Münster Aasee
It’s summer for just a few more days, so let’s hop over to northwestern Germany for the weekend to enjoy some time by the Münster Aasee. We’ll take some time to explore the quaint city of Münster later on, but for today let’s concentrate on the hotspot just off the city centre, the Aasee. Pronounced […]
St. Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge
Nestled a block south of Hyde Park, between Hyde Park Corner and Knightsbridge Tube stations, lies St. Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge. This hidden architectural gem is in the Victorian style and was consecrated as an Anglican church in 1843. Enter the church through a door in the tall tower, and you’ll be welcomed into an open, […]
Kensington Palace
We’ve visited Kensington Gardens before, to see the Albert Memorial and explore the museums on Exhibition Road. But we haven’t yet ventured to the far western end of the Gardens, which is where we go today to visit Kensington Palace. This royal residence has housed members of the British Royal Family since the 1600s and […]
High Tea of Highgate
It’s a rainy Monday here in London, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have some fun indoors! We’ve talked about afternoon tea before (remember those finger sandwiches and scones with jam?), so today we’re headed to a lovely little tea shop in north London’s Highgate Village. High Tea of Highgate (their website alone is worth a visit) […]
Abbey Church of Waltham Holy Cross and St. Lawrence
Today we’re driving to the northern edge of London, to Waltham Abbey in Essex. This town is the home of The Abbey Church of Waltham Holy Cross and St. Lawrence, more commonly known as Waltham Abbey (same as the town – who’d have thought?!). Architecturally, this is an incredible church: the current Norman-style structure dates from […]
“I’m Looking for a Safe House”
Life getting a little boring? Need a little mystery and intrigue? Then perhaps it’s time to head to Milwaukee. Yes, you heard right – Milwaukee, Wisconsin! Allegedly this Midwestern city serves as a secret refuge for spies engaging in covert operations. We had to find out if it’s true, so EntertainingYourself.com sent our ace undercover agent, KB, to see what she could discover. Daring. Audacious. White-knuckle. Claustrophobic. Not to mention – a really good burger. KB leaves no stone unturned in this gripping report.
All Aboard A Scenic Railroad
From recreational opportunities, to gourmet dining, to historical landmarks, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is truly a beautiful asset to Northeast Ohio. If you’ll be any where close to the area, you definitely need to add it to your “must do” list. If not, then come on board with Kerry who’ll take you along on her first visit through this timeless spot.
EY Travel Tips: London
Just because the Summer Olympics are over doesn’t mean you can’t find a million other ways of Entertaining Yourself in London! As Tammela prepares for her big move to this vibrant city, she offers a four day whirlwind walking tour that’s bound to satisfy both the eager sightseer and explorer within.
Over The Rainbow
“Go West Young Men” (and Women) – That seems to be a recent theme for several of the EY writers. Megan, Will, and now Martin are all settling (back) in on the West Coast, at least temporarily, that is.
So, does this Sunny Spot really hold the proverbial Pot of Gold? Time will tell for these three – for the rest of us, here’s looking forward to the new entertaining stories and tales it continues to inspire!
A Broad Abroad – Semester at Sea
Ben Affleck got his start on a 13 episode mini-series known as The Voyage of the Mimi; the Sprouse twins took classes on board the SS Tipton on The Suite Life on Deck. Did you watch these shows when you were younger? Semester at Sea is the real deal…classes on a cruise ship and the opportunity to travel around the world!
Road Trip West: The Wildfire (Part 4 of 4)
So Close and Yet So Far. It’s the final leg of the Road Trip West. There’s only about another hour and a half ’til LA. And the Heat Is ON…Literally! But driving through fire could be the least of it! With wildfires raging out west again this summer – it seems like the right time to finish this tale. Is there a happy ending in sight?
Road Trip West: The Grand Canyon (Part 3 of 4)
OK – Time for a recap…2000+ mile road trip from Minneapolis to Los Angeles…There’s me – Megan – 23 and “in charge.” Chris – the younger brother and newly 21. The capable and willing Ford Focus who thinks he can. And then there’s, the whiney, high maintenance problem child who weighs us all down: the 5’x8’ U-haul trailer packed full to the ceiling with all of my possessions, being pulled behind the car. So far, in only three days, we’ve made it through 7 states with only a couple more to go. Sounds like a perfect time for a side trip to the Grand Canyon.
Thank-you Cleveland!
SHOUT-OUT to our Cleveland Friends and Fans! Just want to say thanks for making the Premier of “Where Dream’s Don’t Fade” a fantastic success at the 36th International Cleveland Film Festival. The Cleveland Plain Dealer called the movie “poignant” and picked it out of a line up of about 300 movies to showcase. […]
Road Trip West: The Wigwam Motel (Part 2 of 4)
Continuing on their Road Trip West, Megan writes: “After Americana bliss in Emporia, Kansas, Chris and I continued south for our second day on the road, skirting through Oklahoma, and resting at last in scenic Amarillo, Texas. The following day, we made our way across New Mexico and into Arizona, where we checked into what is quite possibly the coolest motel of all time…”
Road Trip West – Introduction (Part 1 of 4)
Megan’s back – this time chronicling her move from her hometown in Minneapolis to Los Angeles. Can you say “ROAD TRIP!!!!!”? Considering that among her “cast of characters” are a Ford Focus and a U-haul trailer, it’s bound to be an adventure…or something like that…
EY Travel Tips: Shanghai
If you’ve made it as far as Mongolia – why not visit China? Granted it’s another 1384 miles, but depending on where you started, you’re in the neighborhood. And you’re a traveler of the world! So go for it! And if you do, Megan has penned her top 8 tips to make sure the visit is well worth your while! Of course, if you’re not quite ready to go the distance, this is another perfect EY opportunity for vicarious living!
EY Travel Tips: Krakow
From my experience, Poles are a no-nonsense bunch who can get frustrated with out-of-towners, especially given Krakow’s rising popularity as a tourist destination. With that in mind, don’t be afraid to assert yourself…they’ll respect you for it. Of course, manners count too, so don’t forget to say “dzienkuje” (thank you in Polish). And for you beer lovers out there, if you see a guy dressed as a beer mug – be sure to say Hi…
EY Travel Tips: Paris
Contemplating Paris? Then consider this: “It is much better to explore Paris than to tour it!” So claims our newest contributor, Betsey Horton as she explains how to unlock the city’s magic. Bienvenue!
EY Travel Tips: Berlin
Just returned from a week in Germany’s capital – hardly enough time to scratch the surface of all the city’s treasures. Where to go, what to see? There is something for everyone in Berlin and so much more than my meager tips offer. But follow any one of them and no doubt you’ll be off to a great start…
EY Travel Tips: Scotland
Consider a trip to Scotland: hikes along steely-blue lochs, green glens full of wee-wooly sheep, everyone talking like Sean Connery. For these features and so many others, the rugged land of the bagpipe and thistle grabbed a place among my three all-time favorite countries after one visit. Scotland boasts the United Kingdom’s highest mountain, the island’s most epic weather and…
EY Travel Tips: Ukraine
Travel Tips to the UKRAINE? Really? Tammela is ready to convince you that if it is not already on your Bucket List – it SHOULD be! From food to architecture to adventure – this place is sure to delight and amaze you! Find a cheap airfare to Kyiv, the capital and start from there…
EY Travel Tips: MONGOLIA
Why visit Mongolia?
According to Will, there are probably a million reasons. How about snow capped mountains? The Gobi Desert? Reindeer? Dinosaur Eggs? Sunshine? Need more? We’ve got ‘em… Make plans or live vicariously…
Will provides his own special travel tips based on first hand experience…
Where Dreams Don’t Fade
In the red-dirt highlands of western Kenya, 200 miles from the capital, Nairobi, rests the 4,000-person town of Iten. Remotely situated among the peaks and basins of the Great Rift Valley, the settlement’s 2,400-meter elevation and female mayor distinguish it from many Kenyan towns, but it’s truly extraordinary for another reason. Iten, as well as […]
Sunny Spot Travel Tips
EY is Celebrating Freedom! We’re introducing a new feature this month: Sunny Spot Travel Tips. What better way of experiencing independence and entertaining yourself than by traveling? So as many people celebrate their collective independence this month, we’re going to provide some enticing and useful tips for reveling in the freedom to travel the globe. Enjoy and if you are planning a trip to any of our sunny spots – send us a note and we’ll be happy to provide our insights!
Never Say Never!
The judging of our “Best Running Story in a Foreign Country Writing Contest” was particularly challenging due to the fact that we received several really great entries. Another judges’ favorite was this Running in Strasbourg story by EY Contributor, Will Kennedy. Will’s take on running gives new meaning to the phrase “Lost and Found” – reminding us that some resolutions are meant to be broken!
TRAVEL RULES – 101
The judging of our “Best Running Story in a Foreign Country Writing Contest” was particularly challenging due to the fact that we received several really great entries. Like our winner – Joe Schubert, EY Contributor Martin Mudry wrote about running in China. Jet lagged…altitude sickness…culture shock? He’s got the cure…
Highlands, Low Budget – Scotland Part IV
Swaying on the wire bridge above the stream flowing from Steall Falls down Glen Nevis—a lush valley outside the town of Fort William—the Scottish Highland’s fabled euphoria seized me. My state of mind approached tranquility. I contemplated the magnificent cascade and wide, birch-laden valley, almost oblivious of the icy water below. For a single moment, I was free of all thoughts about the cost of getting here. I had discovered the Wealth of Scotland…
Highlands, Low Budget – Scotland Part III
Swaying on the wire bridge above the stream flowing from Steall Falls down Glen Nevis—a lush valley outside the town of Fort William—the Scottish Highland’s fabled euphoria seized me. My state of mind approached tranquility. I contemplated the magnificent cascade and wide, birch-laden valley, almost oblivious of the icy water below. For a single moment, I was free of all thoughts about the cost of getting here. I had discovered the Wealth of Scotland…
Chance Encounters of a Good Kind
The judging of our “Best Running Story in a Foreign Country Writing Contest” was particularly challenging due to the fact that we received several really great entries. With the authors’ permission, we have selected a few for publication. This first story takes place in Sniatyn, Ukraine – a “Sunny Spot” in the non-literal sense, if ever there was one! Tammela Platt, our author, discovers that going for a run can open some very unexpected doors!
Highlands, Low Budget – Scotland Part II
Swaying on the wire bridge above the stream flowing from Steall Falls down Glen Nevis—a lush valley outside the town of Fort William—the Scottish Highland’s fabled euphoria seized me. My state of mind approached tranquility. I contemplated the magnificent cascade and wide, birch-laden valley, almost oblivious of the icy water below. For a single moment, I was free of all thoughts about the cost of getting here. I had discovered the Wealth of Scotland…
TIED FOR SECOND PLACE – RUNNING IN KRAKOW
“RUNNING FIVE POLISH MILES” – Heading East from Prague, you’ll reach Krakow, the setting for our other second place winner’s story. CONGRATULATIONS TO EY’S OWN MEGAN RITCHIE! For budget travelers, she makes a compelling case for Entertaining Yourself on a Run as an inexpensive and rewarding way to see the sights. All you need is to set a goal!
TIED FOR SECOND PLACE – RUNNING IN PRAGUE
“Run for the Czech Republic. Run for Yourself. Run for Free Beer.” CONGRATULATIONS TO ELI ZACH TERRIS, a graduating senior at Brandeis University in Boston. In Eli’s entertaining memoir, we find out that running in a foreign country is more than just a way to see the sites. It provides an immediate opportunity for cultural immersion!
Highlands, Low Budget — Scotland: Part I
Swaying on the wire bridge above the stream flowing from Steall Falls down Glen Nevis—a lush valley outside the town of Fort William—the Scottish Highland’s fabled euphoria seized me. My state of mind approached tranquility. I contemplated the magnificent cascade and wide, birch-laden valley, almost oblivious of the icy water below. For a single moment, I was free of all thoughts about the cost of getting here. I had discovered the Wealth of Scotland…
The Perfect Temperature or: Cravings in a Foreign Land
I’m in love, and his name is Sea Salt Latte. It’s a fairly simple equation: a sweet, creamy latte sprinkled with salt on top. Think sea salt caramels, but drinkable. Served at the perfect temperature everytime, they are UNREAL! But hold on a minute, I am getting ahead of myself here…
EntertainingYourself.com Writing Contest
SEEKING THE BEST RUNNING STORY IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY
EntertainingYourself.com is launching our FIRST EVER writing contest for Best Running Story in a Foreign Country and YOU are invited to enter! Deadline for contest entry: April 1, 2011. 1st Prize? A new pair of running shoes. Want the details, check out the full story – you are just a button click away!
Moscow: A Beginner’s Guide
Sam, standing statuesque in front of Sant Basil’s Cathedral, relishes the panoramic views in Red Square, while reflecting upon the mysterious and fascinating attractions that make Moscow a city like no other.
Reaching New Heights
EntertainingYourself.com writer Martin is off on an adventure in China! He’s traveling around the country on foot and via trains, boats, and buses to find the best views. Here he’s seen climbing his way to the top of Green Lotus Peak overlooking Yangshuo!
More pics of his adventures in China are being posted daily on EntertainingYourself.com’s facebook page. Check it out!
Sunny Spot: Cleveland, Ohio
SHOUT OUT to our fans in CLEVELAND, OHIO. This week you have the highest number of hits on the EntertainingYourself.com website. We LOVE it and we wanted to find out what’s happening in your town so we did a little digging. First – your weather for Wednesday, 12/22/10 – 32 degrees & partly SUNNY, partly cloudy, […]
Sunny Spot: MIDWEST, USA
SHOUT OUT to our fans in the MIDWEST, USA. First let us say that in the world of EntertainingYourself.com, a Sunny Spot is really a state of mind. Therefore, not every Sunny Spot is necessarily warm, or even sunny for that matter! In the Midwest this week, you are in the midst of a Winter Wonderland! Perfect for Entertaining Yourself indoors and out!
The View From The Top
Sometimes the magic in the view from the top is even more spectacular when you’ve pushed yourself to find it! We started out in a small village on top of the ridge, after hiding most of our luggage in the back of the 4-wheel drive Jeep. We then started our trek through the upper Dogon Village before heading off on a long dirt road into the desert heat of Mali.
Sunny Spot: Scottsdale, Arizona
SHOUT OUT to our fans in Scottsdale, Arizona. Thanks for checking out EntertainingYourself.com – now we want to check out what you’re up to. So far, it’s clear that you are a Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. #1 – SUNSHINE! For this first week of December you’ll be SUNNY (mostly) with temperatures in the 70’s. Nice! #2 – Amazing Parks. […]
Sunny Spot: Reston, VA
SHOUT OUT to our fans in Reston, Virginia. You’ve been loyal followers of EntertainingYourself.com website since we first went live. We LOVE it and wanted to find out what you’re up to there! Today’s weather (11/24/10): Sunny and 53 degrees. Perfect for the countless outdoor activities within and surrounding your community. Other Fun Facts: You […]
Sunny Spot: Cabot, Arkansas
SHOUT OUT to our fans in CABOT, ARKANSAS. This week you have the second highest number of hits on the EntertainingYourself.com website following Mountain View, California. We LOVE it and we wanted to find out what you’re up to there! Looks like GOLF is a favorite way of Entertaining Yourself! And you have the perfect weather for it today – Saturday, 11/20/10 – High of 63 degrees & partly SUNNY!
Sunny Spot: Mountain View, CA
SHOUT OUT to our fans in MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA. This week you have the highest number of hits on the EntertainingYourself.com website. We LOVE it and we wanted to find out what’s happening in your town so we did a little digging. First – your weather for Thursday, 11/18/10 – 65 degrees & […]
Hawk Camp: The Worst and Best of Times
I love camping – despite the fact it almost always involves some measure of discomfort, misery and danger, either real or imagined. And if you survive, those are all good things because camping pushes you out of your comfort zone, shows what you’re capable of and, hear me out…provided you keep your sense of humor […]
My First trip to Nairobi our capital city
I remember this day very well. After my final high school examinations in 2003, it was time for me to concentrate on my career as a middle distance runner. It was on the August 4, 2004 that the long awaited day finally arrived. I was told that I was going to join the athletics camp […]