t technically celebrate Christmas, I still did what many Jewish kids who grew up in Canada do – go for a visit to Santa at the local shopping mall for a photo.  Ah…the memories.

December and the holidays in general are a great time of year.  All of the hustle and bustle, the holiday parties and celebrations – it is just a joyful time for all.  Also we are closing down the year and starting the year off with a blank slate – something I’m looking forward to this coming year for a number of reasons.

Over the past decade, I’ve been fortunate enough to celebrate the holiday season in different parts of the world.  I’ve been down under, in the UK, home in Canada and even in Israel.

Here are some of my observations of the different traditions at this time of year in the places I’ve been -

XMAS 2004 - Oz

2004 – Christmas / New Years in Oz -

As I mentioned before, I spent about 5-6 weeks in Australia between Dec ’04 – Jan ’05.  As most of you know, this is the summertime in Australia and my first experience in the Southern Hemisphere during Christmas and New Years.  Instead of snow and slush, I was confronted with Christmas trees in the middle of beach and sun.  No complaints.

Since I don’t technically celebrate Christmas, I decided to take a break from the backpacking life and booked a 5-night holiday on Great Keppel Island through Contiki tours.  Even on this remote and relaxed island, Christmas celebrations were still in full swing.  When I talked to some Australian locals they told me that their Christmas traditions are to have barbecues outside on Christmas Day with the family. A far cry from hibernating inside with a roast to keep warm.  On this Christmas, the resort hosted a toga party – the togas were Christmas sheets you bought at the resort and it all went to charity.  It was good fun and a nice way to celebrate the festive season.

New Years in Australia is a pretty big deal.  The big party is in Sydney as it is one of the first places in the world to ring in the New Year.  I spent New Years in Fraser Island (as I mentioned in a previous blog) but the one thing that’s consistent across the country is that everyone is up for a good party.

If you are heading down under to escape the cold, enjoy mate!

XMAS ball in the UK - Yes, it's Elvis!

2006 – Christmas/New Years in Jersey, UK

2006 was my first year celebrating the holidays in the UK.  I must say, it is lovely to be on an island like Jersey at Christmas time.  Earlier in December, the Christmas Market comes out – La Fête dé Noué as they call it.  During this time, the high street is lit and the shops are bustling.  There are outdoor markets in the Royal Square and there is just a lovely feeling in the air.

My first UK Christmas was special – I loved how everyone got into the spirit with all the fun Christmas Balls, Christmas lunches and all the general festivities.  Christmas Eve most people meet up for a Christmas drink after they leave work (usually a bit earlier than normal).  Then on Christmas Day, after you open all your prezzies, we would head to the pub for a drink to chat to all the locals and wish them well.  Then came the meal – and boy was it yummy!  All of the roast turkey and pork (yes, I eat pork!) and all the trimmings – soooo delicious. The rest of the evening was spent watching Christmas specials of Coronation Street and Eastenders while chomping on snacks and chocolate.

I look back to those days and they will always put a smile on my face, that’s for sure.

Snowy Canada - 1st Jan '08

2007 – Christmas / New Years in Toronto, Canada –

In 2007, I spent Christmas Day on a plane back to Canada and New Years just outside of Toronto.  The holidays in Canada are lovely for a number of reasons.  Firstly, there is so much multiculturalism in a city like Toronto.  No holiday ever feels left out and there is almost something for everyone.  There are menorahs scattered around the city lighting an extra candle for each night of Chanukah.

For Christmas, there is a holiday feeling everywhere.  Usually there is some snow on the ground too and that always puts everyone in the holiday mood.  All of the bustling shopping malls and sales really get everyone out  Like the UK, there are lots of lights and glitter and even though it may be freezing outside, it’s always nice to take a stroll to get some holiday inspiration.

New Years in Canada is a tough one – I spent many a year getting all dolled up for fancy night clubs or parties only to be freezing cold and trekking through the snow.  In 2007, my partner & I just went to a friends house outside of the city.  To be honest, it was one of my favourite New Years celebrations I’ve ever had.  Good food, friends and laughter – who could ask for anything more to ring in a new year?

Israel - Dec 29th!!

2009 – Chanukah / New Years (Sylvester) in Israel -

Last year during all of the December celebrations, I was in Israel.  Chanukah started right when I arrived on Kibbutz Ketura. It is amazing to be in Israel at this time of year – well during any holiday celebration.  As a Jew who was born in an English speaking country, we celebrate Jewish holidays but they often aren’t as well known or widely celebrated as other holidays like Christmas or Easter.  To be in a country where the majority observes these holidays, is really something special.  It’s hard to describe.

Where I was, Christmas really was not a big deal.  I didn’t even realize it was happening until I looked at the date a couple days before.  First of all, the temperatures are warm so you don’t think you are in the month of December but also there are no Christmas decorations around like there are in North America or Europe.  I’m sure things would have been different if I went up to Jerusalem or Bethlehem though.

As for New Years, it also isn’t such a big deal here in Israel.  Dec 31st and Jan 1st aren’t holidays so if it falls on a working day, you work.  That’s not to say that people still don’t use New Year’s Eve as a reason to party – they do, especially on  a weekend.  Last year though I found out that Israelis actually call New Years Eve Sylvester – strange I know.  After researching I found out that this is named after a Catholic saint who has a feast associated with 31st Dec.  It’s a bit strange but I guess it caught on so Sylvester it is.

This year, I’m actually flying back to Israel just in time for New Year’s Eve (oops…Sylvester).  To understand more about what New Year’s is like in Israel, click here – an interesting article on the topic.

So – that’s my experiences on the holidays across the globe.  Do you have any others you’d like to share?

This Travelling Starfish wants to hear more…

Travelling in the winter months is not always the most enjoyable of things to do. Sure, who doesn’t love jetting off for a ski holiday or to somewhere warm when it’s cold outside?  I think we all agree it’s always a good idea but the weather can often reek havoc and change the course of your plans too.

To keep yourself prepared for travelling during the winter months, I’ve compiled a list of my top 3 essentials based on all my travels over the years.  Here’s what to have by your side when its cold outside -

Me in the snow!

1) Lots of layers

It sounds obvious to some and not that important to others but bringing layers of clothing while I travel during winter is definitely one of the most important things for me.  Why? Well, in the winter you are going in and out of heated areas and into the cold…put the coat on, take the coat off.

By bringing layers you allow yourself to keep a constant body temperature helping you stay warm when you need to and helping you get some relief when its a bit too hot in confined spaces.  Some also say (my mother) that keeping a stable body temperature helps you prevent illness.  I’m not sure if that’s an old wives tale but it’s definitely worked for me.

What are my layers?  First, I wear an undershirt – either a t-shirt or tank top.  The second layer consists of a thin long sleeved shirt that technically could be worn on its own in an airplane if it gets a bit too stuffy.  The third layer is a pullover sweater – I find a zip-up or bottom-down the best.  I sometimes where a bulky sweater on top that I know I’ll likely take off once I’m inside.  Top that off with your coat and you are good to go.  The point of layers is to peel them off so even if you think this sounds like a lot, it’s easy to change.  That’s the point.  The second benefit?  Less  to pack in your checked baggage – more room for souveniers!

2) Full insurance coverage

In winter, I find a full travel insurance policy is more important than ever.  This includes one that covers flight delays/cancellations, health and baggage. Insurance is important throughout the year as weather is unpredictable these days and so is travel in general.

When I travelled a lot in North America, there were always delays and many times cancellations in winter months. I always find that airlines can get a bit strange when it comes to delays/cancellations due to weather (acts of mother nature) so having a good insurance package will cover you if you have to make a change to your itinerary or stay an extra night in a hotel.

Outside of obvious emergency reasons to invest in insurance, it also just eases your stress and gives you peace of mind so you can actually enjoy your holiday.

Winter has arrived!

3) Information

Yes, information.  So many of us who live in the colder climates just want to escape during the winter that we pick a “hot” place and click “Book”.  Do your research beforehand to ensure that you are heading to a spot and you know what you’re going to get.  Some places that initially you may think will be hot may not.  This is where the internet steps in as a valuable tool.  Look at sites that give you details on average temperatures, rainfall and daylight in each spot.  If you are going further afield, consider spots that are in the opposite hempisphere to you (i.e. North Americans can head to South America or Australia).

If you are heading somewhere to ski or indulge in winter sports, do your research so you know what the weather will really be like.  Ideally, bring all the typical winter gear you need – hat, boots, gloves and the like.  This will allow you to hit the ground running and start your holiday off on the slopes versus the shopping mall.

The winter has its ups and downs.  Even though travelling when its cold outside can be a bit more inconvenient, I think we all can agree that we often also appreciate it more.  One thing not included on this list, that is definitely an essential for winter travel is to never forget your patience – I’m working on that.

Bye for now, Miriam

One of the big excursions when anyone comes to Toronto is to go and see “The Falls”.  Niagara Falls is considered by some to be a natural wonder of the world.  I actually thought before I wrote this post that it was one of the seven but after a bit of research (I am the “research girl”) I found out that it technically is not.

Me at the falls

Oh well! Canada doesn’t seem to be doing so well when it comes to keeping claims – first Toronto had the longest street in the world and that was taken away & now the wonder of the world isn’t there either.

Us Canadians always get the short end of the stick, don’t we?

Niagara Falls is still an amazing day trip or weekend away for anyone visiting Toronto.  The whole Niagara region has so much to offer.  It is a place I truly love and have always had a deep connection with.  On the way from Toronto to the Falls you pass a small cottage town called Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL).  This is my favourite area of Ontario.  It is apart of Canada’s most prestigious wine regions, has some beautiful restaurants and is so quaint.  This area has a ton of Bed & Breakfast’s that I can’t speak more highly of.  Since I love this region so much, I’ll put my comments on hold about NOTL until a later post when I can get a bit more detailed.  Just know that it’s a place you HAVE to go to – trust me.

Back to the Falls…

Expect the drive from Toronto to take you about 1.5 hours – it’s a fairly easy ride and well-marked.  There are loads of deals to stay in Niagara Falls, often with packages for free meals.  The past few times I’ve stayed directly in the Falls area I’ve stayed at the Fallsview side.  There are two major areas in Niagara Falls – Fallsview and Clifton Hill.  The latter has all the tourist spots – including fun houses, haunted houses and all the chain restaurants.  The Fallsview areas caters for families too but is close to the casino (which is great by the way) and it has a gorgeous view of the Horeshoe Falls.

Embassy Fallsview Hotel

The last couple of times I’ve always booked online through a hotel consolidation company like Hotels Combined, Expedia or Hotels.com.  No matter what time of year I’ve always found that a number of hotels give a good deal.  The hotel I’ve stayed at a few times is the Embassy Suites Fallsview.  It has amazing views of the Falls, offers beautiful suites, has free food and beverages from 5-7pm (light snacks) and gave us a discount coupon for eating at The Keg which is on-site.  Again, you get beautiful views here of the Falls while you dine away.  Lovely!

Niagara Falls from my room

Once you find a place to crash, you are spoiled for choice.  You can take your time at the Falls, taking lots of photos, but you can also go on the Maid of the Mist which essentially is a ferry boat that goes right up to the Falls.  It’s safe, don’t worry.  Everyone has to go on this at least once when they visit the Falls.  I’ve been on it a few times.

Outside of that, there is always the casino that I mentioned before.  Not only is this a Vegas style casino, it also has live shows, bars and restaurants.  It is a really good night out and I make a point to go every time.

Finally, for those that are going with the family, head up to Clifton Hill for some old school fun.  Like I said, there are haunted houses, fun houses and much more.  Cool themed restaurants like Planet Hollywood and Rainforest Cafe are there too so that is always a treat for the little ones.  There is even an IMAX theatre if the weather starts to get a bit rough around the edges.

As you can see, you’re not going to get bored, that’s for sure.

As for me, I’m happy seeing a bit of the Falls today, grabbing a bite to eat & rolling some dice for a lucky win at the casino.

Wish me luck!

Longest Street in the World?

Everyone always says that when you grow up in a place you never really recognize any of the tourist aspects to it.  Am I right?

I don’t think I really appreciated a lot of Toronto’s tourist side until I left Canada back in 2006 as our tourist attractions – things like the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame or Yonge Street – never seemed to be anything special.  Who really cares about a big tower, a place to glorify a sport where two men club one another with sticks (just kidding hockey fans) and isn’t a street just a street?

Well, as I’m sure you can tell – I’ve changed my tune now.  All of these things and more are really a special part of Toronto.  I’m not really into tourist sites but I get why people like them and it’s great that Toronto has some things for people to see.  It helps our economy, makes for a fun holiday and helps the city celebrate the great place that it is.

So – why is Yonge Street so special?  Well, I grew up a few kilometres away – again, kidding!  Yonge Street (pronounced “young”) has something unique that other streets in the world don’t.  It’s longer than any of them.  I didn’t actually know this fact until about 5/6 years ago.  It was listed by Guinness Book of Records as the longest street in the world at 1,896 km. Or was it?

I love a bit of controversy so here it is!

Yonge Street runs all the way from Lake Ontario in downtown Toronto all the way north to Holland Landing which is just north of Newmarket.  Since that is only about 64 km I was a bit confused on the 1,800 km + claim.

Basically the original claim was that Yonge Street and Highway 11 were synonymous leading all the way to the Ontario-Minnesota border.  The Guinness Book of World Records originally accepted this claim but it was founded, at a later time to be inconclusive.  Guinness does not list Yonge Street as the longest street anymore:(.

Regardless of what they say, Yonge Street is special – for many reasons.  It is the centre of the city and the city was basically built around it.  Streets are directed east to west based on where they are from Yonge Street.  So if you are on King Street West, you are west of Yonge. Toronto is a grid – know that when you come visit here.  It will help you out a lot.

Yonge - Dundas Square

Yonge Street also is home to many of the city’s attractions.  Over the past few years they have really built up various parts of the street.  Yonge-Dundas Square, the area where the Toronto Eaton Centre is located, has really evolved and has free concerts in the summer and various entertainment for the kids.  I must say, it’s a really great venue – especially since I have memories of that area of Toronto’s homeless loitering there.  They invested the money to turn it into a Canadian Times Square and now they are reaping the rewards.

As you head north on Yonge, there are a number of attractions.  Every year there is a big Yonge Street festival which extends from Yonge & Lawrence to Yonge & Dundas.  Intersections around the core areas of Yonge Street (Lawrence, Eglinton, St. Clair, Bloor & Dundas) are closed during the 3-day event often held in July.

Head a little further north and you’ll get to Mel Lastman Square.  Named after the former Mayor of North York and Toronto, this square is located in the North York area of Toronto.  It has various weekly events and monthly events including ice skating in the winter and a farmer’s market in the summer.  Over the years and as people are moving to the outskirts of the city, there’s a lot more to do on Yonge Street in the north end.  I know, as I grew up here!

If you make a visit to Toronto, trust me you won’t miss a visit to Yonge Street.  The best parts of this street is that most of the shops are open late, the subway can take you from top to bottom (from Yonge by the lake – at Union – to Finch Street Station) and (most importantly) you can have a lot of fun.

Enjoy!