December 15, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Hawaii’s Magnificent Maui

It’s no surprise that Hawaii’s second largest island is often voted “world’s favorite” in reader polls. Maui’s combination of unspoiled beauty, quaint towns, and creature comforts is unmatched. The island’s trade winds give it a temperate year-round climate (75-85°F), making any time the right time to visit.

Maui is driest on the leeward (western) side, home to resort areas, Kapalua, Kaanapali, Kihei, Lahaina, and Wailea. The windward (eastern) side is wetter and more lush. Kahului Airport (OGG) has direct flights from major cities or take a hopper from Honolulu (HNL). There is public transportation available on the island, but rent a car to best experience the island’s hidden gems.

Land and sea activities abound: jet skiing, fishing, kayak tours, kite boarding, parasailing, rafting, whale watching, scuba diving, and surfing lessons. There is no shortage of group or private tours.

The Molokini Express launches beachside

HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCES:

Wailea Beach: Although this beach is lined with resorts and condos, it still remains clean and crowd-free. Popular hotels include Four Seasons, Marriott, Grand Wailea and new edition, Andaz. My husband and I were excited to return to the Four Seasons, where we had honeymooned 17 years ago. It was a different trip with two teens in tow, but equally enjoyable. The boys snorkeled and kayak fished right off the hotel’s beach, and cooled off in the resort pool with its own invigorating waterfall. Conveniently, there is also the secluded, adults-only Serenity Pool.

One afternoon, the kids worked out in the resort’s gym and kept busy in the game room, while we enjoyed a peaceful drink on the Lanai. Our dinners at Four Season’s restaurants Ferraro’s poolside (for Italian) and Spago (Wolfgang Puck’s Hawaiian-California cuisine) were top notch. We browsed the nearby “Shops at Wailea” and one evening took a ride to the Fairmont Hotel to dine outdoors at Nick’s Fish Market.

Gearing up for kayak fishing at the Four Seasons

Te Au Moana Luau: This traditional Hawaiian open-air feast, presented just down the beach at the Marriott, brings to life the history of Maui and its unique, Polynesian culture through music, song, and of course, fire eating and hula dancing. A Luau may sound touristy but this was actually a very professional and heartfelt show. Before dinner was served, the traditional roasted pig was lifted out of the Imu (an underground oven lined with banana leaves). The buffet table, filled with steaming plates of long rice, baked Mahi Mahi, chicken Adobo stew, and Kālua pork, was authentic and delicious. The sunset over the Pacific completed the picture.

A Luau performance conveys Hawaiian history through dance

Samoan Fire Dancers complete the show

Snorkeling in Molokini: To beat the crowds, we sailed out early on Kai Kanani’s charter catamaran (the Molokini Express) to this crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater located 2.5 miles off of Maui’s south shore. The curved basin creates ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving, providing a protective barrier against waves and currents and a home to over 250 species of fish. The trip includes a stop at Turtle Town, well known for its large turtle population. A memorable day, the sailing staff was helpful and patient with beginners (that would be me). Make sure to pack camera equipment or phones in waterproof bags because you will get wet boarding the catamaran from the beach.

Molokini’s crater serves snorkelers well

An underwater camera is a must for Maui

Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours: One of the best ways to fully appreciate the island is by air (over 90% of Hawaii is only accessible by helicopter). Catch a glimpse of Maui’s rainforest waterfalls, dormant volcanoes, and expansive green valleys.

Day trip to Lanai: Take a ferry or catamaran to this tranquil place, once known as Pineapple Island. With two high-end resorts (Four Seasons Manele Bay & the Lodge at Koele), Lanai offers secluded luxury and unspoiled nature. Rent a 4WD Jeep (make sure to grab a map) and embark on an off-road adventure, visiting stunning sights like Garden of the Gods and Shipwreck Beach via rugged, one-lane dirt trails.

Afternoon in Lahaina: Spend an afternoon walking around this historic whaling port, now a lively village. Our favorite eatery, Lahaina Grill, offers bistro style dining and true farm to table cuisine. Browse the shops on Front Street, grab dessert at Ono Gelato, and check out the weekly crafts market under the town’s famous supersized Banyan Tree – it is practically a block wide.

Evening in Paia: This former plantation village on the island’s northern coast is now a laid-back town oozing old world Maui charm. If you are headed to Hana, it’s a good stop-off point. Shop at Le Tarte for stunning swimsuits and cover-ups from this world-renowned Maui-based designer team and visit Maui Crafts Guild for locally made works of art. Then, head down to the beach and enjoy native Ahi tuna and Ono (Wahoo) at Polynesian-themed Mama’s Fish House.

Legendary lobster guacamole with house-made taro and sweet potato chips at Mama’s Fish House

Haleakāla Crater: Located in the National Park, this dormant volcano is 3,000 feet deep and 21 miles around—large enough to fit Manhattan! Sign up for a sunrise tour to catch it in its best light.

Road to Hana: This popular scenic coastal route features 56 miles of winding road with plenty of photo opportunities of ocean views, lush gardens, and sparkling waterfalls. (Be prepared, the round trip can take all day. Click on mauiinformationguide.com for more Road to Hana pointers.)

Resorts and condos front the crescent shores of Wailea

Travel tips: For more suggestions on how to make the most of a Hawaii vacation, check out my previous posts on Oahu and Waikiki, or check out gohawaii.com. Throughout our stay, we also made good use of the OpenTable app for restaurant recommendations – and, their newly-redesigned website is very user friendly.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER, enter your email address (top, right hand side of the blog or scroll towards the bottom if using cell phone) and then respond to the follow-up email.

November 23, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Weekend in Waikiki, Oahu

My last post covered all that is Oahu – “Hawaii’s Happening Island.” But, no visit is complete without a stay in Waikiki, Honolulu’s bustling international oceanfront neighborhood, chock-a-block with resorts, hotels, shops, and restaurants—the perfect contrast to the island’s more remote and pristine, natural settings, highlighted in my recent article. Whether relaxing for a few days or making a brief layover en route to another island, make sure to check out all that awaits you in Waikiki.

HERE IS A SAMPLING OF SOME OF OUR FAVORITE SPOTS:

Orchids: Located at the Halekulani, this lovely oceanfront restaurant offers an international menu with plenty of seafood and steak. Reserve a spot on the patio for dramatic sunset views, or come on a Sunday for their excellent brunch.

Alan Wong’s: Reservations are a must at Chef Wong’s James Beard award-winning, Hawaiian-regional cuisine restaurant. Its unusual location atop a non-descript office building belies the unique menu, artful presentation, and upscale ambiance that await you within.

Roy’s: Yes, it is part of a large chain of restaurants, but Roy’s can always be counted on for dependable, Pacific Rim fusion cuisine and professional service. It’s a Hawaii original.

House without a Key: This spacious, open-air restaurant at the Halekulani is a great place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or stop by for a signature Mai Tai and a pre-supper appetizer and listen to some Hawaiian-themed musical entertainment. The restaurant takes its name from the first Charlie Chan Noir mystery novel set in 1920’s Hawaii.

A hike up to Diamond Head rewards you with breathtaking vistas of Waikiki

Hula Grill: This beachside eatery with amazing views of Diamond Head is the place for a reasonably priced breakfast in Waikiki. Indulge in Maui Pineapple and Coconut Buttermilk Pancakes and delicious Kona coffee. Located at the Outrigger Waikiki.

Hotels and Resorts: Here are just a few recommendations for beachfront hotels in Waikiki: Halekulani; Royal Hawaiian (The Pink Palace); Moana Surfrider (the city’s first hotel built in 1901); and Hilton Hawaiian Village. Waikiki’s beach has experienced some erosion over the years, so not every beachfront hotel features a sprawling expanse of sand; if that is important to you, make sure to do your research prior to booking.

A stay at the Halekulani offers you views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head

Kallakaua Avenue & Kuhio Avenue: In the mood for shopping? These two main shopping streets are a great place to stroll and shop, from high end to kitschy souvenir shops.

Waikiki Beach Walk: Lewers Street has been completely rebuilt and transformed into a hub for all-suite and resort hotels, stores, and cafes, and yes, even a Starbucks. Stop in at Quiksilver for board shorts, Crazy Shirts for fun, logo T’s, and Island Sole, for fantastic “slippers” (that’s flip flops to us mainlanders).

Royal Hawaiian Center: Had enough of the sun? Take an afternoon stroll around this open-air, four-level shopping and dining complex with a convenient food court on level two.

ABC Stores: A convenience store and souvenir shop all rolled up in one. A great place to stock up on beach supplies, grocery items and snacks, inexpensive gifts, and health and beauty products. They are open early and stay open late every day.

Ala Moana Shopping Center: If you really can’t survive without some retail therapy, head to Hawaii’s largest shopping center for souvenirs and gifts—everything from high end to beach fashion, it’s all under one roof.

Atlantis Submarine: We didn’t have a chance to go, but this was recommended by the concierge for a view of Oahu from beneath the waves. The narrated tour gives you a close up view of tropical fish and sunken ships. To get a discount, book your tickets online. (But, keep in mind, if you are claustrophobic, this would not be a good choice!)

Pearl Harbor: My last post mentioned this moving site, but make sure to take time to visit all the stops (besides the USS Arizona Memorial): USS Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum, and Pacific Aviation Museum – all are connected by a shuttle. Pick up the excellent audio tour so you don’t miss out on a bit of history. Due to increased security, no handbags, back packs, or diaper bags are allowed, so be sure to check them at the lockers or better yet, leave non-valuables in your car.

Tour Guide: You will not be disappointed if you book with Keawe Adventures. Their experienced guides can arrange snorkeling, surfing, historic tours, Pearl Harbor tours, military history tours and more, and they will meet you right at your Waikiki hotel.

Diamond Head: Before you go home, make sure to hike to the top of this former military installation to get the perfect bird’s eye view of all that is Waikiki and help seal your memories of this beautiful place.

USS Arizona Memorial–a somber tribute to America’s fallen heroes

Oahu’s Pacific coastal beauty greets you at every turn

To complete your Hawaiian adventure, stay tuned for my next post on Maui, Hawaii.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog, or scroll all the way to the bottom, and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder).

October 31, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Oahu: Hawaii’s Happening Island

Oahu, Hawaii’s third largest and most populated island may not always be a traveler’s first pick when island hopping around the 50th state, but it should be. Home to the state capital, (Honolulu), Oahu offers the perfect combination of big city amenities and idyllic hideaways. For some great visuals, catch a glimpse of the island in Hollywood hits like Jurassic Park, The Descendants, and Pearl Harbor, or classic films such as Tora! Tora! Tora! and From Here to Eternity.

Our recent trip to Hawaii included a stop on Oahu, and in four days, we managed to squeeze in all manner of sightseeing, snorkeling, sun, and surf.

HERE IS A LIST OF OUR ISLAND FAVORITES:

Pearl Harbor: The bombing of Pearl Harbor (December 7, 1941) propelled the U.S. into WWII, destroyed twelve American warships and 188 aircraft and killed 2,335 American servicemen and 68 civilians. Explore on your own (go early or reserve a spot online) or hire a guide to escort you through memorable and moving sites like the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial.

Keawe Adventures: We used this company to give us a personal and educational day tour of Pearl Harbor (they will purchase entry tickets for you in advance). A Keawe guide can meet you at your hotel and escort you on a variety of other island tours—snorkeling, fly fishing, historic tours, and surfing lessons, to name just a few.

Byodo-In Temple: Take scenic Pali Highway north and visit this Buddhist temple located at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. Built in 1968 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii, it’s actually a replica of a 950-year–old temple in Japan. Even on a rainy day, we enjoyed the lush grounds stopping to feed the 10,000 Japanese Koi, studying the (nine-foot) meditation Buddha, and taking a turn ringing the (three-ton) brass temple bell—it brings good luck!

The serene Byodo-In Temple was featured in an episode of ABC’s “Lost”

Kailua: After a visit to the temple, head east to Kailua Beach where you can rent a kayak or paddle board or just run your feet through the fine, white sand. Take a lunch break on the deck at local favorite, Buzz’s Original Steakhouse, right across the street. Afterwards, pick up Highway 72 and head south along the windward coast—it takes you on a dramatic and winding ride to the southern coast with views of Mānana Island, also known as Rabbit Island.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail: It may be a little narrow, but this one-hour trail hike can be handled by most people. The trail takes you around the 646-foot-high sea bluff on which the lighthouse is perched and offers you gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.

The turquoise waters of Kailua Beach are a hub for water sports

Diamond Head State Monument: Hike to the summit for perfect 360-degree vistas of Honolulu and Waikiki. This .8-mile trip takes you to the top of this (750-ft.) volcanic cone, which once served as a military installation. The hike includes several switchbacks and some almost vertical steps; it’s steep but not too difficult. Wear rubber soled shoes and download a flashlight app to light the way through some dark tunnels. Get there early for a spot in the parking lot and allow an hour for the complete hike (plus extra time to stop and take gorgeous pictures from the bunkers and lookout points).

Kahala Hotel: This lovely beachside resort is a good place to stop for lunch after a rigorous hike up Diamond Head. Treat yourself to a Mai Tai, and sit outside on the terrace at Plumeria Beach House and enjoy the stunning coastal views and Pacific breezes.

Polynesian Cultural Center: We did not get a chance to go, but many recommended this destination, sort of a cross between a theme park and a living museum. If you are unfamiliar with Polynesian island culture, or have never been to a luau, this would be a good option.

Waikiki: Honolulu’s bustling oceanfront neighborhood is chock-a-block with resorts, hotels, shops, restaurants and nightlife. Click here to read my article on where to stay, where to eat, and what to do in Waikiki.

Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu, Hawaii

A view of the massive crater of Diamond Head State Monument

Take time to explore the Pacific Aviation Museum during a visit to Pearl Harbor

NORTH SHORE POINTS OF INTEREST:

Although Oahu’s North Shore has become synonymous with surfing, it offers so much more. It’s easy to spend a long day meandering along its coastal route, stopping to visit the tiny towns, coves, and beaches along the way. If you prefer an extended stay, check into tranquil Turtle Bay Resort.

Haleiwa: This famous North Shore rustic beach town, 34 miles from Waikiki, features a honkytonk main street lined with boutiques, cafes, crafts, and Hawaiian shaved ice stands. There’s also plenty of fishing charter boats and tackle shops. Stop at one of the famous retro shrimp trucks for a plate of succulent garlic and butter shrimp. Our favorite truck? “Big Wave” on Kamehameha Highway.

Sharks Cove: Rated by Scuba Diving Magazine as one of the “Top Twelve Shore Dives in the World,” this small, rocky bay’s blue waters host an impressive amount of sea life. Make sure to wear sturdy water shoes since the bottom is lined with large smooth boulders and coral, which form small caves making perfect habitats for fish. Just to the south of the cove is Pupukea with its child-friendly tide pools. Go EARLY to beat the crowds. Across the way is Sharks Cove Grill, a “no-frills roadside food truck.” Order a plate of tasty shrimp skewers and rice and take a seat at their outdoor picnic tables.

Waimea Beach Park: This expansive and deep, bowl-shaped beach features gentle waves in the summer, great for little kids, and good for snorkeling near the reefs. In the winter, when the waves are rough, it attracts big wave surfing. Make a day of it and explore the nearby botanical gardens and Waimea Falls.

Dole Pineapple Plantation: On the way up to the North Shore or on your way back to Waikiki, stop here for a tour and a bit of island heritage and savor what fresh pineapple really tastes like.

A visit to Haleiwa is not complete without a stop at its famous shrimp trucks

Catch a glimpse of butterfly fish, parrot fish, tang, and trigger fish at Sharks Cove

After a morning snorkel, Sharks Cove Grill’s steaming grilled shrimp hits the spot

Spending time in Waikiki? Click here to read my article on where to stay, where to eat, and what to do in Waikiki.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog, or scroll all the way to the bottom, and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder).

September 22, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

London: 22 Top Shops

According to Webster’s Dictionary, a souvenir is a memento of a special place you have visited. Mass-produced or hand crafted, it’s carefully transported home by a traveler. I would add to that definition: something that tastes good, smells good, or makes you feel good.

During many visits to London, we have always returned with our bags a little heavier than when we embarked. We love to bring home a few reminders of our trip to share with friends and family, or to keep the “international flavors” of London alive in our home. We try to limit our browsing to stores not found in the States or other major cities around the globe.

Here is just a sampling of some of our favorite London shops arranged by neighborhood or street:

KNIGHTSBRIDGE/BELGRAVIA

Harrod’s: Head straight to the food halls of this famous department store for an endless array of goodies. On the second floor, explore the small but well-stocked bookshop and gift shop for fun Harrod’s logo products like tea towels and totes.

Harvey Nichols: Wander through the main floor of this flagship store for a dizzying display of beauty and perfume products then venture upstairs to the extensive food hall and sushi bar.

Grab some sweets from Harrods’ gift shop

MARYLEBONE

Rococo Chocolates: This chocolatier offers uniquely flavored confections including Moroccan mint or chili pepper, dark chocolate. Lovely hand-painted chocolates come in comical shapes like cows, lobsters, and fish. My favorite—a mini carton of chocolate speckled hen’s eggs filled with salted caramel.

La Fromagerie: This country-style shop features a signature walk-in cheese room with an extensive variety of farmhouse cheeses. Fill your bag with homemade jams and chutneys, and hand-cured meats, or enjoy a hearty breakfast or lunch at their café.

Ortigia: An Italian company selling soaps and fragrances, beauty products and candles made from natural ingredients and olive oil sourced directly from Sicily, presented in handmade packaging that reflects the designs of the region.

Rococo Chocolates’ tiny shop is chock-full of delights

Stop by La Fromagerie for fantastic finds for foodies

MAYFAIR

Smythson: Although there is a store in Manhattan, I still enjoy visiting the Bond Street location of this British manufacturer that sells stationery and leather goods in a gorgeous array of saturated colors.

Burlington Arcade: Take a walk through this glass-covered, two-story shopping arcade that runs behind Bond Street from Piccadilly to Burlington Gardens. Follow your nose to Penhaligon’s for unique, made-in-England perfumes presented in signature Victorian-era designed glass bottles with distinctive ribbon-wrapped stoppers.

On a rainy day, the glass vaulted Piccadilly Arcade would come in handy

OXFORD/REGENT STREETS

Hamleys: You will need some time to explore this seven-floor toy emporium, Britain’s oldest and largest. Pick up stuffed Paddington Bears, Harry Potter collectibles, Tower Bridge puzzles and more.

Liberty: Known for their world-renowned fabrics, this department store, housed in an iconic Tudor Revival Arts & Crafts-style building, is filled with beautiful home goods, accessories, and clothing in their signature prints.

Selfridges: This British department store is far from run of the mill. Always looking for ways to stand out, it recently opened the world’s first in-store cinema showing classic and new releases. Why not relax after a “hard day” of shopping?

PICCADILLY/ST. JAMES/PALL MALL

Cath Kidson: Known for its home furnishings, accessories, and clothing created from their witty novelty and vintage inspired prints. Especially love their London-themed collection—adorably illustrated with iconic city sites like red double decker buses, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey.

Cool Britannia: Yes, its touristy and cheesy, but great fun. This is THE place for kitschy British souvenirs and novelty goods—from Beatles bobble heads to Union Jack boxers to red telephone booth salt and pepper pots.

Fortnum and Mason: This graceful 18th century department store is well known for its endless displays of loose-leaf teas, biscuits, chocolates, coffees, and preserves packed in their signature brightly hued tin containers—a feast for the eyes and the stomach!

Jermyn Street: Dating back to 1664, this little street tucked behind Piccadilly, lined with men’s tailors, shirt makers, and haberdashers, takes you back to a time when quality and craftsmanship was king.

Floris: British family perfumers since 1730, they offer a collection of perfumes, bath products, and home fragrances in their quaint, jewel-box like shop, still run by descendants of the founders.

Lillywhites: This large sporting goods retailer is the place to pick up jerseys and t-shirts emblazoned with the logo of your favorite footballers—Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool—that’s soccer to us Yanks.

Waterstones: Yes, this is a huge international bookseller, but their Piccadilly store is a great place to pick up travel books or children’s and young adults’ books you might not find at home. The top floor café makes a good pit stop to grab a snack (or use the facilities).

Farlows: This outpost for fly-fishing supplies was on my boys’ list. Wanting to stock up before heading out to Hampshire, they carefully perused row after row of flies, and thanked the patient salesman who placed a few complimentary samples in their tackle box upon check-out.

Cath Kidson caters to the child in all of us

Fortnum & Mason’s iconic biscuits

The boys picked out fishing flies at Farlows

CITYWIDE

Markets: Check the local paper, your concierge, or Timeout magazine to find opening days and times of the city’s best markets like Portobello Road and Camden Market.

Museum Shops: Some of the BEST bookstores and gift shops are located in museums. My favorites include: the British Museum, Churchill War Rooms, Imperial War Museum, Royal Academy of Arts, National Portrait Gallery, and V&A Museum.

Supermarkets: For inexpensive food gifts, stop by Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose. All have rows of chocolates, condiments, chutneys and other delights. My son never leaves without some Cadbury dairy-milk chocolate and I always grab a few bottles of Belazu balsamic vinegar glaze.

Royal Collection Shops: For all you “Royal Watchers,” these shops, located at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, have a wide variety of quality-made products inspired by items in the Royal Collection, from fine bone china adorned with the Palace Coat of Arms to Victorian-style costume jewelry to stuffed corgis (the Queen’s top dog).

Put museum bookstores on your browsing list

The Royal Collection is sold at the palace shops and at Harrods

GETTING HUNGRY after all that shopping? Check out my recent article: 18 Favorite Places to Eat in London, also arranged by neighborhood. Cheers!

TRAVEL TRIP: Bookmark this article on your smartphone and take it with you on your next trip to London. And, combine your visit to the city with a weekend in the country — click here to see my recent article on Hampshire, England.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog, or scroll all the way to the bottom on a smart phone, and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder).

August 13, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

London: 18 Favorite Places to Eat

Isn’t sampling the local food and enjoying a taste of flavors not readily available at home a primary reason to travel? If you haven’t visited London recently, the thriving restaurant scene that has developed there will pleasantly surprise you and satisfy your desire for culinary diversity.

On our last trip to London, we had the chance to enjoy a variety of cuisines from high end to street fare. Smoked salmon, dim sum, and, of course, the fish & chips, all tasted better than their U.S. counterparts. Make reservations in advance if you can, even for lunch, and check out OpenTable.co.uk, the online real-time restaurant reservation service—it’s a great way to secure a table. Also, contact your hotel concierge—an expert at finding a seat at the busier spots.

Here is just a sampling of some of our favorites arranged by neighborhood:

KNIGHTSBRIDGE & BELGRAVIA:

Daphne’s: Recently refurbished and reopened after a fire, this local Italian restaurant has a smart but not uptight atmosphere and a hearty menu—a great choice for lunch or dinner after visiting the Natural History or Science Museum.

Harrods: Fill a picnic hamper with an endless variety of treats in this store’s extensive food halls. From chocolates to cheeses, macarons to meat pies—the list goes on forever. Or, take a seat at Harrod’s more than 25 restaurants including Mango Tree for delicious dumplings and The Terrace for a light lunch overlooking London.

Oliveto: This is actually one of six casual, low-key Olivo restaurants, all serving a variety of authentic, homemade, Italian specialties from the isle of Sardinia. My favorite – Oliveto’s crab pizza.

Zuma: A modern twist on the traditional Japanese izakaya style, where dishes are meant to be shared. Order the seared beef skewers with soy, garlic, ginger, and chili, or scallops with ume boshi (Japanese plums) and mentaiko (Pollock roe).

Zuma’s mouthwatering beef skewers and scallops

These lovely cakes in London’s famous food halls are actually only about 5 inches in diameter

Hours can be spent wandering through Harrod’s fabled food halls

MAYFAIR & PICCADILLY:

Caviar House & Prunier: Stop at this seafood bar for a pre-dinner drink and a taste of caviar and Smoked Balik Salmon, sourced directly from Norwegian farmers and prepared following the recipe of the purveyor to the Russian tsars.

Cecconi: A classic Italian restaurant serving simply prepared Venetian cuisine; it’s just across the street from the Royal Academy of Arts.

The Coburg Bar: Located in the Connaught Hotel, this bar boasts a warm, country house feeling – the perfect place to end a day of sightseeing with a nightcap.

Dorchester Hotel: Visit The Promenade in this iconic hotel’s lobby for afternoon tea, or come back at night for jazz at the bar. Downstairs is China Tang for genuine Cantonese food.

Hakassan: This hip and dramatic, belowground restaurant offers excellent dim sum.

Scotts: The place for seafood, it’s just around the corner from the Connaught Hotel. If the restaurant is booked, sit at the Oyster Bar for a fun change of pace.

Shepard’s Market: Not a market, but a charming, hidden piazza with sidewalk cafes and Victorian pubs, between Piccadilly and Curzon Street.

The Wolseley: This café-restaurant offers traditional full English breakfast. For the uninitiated, this includes fried eggs, slabs of bacon, baked beans, broiled tomato, and toast placed unbuttered in quaint metal racks. Lunch and dinner is also served in this impressive, high-ceiling setting.

The Ritz: Enjoy traditional afternoon tea in this hotel’s famous gilded salon, The Palm Court. Enjoy a selection of loose-leaf teas, cut finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber and egg, and pastries and teacakes. Leave room for the freshly baked scones served with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves.

At The RItz, the teacakes and scones are continuously refilled by your server

Indulging in Afternoon Tea at The Ritz — a real treat for my son, Jack!

MARYLEBONE HIGH STREET

Relais de Venise: This Parisian bistro offers something very unique, just one choice— green salad with walnuts dressed with mustard vinaigrette, steak frites in a secret-recipe, herb sauce, followed by a selection of cheeses and desserts. Reservations aren’t accepted, but it’s definitely worth the wait.

SOHO

Randall & Aubin: Originally a French butcher shop, they offer a no-fuss seafood menu in a retro, turn-of-the-last century setting. Take a seat at their counter-style tables and order the fried haddock & chips served with yummy, minted peas.

CITY OF LONDON

Heron Tower: The financial district’s tallest tower features several restaurants including Sushi Samba on the 38^th floor. Enjoy a blend of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine and 360 degree views of the city.

Borough Market: Peruse row after row of London’s freshest produce, meats, confections, seafood and more or take a break at one of the Market’s many sit-down eateries including Roast, well known for its breakfast.

CITYWIDE

London’s Famous Markets: Grab a slice of local life with a visit to one of London’s numerous markets available throughout the city on various days, including Camden Market with its eclectic mix of street culture and street food.

Camden Market’s Global Kitchen dishes out the best in London street food

The Seafood Bar at Caviar House & Prunier — a nice place to linger

End the night with a handcrafted cocktail at cozy Coburg Bar

Travel tip: Bookmark this article on your smartphone and take it with you on your next trip to London. And, combine your visit to the city with a weekend in the country — click here to see my recent article on Hampshire, England.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog, or scroll all the way to the bottom, and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder).

June 21, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Grand Cayman’s Superb Seven-Mile Beach

Although Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach is actually only 5.5 miles long, this gorgeous crescent-shaped stretch of coral and sand does not short change you on pleasure. Voted one of the best beaches by Caribbean Travel + Life Magazine, a leisurely walk on this lush, palm-tree lined shore will take you past condos, villas, and luxury and mid-priced resorts all just steps away from crystal clear blue Caribbean waters.

A snorkeler’s and diver’s paradise, the Cayman Islands, located in the Western Caribbean, 460 miles south of Miami, include Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman – together they represent an overseas territory of Great Britain. The islands are actually the tops of pinnacles that reach up from the Cayman Trench, one of the world’s deepest sections of ocean. Beyond the beach—perfect for paddle boarding, kayaking, and sailing—we embraced Grand Cayman’s quiet Caribbean charm, explored the local restaurants and shops, and strolled through George Town, the island’s quaint capital.

[ The boys spent most of the week underwater ]

Things to do and places to see:

Stingray City & Stingray Sandbar: This excursion lives up to its reputation as the “experience of a lifetime.” Home to over 75 Southern Stingrays, these two separate sites give you a chance to snorkel in twelve feet of water, or safely stand on a sand bar in two to four feet of water with these gentle, graceful giants who swim freely in their natural habitat.

Cayman Turtle Farm: Not just a tourist attraction, but also a conservation facility that raises and protects endangered Green Sea Turtles. Swim with turtles, dip into the touch tank, and learn about Cayman marine life.

Blue Iguana Safari Tour: The Recovery Program has helped protect Cayman’s largest endangered land animal–it can grow up to five feet long. The daily 1.5-hour tour goes behind the scenes and provides an up close view of these dragon-like lizards.

Hell: Many locals will recommend that you “go to Hell,” which of course refers to the humorously titled tiny town in West Bay, named for the blackened calciferous rock formations found there. Take a minute to send a “postcard from Hell!”

Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment: The Ritz Carlton’s excellent family program offers unique, environmentally based activities. My two teenage boys enjoyed a night snorkel, joined a shipwreck dive, and took an underwater photography class. There’s plenty of educational and engaging programming for little kids as well.

Six Senses Cayman Adventures: We did not have time to go, but the concierge highly recommended this tour company, which specializes in group and private island-wide eco-tours.

Camana Bay: This lively waterfront town center offers an eclectic mix of shopping, cinema, dining, and special events. We especially loved the well-stocked shelves of Books & Books, Bay Market specialty and organic food store, and Ginger Lily Frozen Yogurt.

Divers Supply: Located in the West Shore Center, stop by to stock up on diving, snorkeling, and beach supplies.

Guy Harvey Gallery & Shop: My fish-loving children picked up t-shirts adorned with this artist/scientist/conservationist’s gorgeous marine-themed artwork.

[ Seven Mile Beach is stunning, even on a cloudy day ]

Places to eat and places to sleep:

Ortanique: Traditional Caribbean dishes with a modern twist. Located in Camana Bay—take a seat outside for dramatic water views.

Pappagallo’s: A waterside, Northern Italian restaurant with a Caribbean flair with plenty of pasta and fresh seafood on the menu.

Andiamo: On a balmy evening, we enjoyed dinner on the terrace overlooking a tranquil lagoon at the Ritz Carlton. An added bonus—they show nightly family-friendly movies on their outdoor giant movie screen under the stars.

Bread and Chocolate: This George Town café offers a vegan menu for breakfast and lunch.

Casanova by the Sea: A homey, local Italian restaurant in George Town. Grab a seat on the veranda for excellent views of the harbor and cruise ships.

Looking for a resort on Seven Mile Beach? Check out the Ritz Carlton, Marriott Beach Resort, or the Westin, or try the Caribbean Club beachfront villas—all excellent choices.

Silver Rain Spa: The Ritz Carlton’s serene La Prairie-affiliated spa transports Switzerland to the tropics. Before jetting back home to reality, indulge in a much-deserved massage to soothe body and soul.

[ The boys met up with this smiling fish in their underwater photography class ]

Seven Mile Beach, Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman

[ The Caribbean’s “Best Beach” does not disappoint ]

[ We caught the wind and the waves in a Hobie Cat ]

For more information: caymanislands.ky or explorecayman.com (they both have convenient iPhone apps)

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER of unique family traveler, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog (or scroll ALL the way to the bottom), and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder).

May 29, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Costa Rica: Perfectly Positioned for Adventure

Although it’s smaller than West Virginia, Costa Rica is chock-full of national parks, active volcanoes, and natural, protected zones, the perfect setting for a thrill-seeking vacation. This tropical, Central American country, positioned between Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the southeast, has become the most prosperous, stable, and progressive nation in Latin America. With the Pacific Ocean to the west and Caribbean Sea to the east, its two coasts offer world-class sport fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling just a short distance off its white and black sand beaches. From surf camps to five-star hotels, there are a variety of properties to sample, accessible from the country’s two international airports, San Jose and Liberia.

Costa Rica, known for its rich biodiversity, was one of the first countries to focus on ecotourism and sustainability, with most high-end hotels utilizing innovative green technologies on property. Planning a one-week stay? Focusing on either the northern or southern region would be an option.

Please check out my guest blog on Four Seasons website to read all about our adventures on Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica’s northwestern Guanacaste region.

The boys spent hours snorkeling off of Playa Vilador

Costa Rica Looking for a day trip? Some “don’t miss” sites include: Palo Verde National Park, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, and Monteverde Cloud Forest.

Costa Rica

A boat trip down the Tempisque River puts you up close with the wildlife

Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s natural beauty does not disappoint

On our excursion to the Tempisque River, we learned that cashews grow outside their companion fruit

Learning to scuba in Blanca Pool

uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER of unique family traveler, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog (or scroll ALL the way to the bottom), and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder).

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

May 8, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Hampshire: An Edu-vacation in England’s countryside

I’m pleased to announce my guest blogging stint for Four Seasons hotels, “Have Family will Travel,” which details our recent trip to Hampshire, England. After spending a long weekend in London, we ventured out of the city to experience the English countryside, making stops in Stonehenge and Bath before arriving to the Four Seasons Hampshire – a lovely Georgian estate in Dogmersfeld, 48 miles southwest of London.

Four Seasons Hampshire

Relaxation time on a family vacation is key, but we also relish enriching and educational experiences for our boys, 12 and 15. Travel can broaden their minds, sharpen their skills, and encourage them to embrace new environments. From outdoor sports steeped in history to excursions back in time, the experience sparked their curiosity as they pursued their passions in this country home away from home.

Riding: Although I am a novice, I was eager to visit the Equestrian center. Advised to wear thick trousers, I was professionally outfitted with riding boots, gloves, and helmut. The instructor gave me a quick tutorial, and then led me on an informal half-hour hack through the fields. Riding up high offered a lovely new perspective on the estate grounds, and we even had a chance to circle near Belvedere Pond and say “hello” to my boys as they fished. I’d like to think they are quite impressed with their mom’s horsemanship! Children will love the “Own a Pony” experience: two hour sessions for kids seven to 16 on how to care for their own horse, ride included.

Fishing: After pulling on complimentary Wellingtons in the lobby, the guys ambled down to Belvedere Pond for a morning of fishing with John, our expert guide. He came well equipped with fly rods, reels, flies and nets, and loads of advice on the fine art of fly-fishing. Shouting “Fish on!”, the boys were in their glory, catching and releasing colorful rainbow trout. They returned the next day for a round of rod-and-reel fishing.

The boys couldn’t wait to drop a line in Belvedere Pond

Clay pigeon shooting: After a quick walk to the estate’s South Field, we were warmly greeted by Brian, the nattily dressed shooting instructor. He spent several minutes outlining the safety instructions and describing the five-platform shooting circuit, dispensing equipment and ear protection. Brian provided plenty of assistance to my younger son, a beginner, and gave expert tips to my older son and husband, both experienced riflemen.

Cycling: We picked up a pocket map from the concierge and headed out for an off-road adventure, exploring the miles of trails that traverse the property. The Spa provided us with bikes of all sizes, helmets and water bottles. On our ride, we stopped at Tundry Pond and biked near the farms to greet the lively pigs in their pens and the shaggy, longhaired Highland Cows dining on pasture land.

The Four Seasons Hampshire all season pool

Canal walk: One afternoon, we walked along the scenic towpath of Basingstoke Canal, which winds its way throughout the estate.

DAY TRIPS FROM HAMPSHIRE:

Stonehenge & Bath: Iconic Stonehenge is the ancient stone circle aligned with the movements of the sun, raised 4,500 years ago by a sophisticated prehistoric people. Bath is the site of the famous Roman Spa, which still flows with natural hot water—the UK’s only hot springs. Together, they make a perfect historical day trip.

Stonehenge

Bath

Highclere Castle: Even if you’re not a “Downton Abbey” fan, a visit to the massive, real-life home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnavon is worth it. An added bonus was the Egyptian Exhibit displaying King Tut’s artifacts famously discovered 100 years ago by the 5th Earl of Carnavon and archeologist Howard Carter.

Hampton Court Palace: We could’ve spent hours exploring the rooms of this historic royal Tudor/Baroque palace on the Thames. The kids also loved the lush Privy Gardens, the Hedge Maze, the 240-year-old Great Vine and the Chocolate Kitchen.

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey

For tips on sightseeing, shopping and eating in London, please read my recent posts:

London: 22 Top Shops
London Top Ten
London: 18 Favorite Places to Eat

Looking for an expert tour guide in England? Check out Mirandus Tours for top notch walking and driving tours of London and the countryside.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

April 11, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Laguna Beach: California’s Pacific Pearl

Although it ranks third (behind Alaska and Florida) in miles of state coastline, California is world renowned for its beautiful beaches that stretch all the way from its border with Oregon in the north to Mexico in the south. Perched halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach (Orange County) ranks as one of the state’s “Top Ten Beaches” by the Travel Channel. With the blue Pacific to the west and majestic canyons to the east, Laguna’s seven miles of sand and surf have become a magnet for nature lovers, beach goers, and culture hounds.

Originally a small art enclave, Laguna Beach has developed into a top resort city and destination for world-class artists, yet still preserves its laid-back charm. Its mild, year-round, Mediterranean-like climate attracts surfers, paddle boarders and boogie boarders. A walkable downtown area with an eclectic mix of stores and restaurants is a delightful place to cool off after a day of “hangin’ ten” or simply soaking up the rays. Over the course of many summer-time visits to see family and friends, Laguna has also provided us with the perfect jumping off point for day trips to popular tourist attractions in San Diego (SeaWorld and San Diego Zoo) and Los Angeles (Venice Beach and Universal Studios).

Salt Creek Beach, Dana Point, Laguna NIgel, California

Stunning Salt Creek Beach as viewed from the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel

Planning a trip to Laguna Beach? Here are a few of unique family traveler’s top picks:

Forest Avenue: Extending east from Laguna’s popular Main Beach on North Coast Highway (Route 1), this pleasant street is lined with boutiques, ice cream shops, restaurants and galleries—many filled with locally-made crafts and artwork. Make a reservation at 230 Forest Avenue for delicious bistro cuisine.

Gelato Paradiso: More than 30 handcrafted flavors of gelato and sorbetto await you at this tiny shop tucked into Peppertree Lane off of Route 1. My favorite—chocolate hazelnut!

Wahoo’s Fish Tacos: This self-described, “eclectic Mexican/Brazilian/Asian” eatery with a “Hawaiian north-shore vibe,” has the casual surfer culture down to a tee.

Wahoo's Fish Tacos, Laguna Beach, California

[Great place for a quick bite on North Coast Highway]

Cultural Triple Threat: These sizeable annual summer events: Festival of the Arts, Pageants of the Masters, Art-a-fair & Sawdust Art Festivals showcase works of art by local and international artists.

Salt Creek Beach Park: Located just south of Laguna Beach in Dana Point, this is a popular surfing spot due to its offshore reef. Swimming, bodysurfing, boogie boarding and tidal pool exploration are a big draw. Bring a bike and take a ride on the path that leads up and around scenic Monarch Beach Recreational Area.

Dana Point Harbor Pier: Spend an evening exploring the boutiques, seafood restaurants, and the panoramic water views. Or, you might charter a sport fishing boat or better yet, take a whale watching tour.

Ocean Institute: Also on the pier in Dana Point and open to the public on weekends, this is a unique educational experience with hands-on marine science, environment, and maritime history programs.

Mastro’s Ocean Club: Just 20 minutes north in Newport Beach, this excellent seafood restaurant has gorgeous décor, top-notch service, and the ultimate dessert—signature, warm butter cake.

Pelican Grill: For a special occasion, book a table on the ocean-view terrace of the restaurant at Newport’s Pelican Hill Resort and enjoy delicious Napa-inspired cuisine.

Pelican Grill, Pelican Hill Resort, Newport Beach, California

[Superb sunset views from the veranda at the Pelican Grill]

Raya: Located in the Ritz Carlton Laguna Nigel and perched a staggering 150 feet above sea level, it features dramatic ocean views and “Pan-Latin Coastal Cuisine.” Or, come for the hearty American breakfast and watch the early-morning surfers catch the waves and the seagulls fly below you.

Balboa Island: Looking for a quick day trip? Cross the bridge from Pacific Coast highway in Newport Beach or take the car ferry to this lovely little place. Make sure to stop at Dad’s Original for a homemade, fresh, frozen banana – pick your own dips and toppings.

Las Brisas: This indoor/outdoor Mexican restaurant has unmatched views over the Laguna Beach coastline. Grab a seat on the patio (no reservations allowed) and order the mouth-watering fresh guacamole made with Hass avocado, cilantro and serrano chile, garnished with red onion, tomatoes and cotja cheese — and wash it down with a margarita.

Heisler Park: A walk along the cliffs amongst sculptures and grassy knolls offers breathtaking views of the waves and coves below. Climb down the stairways or ramps to explore the sea life in the tide pools and gaze out to the horizon to catch a glimpse of seals and pelicans passing by. The gazebo near Las Brisas makes an excellent photo opportunity, especially at sunset!

LEGOLAND: For a longer day trip, head about one hour south to Carlsbad and enjoy this tribute to the famous, colorful Danish construction toy. There are plenty of rides and attractions including a waterpark and aquarium for kids (and adults) of all ages. LEGO enthusiasts, check out my recent post, “Art of the Brick.”

Ritz Carlton Laguna Nigel: Perched high on a 150-foot ocean front bluff, this Mediterranean-style hotel offers stunning views of the Pacific and all the amenities for a stress free vacation: shuttle service to Salt Creek Beach, pools, spa, restaurants, kids club, and easy access to the Monarch Beach Golf course.

Dad's Original Frozen Banana, Balboa Island, California

[Balboa Island Dad’s Original frozen bananas do not disappoint]

[Our first visit to LEGOLAND brings back great memories]

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER of unique family traveler, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog (or scroll ALL the way to the bottom), and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder). Thank you!

March 30, 2014 by Mollie Dwortzan Mandell

Sevastopol: Crimea’s Shifting Seaport

Who knew that a summer vacation could turn into a such a valuable lesson in Eastern European politics, history, and geography for my boys? Our recent cruise to the Black Sea included stops in Greece, Turkey (covered in my recent post “Where East Meets West”), Russia (“Sochi: Sub-tropical Olympic City”), and Ukraine. Thanks to this unique family trip, my kids have a deeper understanding of the ever-changing current events unfolding in this part of the world. How fortunate to have experienced Crimea during peaceful times.

Our Regent ship’s itinerary included a stop in Sevastopol, the coastal, Black Sea city in the southwestern part of the Crimean Peninsula; its subtropical climate has made it a popular seaside resort destination. Crimea extends out into the Black Sea—it’s basically an island, except for the narrow strip of land that connects it to the Ukrainian mainland in the north; (it’s eastern shore is separated from mainland Russia by just a narrow strait of water.) During its complex 2,000-year history, this territory has changed hands numerous times – Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Russians have all called it their home. In 1991, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, it became a Republic of the newly independent Ukraine, and home to the Russian Black Sea fleet. Since then, the city’s status has remained calm until recent events—Russia’s annexation.

Artillery Bay, Sevastopol, Crimea, Crimean Peninsula

SEVASTOPOL’S APPEALING ARTILLERY BAY

On an already warm, cerulean-sky morning, we embarked on a walking tour of Sevastopol’s sun-drenched, bustling port area. It was surprising to see the Mediterranean-style architecture, palm tree-lined boulevards, and colorful sailboats floating through the harbor area. The city’s seaside promenade was filled with souvenir shops and terrace-fronted restaurants with menus written in Cyrillic script—not surprising since the majority of the population is Russian. Rich with thousands of years of history, our local guide pointed out that Sevastopol is a living museum—1,800 monuments dot the city.

Monument to Scuttled ships, Sevastopol, Crimean, Crimean Peninsula

The “Monument to Scuttled Ships”–Russian ships, flooded to form a line of defense from the Allies during the 1854 Siege of Sevastopol

The next stop was Chersonesus, the archeological remains of the ancient Greek colony dating from the 5th century BC, nicknamed the “Ukrainian Pompeii” or the “Russian Troy.” Wandering amongst Greek theatres, Roman temples and columns, we watched the locals as they took advantage of the seaside location, diving into the dark blue waters from the narrow strip of beach that abutted the ruins.

Chersonesus, Sevastopol, Crimea, Crimean Peninsula

In Greek, Chersonesus means “peninsula,” an appropriate name for this ancient seaside colony

Nearby is the recently restored Byzantine-style St. Vladimir Cathedral, built in the 19th Century; it’s the cradle of Russian Orthodox Christianity. Covering our arms and legs in respect before entering, we studied the dramatic marble-clad interior punctuated by bold frescoes, mosaic tile-inlaid floors, and vibrant stained glass windows, committing it all to memory since interior photography was forbidden. Outside, we took a break from the sun’s heat, pooling our Ukrainian hryvnia to buy soda bottles and freshly baked pampushki (garlicky rolls) from a nearby vendor.

St. Vladimir Cathedral, Sevastopol, Crimea, Crimean Peninsula

St. Vladimir Cathedral commemorates the baptism of Prince Vladimir the Great of Kiev

A must-see is the Panorama Museum, which memoralizes the defense of the city during the 1853-1856 Crimean War. Opened in 1905 on the 50th Anniversary of the defense of Sevastopol, the cylindrical building houses the impressive 377-foot long, 46-foot high circular canvas of the famous battle as depicted by artist Franz Roubaud. An 80-step climb to the top of the display reveals the massive work of art, an impressively accurate portrayal, which is best viewed by walking around the elevated observation platform in the center of the hall.

Outside the museum, the boys stopped in the parking lot to admire a vendor’s display of Soviet-era memorabilia artfully arranged on the hood and roof of his beat up, Trabant. As they picked out brass military pins and wool caps, the gentleman patiently explained the unit each item hailed from—Air Force, Army, Navy—with some vintage Aeroflot wings and KGB insignias thrown into the mix.

Trabant, Sevastopol, Crimea, Crimean Peninsula

A “vintage” Trabant–a popular Eastern European car–makes an appropriate backdrop for a display of Soviet-era memorabilia

Now, at home as we turn on CNN, read the Times, and watch as another chapter of Crimean history is written, we feel very fortunate to have visited the Crimean Peninsula and learn about its multi-faceted heritage and culture. We only hope that recent events are settled peacefully, not only for the residents, but also for those who have not yet had the opportunity to experience and appreciate first hand its rich and unique history.

Ready to plan a unique trip for you or your family? Contact me at mollie@herrickstravel.com. For more information on my trip planning services, please click here.

EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS: to view my previous posts, and my ENTIRE blog, please click here: uniquefamilytraveler.com. To become a SUBSCRIBER of unique family traveler, please enter your email address in the box on the upper right hand side of the blog (or scroll ALL the way to the bottom), and then make sure to respond to the follow-up email (check spam folder). Thank you!

	Booking Agent on Why You Should use a Travel Ag…
	Suen Terry on Top Thailand Resort – Anantara…
	Mollie Dwortzan Mand… on Namibia’s Etosha Nationa…
	Dofri Reykjavik erup… on Namibia’s Etosha Nationa…
	Mollie Dwortzan Mand… on Namibia’s Etosha Nationa…

unique family traveler

Travel Blog written by Mollie Mandell, Travel Agent @ Herricks Travel, a full-service travel agency

Year: 2014

Hawaii’s Magnificent Maui

Weekend in Waikiki, Oahu

Oahu: Hawaii’s Happening Island

London: 22 Top Shops

London: 18 Favorite Places to Eat

Grand Cayman’s Superb Seven-Mile Beach

Costa Rica: Perfectly Positioned for Adventure

Hampshire: An Edu-vacation in England’s countryside

Laguna Beach: California’s Pacific Pearl

Sevastopol: Crimea’s Shifting Seaport

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: