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Pumped For Pumpkins


Zombie golf, an action packed parade, huge pumpkins and Veronica enters a pie eating contest! See our full adventure here! >>

The biggest pumpkin at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest weighed in at 280 pounds!With All Hallow’s Eve just around the corner, we searched for the most sincere pumpkin patch we could find for a gourd old celebration.

We couldn’t have done better for pumpkin pageantry than Sycamore Illinois, and the Annual Sycamore Pumpkin Festival. (The 2023 pumpkin fest is October 25 – 29.)

We kicked off the weekend down on the courthouse lawn with the Lions Club Giant Pumpkin Weigh-in, and got to gawk at an 280 pounder. Not quite up to the new world record, set this year, of 2,032 pounds, but enormously impressive nevertheless.

It takes four men to hoist the giant pumpkins onto the scale at the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival in Illinois!
It takes four men to hoist the giant pumpkins onto the scale!

The Sycamore, Illinois Courthouse

Equally impressive were the thousands of Jack-o’-lanterns on display in front of the courthouse, in fact, this is how it all got started.

Wally Thurow, Sycamore’s “Mr. Pumpkin,” began the tradition back in 1956 when he decorated a few pumpkins and set them out in his yard. The town took to it, the numbers grew, then in 1962 the Lions Club helped out and the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival became official.

Pumpkins decorated by elementary school kids at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest in Illinois
So many pumpkins! The above entries are all made by elementary school kids!

Here are some of our favorite entries!

Funny witch pumpkin at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest in Illinois

M&M Pumpkins at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest in Illinois

Amazing carved pumpkins at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest in Illinois

Decorated pumpkins at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest in Illinois

Zombie Miniature Golf at the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival in Illinois

Of course the festival also happens to coincide with Halloween, no coincidence no doubt, and that means ghosts, goblins, witches, and even some zombies.

Zombies? Yes, zombies, and playing miniature golf no less. This we had to see, so we were off to the library for a good fright, and to help raise some funds. We managed to escape with our whole brains, but no holes-in-one.

Scary pumpkin carving at the Sycamore Illinois Pumpkin Fest

There’s more reason to celebrate pumpkins in these parts than just fun and games.

Eighty percent of all the pumpkins produced commercially in the U. S. are produced in North Central Illinois.

By far the majority of those get processed into canned pumpkin, and we know what that’s good for… pie!

Kids pie eating contest at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest - SO cute!

Speaking of pie, what’s a festival without some good old-fashioned competitive eatin’? So it was back to The Courthouse for the Kiwanis Pie Eating Contest.

After watching kids, some no more than three years old, speed eat giant slabs of pie Veronica was ready to give it a try in the adult category. Give her an A for effort, but she was not even in the same league as some of the veteran competitors.

WATCH: Ginormous pumpkins, zombie attacks and Veronica’s heroic pie eating attempt!

The Elmwood Cemetery Gate in Sycamore, Illinois

Sunset at Elmwood Cemetery in Sycamore, Illinois

With dusk falling it was time to scare ourselves silly so we headed over to Elmwood Cemetery for some spooky storytelling.

We entered through historic gates (dated 1865, they are officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places)  that looked straight out of a Vincent Price movie.

Scary stories in the cemetery at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest, Illinois

Local residents took turns spinning yarns to tingle the spine and, as if on cue, a bat flew through the group during the second tale. When the screams subsided the stories continued.

Scary stories in the cemetery at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest, Illinois

A boy ride a unicycle in the Pumpkin Fest parade in Sycamore, Illinois

Sunday brought the grand finale of the festivities, the big Pumpkin Festival Parade. We were amazed at the crowd that gathers in little Sycamore – tailgating, dressed in costume and patronizing the non-profit-only food vendors dotting the route.

This is the big fundraiser for many of these do-gooders in the community and we were happy to part with a few dollars for some pre-parade snackage.

Dancers in the Pumpkin Fest Parade in Sycamore, Illinois

People with pumpkins on their heads at the Sycamore Pumpkin Fest in Illinois

Floats, bands, clubs, politicians and businesses from Sycamore and the neighboring area were all represented in the parade – marching, tumbling, riding and waving their hearts out.

The Northern Illinois University Marching Band in the Pumpkin Fest Parade, Sycamore, Illinois

A lion marches in the Pumpkin Fest Parade in Sycamore, Illinois

This is small-town America at her finest. With a bit of a scary edge. It is Halloween after all.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Delve Deeper:

See all of our adventures in Illinois

We LOVE festivals! See more GypsyNester festival coverage
Go to the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Website

Traveling To Thailand With Kids? Here’s How To Keep Them Entertained

Traveling to Thailand with kids is a journey filled with wonder, learning, and unforgettable experiences. There’s no shortage of activities to keep the younger members of your family entertained… CONTINUE READING >> 

Thailand, also known as the “Land of Smiles”, has been a coveted travel destination for decades. With its colorful culture, tantalizing cuisines, and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder travelers of all ages are drawn to its allure. Traveling with kids, however, comes with its unique set of challenges. But don’t panic just yet! 

If Thailand is on your family’s bucket list, here are some ways to ensure your little ones remain entertained and captivated throughout the trip.

Book A Comprehensive Tour

Taking a trip can be overwhelming, especially with kids in tow. Why not opt for a guided tour? Companies like Exoticca offer Thailand trips that are perfect for a family vacation. With their expertly curated experiences, you’re ensured to tick off all the must-sees from your bucket list without the hassle of planning each intricate detail yourself.

Experience The Magic Of Thailand’s Beaches

Thailand’s beaches are the stuff of legends. The pristine white sands of Phuket’s beaches like Patong and Kata are perfect for building sandcastles, while the crystal-clear waters provide a wonderful opportunity for children to snorkel and marvel at the vibrant marine life. 

Kayaking in the tranquil lagoons, enjoying a family picnic by the shore, or simply lounging and watching the sunset, the beaches are sure to keep your kids (and yourself) engrossed.

Discover Ancient Temples

Introduce your kids to the grandeur of Thai temples. Bangkok’s Wat Pho, home to the famous reclining Buddha, or the intricate details of Wat Arun, can be a fascinating experience for children. It not only exposes them to Thai culture and history but also sparks their imagination. 

Remember to dress appropriately, covering shoulders and knees, when visiting these sacred sites.

Explore The Bustling Streets Of Bangkok

The capital city is a sensory delight. From riding in a tuk-tuk to tasting the array of street food, there’s never a dull moment. Let your kids interact with friendly locals, shop for unique souvenirs in markets like Chatuchak, or even take a boat ride in the Chao Phraya River. 

The city’s blend of modern and traditional can be an educational and entertaining experience.

Venture Into The Northern Charm Of Chiang Mai

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is the place to be. The cooler climate and lush landscapes offer activities like elephant sanctuaries where children can learn about these majestic creatures. The Night Bazaar is a great place to shop, eat, and watch traditional Thai dance performances. 

Additionally, a visit to the Doi Suthep Temple, perched high on a mountain, can offer panoramic views of the entire city.

Engage In Interactive Learning

Thailand is filled with interactive experiences that can both entertain and educate your children. Consider visiting places like the Bangkok Sea Life Ocean World or the Phuket Trickeye Museum. They are not only fun but also provide learning opportunities in an engaging way.

Indulge In Thai Cuisine

Thai food is flavorful, diverse, and can be a treat for the taste buds. Introduce your children to dishes like Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, or the milder Massaman Curry. 

Many restaurants offer cooking classes where your family can learn to make classic Thai dishes – a perfect blend of fun and flavor!

Conclusion

Traveling to Thailand with kids is a journey filled with wonder, learning, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re lounging on the beaches of Phuket, exploring ancient temples in Bangkok, or immersing in the culture of Chiang Mai, there’s no shortage of activities to keep the younger members of your family entertained. 

Remember to balance relaxation with adventure, and you’re all set for an incredible Thai vacation! Safe travels and Sawasdee ka!

What Do You Want on Your Tombstone?

We hitched our wagon in Tombstone, Arizona and had a rip-roaring time! A reenactment of the Gunfight at OK Corral, a historama narrated by Vincent Price (sounds like the “Thriller” Video!), Boothill Cemetery (No Les, No More ) and a night of music and authentic frontier gibberish at Big Nose Kate’s Saloon… CONTINUE READING >>

Cowboys on street in Tombstone

Back in 1877, when a soldier told prospector Ed Schieffelin the only rock he was likely to find in the rugged, bone-dry hills of southeast Arizona was his tombstone, little did he know he was naming one of the most famous towns in the chronicles of Western lore.

Actually Ed found silver, a bunch of it, and in a nod to irony and the military man, he named his claim Tombstone. Soon the boomtown that grew up around the mines took the same name and the Wild West was in full swing.

Frontier Woman on cell phone

We made our way to this remote corner of Arizona for a firsthand look at whether the west is still wild in these parts.

As soon as we hit town we heard gunfire. Sounds pretty wild. Scurrying a block over to the old main drag, Allen Street, we found some ornery looking hombres toting shooting irons.

More shots, and by the time the dust cleared there were several bodies lying in the middle of the road. Just like the movies.

Also just like the movies was the fact that they all got up and walked away a few minutes later. Ah yes, welcome to Tombstone, “The Town too Tough to Die,” with staged gunfight actors that are also too tough to die.

Wow, in town less than ten minutes and we’ve already seen a shootout! And this one wasn’t even at the OK Corral.

Funny Sign in Tombstone

The old storefronts along Allen Street look like a movie set. Many are authentic, in fact the area was designated a National Historic Landmark District back in 1961 because it was so well preserved.

Since then tourist traps have endangered that designation by putting up new additions on historic buildings, electric signs as well as other anachronistic materials, and even fake dates on modern structures. Hmm, sniffing out the real history may take a little wily prospecting.

With nearly half a million tourists a year visiting, we’ll need to dig through motherloads of the truly cheesy-touristy to find that vein of historical ore.

The Birdcage Theater in Tombstone

In 1882, the Bird Cage Theater was proclaimed “The Wildest, Wickedest night spot between Basin Street and the Barbary Coast” by the New York Times, this place has preserved the “real” old west with a minimum of schmaltz.

Preserved is the right term too, since from the time the doors closed in 1889 until 1934 it remained untouched, never opened.

Today, as a museum, it stands basically the same. The famous namesake cages, where the girls of the night did their business, still hang above the bar / casino floor.

In the basement, the site of the world’s longest running card game is the main attraction. Legend has it that the game never stopped for almost eight and a half years.

Throughout the building bullet holes pock the walls and ceilings, one hundred and forty by last count. This was a rough joint where twenty-six rowdies met their make, running at a rate of three or four deaths a year for the short time the theater was open. No wonder they claim it’s haunted.

The Tombstone Epitaph Newspaper

No wild west town could have made a name for itself without the help of a newspaper to immortalize and sensationalize the events of the day.

Tombstone had, and still has, The Epitaph. Today the paper’s office serves more as a museum than a newsroom, but there still is an edition of the Epitaph printed once a month.

Not surprisingly, it is the only known newspaper to ever have that name. As the original editor, John Clum stated, “No Tombstone is complete without its Epitaph.”

Gunslinger in Tombstone

Mr. Clum had quite the adventurous life. He went west from New York with the Army Signal Corps, then became an Indian agent in Arizona, where he knew Geronimo.

Later, in Tombstone, he founded The Epitaph and became mayor. It was in Tombstone where he met and became friends with Wyatt Earp.

The two men renewed their friendship years later in Alaska, when Clum was appointed Postal Inspector for the new northern territory. Earp was running a saloon in Nome, in keeping with his attachment to the wildest frontier towns he could find.

Speaking of one Wyatt Earp, it was about time for the daily reenactment of the Gunfight at the OK Corral. We moseyed on over to the famous site, bought our tickets and had a few minutes to survey the displays before the shooting started.

It was here that we stumbled upon the best attraction ever in the history of the Wild West, Tombstone’s Historama. We entered the theater with no idea what to expect.

But then a technological marvel appeared before our eyes. Scenes from Tombstone’s early days, depicted with toy cowboys, indians, miners, model houses, trees, tee pees, and little light bulb campfires on a paper mache mountain were magically rotating on the stage.

Periodically a screen would drop down for some old western movie clips while the mountain turned to the next view.

It is hard to even imagine how this could get any better, but the piece d’resistance was the fact that the whole thing was narrated by Vincent Price — a real “thriller” for us. The true beauty of the Historama is that not a thing about it has changed since it was created back in 1964.

We almost feel like we should leave Tombstone, have the Historama be our last impression, but we came to see a gunfight and a gunfight we shall see.

Gunfight at the OK Corral

The reenactment of the gunfight at OK Corral takes place in a walled off area purported to be the location of the actual event.

Although we’re pretty sure there weren’t bleachers here back on October 26, 1881. After a few skits to warm up the crowd, we get to the main attraction.

The background story is acted out briefly, explaining the ongoing feud between the Earp brothers, Wyatt, Virgil and Morgan, along with their buddy Doc Holliday and some local “Cowboys,” the Clanton brothers, Ike and Billy, along with Frank and Tom McLaury.

Now in these parts back then, when cowboy was capitalized in the paper, it was often synonymous with rustler, so as marshal, Virgil Earp had been after these boys for a while. When they rode into town, he deputized his brothers and Doc — figuring a fight was a brewing. After they refused check their weapons according to town law, the proverbial excrement hit the fan.

Unlike the long, drawn out affairs in the movies, there was no hiding behind wagons or falling off of buildings. It was all over in less than thirty seconds, with Billy Clanton, and Frank and Tom McLaury lying dead while everyone else, except Wyatt, was wounded.

The fact that Earp was unharmed in the havoc probably contributed more to his legendary status than any other event in his life.

Big Nosed Kate's

With the gunfight behind us, we had a hankering for a libation to calm our nerves. A visit to Big Nose Kate’s Saloon was in order.

Named for Doc Holliday’s girlfriend, who is also believed to have been Tombstone’s first lady of the evening, this is the spot for some old west fun.

Drinking, dancing, saloon girls, music and the movie Tombstone playing on a never ending loop on TVs throughout the room. Just in case anybody might forget where they were for a minute.

For all its reputation as the wildest town west of The Pecos, Tombstone is downright tame after dark nowadays. After a stint at Kate’s, we wandered across the empty, windswept Allen Street to The Chrystal Palace, which looked to be the only other open establishment in town.

Big Nosed Kate's Saloon

Big Nose Kate’s bills themselves as “The Best Cowboy Bar in The West” and The Chrystal Palace claims to be “The Most Famous Saloon in the West.”

While both are plum western, we have to give the nod to The Palace, since we were treated by one of their local patrons to some of the finest, completely unintelligible, authentic frontier gibberish ever spewed forth since Gabby Hayes graced the silver screen.

In fact many of the townsfolk seem to get into character and stay that way. We saw tons of them just hanging out on the street or washing down the trail dust in a favorite watering hole.

Lester Moore No More No Less

On our way out of town the next morning, we had to make one last stop, Boot Hill. Many an old west town had its own Boot Hill cemetery for those who “died with their boots on,” but this is perhaps the most famous.

There is some attempt at preserving a bit of reverence for the deceased, but the touristy overtones prevail. Souvenirs with some of the cute epitaphs from the graveyard are on sale along with all kinds of other Tombstone swag.

Somehow tee shirts with “Here lies Lester Moore. Four slugs From a forty-four. No Les No More” don’t inspire the kind of reverence one might hope for in a final resting place. But then whoever said that Tombstone was restful back then.

Boothill Cemetery Tombstone Arizone

The Boot Hill Visitors Guide details the demise of most of the inhabitants, and there certainly seems to be more than the average share of murder and mayhem.

Shootings, stabbings, hangings, brawls, poisonings, falling down mine shafts, scalpings — not to mention the usual diseases and pestilence.

It was enough to make a body want to get out of Dodge, or Tombstone, as the case may be.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

The Avocado Festival. Peace, Love, and Guacamole!

We love a festival. We really love a festival dedicated to food. So we sniffed around and found the Woodstock of avocados where 3 Days of Peace, Love, and Guacamole took over Carpinteria, California… CONTINUE READING >> 

We love a festival.

We really love a festival dedicated to food.

Lucky for us the 2023 California Avocado Festival is coming right up October 7th through the 9th.

So while we get ready, let’s take a look back at our visit there a few years ago.

Throughout our travels we have learned that October is the king of the calendar when it comes to these feasting fiestas. So we sniffed around and found the Woodstock of avocados where 3 Days of Peace, Love, and Guacamole took over Carpinteria, California.

Harvest time has called for a celebration since humans first started planting seeds millennia ago, and while avocados may not have been one of those crops way back when, they certainly are now. This town has taken to seriously celebrating that change.

As the official fruit of the State, the alligator pear, butter fruit, or cheese pear as it is known in various far-flung corners of the globe, takes center stage in the Avocado Exposition tent at the entrance to the grounds, making this the obvious place to begin.

Veronica was feeling the love, so she had a quick kiss for the mascot before we stepped inside to learn almost all anyone could ever want to know about the awesome avocado.

They were introduced to California from Mexico about one hundred and fifty years ago and by the early nineteen hundreds had become hugely popular.

In fact, by 1935 Californians were consuming more than two pounds per person and even though Florida and Hawai’i began growing them earlier, California now produces about 90% of the nation’s crop.

The tent also gave us a chance to get our hands on a giant specimen. Each year the festival hosts the Largest Avocado Contest, and while we didn’t get to hold the four and a half pound winner, that  big boy gets auctioned off at the end of the competition, a three plus pounder weighing in as runner up was impressive enough.

Armed with a new arsenal of avocado information, it was time to hit the midway to taste the star of the show. The headliner appeared in all kinds of interesting culinary inventions.

It’s not every day that we get to see the world’s largest anything, so first stop was the planet’s biggest vat of… holy guacamole that’s one big tub of dip!

Unfortunately, not quite large enough, since by the time we got there it was almost empty.

No problem, we were happy to indulge in something a little more substantial anyway, and the “World Famous Tri-tip & Avocado Sandwiches” certainly looked to fill the bill.

Even though the avocado wasn’t the center piece of the dish, this was one groovy grinder.

Delectable as it was, what is a festival if not a chance to let our hair down and try something we may never see again? So we decided to let our freak flag fly and go for some avocado ice cream.

Pleasantly surprising might be the best way to describe it. The creamy consistency of the avocado worked very much in its favor and the end result was a refreshment that hit the spot on a warm autumn afternoon.

Several other delicacies were on hand, deep fried avocado, avocado brownies, and even an avocado chocolate truffle, but we simply couldn’t try them all.

Our frozen treat had us thinking beach, and Carpinteria has a gorgeous one, so we walked a few blocks from the festival for a look.

On our way back, we stopped off near the shore at the Island Brewing Company. The award-winning craft beer microbrewery caught our attention with a poster proclaiming Avocado Honey Ale.

No way we could pass that up and, like the ice cream, the smooth flavor of the avocado blended splendidly with the bee and brew combination.

In keeping with the festival’s Woodstock-esque theme, music plays a huge part in the festivities.  In fact the fest bill itself as “one of the largest FREE festivals in California with over 75 music acts on FOUR stages. “

As with the food, we couldn’t catch them all but our, and from what we could tell the crowd’s, favorite was the Beatles tribute band Sgt. Pepper.

These mop-top mimics didn’t try to copy the look or imitate the personalities of the fab four, but they were right on with the music.

They had everybody singing along with the classic songs and happily reveling in the rock, or should we say guac-n-roll.

Yes, we should.

Long live Guac-n-Roll!

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Take a Trip to Lake Como from Milan

Lake Como has been called the most beautiful lake in the world, and even though we have certainly not seen all of the lakes on Earth, we are inclined to agree…
CONTINUE READING >> 

Milan is one of our favorite cities. It is very cosmopolitan and absolutely gorgeous with so many fantastic attractions like Da Vinci’s The Last Supper and the amazing cathedral Duomo di Milano.

But it is also a very big city, second only to Rome in Italy, so sometimes we like to get away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis and enjoy some of the spectacular scenery of Northern Italy. That’s why we were thrilled to find an impressive variety of options for trips to Lake Como from Milan.

The lake has often been called the most beautiful lake in the world, and even though we have certainly not seen all of the lakes on Earth, we are inclined to agree. And it is close enough to Milan to make for a perfect day trip. There are plenty of guided tours that can help insure that all of the highlights are included even in only one day.

The captivating landscape of Lake Como comes from the way glaciers carved out the lake from the surrounding Alps. This led to a long, narrow inverted Y shape that creates scenes reminiscent of the fjords in Scandinavia. It makes sense, because they were formed in a very similar way.

Majestic mountains rise right up from the shore and are reflected in the crystal clear water, so no wonder the area has drawn the attention of the world’s rich and famous for over two thousand years. Many of them built the earliest of the numerous extravagant villas that have dotted the shoreline ever since.

Yes, these date way back to the Roman times, when Pliny the Younger first built the resorts Comedia and Tragedia. Before that Virgil, the legendary Latin poet, visited the town of Bellagio and wrote about the lake in his second book of the Georgics.

Over the many, many years since then dozens more of have come and gone along the lake, and it is still a very popular getaway destination for notables such as George Clooney, Madonna, Sylvester Stallone, Richard Branson, and Lionel Messi.

These day trip tours make a scenic drive along the lake shore, but also allow ample time to explore some of the towns and villages along the way. Perhaps the most picturesque of these is Bellagio, that we mentioned before.

This quaint town of a few thousand folks is often called the “Pearl of Lake Como” because of the phenomenal views spreading out in three directions from the city’s perch on the center tip of the “Y” that the shape of the lake forms. The town also features several stunning villas along the water, which add to the charm.

Another favorite stop is the dazzling village of Varenna. While there, a visit to Villa Monastero is a must. Way back when this was the site of a convent, but then, a little over five hundred years ago, it was converted to a private villa.

In 1936 it became a museum and now serves as an international conference center. But we are inclined to think that the incredible botanical garden, and its rare plant species, stretching out for about a mile along the lake is the main attraction for nature lovers and sightseers.

Many of the tours also include a jaunt over the border for a stop in the town of Lugano. Although it sits upon the shore of a different lake, and in a different country, Lugano is culturally very Italian. The language, cuisine, and culture are all very connected to Italy, but everything else about it is very much a part of Switzerland. We think it is a perfect companion for a visit to Lake Como.

After this exhilarating adventure into the Alps we can bet that the sophisticated urban vibe of metropolitan Milan will make for an exciting return to the city.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

An Unforgettable Excursion to Oxford and Cambridge

The twin jewels of British academia, Oxford and Cambridge, beckon with a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and unparalleled intellectual legacy…
CONTINUE READING >> 

The twin jewels of British academia, Oxford and Cambridge, beckon with a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and unparalleled intellectual legacy. Wandering through their ancient cobbled streets, one is transported to a world where knowledge and heritage intertwine in timeless elegance.

Majestic spires, iconic libraries, and verdant courtyards resonate with tales of pioneering discoveries and illustrious alumni. Yet, beyond the hallowed halls, both cities offer serene riverside experiences, bustling marketplaces, and a vibrant cultural tapestry.

Embarking on this excursion is not just about visiting two cities; it’s about immersing oneself in centuries of academic excellence and absorbing the timeless spirit of discovery and enlightenment.

Types of Excursions Tailored to Every Traveller

Oxford and Cambridge, with their rich tapestries of history, culture, and academic prowess, beckon travellers from all corners of the world. To cater to the diverse interests and time constraints of visitors, an extensive selection of excursions has been thoughtfully curated.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or someone keen to experience the college life ambiance, both cities have something tailored for you:

Historic Walkabouts

Delve deep into the annals of history with guided tours that recount tales of illustrious alumni, ancient traditions, and architectural marvels. Walk the cobbled streets and feel the weight of centuries pass with each step.

Architectural Wonders Tour

For those with an eye for design, tours focused on the stunning architectural feats of both cities are a treat. From the towering spires to the intricate stonework of colleges, marvel at the craftsmanship of bygone eras.

The Scholar’s Route

Experience a day in the life of a student. Attend lectures, explore the vast libraries, and perhaps even partake in a lively debate at one of the student pubs. This excursion provides an authentic taste of university life.

Riverside Retreats

The serene rivers of both Oxford and Cambridge offer a unique vantage point. Opt for a calming punt tour or rowing excursion. Glide beneath historic bridges and past verdant banks, capturing the essence of these cities from their tranquil waters.

Customizable Adventures

For those who prefer a personalized touch, custom tours can be arranged. Combine elements from different excursions or focus on niche interests, ensuring your journey is uniquely tailored to your preferences.

Must-visit Spots From Collegiate Glory to Hidden Gems

Oxford Highlights

    • Radcliffe Camera: An iconic building that’s a delight to both bibliophiles and photographers.
    • Bodleian Library: One of the oldest libraries in Europe, holding a mesmerizing collection.
    • Oxford Castle & Prison: Dive into the city’s darker history.

Cambridge Highlights

    • King’s College Chapel: A testament to English Gothic architecture.
    • Fitzwilliam Museum: Art and antiques from across the globe.
    • Botanic Garden: A serene escape from the academic hustle.

Activities to Immerse Yourself in the Vibe

Attend a Lecture or Seminar: Oxford and Cambridge often have guest lectures open to the public. Check the universities’ calendars for schedules.

Dine in a Historic Pub: Experience traditional British cuisine in establishments where famous alumni once dined.

Tip: The Turf Tavern in Oxford has seen the likes of Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking.

Practical Tips for a Flawless Excursion

When embarking on an enlightening journey to places as historically rich and culturally profound as Oxford and Cambridge, it’s crucial to ensure that the trip goes smoothly. With that in mind, here are some practical tips to optimize your excursion experience.

Travelling Efficiently

Travel Light: The ancient streets and college corridors can sometimes be narrow. Carrying only essentials will make your mobility much easier.

Public Transport: Both cities have efficient bus networks. Considering a day pass can save both time and money.

Etiquette and Respect

Dress Appropriately: While there isn’t a strict dress code, modest attire is appreciated, especially when visiting historic and academic institutions.

Stay Quiet: Some areas, particularly libraries and study areas, require silence. Respect the students’ space and the academic atmosphere.

Staying Connected

Local SIM Cards: For international travellers, local SIM cards can be a cost-effective way to stay connected.

Offline Maps: Download maps for offline use. This can be a lifesaver in areas with limited connectivity.

Dining and Refreshments

Hydrate: With all the walking, remember to keep a refillable water bottle handy.

Local Delicacies: Don’t miss out on traditional British snacks. From scones in quaint tea rooms to pies in historic pubs, indulge in the local culinary scene.

Money Matters

Cash & Card: While most places accept cards, having some cash can be handy for smaller establishments or tipping.

Student Discounts: If you’re a student, keep your ID handy. Many attractions offer discounted entry fees.

Stay Informed

Local News: Check local news outlets for any events or possible disruptions. This ensures you’re always one step ahead.

Weather Forecast: The British weather can be unpredictable. A quick check can help you dress accordingly and plan your day.

Best Places to Dine

In the historic heartlands of Oxford and Cambridge, gastronomic delights await as eagerly as their architectural marvels and academic legacies.

Amidst the backdrop of centuries-old colleges and picturesque riverbanks, both cities boast a culinary scene that’s as diverse as it is delicious. From traditional British fare in timber-framed taverns to contemporary global cuisine in chic bistros, there’s a plate for every palate.

The vibrant markets offer fresh, local produce for those seeking an authentic taste of the region. Whether you fancy a hearty pie after a day of exploration or a delicate pastry with your afternoon tea, these cities promise a dining experience that’s as memorable as the sights themselves.

Exclusive Deals to Enhance Your Journey

While you’re planning this trip, don’t forget to check out the Black Friday deals. For accommodations and more, you might find unbeatable offers at barcelo.com/en-gb/offers/black-friday/ Such promotions can make your excursion more affordable and luxurious.

As the sun sets over the spires of Oxford and Cambridge, we come to the end of our enlightening voyage through these bastions of knowledge and culture. The fusion of history, academia, architectural wonders, and culinary delights ensures that these cities stand tall as must-visit destinations.

As you reflect on your journey, remember that the true essence of Oxford and Cambridge lies not just in their majestic buildings or delicious dishes, but in the spirit of discovery and learning they inspire. Until your next visit, may the echoes of their rich legacy continue to resonate in your heart.

Time to Plan for those Fall Festival Favorites

As autumn rolls around it is time to roll out the barrels… of fun! There are few functions we find more fantastic than a fabulous fall festival…

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The view from the Kaatskill Flyer chairlift.

As the Autumn rolls around it is time to roll out the barrels… of fun! There are few functions we find more fantastic than a fabulous fall festival.

Over the years we have frequently found ourselves in the midst of many of these autumnal classics, usually by accidentally stumbling upon them in our travels.

However we discovered them, here are five of our favorites, plus a perfect bonus celebration… the Pumpkin Fest!

Bean Fest!

Speaking of competitions, the Annual Arkansas Bean Fest and Great Championship Outhouse Races could be the best of the bunch. You might say it’s a gas!

The festivities, as with every gathering in Mountain View, begin with live bluegrass and folk music.  No wonder Mountain View is known as “The Folk Music Capital of The World.”

Then the events kick off with the Beanie Weenie Dog Show while the cooks set up their giant pots for the main event. Each cauldron is filled with water and fifty pounds of dry pinto beans to soak, then at the crack of dawn Saturday morning fires are lit under the pots and the cooking commences.

After the beans are served it’s off to the races. These aren’t your average outhouses, oh no, these are high performance porta-potties.

This year (2023) the 41st Annual Bean Fest & Championship Outhouse Race takes place on October 27th and 28th.

Salmon Fest

For a different kettle of fish, we found a fascinating annual phenomenon In the Seattle suburb of Issaquah. Each autumn thousands of salmon fight their way through the town in Issaquah Creek in an unstoppable trek to the hatchery where they were born. This event spawned the beloved Salmon Fest. The 2023 festival is October 7th & 8th.

For over forty years, hundreds of thousands of people have come to celebrate the return of the salmon.  Five stages scattered throughout downtown feature music, while we humans satisfy our urges through feeding frenzies at the food vendors.

The 54th annual Issaquah Salmon Days Festival will be held October 2nd & 3rd, 2021.

Sheep & Wool

Another event that has been going strong for more than four decades is the New York State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck. Each year the Dutchess County Sheep & Wool Growers’ Association throws this baaaa-sh in October.

Folks come from all across the Hudson Valley to witness sheep shearing,  yarn spinning,  and parades of llamas, alpacas, and cashmere goats.

But for us it was the dogs that stole the show. While the canine frisbee demonstrations were impressive, we couldn’t get enough of the border collies doing what they do best, even better than catching plastic discs, herding.  We couldn’t help but think of the movie Babe.

The New York State Sheep & Wool Festival will be October 21st and 22nd this year (2023).

Crab Fest

While crabs might not be the first thing we think of at this time of year, the Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival in Port Angeles had us rethinking that.  On the northern coast of Washington, this is definitely the place to be for any decapod chowing seafood lover. 

We tried our hands at crabbing in the Grab-A-Crab Derby, and were rewarded with the steamed outcome of our catch.  For those who don’t want to fish for their supper there is also “The Famous Crab Feed” where a whole Dungeness Crab is served up with corn, coleslaw, music and beer.

The 2023 Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival will be October 5th through the 8th.

Pumpkins!

Lastly, but certainly not least, for the ultimate October celebration we went to the source, North Central Illinois, and the Annual Sycamore Pumpkin Festival. Eighty percent of those big orange squash come from this area.

We kicked off the merriment down to the courthouse for the Lions Club Giant Pumpkin weigh-in. Here the giants are measured and judged, as are the thousands of Jack-o’-lanterns  that adorn the  lawn.

Later we joined in the Pie Eating Contest and then ghost stories at the cemetery.  The weekend culminates with the big Pumpkin Festival Parade.

The Sycamore Pumpkin Festival will be held October 25-29, 2023.

Oktoberfest

Most likely the first thing that jumps to mind when we mention October and festival is the German tradition of beer-based festivities. The Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest in New York certainly is worthy of the name.

Hunter is a ski resort, so for a fantastic view of the fall foliage we started the day with a ride on the Kaatskill Flyer chairlift. The top of the mountain can get a little chilly this time of year high in the Catskills.

But beyond the scenic setting, the authentic food, music, and dancing had us believing we might be in Bavaria while the keg rolling, krug carrying, and the masskrugstemmen, which means beer-stein holding, contests kept us cracking up while we competed.

The 2023 Octoberfest will be on the 5th.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Your turn: tell us about your favorite Fall Festivals in the comments below.

Things to do in Bordeaux

There is an exciting array of things to see and do in Bordeaux, history, architecture, culture, and of course, wine. Bordeaux has all of these and more…
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As we have traveled around the world we have learned so many amazing things about history, architecture, and cultures. While in France, we discovered that the city of Bordeaux has all of these.

There is an exciting array of things to see and do in Bordeaux, so we suggest beginning a visit with a tour. We used to try exploring on our own most of the time, but now we have come to understand that a good tour is best way to get acquainted with a city when visiting for the first time. With this in mind, we are happy to say that we found Free Walking Tours Bordeaux.

Their tours are a great way to get to know the city with a knowledgeable, friendly and experienced local Guide. And guess what, it’s free. Just tip your guide if you feel like they did a good job, and we know you will. There’s just no better way to see the highlights of the city.

After meeting at the Monument aux Girondins, a soaring tower dedicated to the Girondins as martyrs of liberty, take a stroll through the historic center of Bordeaux and get to know some of its secrets such as its special gastronomy, monuments, and of course, the main attractions. Many of these surround the fabulous Place de la Bourse.

Perhaps the most famous of these, the Miroir d’Eau or Water Mirror, is also one of the newest. This unique reflecting pool is made a layer of about an inch of water spread over dark granite slabs. This creates a giant mirror-like pool covering almost forty thousand square feet. If you’re like us then you will need a frame of reference for that size, it is about an acre, or nearly the size of a football field.

The surrounding plaza has become one of Bordeaux’s most recognizable places and is lined by such great examples of eighteenth century classical French architectural that it was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.

Not far from the square is the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. This theater, which dates back to 1780, is home to the Opéra National de Bordeaux and the Ballet National de Bordeaux.

Now we know that there are many of us who love to see the cathedrals throughout Europe, well it just so happens that there are a couple great ones nearby.

The Église Saint-Pierre, or Church of St. Peter, is a fine example of a Gothic church from the 15th century with wonderful stained glass. But the main church for the city is also very close, the Cathedral of St Andrew of Bordeaux.

You really can’t miss it because the spires can be seen towering over the city from almost anywhere in town. The church was founded way back in the year 814, but construction of the current incredible Gothic structure began in 1305.

Walk straight toward the Garonne River from the church and the Porte Cailhau will be directly in front of you. This is the gate into the city at the oldest bridge in the city. The impressive tower remains almost unchanged from when it was built way back when Columbus was sailing around the New World.

But there is more to Bordeaux than historic architecture, the name of the city and surrounding area is basically synonymous with wine. So you might want to check out one of the wonderful wine tours that Free Walking Tours Bordeaux also offers.

You will stroll through the wine merchant streets while learning about the different grape varieties in Bordeaux, the important wine regions in in the area, and how to read a wine label like a pro. And don’t worry, there is definitely some wine tasting. Enjoy glasses of four classic Bordeaux wines, along with a delicious platter of assorted cheeses. The tour also includes a visit to Cité du Vin, the world’s largest wine museum.

So now you can see why we find tours like these are such a great way to get introduced to a city. We also find that it helps plan for returning to take a more in depth visits to some of the places we see and learn about. This is why we always suggest that the tour should be early in your visit if you are staying for more than a day or two.

So, even though we still love to go off and explore on our own, a good tour and guide can certainly make a visit to a city like Bordeaux a much better over all experience.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com