Adventures for Anyone

Thursday, July 14, 2022

Jen's List, My Latest Book, Whatever...Let's Go to P.E.I!

As I finished a second edit on my latest novel, my characters made a short stop on Prince Edward Island, Canada. As I read over the text, I remembered seeing it on a bucket list somewhere, and wouldn't you know, Jen had it on her bucket list! So, here we go.

Prince Edward Island, or P.E.I. is one of the Eastern Maritime Provinces of Canada. It resides off the coasts of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, south of Newfoundland and Labrador. Home of the Abegweit First Nation of Lennox Island, the First Nation's People of P.E.I. are the Mi'kmaq. P.E.I is also part of the Acadian Provinces, and there's a lot of Scottish history there as well. You'll find a lot of live Scottish music and a good bit of Scottish arts, crafts, drink, food, and overall culture.

History is a massive theme on Prince Edward Island. Having been part of several empires, regimes, and part of many different countries over the years, you'll find ancient forts, open air museums, traditional museums, historic sites, and Lennox Island and all it has to offer. There are also a few lighthouses across the island that are open for visits. Some have museums on site. One is available for rent as an Air B&B.

One of the most famous pieces of P.E.I. history is that of Lucy Maud Montgomery and "Anne of Green Gables." Lucy grew up on Prince Edward Island and her stories are based in the area as any good writer would do. There are five locations to celebrate the famed stories around the island, including a homestead museum and the birth home of the author. There's also a musical about the stories at a theater named after them. Lots of "Anne of Green Gables" things to see and do.

Would you like to bring the whole family to P.E.I.? Then you might want to visit Cavendish. Famed for their awesome red cliffs and rock formations, Cavendish is a great beach spot.

But, if you have kids, they'll drive you nuts about how bored they are. Especially if you come from the United States and their phones don't work. So, given the massive popularity of the shore at Cavendish, the locals decided to put in some man made tourist attractions many years ago. They have music festivals, campgrounds and all kinds of things to do.

Another thing that Cavendish has is a water park and Sandspit Theme Park. There's a lot of rides for the kids and they even have a Cyclone Rollercoaster. Just a bit of Coney Island in the north.

Getting outdoors is not problem on Prince Edward Island, as a matter of fact, it's expected. With P.E.I. National Park, The Confederation Trail, and many provincial parks, the options for outdoor fun are endless. Being a set of islands, there's beaches and cliffs, coastal rock formations and boardwalks in national wetlands to enjoy. Biking, hiking, and beaching are a few of the most popular pasttimes in the province.

What you won't see a lot of on Prince Edward Island are trees. Being a northern province and an island, there are trees, but you won't find a lot of the dense woods that you find in other parts of the Atlantic Seaboard.

P.E.I. is scenic, as are many of the archipelagos along the east coast of America. There are some designated scenic drives around the province. There are massive boardwalks through marsh lands for the nature enthusiasts. There are bike routes, hiking trails and so much more.

Fishing is the name of the game in Prince Edward Island. Not far from the famed Grand Banks, the culture has long since revolved around fishing. Most of the giant Cod Fishing gurus have gone by the wayside, but the lobster fisherman are still on the water today.

Boats are a big part of life in P.E.I. They are necessary for travel, work, and leisure. You can make arrangements to go fishing, lobstering, crabbing, or just sailing while visiting the islands.

Charlottetown is the capital and main hub of P.E.I. The international airport is there. They're main harbor is there. It is by far the largest city in the province. They have all the clubs, restaurants, hotels, theaters, shopping and so forth that modern tourists love. If you take a cruise to P.E.I. it will stop in Charlottetown. They also have the only city historic district in the province. Most historic areas are rural or in villages. If you want to stay someplace central, Charlottetown is a great choice. It sits in the middle of the province, between the two main parts of the main island.

As with any island, especially just off the coast of Canada proper, you'll need to know how on Earth to get there. The most obvious is to fly. There are also several cruises that stop there. However, flying or cruising leaves you needing to rent a car. There's a lot to see on P.E.I. and you'll want to see a lot of it. It's a long way from East Point to West Cape. The provincial parks are spread out, and if you want to see the lighthouses; you'll need a car.

So, if you can drive to Prince Edward Island, do. Confederation Bridge is the longest connector bridge over potential ice floe lands in the world. It's 8 miles long and when you make landfall on P.E.I. one of the "Anne of Green Gables" attractions is close by. The bridge runs from Cape Jourimain, New Brunswick to Borden-Carleton on P.E.I.

You can also load those cars onto a ferry. Northumberland Ferries travel between Souris, P.E.I. and Caribou, ME; Nova Scotia; and the just off shore Wood Islands. It takes roughly five hours to get from Nova Scotia to P.E.I. Visiting the Wood Islands and Northumberland Provincial Park is a lot of fun too and they are close to the Woods Island Ferry Terminal.

Are you looking for something more traditional for tourism? Prince Edward Island has that too. They have horse racing, country shopping, sightseeing tours, sailing trips, a casino, a Ripley's Believe it or not museum, theater, cooking classes, golf, and so much more.

There's five star dining, spas, shopping and most anything you can find in more congested citified areas. There's a lot of ways to spend money and live it up in the lap of luxury.

Also, there's all the traditional watches; whale watches, seal watches, puffin watches.

But, if you take the time to travel to a lovely island province like P.E.I. I recommend you take the time to visit some of the one of a kind sights. Take a look at all the natural beauty. Visit the place where houses are made out of bottles. Go to the potato museum. Go fishing with the Fiddling Fisherman. Stop at Cow's Creamery for ice cream...one of the top ten ice creameries in the world. Embrace the unique lifestyle of the island. Atlas Obscura had a field day logging the attractions they found that were out of the ordinary on Prince Edward Island.

P.E.I. is a place to learn about a cultural history. It's a place to enjoy unique natural beauty. It's a place to get outdoors and enjoy everything the place has to offer. Take the time, meet some people, try the food, take part in a cultural event, and enjoy everything that seems just a little off. This is not a typical tourist spot, so don't try to treat it like one. Jump right in, do as the locals do, learn something, and enjoy!

https://www.state.gov/countries-areas/canada/

https://www.travelocity.com/Destinations-In-Prince-Edward-Island.d6058122.Flight-Destinations

https://www.skyscanner.com/flights/flights-to-region/44294317/cheap-flights-to-prince-edward-island.html

https://www.cheapoair.com/flights/booknow/destinations/states?state-code=PE&fpaffiliate=coa-bing-destination&fpsub=&utm_campaign=Destination-Destinations-Intl-Caribbean-North-America_Phrase_ATLAS&utm_term=to%20prince%20edward%20island&utm_term_id=kwd-76553664778172:loc-4086&utm_source=bing&utm_medium={cpc}&device=c&fpprice=&campaignID=376221851&adgroupId=1224856147673184&msclkid=b577622006d01db137c500ef057c3325&utm_content=destination%3Dprince_edward_island

https://www.tripsinsider.com/flights/?campaignid=428087109&adgroupid=1345803586893838&lpage=chf&lb=k&YallaBeitar=1&msclkid=b714eae5661c15c205c2882a65b06313&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=B_Flights-US-DSKTAB-CHF_K-LIR-01_cx3m_Misc4&utm_term=flight%20to%20prince%20edward%20island&utm_content=Flights_01_cx3m_Misc_30%20(Phrase)

https://www.greatlakescruises.com/prince-edward-island-cruises.html

https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-to/charlottetown-prince-edward-island

https://www.cruisecritic.com/cruiseto/cruiseitineraries.cfm?portofcall=35

https://www.seabourn.com/en_US/cruise-destinations/canada-new-england.html?xid=SPDN210328478&&msclkid=c58dbca739471f374a34de683a49dbee&gclid=c58dbca739471f374a34de683a49dbee&gclsrc=3p.ds

https://www.vikingcruises.com/expeditions/cruise-destinations/great-lakes-canada/index.html?cid=SEM|BNG|999|c_376247252_kwd-77240859828867:loc-190_&utm_id=sem:VXP-US-BNG-NB-Core-Canada-Exact&utm_content=VGL-US-BNG-NB-Core-Canada-Exact&msclkid=7ad6a2c6a28c1fa2da49c009a1821d88&gclid=7ad6a2c6a28c1fa2da49c009a1821d88&gclsrc=3p.ds

https://www.ferries.ca/ns-pei-ferry/overview/

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/canada/prince-edward-island

https://adventures.com/blog/how-to-get-to-prince-edward-island/

https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-and-wellness/travel-and-entry-to-pei

https://www.aaa.com/roadtrips/eastern-canada/red-sands-shore-region-scenic-drive-SB564986

https://www.tourismpei.com/what-to-do/attractions-sightseeing/scenic-heritage-roads

https://www.discovercharlottetown.com/

https://www.museeacadien.org/?lang=en

http://danseacadienne.ca/acadiansofpei/

https://lennoxisland.com/

https://lighthousefriends.com/pull-state.asp?state=PE

https://www.todocanada.ca/25-must-visit-lighthouses-in-prince-edward-island/

https://www.tourismpei.com/what-to-do/attractions-sightseeing/lighthouses

https://www.expedia.com/North-Cape-Lighthouse-Hotels.0-l553248621573139875-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels?semcid=US.UB.BING.DL-DSA-c-EN.HOTEL&semdtl=a1414026279.b11315017060751362.r1.g1dat-2333988307887629:loc-190.i1.d1.e1c.j144736.k14063.f1.n1.l1o.h1b.m1&msclkid=334b9ed0b3ca11d0bf45fc1fb3218445&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=BEX%3AUSA%3AENG%3A%24%3ADL%3AGLOB%3AALL%3AXX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3ASEO%3A&utm_term=www.expedia.com%2F%20Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels&utm_content=BEX%3AUSA%3AENG%3A%24%3ADT%3AGLOB%3AALL%3AXX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3ASEO%3A

https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/pe/skmaqn/

https://www.cheapflights.com/

https://www.northamericanforts.com/Canada/pe.html

https://www.priceline.com/?tab=hotels&sort=N&query=fort%20prince%20edward%20island&match=bb&kw=hotels%20offers&refid=PLMSN&refclickid=D%3AcHOTEL14734232390o74079722637270267510561kwd-74079684728048%3Aloc-190&msclkid=b503a7d623a61ed40ca7c51923d72bf0&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Gen%7CHotels%7CNo%20Location%7CBroad%7CDesktop&utm_term=hotels%20offers&utm_content=Hotels%7CNo%20Location%7CDeals%7CNo%20Type%7CNo%20SubType%7CBroad&gclid=b503a7d623a61ed40ca7c51923d72bf0&gclsrc=3p.ds&slingshot=1033&vrid=176fc477debaed0d9aeb7fc40406eeee

https://www.hometogo.com/search/53be541f93af1?adword=bing%2Fus%2Fkwd-83700745946120%3Aloc-4086%2Fct%3Ds%3Blc%3Dlt%3Bd%3Ddt%3Btc%3DUS%3Bln%3Den%3Bot%3DVRen%3Blt%3Dab%3Bmt%3Db%3Bcid%3Db4e1ddf4c88235c5%2Fca%2Fn-a%2F53be541f93af1%2F83700437753828%2Fprince%20edward%20island%20canada%20vacation%20rental&hl=en_US&mktasp=acid%3D136001892%3Bcpid%3D399046912%3Bagid%3D1339205768372536%3Badid%3D83700437753828%3Bkwid%3Dkwd-83700745946120%3Aloc-4086%3Bdvce%3Dc%3Bkwrd%3Dprince%20edward%20island%20canada%20vacation%20rental%3B&msclkid=bf0f991387a51d3e2aaafbdc87d42e2e&utm_campaign=ct%3Ds%3B%20lc%3Dlt%3B%20d%3Da%3B%20tc%3DUS%3B%20ln%3Den%3B%20ot%3DVRen%3B%20lt%3Dab%3B%20mt%3Db%3B%20cid%3D24973684e2e28a10&utm_content=dc%3DCA%3B%20ll%3DPrince_Edward_Island%3B%20pt%3D%3B%20lid%3D53be541f93af1%3B%20aid%3D0a79b8b9391fc526&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=bing&utm_term=prince%20edward%20island%20canada%20vacation%20rental

https://www.iexplore.com/articles/travel-guides%2Fnorth-america%2Fcanada%2Fprince-edward-island%2Fhistory-and-culture

https://www.tourismpei.com/about-pei/history-culture

https://www.neverstoptraveling.com/best-restaurants-in-pei

https://www.opentable.com/g/atlantic-canada/prince-edward-island-restaurants

https://www.tourismpei.com/what-to-do/outdoor-activities/boating-sailing

https://cavendishbeachpei.com/members-operators/sandspit-amusement-park/

https://welcomepei.com/destinations/cavendish/

https://cavendishbeachpei.com/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/SmartDeals-g499311-Cavendish_Prince_Edward_Island-Hotel-Deals.html

https://thewoksoflife.com/prince-edward-island-pei-canada/

http://teafirst.com/thunder-cove-sandstone-formations-cliffs-on-prince-edward-island/

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/partner-content-prince-edward-island-best-road-trip

https://www.alltrails.com/canada/prince-edward-island/state-parks

https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/tourism-pei/provincial-parks-and-beaches

https://www.booking.com/accommodation/region/ca/prince-edward-island.html?aid=1181029&label=msn-Ejb3n8EWRJZxqjzDCHEgtA-80126981401676%3Atidat-2331926723608638%3Aloc-190%3Aneo%3Amtb%3Alp44736%3Adec%3Aqsprovincial+park+prince+edward+island&utm_campaign=English_United_States+EN+US&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=bing&msclkid=f80d6bf096b11a14728e093e6b626941&utm_term=Ejb3n8EWRJZxqjzDCHEgtA

https://www.airbnb.com/prince-edward-canada/stays

https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/canada/articles/5-anne-of-green-gables-destinations-to-visit-on-prince-edward-island/

https://confederationcentre.com/whats-on/anne-of-green-gables/

https://www.annemuseum.com/index.php

https://www.travelawaits.com/2561898/prince-edward-island-anne-of-green-gables-sites/

https://www.tourismpei.com/trip-ideas/itineraries/featured-itineraries/anne-of-green-gables-itinerary

https://www.hurb.com/tickets/prince-edward-island/best-of-prince-edward-island-small-group-tour-TKT-ab30X2

https://www.peimuseum.ca/

https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/pe/pei-ipe

https://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions-/prince-edward-island-cdn-pe-pe.htm

https://www.viator.com/Prince-Edward-Island-tours/Cultural-and-Theme-Tours/d5643-g4?m=33953&supag=1240249278274158&supsc=dat-2329315383530665%3Aloc-190&supai=77515662215907&supdv=c&supnt=nt%3Ao&suplp=44736&supli=4063&supti=dat-2329315383530665%3Aloc-190&tsem=true&supci=dat-2329315383530665%3Aloc-190&supkw=historic+sites+prince+edward+island&msclkid=2816d21e3e7d16d59c15b0d0c2395094

https://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/canada/prince-edward-island?sleeps=10-plus&k_clickid=&ds_cid=71700000081827126&ds_kids=p62629457657&ds_kid=39700062629457657&ksprof_id=700000002196404&ksdevice=c&ktarget=dat-2324367581350300:loc-190&kloct=4063&klocf=44736&ds_aid=58700006953731364&ha_t=:o:&&msclkid=b3bf534073e312f72b63318e8fa7f1dc&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=VRB%3AUSA%3AENG%3A%24%3ADL%3AGLOB%3AALL%3AXX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3ASEO%3A1%3A-G12344012627&utm_term=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vrbo.com%2Fvacation-rentals%20%2Fcanada&utm_content=VRB%3AUSA%3AENG%3A%24%3ADT%3AGLOB%3AALL%3AXX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3AX%3ASEO%3A&gclid=b3bf534073e312f72b63318e8fa7f1dc&gclsrc=3p.ds

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g155023-Activities-Charlottetown_Prince_Edward_Island.html

https://blog.worldholidayvibes.com/prince-edward-island-in-canada/

https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/prince-edward-island

https://vacationidea.com/canada/prince-edward-island-things-to-do.html

https://www.mustdocanada.com/things-to-do-in-prince-edward-island/

https://www.tourismpei.com/what-to-do

https://www.ontheluce.com/things-to-do-prince-edward-island-canada/

https://www.visitacity.com/en/prince-edward-island/activities/all-activities?activitiesSearchByName=walking&campaginid=418862822&adgroupid=1280931434964643&targetid=kwd-80058435086561:loc-190&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Prince%20Edward%20Island%20ActivitiesA28X%20G-US-In-CAN&utm_term=prince%20edward%20island%20walking%20tour&utm_content=walking%20tour

https://www.getyourguide.com/location-l32376/?cmp=bing&campaign_id=377151465&adgroup_id=1247946168886853&target_id=dat-2329796419836470%3Aloc-190&match_type=b&ad_id=77996736735195&msclkid=38f5bba857311772ac4ad966af6020d6&loc_physical_ms=44736&feed_item_id=&keyword=www.getyourguide.com&partner_id=CD951&utm_medium=paid_search&utm_source=bing&utm_campaign=ct%3Ddsa%7Cln%3D29%3Aen%7Ctc%3Dus&utm_term=www.getyourguide.com&gclsrc=3p.ds&utm_content=ct%3Ddsa%7Cfn%3Df1

Thursday, July 7, 2022

Classic Favorite...With a Twist, Jen Sends us to Magaret Island in Budapest!

30 years ago or so, I visited an exotic land, and that visit would change my life forever. My friend, Jen, has officially placed that spot on the bucket list for the blog, and I am more than willing to write about it. She did specify Margaret Island (Margitsziget), but welcome to Budapest!

Back in 1992 when I visited, it was not only winter, but a brand new country. Gone were the ghosts of Soviets, Hapsburgs, and Nazis; and Hungary was independent. The hidden hospitals in caves, and all the other ruins of wars past would soon become monuments, memorials, gardens, and reminders to never do WWII again.

For anyone who's never been to Europe, reminders are a theme, and I think a good one. They don't ever want to live through the kind of destruction and genocide they survived during WWII. The theory is that if it's in your face, you can't forget and therefore, hopefully will never go there again. I admire that. I wish the United States was that attached to their history. I wish we knew the value of leaving history in place to warn future generations of tragedies that we never wish to repeat.

Anyway, Buda is historically on the west side of the Danube and Pest is on the east. A long time ago, they became Budapest. That's how we know them today. With the remnants of royalty sitting on top of Castle Hill on the west riverbank, and the world famous Parliament Building on the east shore, the history of the city comes alive.

Let me start by saying the Parliament Building looks more like a castle and the Castle looks more like a government building. Both in Budapest are beautiful. Castle Hill is a neighborhood where you can see some of the best of the old world. The neighborhood itself is ancient, narrow roaded, and geared for tourists. You can take the funicular up to the hill from the river. You can also drive or ride a bus across the famed Chain Bridge. While on the hill you should visit the castle and check out some shops. There's great coffee, goulash and other Hungarian specialties, and if you like you can get your future told by a Gypsy.

Hungarians and Gypsies have a checkered past, so don't be surprised if the Magyars don't seem fond of Gypsies. On that note, Magyars are just that. They don't refer to themselves as Hungarians. And, while they remember their history as a lesson, they don't like to live it. They prefer that visitors learn a few phrases of Magyar before they visit. A lot of people do speak English at least a little, and that they don't mind. However, they speak German, but they hate it. It's a strange relationship with the language, but it's a real thing. And, if for some reason, you speak Russian; don't even go there. German and Russian languages strike a raw nerve in Budapest.

All that being said, Budapest is a wonderful city with so much to offer, so much to learn, and so much to do. They've joined the ranks of a city with an Eye. You can get a bird's eye view from the giant wheel. It's great for a little downtime or photos.

Budapest is easily navigable by public transportation, so take the tram, subway, bus, train, boat and whatever. It's a great way to get around town. You'll meet people and have time to see the city. It's a beautiful city and a great idea is to not miss the view because you're driving.

There's a city market, parks, tours, walking tours, a Jewish Quarter, historic neighborhoods, opera, theater, ballet, shopping, foodie options, and so much more. One thing that you can't miss is the trip up to The Fisherman's Bastion. It overlooks the city from Castle Hill and is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. I also must mention that musicians play there every evening, and you have a beautiful nighttime view of the city, the Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge from there. It makes for a magical evening.

Other places to visit include the Dohany Synagogue in the Jewish Quarter. It has a long history and is the largest Synagogue outside of Israel. Another place is Andrassy Avenue, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There's a museum called The House of Terror, which as movielike as it seems, is a historical museum showcasing all the tyrants that have ruled over the area. Take a walk along the Danube Promenade on the Pest side. Visit Gellert Hill, see the Lady Liberty Statue (the only statue remaining from Soviet times.) There's also a citadel on that hill with an enormous history and a great view. There's a riverside sculpture of iron shoes reminding us of deaths of WWII. And, if you look closely, there are some interesting statues around town that you can investigate. There's Steve Jobs, Ronald Reagan, Bela Lugosi, and even Columbo. Interesting stuff.

One of the activities that Budapest and Hungary are most famous for are the baths. They're all over the city, and they are places where the locals have gathered for centuries. There are pools, spas, thermal baths, and more recently water parks. The Gellert Baths are from the early 1900's and the buildings are in Art Nouveau style. Another famous bath is the thermal Szechenyi Baths. Also worth a visit.

But, Jen asked for Margaret Island, so I'll discuss the most amazing waters in the city. Part of it is the Palatinus Baths, or Palas as the locals call them. There are several sections, some thermal, some cold. They have something for everyone there. There's a spa with it, and an enormous pool. It's the bath of Magaret Island, and a great place for the whole family.

The people of Hungary have declared swimming their national sport, and Margaret Island is ground zero. The Alfred Hajos National Swimming Stadium with four floors of swimming pools and training centers is one of the largest swimming centers in the world. It's open to the public year round. It has both indoor and outdoor facilities. It's a spectacle to see.

On other notes, there's also a water park on the island. There are a lot of places to enjoy the water and swim.

The best of the spas is associated with the Grand Hotel, the only luxury accommodations on the island. There is however, a hostel available as well and some private rentals of various kinds.

If you like water, but don't wish to swim, there's a musical fountain. You can't swim in that or the authorities will sack you with a hefty fine. They perform, just like at the Bellagio on a regular schedule.

The island has a historic water tower as well, which you can climb and overlook a good portion of the riverfront areas of the city.

Did I mention that Margaret Island sits in the middle of the city in the middle of the Danube River? It's a great spot. There's no driving on the island unless you're headed to a hotel or parking area. They are clearly marked, so don't drive outside the lines. Margaret Island is a pedestrian island. They have multiple means to get around from a train on wheels, to electric golf cars, Segways, scooters, carts with drivers, electric and pedal bikes that can haul up to 12 people. Other than that, you'll need to walk.

Margaret Island is full of gardens. There's British Gardens, Rose Gardens, and even Japanese Gardens. If you like to run, there's a specifically designed running path along the river. There's a lot of different areas for different activities. There's playgrounds for the kids, there's sculptures that you can climb up in. There's a museum. There's a lot to do. And, most of it is free. Can't stress that enough.

If you like to eat, they've got that covered. There are a couple of fancier restaurants on the island, but the best spot to eat is at what they call the buffets. Hippie Island, Wonder Island, Steg, and Champs are probably the best known eateries, but they have something for everyone. Just look for the giant Budapest sign.

Maps are available in several areas, as are souvenirs. It's a tourist paradise that comes with something for everyone. They even have a petting zoo for the kids; or for the adults if you love animals.

It's easy to spend days on the island, especially during the summer, but most of the island is open well into the fall and opens relatively early in the spring as well.

Budapest is an amazing historical city that pleases all of the senses well into the modern era. I visited many years ago, but in my mind it seems like yesterday. I remember every sight, every smell, every sound. I remember an open, honest, and yet friendly people. I remember some of the most beautiful architecture I ever saw. It was one of the greatest places I ever visited, and probably the area where I learned the most about my surroundings of any place I've ever visited.

There's a way in Budapest. It's not just the tourists going to the baths, thermal or cold, with or without spas. The locals see it as a traditional way of life. Remember, when you visit a bath, you'll be interacting with people who live there. That's what I call travel. You can't beat that.

Margaret Island is an amazing place sitting right in the middle of the Danube, where you can do pretty much any activity and is a must visit while in the city. It doesn't matter how you get there. You can even take a Viking River Cruise and stop there. You can walk, drive (as long as you park), take a boat. It's one of the loveliest places you'll ever visit.

So, Budapest is amazing. The culture, the activities, the history, the architecture, the people, the food, the view, the island, the opera, and everything else. It's a one of a kind place, with one of a kind things to see and do. So visit Margaret Island, take the funicular to Castle Hill, sit atop the Fisherman's Bastion while someone plays guitar, soak it all in and enjoy!

https://www.opera.hu/en/about-us/building/opera/

https://www.visitacity.com/en/budapest/attractions/hungarian-state-opera-house?campaginid=428242938&adgroupid=1280931466112115&targetid=kwd-80058452559674:loc-190&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Hungary%20Auto%20Attractions%20G-US-In-EUR&utm_term=about%20national%20opera%20house%20budapest&utm_content=Budapest%20G3%20-%20National%20Opera%20House

https://www.budapestbylocals.com/budapest-eye.html

https://justbudapest.com/the-jewish-quarter-of-budapest/

https://www.budapest.org/en/things-to-do-budapest/jewish-quarter/

https://www.offbeatbudapest.com/budapest-city-guide/neighborhoods/jewish-quarter-district-7/

https://welovebudapest.com/en/article/2021/11/17/sights-culture-once-upon-a-time-in-the-gypsy-quarter-of-buda

https://www.bigboytravel.com/europe/hungary/budapest/castle-hill-walking-tour/

https://www.offbeatbudapest.com/budapest-city-guide/neighborhoods/castle-hill-district-1/

https://timelesstravelsteps.com/2022/04/09/castle-hill-budapest-17-best-things-to-do/

http://www.budapest-discovery-guide.com/castle-hill-budapest.html

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g274887-d526980-Reviews-Palatinus_Strand-Budapest_Central_Hungary.html

https://www.budapestbylocals.com/palatinus-bath.html

https://www.gellertbath.hu/

http://szechenyispabaths.com/

https://www.introducingbudapest.com/spas-in-budapest

https://www.spasbudapest.com/

https://www.budapest.com/recreation_wellness/budapest_thermal_baths.en.html

https://rail.cc/budapest/station/c

https://www.raileurope.com/en-us/destinations/budapest-vienna-train

https://www.eurail.com/en/get-inspired/city-guides/budapest

https://www.tripsavvy.com/budapest-public-transportation-guide-4778146

https://www.sputnik8.com/en/budapest/pages/getting-around-budapest

https://www.offbeatbudapest.com/budapest-city-guide/getting-around-public-transportation-taxi/

https://www.budapest.com/travel/getting_around.en.html

https://www.introducingbudapest.com/getting-to-budapest

https://www.kayak.com/horizon/sem/flights/destination/c34945?lang=en&utm_campaign=Destination+-+HU+-+Budapest+-+City%2334945&utm_content=City+-+how+to+get+to+budapest+-+T%3Dhow+-+P%3Dget+to+-+D%3DCity%2334945&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=bing&utm_term=how+to+get+to+budapest&skipapp=true

https://www.cheapflights.com/horizon/sem/flights/destination/c34945?lang=en&utm_campaign=Destination+-+HU+-+Budapest+-+City%2334945&utm_content=City+-+how+to+get+to+budapest+-+T%3Dhow+-+P%3Dget+to+-+D%3DCity%2334945&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=bing&utm_term=how+to+get+to+budapest&skipapp=true

https://discount-fares.com/flights/city/budapest?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=europe_top_hungary_budapest&line=8777922039&msclkid=51c0f9d9816612e2f1359b1c7598514d

https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-budapest-safe/

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/hungary-travel-advisory.html

https://www.fodors.com/world/europe/hungary/budapest/restaurants

https://elitetraveler.com/finest-dining/restaurant-guide/the-11-best-restaurants-in-budapest

https://www.offbeatbudapest.com/top10/best-trendy-restaurant-budapest/

https://www.timeout.com/budapest/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-budapest

https://www.eater.com/maps/best-budapest-restaurants-18

https://www.visitacity.com/en/budapest/activities/all-activities?activitiesSearchByName=great%20market%20hall%20tour&sbi=Great%20Market%20Hall&sbn_sec=tour&actid=6916MARKET&campaginid=428242915&adgroupid=1284230000851782&targetid=kwd-80264610595964:loc-190&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Hungary%20ActivitiesA50X%20G-US-In-EUR&utm_term=great%20market%20hall%20budapest%20tour&utm_content=Great%20Market%20Hall%20Tour%20-%20AI:6916MARKET

https://www.milkandhoneytours.com/jewish-tours/budapest/

https://www.ricksteves.com/tours/eastern-europe/prague-budapest

https://www.mysteriumtours.com/budapest/

https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/budapest

http://www.budapestdaytrips.com/

https://www.withlocals.com/experiences/hungary/budapest/tours/

https://www.kensingtontours.com/travels/tours/europe?c3api=bing,1306220190675850,81638957606855&iv_=__iv_m_p_c_81638839354268_k_81638957606855_w_kwd-81638957606855:loc-4086_g_1306220190675850_n_o_e__h_44736_ii_139419_p_2_b_bp_d_c_vi__&mkwid=-dc%7Cpcrid%7C81638839354268%7Cpkw%7Ceurope%20tour%7Cpmt%7Cbp%7Cslid%7C%7Cpgrid%7C1306220190675850%7Cptaid%7Ckwd-81638957606855:loc-4086%7C&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=BING-Europe-May%202018&utm_term=europe%20tour&utm_content=-dc%7Cpcrid%7C81638839354268%7Cpkw%7Ceurope%20tour%7Cpmt%7Cbp%7Cslid%7C%7Cpgrid%7C1306220190675850%7Cptaid%7Ckwd-81638957606855:loc-4086%7C&pgrid=1306220190675850&ptaid=kwd-81638957606855:loc-4086&msclkid=d15bf5b20eff14c844459777fdae75f3

https://www.guruwalk.com/budapest

https://www.freetour.com/budapest

http://www.budapesttraveltours.com/

http://www.budapesttours.net/

https://www.budapest.com/things_to_do/sightseeing_tours.en.html

https://www.viator.com/tours/Budapest/Haunted-Budapest-Real-World-City-Exploration-Game/d499-107194P10?m=33953&supag=1240249278274158&supsc=dat-2329315383530665:loc-190&supai=77515665772028&supdv=c&supnt=nt:o&suplp=44736&supli=139419&supti=dat-2329315383530665:loc-190&tsem=true&supci=dat-2329315383530665:loc-190&supkw=tours%20budapest&msclkid=0d21969c304a12c68656f459c28c65cc

https://www.goaheadtours.com/tours/europe-tours?&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=US_Search_Europe_BMM&utm_group=Europe_Tour&utm_term=europe+tours&utm_content=o&mt=p&utm_device=c&invsrc=b.1403&msclkid=5eb1c09500e912f6cb66a250f22f73f7&gclid=5eb1c09500e912f6cb66a250f22f73f7&gclsrc=3p.ds

https://www.atlasobscura.com/things-to-do/budapest-hungary/places?page=1

https://www.thecrazytourist.com/25-best-things-budapest/

https://www.touropia.com/tourist-attractions-in-budapest/

https://www.budapestinfo.hu/webshop

https://www.getyourguide.com/-l29/?cmp=bing&cmp=bing&campaign_id=377864173&adgroup_id=1251244829047272&target_id=kwd-78203133966828%3Aloc-190&match_type=e&ad_id=78202949693783&msclkid=785d8c65a6371b60d2b1eea049459ea1&loc_physical_ms=44736&feed_item_id=&keyword=budapest%20visit&partner_id=CD951&utm_medium=paid_search&utm_source=bing&utm_campaign=dc%3D42%3Ahu%7Clc%3D29%3Abudapest%7Cct%3Dcore%7Cln%3D29%3Aen%7Ctc%3Dus&utm_term=budapest%20visit&gclsrc=3p.ds&utm_content=lc%3D29%3Abudapest%7Cfn%3Df3%7Cci%3D937%3Athings%20to%20do

https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/promotions.html?cid=SEM|BNG|999|c_72907375_kwd-26955199303:loc-71200_77240850375057&utm_id=sem:VRC-US-BNG-NB-NC-Europe-BMM/Phrase&utm_content=VRC-US-BNG-NB-NC-Europe-BMM/Phrase&msclkid=5cebe7d9770b198bf338851c9879540f&gclid=5cebe7d9770b198bf338851c9879540f&gclsrc=3p.ds

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs8OBIz7EMo

https://www.budapestpark.hu/events/margaret-island-20220806

https://www.expedia.com/Margaret-Island.dx6051652

https://welovebudapest.com/en/venue/margaret-island%20

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g274887-zfn8117140-Budapest_Central_Hungary.html

https://greatruns.com/budapest-hungary-margaret-island/

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/margaret-island-budapest-history-pilgrims-lovers-180958900/

https://fina-budapest2022.com/margaret-island/

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/hungary/articles/the-best-things-to-do-on-budapests-margaret-island-park/

https://www.budapestinfo.hu/margaret-island-1

https://www.budapestbylocals.com/margaret-island.html

https://www.introducingbudapest.com/margaret-island

https://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/hungary/margaret-island/budapest?k_clickid=&ds_cid=71700000090335838&ds_kids=p68990459349&ds_kid=39700068990459349&ksprof_id=700000002196404&ksdevice=c&ktarget=dat-2324642459279751:loc-190&kloct=139419&klocf=44736&ds_aid=58700007640073962&ha_t=:o:&&msclkid=9974446c60c61768393026a98bb5cbcf&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=VRB%3AUSA%3AENG%3A%24%3ADL%3AEMEA%3AHUN%3AX%3A553248635964611317%3AMCY%3ABudapest%3A179994%3AVR%3A-G13824233202&utm_term=MECE_GAIA%3A179994&utm_content=VRB%3AUSA%3AENG%3A%24%3ADT%3AEMEA%3AHUN%3AX%3APest_County%3A553248635964611317%3ABudapest%3A179994%3A%3A&gclid=9974446c60c61768393026a98bb5cbcf&gclsrc=3p.ds

https://budapestrivercruise.com/margaret-island-sights-river-danube-budapest

https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/margaret-island-budapest-hungary/index.html

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g274887-zff13-zfn8117140-Budapest_Central_Hungary-Hotels.html

https://www.budapest.com/city_guide/sights/parks/margaret_island.en.html

https://www.visitacity.com/en/budapest/activities/all-activities?activitiesSearchByName=margaret%20island%20tour&sbn_sec=tour&campaginid=437126022&adgroupid=1283130493713189&targetid=kwd-80195894402272:loc-190&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Budapest%20ActivitiesAC%20G-US-In-EUR&utm_term=margaret%20island%20budapest%20tour&utm_content=Budapest%20g30x%20-%20Margaret%20Island%20Tour

https://www.booking.com/hotel/hu/margitsziget.en-gb.html

https://www.ensanahotels.com/thermal-margaret-island/en

https://www.hungarybudapestguide.com/budapest/margaret-island/

https://justbudapest.com/margaret-island-budapest/#restaurants

https://bookinbudapest.com/palatinus-bath-margaret-island

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g274887-d276126-Reviews-Margaret_Island-Budapest_Central_Hungary.html

http://margaretislandbudapest.com/

https://www.getyourguide.com/budapest-l29/budapest-margaret-island-day-spa-admission-ticket-t393304/?cmp=bing&campaign_id=377151465&adgroup_id=1247946168886853&target_id=dat-2329796419836470%3Aloc-190&match_type=b&ad_id=77996766257198&msclkid=7db28381de821742fec4e1443a96b9f0&loc_physical_ms=44736&feed_item_id=&keyword=www.getyourguide.com&partner_id=CD951&utm_medium=paid_search&utm_source=bing&utm_campaign=ct%3Ddsa%7Cln%3D29%3Aen%7Ctc%3Dus&utm_term=www.getyourguide.com&gclsrc=3p.ds&utm_content=ct%3Ddsa%7Cfn%3Df1

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Wow! Merle Put the Maggies On My Bucket List! Welcome to Quebec's Magdalen Islands!

My friend and family, Merle, put this one directly on the bucket list. I hope I do it justice here, because Merle has been there, and she probably knows way more about it than I do.

Iles de la Madeleine, The Maggies, or as I know them, The Magdalen Islands. Until a few years ago, when Merle went there, I didn't know they existed. It's a place that flies under most people's radar. But, what is it about the Maggies?

The Magdalen Islands are a chain of at least eight islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Is that a real place you ask? Where on Earth is that, you might wonder. I know I did. The Maggies are a region of Quebec, Canada. The Gulf of St. Lawrence is where the St. Lawrence Seaway empties into the ocean. That's the Atlantic, by the way. The islands sit south of Newfoundland and Labrador and northwest of Nova Scotia. The only way there is by boat or plane. When I first heard of these islands, I thought they must be some of the most remote desolate frozen and boring islands in the world.

The tiny archipelago only covers about 70 square miles. But, as I found out, it's what you do with your space. From the sandstone cliffs to the massive beaches and dunes, to the road that traverses almost all of the main islands; there's so much to see and do! I was totally amazed!

Let's start with getting there. You can catch the ferry in Souris, Prince Edward Island. I understand that's the preferred way to get there by those in the know. The ferry will bring you to the harbor at Cap-Aux-Meules. The islands are very drivable, so that's why people prefer to take the ferry. So they can bring their cars. The ride is about five hours, give or take with several amenities on board. You can dine, drink, nap, watch a movie, and more. All the while cruising the North Atlantic. Sounds fab.

If you live way too far to drive, you can also fly. Air Canada, and some other carriers, offer routes to the airport in Cap-Aux-Meules. There are options to rent cars in the Magdalen Islands, so you can still drive around.

What in the world do you do while in a place like the Maggies? Where do I start. The population in the islands is French and Scottish for the most part. It is considered northern Acadia and was originally home to the First Nation's people known as the Mi'Kmaq. They called the islands Menagoesenog, if there wasn't already enough ways to refer to them. All of this leaves the area with some hearty people who speak multiple languages and both work and play hard.

The list of activities in the Magdalen Islands is amazing. You can go to the beach. They have several of varying kinds, and are great places to hang out, surf, swim, and make sand castles. That's right. The Maggies are full of swimmers. There's cave swimming, cliff diving, wind surfing, surfing, and being a beach bum if you like.

If the beach isn't your thing, try sea kayaking, kite flying, hiking, fishing, biking (both fat and regular tires depending on where you wish to go.). The entire connected island chain is bikable. Horseback riding is a big activity in the Magdalen Islands. Moped riding is also a thing there, with rentals available in a few places. Camping is one of the main things to do, as is digging for mussels. There's so much to do!

If you aren't a thrill seeker and don't wish to swim in the North Atlantic, I get that. I'm not sure I'd do that either. But, on the islands there's breweries, cider mills, all kinds of artisans at the outdoor living museum known as La Grave.

There's industry on these islands. There's a salt mine, and you can visit their museum. There's artisan glass around, made from the sand that covers all those dunes and beaches. There's art galleries, specialty cheese called Pied-de-Vent Cheese; an item that they used to export to France. Once again, there's so much happening in a place that only has 12,500 residents. They are amazing people.

If you're a foodie, the Maggies are for you. Who knew? The staple is seafood, no surprise. However, the cuisine is first rate and there are a lot of restaurants for you to try. There are so many restaurants you can spit from one to another. You'll have a hard time finding beef, but there is pork as well as fish and seafood. On most islands, the food is largely French. The people are mostly French. The history is largely French. Jacques Cartier is the first known European explorer to visit the islands. If you've never heard of him, there's bridge named after him in Montreal. He was a major player in the early days of what we now know as Eastern Canada. That being said, there are some local staples that you won't find in most places. They are a subsistence society, so some of the things that we don't eat in the rest of the world, because they're illegal, are legal in the Magdalen Islands. The main one is seal. What can I say? They need the fat and protein. If you don't wish to eat it, don't.

There are whale watches, seal watches, marine life watches, and even a chance to see walrus if you'd rather observe than ingest the majestic wildlife of the area.

The Mi'Kmaq People are the accepted first residents of the islands. Over the years, the Maggies have been part of France, other Canadian provinces and currently are part of Quebec. The current term for a resident of the Magdalen Islands is Madelinot. This is what they call themselves, and this is what keeps them united as locals.

So, what else can you see and do? You can take a boat to Entry Island. It's one of the only islands that isn't connected by causeway and road. There, you'll find one of the Maggies four lighthouses. The trip is a day trip, taking around five hours, giving you a lot of time on the island. The stories about the island and the lighthouse are fascinating. The island is also referred to as Dead Man's Island and there are ghost stories. Ask your guide. You'll want to hear the stories.

Don't forget to experience the combined culture of the Mi'Kmaq, Acadians, Scottish, and French people of the Magdalen Islands. The food is part of the culture, as is the crafts and drink. But, take time to discuss the brightly colored homes and how they came to look like they do. I have to say, I read that the fisherman used to paint their houses the same color as their boats to make sure they could find their way home and establish ownership evidence.

There are historic churches and villages to visit. Learn about the fishing industry, which founded the islands. There's so much to learn. The people of the islands have a fascinating history. It's worth learning. I promise.

There's a hill with an amazing view that you only have to climb 187 steps to summit. There are hiking and biking trails all over the place. There are cliffs and hills, and thanks to the lumber industry of days past, there's not a lot of trees to block the view.

If you don't like to figure it all out, you can book day tours too. Cap-Aux-Meules is the center of the islands, and that's where you do most of the tour booking. It makes sense as that's where the airport and ferry terminal are. I'm not ignoring the cruise from Montreal, down the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Maggies. It's just that since Covid-19, the cruise hasn't run, so I'm not really talking about it here. Hopefully next year. We'll see.

There's so many vacations in life that aren't an adventure. There's so many adventures that are disappointing. I'd never heard of the Magdalen Islands until Merle went there a few years ago. She knew something. She actually has family there. I have to put this one directly on my own bucket list. I have to see this place. It's Nordic, yet French. It's culture, yet rustic. The only chain business I saw in any of the videos and pictures that I saw was Tim Horton's. Accommodations are primarily small hotels, bed and breakfasts and air B&B type places. It's quaint and inviting. I can't imagine how wonderful it would be to visit there.

The climate is strangely warm as well. The summer's are warm and touristy. September and parts of October are unusually warm for the latitude, because of the Gulf Stream waters being diverted into the Gulf. It's a one of a kind place. Even in the winter, the islands remain warmer than most of the areas around therm. Fascinating.

So, try something completely different. Take a five hour ferry from almost the middle of nowhere to actual nowhere. When you get there, you'll find a whole world you had no idea existed. You'll find a lot of stuff to do, great food, industrious people, multiple cultures, exotic food, unexpected climate, and a whole lot of amazing fun. So, take that plunge. Make your way by boat or by plane to the Magdalen Islands and experience the surprise of a lifetime. Enjoy!

https://www.tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com/en/discover-the-islands/

https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-in-the-magdalen-islands-canada

https://www.campingbarachois.ca/en/home2/

https://www.magdalenislands.info/

https://www.foodandwine.com/travel/why-quebecs-magdalen-islands-is-for-food-lovers

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/canada/quebec/iles-de-la-madeleine/restaurants

https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowUserReviews-g445053-d2222470-r125916129-Les_Pas_Perdus-Iles_de_la_Madeleine_Quebec.html

https://www.thetravel.com/foodies-should-visit-magdalen-islands-in-quebec/

https://montreal.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-iles-de-la-madeleine-magdalen-islands-quebec-canada

https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fisheries-peches/ifmp-gmp/lobster-homard/area-zone-22-eng.html

https://acadie.cheminsdelafrancophonie.org/en/magdalen-islands-a-harbour-for-fishing-and-hunting-under-constraints/

https://www.quebecmaritime.ca/en/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-to-plan-a-trip-to-the-iles-de-la-madeleine