16 Travel-Inspired Virtual Classes And Experiences To Check Out This Week

Last week, I was inspired by our VP Missy’s account of prepping for and enjoying an online cooking class with her husband and 7-year-old sons. She wrote about it in an email entitled “From Rome With Love: Take A Virtual Italian Cooking Class Without Leaving Your Kitchen,” which brings us to our first recommendation.

1. Nonna Live Cooking Classes

Italy

“We took a virtual Italian cooking class with Nonna Live,” Missy wrote. “Our instructor was in Italy, near Rome. We were in our kitchen in St. Louis, and while it was a bit tricky to ask questions, we can’t wait to do it again. Even my boys loved the results! We made gnocchi, but they also offer lasagna, fettuccine, ravioli, and cannelloni classes.”

I’ve been a sucker for gnocchi since I had my first plate of it at a bistro a few steps away from the Trevi Fountain. My husband and I also have all the ingredients we need to make gnocchi in our kitchen, so Nonna Live sounds like a good idea! That said, Missy told me Nonna sends along an Amazon shopping list in case you want to order the necessary ingredients for delivery.

Of course, with travel shut down and so many folks at home looking for new ways to connect, businesses and destinations large and small are making virtual classes and experiences available. Here are 15 more that have captured our attention and come recommended by travelers living all over the world.

2. &BEYOND’s WILDwatch Live Safaris

South Africa

A friend shared a link to luxury travel company &BEYOND’s livestreamed South African WILDwatch safaris a few weeks ago, and I followed them on Facebook and Instagram immediately. I have not been disappointed! In fact, the whole TravelAwaits team has enjoyed watching &BEYOND’s Facebook streams, which begin around 6 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Central African Time or midnight and 9:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. Guides take viewers around their Ngala and Djuma private game reserves.

The team has enjoyed watching baby elephants playing in a watering hole, I was struck by the beauty of a lilac breasted roller (a bird I’d never heard of before), and this morning, there was a large male giraffe sighting on one of the livestreams. The clarity of the Facebook video is astonishing (and the guides’ South African accents and senses of humor are delightful). Note that &BEYOND’s Facebook and Instagram livestreams take place concurrently, but they stream different views.

You can learn more about &BEYOND’s free WILDwatch Live experiences here.

3. Live From Hualalai

Hawaii

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai in Kailua-Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island is hosting a new series, Live From Hualalai, that invites folks to transport themselves to Hualalai for a few moments each week thanks to educational and interactive videos led by kumu (teachers), chefs, and entertainers who will share their crafts with viewers in real time. The series will run throughout April and May and aims to “bring Hualalai into the homes of ohana (family) around the world.”

Regional Director of Public Relations and Communications Morgan Suzuki shared the following Live From Hualalai schedule so you can plan accordingly:

Wednesday, April 15 at 9 a.m. HST: Erin Lee, Director of Landscaping, tours the resort’s herb garden and provides at-home gardening tips and tricks.
Tuesday, April 21 at 9:30 a.m. HST: Nicole Tachibana, marine biologist, hosts a fish circus at King’s Pond with the resort’s resident tropical fish.
Friday, April 24 at 10:30 a.m. HST: Kalai Carey, executive assistant to the general manager, reads Limu the Blue Turtle, a Hawaiian keiki (children’s) book that teaches an important lesson about being true to yourself.
Friday, May 1 at 10 a.m. HST: Ali’i Keanaaina and Kapu Hoapili, Cultural Center Mea Ho`okipa (hosts), play the ukulele and perform a hula in celebration of May Day.
Wednesday, May 6 at 12 p.m. HST: Executive chef Thomas Bellec hosts a cooking demonstration for salted local kanpachi from his home kitchen.
Wednesday, May 13 at 11 a.m. HST: Kelsey Makida, marine biologist, tours the resort’s on-site oyster pond at Punawai Lake.
Friday, May 15 at 7 p.m. HST: Live sunset viewing off the coast of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Follow the Four Seasons Hualalai on Facebook and/or Instagram to access the events.

4. Free Cooking Classes In The La Peetch Kitchen

France

Brittany Kulick of The Sweet Wanderlust told us, “La Peetch, Julia Child’s former vacation home in Provence, is offering free online cooking classes from inside her iconic pegboard kitchen. Past free classes included an EGGstravaganza for Easter and a lesson on how to use simple ingredients to make delicious meals.”

“A few years ago, I had the opportunity to stay at La Peetch for a week-long cooking class, where I learned how to flip an omelette, cook a whole fish, and cook recipe-free according to my tastebuds,” Brittany said. Now, she’s “enjoying the feeling of cooking in Provence while staying safe at home!”

La Peetch’s classes will be livestreamed on Facebook. The schedule can be accessed here.

5. Chile 360

Chile

Caitlin Martz of Turner Public Relations in Denver shared some suggestions of “amazing virtual travel experiences” in Chile, her favorite outdoor adventure destination. “While I can’t exactly leave my house and my neighborhood, it’s been a great escape to explore the vast open spaces like Torres del Paine and Atacama Desert, and there’s nothing like stargazing in the darkest skies in the world to make you feel humble.”

Her first recommendation: Chile 360, a free iPhone- and Android-compatible app that will allow you to “virtually explore wonders from the Torres del Paine National Park to the Atacama Desert to Easter Island, famed for archaeological sites such as nearly 900 monumental statues called moai.” Chile 360 invites you to “discover the wonders of a country that charms with its diverse geography and its lively people,” and it’s only a few clicks away.

6. European Southern Observatory Virtual Tours

Various Locations Worldwide

Caitlin reminded us that “Chile is home to some of the darkest skies on the planet, making it the home to a number of the world’s most imperative astronomical developments.” She pointed us to the free virtual tours of European Southern Observatory locations, which include the Llano de Chajnantor Observatory and the ESO Supernova Planetarium.

Caitlin said observing the stars has “been a great reminder to me that we’re all in this together, and we’ll get through it!” Inspired by Caitlin’s love of Chile? Read more on travel in Chile here.

6. SLR@Home

The Bahamas And Spain

Silver Linings Retreats, a London-based company founded by former British Royal Ballet dancer and personal trainer Chrissy Sundt, typically offers wellness programs at luxury resorts in the Bahamas and Spain. But as of April 9, Silver Linings has gone virtual. Thanks to teachable.com, Silver Linings’ newest initiative, SLR@Home, will allow people all over the world to participate in three- and five-day retreats from the comfort of their own homes, and at a fraction of the cost. The programs focus on yoga, high-energy movement classes, stretching, meditations, and workshops on mindful eating.

A portion of the retreat proceeds will benefit the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Response Fund. Note that the retreat activities are not live. Instead, they’re self-paced and can be done on your own time (with recommendations on best times of day to begin). You can learn more about Silver Lining’s “from the beach to your living room” programs here.

7. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort

Thailand

If you’re interested in animals, the livestreams from Anantara’s Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort in Chiang Rai, Thailand, might be the perfect virtual events for you. The resort livestreams twice daily as the rescued elephants eat, bathe, and play. TravelAwaits’ writer Melissa Klurman called her experience at Anantara, during which she had dinner with the elephants and stayed in a Jungle Bubble, an experience she’ll treasure for the rest of her life.

Read about her sleepover with elephants in Thailand’s Golden Triangle and like and follow the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant foundation on Facebook and/or Instagram to see the livestreams.

8. Duolingo Language Courses

30+ World Languages

Singer-songwriter Alissa Musto travels 11 months out of the year for work and has spent the majority of the year in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. She was supposed to be exploring Holland, Denmark, Russia, Estonia, Germany, Belgium, and Norway this spring as a guest entertainer for Holland America cruise lines and says she’s very fortunate to travel around the world with her music.

“For anyone who is passionate about traveling,” she told us, “I would highly recommend the Duolingo lanugage app. Even though my plans to visit the Netherlands have been canceled — I was planning on spending a few weeks there after my work assignment and celebrating my birthday with friends — I know that I will definitely visit one day and am looking forward to being able to go! However, in the meantime, I started learning Dutch on Duolingo and am able to read, write, and speak full sentences after only a few weeks. It’s making me even more excited about visiting Holland one day and will make the experience much better when I am able to go.”

Learn more about Duolingo and how to learn a language at home during your downtime here.

9. Interplanetary Art Club

Colorado Springs, Colorado

“America’s relaxation expert” Darrin Zeer invites people to participate in the Colorado Springs Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts’ Interplanetary Art Club every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. Mountain Time. “Plenty of folks gather and create art from all over the world. So gather your art supplies and hangout with like-minded travelers.”

Smokebrush describes the event, which is hosted on Zoom, as a gathering “connecting artists of all kinds from their studios, homes, basements, and yards — from around the city and around the world!” The foundation also hosts yoga and live music events. See its calendar and find links to all the Zoom events here.

10. Greece From Home

Greece

Lohith Kumar of BlinkVisa recommends Greece From Home, a site that curates live YouTube broadcasts, virtual tours, and more to “offer people from all over the world meaningful content from Greece.” It’s a beautiful site hosted by the Greek Ministry of Tourism, the Greek National Tourism Organization, and Marketing Greece with the support of Google. Take a boat trip to Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, learn how to make tzatziki sauce, take a yoga class filmed in Amorgos, listen to Greek music, and more.

And, if you’re particularly captivated by Greek beaches, spend some time appreciating the nine best beaches in Greece, from the Athens Riviera to Vai Beach on Crete.

11. London Theater

London

Australian Amanda O’Brien has been living in London for over 16 years and is the writer behind The Boutique Adventurer blog. She told us that while “theater in its traditional form is no longer an option, several London theaters are now premiering new shows weekly on their YouTube channels or streaming services. The shows are then generally available for one week after that. And the best thing is that many of them are completely free!”

She said highlights are The National Theatre, which is showing Jane Eyre, Treasure Island, and One Man, Two Guvnors on its YouTube channel, and The Royal Shakespeare Company, which is making shows available via Marquee TV.

“Before the show, why not go and have a drink at the pub?” she asked. She told us The Staying Inn’s website currently features “12 minutes of pub ambiance footage and audio — glasses clinking, chat — and you can even play it on a loop. All for free!” Just linger on the page and the video will begin.

“As a travel blogger, being at home is a big transition!” Amanda told us. “I am using this time to exercise daily, do loads of home cooking, binge-watch Netflix, and find the best virtual travel experiences to satiate my travel appetite!”

“My favorite place to travel is Italy, and it is where I plan to go first when travel is again allowed,” she said.

12. National Museum Of Anthropology

Mexico City

Rick Wallace, founder and CEO of Tackle Village, told us “visiting museums and galleries is a key part of getting to know a country and its culture. I love traveling in Mexico, but that’s off the agenda at the moment.”

“To help keep this great country top of mind during this isolation period, I have been visiting the National Museum of Anthropology — Museu Nacional de Antropologia — in Mexico City by virtual means. A collaboration between Google and the museum means visitors can view almost 150 objects from this world-class museum online, including the jade mask of Mayan king Pakal the Great.” Your National Museum of Anthropology tour begins here.

The virtual tour of Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza. — Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza

13. Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza

Madrid, Spain

“In keeping with the hispanic theme,” Rick went on to suggest Madrid’s Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza, which is also in what he called virtual tour mode. He told us, “The museum houses the second-largest private art collection in the world — after the British Royal Collection — and this is a great way to see masterpieces by Picasso, Dali, Rembrandt, and other giants of the art world online.”

This tour is 3D, so (on a PC or desktop computer) click and drag your mouse to look around, then select from the menu to navigate to different galleries.

14. iFit Global Workouts

Egypt And Elsewhere

If you’re feeling ready to move, and would be more motivated by doing so with the help of a guide and inspiration from stunning scenery, iFit’s Global Workouts could be worth checking out. The Egypt walking series, for example, is led by world-renowned Egyptologist Ramy Romany and consists of 14 distinct segments that take you to the Great Pyramids, Luxor Temple, and other sites. You can prop your smartphone on a treadmill, elliptical, or stair-stepper if you have one and manually adjust your speed and incline to match the workout. Or, if you have an iFit-enabled product, you can enjoy the automatic adjustments.

You can get a 30-day free iFit trial on your smartphone and that the app will be available for tablets soon. After the trial, iFit membership is $14.99 a month for individuals and $39.99 a month for a family plan.

Getting cooking advice from Velas Resorts. — Velas Resorts

15. Pantry-Inspired Cooking Advice From Velas Resorts

Mexico

In addition to its #BetterTogether campaign, which features crafting, exercise, and wellness tips, Velas Resorts’ 25 world-class chefs are working remotely to share recipes based on ingredients you already have in your kitchen through their What’s In Your Pantry? program. You can submit your ingredient list (or even a picture of your ingredients) here. The chefs will share recipes inspired by these submissions on Velas’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

16. California Dreaming Virtual Reality Meditations

California

Marian Gerlich of Placidi and Gerlich Communications told us, “I’ve traveled all my life for business and pleasure and discovered meditation a few years ago.” She’s spending more time meditating in isolation and has made a nice discovery: “a series of virtual reality travel meditations called California Dreaming that allow me to gaze at nature sites while meditating. There are seven 10-minute meditations hosted by yoga and meditation teachers Travis Eliot and Lauren Eckstrom. I love being able to meditate virtually in Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Big Sur, the beach, and elsewhere.” The California Dreaming series is available through Inner Dimension TV, a subscription platform.

“It’s a pleasure to meditate in destinations worldwide, especially while out in nature,” Marian said, “so it’s been stifling to just meditate at home. This series helps me expand my visual meditation field while lowering stress and easing anxiety.”

She told us an Inner Dimension subscription is $10 a month if paid annually or $15 per month if you pay monthly. “Since I’m also a yoga fan, I can also tap into the huge number of yoga programs offered on this site; there is something appropriate for every level.”

“As a traveler, my favorite destination is always the next place I plan to go,” Marian told us, “although I could return to Prague or Sicily tomorrow.” She had to cancel a trip to New Orleans with her book club and a three-week trip she had planned to Crete, Jerusalem, and Aman, Jordan. “My trip to Crete has now been reschedule to October — fingers crossed! And my book club is discussing new dates, although I expect it will be in 2021.” She said she’s still traveling virtually, and “daydreaming about travel daily!”

Tips For Enjoying Virtual Classes And Experiences

Participating in virtual classes and experiences can feel a bit awkward. You’ll have more fun if you keep these tips and distinctions in mind.

There are all kinds of virtual classes and experiences. Some are recorded ahead of time and available on demand. Others are livestreamed but not interactive, or allow you to type in questions (for example, on Facebook or Instagram) but not actually talk to the host or other participants. Then there are those that invite full participation, where you can talk to others and even share your own video. Classes and experiences hosted in real time tend to feel a bit more authentic, but they do necessitate marking your calendar and opening the right app or webpage on time.
This brings us to time zones. Virtual classes and experiences are being made available all over the world, and if you don’t pay attention to time zones, you might miss a live experience. Be sure to check on the time difference as soon as you know you want to participate in a virtual class or experience and mark your calendar accordingly.
Tech glitches happen. I participated in an amazing Zoom session led by author Sera Beak yesterday, but unfortunately she and her tech team were up against some unexpected issues. This meant participants had to spend a long time in the Zoom “waiting room.” I was glad I decided to wait it out, and Sera’s team did provide regular updates that let me know the event was still going to happen. If you’re confused about what’s going on, check websites, Facebook pages, and Instagram accounts, and, if you’ve registered for an event (note that not all events require registration), be sure to check all your email folders, including Promotions, Social, and even Spam, just in case an update’s come through that way.
Facebook and YouTube livestreams might be clearer than those hosted on Instagram. If I have the option (as in the case of &Beyond’s WILDwatch safaris), I typically opt for Facebook livestreams over those being hosted on Instagram. Likewise, odds are you’ll have a better experience on a laptop or desktop computer than on your smartphone. Depending on your tech setup, you can even hook your computer up to your big screen TV or open livestreaming apps or the internet on your television if you prefer a larger view.

Want more? Check out our roundup of 38 virtual tours and webcams you can enjoy from home any time.

Where To Find Incredible Views In Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa’s Mother City, has the distinct advantage of a superb natural setting. Not only is it surrounded by imposing mountains — some even in the city itself — but it also has a coastal location. Indeed, not that far from the city, the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet. Add to that not only one of the southernmost points of Africa, but also some great architecture from which to enjoy the surroundings, and you’ve got viewpoints galore.

But what makes a worthwhile view? Some viewpoints are designated by little signs on the main road, and others make themselves known, such as mountains or rooftop bars. Yet others, lower down, are more attractive for those who prefer beaches or other sights.

I found it quite difficult to narrow down my favorite views in Cape Town, but below you’ll find those that at the very least extracted a heavy sigh, a big smile, and an impressed “Oh, wow!” from me as I looked around. I hope you’ll agree.

Table Mountain

Let’s start with the most obvious. When in Cape Town — at least when in Cape Town for the first time — you can’t resist taking the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain. The cable car itself turns 360 degrees during the ride, so unlike in other gondolas where there are a few great seats, here everybody gets to appreciate the amazing views.

Once you’re on the mountain, you can see Cape Town sprawling below you as well as the surrounding mountains and the ocean. It’s a great way of getting your bearings; Cape Town can sometimes feel a little disconnected because of the mountains and bays. From Table Mountain, you can see nearly everything.

Pro Tip: Book your cable car ticket online beforehand to skip the queue.

Views in Cape Town. — Alexcpt photography / Shutterstock.com

Den Anker

Second to the view from Table Mountain is the perfect view of Table Mountain.

I kid you not — I spent 3 hours sitting on the terrace of Den Anker, a Belgian cafe in the V&A Waterfront development, watching the clouds fall down the side of Table Mountain. It’s a magical phenomenon called orographic lift, with clouds being pushed over one side and seemingly falling down the other side of the mountain but never reaching past a certain level.

This terrace is the perfect spot to linger over a glass of chilled rose and try your hand at time-lapse photography.

Pro Tip: Look out for the seals frolicking in the harbor basin right in front of you. They often form clumps, all holding one fin out of the water.

The rooftop bar at The Silo in Cape Town. — The Silo

The Silo Rooftop

The Silo, a super-chic hotel in a reimagined old concrete grain silo, boasts a rooftop bar that — quite literally — tops all others. The views of the harbor, Cape Town, and the V&A Waterfront all the way to Robben Island are unbeatable.

While most of the hotel is off-limits to those who aren’t guests, you are allowed to enjoy the view over a drink and snacks here as long as you book ahead. Or you could really treat yourself and stay a night or two. The rooms and suites are exceptionally gorgeous, and each one is unique. Maybe a special treat for a special occasion?

Pro Tip: The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa is in the same building.

Camps Bay

While the sunset views from the Silo Rooftop are amazing, for an even better sunset spot, head to Camps Bay. This suburb of Cape Town lies at the bottom of the Twelve Apostles, a mountain range headed by the impressive Lion’s Head mountain. Nestled alongside the sandy beach are plenty of restaurants and bars from which to enjoy a sunset dinner. With the mountains behind you and the sun sinking into the sea in front of you, you’re sure to get that utterly relaxing vacation feeling.

Pro Tip: Take an Uber for cheap and reliable transportation. You could also take Bus 107 from the city center, but be patient — it stops a lot along the way.

Cape Point

Cape Point, the tip of the Cape Peninsula, is really something special. You can reach it by hiking, or — rather easier on the knees — by funicular. You’ll need to climb additional steps to get to the lighthouse, from which the best views are to be had. The lighthouse was built too high to be of much use; it was frequently covered in clouds, so another one was built lower down.

From Cape Point, you can walk all the way to the Cape of Good Hope. Be sure to stop to snap a picture in front of the latitude marker.

Pro Tip: Ignore the baboons; they are cheeky and quite vicious. Instead, look out at the small rocky island off the coast — you’ll see seals bathing in the sunshine.

Chapman’s Peak Drive

A superb little road trip between Cape Town and False Bay is Chapman’s Peak Drive. Wedged between the ocean and the sheer mountain face, the road clings to the cliffs, and the views — for the passengers, not the driver — are simply spectacular. The ocean and the various bays open in front of you, and the thrill of the narrow road just adds to it. On a clear day, in season, you can even spot the odd whale, I have been told. It’s well worth hiring a car for a day.

Pro Tip: If you are only hiring a car for a day, then use this drive to get from Cape Town across the Cape Peninsula to Fish Hoek, Boulders Beach, and Cape Point.

Sir Lowry’s Pass

I saw the sign for Sir Lowry’s Pass from the main road between Cape Town and Hermanus, and I am so glad I stopped. You get plenty of great views across False Bay from the popular western side, where all the main attractions such as Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach, and Cape Point are located, but fewer from the quieter eastern side.

This mountain crossing on the eastern side lies several hundred meters above sea level, and the views across the bay and the land are breathtaking. When I visited, there was nobody else there (except the ubiquitous baboons), but it can get busy during peak season.

Pro Tip: Stop in Gordon’s Bay, a beautiful seaside town full of nice restaurants, for lunch.

Views of Cape town from Signal Hill. — Delpixel / Shutterstock

Signal Hill And Lion’s Head

This spread-out mountain, with its two ends forming a reclining lion, is a popular viewpoint, but it involves a bit of a trek. You can walk up Signal Hill or Lion’s Head. Both treks take roughly 90 minutes and involve a moderately strenuous incline, but the views across Cape Town and the bays are worth the effort.

If you take your time, the hike is perfectly achievable, even if you are not particularly fit. There are no facilities along the way, however, so you’ll need to remember to bring water and sun protection.

On Signal Hill, the Noon Gun goes off every day at 12 p.m. and can be heard across Cape Town.

Pro Tip: I have been warned by locals that, while Signal Hill is beautiful at sunset, it is not safe for tourists to be up there at night, so stick to a daytime visit.

For more on Cape Town, see this page.

How To Spend A Day In Auvers-Sur-Oise, France

Despite spending half of my childhood in Europe with an artist mother who loved sunflowers, I’d never heard of Auvers-sur-Oise, France, until 60 Minutes did a segment on it a few years ago.

With the heavy tick-tick-tick of a stopwatch kicking things off, the show’s Morley Safer wandered through the idyllic French town in connection with Van Gogh: The Life, a book that questions the generally accepted belief that the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter took his own life.

While the alternative version of the troubled artist’s demise was fascinating, I was absolutely mesmerized by the scenery. As the camera panned past the inspiration for more than 70 of van Gogh’s paintings — golden fields of wheat, darling French cottages surrounded by wildflowers, and the church topped with a clock — I decided right then and there that I would do whatever it took to visit Auvers-sur-Oise the next time I was in France.

Here’s what you need to know before planning a visit.

Rooftops of Auvers-sur-Oise, France. — Lisandro Luis Trarbach / Shutterstock

How To Get To Auvers-Sur-Oise

Home to just under 7,000 residents, Auvers-sur-Oise is located on the banks of the Oise River about an hour’s drive northwest of Paris. It’s an easy day trip from the City of Lights; you can get there by car by heading north on A115. Or, for about $10, you can get there by train in 1.5 hours.

If you visit Auvers-sur-Oise by car, you’ll likely end up parking in the first spot you find and walking around town, because the roads are very narrow and parking spaces are limited. After all, Auvers-sur-Oise is less of a tourist attraction and more of a village where French families go about their lives.

While there are rolling hills throughout the town, Auvers-sur-Oise is quite walkable. Some areas have cobblestone streets and sidewalks as well as stone stairs. While these walkways add to the charm of the French village, they can be a bit tricky to navigate if you’re not used to them. Be sure to wear sensible shoes like tennis shoes, flats, or sandals with straps rather than flip-flops. You’ll also want to be sure your shoes have adequate treads, since cobblestones can get slippery when wet.

What To Do In Auvers-Sur-Oise

Because the town is best known for inspiring 19th-century Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists like Cezanne, Pissarro, and van Gogh, it most appeals to art and history lovers. But it also provides a convenient respite from the hustle and bustle of Paris.

Here’s what to do during a visit.

The Auberge Ravoux in Auvers-sur-Oise. — Sage Scott

Visit The Auberge Ravoux

Start your day in Auvers-sur-Oise with a visit to the Auberge Ravoux. Located in the heart of town, this two-story stucco-and-wood inn is where Vincent van Gogh spent his final months. Now known as the Maison de Van Gogh, this French historic site features van Gogh’s table at the back of the dining room and is where the artist perished on July 29, 1890.

At the top of a small staircase is the small, empty, dimly lit room where the tormented artist spent his last summer on Earth. During his time in Auvers-sur-Oise, van Gogh completed 80 paintings in 70 days. But despite being recognized as one of the most famous and influential artists of his time, van Gogh only sold one painting during his lifetime. What an absolute tragedy!

Room number five at the Auberge Ravoux. — Sage Scott

Standing in room number five, where van Gogh spent his final days, is an emotional experience. As a longtime admirer of his work, I felt surrounded by both his genius and the heartbreaking disappointment and struggles that defined his life.

The Auvers-sur-Oise City Hall and a Van Gogh painting. — Sage Scott

Admire Van Gogh’s Inspiration

Starting at the Auberge Ravoux, explore the town of Auvers-sur-Oise to see the real-world buildings and landscapes that inspired the artist’s final works. Just across the street from the inn is the Mairie d’Auvers-sur-Oise (the Auvers-sur-Oise City Hall), which was painted by van Gogh in July of 1890. In more than 20 locations around town, large billboards of van Gogh’s works are prominently displayed in front of the scenes he painted.

Ile de France in Auvers, France. — Pack-Shot / Shutterstock

If you’re up for a 2-mile walking tour of the town, head west to the Chateau d’Auvers, where van Gogh captured the darkening silhouettes of two pear trees as the yellow sun started to slip below the horizon at the end of the day. And northeast of the Auberge Ravoux, be sure to stop by Ile de France, the church in Auvers that van Gogh captured in oil on canvas in June of 1890.

Stop At The Absinthe Museum

As you make your way east from the Chateau d’Auvers to the church, stop in at the Absinthe Museum to learn more about the green licorice-flavored drink that was all the rage among 19th-century painters, poets, and novelists like Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, Edgar Allan Poe, and, of course, Vincent van Gogh.

See More Impressionist Works At The Musee Daubigny

The 17th-century Colombieres Manor just north of Auberge Ravoux is now home to the Musee Daubigny. The museum focuses primarily on the work of Charles-Francois Daubigny, who is considered the first Impressionist painter and who influenced other artists like Monet and Cezanne.

The statue of Van Gogh in Parc Van Gogh. — Pack-Shot / Shutterstock

Enjoy The Parc Van Gogh

Continuing to wander eastward to the church, be sure to stroll through the small Parc Van Gogh and check out the statue of van Gogh. With his easel strapped to his back and a paint box slung over his shoulder, this larger-than-life bronze version of the famous artist has a haunted expression that captures what his time in Auvers-sur-Oise must have been like.

Tombstones of Vincent and Theo Van Gogh. — Sage Scott

Pay Your Respects To Vincent And Theo Van Gogh

Before leaving this charming French hamlet on the Oise River, stop by the Cimetiere d’Auvers-sur-Oise where brothers Vincent and Theo van Gogh are buried next to each other under a blanket of English ivy.

Shops and restaurants in Auvers-sur-Oise. — Pack-Shot / Shutterstock

Where To Eat In Auvers-Sur-Oise

Whether you are in a big city like Paris or a charming village like Auvers-sur-Oise, it’s hard to find a bad meal in France. While any cafe or restaurant is sure to be delicious, here are a few places to consider when you visit Auvers-sur-Oise.

Auberge Ravoux

It’s hard to beat the history and ambience that surrounds you at the Auberge Ravoux. Enjoy a delicious lunch or sip a glass of wine in the Ravoux’s dining room.

Boulangerie Des Aunaies

You can’t spend time in France and not enjoy the bakeries. The delicious smells wafting from this bakery on the west side of town drew us in for more croissants and cakes than we probably needed.

Other Establishments In Auvers-Sur-Oise

There are several other well-regarded cafes, pizza parlors, and restaurants along the main thoroughfare (Rue du General de Gaulle) and down the side streets in Auvers-sur-Oise.

Where To Shop In Auvers-Sur-Oise

In many small European towns, the shopping is clustered in the city center, which in Auvers-sur-Oise is the area of town near the train station, Auberge Ravoux, and the churches. Because this French hamlet is off the beaten path, you won’t find streets laden with souvenir shops. However, there are nice books, postcards, prints, and other van Gogh collectibles available at the Auberge Ravoux and at other boutiques in town.

Where To Stay In Auvers-Sur-Oise

Since Auvers-sur-Oise is so small, there are limited accommodations in town. If you plan to explore the town for longer than a day, consider a bed and breakfast like La Maison du Lac, which sits on the edge of a lake near the Oise River.

The green fields of Auvers-sur-Oise that inspired Van Gogh. — Joao Paulo V Tinoco / Shutterstock

What To Know Before You Go

As with Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny, about an hour west of Auvers-sur-Oise, visiting in the spring, summer, or fall is best. While the scenic landscape changes with the seasons, the setting is most beautiful outside of the dead of winter.

Because a day in Auvers-sur-Oise is largely all about Vincent van Gogh, you might want to watch Vincent & Theo, a movie about the relationship between Vincent and his younger brother, before you go. Or read Van Gogh: The Life, the work by Pulitzer Prize-winning authors Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith that informed me of this charming village in the first place.

England’s New Forest District: 8 Reasons To Visit

Located 90 miles from central London, the New Forest District of South West England boasts picturesque countryside, traditional villages, ancient woodlands, and scenic coastal routes.

The Forest, as the locals call it, was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror. Today, the New Forest National Park covers much of the district. The outstanding landscape is only one of the reasons to visit this area, however. Here are a few others.

A wooded trail in New Forest National Park. — Willy Barton / Shutterstock

1. You Can Enjoy Scenic Hiking And Biking

The New Forest is a lowland natural park with no large mountains and 145 square miles of crown land. Wide trails through ancient woodlands and heath offer countless opportunities for hiking and biking, activities that allow you to discover the Forest’s plants and wildlife.

More than 1,000 ancient trees have been recorded in the New Forest. It is believed to have the highest concentration of ancient trees in Western Europe and the most extensive heath remaining on the continent. You’ll find woodland flowers like foxgloves and bluebells; heather that bursts with purple color in August; marsh flowers; 15 varieties of orchids; and rare and endangered fungi. There are uncommon butterfly species, numerous birds, and five species of deer.

Forestry England lists several walks that are suitable for people of all ages and abilities. The New Forest National Park site also offers a list of walking routes that will take you through villages, woodlands, and country lanes. The park’s list of accessible walks without stiles is divided into three categories: for all, for many, and for some. The Forestry Commission maintains a number of marked trails at popular car parks across the New Forest.

There is also a cycle route network, and you can rent a bike at any number of locations around the New Forest. Because of the fragile nature of the landscape, off-road cycling is restricted to marked cycle routes. Take extra care near ponies and riders on horseback.

Stick to the marked trails. One can easily become disoriented in woodlands. Over half of the New Forest National Park is of national or international importance for conservation, so be respectful of that and leave the area undisturbed. Do not pick or remove any of the wildflowers you see.

Ponies grazing in the New Forest. — Henk Hennuin / Shutterstock

2. You’ll Get To Meet The New Forest Ponies

The New Forest is perhaps best known for its ponies. The ponies are no taller than 58 inches, and they’re usually brown, bay, or chestnut.

Although the ponies have lived in the New Forest for 2,000 years and roam freely, they are not completely wild. They are owned by local residents, who have the right to allow their ponies and cattle to graze in the open forest throughout the year. The constant grazing of the 5,000 ponies plays an important role in maintaining the landscape.

The ponies are beautiful, and you may be tempted to feed or pet them, but do not touch them. Feeding the ponies can cause them to expect that and lead to aggressive behavior. They may seem tame (one came right up to my husband on a village street), but they are semi-feral and can be unpredictable. Watch and photograph from a safe distance.

The village of Lymington in the New Forest. — Colin Burdett / Shutterstock

3. You’ll Love The Quaint Towns And Villages

The New Forest is dotted with picturesque towns and villages.

Beaulieu at the head of the tidal section of the Beaulieu River may be the most picturesque. Dating to the 13th century, the village retains a sense of history.

Lymington is a yachting haven with bustling cobblestone streets and Georgian buildings.

Brockenhurst is a pretty village with pubs, restaurants, tea rooms, and boutiques. Ponies and donkeys stroll the High Street.

Burley has also become popular with tourists because of the ponies and donkeys wandering its streets.

Lyndhurst, known as the capital of the Forest, has shops, pubs, and restaurants. It can get quite busy during the summer.

The car from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. — Sophie Leguil / Shutterstock

4. It’s Home To The National Motor Museum

At the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu (pronounced BEW-lee by locals), you can tour a palace, explore the ruins of a medieval abbey, stroll through beautiful gardens, and see more than 280 vehicles. Vehicles on display in the museum include classic family cars, motorcycles, buses, delivery vans, and Grand Prix racers. The oldest vehicle dates to 1875. There is also a recreated 1930s garage full of vehicles from that era.

The land on which the estate now stands was once a royal hunting lodge and later a Cistercian abbey. Today, the abbey is a peaceful ruin. The Palace House, at one time the gatehouse of the abbey, has been in the Montagu family since 1538. The house has been restored to what it would have been like in Victorian times. Guides dressed in Victorian costumes lead you through the stately home.

The grounds around the house and museum contain serene gardens. Footpaths allow you to walk through a wilderness garden, a flower garden, and a kitchen garden and past ancient oaks along the river.

5. You Can Tour An 18th-Century Shipbuilding Village

Buckler’s Hard on the banks of the Beaulieu River was once a thriving shipbuilding village where the ships for Admiral Horatio Nelson’s fleet were built.

Today it is a quiet, peaceful spot. River cruises sail from the area from Easter through September. Visit the Maritime Museum to learn how the warships were built and see how villagers would have lived and worked in the early 1800s. Take a step back in time at the reconstructed Shipwright’s Cottage.

The Exbury Gardens in the New Forest. — Amanda JE Alexander / Shutterstock

6. The Exbury Gardens Are Lovely

The Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, owned by the Rothschild family, is a 200-acre woodland garden. It was the brainchild of Lionel Nathan de Rothschild, who started developing the garden after buying the estate in 1919. Development stopped during World War II, and Rothschild died in 1942. After the war, his son began restoring the gardens and later opened them to the public. The gardens are now open from mid-May through October.

The area is known for its rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and rare trees and shrubs. A narrow-gauge steam railway meanders through parts of the garden, including the Summer Lane Garden, which is not accessible by foot. The train is wheelchair accessible.

7. The Markets Offer Great Shopping

At the New Forest’s weekly town markets, you can shop — or simply browse — for a variety of goods, including fruit and vegetables, clothing, and local crafts.

The Lymington Charter Market is the largest and busiest market in the New Forest. More than 100 stalls along High Street sell general household products, produce, bric-a-brac, and locally made and artisan products. Note that there is no parking on High Street during market days. You will need to use one of the town’s car parks.

Other markets occur on Tuesdays in Hythe and on Wednesdays in New Milton and Ringwood.

8. The Local Fare Is Mouthwatering

Restaurants, pubs, cafes, and tearooms throughout the New Forest offer local produce, locally sourced game, and freshly caught fish. Restaurants range from relaxed cafes to fine-dining establishments like the award-winning Montagu Arms and Chewton Glen, which offer five-star dining and demonstrations by celebrity chefs.

New Forest pubs offer local ales as well as delicious meals. Some of the pubs are more than 500 years old! Many are located in lovely countryside locations, are family friendly, and have garden areas. The Trusty Servant in the center of Minstead serves up home-cooked meals. Ponies and donkeys walk by the door of the 18th-century New Forest Inn in Lyndhurst.

Ringwood Brewery offers 2-hour tours. Its ales are available at many pubs and shops in the area as well as at the brewery itself. New Forest Cider in Burley sells unpasteurized real cider straight from the barrels.

There are many tea rooms throughout the New Forest that offer casual meals or traditional afternoon teas. For a special treat, try the elegant afternoon tea at the luxurious Rhinefield House, a manor house dating to the 1880s and set on 40 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.

What To Know Before You Go

There is regular bus service around New Forest National Park, as well as a hop-on, hop-off tour bus that operates during the summer months and eight rail stations, but the best way to explore the region is by car. Be careful when driving, and watch for animals wandering through villages or crossing roads. The ponies have the right of way.

The Go New Forest Card, which can be purchased for £10, provides discounts at many New Forest attractions, businesses, and restaurants.

While there are more than enough attractions listed on tourist sites to make your New Forest vacation a delight, locals may be aware of less-publicized walks and landscapes that could become highlights of your visit. Talk to the locals in the pubs and at bed and breakfasts to get their recommendations.

Alexandria, VA Weekend Getaway: Where To Eat, Stay, And Play

Quintessential Southern charm and hospitality await you in Alexandria, VA. Beautiful brick sidewalks under your feet and glass-front brownstones lining the way provide a glimpse into 18th-century architecture in a city that is ripe with historical significance coupled with modern-day appeal. Offering a diverse restaurant culture and unique one-of-a-kind boutiques, your Alexandria weekend getaway will be a respite from the hustle and bustle of the weekday treadmill.

Whether you choose to stay in Alexandria during your D.C.-area vacation or go specifically to experience the historic beauty of Old Town Alexandria, your adventure will be inspiring, restorative, and informative.

Things To Do In Alexandria

The Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria. — Rob Crandall / Shutterstock

Explore The Torpedo Factory Art Center

The Torpedo Factory Art Center on the Potomac River is home to seven shared galleries and 82 artists’ studios. Built in 1918, the factory produced Mark III and Mark XIV torpedos; the latter were used in WWII.

The galleries and studios share the space with historic tableaux that detail the history of the original torpedo factory. Galleries include the Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery, the Multiple Exposures Gallery, and the Printmakers Gallery among others. The open studio concept allows you to watch artisans at work in their creative spaces.

A visit to the Torpedo Factory Art Center should be on everyone’s list. Whether you are interested in the makers’ movement or are a history buff, the three floors of galleries and studios offer lots to explore.

Hours can vary due to the scheduling of private functions. Be sure to check the website for the current schedule.

George Washington's Mount Vernon home in Alexandria. — John M. Chase / Shutterstock

Journey Through Time At Mount Vernon

George Washington’s Mount Vernon home is a peek into 18th-century plantation life. Boasting 21 rooms and a panoramic view of the Potomac, Mount Vernon is a lovingly maintained piece of American history. The rooms house historical and replicated pieces that transport the visitor back to the origin of our nation. The four gardens allow the visitors to wander the property while enjoying the lovely vistas created by the lush plantings. Be sure to stop and enjoy the Upper Garden and greenhouse.

Touring the mansion and gardens in person is a treat for history and art buffs. You can visit virtually with their online tour, too. Although it is not like being there, the virtual tour is a fun way to get a head start on your visit.

Plan to have lunch at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant. Dine on Southern classics like skillet cornbread, peanut and chestnut soup, and turkey pies in the classically rustic restaurant.

Experience A Tall Ship Sail On The Potomac

A new arrival for 2020 is the tall ship Providence. A reproduction of John Paul Jones’ command, the Providence will offer themed Potomac River cruises. Planned outings include family pirate and adult-only pirate cruises during which you’re invited to dress in appropriate seafaring garb. Additionally, craft beer and wine tasting cruises will allow you to enjoy the sites of the riverbanks while experiencing some of Virginia’s local libations.

The King Street Trolly in Alexandria. — RaksyBH / Shutterstock

Ride The King Street Trolly

Take a ride down King Street on the King Street Trolly. Park near the Old Town Metrorail Station and hop on the free trolley that runs down King Street to the waterfront. The trolley stops every two blocks, so it’s perfect to hop on and hop off as you make your way through Old Town. Street parking in Old Town can be difficult to find, making the trolley very appealing.

The general schedule is Sunday through Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 12 midnight. Be sure to verify the schedule online or with the trolley driver so you don’t miss the last run.

The U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C. — Orhan Cam / Shutterstock

See The Sites In Washington, D.C.

Alexandria’s location close to the metro D.C. area makes it the perfect jumping-off spot to visit our capital city. Leave your car behind — driving and parking in D.C. are a nightmare — and use one of these transportation options to get into the city instead.

The Metro is about a 20-minute subway ride from Alexandria. It offers multiple stop options, is easy to navigate, and is inexpensive at about $3 per person each way. There is also the Metrobus that takes about 45 minutes. This option allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way.

The best way to see D.C. is by private tour. When you visit with a private driver, you ensure that you see everything on your list with the ease of a car ready to whisk you off to your next venue. With door-to-door service, like this option offered by Concierge Tours, you can have a unique, personalized visit to Washington, D.C., that will make your capital city experience uniquely special.

Eating In Old Town Alexandria

There is no shortage of Old Town Alexandria restaurants. Your options include quiet, tucked-away bistros, sumptuous seafood fair, bustling boisterous pubs, and exquisite fine dining. Old Town offers dining for every culinary mood and desire.

Bistro Sancerre

Elegant dining and an extensive wine list are the hallmarks of fine French cuisine. Bistro Sancerre offers a menu for the discerning diner. White tablecloths, snappy waitstaff, and traditional decor set the mood for a special dining experience.

Start with an expertly prepared appetizer like baked brie with kumquat marmalade. For your entree, consider a modernized classic: Coquilles St. Jacques paired with a spectacular French wine. The dessert selection is a vision of delicate French confections.

Taverna Cretekou

When you walk through the front door of Taverna Cretekou, you are met by charming Mediterranian decor and amazing aromas. Ask for a seat on the patio for a secret garden dining experience.

You will be instantly transported to the Greek Islands by this restaurant’s perfectly cooked cuisine. Start with a Mezedes sampler of tarama, tzatziki, and dolmades. Consider Exohikon for your main course; it’s a baked filo stuffed with lamb, cheeses, artichokes, and other savory goodies. You must include a chilled ouzo for an authentic Greek experience.

Chart House

The Chart House is the quintessential waterfront restaurant, offering gorgeous seafood dishes and al fresco dining. With modern seaside decor wrapped in an upscale casual atmosphere, your visit to the Chart House will leave you visually and culinarily satisfied.

Dine with front-row views of the Potomac River, starting with the crab cake and avocado-corn relish. Follow with a main dish of mahi bathed in a peanut sauce and mango sticky rice. Your taste buds will be doing a happy dance.

Shops along King Street in Alexandria. — Albert Pego / Shutterstock

Shopping In Alexandria

Antique brownstones with one-of-a-kind ground floor shops line King Street. Brick paved sidewalks and turn-of-the-century emporiums set the tone for your shopping experience. No big box stores and very few designer outlets are found in Old Town. The focus is on independent shops run by local entrepreneurs who embody the makers’ movement and Old Town charm.

With items made exclusively by American artists, Imagine Artwear displays clothing, jewelry, and other finely crafted goodies. If you are looking for a wearable souvenir, make sure to stop at Imagine Artwear. By supporting local artisans, you are contributing to the preservation of Old Town’s heart and soul.

Do you love to hunt for a bargain? Visit Mint Condition, a designer consignment boutique where you may stumble on Channel, Rag and Bone, Pulitzer, and other high-end designers. It’s worth a peek in the shop; you may find the perfect item you didn’t know you were missing.

A room at the Kimpton Lorien Hotel and Spa. — LorienHotelAndSpa.com

Places To Stay In Alexandria

There are many unique hotels in Alexandria along with the plethora of high-end and mid-range traditional chains. It will be hard to choose, but your Alexandria weekend getaway stay can be historic, relaxing, and charming.

Luxury In The Middle Of Everything

Stay right in the middle of Old Town at the Kimpton Lorien Hotel and Spa, a luxury hotel with a chic European vibe. It is the perfect place to lay your head after a day of touring metro D.C. and Old Town.

Stay At George Washington’s Home

The former home of George Washington, The George of Old Town, will charm history buffs and antique lovers alike. With eight suites named after presidents, the elegance and charm of this unique hotel await your arrival. With the option to rent out all eight suites, it would be a sensational spot for a family reunion.

Airbnb In The Center Of Old Town

Airbnb offers unique homestays and the Eisenhower, an Airbnb Plus rental, is a good choice. It offers a well-appointed, modern apartment in the heart of Old Town. A shared rooftop deck is part of the package and is the perfect place for sipping your morning coffee as you watch the neighborhood come to life.

Pro Travel Tip

Driving and parking on the weekends is congested. Avoid the frustration of navigating your car by utilizing the many alternative transportation options. Leave your car at your hotel, walk the tree-lined streets, and settle into a pedestrian state of mind.

Your Alexandria, VA, weekend getaway will be a memory you can cherish forever.

The Best Things To Do On San Diego Bay

A highlight of any visit to San Diego is spending time on San Diego Bay. The sparkling waters of this California coastal city bay are defined by an embarcadero, a charming island, a peninsula, and a graceful bridge.

On a visit to the area, you can choose from activities ranging from relaxing on the waterfront to hopping aboard a tour ship for a cruise. Here are some of the best things to do on San Diego Bay.

The Point Loma Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument. — Sharon Odegaard

Tour The Old Point Loma Lighthouse

On the peninsula known as Point Loma, you can take in views of the bay from high atop a windswept hill. You can also tour a neat lighthouse that operated in the 1800s. The fog here was so dense that the light was often invisible, so a new lighthouse was built on the shore.

Today, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is open to the public. Climb the circular stairway and see how the lightkeeper and his family lived in the restored rooms. Then hike down the hillside path for more spectacular scenery. A walk to the lighthouse takes about 30 minutes there and back and isn’t strenuous.

The explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo landed on the peninsula in 1542; he was the first European to set foot on the West Coast of the United States. A visitor center near the lighthouse shows a film about Cabrillo and the natural habitat of Point Loma. The biggest tourist draw is the large viewing area under the statue of Cabrillo. From here, you can see the Naval Air Station North Island and watch sailboats glide peacefully through the deep blue water.

Pro Tip: After touring the lighthouse area, drive down the ocean side of the peninsula if you have time. This is where the working lighthouse sits. Drive beyond that a little ways, and you will come to the tidepools. The ocean waves crash against the rocks, and sea creatures inhabit the crags.

The Embarcadero on San Diego Bay. — Sharon Odegaard

Stroll Along The Embarcadero

Stroll along the waterfront of the Embarcadero for a free, pleasant time enjoying the sights of San Diego Bay. Highlights include the USS Midway, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, the World War II statue Unconditional Surrender, and Seaport Village. The area extends in both directions from the intersection of Broadway and Harbor Drive.

The Embarcadero includes the San Diego County Waterfront Park. Here you can spread out a blanket and picnic on the lawn. If the grandkids are with you, they can romp on the creative playground and play in the splash fountains.

The USS Midway Museum on San Diego Bay. — Sharon Odegaard

Visit The USS Midway Museum

Across the water from Point Loma, the retired aircraft carrier USS Midway is docked and open as a museum. The Midway was commissioned in September of 1945 and was active until 1991, making it the longest-serving carrier in U.S. history. When commissioned, it was the largest ship in the world, at 1,000 feet long. Today, it appears as it did on its last journey. You’ll feel like you’re about to set sail!

This massive “City at Sea” contains 10 acres of exhibits and displays. Enter on the Hangar Deck and climb ladders and stairs to explore the ship’s many levels. On top is the “Island,” where the captain steered the ship. The lowest level is below the waterline among a nest of pipes that fed the boiler. If you are not able to handle the ladders, elevators and ramps are available in several areas of the ship.

Be sure to go outside to the Flight Deck, which features 26 restored aircraft. You’ll see jet fighters, attack aircraft, and helicopters.

Adult tickets cost $26, and senior tickets cost $22. Both private and group tours are available.

The writer at Seaport Village on San Diego Bay. — Sharon Odegaard

Explore Seaport Village

More than 30 years ago, Seaport Village opened, with its shops and restaurants and cobblestone paths. It borders the water, so you’ll see boats of all kinds going by. Browse the stores offering kites, hammocks, and homemade fudge. A classic carousel delights kids of all ages. And the ice cream cones make a welcome snack on a warm day.

Pro Tip: If it’s a nice day, you can buy a fancy kite at a Seaport Village store and then fly it in the breeze on the lawn outside. This grassy area is also perfect for a picnic.

A San Diego Harbor Cruise boat. — Sharon Odegaard

Take A Harbor Cruise

If you want to get out on the water, take a San Diego Harbor Cruise, a 2-hour ride that will take you the length of San Diego Bay. The live narration points out sights along the shoreline, such as the latest Navy ships, seals sunning on a floating platform, Seaport Village, and Coronado Island. Chugging out into the bay in the shadow of the Midway is worth it all on its own.

The cruise costs $33 per person.

Pro Tip: I was reluctant to go on the cruise because I often experience motion sickness. When I received tickets as a gift, I tried it, and I was fine. This is a smooth ride on a sheltered body of water. So don’t let fear of seasickness keep you from going!

Visit The Maritime Museum Of San Diego

The Maritime Museum of San Diego restores, maintains, and operates historic vessels. The collection of ships and the exhibits are open daily for exploring. The best-known ship is the Star of India, the world’s oldest active ship. Built in 1863, this iron sailing ship was an experiment in the days of wooden vessels. She’s still functional today. Her voyages included 21 trips from London to New Zealand, some of them lasting up to a year.

Other vessels at the Maritime Museum include the HMS Surprise, which starred in the movie Master and Commander. Filmmakers recreated a 24-gun frigate specific to Great Britain’s Nelson-era Royal Navy. The result was this historically accurate replica.

You can also tour a steam-powered ferry and a Russian submarine.

Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for seniors.

The Ferry Landing at Coronado Island. — Sharon Odegaard

Bike The Ferry Landing At Coronado

A ferry crosses San Diego Bay from the downtown area to Coronado Island. The Ferry Landing is a bustling area of shops, restaurants, lawns, and a beach. From the Ferry Landing, you can rent bicycles and surreys. The paved paths make for an easy, flat ride. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

If you’d like to ride the ferry, catch the boat either at the Broadway Pier at the 5th Avenue Landing or at the Coronado Ferry Landing. Ferries leave once an hour, and a one-way trip costs $5.

Eating And Drinking On San Diego Bay

San Diego boasts lots of tantalizing cuisine. Due to its location on the water and proximity to Mexico, you’ll find many seafood and Mexican restaurants. Here are a few of my favorite spots in the San Diego Bay area.

Island Prime

This is my favorite San Diego Bay restaurant. Island Prime’s large windows offer fantastic views of downtown and the water, and the food is simply amazing. I recommend the scallops, which come with piping hot puff-pastry rolls. For dessert, share an enormous slice of mud pie with your travel companion.

Peohe’s

At Peohe’s, sit overlooking the water and gaze at the downtown skyline while enjoying fresh seafood and sushi. On a sunny day, you can sit outside on the deck. This is one of my go-to restaurants for birthday celebrations.

Harbor House

Harbor House offers elegant waterfront dining. Seafood is the specialty, and the steak and chicken dishes are also delicious.

Coasterra

Coasterra offers Mexican food and bay views in an upscale atmosphere. The servers prepare guacamole from scratch at your table, and then deliver dinners such as fish tacos, carne asada, or roasted squash tamales.

Margarita’s Kitchen And Cantina

For a more casual dining experience, head to Margarita’s Kitchen and Cantina in Seaport Village. Here you can dig into a plate of delicious Mexican food and sip a specialty margarita.

Pro Tip: For any of the more formal restaurants, it’s best to make a reservation. Some of the popular seafood restaurants fill up days in advance. Be sure to call ahead or make an online reservation to avoid disappointment.

Seaport Village views on San Diego Bay. — Sharon Odegaard

When you come to San Diego and head to the bay, you have so many options for fresh-air activities, historic exploration, and lovely views. Your main problem will be choosing where to spend your time. You will likely find yourself planning a return trip to San Diego Bay.

For more on San Diego, see this page.