Around the World Travel

Didgeridoo - Lesson

2014-01-29T18:33:00.003-06:00

Didgeridoo - How to Play

2014-01-29T18:31:00.002-06:00

The Cheltenham Badlands in Caledon, Ontario

2013-10-09T13:52:00.000-05:00

This beautiful geological formation is found along the Niagara Escarpment. It was an accidental find really. We were looking for a restaurant near Bolton and discovered these rusty-coloured rolling hills and gullies of shale.

The badlands are found Northwest of Toronto and is well worth the trip if you're in the area. There is parking along the road leading to the site. It doesn't take long to traverse this barren geologic wonder. that was once covered by a lake which dried up thousands of years ago. The surrounding forest is spectacular in the fall with the changing colours of the leaves.

Humber Shores, Lake Ontario

2013-09-01T20:48:00.001-05:00

My favourite place in Ontario is along the Humber Shores area in the west end of Toronto that runs West of Windermere to just east of Royal York.

It is a city within a city: a park within a city. Along its shores lies the Martin-Goodman Trail.

Cyclists, runners and walkers abound as they enjoy beautiful Lake Ontario and the various habitats such as the indigenous plants, the butterflies and a variety of fowl: swans, ducks, great blue herons; and, on occasion, the industrious beaver.

Where else, but in the City of Toronto can one enjoy such diversity? Although for me, the are is just steps from home, I feel like I’m in another world. It’s always a great adventure and a great escape from the everyday.

To Tip or Not to Tip? Are North American Restauranteurs Stiffing Their Staff?

2013-08-01T16:44:00.000-05:00

By Irene Fantopoulos

From the film Reservoir Dogs to ordinary folk like you and me, whether to tip and how much is the question that plagues North Americans. Sure there is the issue of how much do we/should we tip hairstylists, manicurists, cabbies and the mail man, but they aren’t part of this discussion.

I don’t necessarily mind tipping for excellent or fairly good service. But what I do mind is when restaurateurs prescribe that I must tip or be a social pariah. Why do wait staff appear to  have just escaped from the pages of a Dickensian scene – hungry and needy.

Of course, I’ll get in trouble with servers, patrons and restaurateurs alike, but hey, like them, I’m entitled to my opinion.

Having travelled extensively to Europe and elsewhere outside North America, many restaurants include tip and taxes in their prices. I enjoy going to these restaurants and knowing that when I select from the menu, the price quoted is what I pay at the end. Genius? Perhaps. Maybe it’s simply great customer service.  Maybe it’s because they pay their staff well. Sometimes you leave the change; sometimes you leave 5%, maybe 10% because of exceptional service. In Europe tips are not expected, although they are appreciated.

I was recently in Ireland, and I asked what customary tipping is. I discovered that tipping is not the norm in Ireland. “Buy a bloke a drink,” a fellow patron said “to demonstrate your appreciation.” Brilliant! Some might say, ‘what if the food and service are horrible?” Why should the tip be automatic? How many of us North Americans really complain when the food or the service is poor? Few. We just don’t want to upset anyone lest they spit in our food. So we tip in spite of poor quality and poor service. 

In the end, a good steak is a good steak wether it’s $20 or $50. Shouldn’t the tip be about the quality, not the price?

What about the automatic inclusion of a tip when there are more than six or eight patrons at a table? If you use a debit machine, you’re also tipping on the taxes if you choose the percentage option. 

Tipping has nothing to do with being cheap. Tipping has everything to do with the restaurant owners who expect their patrons to supplement their servers’ income. My suggestion is: pay your servers well, like the Europeans, and reflect that cost in the price of your food items. Owners might respond by saying, “Then my prices will be too high and no one will come”. Perhaps they’re in the wrong business if revenues don’t exceed costs.  

Sure there are some people who walk off without tipping and that’s just not right. But somehow North American servers need to realize that technically it’s their bosses stiffing them.

Images from The Big Easy (New Orleans, Louisiana)

2013-04-07T11:56:00.000-05:00

Here are some memorable moments from Angelo's and my trip to New Orleans (March 29 - April 2).

Watch out for the gators!

Typical latticed balcony.

A wedding...

Trolley

Alligator

Find the Alligator

Turtlemania

Me and the gator.

Tomb of Marie Laveau "Voodoo Queen"
St. Louis Cemetery and the oldest in NOLA

JAZZY

Garden District greenery

The Houses of Algiers Point

Louis Armstrong, Algiers Point

Home in Algiers Point

Garden District Home (Greek Revival)

Former home of writer, Anne Rice (Garden District)

St Louis Cathedral

Garden District house

Bourbon Street

Downtown Louisiana

Top 10 Things to Do in New York City on a Budget

2013-02-24T09:09:00.000-06:00

I’m often asked, is New York City expensive?

Well, yes it is, if you go for haute couture or haute cuisine. But it doesn’t have to be. In a recent trip to NYC, I focused on discovering some free or relatively inexpensive things to do.

Here are my recommendations:

There is a litany of guided walks that you can get on the internet which describe the various New York districts. You can download free pod casts directly to your iPhone, iPod or MP3 player. One great site is Bowery Boys and has over 50 downloadable audio tours of neighborhoods, landmarks and historical sites in and around New York City.

NYC is a great walking city. Another way is to take the fast, efficient and inexpensive Metro transit system. Like the iconic city, the transit system never sleeps. The Metro runs 24/7, 365 days of the year. If you buy a $10 pass you get a 40 cent credit. Each ride is $2.25. Note that in the summer, there is a lot of construction and some stops are diverted. But it is still a great alternative to driving or cabbing it.

So now you’re on the Metro system. Where do you go? Try these:

1. An easy way to take in the spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline is to approach it by foot along the Brooklyn Bridge. From downtown Manhattan, take the Metro’s A/C train to High Street and exit onto Cadman Plaza West in Brooklyn. You will see the foot path (and many tourists and New Yorkers) leading to the Brooklyn Bridge. As you cross the bridge into Manhattan you will have amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and the NY Harbour. Watch out for the hundreds of pedestrians, cyclists and strollers crossing the bridge at any given time of the day.

2. Central Park is a beautiful green space in the centre of Manhattan. Its 843 acres boast the Jackie Kennedy Reservoir, thirty six bridges, a zoo, a playground, and so much more. There are also some events that are free and offered through Central Park Summerstage, including plays and musical performances. Entrance to the Park is free.

3. Visit The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) on Friday nights after 4 p.m. Entry is free, compliments of Target, the American retailer. If you have backpacks or shopping bags you will have to check them at the door (that’s free, too). Caution: It gets very crowded, so get there as close to 4 p.m. as you can.

4. On the first Saturday of each month, the Brooklyn Museum is free from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Again, this is compliments of Target and gets very crowded.

5. For a shopping extravaganza, and if you don’t mind rooting through racks upon racks of discounted designer and brand-name clothing, housewares and shoes, then Century 21 is the store for you. It is located on Cortland street near the site of the former World Trade Centre area in Lower Manhattan. I find that the new Lincoln Square location can be less daunting with the same great prices.

6. So while you’re shopping in this part of Manhattan why not visit the 9/11 Memorial? Tickets are free, however, you need to reserve in advance. Go here to reserve your tickets which guarantees you entry. Some tickets are available near the site, but there are no guarantees that you will be admitted using this method. There is a strict entry policy and your bags will be screened. Don’t bring a Swiss army knife or anything that might be construed as a weapon as you will likely be denied entry. Water is permitted.

7. While there isn’t much to do on Staten Island, take the free ferry from Battery Park and you will be pleased with the ride along the Hudson River where you can have a different perspective of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

8. Take a walk along the High Line Park in the Meatpacking/Chelsea district. An obsolete railroad has been transformed into an oasis above the city for the enjoyment of visitors and locals alike. The railroad, built in the 1930s, was once used to divert dangerous freight trains from the city streets. The tracks can still be seen and have been incorporated into the landscape. One can almost conjure up images of trains transporting supplies to the factories and warehouses in the area. There are many access points to the Park, including: Gansevoort Street, West 18th Street, West 20th Street, West 26th Street, and West 28th Street. Entrance to the Park is free.

9. Free tickets to a taping of the David Letterman Show. All you need to do is go online and order your tickets. The episodes are taped in the famed Ed Sullivan Theatre on Broadway. You do have to queue in on the morning or afternoon of the taping, but you will have an opportunity to see some well-known actors and musicians. I saw Uma Thurman and Tim McGraw.

10. Discounted tickets to Broadway and off-Broadway plays are available on the day of the show at the TKTS booths in several locations in Manhattan. Click here for more information. You can also download an app for your phone.

While New York can be expensive, there’s plenty to do that doesn’t cost much or is entirely free.

This article first appeared on What's Fab Magazine on August 17, 2012

Ten Super Foods to Reduce the Risk of Prostate Cancer

2013-02-24T08:42:00.002-06:00

There is a lot of information out there saying to “eat this,” or “don’t eat that.”

These foods will help with the common cold. This herb will help with digestion. How can one surf through these competing messages and make the right choice when it comes to combatting the prospect of prostate cancer?

In 2011, Cancer Canada reported 25,500 cases of diagnosed prostate cancer and 4,100 deaths. The probability of developing this insidious cancer, over one’s lifetime, is one in seven.

So what can men of all ages do? Well gentlemen, after reviewing a number of sources, I have distilled the myriad of information into 10 super foods that could potentially reduce your risk of prostate cancer.

1. Green Tea

Native to China, green tea is a good substitute for our coffee-driven day. Today, scientific research in both Asia and the west is providing hard evidence for the health benefits long associated with drinking green tea. For example, in 1994 the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of an epidemiological study indicating that drinking green tea reduced the risk of esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women by nearly sixty percent. University of Purdue researchers recently concluded that a compound in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells. There is also research indicating that drinking green tea lowers total cholesterol levels, as well as improving the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol.

2. Turmeric

This spice is native to India, has an earthy flavour, a mustard-like smell, and adds colour to rice and other foods. I find it a less expensive alternative to saffron. Turmeric is an herb in the Ginger family. It is a natural antioxidant and sometimes used as a natural food preservative.

3. Cruciferous Vegetables

Try brocolli, kale, brussel sprouts, arugula and mustard greens since they are packed with nutrients and cancer-fighting properties.

Caution: For men who suffer from thyroid issues, there is evidence that raw cruciferous vegetables contain thyroid inhibitors known as goitrogens.

4. Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts are a natural source of the mineral, selenium. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make selenoproteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. The antioxidant properties of selenoproteins help prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Free radicals are natural by-products of oxygen metabolism that may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. But as with many nuts, they are high in calories.

5. Fish

Especially fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, trout, contain omega-3–the cancer-fighting essential fatty acid that contributes to good health.

6. Flaxseed

Also known as flax and linseed, flaxseed comes from plants grown in the Mediterranean all the way to India. There is also evidence that flax contains dietary fibre and omega-3 fatty acids.

7. Pomegranates

Native to Iran, pomegranates are delicious and hardy even though they are somewhat messy to handle. Their juice is a thirst-quenching and cancer-fighting super drink which has shown to inhibit levels of prostate-specific antigens in people who underwent prostate cancer treatment.

8. Tomatoes

Especially processed tomato products, such as ketchup, contains the compound lycopene. So go ahead and splurge on that pasta sauce.

9. Sweet Potatoes

Switch out those regular potatoes for this colourful vegetable. They are as versatile as regular potatoes and can be mashed, baked and added to shepherd’s pie.

10. Beans

All kinds of beans help the body rid itself of excess testosterone. So add kidney beans to salads, make a lentil dip, or try some dried chick peas.

So gentlemen, if you’re not including these healthy foods in your diet already, cut up those veggies, add some spices and drink some green tea. If nothing else, these choices will improve your overall health. Introducing these foods to your diet now instead of later, can have a positive impact to your overall health.

It is always important to consult with your physician if you have any diets about the interaction of these foods with other pre-existing conditions.

This article first appeared in What's Fab Magazine on October 28, 2012

The Inner World of Artist Frida Kahlo and the Outer World of Artist Rivera Diego

2013-01-02T13:22:00.000-06:00

by Irene Fantopoulos

Kahlo (1907-1954) and Diego (1886-1957), Mexican artists, husband and wife and major contributors to the art world in the first half of the twentieth century.

Much of Diego’s work encapsulates the two revolutionary worlds that dominated his life: the Mexican Revolution from 1910 to 1920 and the Russian Revolution of 1917. While he is known mostly as a muralist, his art focused on rural Mexican life and his support of communism. He believed that labourers and peasants should be free from oppression, a nod to Karl Marx. He painted 200 murals for the Ministry of Education, Mexico City.

Kahlo’s art embodies her own personal life which was plagued by debilitating injuries that were the result of a near-fatal bus accident when she was 20. The injuries caused her great physical pain and tragedy throughout her life. A considerable number of her canvasses are self-portraits because, in her words, “I paint myself because I am alone. I am the subject I know best.” Other aspects of her art include the symbiotic relationship between humans and plants.

Kahlo’s and Diego’s art, life and volatile relationship are on display at the Art Gallery of Ontario till January 20, 2013. The exhibit is co-organized by the AGO, The High Museum of Art, Atlanta and The Museo Dolores Olmedo, Mexico City.

Immerse yourself in the lives and art of these famous Mexican artists and enter a world that is both poignant and sometimes horrific as the artists capture on canvas moments in their personal lives and the world around them.

Kahlo’s life was depicted in the biopic, entitled Frida in 2002, which starred Salma Hayak, a Mexican-American actor.

Toronto City Hall Zip Line

2012-11-22T08:15:00.000-06:00

Toronto City Hall gets is wings. For a limited time and just in time for the Grey Cup Festival this weekend take a 20 second ride on the tallest zip line in North America.

The ride is 130 feet in the air and you get a unique view of the financial district and Toronto City Hall.

ZIP LINE HOURS:

Saturday, November 17: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sunday, November 18: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Monday, November 19: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Tuesday, November 20: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Wednesday, November 21: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Thursday, November 22: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Friday, November 23: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Saturday, November 24: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Dairy Free Love

2012-11-22T07:57:00.003-06:00

The one woman show is making its tasty debut in Toronto for 10 shows in November and December.

For more information and tickets, go to www.dairyfreelove.com.

Autumn Colours Along the Humber Shores

2012-10-08T19:38:00.000-05:00

By Irene Fantopoulos

Summer's final curtain call has set on Humber Shores. As always, the seasonal changes come abruptly with little warning other than a date on the calendar. As I look to the east, the angle of the setting sun makes the distant city sparkle, the light reflecting off the windows of buildings and skyscrapers along Toronto's skyline.

With autumn come the glorious colours of the changing leaves, that for some reason have not yet reached their full capacity. They leave behind a combination of barrenness and mediocre colour. Perhaps in a few days they will burst with a rainbow of colour. But if the wind increases, the leaves will scatter without having reached their potential.

While most of us enjoyed the heat of the summer and were thrilled with the rainless days, it is sad to see that Mimico Creek has dried up like a prune. The tale is telling as desert-like conditions have arrived uninvited to the once fulsome Creek. The water markings along the edge are like a parent's nicks on a doorframe capturing a child's height over time. For the Creek, however, the nicks are on a downward trend, getting lower and lower with each passing day.

Mimico Creek

I wish for snowy days that fill the creeks, rivers and lakes so that in the coming spring life will thrive upon these waterbeds once again.

Birds of Florida's Gulf Coast: Caught in Action

2012-09-29T20:56:00.001-05:00

There is no shortage of birds along Florida's Gulf Coast. The following is just a sample of the many water birds find in and around the Gulf of Mexico. Predatory in nature, they lie in wait and swoop upon their prey without mercy.

As fish dive up in the water, the birds are quick to grab them with beaks made for the purpose of grasping their prey. Swoop and soar - that was the pattern of many of these birds. A major virtue is their patience as they wait for the right moment before nabbing their meal.

Gulls

Willet

Least Terns

Least Terns with Gulls coexisting

Least Terns spooked by humans walking along the beach.

Patient Brown Pelican. Waiting. Watching.

Pelican swooping in on its prey.

...almost there...

A pod of pelicans

The Great Blue Heron. Another patient water bird.
Watching. Waiting.

Great Blue Heron - Lunch is in sight.

Great Blue Heron - Lunch is served

Great Blue Heron - Waiting for seconds.

The pristine Snowy Egret

Snowy Egret, gracefully wading in the water

Snowy Egret

American Oystercatcher

Florida's Gulf Coast: The Cycle of Life

2012-09-22T20:09:00.000-05:00

Today is the first day of fall, but the heat of the day won't release itself from the final throes of summer. The rains come and go, mostly during the night, but they leave behind a path of destruction. Many jellyfish line the beaches, offering themselves unwillingly to the numerous species of birds, such as the American Oystercatcher or the Sandwich Tern.

SANDWICH TERN

AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER

CRAB SCURRYING AWAY FROM THE WAVES

VARIETIES OF JELLYFISH

Hurricane Isaac, which ransacked the Gulf of Mexico at the end of August 2012, took with it significant amounts of the powder pink sand from Clearwater all the way down to St Pete Beach and beyond. Machines, boats and pipes are hard at work bringing in sand from the depths of the Gulf and redistributing it along the beaches in an effort to restore what was indiscriminately taken with unabated force.

In the mornings, as the night's storms dissipate, a beautiful sunrise bestows the early riser with a gift from beyond the horizon. And, then again as the sun journeys once more toward the West, its hues of red, orange, blues and purples, and all the shades in between, provide the observer with another gift of the cycle of life.

SUNRISE OVER THE INTERCOASTAL WATERWAY

ANOTHER SUNRISE OVER
THE INTERCOASTAL WATERWAY

SUNSET - GULF OF MEXICO

SUNSET BLUES AND PURPLES

ONE MORE SUNSET - GULF OF MEXICO

SWAYING TO THE RHYTHM OF THE SETTING SUN

Ursula Handleigh

2012-09-11T16:01:00.000-05:00

Based around a residency in Syracuse, NY at SPARK Contemporary, Adrienne Crossman and Ursula Handleigh created work responding to their surroundings.

See this exhibition September 14th at 7 p.m. at XPACE Cultural Centre, 58 Ossington Avenue, Toronto.

Humber River Art: Part II

2012-08-16T16:54:00.002-05:00

By Irene Fantopoulos

I took a walk over to the Humber Bridge today to see if any progress had been made since last week regarding the completion of the interactive sculpture of two squids suspended off the arch of the Bridge. I couldn't tell if I was looking at the final product as there was a sign saying there is more to come.

Colourful globes that appear to be Christmas decorations, are threaded through the wires. I believe they depict water bubbles coming out of the mouths of the squid. That's my guess.

I wasn't sure if squids are native to the waters of Lake Ontario, so I googled it, but other than the mention of giant squid, ready for a sci-fi movie, I could find no confirmation. If anyone knows, please send a note.

Here are a few pictures of the sculpture on an overcast, humid afternoon.

I understand that there will be lights at night, but that's another trip. Perhaps Part III?

Not to be outdone by man-made art, mother nature also has beautiful gifts to bestow upon us in the final throes of August where summer's colour is at its peak. Here is some of her art vying for attention.

Humber River Art

2012-08-11T15:20:00.000-05:00

By Irene Fantopoulos

Here's what's going on in the Humber River these days. I've written about this area in previous blogs. The news this week is that new interactive art will be added to the Humber River Bridge.

The art is a gift to the City of Toronto, Ontario, Canada by a group of local volunteer artists along with interactive arts which will be on display over the next two months on the iconic Humber River Bridge, shown above. Pictures of the art to follow in the coming days.

They are looking for contributions as all of the work: the mounting, the rental of equipment and the art itself is donated for free. Click on the links below where you can check out their video describing the project, their next steps and what contribution you can make!

Humber River Discoveries

2012-07-18T19:00:00.001-05:00

by Irene Fantopoulos

There is so much natural beauty just beyond the shores of Lake Ontario, that I feel it is incumbent upon me to share my Humber River trails discoveries to the west of the City of Toronto in Canada.

This time, my explorations led me to dedications and monuments that pay tribute to people who have left their mark upon Canadian soil over the years. Some are known. Many are unknown.

Humber Bridge Looking West

Palace Pier

Base of Original Palace
Pier Footing

Just to the west of the Humber Bridge, I came upon the ruins of what was once the original Palace Pier, a 300 foot long amusement pier with Moroccan-style architecture, finished in 1941. It became synonymous with the Big Band era during World War II and the ensuing years. The pier was destroyed by fire in 1963. Today, two condominium towers stand tall, overlooking Lake Ontario and the ghosts of the amusement pier.

Queen Mother Monument
Close-up

Queen Mother Monument
from Humber Bridge

Queen Mother Monument

Going over the bridge toward the east (toward downtown Toronto), a concrete obelisk with a crown atop it, stands tall amid the lush greenery. This structure was rededicated to the Queen Mother in 1989 to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Queen Elizabeth Way, Canada's first super highway in 1939.

Bust of Gzowski

Half a kilometre east lies the monument that houses the bust of Casimir Stanislaus Gzowski. Gzowski was born to a Roman Catholic family in St. Petersbourg, Russia in 1813. Although he first emigrated to the United States, he came to Canada in 1841 where he had significant influence over the building of Canadian railways. Gzowski was a public figure, an entrepreneur and strongly affiliated with the Canadian military. He died in Toronto in 1898. He is buried at the St. James Cemetery near Parliament and Bloor, in Toronto.

Gzowski Monument

Fountain, Sunnyside Bathing Pavilion

Sunnyside Pavilion,
South Side

Walking along the boardwalk one finds the Sunnyside Bathing Pavilion, built in 1917. It is one of the few remaining buildings of that era in this area. Today, the Pavilion houses a restaurant where jazz is on offer during the summer months. Sometimes there are art exhibits on the premises. There is also access to the Gus Ryder olympic-sized public pool from the Pavilion. Helps to cool us off during the hot and humid Toronto summers.

To the east of the Gus Ryder pool are a plaque and a park dedicated on August 16, 1984 to Marilyn Bell, the first swimmer to cross Lake Ontario on September 8 and 9th, 1954. She was 16 years old. Her crossing took 20 hours and 55 minutes. She started from Youngstown (New York state), at the mouth of the Niagara River, and ended at the breakwater just to the west of the Canadian National Exhibition in her hometown, Toronto.

These are all great contributors to Canada's history. But sadness lies to the west in the Humber Bay Park East where on June 23, 2007, a memorial site was dedicated to the 329 passengers and crew who perished in the bombing of Air India Flight 182 on June 23, 1983. The names of the victims are inscribed on a wall that is reminiscent of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. On the site is a sundial pointing in the direction of Ireland, where the aircraft's passengers met their untimely death in the Atlantic Ocean.

Air India Memorial Sundial

Air India Memorial Wall

Some other natural discoveries along the route.

Read more on the Humber River and other discoveries along its shores. Click here.

Jumping the Weir at the Étienne Brûlé Park, Ontario, Canada

2012-06-25T18:04:00.002-05:00

Étienne Brûlé Park, runs parallel to and along the West and East sides of the Humber River. It is named after Étienne Brûlé (c. 1592 – c. June 1633), an early French explorer in the Toronto, Ontario, Canada area.

The park is accessible by car from Old Mill Road or by public transit to the Old Mill subway station or, one can walk to it from either Pasadena Gardens or Lundy Avenue.

The Park boasts seasonal fishing by the dam, pedestrian and bicycle paths. In the fall, from about the end of September to early October, one can view the spectacular voyage of hundreds of salmon attempting to swim upstream or jumping the progressively higher weirs to their spawning grounds. Their journey along the Humber River begins at the mouth of Lake Ontario and goes as far north as the Oak Ridges Moraine.

There is however, a threat to the river life -- the lamprey eel. Two Fisheries Department staff were testing the water for this invasive predator. The lamprey eel originates from oceanic waters and can overrun the natural habitat.

The beautiful Old Mill Road Bridge, built in 1916, overlooks the Humber River and offers a wonderful backdrop for anglers and pedestrians alike.

Spring: A Time of Awakening Along the Shores of Lake Ontario

2012-05-23T19:39:00.001-05:00

Humans and birdlife alike, share the bounty found along the Martin Goodman Trail along the shores of Lake Ontario in Toronto, Ontario.

The Trail is 20 kilometres long and runs from the Humber River, near the Palace Pier in the west, to just west of Victoria Park in the east. The focus here is the part of the Trail that starts near the Grand Harbor condominium complex in the west to the Sunnyside Pavilion Cafe in the east, about six kilometres.

Boardwalk looking west toward Palace Pier

Swan tending to the gulls

The path boasts two main watercourses: the Humber River and Mimico Creek. The Humber River is a tributary of Lake Ontario and runs to the west of the City of Toronto. Although the main artery of the Humber River runs approximately 100km (from the Niagara Escarpment in the northwest to Lake St. George in the Oak Ridges Moraine near Aurora to the northeast), many creeks and tributaries feed into it.

Mimico Creek is 33 kilometres long. It starts in Brampton, Ontario and flows south into Lake Ontario.

Along the trail, and certainly all along the shoreline, one will find a multitude of ducks, geese and gulls. Graceful swans float along the lake like a well-orchestrated ballet. The Great Blue Heron has a habitat near Mimico Creek. The Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat, which is home to six different types of butterflies, including the majestic Monarch, is also found in the area.

SWANS

To the east is the iconic CN Tower. To the west, the City of Hamilton. On a clear day one can see the plume from Niagara Falls.

Sunrise in the City of Toronto

The CN Tower

The CN Tower from Humber Bay Shore

In the coming weeks there will be a burgeoning of flowers which will rise from their winter slumber and infuse the area with hues of purple, white, yellow and shades in between.

Flora

A couple of swans

There are many people throughout the day walking their dogs, cycling, walking, jogging and sunbathing. Singles, couples and groups partake of nature's wonders.

I leave you with a few photos for your enjoyment.

Boardwalk looking east toward
the Sunnyside Pavilion Cafe

A couple of ducks

Ducks, geese and
gulls in harmony

The Humber River Bridge

Grand Harbour Marina

Lighthouse at the
Grand Harbour Marina

Goose

Great Blue Heron

Mimico Creek

Looking east toward the City of Toronto

"Swan Lake"

Sailing along the Lake

Sunrise on the Lake

Yoga Retreat in Prince Edward County, Ontario

2012-05-07T12:03:00.000-05:00

Between April 28 - 30, 2012, I spent three wonderful days at a yoga retreat in Prince Edward County, Ontario. The setting was idyllic and far from the din of city life. There's a lot to be said for a pastoral lifestyle, that's for sure.

For the first time, I tried restorative and kundalini yoga styles, both of which I enjoyed immensely. They are very different from the Hatha and Ashtanga traditions with which I am familiar.

As part of the retreat, I enjoyed a bonfire with 14 other yoga practitioners. There was a cold arctic air sweeping off Lake Ontario, but plenty of blankets and warm woolies shielded us from the wind. But we all come from hardy Canadian stock - a little cold never stopping us from enjoying the outdoors. The fireside chat was inspiring as stories from all walks of life were shared around the fire.

Although not particularly traditional for yoga retreats, the food at the resort was superb and included meat entrees not just vegetarian ones. A wine-tasting from a local winery was on offer.

Overall, the experience was great, and more so because it was not your typical yoga retreat.

Read my interview with Yoga Instructor, Jayme Gianola at WhatsFab Online Magazine.

Super Moon - May 5, 2012

2012-05-07T11:00:00.002-05:00

If you didn't happen to see the Super Moon on Saturday May 5, 2012, here are a few photos for your enjoyment.

Peter Maher: Follows his Passion through Art

2012-05-07T09:46:00.002-05:00

IF: This month, Around the World Travel Blog welcomes Peter Maher, painter, artist and world traveller. Thank you for joining me today, Peter.

PM: Thank you, Irene.

IF: When did you begin painting?

PM: The earliest painting that I have is one that I did when I was around five years old. I have drawn and painted ever since. My first job was in the royalty department of a publishing house in London, England. This meant I had to write royalty statements in ink with a dip-in pen. One day the owner came by and noticed some scribblings on the blotter and suggested that I apply for the newly vacated job of book designer. From here, I eventually moved on to art director and freelance graphic designer and left London for Toronto. Eventually I freelanced and occasionally did a bit of painting. In 1989 I moved to France until 1991 and, during this time, I worked on renovating a French farm house for an English painter and then started painting with him. When I returned to Toronto I tried to paint one day a week. I moved to France in 2006 and have painted full-time ever since.

IF: What media do you use for your painting?

PM: I use oil for my paintings but I also sketch in oil, watercolour and coloured pencil.

IF: Which artist, alive or dead, would you say has had the most influence on your work?

PM: Initially it was Van Gogh but I greatly admire David Hockney, Peter Doig and a local painter, Vincent Bioulés.

IF: How do you get your inspiration? For example, your “Van” series.

PM: I find that I use painting to help me make sense of the world. When I first arrived in France, I painted the landscape which allowed me to explore the country and the culture. Why were vineyards here? Why were fields a certain shape? Why had people settled here? Then I noticed all these white vans in the landscape and wondered why were they there? What were the people doing? Why was the Pizza van not there on Mondays? Why did the truck loaded with new vans park by the highway all day on Sundays?

IF: What are you working on currently?

PM: I am starting a new series of portraits of people that I deal with here in France - the hairdresser, the mechanic for my scooter, my baker and the waiter in my local café. I have also done a series of monoprints of London stations and a series of drawings based on a train journey from Toronto to Vancouver. I like working on series of paintings.

IF: Can you explain the process or journey you undergo in creating your paintings?

PM: I use anything and everything from sketches, cut out references from magazines to photographs. These days, I do most of my paintings in the studio.

IF: I understand that you enjoy travelling. Do you paint when you travel or do you reserve that for your retreat in France?

PM: I usually travel with a sketchbook upon which I do watercolours, drawings and paste in various bits and pieces, tickets, pictures, etc. I am currently thinking about buying an iPad to use as a sketchbook.

IF: What is it like to live in the Hérault in the Languedoc region in the south of France?

PM: Wonderful. It is all to do with the pace and quality of life.

IF: What are some of the more interesting places to which you have travelled?

PM: I'm not always so interested in the places that I have visited, I am interested more in the journey. However, I frequently go to London for a big city fix. In May, I will be in New York City. I hope to travel to Istanbul in September; and Australia in January/February, 2013.

IF: Do you have any other interests that you would like to share with us?

PM: Besides painting, I read quite a lot. I do not have a television, but I enjoy listening to podcasts. I am also enjoying learning a new language and have recently become involved in my new neighbourhood association.

IF: Any final thoughts or comments that you would like to leave with our readers?

PM: Always follow your passion!

IF: Where can our readers get more information about your work?

PM: They can go directly to my website where they will be able to contact me and have a look at my extensive collection of paintings.

IF: Thank you for joining us today. AroundtheWorldTravelBlog wishes you much success with your painting!

PM: Thank you for taking the time to speak with me.

What is your passion? Please comment below.

Dining at Del Posto, Manhattan (New York City)

2012-04-15T06:57:00.001-05:00

By Irene Fantopoulos

Del Posto Ristorante is located on 85 10th Avenue near what is known as the Meat Packing District, just south of Chelsea and near the High Line Park. It is the brainchild of renowned chefs and entrepreneurs Joe Bastianich, Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali.

The surroundings are elegant, converted from what was once an Oreo cookie factory. The establishment would never be recognized by the original designers or former Nabisco owners. The exterior is fairly non-descript, but the interior spares no detail. From the elegant staircase that leads to the upper dining area, to the traditional furniture, to the dark woods, all unite to create a lush ambiance. There are many tables, but don’t be deceived, as reservations are always recommended.

The staff are attentive to your every need. There is a sommelier to guide your wine selection that can be individualized for each course. There is a stool on which to place your purse or your bags, so that they don’t lie perilously on the floor. Staff are at the ready to answer any question that you might have, including personally escorting you to the rest room. The service was second to none. It is this attention to detail that will have you talking about your dining experience for months to come.

The meal itself is truly a feast, modeled in the likeness of an Italian wedding - you know the one you’ve been to with an eight-course extravaganza. There are two course options: a five- or seven-course meal with wine pairings. Two of us shared the five-course meal and believe me, it was more than enough. The courses are well-paced and made with fresh local ingredients, where possible. The sumptuous concoctions rest on the palate like their fine selection of wine.

When nearing the end of the meal, no attention to detail is spared. A complimentary dessert of spuntini or merende (small bites) and a small box of truffles for the ladies on the way out, add a special finish to a wonderful celebration of Italian haute cuisine. Compliments to the chef for putting together such an eclectic feast.

Batali and the Bastianich's have a gem here.

The Greek Bucket List - Are these on Yours?

2012-04-07T07:28:00.000-05:00

Written by: Irene Fantopoulos

We’ve seen many lists on just about everything. What we haven’t seen is Greek things to do before you die.

Check out my top picks for the Greek bucket list.

Meteora

These overwhelming rock towers are the site of a Monastery that dates back to the Byzantine era. The Monastery seems precariously positioned atop a cliff, but has been there for centuries. The rock structure is found in the northwest corner of Thessaly.

The Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum in Athens was built in 2003 and is found at the foot of the Acropolis. The Museum houses masterpieces of ancient Greek civilizations and art, including sculptures, friezes, and figurines.

Every weekend, the Acropolis Museum features 3D projections. The on-site restaurant has a special menu every Friday night until 12 midnight.

Here’s a link to the official site for more information.

Enjoy a Beautiful Sunset in Oia, Santorini

Wrap yourself in the perfect sunset in the town of Oia in Santorini. The island of Santorini is located in the southern Aegean Sea. Santorini is the result of a massive volcanic explosion. Oia, built on the volcanic rock and is located in the southwestern-most point of the island. Oia draws hundreds of thousands of tourists each year as they make their way through the meandering, cobble-stoned streets to enjoy the spectacular view of the setting sun. It is also one of the most romantic places in the world. Here are a few photos for your enjoyment.

See Comedians Angelo Tsarouchas and Ellen Karis

These are two of the funniest Greek comedians that we have who are known around the world by Greeks and others alike. The two comedians provide a hilarious delivery of the Greek Diaspora. Tsarouchas hails from Montreal, Canada. Here’s a youTube video featuring Tsarouchas, for your enjoyment.

Karis grew up in New York City. Here’s a youTube video featuring her comedy.

The Ruins of Knossos in Crete

The Minoan ruins at the ancient Palace of Knossos in Crete, is a must. This archaeological site was discovered in 1900 by Arthur Evans. The Palace is deemed to be from the Bronze Age and was the epicentre of culture, politics and social activity of the Minoan peoples. The Palace is located 5 km southeast of Heraklion on the hill of Kephala.

Greek Orthodox Church in Jerusalem

This ancient church is considered to be the “main church” of all Greek Orthodox churches. It was the birth of the church following the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The church’s hierarchy is dominated by the Greek clergy.

Catch a play at Epidaurus, Greece

See a play of the Greek classics in the acoustically sound ancient Epidaurus in the Peloponnese. The plays are part of the Hellenic Festival, which runs every year from May to October.

Pick Olives Alongside Greek Farmers

Step away from your day-to-day modern comforts and experience the ancient craft of olive picking.

There are many farms across Greece that offer an opportunity to pick olives either for pay or pleasure. There are even holidays created around this elixir of the Gods. www.olivepicking.com offers holidays for just this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Discover the Lost City of Atlantis

Many believe that the answer to the legendary Lost City of Atlantis lies on the sea bed near the caldera that is known as Santorini. There are also excavations of an ancient Minoan civilization in the area of Santorini known as Akrotiri which may indeed be evidence of Atlantis.

If you’ve done any or all of these, then you’re well ahead of the rest of us.