Santa Fe Travelers

5 Free things to do in Hong Kong

Varied — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 17:07:59 +0000

While Hong Kong has some of the highest accommodation prices anywhere in the world, the city still has a lot to offer those on a budget. Because the minimum wage in Hong Kong 34.5HKD per hour (approximately $4.40 USD), there is a need to cater to Hong Kongers who don’t have cash to spare. The result is a city with a multitude of free attractions and things to do that won’t cost you a penny. Here are five of the best free things to do in Hong Kong.

Museums

Hong Kong Museum of History, one of Hong Kong’s many museums located in Hung Hom, photo courtesy Curious Atlas

Hong Kong has some fantastic museums. While most museums charge a nominal fee, many of Hong Kong’s museums offer free entry on Wednesdays, including the brilliant Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong History Museum, both located in Hung Hom. The equally great Hong Kong Space museum is about 10 minutes away, towards Hong Kong harbour. The Hong Kong History Museum offers an intriguing look at the city’s development from its start as a simple non-descript fishing village to the huge metropolis the city is today. You will see the extent the city has changed in the past 100 years. The Hong Kong Science Museum is a fun filled day for children and adults alike. The museum features over 400 displays, most of which are hands on and interactive. The Space Museum also has interactive exhibits that people of all ages will enjoy. There are numerous other museums deserving a visit dotted all over Hong Kong, including the Hong Kong Art Museum, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, the obscure Hong Kong Museum of Ethnology in Tai Po to the Hong Kong Correctional Services Museum in Stanley. There’s bound to be a museum for everyone!

Abandoned Hong Kong

View of Tsing Ma Bridge from the deserted fishing village of Ma Wan, photo/courtesy Curious Atlas

While Hong Kong is not known for its abandoned suburbs in the same way that Tokyo is, there are several enclaves that are virtual ghost towns. Surprising in a city with some of the highest housing prices in the world! One abandoned area is in Ma Wan, a small island once a thriving fishing and shrimping village. Upon completion of the Tsing Ma Bridge, the area was ‘upgraded’ to a luxury suburb. As a result all the residents of the dilapidated Ma Wan were bought out or relocated in an attempt to gentrify the area. The plan hasn’t yet materialized. The result: an abandoned town which is fascinating to explore. Some houses are sealed off with no trespassing signs: however, others are easily accessible. The area has an eerie feel, but is a great exploration ground especially if you’re into photography. Many Hong Kongers come down to take their pre-wedding photographs here.

Flower Market

Hong Kong Flower Market is in full bloom at any time of year, photo/ourtesy Curious Atlas

Hong Kong has a street for everything you want to buy, from flowers to electronics and even meat or birds. One of the most interesting is Flower Market Street, home to dozens of flower shops and wholesalers. Even for a non-flower enthusiast, it’s a fascinating place to spend a morning admiring the arrangements on display. If you really want to see the best flower displays imaginable then it’s worth going on a holiday, such as Valentine’s Day or Chinese New Year when you’ll see throngs of Hong Konger’s choosing flowers to bring them luck for the upcoming year. Expect to see lots of bright colours, especially reds, as these are considered to be particularly lucky. The Market is open from 7:30am seven days a week, and closes around 5pm.

Victoria Peak

View from Victoria Peak offers a stunning panorama of Hong Kong, photo/courtesy Curious Atlas

No visit to Hong Kong is complete without a trip up to Victoria Peak. This viewpoint, close to the built up centre of the city, offers unrivaled views over Hong Kong Island. If you’re there at 8pm you can witness the nightly Symphony of Lights, named the “World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show” by the Guinness Book of World Records. Spotlights and coloured lasers light up over 40 buildings in a show celebrating Hong Kong’s diversity and energy. The show is spectacular! While many take the 12-minute journey up the peak on the funicular, it’s completely possible to avoid the crowds and climb to the top. The 552-meter Old Peak Road, located at the rear of the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, takes you to the viewpoint. Beware, it’s a tough walk and the road is steep and winding; bring water if you’re ascending in summer. The view is worth the effort!

Hiking

The view from the top of Hong Kong’s iconic Lion rock, photo/courtesy Curious Atlas

Despite being one of the world’s most densely populated cities, Hong Kong is home to some world class hiking. Unless you’ve gotten out and explored the country parks you can’t claim to have seen Hong Kong in all its splendour. The city has a great variety of hiking trails. From remote hikes in Sai Kung (you need a boat to reach the trails) to hikes such Lion Rock, that start in the crowded suburbs of Tai Wai or Wong Tai Sin. You’re never far away from some truly spectacular scenery. Tai Mo Shan is Hong Kong’s highest and most interesting peak to hike. The hike up this extinct volcano is fascinating in its own right. The rocks leading up to the summit still vent hot air which the locals refer to as’ Dragons Breath’. Wherever you’re staying in Hong Kong there’s bound to be an interesting hike within easy reach.

What are your favorite free things to do in Hong Kong?

Here are some suggestions from National Geographic.

UK native William Maddicott now lives in Hong Kong where he works arranging holidays for expats living in Asia. When he’s not working he’s busy exploring Asia’s hidden gems. His travel advice to young backpackers and those travelling on a budget has been published in The Guardian. His blog, Curious Atlas, is a personal account of some of the world’s best hidden sights and attractions. You can also keep up to date with him on Facebook.

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A Taste of Santa Fe with Food Tour New Mexico

Billie Frank — Mon, 19 Jun 2017 23:08:24 +0000

We were invited to take Food Tour New Mexico’s Taste of Santa Fe Tour. We know the Santa Fe dining scene well, why would we take a food tour? Not only were we curious about the tour we wanted to be able to share the experience with clients and readers. Why would you take a food tour? My short answer is a food tour is a great way to get a sense of a city’s food scene whether you’re visiting or you live there. Two things can make or break your tour: the guide and the restaurants visited. The guide should be engaging and restaurants should be worthy of a visit. A good food tour should be about more than eating; you can do that on your own. You want an experience that you’ll remember. Optimally your guide will be sharing his/her city with you and the restaurants will give you more than a tasty morsel; you’ll get to meet the people behind the scenes. Food Tour New Mexico does well with both counts.

Starting our tour

We meet our guide Carlos Zozaya at the Plaza. He greets us tells us this is his first day on the job, “I’m really nervous, I’ll be training today,” he jokes. In truth, this chef who’s a veteran of several respected Santa Fe kitchens has been doing this for a bit over a year. Before we set off he tells us a little bit about Food Tour New Mexico.

A bit of Food Tour New Mexico history

Carlos Zozaya (left) and Nick Peña, photo/Steve Collins

Food Tour New Mexico was started in 2011 by Santa Fe native Nick Peña. It was a tough time in his life. Since his father passed away in 2008, Nick, an artist and musician, was at loose ends. He knew he wanted to do something he could succeed at that would keep him in Santa Fe. During a 2011 visit to Phoenix friends who were starting a food tour business a light bulb clicked on for Nick. This was something he could enjoy doing. Food was something he loved. “In our culture,” he shared, “feeding people is a sign of love, comfort and a way to care for each other.” He remembers watching his great grandmother, Adela Montaño, in the kitchen when he was a young boy. Later, he learned love food and cooking watching his grandmother prepare family meals. As a food lover he “couldn’t think of anything better than a culinary tour that utilizes the city as a resource, helps to stimulate the economy, and allows our culture to shine,” he wrote. The food tour’s concept reminded him of progressive dinners he enjoyed with his family when relatives visited from out of town. The extended family would have appetizers in one eatery, entrees in another and visit a third for dessert. This gave the visitors a bigger picture of Santa Fe’s food and culture Santa Fe. “What we do on our tours,” he shared, “is not much different than what I would do when we have family visiting from out of town.” The food tour idea seeded, he was off and running. It took three years of hard work before it really took off, but now it’s a big success.

The tour

La Casa Sena

La Casa Sena’s Patio, photo Steve Collins

Our first stop, which has since been replaced, was for an appetizer at La Casa Sena. We had a delicious roasted poblano soup, but as it’s no longer on the tour, I’ll skip the details.

La Boca

Spanish sausage and asparagus tapa at La Boca, photo Billie Frank

Next it was on to La Boca, a popular Santa Fe tapas restaurant that is no longer on the tour. We sampled a tasty morsel made with Spanish sausage, almond puree, asparagus, roasted bell peppers and, chile oil and a few other ingredients accompanied by Cava, a sparkling Spanish wine.

The Hive Market

Mead, honey products and New Mexico specialty items at The Hive Market, photo/Steve Collins

On our way to our main course at Georgia, we stopped at The Hive Market for an intermezzo; a tasting of a range of local honey and mead. Each had its own distinct characteristics. The shopkeeper told us about each one in detail. Some of the group couldn’t resist buying some of the New Mexico-made food products that fill the shop.

Georgia

Flash-fried Brussels sprouts and red chile oil, raspberry jam lamb chop at Georgia, photo/Steve Collins

Carlos was a great guide. Between stops he regaled us with Santa Fe history and stories; continuing his repartee at each stop. As we walked to Georgia, he told us a bit about the restaurant, which he called it “a sort of Southern-style gastropub,” but qualified this description. “The executive chef Leroy, is in my personal opinion a mad scientist,” he shared. “He loves, loves, loves to use liquid nitrogen.” My take: it’s a cross between contemporary American fusion and a gastropub. Upon arrival we sat around the bar in the front room while Carlos headed off to the kitchen to let Chef Leroy know we’d arrived. He returned with what he called our “first course,” flash-fried Brussels sprouts served in communal dishes. The portion was HUGE and the sprouts were crispy and delicious, a fusion of unexpected flavors. Leroy told us the sprouts are tossed with apple cider vinegar and a bit of parmesan cheese, capers, prosciutto and dehydrated corn. Next up: perfectly-cooked red chile oil and raspberry jam lamb chops. We each got one Frenched chop, plated with roasted red cabbage and topped with a veal demi-glace. The chops, the cabbage and the Brussels sprouts worked well together. It was a feast! As Georgia is also a pub, before we left we were escorted to another bar where microbrews are on tap and sampled a few.

Santa Fe Oil & Balsamic Company

Michael Aranda talking to our group at the Santa Fe Olive Oil & Balsamic Co., photo Steve Collins

The walk between Georgia and our last stop, Kakawa Chocolate House, is a bit long. To break it up there’s a stop at Santa Fe Olive Oil & Balsamic Company on Don Gaspar. Owner, Michael Aranda, greeted our group and talked a bit about his shop which sells olive oils, balsamic vinegar (including New Mexico’s Traditional Aceto Balsamico of Monticello), gourmet salts as well as specialty foods. The group got to sample some olive oils and vinegars and then went on its way.

Kakawa Chocolate House

Elixir choices of the day are listed on the board at Kakawa Chocolate House, photo/Steve Collins

We arrived at Kakawa Chocolate House to end our tour with with cups of the New and Old World chocolate elixirs the shop is famous for. Before choosing, we’re able to sample all the day’s offerings. Then we sat and sipped our chocolate drinks. It was a great finale to an interesting culinary afternoon.

Fully sated, we bid Carlos and Nick goodbye and thank them. We both really enjoyed our Food Tour New Mexico experience.

If you go – a few things to know about the Food Tour New Mexico Taste of Santa Fe Tour

Tour stops are ever-changing. Two stops from our tour have been replaced. La Casa Sena was replaced with ELOISA at the Drury Plaza Hotel and La Boca was replaced by Santacafe. Full tour information is on the Food Tour New Mexico website.
Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking.
If you enjoy your tour, tip your guide, it’s always appreciated!
You will find the other tours the company offers on their website. Besides Santa Fe they offer food tours in Albuquerque.

You can read more about Kakawa in our post on The Santa Fe Chocolate Trail.
This has been food tour season. Read about our tour with Wander New Mexico.

Author’s note: We were guests of Food Tour New Mexico. Their generosity didn’t affect this post in any way. If we hadn’t enjoyed the tour we wouldn’t have written about it. Please note that the tour has changed since we took it. We know the two restaurants now included on the tour and are confident they’re doing a good job. If not, let us know.

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Experience the Santa Fe Summer of Art

Billie Frank — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 21:23:14 +0000

Santa Fe is steeped in art. With over 200 galleries and a host of art museums it’s a haven for artists and collectors. This summer the museums and galleries have stepped up their game and we’ve dubbed the summer of 2017 the Santa Fe Summer of Art. The city’s museums have outdone themselves with a host of exhibitions that are part of the year-long Santa Fe Celebrate Global Art and Culture 2017. This summer The City Different is home to two international exhibitions as well as a show paying homage to Frida Kahlo and one that honors the misnamed genre of tramp art. In addition there are gallery shows and art markets to catch the interest of art aficionados of all kinds. And, if art isn’t your thing, there’s plenty more to keep you busy.

Frida Kahlo in Santa Fe

Nickolas Muray’s “Frida Kahlo with Magenta Rebozo” photo/Steve Collins

We were blown away by Mirror, Mirror… Photographs of Frida Kahlo, at the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art. More than 50 photographs, lent by gallerist Spencer Throckmorton of Throckmorton Fine Art in NYC, trace the artist’s life from age 18 in 1925 to her death in 1954. Penelope Hunter-Stiebel, curator of the exhibit, arranged photos taken by Lola and Manuel Alvarez Bravo, Imogen Cunningham, Carl Van Vechten and Nickolas Murray among others, in sections that reflect aspects the artist’s life and work. The result is both visually stunning and emotionally moving. The show chronicles Kahlo’s family life, her artistic career, her health issues (she had polio as a child and was severally injured in a 1925 bus accident) and her tempestuous relationship with muralist Diego Rivera. Two rooms add splashes of color to the mostly black and white exhibition. One is devoted to photos of Casa Azul, the Kahlo family home in the Coyoacán section of Mexico City, taken by Santa Fe photographer William Frej. The other is the room displaying the often whimsical pieces created by Spanish Market artists especially for this show in homage to Kahlo. The exhibition runs through Sunday, October 29^th.

Prado Museum Show

The Prado in Santa Fe in Cathedral Park, photo/Steve Collins

We always love taking a leisurely stroll through Cathedral Park. It’s usually a quiet oasis in the middle of Santa Fe’s bustling downtown. This summer the park has come alive. The Prado, Madrid’s esteemed museum with its superb collection of art, has arrived in town, sort of. They’ve sent 92 full-scale mounted reproductions of masterpieces in their collection including work of Spanish, Flemish, Dutch, French, and German painters from the 14^th to 19^th centuries. Paintings on view include Fra Angelico’s The Annunciation, Titian’s Philip II, Hieronymous Bosch’s masterwork The Garden of Earthly Delights and Francisco de Goya’s The 3rd of May 1808 in Madrid. It’s not quite like seeing these great works in person, but it’s fun. A pre-sunset stroll through the park is the perfect time to view these in the heat of summer. The light will still be good and the day will have cooled down. The Prado in Santa Fe runs through October.

British Museum drawings on view

Exhibiion curator Isabel Seligman of the Britins Museum with Giovanni Barrista Piranesi’s “Interior of a Circular Building.” photo/Steve Collins

Lines of Thought: Drawing from Michelangelo to Now: from the British Museum, currently at the New Mexico Museum of Art examines, according to the museum’s website, “the many ways artists have used drawing as a means of recording and provoking thought from the fifteenth century to today.” Santa Fe is one of only two United States cities to display the exhibition. In the past, whn I gave any thought to how a painting was created, I would picture an artist, brush in hand standing in front of a canvas contemplating what to do next. It never occurred to me how much planning goes into a work of art. After seeing this exhibit that has preliminary sketches for Michelangelo’s Last Judgment, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Virgin and Christ Child with a Cat, and Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon as well as studies from Albrecht Dürer, Paul Cézanne and Henry Moore I realize that a lot of planning and preliminary drawing go into the finished work. There’s also work from British artist Bridget Riley whose Bridget Riley Art Foundation was the catalyst for this exhibition. It’s fascinating to walk through the exhibition, arranged into themes by the show’s curator Isabel Seligman, and see preliminary drawings for some of the most famous art in the world. Sadly, these drawings were kept in storage at the British Museum and will return there once the exhibition returns to London. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to view these sketches. The show runs through September 17^th.

Tramp Art

A spectacular piece of contemporary tramp art by Freeland Tanner, photo Steve Collins

No Idle Hands: The Myths & Meanings of Tramp Art at the Museum of International Folk Art explores the misnamed genre of tramp art. Frances Lichten, the woman who came up with the name thought the pieces had been created by itinerants and hobos. It turns out she was wrong. Tramp art, which thrived between the 1870s and 1940s, was created mostly by immigrants using discarded materials, often cigar boxes and shipping crates. They notch-carved the wood along the edges and then layered to create usable objects and artworks. While this art form thrived around the world, it really took off in the United States. Although most of the more than 150 pieces in the show are from the US, there are also works from France, Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavia, Canada, Mexico and Brazil. Tramp art mostly died out in the 1940s but there are still a few practitioners. Don’t miss the spectacular contemporary examples of the genre by Napa artist, Freeland Tanner. The show runs through September 16, 2018.

The Counterculture in New Mexico

Vintage VW bus (we had the identical one) from “Voices of Counter Culture,” photo/Steve Collins

Voices of Counterculture in the Southwest at the New Mexico History Museum chronicles the political climate of the times during the late 1960s into the 1970s in general with a focus on alternative life-styles in New Mexico in particular. Young people from around the country, often called “hippies,” arrived in Northern New Mexico to set up or join existing intentional communities. These communes, where they could live off the land together, or so they hoped, included New Buffalo, the Lama Foundation in Taos, the Hog Farm in Llano near Truchas on the High Road to Taos, Placitas, south of Santa Fe and the religion-based Hacienda de Guru Ram Das Ashram in Española north of Santa Fe. The exhibition uses archival footage, oral histories, photos, ephemera and artifacts such as clothing, a VW bus and a wood cook stove to examine this cultural revolution. For me, it was a visit to the past. It covered the Vietnam War protests with a photo of two that I took part in: one in NYC and one in Washington, DC as well as the infamous Woodstock where I planned to be until they closed the roads. This is a must-see for the boomer generation and the generations ahead of us. For us it’s a piece of our past. Later generations can enjoy this but for them it’s only a piece of history. The exhibition runs until February 11, 2018.

These museum exhibitions are the highlights of the Santa Fe summer of art, but they’re only the beginning. Three annual summer art markets (Folk Art Market, Spanish Market and Indian Market) bring visitors and art collectors from around the country and the world. In addition there are gallery shows, weekly art markets and other not-to-miss cultural events,such as the Santa Fe Opera and the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival. The Santa Fe summer of art is the perfect time to plan a visit. Will you heed the call?

More hot reasons to visit Santa Fe this summer.

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5 Free things to do in Amsterdam

Varied — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 22:26:21 +0000

5 Free things to do in Amsterdam was contributed by travel blogger Bianca Bauza of Nomadbiba

With its world-class museums, vibrant streets and picture perfect canals, Amsterdam is one of the top city destinations in Europe. However, the Dutch capital is definitely not one of the cheapest places you can visit. But don’t fret. You can also find some great free things to do in Amsterdam. These are just a few.

Stroll Around the Canals

Stroll along Amsterdam’s canals. photo/Nomadbiba

Amsterdam, with more canals than Venice, features an impressive network of both canals and bridges. The canal belt was built around the old city center during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17^th century. In 2010, Amsterdam’s canal Ring Area was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These 400-year-old waterways are great to explore on foot or by bike.

Listen to a Free Concert at the Concertegebouw

Take advantage of free concerts at Concertgebouw, photo/Nomadbiba

The Concertgebouw, one of the most exclusive concert halls in the world, offers exceptional acoustics and excellent programmes. The free concerts take place on Wednesdays from 12:30pm to 1pm from mid-September to June. Some of these performances are public rehearsals. If you are lucky, you might end up listening to the world famous Koninklijk Concertgebouw Orchestra for free.

Relax at the Vondelpark

A view at the Vondelpark, photo/Nomadbiba

The Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s main green space, is one of the city’s main attractions. Located just west of the Museumplein, the park covers an area of 47 hectares and features a rose garden, several ponds and a wide variety of local and foreign plant species. In summer, the open-air theatre offers great music, dance, theatre and stand up comedy programmes. Please note, entry is free but voluntary donations are appreciated.

Wander Around the Gardens of the Rijksmuseum

Entrance to the gardens at the Rijksmuseum is free, photo/Nomadbiba

If you don’t feel like paying the entrance fee for the Rijksmuseum, you can still enjoy some great art while strolling around its gardens. Entrance to the outdoor baroque and renaissance style gallery is free. Each summer there is an outdoor sculpture display dedicated to a specific artist. From July 1st to October 1, 2017 twelve monumental sculptures by French artist Jean Dubuffet will be on display. And do not forget to take a photo with the iconic Amsterdam sign.

Enjoy Street Art

Enjoy Amsterdam.’s street art, photo/Nomadbiba

Even though street art in Amsterdam might not be as conspicuous as in other European cities, its urban art scene is alive and kicking. Street art in the city center, runs mostly to smaller art works. The intersection between the Spuistraat and Wijdesteeg is a good place to spot some stencil art and paste-ups. But if you want to see large-scale murals, you will have to venture further afield. The Street Art Museum Amsterdam (SAMA) in Amsterdam Nieuw-West is an impressive open-air gallery that showcases some great local and international artists. While there’s a charge for tours, admission is free. You can also hop on the ferry behind the Central Station to the NDSM-werf where you can walk around and see some interesting art.

There are many more free things to do in Amsterdam. What are your favorites?

Bianca Bauza is a world citizen who spent over three years traveling around South America and Europe. Her passions include photography, street art, outdoor sports, and cooking exotic dishes. She is currently based in the Netherlands. She shares her passion for travel on her blog, Nomadbiba. You can also follow her adventures on Instagram and Facebook.

What are your favorite free things to do in Amsterdam?

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Our picks for the 5 best things to do in Tucson, Arizona

Billie Frank — Fri, 09 Jun 2017 19:41:29 +0000

What are the five best things to do in Tucson? It depends on who you are. For us, they involve the landscape, art, food and history. But if you don’t share our sensibilities, the city offers a lot of other things to do. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as nature-watching, hiking and biking; explore scientific sites such as the Pima Air & Space Museum and Kitt Peak National Observatory; visit an art museum; check out Old Tucson, a movie studio/theme park where westerns were shot or walk through Tucson’s historic neighborhoods. Pretty much, something for everyone!

Saguaro cacti outside of Tucson, photo/Billie Frank

For us, the most amazing thing about Tucson is its desert landscape. The city sits at the northern end of the Sonoran Desert; the only place in the US that saguaro cactus grows. These majestic and otherworldly cacti are everywhere, growing as tall as 60 feet with up to 25 arms. Their lifespan can be as much as 200 years. They are totally worth the trip! But Tucson is more than its landscape. It’s got history, art, culture, outdoor activities and great food. Here are our picks for the five best things to do in Tucson.

Tohono Chul Park

Cacti and other lush plants at Tohono Chul, photo/Steve Collins

We’d heard about Tohono Chul Park (“Desert Elbow” in the language of the native Tohono O’odham people) from a number of travel bloggers so it was high our list of places to visit. On the drive from their gate to their parking lot we passed a profusion of saguaros; I had to get a few photos. Just before the ticket booth I discovered hummingbirds and butterflies hovering over a bunch of bushes. Both fascinate me and I could have stayed right there all day but we had a park to explore.

We slowly ambled through the park visiting a number of the gardens including the Sin Agua Garden (without water), a haven for plants that thrive in desert environments; the Sonoran Seasons Garden and the new Desert Palm Oasis, home to several species of native palms; the Butterfly Garden (an official Monarch way-station) attracts seasonally migrating Monarch butterflies. I mentioned that I love hummingbirds. Both the Penstemon Garden and the Hummingbird Garden (planted with salvia, desert honeysuckle, desert willow and many other flute-shaped flowers perfect for their long beaks to access) attract these tiny, hypnotic creatures with their constantly vibrating wings. Other gardens at Tohono Chul include the Demonstration Garden, the Ethnobotanical Garden, the Performance Garden and the Children’s Garden. There’s also an art museum and a café. Allow at least two hours for your visit although you could easily spend the entire day. If you want to spend the day, the Tohono Chul Garden Bistro serves breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and cocktails.

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

Can you spot the monarch butterfly I captured at Arizona Sonora Desert Museum? photo/Billie Frank

We found the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum by accident. We were headed for the Tucson Mountain District of Saguaro National Park west of the city. When we saw the sign for the desert museum we had to stop to check it out. Their mission: to interpret the Sonoran Desert and its varied biotic communities. The desert, which starts in southern Arizona and extends into southern California and central Mexico, is a treasure of flora, fauna, distinct landscapes and diverse ecosystems. About 85% of the museum’s exhibits are outdoors. There’s also a theater that hosts live animal presentations, an aquarium and an art institute and gallery. I got waylaid by the butterflies and hummingbirds. I spent way too much time in the hummingbird aviary watching these amazing creatures. Then spent a bunch of time in the butterfly garden (another certified Monarch way station), trying to photograph these elusive flyers. I could have stayed there all afternoon. My advice: allow at least two hours for your visit, though you could easily spend most of a day at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. Bring a picnic or eat at their food court or café or grab a something quick in their snack shop or coffee bar.

Visit Mission San Xavier del Bac

San Xavier del Bac, photo/Billie Frank

While the first official Spanish settlement in southern Arizona wasn’t until the mid 18^th century, the Catholic Church arrived in the area in the 17the century. Mission San Xavier del Bac, also known as the White Dove of the Desert, about 20 minutes southwest of Tucson, was founded in 1692 by Father Eusebio Kino. The mission, located on the Tohono O’odham reservation, is the oldest European building still standing in Arizona. It’s a beauty! The interior of the church is spectacular, especially the towering altar adorned with vividly-colored retablos and the frescoed ceiling. Hand-carved santos are spaced in nichos throughout the church. If you have time it’s worth taking the free tours offered Monday through Saturday mornings on the half-hour. The docents are very knowledgeable. We piggybacked on one and learned quite a lot about the mission’s history. Before leaving, check out the gift shop. The Tohono O’odham are known for their basketry. I treated myself to a lovely split-stitch basket. Hungry? Don’t leave without trying fry bread from one of the Tohono O’odham vendors in the parking lot.

Visit Tubac

Brightly painted metal flowers and garden decor in a Tubac shop. photo courtesy Elizabeth R. Rose

We didn’t get to Tubac because we ran out of time but it’s on our list for next Tucson visit. The small town, set in the Santa Cruz River Valley, was founded as a fort (presidio) by the Spanish in 1752. It’s the oldest European settlement in the Arizona. Today it’s known as an art colony. A short-lived, post WWII art school attracted artists to the area; many stayed and more came. The town’s motto: “Where Art and History Meet!” Today, over 100 shops, galleries, working studios and restaurants, most set in historic adobes, line the town’s quaint dirt roads. You can also visit the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and tour the ruins of the fort. If, like us, you’re a fan of Spanish Colonial missions Tumacácori National Historical Park is a few miles down the road. Here you’ll find the ruins of the oldest mission in Arizona, San José de Tumacácori, founded in 1691. Like hiking? There’s a 4-mile section of the 1,200 mile Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail that goes from Tubac to Tumacácori (but, remember, you have to walk back).

Eat a Sonoran hot dog

El Guero Canelo, photo Billie Frank

Almost anyplace you visit has a regional food that you just have to try. In Santa Fe it’s anything with chile, Philly has its cheese steak, NOLA its beignets, in Iowa it’s loose meat, Buffalo has its chicken wings and Chicago has deep dish pizza. Everyone who heard we were headed to Tucson said we had to try a Sonoran hot dog, so we did. We were told to go either BK Tacos or El Guero Canelo. After checking out both eateries’ websites we opted for El Guero. There was something about their less slick site appealed to us. We headed for their original 12^th Avenue location. El Guero Canelo (the blond guy) started as a hot dog cart in 1993 and claims to have introduced the Sonoran hot dog to Tucson. Whether they did or not, they sure got it right. What is a Sonoran hot dog? It’s a hot dog wrapped in bacon and grilled until crispy served in a steamed bolillo (pronounced boh-lee-yoh), a Mexican-style sweet-tasting roll. It’s topped with pinto beans, chopped tomatoes, grilled and raw onions, scallions, jalapeño salsa and mustard with an artistic squiggle of mayonnaise on top. All this came to a mere $2.78. Order at the window, get a number and wait to be called. Once you have your dog, stop at the buffet counter in the dining room to load cheese, pico de gallo, pickled onions, scallions or salsa verde onto you’re already full dog. We were both a bit hungry after our hot dogs and decided to split another. Our tip: if it’s busy order two per person, at that price you can afford it! If you find yourself with an extra dog you can probably give it away.

Where to stay

One of the historic guest buildings at Arizona Inn, photo/Steve Collins

A hotel can make or break a trip. We stayed in the historic Arizona Inn where the rich and famous once wintered. Today that lifestyle is gone, but the inn still attracts an upscale clientele. Other vintage lodgings (our favorite kind of place to stay) include the newly refurbished Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort or the trendy downtown Hotel Congress, built in 1919. Or perhaps you prefer something more contemporary or more budget-friendly. The range of Tucson hotels will meet just about every budget and travel-style.

If you don’t like really hot weather, visit Tucson in the winter months. We were there in late October; temperatures were in the 80s. If you want better hotel rates, visit during the summer but be prepared for daytime temperatures topping 100 degrees; it goes down into the 70s at night. We hope you check out our five best things to do in Tucson if your travels take you to this vibrant desert city. Maybe you’ll agree or perhaps you’ll come up with your own favorites. We fell in love with Tucson; maybe you will too. We’ll be back!

What do you think are the best things to do in Tucson?

Thanks to Elizabeth R. Rose of Southwest Liz

for the Tubac photo.

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Top 9 Free Things to do in Auckland, New Zealand

Varied — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 23:14:27 +0000

Top 9 Free Things to do in Auckland, New Zealand was contributed by travel blogger Nadine Maffre of Le Long Weekend.

Dubbed “the city of sails”, there is no doubt that Auckland is the perfect place for lovers of all things nautical. But it’s not only ‘boaties’ who’ll enjoy sampling the best of what Auckland has to offer. This vibrant city in the north island of New Zealand has something for everyone – and all budgets. Check out my top nine free things to do in Auckland.

Unleash Your Artistic Side

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, photo/ David St George courtesy Auckland Art Gallery

The centrally located Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki offers New Zealand’s largest visual arts experience. The gallery,, founded in 1888, houses collections of New Zealand and international art that runs from historic to contemporary art as well as awe-inspiring and inspirational art exhibitions. The gallery is open every day from 10am-5pm and free of charge.

Stretch your legs

Explore Auckland on foot on your own or take a free walking tour, photo /Le Long Weekend

There’s no better place than Auckland to ditch the car and hit the hiking trails. From tramping through the dramatic landscapes of Auckland’s Waitakere Ranges to walking the 16km long coast to coast trail, there are inspiring walks to suit every age and ability. Thanks to Auckland Free Walking Tours those wanting to explore the city can take part in a free walking tour of the city. The tours depart from Queens Wharf Village daily at 10am and take in some of Auckland’s most famous sights. Tours last approx 2.5 – 3hrs.

Delve into Devonport

The tree-lined waterfront at Deveonport. photo/Le Long Weelend

The historic seaside village of Devonport is one of the most picturesque places to take a stroll in Auckland. Wander down the main street and window shop at the quaint boutiques then walk up North Head for a breathtaking view over the harbor. Take time to stroll along the tree-lined waterfront and dig your toes into the warm white sand at one of many beautiful beaches. It’s a short 13km drive from Auckland City Center, or if you want a more scenic route take the ferry.

Perfect Perennials at Parnell Rose Garden

Yellow roses at the Parnell Rose Garden, photo/Le Long Weekend

The sweetly scented Parnell Rose Gardens, in one of Auckland’s most affluent suburbs, are home to an impressive array of flowers including, most notably, a stunning and diverse selection of roses. The perfect place for a relaxed picnic or a Sunday stroll, the gardens also play host to the free Parnell Festival of Roses every November. Besides enjoying the flowers, enjoy live music and the market stalls for shopping.

Wing it in Wynyard Quarter

Wynyard the new waterfront development offers great people-watching, photo/Le Long Weekend

Wynyard quarter is Auckland’s newest waterfront development and a great place to sit back, soak up the buzzing atmosphere and partake in people watching. Kids will love the maritime-themed play space. In summer you can enjoy the markets, food trucks and free movie nights at the outdoor Silo Cinema.

Epic Events and Markets

The Chinese Lantern Festival is an annual free event in Auckland, photo/Megan Milmine

As the saying goes, “The show never stops in Auckland”. Free events take place throughout the year and range from markets, family Christmas celebrations, free live music concerts, to cultural festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival and Pasifika Festival. To see what’s happening during your visit, check out the Eventfinda website and search by “Auckland” and “free”.

There are many regular markets throughout Auckland ranging from country farmers’ markets to bustling inner-city ones. In summer, take a trip to the Silo markets to pick up local arts and crafts or vintage clothing while sampling street food and being entertained by musicians and street performers. Be sure to sample the authentic French fare on offer at La Cigale French Market, held on Saturday and Sunday mornings in Parnell.

Hit the Beach

Cheltenham Beach in Devonport photo/Le Free Weekend

With over 3,700km of coastline, it comes as no surprise that there are many spectacular beaches in Auckland. Choose from the golden sand shores in the east or wild and rugged black sand beaches in the west. My favorites include Mission Bay (close to the city) for family fun, Bethells (West Auckland) for untamed beauty, Takapuna (North Shore) for its trendy vibe, Cheltenham (Devonport) for chilled afternoons, Piha (West Auckland) for surfing and scenery and Long Bay (North Shore) for wild water sports.

Head for the Hills

There are breathtaking views of the city from Mount Eden, photo/Le Long Weekend

Dormant volcanoes dot Auckland’s landscape and provide fantastic viewing platforms. Climb Mount Victoria for captivating views over the North Shore and Hauraki Gulf towards Rangitoto Island. Walk up Mt Eden (Auckland’s largest volcano) to see the impressive craters and breathtaking views of the city center. Hike to the top of One Tree Hill where you’ll find a memorial to Māori alongside the grave of Auckland’s founding father.

Mountain Biking Madness

While biking through the Waitakere Ranges you may spot this in the bush, photo/Le Long Weekend

Auckland is a mecca for mountain biking enthusiasts. From scenic beginner tracks to harrowing bike trails for the experienced rider, there’s something for all levels; many are completely free of charge. Head for the Beveridge trail in West Auckland for a gentle ride through native bush in the Waitakere Ranges, or go south to the Hunua trails where you’ll find tracks of varying lengths and grades – including expert downhill sprints!

With so many free things to do in Auckland, New Zealand, you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. Strap on some shoes, grab a mate and as we say in New Zealand “get amongst it!”

What are your favorite free things to do in Auckland?

Nadine Maffre is a Kiwi who spent 10 years living in & loving Auckland. She currently resides in France with her husband, young son and two golden retrievers. Her blog Le Long Weekend delivers inspiration for unique experiences around France and beyond. She loves finding hidden treasures in her own backyard and making the most of long weekends. Be sure to follow her adventure on Facebook and Instagram.

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7 Free things to do in Taipei

Varied — Wed, 31 May 2017 18:13:04 +0000

7 Free things to do in Taipei was written by travel blogger Tom McClive of A World of Flophouses.

Some years ago, I married a Taiwanese girl who grew up in Taipei. Since then, I have visited the island almost every year; the next visit will be my tenth. Taiwan is not always on people’s travel list but imagine the best Chinese food in the world (with low prices) in a modern high-tech, high-energy city, surrounded by mountains, coastlines and hot springs. Taipei has all that. It’s visitor-friendly; the people are remarkably cordial, and everything works. The capital of Taiwan (Republic of China) is a crowded but manageable city that has everything you like about Asia but not jammed with tourists. The city is cheap enough that it won’t break your bank but to further sweeten the visit consider these free things to do in Taipei that will make you happy.

Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall

Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hal, photo/Tom McClive

The Chiang Kai Shek MemorialHall (he was President of the Republic of China from 1928 to 1975) is set amidst a park at the east end of Liberty Square. The large white hall containing various exhibits on President Chiang’s life also educates visitors about historical events and other factors, including WWII and the Chinese Civil War, which resulted in the political and social structure of modern Taiwan. Chiang’s role in Taiwan has been hotly debated; a Taiwanese’s opinion of him may correspond with his/her political party affiliation. Guided tours are available in Chinese, at various times of the day. For tours in other languages including English, book ahead through their website. There’s also a changing of the guard on the top floor every hour on the hour, though of course one can visit without a tour. Tourists everywhere love a changing of the guard.

Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall

Sun Yat-Sen Memorial hall, photo/Tom McClive

If you can’t get enough of dead Chinese leaders, next head to the free Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall honoring the founder of the Republic of China. The hall showcases exhibits on both Sun’s accomplishments and on the history of the Republic of China. Sun Yat-Sen fused elements of western nationalist thinking with traditional Chinese culture and political reform. He is recognized as the founding father of the country and is a less controversial figure in Taiwanese history than Chiang Kai Shek. (You may turn into a Sun worshiper yourself.) There is a performance space, exhibition space, and a lecture hall, giving the hall the feeling of a community center. There is also a changing of the guard every hour. Zhongshang Park, surrounding the building, has gardens and a small pond.

Visit a night market

The crowded Roahe night market, photo/om McClive

A night market is, seriously, a must for Taipei; it’s non-stop sensory bombardment. Some people are overwhelmed on their first visit, some become hooked while some become aficionados. A night market is simply a small-stall market that happens in the evening, a good idea in the semi-tropical climate of Taiwan. Add the tendency of Taiwanese shops to stay open quite late anyway, and the entire area is buzzing.

Night markets sell all types of things, but this being East Asia, food is a huge part of it. Seek out some canonical foods that are almost only found in night markets such as oyster pancakes, stinky tofu (deep-fried, slightly fermented tofu) and coffin bread, a super thick slice of white bread, hollowed, deep-fried, then filled with ingredients served in a creamy sauce. Most of the small food stands have tiny tables for eating, but many items are meant to be eaten while strolling or pushing through the crowds. Shilin is the largest night market. Roahe is another good choice and better for food but there are night markets all over the city. You might simply stumble upon one.

Visit a temple

Longshan Temple built in 1738 is worth a visit, photo/Tom McClive

Like night markets, temples dot Taipei and enthusiasts have many to choose from. Longshan Temple, dating back to 1738, has one of the largest and most dramatic with waterfalls outside the entrance making it both melodramatic and memorable. It’s dedicated to Guanyi, the bodhisattva of mercy, though in typical Asian temple style there are other deities there as well, including Matsu, the goddess of the sea, Wenchang Dijun, the god of literature and Brother Guan, the red-faced ultra-fighter. There is a lot to see! East Asian temples, in general, are some of the most open religious structures in the world. No one cares who you are and they’re used to visitors. Snapping photos is fine; you won’t be the only one doing so.

Visit Sanxia

Walk Minquan Street in Sanxia, photo/Tom McClive

Most of Taipei is so new and high-tech that walking along an old red brick street, built in the days when architecture meant something, is a pleasure. Sanxia (three gorges) is an old settlement area of the Han Chinese when they were migrating from China. Minquan Street, sometimes called “Old Street” is lined with red brick storefronts with arched hallways combined with wooden beams and columns and carved plaques. The street is great fun to wander and you’ll get great photos but this isn’t a museum. The street is full of life. The storefronts contain temples, schools, calligraphy shops, boutiques and, this being Taiwan, food of all sorts, especially treats. The assortment is random, but there’s an emphasis on older crafts such as dyes and fabrics and other handicrafts.

Check out the Maokong tea district

The view of Taipei from Maokong, photo/Tom McClive

The Maokong gondola is part of Taipei’s mass transit system. For the price of a subway ticket you can ride in a cable car, some with glass-bottoms, for the 4.3 kilometer ride to the Maokong tea district. Up top, THE thing to do is to walk around the tea plantations, grab a snack at a teahouses and enjoy the view of urban Taipei. Taiwan in general is well-known for its partly-fermented and smoky oolong tea. Buy some before you leave! The numerous teahouses in Maokong use tea not just in their drinks but in their food, including omelets made with tea leaves and noodles flavored with tea oil.

A 15-minute walk will bring you to the Taipai Tea Promotion Center for Tie Guanyin Tea and Baozhong Tea, with exhibits on the tea-production process and tea-tasting methods. On weekends there are free guided tours of the center’s tea-making area. Want a bit of a hike? The Health Trail opposite the center will take you through the woods. In addition, the Camphor and Zhanghu circular trails are to the right of the gondola station. If you can stay until dusk, the panorama from the mountain across to the skyscrapers of Taipei is splendid. Look for Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world.

Discover Beitou

Hotels in Beitou have their own hot springs, photo/Tom McClive

Beitou, in northern Taipei, is an old hot springs area that lets you appreciate Taiwan’s mountainous landscape while still being on a subway line. The Hot Springs Museum, housed in a 1913 building in a long, narrow Beitou Park. It was built by the Japanese during their occupation of Taiwan as their original public bath house. It gives visitors a sense of those times. Plum Garden, the 1930s mansion near the hot springs, once home to famed calligrapher and former political leader Yu You-ren, is an example of Japanese occupation-era architecture. It’s a good example of Japanese occupation-era architecture. Some of Yu’s calligraphy is displayed inside. Continue up the road where you’ll find a small road leading to the Beitou Thermal Valley. It’s a place for hiking and viewing the steam rising from natural thermal pools as well as vents from in the earth. No swimming here, the water is near boiling. Ketagalan Culture Center, across the street from the park, houses exhibits on a dozen Taiwan aboriginal groups. All these attractions are free. If you want to try the green sulfuric waters of the Millennium Hot Springs (Beitou Garden Spa) in the park admission is less than $2 USD.

Taipei has what every great city needs: good neighborhoods to wander. Longshan Temple is quite near Snake Alley, another attraction to check out. Another neighborhood, Ximending, is a shopping and eating area that is famous for its youth culture, but enjoyable for anyone. The area around the Taipei 101 skyscraper is known for high-end shopping and the variety of stores found there. Taipei isn’t a very expensive destination to begin with (even the taxis are cheap) but the number of free things to do in Taipei makes it even better!

What are your favorite free things to do in Taipei?

Brooding and Byronic Tom McClive is the creator of A World of Flophouses, a travel blog focused squarely on good writing and photography. He lives in the Washington, DC area, where in his other life, he’s a linguist. Follow his Facebook page or Twitter feed to catch his travel essays.

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Tidbits: June in Santa Fe is hot!

Billie Frank — Tue, 30 May 2017 23:16:12 +0000

This year is really flying by; it’s coming on June already. Santa Fe is THE place to be this summer. There’s a lot going on! June in Santa Fe is packed with interesting things to do; we’ll give you the highlights in this edition of Tidbits. And the sizzling summer heats up more in July and August. Coming in July: the International Folk Art Market, Spanish Market, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, Santa Fe Bandstand, all treasured annual events as well as lots of other exciting happenings. August brings Santa Fe’s most anticipated event of the year; Indian Market (and many art shows that piggyback on it taking advantage of the art lovers who converge on the city for the market) plus lots of other events. Stay tuned to Tidbits for the latest Santa Fe news.

Santa Fe food and dining news

New food truck in town

Trinity Kitchen is serving up Cajun and more in the Meow Wolf parking lot, photo courtesy Meow Wolf

Meow Wolf, the interactive art installation that’s been wowing Santa Feans and visitors from all over the world for the last year plus has just started their own food truck to feed hungry visitors. Trinity Kitchen is serving Cajun cuisine and other southern favorites including Po Boys, Gumbo, Étouffée, Fried Chicken & Waffles, Boudin, Beignets, and Pecan-Smoked Baby Back Ribs. And you know it’s authentic. Shreveport native and former sous chef Eliot Chavanne is joined by boyhood friend, Connor Black, to cook up those Louisiana favorites. Just writing about it makes my mouth water!

Santa Fe Baking Company returns, sort of

Work on the New Baking Company going into former space of Santa Fe Baking Company, photo Steve Collins

Fans of the departed Santa Fe Baking Company will be cheered to note the Baking Company is arising from the ashes. The new owners are Filiberto Rodriguez, his wife Norma and her aunt and uncle Maria and Mark Fehey, will open the New Baking Company at the original Baking Company’s digs on Cordova Street. And another beloved Santa Fe favorite is being resurrected here. Backstreet Bistro owner David Jacoby shared his Hungarian mushroom soup recipe with them and it will be in the eatery’s soup rotation. And the New Baking Company brings some changes: the interior has been renovated and they will be staying open in the evenings offering dinner. They expect to be open in early June but you know Santa Fe; so it may be longer. But they’re baaaack!

New Mexico Cocktails & Culture Festival (NMCC)

Tasting Seminar at Cocktails & Culture Festival, photo Claire Barrett courtesy of NMCC

The third annual New Mexico Cocktails & Culture Festival (NMCC) takes place in Santa Fe June 2^nd through June 4^th. The event showcases the cocktail and culinary culture of Santa Fe and New Mexico. It’s a weekend of seminars and cocktail and food samplings geared toward both hospitality professionals and sipping and dining afficonados. Because event creator and promoter Natalie Bovis (aka The Cocktail Muse) is very community oriented, the weekend also includes events benefitting select local organizations. The weekend kicks-off on Thursday, June 1^st, with the first-ever Santa Fe Cocktail Week cocktail pairing dinner at Coyote Café. Tickets to the limited-seating event are $125. Other events include:

The almost sold out Margarita Trail Taco Wars on Friday June 2^ndfrom 6 to 9pm, tickets $20. Taste the takes on street tacos from the participating food purveyors and vote for your fave. Parts of ticket sale proceeds as well as a $250 prize donation donated on behalf of the winning chef benefit the Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico. SOLD OUT!
Tony Abou-Ganim’s 40-Mile Fundraising Bike Ride on Saturday June 3^rd at 10am. This is the official kick-off for Negroni Week. Proceeds benefit the Helen David Relief Fund which supports bartenders battling breast cancer. The event starts and ends at Skylight followed by lunch sponsored by Compari; all cyclists are welcome at the lunch event when the cyclists return which will be around noon. The general public can attend, tickets are $30.
Chef & Shaker Challenge Saturday, June 3, 2017, 5 to 7pm: at the Scottish Rite Temple. The evening includes Dale DeGroff’s one-man show On The Town followed by the Chef & Shaker Challenge where a dozen chefs will present their food and cocktail pairings. Winning chefs receive $500 to donate to their favorite local charity. A portion of the $85 ticket will support Cooking with Kids.

A full schedule of activities and seminars, including Saturday’s Hendricks Gin Academy at 2 and 3:15pm, can be found on their website.

Edible Art Tour

Whole Hog’s whole hog at Zaplin Lambert Gallery on the 2015 Edible Art Tour, photo/

Didn’t know whether to put this one into food or art; we picked food because that’s our real passion. It’s time for the annual Edible Art Tour (EAT), a fun event that pairs food purveyors and art galleries for two evenings of gazing and grazing. Button holders can visit participating downtown galleries on Friday, June 8^th. You may want to start at the kick-off party at the Joe Wade Gallery at El Centro at 102 East Water Street. On Saturday, June 10^th the action moved to Canyon Road. The event runs from 5 to 8pm both nights. The event benefits ArtSmart a group that sponsors art programs in Santa Fe public schools. Buy a button ($35)! You’ll have fun and be supporting a good cause. Buttons can be purchased at the ARTSmart office at 1201 Parkway Drive, at the Lensic box office or online.

Santa Fe art

Canyon Road Contemporary Art

Dena Tollefson, “Sunflower Blues Celebration”, photo Dena Tollefson, courtesy Canyon Road Contemporary Art

Natural and Human Expression, a new exhibition featuring painter Joy Richardson and bead artist Ali Launer, opens at Canyon Road Contemporary Art on Friday, June 2^nd from 5 to 7pm. Richardson’s abstract art covers large canvases while Launer’s beads adorn real animal skulls. The show runs through June 11^th, 2017.

The busy gallery has a second June opening, Positivity,featuring paintings from “daubist” Dena Tollefson and clay animal sculptures from Kari Rives on Friday, June 23^rdfrom 5 to 7pm. Daubism is painting done via palette knife “where each stroke of color is isolated from the others.” The show runs through July 2^nd.

Beals & Co. Showroom

From BLOOM – A Solo Show with Jessica Loving, photo Jessica Loving, courtesy Beals & Co

Bloom, featuring paintings by Jessica Loving, opens at Beals & Co. Showroom on Friday, June 2^nd. There will be an artist’s reception on Friday, June 9^th from 5 to 7pm. The gallery calls her large-scale non-representative canvases “a celebration of brightness and color.” The show runs through June 23^rd.

Sorrell Sky Gallery

Maura Allen’s “New West”, courtesy Sorrel Sky Gallery

Geography of Hope, a two-person show featuring painter Maura Allan and sculptor Danny Haskew, opens at Sorrell Sky Gallery on Friday June 2^nd from 5 to 7:30pm. Allen is known for her contemporary western paintings; Haskew, a member of the Potawatomi Citizen Nation is a respected artist known for his monumental “lost wax” bronze sculptures. The show runs until the end of June.

MILL Contemporary

Shirley Baskin Familian, “Hail To The Red, White, and Blue”, photo, Shirley Baskin Familian, courtesy MILL Contemporary

Just when you think you’ve seen everything, something new comes along. MILL Contemporary opens an exhibition of stamp art by 96-year-old artist, Shirley Baskin Familian on Saturday, June 3^rd from 4 to 6 pm. The artist, using stamps “like mosaic tiles or fabric swatches,” composes “collages that recall quilting, tile work or Indian mandala designs.” Familian also takes common everyday objects, such as an iron, and transforms them with stamps. Other works in the show include three-dimensional rotating cubes and spheres as well as two-dimensional wall hangings. The show runs through June 24^th.

Poeh Summer Arts Market

Native artists at a market at Poeh Center, photo/courtesy Poeh Cultural Center’s Summer Arts Market

The Poeh Cultural Center in Pojoaque, just north of Santa Fe, will hold their inaugural Summer Arts Market on Saturday, June 17^th from 8am to 4pm. The show is open to Native American artists from across the southwest. Attendees can meet the artists and learn about their creative process as well as shop for original jewelry, pottery, textiles and other arts. In addition, there will be Native food vendors serving up for regional cuisine. This is a free event; humans and service animals only please.

Art beyond Santa Fe

Frank Shelton, Debra Fritz, Joseph Hall, Walter Nelson and Doug Coffin,

We’re excited about the Abiquiu Art Project. We were invited to preview it before it launched. Five successful Abiquiu artists have joined forces to offer tours of their studios and perhaps meet the artists. The working studios featured on the tour belong to painter/photographer Walter Nelson; husband and wife team clay artist Debra Fritts and painter Frank Shelton; painter/sculptor Doug Coffin and jeweler Joseph Hall. You can either join the scheduled Saturday Tours or book a private tour. The shuttle for the three-hour Saturday Tour departs the Abiquiu Inn at 2pm. There is also a brief stop at a viewing point for an unusual view of picturesque Plaza Blanca, a place that inspired and was painted by Georgia O’Keeffe. The cost of the tour is $40. You can reserve your seat on the Abiquiu Art Project website. You can also arrange a private tour by calling Teresa Toole, the tour project coordinator at (505) 685-0504

Santa Fe music

Lensic Presents:

The Lensic Presents series will offer a concert by Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist, Gregory Porter, on Saturday, June 10^th at 7:30pm at the Lensic Performing Arts Center. The acclaimed artist won the 2014 Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album for his third recording, Liquid Spirit. Tickets, starting at $38 may be purchased at the Lensic box office or online at Tickets Santa Fe* (see the bottom of this section for the link).

Music on the Hill

Enjoying a concert at Music on the Hill™ photo/courtesy Music on the Hill™

Music on the Hill™ has been offering free jazz concerts on Wednesday evenings since 2006. This summer, the series which starts on Wednesday, June 14^th and continues through Wednesday, July 26^th (no concert on July 5^th) has expanded to include other musical genres. Concerts, from 6 to 8pm, are free. Arrive early, bring a picnic and stake out your spot on the grass at the St. John’s College athletic field. Parking is limited; free shuttle service from Museum Hill runs every 15 minutes from 5:30 to 8:30pm. If you want to make sure these free summer concerts continue, become a Friend of Music on the Hill™ and donate. There’s a link towards to bottom of the MOTH website.

Santa Fe Opera

There’s something really special about going to hear an opera at the Santa Fe Opera. Every summer the company mounts world-class productions but that’s only part of the experience. There’s the long-standing custom of pre-performance tailgating in the upper parking lot, or having the pre-opera buffet dinner. Don’t miss the magic of nature captured in evening sunset visible behind the stage. If you happen to be there for a thunderstorm it’s something you’ll long remember. The Opera opens its 2017 season on Friday, June 30^th with Strauss’ comic opera, Die Fledermaus. Other operas this summer are Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Golden Cockerel, George Frideric Handel’s Alcina as well as the world premier of The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs by composer Mason Bates with a libretto by Mark Campbell. Tickets are available from the opera’s box office or on their website. If you’re not an opera fan try the lighthearted Fledermaus, or start with a backstage tour, given Monday through Friday at 9am.

*Tickets Santa Fe

Santa Fe misc.

Woman in Gold

In addition to EAT, ARTSmart will present another fundraising event: Behind the Woman in Gold, the story of the iconic Klimpt painting and the film it inspired, on Thursday June 8^th at 6pm at the Lensic Performing Arts Center. The evening includes a showing of the film starring Helen Mirren, a talk about the intriguing story behind the film and a VIP reception. The famous painting is of Adele Bloch-Bauer, wife of an Austrian-Jewish industrialist. The painting and other Klimpt works the family owned was stolen by the Nazis and given to the Belvedere Palace, Austria’s national gallery. The film chronicles the efforts of Maria Altmann, Adele Bloch-Bauer’s niece, to get this valuable work back from the Belvedere. The evening begins with a VIP reception is at 5pm, followed by lecture by Peter Altmann (Maria’s son) at 6pm and a 7pm screening of the 2015 film. Altmann will also be at the VIP reception. Tickets for this special evening, $75 for the entire evening or $35 for the lecture and screening, are available at the Lensic box office or at Tickets Santa Fe* (see the link above this section).

Juan Siddi Arte Flamenco Society

Juan Siddi, photo Rosalie O’Connor, courtesy Aspen Santa Fe Ballet

We met Juan Siddi in 2008 the year he first brought his new company to Santa Fe and have been fans ever since. He has become an international star and now performs around the world. His troupe, the Juan Siddi Arte Flamenco Society, will be in Santa Fe for three performances this year. All will be at the Lensic. The first takes place on Friday, June 9^th at 7:30pm. The other dates are August 27^th and December 9^th. This season the company presents a variety of new works featuring acclaimed flamenco artists from Spain and the United States as well as some of Siddi’s students. The performance will be followed by a Meet the Artists Party in the Lensic Lobby. Tickets, $25 to $65, are available at the Lensic box office or online at Tickets Santa Fe* (see link in section above).

That’s it for June. Tidbits will be back on the last Tuesday in June. ¡Hasta Luego!

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Santa Fe’s Edible Art Tour – EAT 2017

Billie Frank — Tue, 30 May 2017 15:06:59 +0000

This post on Santa Fe’s Edible Art Tour (EAT) is updated annually. The current information is for EAT 2017. The post was republished 5/30/17

Tthe Edible Art Tour (EAT), is an annual event put on by Santa Fe’s ARTsmart, is one of our favorite events of the year. Galleries pair with restaurants to offer art and eats. The event, now in its 20^th year, was originally held in February along with the other fund-raising events. It was always great fun, but walking cold, dark winter streets and trying to cover downtown and Canyon Road in one evening was daunting. In 2015, ARTsmart wisely moved EAT to a June weekend. Even smarter, it’s now held on two nights. The 2017 event takes place on Friday June 9^th and Saturday June 10^th. Friday evening downtown/Plaza area galleries will welcome EAT attendees and on Saturday Canyon Road galleries open their doors to button holders. This year ARTsmart has added another event to the weekend. A lecture and screening at the Lensic. Details are at the end of this post.

EAT 2017 downtown/Plaza area

Attendees enjoy the art at a downtown gallery at the 2015 EAT photo/Steve Collins

On Friday evening 13 downtown/Plaza area galleries will welcome button-holders from 5 to 8pm. Event-goers can visit 17 galleries around the downtown area. Streets represented include Johnson Street, Water Street, Lincoln Avenue, West Palace Avenue and Old Santa Fe Trail.

EAT Canyon Road

Whole Hog’s whole hog at Zaplin Lambert Gallery on the 2015 Edible Art Tour, photo/

The following evening EAT moves to Canyon Road from 5 to 8pm. Event-goers can gaze and graze their way up or down this historic byway.

The nuts and bolts

Plates created by a student in the ARTsmart-funded school program photo/Steve Collins

Even with the event spread over two nights, you won’t get to all the galleries. Pick a strategy: opt for galleries or food purveyors that you like, a specific section of Canyon Road or Downtown or perhaps just wander randomly. Whatever your approach, there will be great food and art to enjoy.

Tickets (buttons) for EAT 2017, which runs from 5 to 8pm both nights, are $35 a person. They can be purchased on the ARTSmart website, at all participating galleries (complete list is on the website), as well as at the Lensic Performing Arts Center box office. Funds raised EAT 2017 support art programs in Santa Fe public schools. See you at EAT!

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Free things to do in Shanghai

Varied — Wed, 24 May 2017 19:03:39 +0000

When it comes to ranking world cities on glitz and glam, Shanghai would be near the top of the list. While you could spend your time taking in the infectious vibe of the city and splashing a bit of cash, you can quite easily enjoy the city without emptying your bank account. Read on and we’ll share our top free things to do in Shanghai.

Visit the Bund

A view of the Bund at night, photo/They Get Around

Shanghai, but more broadly China is growing. Nowhere else is this notion of rapid growth more evident than the Bund. Soaring skyscrapers which illuminate the night sky are neatly packed along the Pudong side of the Huangpu River. The Bund is the perfect place to visit at any time for photography but I’d strongly suggest at either sunrise or sunset if you’re after a photo which will have some wow factor to it. You can spend hours walking along the promenade sightseeing, taking in the beauty of the 19^th century colonial architecture and meeting people. Since The Bund is an iconic attraction within China it attracts Chinese tourists from all over the country. Often these Chinese tourists come from provinces where seeing foreigners is quite rare so don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pose for a few photos. You could be leaving the Bund feeling like a B grade celebrity.

The Grand Hyatt

A view of the Grand Hyatt, photo/They Get Around

Once again the Bund is the main feature, however this time the view is from above. If you can make it to the Grand Hyatt’s lobby on the 54th floor, you’ll be able to soak in the amazing view from this unique angle. It’s free to enter the lobby, as it’s used also as a promotional tool for potential guests, and to help sway them into staying the night. You can feel free to explore and take in the glowing lights of the city. Just be courteous and discrete as setting up a tripod may not go down so well.

Visit East Nanjing Road

East Nanjing Road at night, photo/They Get Around

While it’s completely free to visit, you may end up walking away from East Nanjing Road having spent a little. This is the city’s main shopping street. You’ll discover both designer and non-designer clothing, make up, jewelry, shoes, and food stores. If none of that takes your fancy you can always wait until dusk when the fluorescent lighting begins to come alive. This will give you some interesting photo opportunities. The bombardment of advertising is reminiscent of Tokyo or Bladerunner.

Yu Garden

Shanghai Yu Garden at night, photo/They Get Around

Another site which comes alive at night, but is equally as impressive during the day, is Yu Garden. Located in the old part of Shanghai, the over 400-year-old gardens showcase classic Chinese style architecture. There are two sections at the gardens; the outside of the garden and the shopping district are free. If you want to wander inside the gardens and explore, you’ll need to pay an admission price. However if you’re content appreciating the architecture from the outside, you can save a few dollars. Outside the entrance you’ll see traditional Chinese buildings (although unfortunately most of these are filled with restaurants) and a water garden.

Visit Old Shanghai

Old Shanghai at night photo/They Get Around

While you’re in the area visiting the Yu Garden, a quick two minute walk in any direction will allow you to wander into the old part of town. Shanghai is a bustling city which is always moving forward. Because of this a lot of the older sections of the city are being destroyed by progress. They’re replacing the old buildings with shopping malls and large apartment blocks. This makes for some interesting photos. Get in and see Old Shanghai while you can!

French Concession

One of the wonderful old houses in Xintiandi, an affluent neighborhood in the former French Concession, photo/Irene Levine

Compared with the rest of China, Shanghai is very metropolitan. Shanghai has had influences from many Western countries including Britain, the United States, Russia, and France. The French Concession is probably the most famous, with some buildings giving the illusion of having stepped out of France itself. Taking a walk through the French Concession is a great way to spend the day, and is one of the best free things to do in Shanghai.

While you may expect Shanghai to be expensive, there are numerous things to see and do to help keep your budget down. Undoubtedly, the Bund is the most famous attraction of this busy city, and you can take in the view for free. A lot of the free things to do in Shanghai will help you delve into the city’s culture and architecture. I hope this post gives you many ideas so that you can spend your time in Shanghai wisely and inexpensively.

What are your favorite free things to do in Shanghai?

Lexi and Steve are two young Australians who write about travel photography tips and scenic travel on their blog They Get Around. They record almost every day of their travels on their YouTube channel and share their photographs on Instagram.

French Connection photo courtesy Irene S. Levine of More Time to Travel

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