Page 48 – A Brit and A Southerner

Chasing Wild Bears at Cades Cove in the Smokies

Tennessee

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Dec 11, 2014

Chasing Wild Bears at Cades Cove in the Smokies

Have you ever been on a ‘Wild Goose Chase’ somewhere? Well, we had our very own “Wild Bear Chase” in the Great Smoky Mountains as we wandered aimlessly (at least that’s what it felt like!) in search of the elusive black bear.

Heading to Gatlinburg, Tennessee and into the Smokies in search of wild bears must have been one of the craziest ideas we had ever dreamed of. This is exactly what we decided to do during the start of our Thanksgiving road trip when we spent two days in the Smoky Mountains.

Was our search a success? Well, I guess it depends on your interpretation of success! But the story of our experience is worthwhile and portrays an awesome experience exploring the Great Smoky Mountains. Regardless of whether you head there in search of the beloved bears, I can guarantee that you will enjoy your time in the ‘Smokies’ simply because of the natural beauty and wildlife that is present here.

After exploring the gorgeous Laurel Falls Trail during our first day, we headed further into the Smokies in search of these elusive black bears. Our research suggested that heading to Cades Cove would bring us a better chance at seeing bears along with other wildlife so that is where we ventured.

The Drive to Cades Cove

Driving through the Great Smoky Mountains is a delightful experience on its own, regardless of whether you stop and experience the outdoors. But there lies the first problem. If you have a plan in mind of where you want to get to, there are so many gorgeous spots along the way that it can take at least twice as long as you originally anticipated because you stop so frequently to admire the beautiful scenery.

As you leave the hustle and bustle of Gatlinburg, the drive takes you on a 27-mile journey to the entrance to Cades Cove Scenic Loop. The drive to Cades Cove runs parallel to the Little River which is a hub for picturesque scenery on its own.

We stopped on countless occasions to take pictures of the tranquil river and surrounding nature, again hoping to catch a glimpse of some rare wildlife. One disadvantage of this road is that the speed limit is only 35mph so you can imagine how long it takes to cover the 27 miles.

Cades Cove Scenic Loop

Arriving at Cades Cove, the main attraction is an 11-mile scenic loop that is one-way and is a perfect way to experience this part of the Smokies. Although being stuck in your car may seem like a disaster when you are considering exploring the countryside, this is actually a great way to get around as there are numerous landmarks and attractions along the way that allow you to get out and explore.

This scenic loop is a hub for black bears and we knew that this was going to provide our best opportunity to see one in the flesh. After reading a friends experience a few months earlier, we were optimistic that we would be just as lucky to see one or more bears. Patience is a virtue right, or so they say…more about the bears later!

Depending on how much time you spend at each of the landmarks or whether you decide to park somewhere and take a hike to Abrams Falls, this will determine the length of time it takes to complete the scenic loop.

We spent about 3 hours slowly making our way around the 11-mile trail but honestly, this could quite easily have been doubled though the weather was not always on our side and we were quite grateful for having the car for shelter on several occasions.

Cades Cove Buildings

One of the really cool features of this loop is the variety of old, derelict buildings that are still standing at various spots. There is so much history dating back to the early 19th century in this part of the Smokies. Here are a few of the structures and buildings worth exploring.

John Oliver Place is the first building you will come across on your tour of Cades Cove. Accessible via a 10-minute walk from the scenic loop road, Oliver constructed this ‘honeymoon house’ in 1818. It’s really cool to walk up to and inside Oliver’s Place. Standing inside a wooden shack and staring at the old wooden doors and windows, contemplating people living here really makes you realize how times have changed over the years.

Primitive Baptist Church and Missionary Baptist Church are both popular attractions along the route emphasizing the role religion has played here since Oliver introduced the Baptist denomination to Cades Cove in 1825. The Methodist Church also dates back to the early 19th Century but the building you see today was reconstructed in 1902.

There are several other residential and farm structures dotted around the scenic loop. The current day visitor center is located at John P. Cable Mill surrounded by a variety of barns, mills and of course the residence of Gregg-Cable House.

Wildlife

I’m sure this is what you were waiting to read…so what wildlife did we see on our travels around Cades Cove? Well, let’s start with the deer that were sporadically scattered around the trail. For the majority of the drive around Cades Cove, both Heather and I saw several deer but it was getting to a point where we felt this was the only wildlife we would encounter.

We were approaching one of the final wooden cabins on the scenic loop and I told Heather that I would get out of the car and walk over to explore and take some pictures because many of these structures look very similar to the rest. However, the moment I walked towards the cabin I noticed something moving behind the wooden shack. As I walked closer, I noticed a group of wild turkey grazing in the wooded area and as I moved closer to get a better picture, of course, they began to make their way further into the forest.

I motioned for Heather to come and take a look and we were very fortunate to experience these turkeys in their natural habitat. But of course deer and turkeys are great but we didn’t drive deep into the Great Smoky Mountains just to see them – we wanted a black bear! As we approached the end of the Cades Cove loop we realized that it wasn’t going to be our day and we should head back towards Gatlinburg.

Wild Bear Chase

Exiting the scenic loop we noticed quite a bit of commotion on the road with a number of cars and people congregated on the side of the road. A park ranger was motioning for people to continue on their way but we knew something was going on. We pulled over into a nearby parking lot and walked over to the group and there we saw it – A BLACK BEAR!! All the hours we spent exploring was worth the weight in gold as we caught a glimpse of a bear in the distance hiding behind a tree.

Despite the distance between us and the bear, we were able to get a good look, especially with the naked eye. Trying to take pictures with all of the trees and plant life was difficult and unfortunately, these are the best shots we were able to capture but we can finally say that we found what we were looking for.

Summary

Exploring Cades Cove was a breathtaking experience with stunning scenery and an abundance of history. Although our journey around the loop almost ended in an anti-climax, even if we hadn’t faced our bear encounter on the way back to Gatlinburg, this trip would have been worthwhile.

I would highly recommend heading to Cades Cove early in the morning in order to maximize your chances of seeing a myriad of wildlife. Enjoy the outdoors and explore all of what the Great Smoky Mountains has to offer – I know we certainly did!

You can check out many more of our pictures around Cades Cove and in the Great Smoky Mountains here: Smoky Mountains.

Hiking to Laurel Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains

Chris Boothman

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Dec 9, 2014

2

Hiking to Laurel Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains

With so many hiking trails and gorgeous natural landscapes present throughout the Great Smoky Mountains, it was natural that we wanted to explore as much as possible during our short weekend visit to Gatlinburg, TN.

Sat on the doorstep to the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a great location to be based if you want to take day hikes into the Smokies and this is exactly what we did as soon as we arrived there. This national park is famous for having a variety of waterfalls including Laurel Falls which we hiked to, Abrams Falls, Grotto Falls and Rainbow Falls among many others.

I am a huge fan of waterfalls, regardless of their size. Whether we have the opportunity to visit Niagara Falls or simply hike to a small waterfall that is gurgling over the edge, I am always up for the challenge.

Hiking the Trail

Day 1 saw us venture not too far into the Great Smoky Mountains after a brief visit to the Visitor Center for guidance on where we should explore. A short drive from Gatlinburg lead us to the foot of the Laurel Falls Trail. From Sugarlands Visitor Center you follow directions for Cades Cove and it is only 3.5 miles to the trailhead. Be cautious of your speed limit if driving as throughout the park it is 35mph!

We decided to explore Laurel Falls Trail primarily to see the waterfall at the head of the trail but also in the slight hope we may see a bear or two along the way.

According to the park rangers, this hike is one of the simpler hikes available in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and is a great option for beginners. Arriving late in the day, Laurel Falls was a great option for us as it is just under 3 miles round trip, so nothing too strenuous at all.

The trail to Laurel Falls is all uphill around the side of the mountain, but the trail is kept in great condition through the wooded environment. The trail is paved for the most part though there are a few spots that are uneven so just be aware of your surroundings as you make your way to the summit.

Black Bear Sightings

Rumor has it that this is a popular spot for black bears to be active but unfortunately we left disappointed on this front as we saw very little in terms of wildlife. Whether it was the time of the day or even the time of the year, it was a definite negative on bear sightings. But we didn’t let this deter us from enjoying the experience as hiking to the waterfall itself was worth the time we spent.

There are advertisements throughout the trail advising visitors to ensure they take all of their belongings with them, especially litter. A story of a black bear biting a hiker in 2010 along the Laurel Falls Trail is detailed, simply because the bears are so attracted to the smells of food combined with the scent of humans. Fortunately for that hiker, their injuries were minor but the bear was forced to be euthanized due to fears that attacks may reoccur.

Warnings are there not only to protect visitors but also to protect the bears. Ultimately we are all entering the bears home and not vice-versa. We should all respect the landscape and reading these stories really touched a nerve and made me realize that we all need to do a much better job when it comes to helping the environment.

Laurel Falls

I probably get way too excited by the sight of waterfalls but they are just so relaxing and tranquil to see the water flowing over the edge and down the side of a mountain. Laurel Falls is never going to break any records in terms of height, but standing at 80ft it is still a really impressive drop. You know you are getting close to the waterfall from a fair distance away along the trail as you can hear the water flowing, but nothing beats the moment you walk around the corner and see the falls.

This is certainly a popular spot for people to have a picnic or just sit and relax with the sound of the water in the background. It creates a perfect atmosphere especially for the nomadic traveler in me who likes to take a break and contemplate my next journey.

A bridge crosses about half way down the falls and then there is a further drop to the rockpool where the water collects before moving further downstream. Despite warnings to not climb on the rocks, there are always the adventurous or perhaps rebellious type that clamber to the top which I am sure provides an even better view down the falls. We opted to stay at the bottom, the good samaritans that we are, and take a variety of selfies with Laurel Falls behind us.

Summary

Laurel Falls is a great way to open your account in the Great Smoky Mountains. Short, not particularly demanding and a gorgeous waterfall awaits at the end of the trail! The hike back down is easy as the majority is downhill and of course it takes much less time that the hike up. We really enjoyed our time here though of course we were slightly disappointed at the lack of bear sightings…or perhaps this was a good thing!

If you are planning on taking a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, I would highly encourage you to visit Sugarlands Visitor Center as there is a plethora of information available on the various hikes available.

To view more of our pictures of our experiences on Laurel Falls Trail and throughout the Great Smoky Mountains, check out our photo gallery here: Smoky Mountains 2014

Luxury Seafood Cuisine at Cobalt Restaurant

Chris Boothman

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Dec 6, 2014

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Luxury Seafood Cuisine at Cobalt Restaurant

One of the most exciting aspects about heading to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach was the thought of sampling some of the finest seafood given it’s location along the Gulf of Mexico. I will say that this stretch of coastlines spoils visitors for choice in terms of variety and the number of seafood restaurants available. However, our experience at Cobalt Restaurant in Orange Beach really makes me believe you would have to go a long way to find something better or more inviting than the experience we encountered here.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Cobalt is truly a timeless treasure.

Before heading to Cobalt, I checked out their website to take a look at the menu and I was immediately struck by the above quote but of course didn’t think much about it until after our experience. We spent over 2 hours at this restaurant and the time just flew by confirming that this truly is a ‘timeless treasure.’

Cobalt Restaurant Location

Located under the Perdido Bay Bridge in Orange Beach, Alabama, the first thing you notice as you approach Cobalt Restaurant is the location and the gorgeous views you likely can appreciate during your visit. Of course, our visit to Cobalt was in the evening so we were not able to see very much but by all accounts the views overlooking the bay are stunning.

Every table inside Cobalt provides views across the bay, so I would highly recommend checking this spot out during the day to really make the most of the scenery.

Restaurant Experience

We had a reservation for 6:30PM on a Saturday evening and we were immediately taken to our seats by the large windows overlooking the bay. The overall ambience and atmosphere in the restaurant was really relaxing and romantic, providing a perfect setting to enjoy our luxury seafood experience.

Our waiter arrived shortly after we were seated and we immediately knew that the service was going to be great. He took our drink orders and proceeded to provide a few recommendations and seasonal dishes that were on offer at Cobalt.

Before detailing our full dining experience in terms of each course we sampled, I will say that Heather and I are usually ‘one course’ type diners so to experience a location where we were able to experience a full 5-course meal was way above and beyond our expectations but this is exactly what we encountered at Cobalt. Technically our dining experience probably wasn’t an official 5 course meal but given that we encountered 5 unique dishes throughout the night, this is the best way to breakdown our dining here.

Perusing the menu for the first time may seem a little daunting simply because there is so much to choose from and so many of the items look appealing. Given that our experience of all our options was amazing, I would recommend trying all these but based on everything we have heard regarding Cobalt, they are well recognized and renowed for many of their menu options.

Meal 1 – The Appetizer

After ordering our drinks, we immediately decided to order the Cobalt Crab and Shrimp Dip which was a really appealing appetizer to both of us. We both generally like dips and given our fondness for seafood, it was natural we wanted to sample this. The dip is a mixture of blue crab and bay shrimp caught directly from the nearby Gulf, combined with roasted red peppers, parmesan and Swiss cheese. Served with warm French bread, the appearance is just as delightful as it sounds on the menu.

However, the real winner is when you begin to taste this dip. I may not be qualified as a huge food critic or even a ‘foodie’ in today’s modern age, but I will say that this provides a perfect blend to start your seafood experience at Cobalt.

My one word of caution here is to be careful how much you eat because the serving portion is probably too much for two people, especially if you want to enjoy the rest of your experience here.

Meal 2 – The Oysters

Just like many other restaurants in this part of USA, Cobalt is famous for their high quality, award winning oysters so it was natural that we had to try them for ourselves. However, this was unlike any other sampling as this was the first time that Heather or I had tried oysters. Yes, that’s right, neither of us had sampled this delicacy prior to visiting Cobalt so we were both a little nervous and excited at the same time.

Our waiter suggested that we sample a variety of the Cobalt Oysters available. We followed his lead and opted for a half dozen raw, traditional oysters and another half dozen of the baked variety which came with three different ingredients – Garlic Parmesan, Crab and Shrimp Au Gratin and Rockefeller.

Have you sampled oysters before? Regardless of your answer, I will say the first thing that you notice is the texture and honestly this may be something that puts me off eating them again in the future. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with my overall experience with oysters but I put that down to being a picky eater. The raw oysters in my opinion were better than the baked, though Heather felt the opposite as she preferred the mixture with other ingredients, rather than just having to deal with the slimy texture.

Meal 3 – The Salad

By now I was already feeling pretty full after the oysters and crab dip. However, the food kept coming and our entrées were both accompanied with salads. I opted for the simple Caesar Salad while Heather went for the Cobalt Market Salad.

I only had a few bites out of my salad because I wanted to enjoy my entree but Heather really enjoyed her market salad which included three purple, sweet potato fritters that looked like meatballs.

Meal 4 – The Entrées

So much choice, so many options…where do you even begin to choose an entrée at Cobalt Restaurant? Well, you may think that we naturally both went for seafood options but instead I went against the norm and ordered the Peppercorn Encrusted Filet. Heather ensured that we were able to sample a seafood entrée by opting for the Panéed Gulf Grouper.

Let’s start with my steak. One word – AMAZING! I am not a huge steak lover which is unlike most folks that live in Arkansas. But after sampling this steak, I could definitely see myself becoming an aficionado of steaks just because of how good this was. I am not sure if it was the peppercorn that surrounded the steak or simply the quality of cut provided, but either way this was one steak I can highly recommend anyone trying. Complimented with mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus and Cobalt steak butter this was a really tasty dish.

The grouper that Heather went for is highly touted as one of the best options on Cobalt’s menu. I am not a fan of rice so when I heard this was accompanied with a risotto, I was glad this was Heather’s choice and not mine. However, I tried some of the grouper and I can certainly see how this is is an award winning dish. Perfectly cooked and seasoned adequately to provide a lasting taste alongside the risotto and topped with a sweet pepper remoulade.

Meal 5 – The Desserts

Have you ever had that feeling where you are completely stuffed after eating an amazing meal but the sound and sight of dessert just keeps you going a little bit longer? Well, when you see the selection of desserts at Cobalt Restaurant, you will understand exactly what I am talking about. Plus it never helps when you waiter convinces you to try them given that they are absolutely amazing – we just had to find this out for ourselves.

The Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée was calling my name and Heather went for the waiter’s recommendation – Banana Pudding. Delectable, delicious, demolished – that’s pretty much the three words that sums up the appearance, taste and end result of our desserts at Cobalt.

Summary

What an amazing experience we had at Cobalt Restaurant. All of our meals were awesome, the service from our waiter was top-notch and the atmosphere was perfect for our evening meal. If you plan on visiting Gulf Shores or Orange Beach in the near future and you need a recommendation for a high quality seafood experience, you would be well-advised to check out Cobalt by Perdido Bay Bridge.

Disclaimer – We would like to thank Cobalt Restaurant and Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for hosting us on this trip. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

Top Attractions in Gulf Shores Away from a Beach

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Dec 3, 2014

12

Top Attractions in Gulf Shores Away from a Beach

It goes without saying that anyone heading to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama will likely want to take advantage of the miles and miles of pristine beaches that stretch along the Gulf of Mexico. However, what happens when you venture here in the middle of November and it is 50 degrees outside? It’s hardly warm enough to don your bathing suit and head down to the beach, so you need to look for alternatives to entertain yourselves.

Well, this is exactly what happened when we visited Gulf Shores and Orange Beach recently but fortunately, we were able to experience several other attractions that definitely serve as excellent backups should the climate not be conducive to helping your suntan. In fact, after reading this article, I hope these recommendations make you consider visiting this stretch of Alabama coastline at any time of the year because from our experiences, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are both locations that are much more than just a hub for perfect beaches!

Here are a few suggestions to wet your appetite and hopefully inspire you to visit Alabama in the near future. Some of the top attractions in Gulf Shores involve anything but the beach, so whether you are an avid golfer, a history buff or simply like exploring the outdoors, there is something for everyone!

Peninsula Golf Club

I am a huge golf fan and any opportunity I get to hit the links, I look forward to taking advantage of it! The moment I heard about Peninsula Golf Club in Gulf Shores, I was excited about the potential of playing this resort type complex. 27 holes set along beautiful Mobile Bay, this golf course oozes class, beauty and a challenge for even the most gifted of golfers.

Our tee time was scheduled for 11:00 AM on a chilly Friday morning, but pulling into the parking lot about 20 minutes prior to teeing off, I knew we would be in for a real treat. Everything about the golf course was perfectly manicured from the greens to the tee boxes and even the aesthetic touches around the clubhouse and practice areas.

As we drove our cart to the first tee, the starter told us to take our time and enjoy the two 9-hole courses we would be playing today – the Lakes and the Marsh. This resort has a third course, the Cypress and each day the three courses are rotated out to ensure that they all remain in pristine condition (kudos to the greenskeepers for maintaining such a high-quality resort!)

Another nice touch on the first tee was a barrel full of ice and cold apples that provided a refreshing start to your round. Despite the frigid conditions, this still proved to be beneficial later in the round to give an extra boost of energy.

Without going into too much detail of my round, the first 9 holes were a little disappointing as I struggled to find any sort of consistency with my driver and irons. However, the second nine was a drastic improvement as we made our way around the Marsh course, culminating in the highlight of my round on the 18th when I hit a driver, 3-wood to 8 feet on a par 5. It would have been a fitting end to an awesome day had I rolled in the eagle putt but it wasn’t to be and I walked off the green satisfied with just a birdie.

A score of 81 on my first round at Peninsula wasn’t anything to be too upset about and I look forward to heading back here in the near future to hopefully improve on that score!

If you are a golfer of any standard, I highly recommend taking your clubs to Gulf Shores and sampling this beautiful golf course. Peninsula Golf Club is one of the best courses in terms of natural beauty and overall condition of the course that I have played.

Historic Fort Morgan

After a relaxing morning on the golf course, head along Highway 180 to what feels like the end of the world but instead provides an enthralling experience as you explore Historic Fort Morgan.

Fort Morgan is a well-preserved historic site that was an active location in four wars – the Civil War, Spanish-American War and World Wars I and II. Construction of this site was completed in the early 19th century and today this still stands proudly as an iconic preservation site along this stretch of coastline.

As we walked around the site and learned more about the history of Fort Morgan, it became apparent that this was most famous for the role it played in the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay. I am not a history buff but stood there in the spot where torpedoes would have been fired across the Bay was certainly a memorable experience.

Battery Schenck located outside the main entrance to the fort was a rapid-fire battery capable of firing ten rounds a minute and was named after First Lieutenant William Schenck who was killed in action.

The entrance to the main part of Fort Morgan is a long tunnel that takes you through the embankments into the ‘sally port’ of the fort. The moment you exit the tunnel you are surrounded by the magnitude of Fort Morgan and it really is an impressive spot to peer around the panoramic views. The casemates of Fort Morgan were once smoke-filled rooms, whereas now they are simply historic ruins that are trying to preserve some sort of resemblance of their original condition.

A trip to Gulf Shores would not be complete without exploring Historic Fort Morgan. There is so much history to be found here and you never know what hidden gem you may come across as you wander around these grounds that were once the site of major warfare.

Biking the Backcountry Trails

While we may not be the next winners of the Tour de France, we love to head outdoors on our bikes and explore. When we were given the opportunity to rent bikes courtesy of Beach Bike Rentals and experience the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Backcountry trails, we were certainly up for the challenge.

After collecting our 3-speed bikes that would be our form of transportation for the next few hours, we grabbed a map of the trails and headed out to explore. There are a variety of routes and trails that you can take throughout the backcountry. The map details the trails through Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry park as “seven distinct trails through six different ecosystems” so with our backpack and camera accompanying us, we ventured on our way.

The first thing you notice as you start out is the overall quality of the trails. Paved trails are throughout and all are wide enough to allow for bikers and pedestrians to comfortably pass each other without fear of colliding!

The trails vary in terms of distance but all have unique names ranging from Rattlesnake Ridge (fortunately we passed through here without any scary encounters!) to Coyote Crossing. In total there are about 15 miles of trails you can experience, plus a couple of other options that allow you to go even further along Highway 180 by Peninsula Golf Club.

Here is a map of the trails so you can plan out your route prior to embarking on your adventures: Backcountry Trail Map.

As you meander around the trails, make sure you keep a close eye out for ‘Lefty’, a legendary three-legged alligator that lives along the trail. A plethora of other wildlife along with a flora and fauna trail that will keep you intrigued as you explore every nook and cranny the Gulf Backcountry has to offer.

Summary

Three awesome alternatives to relaxing on the beach! In fact, after experiencing all of these during our recent visit to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach I am glad the weather didn’t allow for much beach time because I think we would have missed out on these amazing attractions.

Of course, I was sold on golf the moment I heard about Peninsula Golf Club but Historic Fort Morgan and Biking the Backcountry Trails were two hidden gems I was delighted we were able to experience. Check out these attractions – you won’t be disappointed!

If you would like to see more pictures from our experiences at each of these three attractions, please visit our Gulf Shores and Orange Beach photo gallery here.

Disclaimer – We would like to thank Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for hosting us on this trip. In addition, thank you to Peninsula Golf Club, Historic Fort Morgan and Beach Bike Rentals for providing complimentary access to these attractions. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

Where to Eat Breakfast in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Chris Boothman

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Nov 29, 2014

12

Where to Eat Breakfast in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Whether you are a firm believer in the myth that breakfast is the most important meal of the day or prefer to just have something light, we definitely like to start our day with enough to provide energy to keep us going throughout the day.

During our recent trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama we were fortunate to sample three amazing spots for breakfast that are far from the chain stereotypes you associate with American breakfast cuisine. So hopefully after reading this post, you will feel the need to take a trip to this stretch of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico and sample some of these delectable delights for yourself!

I love to start the day with a good old full English breakfast so anywhere that offers something comparable to this, I am eager to try it out. However, I also love variety and trying new options at breakfast is definitely something we try to include on our travels. Breakfast in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach was a huge success for us, so we want to share with you our experiences from the three restaurants we sampled and perhaps encourage you to try them for yourselves.

Brick and Spoon

On our first day in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we made the trip from our accommodation at The Beach Club by Spectrum Resorts to Orange Beach to sample the wonderfully named Brick and Spoon restaurant.

On the outside, Brick and Spoon is aesthetically appealing with a rustic design and ample parking for visitors. The moment you walk in though, you are presented with a gorgeous décor and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for any meal of the day.

We were greeted by an extremely friendly waitress who took our drink orders and immediately gave us a recommendation on an appetizer (wait, an appetizer for breakfast…oh well, we were on our travels so why not sample something a little different!).

Let me introduce you to our breakfast starter – Bananas in Pajamas! If the name alone doesn’t tempt you, just take a moment to consider the ingredients that make up this appetizer. Crispy banana eggrolls served with fosters sauce and yes, I can confirm that they tasted just as good as they sound. They are incredibly sweet so be prepared to have your choice of main course catered to this as you likely won’t need anything else to help your sugar rush.

Are you sold already on this amazing restaurant for breakfast? If not, let me share with your our main courses that I am sure will seal the deal! Heather opted for the Killer Creole Omelet that incorporated a nice blend of the Gulf mixed with some hearty ingredients that produced an awesome looking dish. Shrimp, onions, peppers, cheddar cheese and topped with hollandaise sauce were all used in this omelet. A side of pomme frites and salad provided a perfect energy boosting start to the day.

Despite having a hard time making my choice, I eventually went for the Caribbean Scrambler. Jerk chicken, pineapple, onion, cheese and topped with mango salsa. Words cannot describe how amazing this was.

Even though we didn’t sample the well acclaimed Bloody Mary bar, I would certainly recommend trying this if you have any desire to try one for the first time or you have fond memories of this drink.

You even have a menu on your table that allows you to customize the exact Bloody Mary you want, ranging from the various vodkas you can choose to the different vegetables and meats you want to be incorporated into your breakfast drink. I am not at all a fan of tomato juice, therefore I chose to give this a miss!

Brick and Spoon is the perfect way to start your day! Combine the atmosphere with the amazing cuisine on offer and you have the perfect breakfast restaurant in Orange Beach, Alabama.

Here is the full Brick and Spoon breakfast menu: Brick and Spoon Menu.

Fiddlefish Seafood Cafe

Another great option in Orange Beach is Fiddlefish Seafood Cafe. It is appropriate to assume that this well-named location along the Orange Beach coastline is reputed as having great seafood cuisine, but what may be surprising are the excellent breakfast choices that are on offer.

I have to admit that Heather and I were a little hesitant prior to visiting Fiddlefish simply because we were not able to find a breakfast menu anywhere online, but we remained open-minded and headed there to start our second day in the area.

This café has a real ‘diner’ type feel to it in terms of décor but with an added hint of elegance with the designs on the wall, iconic to the Fiddlefish brand. Walking inside we immediately felt at home, probably because of the warm welcome we received from our waitress and also as we were the only two in the restaurant.

If you visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in November, you will likely find this a common occurrence as restaurants and attractions are very seasonal in terms of how much business they receive. Please don’t let the number of visitors inside Fiddlefish Seafood Café sway your opinion, instead head inside and allow your experience to reflect your review.

The breakfast menu offered a sufficient variety and I immediately opted for what I would refer to as an English breakfast, though this did have a stereotypical American feel to it with sausage, eggs, potatoes and toast. Heather picked out the ‘Scrambled Up’ breakfast bowl containing eggs, potatoes, peppers and sausage.

Both of our choices were huge success stories and walking out of Fiddlefish, we were both surprisingly impressed by the quality and in particular the service we received.

Tacky Jack’s

Our final morning in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach saw us venture to Tacky Jack’s, which is a chain throughout this stretch of Alabama. There are three different locations in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. As we were heading home after breakfast, we opted for the Gulf Shores location which had ample seating both indoors and outside on a deck overlooking the marina.

The first thing you notice here is the fun-filled atmosphere and décor throughout the building. Everything here is extravagant, colorful and a really entertaining spot not only for breakfast but also at any time of the day.

Yet again we were spoiled for choice with breakfast options but we decided on the breakfast burritos and wheelhouse pancake. Heather’s burrito was filled with eggs, sausage, cheese, sour cream and of course salsa!

I added whipped cream and strawberries to my pancake and the moment our waitress brought our meals, I sat for a second looking in awe at the size of the pancake. The pancake was literally bigger than the plate and after adding the fillings, I was ready to devour this sweet beauty!

Here is the full breakfast menu for Tacky Jack’s in Gulf Shores: Tacky Jack’s Menu.

Summary

There you have our three recommended ‘breakfast hot-spots’ in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. All three of these options are equally great and each one has a different variety on their breakfast menu.

Determining which one of these is most suitable for you is essentially tastebud preference, but I would highly encourage to try these the next time you head to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. If your experience is half what we encountered, you will be thankful for trying these great restaurants!

Disclaimer – We would like to thank Gulf Shores and Orange Beach for hosting us on this trip. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

The Beach Club Resort and Spa – Luxury in Gulf Shores

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Nov 25, 2014

12

The Beach Club Resort and Spa – Luxury in Gulf Shores

When you think about luxury retreats around the world, I am sure many of you are probably envisioning the over-water huts in Tahiti or perhaps an all-inclusive resort on the Caribbean island of Jamaica. However, we would like to share with you our recent experience at a hidden gem on the peninsula of Gulf Shores, Alabama.

The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts is the ultimate luxury accommodation in Gulf Shores and we would encourage anyone considering heading down to this part of USA to stay here. Whether you are looking for the perfect spot to relax on the beach, try your luck at the racquet club or sample some of the fine cuisine available, The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts has it all….and MORE!!

Where is The Beach Club Resort and Spa

The Beach Club Resort and Spa is located close to the historic Fort Morgan site, and while this is not conveniently located to the main area of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the remoteness of this location is what helps visitors enjoy ultimate relaxation. We have experienced The Beach Club Resort and Spa during both peak and off-peak times, and we would 100% attest that regardless of when you are choosing to visit the Gulf Coast, this is definitelay an accommodation option worth considering.

As you approach The Beach Club resort, the first thing you notice is the remoteness of this location in relation to other condos and attractions. This may be a negative to many visitors who prefer the hustle and bustle of the Gulf Shores nightlife, but we both considered this to be a huge advantage given that heading to this part of Alabama is all about relaxation, yet still having the option to explore everything else the Gulf has to offer.

The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts is located about 20 minutes from the heart of Gulf Shores and a further 10 minutes to Orange Beach, so it is a perfect compromise dependent on your preference. Located about 15 minutes from Fort Morgan, this is really in a perfect location with nearby golf courses (Kiva Dunes and Peninsula Golf Club) also providing an outdoor attraction should you wish to explore the region further.

Many visitors to this resort will likely stay here the whole time and find no need to leave, given that there are an abundance of activities and attractions available in the confines of the resort…more on that later!

The Beach Club Resort and Spa Accommodations

We have stayed in both the Catalina and Doral towers but you could also stay in the Avalon, or Bristol towers. While we generally don’t stay in condos, we would argue that after staying in one of these condos, your opinion on relaxing in the “home away from home” surroundings would convince you to choose the condo option in other destinations moving forward. After our visits, we are both pretty much convinced this is the route to take with future trips to the Gulf Coast.

Spacious, comfortable, gorgeous décor and stunning views are all relevant when describing the condos at The Beach Club Resort and Spa. However, even this doesn’t begin to describe our emotions as we enjoyed everything our room had to offer throughout our long weekend getaway at this resort.

If it hadn’t been for our desire to explore Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we would have loved to stay in our condo and enjoy the stunning views over the Gulf.

Whether you choose to stay in a one or two bedroom condo, the piece de resistance is definitely the balconies overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Add to this a large living quarters with dining room, fully fitted kitchen and a laundry room and you have everything you need to enjoy a relaxing vacation, yet living like you are at home.

As mentioned, the master bedroom also opens up to a large balcony that is also accessible from the living room providing breathtaking views and a perfect location to wake up and watch the sun rise. If you venture away from the resort to explore the best things to do in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, be sure to head back in time to capture the epic sunsets which rarely disappoint along this stretch of coastline.

Coast Restaurant

The Beach Club Resort and Spa is home to several dining options, ranging from luxury fine dining at Coast Restaurant to the Creamery where you can grab your favorite sweet treat. Let’s start with the delicious menu options available at Coast Restaurant and whether you are staying on-site or simply looking for one of the best places to dine along the Gulf Coast, this restaurant is definitely one you should consider.

The airy ambience offers a relaxing environment for an evening dinner, either inside or on the outdoor patio area overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. With an array of freshly prepared dishes on the menu, and a wide drink selection, you can certainly find something to satisfy everyone’s palate.

We opted for the crab bisque and wedge salad to start, before indulging in the fresh catch of the day, the bronzed red snapper accompanied by sweet and spicy Brussels sprouts. Heather decided to sample the New York Strip Steak which was equally appetizing, and highlighted how Coast Restaurant has an eclectic menu to satisfy everyone’s appetite.

The Village Hideaway

If you are looking for a more relaxed vibe, and a quick bite to eat, the Village Hideaway has a real sports bar feel to it with numerous televisions playing the latest sporting events and two pool tables available should you wish to let your competitive edge get the better of you and play against your partner.

Of course, it goes without saying that the real attraction here for me is the golf simulator that provides visitors the opportunity to test your golfing skills with a virtual experience that I have to admit is pretty realistic. Clubs are provided and you play the course by hitting shots against a net and the simulated experience picks up all of your strengths and of course weaknesses!

Oh yes… and then there is the small matter of the AMAZING cuisine on offer here. Courtesy of head chef John Hamme, an array of delectable options is available on the menu and you really are spoiled for choice.

We started with the smoked tuna dip which is fresh tuna smoked in-house combined with a unique dressing and seasoning. The taste was amazing and provided an excellent appetizer prior to our main course.

Heather also sampled the New Orleans style gumbo which I have to say added a real gulf style flavor to our meal. I will say that whatever appetizer or soup you choose, please make sure you leave enough room for the entrée because they are certainly worth the wait!

I ordered the Boneless Chicken Tenders tossed with hot buffalo sauce accompanied with fries. Heather opted for the restaurant famous Hideaway Pizza (Mozzarella, Pepperoni, Sausage, Bacon, Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Onions and Black Olives) and the moment our meals arrived we knew we were in for a real treat.

If you still have room for dessert after demolishing all of this amazing food, why not try the brownie sundae, which adds a sweet finish to your experience. We also ordered a key lime martini which although Heather wasn’t too fond of, I was surprisingly very impressed by how good this tasted.

Get Involved with Activities

The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts is a fun-filled adventure paradise. Relaxing in one of the outdoor pools or perhaps taking a plunge in the indoor heated pool is a great way to start the day and then head over to the Racquet Club to test your tennis skills on one of the eight outdoor courts.

A basketball court, outdoor chess and checkers set and a walking trail are all options to keep your activity levels up after sampling the fine cuisine at The Beach Club.

Summary

Everything about our experience at The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts was perfect. We would go back here in a heartbeat and we would definitely love to sample some of the other condominium towers offered by Spectrum Resorts (Turquoise Place) in the Gulf Shores region.

The Beach Club may be remote in terms of location but everything within the boundaries of the resort makes this an accommodation option you have to consider. It is a perfect location for a long weekend getaway for all the family, whether you are a couple or a family looking for a vacation spot.

Not only is this perfect for a weekend break, we could definitely see us heading back here for a longer vacation during the summer months when you can relax by the pool or head to the private beach to take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico or sample the more adventurous water sports on offer.

Disclaimer – We would like to thank The Beach Club Resort and Spa by Spectrum Resorts for hosting us on our initial visit. However, we have also had subsequent stays where we have paid the regular rate. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Vancouver

Canada

Chris Boothman

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Nov 20, 2014

25

Following the huge success of our “Top 10 Reasons to Visit London”, it became apparent that we all love browsing through quick lists to give us recommendations on what to do when visiting a destination. Our recent trip across the border to Canada gave us the opportunity to visit the gorgeous city of Vancouver, so what better way to continue our “Top 10” series that by sharing our top 10 reasons to visit Vancouver.

After reading this post, I am convinced that if you haven’t already visited Canada’s third biggest metropolis, you will be eager to book a trip there in the near future!

People are always asking us, “Why do you visit this location?” There is no simple answer though our curiosity and desire to explore new places is a good enough reason for me! What’s more, whenever I visit a new destination I am always eager to find a number of reasons that make me want to go back.

I love just how beautiful Vancouver is. I mean, everywhere you look it’s just mountains and ocean. – Emma Bell

Despite the inclement weather conditions, we experienced a myriad of landmarks and exciting adventures that immediately took Vancouver near the top of our favorite cities list around the world. Of course, we wouldn’t have had it any other way visiting the perfectly named “Rain City” though we did encounter one gorgeous day which was perfect for some outdoor adventures (more on that later)!

As with all top 10 posts, these are purely our opinions and I encourage you all to share your top reasons to visit Vancouver in the comments below.

1. FlyOver Canada

An all-new experience located on Vancouver’s Canada Place is an amazing simulation known as FlyOver Canada. Purchase your tickets online to save on the admission price but definitely take the time to experience Canada in a nutshell by visiting FlyOver Canada.

This breathtaking ride takes you on a journey across Canada in just 8 minutes. Don’t be fooled though by the short time you are experiencing this simulation because you leave with awesome memories and vivid images in your mind of Canada’s stunning landscapes and diverse cultures. The final part of the simulation takes you on a brief journey in and around Vancouver, providing you with incentive to get out and start exploring.

We headed to FlyOver Canada on our first morning in Vancouver and this really set the tone for the remainder of our time here as it gave us the impetus to explore everything this city has to offer.

2. Stanley Park

One of the focal points for Vancouver locals is Stanley Park, which is their equivalent of Central Park or Hyde Park. Located on the edge of Vancouver’s city center, Stanley Park covers over 1000 acres and is unique in the respect that it is surrounded for the most part by the Pacific Ocean. Of course, these surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for stunning scenery and offer a flawless hub of relaxation for visitors.

There are an abundance of points of interest inside Stanley Park, none more popular than the Totem Poles, which are one of the most visited attractions throughout British Columbia. Another popular attraction in Stanley Park is the Vancouver Aquarium which hosts beluga whales, penguins among other marine life.

3. BC Sports Hall of Fame

Home of the 2010 Winter Olympics, a trip to Vancouver wouldn’t be the same without exploring the BC Sports Hall of Fame to experience the sporting history that has evolved throughout the British Columbia province.

Located in BC Place Stadium, home of the Vancouver Whitecaps, the Hall of Fame is a great experience that takes you through the history of a variety of summer and winter sports and also provides an interactive experience with opportunities to test your hockey skills or taking a penalty kick against a virtual screen.

The most intriguing exhibit throughout the museum is the history of Rick Hansen who set out in 1985 on a 40,000km Man In Motion round the world trip by wheelchair. I was particularly impressed to read about this feat in addition to all of his other accomplishments throughout his career.

4. Chinatown

One of the most thriving communities throughout Vancouver is Chinatown, largely because of the large population of Chinese individuals in this part of Canada. There have been several Chinese immigration bursts over the last several decades and this is certainly reflected in the community.

The main area denoted as Chinatown is a relatively aging populations but there are certainly younger Chinese populations starting to emerge in different regions in Vancouver.

The most intriguing focal point of Chinatown is Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden – A Ming Dynasty Scholar’s Garden. A comparatively small garden but a distinctive hub of relaxation for Chinese locals and tourists alike. From colorful plant arrangements to symbolic yin and yang representations, this Chinese garden offers an array of intriguing characteristics worthy of your time.

5. Gastown

Named after John “Gassy Jack” Deighton who setup a saloon in this part of Vancouver, Gastown became the city’s commercial and shipping hub. Today this community is host to many of the leading restaurants in Vancouver along with bars, premiere shops and galleries.

Of course, an iconic symbol in Gastown is the Steam Clock, which is one of only a few remaining functioning steam clocks.

6. Capilano Suspension Bridge

Situated in North Vancouver across the Lions Gate Bridge, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park provides breathtaking scenery, lookouts and experiences for daring visitors. The 450-foot span suspension bridge that looks more like a rope bridge, especially when you cross over and you encounter the swaying from side to side.

You can also test your nerves by walking around the Cliffwalk that is suspended around the cliff above the Capilano River Canyon. This attraction provides Vancouver with a real outdoor, adventure experience without having to venture too far away from the city center.

If you are exploring downtown Vancouver, hop on the free shuttle that leaves a variety of locations including Canada Place and the Hyatt Regency among others. Check the Vancouver Tourism Board for times as these vary depending on season.

7. Vancouver Lookout

Vancouver is a pretty spectacular city to look at from a variety of locations but none more so than at the summit of the Vancouver Lookout. Standing at 553ft, this observation deck provides breathtaking views around Vancouver and beyond, providing the perfect birds eye view of the city so you can prepare your assault on exploring everywhere.

Admission to the Vancouver Lookout provides you with full-day access so feel free to venture to the summit during the day and then return later for an evening view of the city.

8. Queen Elizabeth Park

If heading to the top of a skyscraper isn’t your idea of fun but you are still seeking out spectacular views of Vancouver, check out the horticultural jewel that is Queen Elizabeth Park. Due to its height above sea level, this is the highest point in Vancouver and provides stunning scenery of the park, city and nearby mountains.

This park is also home to the Bloedel Conservatory, an attraction providing tropical ecosystems, exotic birdlife and a myriad of exhibits for all the family to experience.

9. Granville Island

One of the hidden gems in Vancouver has to be Granville Island. Located across False Creek from downtown Vancouver, this peninsula is a shopping district infamously known to locals for the local public market that houses fresh produce among many other delicacies.

The shopping experience is not the only attraction here as Granville Island is home to a local brewery and wine merchant. This is definitely a must-see place, especially if you want to experience a true, authentic Canadian marketplace atmosphere.

10. Museums

Just like other global cities, Vancouver is home to a variety of museums, each offering a unique collection of exhibits that may interest you depending on your taste. During our visit to Vancouver, we experienced the Vancouver Art Gallery that was housing The Forbidden City collection.

Other museums of note that are worthy of catching your attention include the Vancouver Maritime Museum and Museum of Vancouver.

There you have our top 10 reasons to visit Vancouver, Canada! I am sure there are many more attractions worthy of being included on this list, so what would you add? What are your experiences in Vancouver?

Disclaimer – We would like to thank Tourism Vancouver for providing us with a media pass to visit many of these attractions. The content of this post are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

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WIN New York City On Location Movie Tours

Chris Boothman

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Nov 19, 2014

3

WIN New York City On Location Movie Tours

Have you ever wanted to feed the pigeons in the same location where Macaulay Culkin fed them in Home Alone 2? Or perhaps you would like to see the apartment where Buddy the Elf stayed with his dad during the infamous movie, Elf!

You can do both of these along with much, much more courtesy of the myriad of New York City movie tours available courtesy of On Location Tours. Plus at the end of this article, we are delighted to provide you with an opportunity to win 2 tickets for a movie/TV tour of your choice courtesy of our partnership with On Location Tours.

Who are On Location Tours?

When you read the mission statement of On Location Tours and hear that they are focused on allowing people the opportunity to straddle fiction and reality, you know you are on to a real winner with them.

On Location Tours was founded in 1999 and history shows that iconic landmarks in movies are popular tourist attractions, therefore it was a natural decision to develop such an eye-catching opportunity in New York City.

Why use On Location Tours?

I am not a huge movie buff but strangely enough the majority of movies I recall from years gone by all have iconic scenes taken in New York City. Central Park is of course a legendary hotspot in a number of movies including the memorable romantic moment between John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale during Serendipity at the Wollman Ice Rink.

But these movie tours are much more than just reminiscing the movies of years gone by. Take the opportunity to check out some of the famed locations from your favorite TV shows such as Friends and Sex and the City. Wouldn’t you just love to check out the apartment building from Friends or maybe see where Carrie and Big had their wedding rehearsal dinner!

As Frank Sinatra infamously started his hit, “New York, New York”…

“Start spreading the news, I’m leaving today. I want to be a part of it”….

And of course we all know the rest. Well, I think this pretty much sums up my interpretation of the ultimate 24 hour city of the world, New York City – I want to be a part of it and honestly I couldn’t think of any better way to explore this city by taking in the abundance of attractions available on one of the On Location Movie Tours.

New York City On Location Movie Tours

The most difficult decision you will face is figuring out exactly which tour you want to take. Here is a listing of those available in New York City:

New York TV & Movie Sites Tour
Sex and the City Hotspots Tour
TMZ Tour NYC
Gossip Girl Sites Tour
TCM Classic Film Tour
Sopranos Sites Tour
Central Park TV & Movie Sites Tour
Uptown TV & Movie Sites Tour
Holiday Lights & Movie Sites

A pretty vast selection to choose from but perhaps taking multiple tours would be the best option especially if you plan on staying in the Big Apple for a few days.

Holiday Lights and Movie Sites Tour

With the holiday season right around the corner, this is a perfect time to experience the Holiday Lights and Movie sites tour courtesy of On Location Tours. For 2 ½ hours starting out at The Shops at Columbus Circle, you are taken on a breathtaking tour of many of the prominent sights in Christmas movies.

Without giving too much away, I mentioned a couple of movies in the opening paragraph of this post that are highlighted throughout this tour. However, there are many others that will likely spark your interest and possibly bring back childhood memories of watching Christmas movies the night before Christmas!

Giveaway – WIN On Location Tour Tickets

Are you ready to experience New York City for yourselves? Here is your chance to sample a New York City movie tour of your choice! We are delighted to be partnering with On Location Tours to offer one lucky winner 2 tickets to one of these great tours!

Enter our giveaway below for a chance to win these great tickets. The holiday season is approaching and I highly recommend sampling New York City at this time of the year.

***The deadline for entries is Sunday, December 7 at 11:59PM Central Time.***

One winner will be chosen at random and notified shortly after the raffle has ended.
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Future of Flight – If It’s Not Boeing I’m Not Going

Chris Boothman

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Nov 18, 2014

15

Future of Flight – If It’s Not Boeing I’m Not Going

If you ever win the lottery and have a spare $300 million, I would highly recommend heading to Everett, Washington and visit the world’s largest building to feast your eyes on the variety of amazing works of art on offer. Located about 30 miles north of Seattle, Everett may not have been a particularly famous location around the world had it not been for one brand that has placed this town on the global market – Boeing!

Interested in learning more about the brand new 787 Dreamliner or perhaps you want to see just how the 747’s are constructed. All of this plus much more is available throughout the tour of Boeing’s factory and I have to say this is well worth the admission alone.

Heading to Seattle, visiting the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour was number 1 on my to-do list. I have a keen interest in aviation, not only because of my love of traveling but because of the cool engineering concepts that go into the design and manufacturing of planes.

If it’s not Boeing, I’m Not Going!

This is the slogan and philosophy that you hear throughout the neighborhood that plays home to Boeing’s manufacturing headquarters. The world of aviation is unlike many other industries as they really are only two primary, commercial airline providers – Boeing and Airbus. Well, after experiencing the Future of Flight Museum and taking the Boeing Factory tour, there will only be one brand on your mind and definitely with good reason.

Future of Flight Visitor Center

Approaching Everett from Seattle, the first thing that you notice is the vast space devoted to Boeing and the internal city that makes up this manufacturing behemoth. After parking outside the visitor center, we made our way inside and immediately noticed lockers near the entrance apparently for all of your technology goods.

Throughout the tour you cannot take any electronics with you including cameras, cell phones or anything similar. I would highly encourage you to leave them in your vehicle if you drive there or alternatively take advantage of one of these lockers. Don’t worry; there are plenty of opportunities for taking pictures later!

Tours are available throughout the day and depending on the time you arrive, this will determine whether you can explore the Future of Flight museum in the basement lobby of the visitor center prior to or after your tour. We opted to explore this later.

Touring the Boeing Factory

The moment the clock struck 2:30PM, we were first in line to start the tour of the Boeing factory. The tour actually starts in the visitor center with a short movie presenting a little history of Boeing and also some eye catching shots of Boeing’s newest designs in the aviation industry.

After hearing the typical rules and regulations and yet another reminder of no electronics, we are lead outside to our tour bus and the start of our 90-minute tour of the factory. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable, friendly and always willing to answer questions throughout the guided tour.

747 Product Line

A short drive outside of the Boeing plant leads you to the entrance of the manufacturing plant and the first stop on the tour is the 747-product line. The tour guide actually leads you under the plant into the tunnels that house all the networking, electricity cables and other ‘behind the scenes’ activities that ensure the Boeing factory runs smoothly on a day-to-day basis.

The magnitude of the factory in terms of size is really noticed here when you stare down the tunnel and can barely see the end! I already mentioned earlier the size of the factory was equivalent to around 75 football fields, but statistically speaking it is the world’s largest building by volume at 472,370,319 cubic feet and its footprint covers over 98 acres.

Heading up the elevator to the third floor you are immediately thrown into the manufacturing line of production and the impressive sight of the 747’s are right in front of your very eyes. As you learn about the various manufacturing phases in the production of Boeing’s largest plane, the 747-8 series, you can peer around the factory and note the size and scope of the crane systems used to maneuver these planes around.

I have always been impressed by Boeing’s 747 series, and watching this in production really put into perspective our long haul flight from Dallas to Brisbane on one of these avionic marvels.

A Clockwork Manufacturing Process

Everything in the process really does seem to work like clockwork! Whether the reality of this is as smooth as we are lead to believe, I’m not sure but given the size of these planes Boeing is clearly doing something right especially when you hear the volume of planes they are able to produce every year.

If you are interesting in reading about all the commercial airline news releases related to Boeing, I would highly recommend checking out Boeing’s website – it really does provide interesting reading!

The lean manufacturing concept is really emphasized here in Everett though I would suggest that Boeing takes this to the next level with the efficiency and overall effectiveness of their processes.

777/787 Product Line

The next stop on the tour takes visitors to the other end of the factory and the home of both the 777 and the all-new 787 Dreamliner series. The moving line production system is certainly evident with the 777-product line. The robotics and cranes that are used to move all of the parts into place is mesmerizing yet at the same time it puts into perspective how technological advancements have really helped this industry.

The highlight of this tour is saved until the end when you are introduced to the next generation design of the 787 Dreamliner. What makes this so different? The Dreamliner is made of composite materials including carbon fiber, which makes this a revolutionary design in comparison to anything previously manufactured by any aviation company.

Lightweight, robust and an overall smoother flight are all components that excite airlines and we are already seeing a variety of global buyers of the 787. I am convinced we will see many more airlines adding these to their fleets in the near future, simply because they offer the opportunity for reduced costs both for the airline and consumer.

I stood in the factory looking down at the final touches being added to a brand new Dreamliner apparently purchased by Turkish Airlines. It’s interesting to see on all the new planes being manufactured, a banner indicating the airline and a number representing how many of that series the airline has in their fleet. E.g. The Dreamliner was the first 787 in the fleet of Turkish Airlines.

Paine Field and Paint Hangars

After leaving the manufacturing plant, we are lead back to our tour bus and driven around the paint hangars along with gaining a better views of Paine Field, the runway that debuts many of these gorgeous planes for the first time.

Paine Field is a hub for test flights and of course test pilots of both Boeing and prospective airlines can frequently be seen here taking these aircraft around the Seattle region.

The Observation Deck

The culmination of the 90-minute tour leaves you in the gift shop and you can then head to the Future of Flight museum and the observation deck where you may be fortunate enough to see one of these new planes on one of their test flights.

Here is your opportunity to take as many pictures as you want! Looking over Paine Field to the variety of planes that are standing outside the hangars waiting patiently to be collected by their new owners is a really cool experience especially when you consider just how much money is standing on that tarmac.

You can also see the Dreamlifter which is a specially configured 747 designed to carry parts for the 787 Dreamliner.

Do you remember reading about the Dreamlifter landing and subsequently taking off from Wichita Airport in Kansas? If you are familiar with Wichita’s airport, you will be astounded that a beast the size of the Dreamlifter was able to get airborne from such a short runway but that’s the beauty of aviation and technology!

Future of Flight Museum

After exploring the magnitude that is the Boeing factory tour and seeing these amazing planes from the observation deck, you can spend some time exploring the Future of Flight museum. Here you can learn more about the engines that power these flying machines, powered both by Rolls Royce and GE.

Alternatively you can sit inside the cockpit of one of these planes or even design your very own plane that perhaps will one day become a future Boeing design.

Summary

During peak season, if you pre-purchase your tickets online, admission is $18 for adults and $12 for under 15’s. I can assure you that this will be the best money you spend while in Washington because this is an enjoyable, entertaining and exhilarating attraction.

The next time you step on a Boeing plane, think about all the intricate details that go into the design and manufacturing of this form of transportation. Maybe this will convince you that taking a trip to the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour is a great idea!

Disclaimer – We would like to thank the Future of Flight Museum for providing us with 2 complimentary tickets for this visit. The content of this post are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

Experience Puget Sound at the Seattle Aquarium

Chris Boothman

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Nov 13, 2014

5

Experience Puget Sound at the Seattle Aquarium

The state of Washington is a haven for wildlife especially around Puget Sound, which is an inlet of the Pacific Ocean. Of course there is nothing that compare to seeing the abundance of wildlife species in their natural habitat, but heading to the Seattle Aquarium on a dark, rainy day certainly gives a pretty close alternative. Everything from sea otters to a giant pacific octopus are on display here so I highly recommend heading here to expand your knowledge of the Pacific wildlife scene.

Aquariums – Good or Bad

Aquariums frequently come under a lot of criticism by conservationists due to claims that the animals are essentially being kept in captivity but I prefer to look at the alternative viewpoint, especially when you see the animals and for the most part they appear to be healthy and happy with their surroundings.

Conservation and Sustainability

The Seattle Aquarium have a variety of conservation initiatives focused on preserving and enhancing the marine environment not only in the Seattle region but also by showcasing the variety of exhibits to global visitors. The hope is that others will gain inspiration to develop similar initiatives in all corners of the world.

It’s not just about conservation though and the Seattle Aquarium also emphasizes the importance of sustainability. I am certainly a proponent of developing initiatives to help the marine eco-systems today but it’s imperative that we don’t do anything that may compromise future generations.

I love hearing that the Seattle Aquarium is committed to meeting these sustainability needs through the following four fundamental concepts (Seattle Aquarium.org, 2014):

Our mission, Inspiring Conservation of Our Marine Environment;
Our leadership in the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) to prompt all members to have an operational sustainability plan;
Committing to wise green practices that can reduce our utility expenses over time;
Sharing conservation practices that can be implemented at home by our visitors and community.

I think this really emphasizes their position on this important topic but rather than continuing to discuss the argument of whether aquariums are eco-friendly establishments, I would rather share our experience at the Seattle Aquarium and hopefully provide a clearer picture to support our judgment.

Admission and Lobby Area

The Seattle Aquarium is one of the attractions available if you purchase a Seattle CityPASS and I would again highly recommend considering this option if you want to see the aquarium along with other landmarks in Seattle. There was no line to enter the aquarium so this was a smooth process of simply showing the CityPASS, the customer service desk providing us with a map and off we went on a self-guided tour.

The lobby area has a huge glass window that is called the ‘Window on Washington Waters’ and contains a large variety of fish species among other marine life. It is a really spectacular opening to the tour and certainly puts you in the right frame of mind as you continue exploring.

I was really impressed by the ‘Crashing Waves’ exhibit that features a representation of ocean life with the replication of waves gushing through the wave tank. It’s cool to see how the school of fish react to the waves crashing through and this exhibit alone indicates how the Seattle Aquarium are going above and beyond to recreate the near natural environment for the marine life.

Underwater Dome

As you walk through the variety of exhibits showcasing some of Puget Sound’s finest fish species, one of the coolest experiences is the underwater dome. Head down a short tunnel before stepping into a 360-degree tank full of various species, including sharks so be on the lookout as one may be swimming directly above your head!

The underwater dome also has a bench that wraps around the perimeter so you can take your time by taking a seat and peering through the glass as the different marine life passes by. This was definitely one of the highlights of the Seattle Aquarium and is yet another reason that makes this stand out from other aquariums around the world.

The World of Seals and Otters

The Seattle Aquarium is home to a collection of mammals that provide an action-packed and memorable experience for all visitors. Both the seals and various otter species have mischievous characters that make them an ideal audience for visitors to the aquarium.

We spent almost an hour watching the otters scrambling around their exhibits and even though this is an outdoor exhibit there is enough cover to provide an enjoyable experience regardless of the weather.

There are various viewing spots for these animals and whether you prefer to perch in front of the glass windows to see these pesky mammals swimming or watch them from the seating area, I would highly recommend spending some time in this part of the aquarium.

It is certainly fitting that the seal and otter exhibits provide the conclusion to your tour around the aquarium because you leave with amazing memories of seeing these animals in action.

Summary

We have visited various aquariums over the last year but I have to say that the Seattle Aquarium is by far the best experience we have encountered. The animals all look happy in their environment and it’s clear that the main focus is on their welfare rather than providing a tourist attraction. Take some time to check out the Seattle Aquarium – the otters alone will make your visit worthwhile!

For more pictures of our trip to the Seattle Aquarium, check out our Seattle Photo Gallery.

Disclaimer – We would like to thank Visit Seattle for providing us with 2 CityPASS booklets for our trip. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.

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The Drive to Cades Cove

Cades Cove Scenic Loop

Cades Cove Buildings

Wildlife

Wild Bear Chase

Summary

Hiking the Trail

Black Bear Sightings

Laurel Falls

Summary

Cobalt Restaurant Location

Restaurant Experience

Meal 1 – The Appetizer

Meal 2 – The Oysters

Meal 3 – The Salad

Meal 4 – The Entrées

Meal 5 – The Desserts

Summary

Peninsula Golf Club

Historic Fort Morgan

Biking the Backcountry Trails

Summary

Brick and Spoon

Fiddlefish Seafood Cafe

Tacky Jack’s

Summary

Where is The Beach Club Resort and Spa

The Beach Club Resort and Spa Accommodations

Coast Restaurant

The Village Hideaway

Get Involved with Activities

Summary

1. FlyOver Canada

2. Stanley Park

3. BC Sports Hall of Fame

4. Chinatown

5. Gastown

6. Capilano Suspension Bridge

7. Vancouver Lookout

8. Queen Elizabeth Park

9. Granville Island

10. Museums

Who are On Location Tours?

Why use On Location Tours?

New York City On Location Movie Tours

Holiday Lights and Movie Sites Tour

Giveaway – WIN On Location Tour Tickets

Future of Flight Visitor Center

Touring the Boeing Factory

747 Product Line

A Clockwork Manufacturing Process

777/787 Product Line

Paine Field and Paint Hangars

The Observation Deck

Future of Flight Museum

Summary

Aquariums – Good or Bad

Conservation and Sustainability

Admission and Lobby Area

Underwater Dome

The World of Seals and Otters

Summary

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