7 Reasons To Visit Hawaii’s Bishop Museum

There are so many terrific reasons to go to Hawaii. It boasts incredible beaches with sand in a variety of shades ranging from black to white and even green. The snorkeling and diving are glorious, with a wide array of sea creatures regularly on display under the water. In some parts of the island chain, you can go from tropical paradise to mountain snow in a single day! And then there’s the infectious spirit of aloha that shines through it all.

Hawaii’s outdoor scenery tends to take center stage for vacationers, and for good reason. However, if you’re staying on Oahu, there is a wonderful museum you should really take the time to visit.

The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, also known as the Hawaii State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, examines the culture and lasting legacy of Hawaii’s first people. It houses millions of artifacts along with other terrific exhibits focusing on Hawaii’s natural history.

We had zero regrets spending some time at the Bishop and away from the beach. Here are a few reasons you should consider a stop there during your own island adventure.

1. Both The Building And Grounds Are Beautiful

Back in 1888, Charles Reed Bishop established the museum in memory of his wife, the late Princess Bernice, who was the last member of the Kamehameha dynasty (more on them in a bit). Bishop designed and built the gorgeous museum, famed for its spacious halls and stonework, as a place to display and protect his wife’s ancestral heirlooms, along with other Hawaiian treasures and objects.

Walking through the expansive halls, with their rich woodwork and multiple floors, makes you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to an amazing old-world library. The surrounding gardens are equally stunning and also worthy of your attention, featuring native Hawaiian plants and landscapes. Museum staffers offer an hour-long garden tour each day, and it’s free with your museum admission — check it out!

2. It’s A Great Introduction To Hawaiian Culture

If you’ve ever wondered about the culture and customs of Hawaii’s first people, the Bishop is the place to go. There are a variety of artifacts and displays in the main galleries, expertly arranged so that visitors can get a holistic glimpse of early island life.

The Hawaiian Hall focuses on Hawaiian gods, legends, and beliefs in pre-contact Hawaii, as well as how its people lived, worked, and played. The Bishop’s Pacific Hall explores the cultural treasures and migration patterns of the Pacific people throughout Oceania. Both are packed full of wonders, and you’ll walk away with a new appreciation of life in Hawaii’s earliest days.

3. You Can Follow In The Footsteps Of The Wayfinders

If you’ve ever wondered how the first Hawaiians reached the island paradise from Polynesia, head to the Bishop’s J. Watumull Planetarium to get a hands-on sailing lesson! The 25-minute fully immersive Wayfinders program allows visitors to simulate travels in a voyaging canoe and delves into the craft of night-sky navigation.

The experience will cost you an extra $2.95, but you’ll gain a deeper understanding of just how difficult it was for Hawaii’s intrepid first people to reach its shores. They used only the stars — and their keen sense of navigation — to find the way.

4. You Can Learn About Hawaii’s Royal Families

The history of Hawaii’s royal families is both fascinating and fraught with tragedy.

For nearly a hundred years, the Kamehameha dynasty ruled Hawaii and united the islands into a single nation. A stroll through the Bishop’s Kahili Room helps bring the stories of these leaders to life, both with portraits and artifacts. You’ll also learn about monarchs from the Kalakaua family, who reigned after the House of Kamehameha died out.

We were awestruck by the magnificent kahili, or feather staffs, associated with the royal family and used during formal occasions. There are also personal effects of the kings and queens on display.

By considering the stories of these families, you can better understand the present, complicated history of the 50th state.

5. You Can Explore Hawaii’s Ever-Changing Environment

To take a deeper dive into Hawaii’s incredible biodiversity and the environmental factors that continue to shape the island chain, make sure to take time to visit the Bishop’s Richard T. Mamiya Science Adventure Center. Set slightly away from the main halls, the hands-on exhibits focus on the forces — including volcanoes and the Pacific Ocean — that affect these beloved islands.

Don’t miss the daily lava show, at which you can see firsthand how lava forms and watch it flow in its molten state from a brass furnace. You couldn’t get any closer to the process, even if you’ve got a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park planned!

6. You’ll Gain An Appreciation For Hawaii’s Surfing Culture

Surfing is an important part of Hawaiian culture, and at the Bishop, you can get a crash course on the sport without even getting wet.

Surfers have been testing and riding the waves for generations in Hawaii, and until May 2020, a special exhibit at the Bishop will introduce visitors to the sport. It includes vintage boards, old photos, and even a computer simulator so that you can give the sport a virtual try. Exhibits on surfing legends are also on display.

Strolling through the exhibit is a terrific way to better understand why Hawaii and surfing will be forever intertwined.

7. The Daily Programs And Presentations Are Terrific

While the offerings and programs vary at the Bishop, they always include something fascinating pertaining to Hawaiian life and culture (and are included in the price of your general admission!). From lei-making to surfboard shaping to carving and craft demonstrations, they are well worth checking out. The museum occasionally hosts after-hours events as well.

See what’s on offer daily on the Bishop’s event page.

What To Know Before You Go

The Bishop is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and adult admission costs $24.95. The museum is located near downtown Honolulu and is easily accessible by car, Uber, or bus. Keep in mind that the campus consists of several buildings, so you’ll get some walking in, especially if you opt for the garden tour.

Pro Tips: The museum shop is stocked with beautiful items and is well worth checking out. Chances are you’ll find something here to bring home to friends and family. And if you work up an appetite during your Bishop adventure, there’s no need to go off campus. We found the cafe to be charming and very much in line with traditional food-truck fare, offering Hawaiian favorites such as poke bowls, kalua pork and poi, and the famous macaroni potato salad (yes, it’s a thing!). The prices are reasonable, too.

Planning a trip to Oahu? Check out Honolulu’s best free and frugal activities, and be sure to make time for Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and the North Shore.

9 Excellent Nashville Hidden Gems To Visit

Nashville, or Music City, is mainly known for its honky tonks and music sites. The Grand Ole Opry is grand! There are museums dedicated to many country music legends, recording studios to be toured, and what seems to be an endless row of honky-tonk bars where live music flows all night.

In fact, in 2019, CNN named Nashville the number one destination for bachelorette parties. Say no more! But there is another side to Nashville that can provide a respite and maybe a slower pace, but is still packed with fun and interest. These are Nashville’s less-known and hidden gems.

Eggs benedict from Biscuit Love. — BiscuitLove.com

1. Biscuit Love In The Gulch

You’ll want to visit the Gulch because it is an old hippie neighborhood. It may not seem like that now with all the new condos and hotels, but the remnants are there in lots of off-beat bars and restaurants.

I visited Biscuit Love for a Sunday breakfast along with dozens of others who waited with me in line to soak up chicken and waffles, biscuits and jam, and lots of other traditional Southern breakfast cuisine. The restaurant started as an Airstream travel trailer food truck and eventually settled into this location. They keep their heritage alive with table numbers featuring the iconic trailer picture. The food is great and worth the effort to get in. They don’t take reservations, but the line is fun with all the street action and fellow diners as hungry as you are!

Centennial Park in Nashville. — STLJB / Shutterstock

2. Centennial Park And Vanderbilt University

The most famous element of this park, just over a mile from downtown, is the replica of the Parthenon (yes, the one in Greece!). But Centennial Park itself is the hidden gem. Originally built in 1897, it was the site of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition. The city decided to make it a permanent park when the Expo closed and to keep the Parthenon as an attraction. I found the park to be a lovely place with ponds with ducks, plenty of food truck vendors, and picnic spots galore.

Vanderbilt University, built by patriarch Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1873, sits adjacent to the park. He is literally a looming figure with a statue of him prominently featured in Centennial Park. The campus has beautiful grounds you can stroll. Check out Kirkland Hall, a unique building that is the original site of the university. The Peabody College of Education buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Centennial Park is open every day from dawn to 11 p.m. Visit in the spring when magnolias and redbuds are in bloom.

A pedal tavern in Nashville. — Scott Heaney / Shutterstock

3. Pedal Party Bars

Every city has a tour bus for sightseeing, but Nashville has pedal bikes for up to 16 people and each is a party in motion! It’s a BYOB venue and the “vehicle” is a pedal-assisted adventure with each guest pedaling along to the blaring music, drinking, singing, and enjoying the city sites.

A guide/bartender drives the party bike down Broadway or through the Gulch and ensures that everyone has a great time. When you are walking down the street, you hear the party coming and can’t help but enjoy the frivolity as they pedal their way down the street. Tickets are about $40 to $45 depending on the day of the week (tours run seven days a week) and which company you select. Have fun and keep pedaling!

4. Bluebird Cafe

You may have seen this venue on the television series Nashville. It is literally a hole in the wall at a strip mall not far from downtown (an easy Uber ride away). The Bluebird Cafe gives each patron an up-close-and-personal musical experience. Tickets are hard to get because of the size of the place and the day-of stand-by line is an even tougher ticket to get.

But if you get in, you will experience great music in an atmosphere so cozy it feels like your living room. A simple food menu and full bar are available to cover the $10 minimum purchase requirement. Mondays at 6 p.m. Bluebird hosts a new talent night where aspiring stars come to sing their hearts out, but you’ll have to stand in line all afternoon to get in. There’s a late show with the house band and no reservations are taken, which means you stand in the “I hope to get a ticket” line. Ticket prices vary by artist for reservation-eligible shows.

5. Frist Art Museum

This is a nice art museum that is housed in a most unexpected building. It is in the former, main U.S. Post Office — an art deco gem — located in downtown Nashville. The Frist Art Museum is a wonderful adaptive reuse of a historic building that is on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, the main lobby of the post office has been retained in all its glory and is used as a common space for ticket purchases and events. The vibe takes you back in time to an era of jazz and glamor.

The art galleries can be accessed from this long rectangular space and feature local Nashville and Tennessee artists as well as national tours of international art. There’s a children’s art-making section as well. The building is well worth visiting even if you don’t pay to see the art. It’s open seven days a week. Admission for gallery viewing is $15 and $10 for seniors.

6. Looby Memorial And The Woolworth Building

Nashville played a role in the fight for civil rights. One of the early lunch counter desegregation efforts happened here in 1960, and it was filled with violence and heroes. John Lewis (civil rights icon and current Congressman from Georgia) was a student protester who willingly violated Jim Crow laws to sit at the white lunch counter at the downtown Woolworth store and experienced his first of many arrests during that protest.

An African-American attorney, Alexander Looby, helped the cause and his house was firebombed and destroyed while the sit-ins were happening. There is a historical marker where the house stood at 2010 Meharry Boulevard, across the street from Meharry Medical College (one of four Historic Black Colleges and Universities in Nashville). Head over to the 5th Avenue Historic District and you can tour that lunch counter in the fully restored Woolworth building and restaurant. The Woolworth on 5th also is a very nice restaurant serving lunch, dinner, and brunch by reservation. They also have live music. The now-restored building was built in 1901 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building and restaurant are open seven days a week.

Andrew Jackson's Hermitage in Nashville. — Zack Frank / Shutterstock

7. Hermitage (The Andrew Jackson Home)

The seventh President of the U.S. had his home, called Hermitage, just outside of central Nashville. It is now a National Historic site of 120 beautiful acres with a restored plantation home and former slave quarters, gardens, and a cemetery including Jackson’s tomb, plus a duel re-enactment. Jackson preservationists call him the People’s President and Old Hickory. He was a formidable man in life and lives on with his face on the $20 bill. He made his share of decisions that history has not treated kindly, and he was a significant slaveholder.

His life and times are thoughtfully portrayed at this home. Jackson killed a man in a duel over honor. The “Southern gentleman” code is captured by historical actors for visitors in re-enactments hosted at Hermitage Thursdays through Sundays. Guided tour tickets are available at three levels ranging from $24 to $50 (with lower senior pricing). Be prepared to walk and stand for several hours (both indoors and out, rain or shine) as you tour the house and grounds.

The J. Percy Priest Dam outside of Nashville. — eakkarat rangram / Shutterstock

8. J. Percy Priest Dam And Recreation Areas

The Army Corps of Engineers maintains the Priest Dam and hundreds of acres of recreational lands with trails, lakes, and campgrounds about 20 minutes outside of Nashville. You can go to the visitors center to learn about the dam and its significance in keeping the Cumberland Valley from flooding.

The Corps does a great job of ensuring an accessible and enjoyable outdoor space, so prepare to get your sunshine and exercise. You could even bring a boat and explore an island. You can go to any of the day-use areas, several of which have beaches for swimming at the reservoir lake, or hike numerous trails, all for a $5 daily entry fee. If you want a less strenuous visit, simply drive across the dam for a great view. You can go to the visitors center and overlook at the dam as well. This is a unique destination to work off any honkey tonk blues.

9. Sri Ganesha Temple

About 15 minutes outside of downtown, you can be transported to another world at the Sri Ganesha Hindu Temple. The architecture of these types of temples is very intriguing. This one replicates temples built in the 900 to 1100 A.D. era and was created by Indian craftsmen. The deity Ganesh is the symbol of the temple and resembles an elephant. Statuary depicting Ganesh adorns the grounds as well. You can explore the grounds, go inside, and enjoy the contemplative space.

Weekly services and events are held at the temple for practicing Hindus and guests. It’s a cultural experience you might not expect to have in Nashville. The temple is open in the mornings and evenings and tours are given once a month on Saturdays. Donations are accepted.

Nashville bound? Read up on Nashville hot chicken: what it is and why you should try it on your next visit, plus TravelAwaits’ Nashville Travel Guide: What To Eat, See, And Do.

How To Spend A Day In Strasbourg, France

A visit to Strasbourg will give you the feeling that you’ve been dropped into a fairy tale. This French city in Alsace combines the best of France and Germany.

Strasbourg offers quaint architecture with an abundance of German timber framing known as fachwerk. The winding cobblestone lanes date back to Roman times. Canals and rivers run through and around the old town, and an imposing cathedral with a single steeple towers over the main square. The entire center island of Strasbourg, known as the Grand Ile, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Strasbourg makes for a perfect day-trip destination, because it’s compact enough that you can easily explore it all on foot. The town is just a 2-hour train ride from Paris, so it’s easy to get there for a day of dining, shopping, and sightseeing.

Here are the best ways to spend a day in delightful Strasbourg.

Place Kleber, the main market square in Strasbourg. — Leonid Andronov / Shutterstock

Head For The Historic Center Of Strasbourg

Start your visit in the main market square of Strasbourg to get a feel for the vibe of this historic town. If you arrive by train, you can walk to the square in about 15 minutes. The square is lively and bordered by shops, eateries, and the iconic cathedral.

Nearby is the quieter Gutenberg Square, named for Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the printing press. He lived here from 1434 to 1444, and his memorial dominates the square. This smaller square shows you the more residential side of Strasbourg. Look for a plaque denoting where writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe lived in 1770.

Historic buildings in Strasbourg's Petite France. — Sharon Odegaard

Explore Petite France

Petite France is my favorite area of the Grand Ile. Be sure to make your way here, even if you don’t have much time. This western end of the island is full of half-timbered homes and shops that date to the 1500s. Strasbourg was once home to a thriving tanning industry, and you’ll see signs of this even today. Canals and hand-controlled locks, bridges, flower boxes full of red geraniums, and cafes make this a charming area. As you wander, look for the Ponts Couverts, the three towers on the canal that date to the 1300s.

Pro Tip: Enjoy Petite France early in the morning, before the crowds arrive. I first walked here right after an early breakfast, and so few people were out. The quiet of the water and centuries-old buildings were so peaceful.

Marvel At The Strasbourg Cathedral

This fine example of late Gothic architecture was the world’s tallest building from the mid-1600s to the mid-1800s. Author Victor Hugo visited and called it a “gigantic and delicate marvel.” Light filters through stained glass windows that are 700 to 900 years old.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1015, though the original structure ultimately burned. The cathedral you see today dates to the 12th century. Its history is intertwined with the tumultuous history of the region of Alsace. As Strasbourg went back and forth between German and French rule, the cathedral was briefly a Protestant church during the Reformation, but it returned to its Catholic roots in 1681. It suffered through three major wars but remained largely intact. During World War II, the Germans removed all the windows for safekeeping. The Allies found them in a salt mine at the end of the war and restored them to their proper places.

An interesting story about the cathedral involves how Goethe taught himself to overcome his fear of heights. He would often climb to the top of the dome of the cathedral and then step out onto a ledge that’s since been blocked off. He would look down and hope he could keep from falling to his death. Fortunately for us, he lived through this regimen to continue his writing.

The astronomical clock in Strasbourg Cathedral. — Steve Allen / Shutterstock

This cathedral is also home to a fascinating astronomical clock that dates to the 1500s. It sounds each day at 12:30 p.m., solar noon.

Pro Tip: To see the once-a-day clock show, you must buy a ticket in the small gift shop (it costs about 6 euros). I didn’t see any signage indicating that, so you have to know to ask. A 20-minute video explains how the clock was designed. Then at 12:30 p.m., the clock chimes and the figures move in a circle. It’s well worth seeing.

A canal in Strasbourg, France. — Sharon Odegaard

Float Down The River

A boat ride on the River Ill in Strasbourg will take you in a circle around the old town. It’s a relaxing way to leisurely view the town’s main sights. Lasting 70 minutes, the boat tour goes through two locks. It’s fun to watch the driver run to the back of the boat and work the locks; you’ll feel the water level changing. You can choose a covered or uncovered boat for your tour, depending on the weather and your preference.

You can buy your timed tickets at the tourist information building next to the cathedral in the main square. All cruises are run by Batorama.

A meal the writer had in Strasbourg. — Sharon Odegaard

Eating And Drinking In Strasbourg

Alsatian food is sure to please, since it blends the best of German and French cuisine. In Strasbourg, you are in the heart of the wine route of southern France, so you can count on the local wines to be wonderful, especially the Rieslings. Cheese is a specialty, too; the town of Munster is just a few miles away.

The Petite France area is a short walk from the cathedral, the shopping area, and the main square. I suggest eating in this picturesque area, at a restaurant with a view of the water if you’d like.

Here are two recommendations for a delicious lunch or dinner.

Le Lohkas

My most memorable meal in Strasbourg was at Le Lohkas. Built in 1676, the restaurant sits on a canal bank and was once used by tanners. And while I loved being in the middle of history, it was the food that won me over completely. The menu features fresh seafood and tasty sauces, and the service is top notch.

Maison Des Tanneurs

Once a tanner’s house, this structure dates to 1572. Now a popular restaurant, Maison des Tanneurs offers delicious food and charming ambience.

Shopping In Strasbourg

A car-free shopping street, the Rue des Hallebardes, lies between the main square and the train station. Here you’ll find elegant jewelry, clothing boutiques, leather goods, and perfume shops. For souvenirs, check out the small stores and pop-up stands around the cathedral.

I preferred to browse the little side streets that are full of local and specialty offerings. My favorite finds were a bakery — the Woerle Boulangerie and Patisserie, founded in 1919 — and the Terre d’Ours toy store. I walked by this store several times and finally went inside and adopted a small, adorable teddy that’s my favorite souvenir from this trip.

Where To Stay In Strasbourg

I stayed at Le Bouclier d’Or, which is on a side street off the main thoroughfare and very close to Petite France. It was close to all the sights while also allowing us to retreat to a quiet neighborhood where locals live. While the building dates to the 1500s, the interior is modern and welcoming.

The people who run the hotel went out of their way to help when I made a last-minute change to our dates. The buffet breakfast is elegant and delicious, too.

Canals in Strasbourg's Petite France. — Sharon Odegaard

Pro Tip: Start early! Strasbourg is a major tourist destination, and the streets can get congested with large groups. I found that getting out early in the day allowed me to explore before the groups arrived. This was especially the case for the cathedral and Petite France.

If you are day-tripping and can’t arrive early, turn down the side lanes off the main streets. Any time of day, this is a great way to get a feel for Strasbourg without the crush of people.

Whether you come for a day or for a longer visit, you’ll find that Strasbourg is a medieval treasure that will steal your heart.

The Best Things To Do In Door County, Wisconsin In The Winter

Life slows down in Door County, Wisconsin, in the wintertime. The area is a popular summer destination, but the winter is Door County’s quiet season. Still, you’ll find an abundance of winter outdoor activities like hiking and ice fishing. If you prefer to stay warm, Door County’s got something for you, too: You can shop, dine, and explore the charming cities along the peninsula.

Here are some of the best things to do in charming Door County in the winter.

Door County, Wisconsin bay In The Winter. — Hank Erdmann / Shutterstock

Celebrate The Season With A Winter Festival

Fish Creek’s 33rd annual Winterfest will take place from January 31 to February 2 this year. Participants can enjoy delicious food, contests, fireworks, a chili cook-off, live music, ice sculptures, and games at this festival overlooking the frozen waters of Green Bay.

Catch the ferry to Washington Island for its weeklong Celebrating Winter festivities starting February 8. Enjoy food, entertainment, and adventure — you can even participate in the Fishing Derby!

On February 15, Sturgeon Bay will host the Fire and Ice Festival, where visitors can watch as carvers transform blocks of snow and ice into works of art. Explore Sturgeon Bay on the free trolley and be sure to pick up a brochure listing the ice and snow block locations at the Destination Sturgeon Bay Welcome Center.

Ice fishing hole in Wisconsin lake — Nathan Krause / Shutterstock.com

Try Your Hand At Ice Fishing

Ice fishing in Door County was once a necessity, but now it’s a favorite winter pastime. The deep freeze brings anglers seeking whitefish, trophy walleye, northern pike, and trout. Once the ice is thick enough, anglers move their shanties to the fishing holes, creating dozens of tiny shanty towns along the ice-covered bays and inland lakes.

Hire a fishing guide and you’ll be set up with bait, gear, a shanty, the latest fishing technology, plus the guide’s years of experience fishing through frozen water.

winter shoreline in Peninsula State Park in Door County, Wisconsin — Mark Baldwin / Shutterstock.com

Hike And Play In A Winter Wonderland

Winter is the perfect season for getting outdoors and exploring Door County. Join a naturalist-guided snowshoe hike to roam the frozen tundra of Wisconsin’s oldest nonprofit nature preserve, The Ridges Sanctuary. The 1,600-acre natural preserve is a designated State Natural Area and home to 5 miles of rustic trails.

You can also explore the 3,776 acres of Peninsula State Park. Rent snowshoes, cross-country skis, or fat-tire bikes from Nor Door Sport & Cyclery to discover more than 16 miles of groomed, double-tracked ski trails and 4 miles of snowshoe and hiking trails.

Snowshoe tours are available at Whitefish Dunes State Park, which is home to eight Native American villages dating from 100 B.C. to the late 1800s as well as the highest sand dunes in Wisconsin.

At Ellison Bay Bluff County Park, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views in Door County. Visitors can take a wooded walkway to the edge of a 100-foot limestone bluff.

On a snowy day, do as the locals do and head to the Peninsula State Park Golf Course, a popular spot for slipping and sliding down Hill 17 on a snow tube.

Shop For Wisconsin Specialties

Wisconsin — and Door County in particular — is known for local specialties like cheese, lavender, and cherries. You can find all three in cities along the peninsula.

Stop by Door County’s oldest cheese store, Renard’s Cheese. Owner Howard Renard began making cheese at the age of 14. Since 1961, this family-owned business has provided locally made cheese to Door County residents and visitors. You’ll find two cheese stores as well as Renard’s Rosewood Dairy, where the cheese is produced.

At Wisconsin Cheese Masters, you’ll find an unbelievable cheese selection. Master cheesemakers practicing artisan and farmstead cheesemaking are the secret to the company’s winning cheese. They are selective in the cheese they deem worthy, but there’s still quite a variety — more than 600 kinds of cheese to choose from, in fact! There’s something here for every palate.

It may not be cherry season in the winter, but you’ll still find an abundance of cherry-related products at Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market. Its Door County Montmorency cherries are freshly picked and packaged during the summer harvest, then bottled into fruity wine, baked into pies, pressed into jugs of tart cherry juice, or dried and packaged to purchase and take home.

The lavender sold at Island Lavender in Ephraim is sustainably grown on Washington Island without chemicals or pesticides. You can pick up bath salts, lotion, or aromatherapy products to soothe your winter ailments or indulge in culinary delights like lavender syrup, jellies, and spices.

Warm Up With A Hot Drink

At Door County Coffee & Tea Company, you can warm up with some delicious coffee roasted in small batches. Try the unique flavors like cherry creme, raspberry butter crunch, and caramel pecan scone.

If tea is more your pleasure, choose from more than 60 varieties of loose tea at Tea Thyme in Sister Bay. Local favorites include the Door County Cherry, Winter White Earl Grey, and Jasmine Green.

Discover Handmade Arts

For unique arts and crafts, check out the hand-blown glass at Popelka Trenchard Glass in Sturgeon Bay, take in the handcrafted porcelain and stoneware at Plum Bottom Gallery in Egg Harbor, or head to Turtle Ridge Gallery in Ellison Bay to view leather handbags and accessories, wearable art, and unique home decor, all produced in the studio.

Woodwalk Gallery in Egg Harbor was recently selected as one of the top 10 galleries in Wisconsin. You’ll find a variety of artwork in the historic barn, including pieces by more than 70 artists. Peruse the paintings, metalwork, woodwork, glass, jewelry, furniture, and more.

Ignite Your Inner Fire With Locally Distilled Spirits

Door Peninsula Winery and Door County Distillery are located under one roof in Door County’s historic Carlsville schoolhouse. The winery is known for fruit and sweet/semisweet wines, and the distillery produces vodka, gin, and fruit-infused vodka distilled with the clean, limestone-infused waters of the Door Peninsula.

The family-owned Door County Brewing Company in Baileys Harbor was established in 2012 and sources as many ingredients as possible from Door County and Wisconsin to produce beers that reflect local influences and heritage. Sample the Polka King Porter, the Little Sister Witbier, and the Farm House Ale.

Door 44 Winery in Sturgeon Bay is open during the winter with limited hours, so check in before planning your visit. Sample award-winning wines, stroll the 10-acre vineyard, or tour the winery with the Door County landscape in the background.

Door County, Wisconsin fish boil — GTibbetts / Shutterstock.com

Enjoy A Winter Fish Boil

Fish boils are a cooking tradition in Door County, and the tradition carries on during the winter months.

The fish boil originated as an economical way to feed large groups of lumberjacks and fishermen. It started with churches providing local fish, potatoes, and Door County cherry pies for fundraisers, but eventually the area restaurants created their own tasty events. Each restaurant has its own process for boiling the fish, and, no matter the season, it’s an experience that’s not to be missed.

Sister Bay Bowl, a third-generation family-owned supper club, is a favorite dining destination. In addition to the fish boil, try the local cheese curds and one of the classic cocktails. The White Gull Inn, established in 1896, offers a fish boil using freshly caught Lake Michigan whitefish cooked over an open fire.

Sample Homestyle Cooking That’ll Warm Your Heart

Winter comfort foods abound in Door County.

Stop by the family-owned Scaturo’s Baking Company and Cafe in Sturgeon Bay for home-cooked foods like specialty breads, cookies, pecan rolls, and pies. Lunch favorites include the Friday fish-fry plate, the ultimate Door County burger featuring Renard’s two-year-aged white Cheddar, and the mac and cheese with Marchant’s bacon.

At Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant, an authentic Swedish family-owned restaurant located in Sister Bay, be sure to order the Swedish pancakes with lingonberries and a side of meatballs.

Or dine at one of Fish Creek’s best restaurants, Barringers Restaurant, where you’ll find a Wisconsin supper club and steakhouse experience. Dinners include specially selected steaks, fresh seafood, and generous sides. Whether you dine in the historic dining room or choose the indoor/outdoor bar, you’ll enjoy locally sourced ingredients, craft cocktails, and wine selected by an in-house certified sommelier.

Looking for more on Door County? Here are some of the area’s hidden gems.

13 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Seoul

As a full-time international house sitter, I’ve house sat in some far-flung places, but I’d never been to South Korea. So, when I learned of a month-long house sitting assignment in Incheon for December 2019, I jumped at the opportunity. As a full-time traveler whose life is pretty logistics heavy, I seldom have time to research much about the culture in my upcoming destinations. I was unprepared for some of South Korea’s mores. Here’s what I wish I’d learned earlier:

Table for one at a restaurant in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

1. Dining Alone In Seoul Is Tricky

Eating out is a meaningful event for Koreans. Social rules abound — from who takes the first bite to the pace of eating. This wasn’t always the case: Ancient Confucian rules required women to serve men and to eat separately. But, the introduction of capitalism, the increase of gender equality, and an emerging restaurant culture that served family-style meals during the post-WWII Japanese occupation created a more communal eating culture.

This makes dining out a challenge for solo travelers. Walking into a Korean barbecue restaurant, sitting alone at a large-group table, and asking for a “doggy-bag” for limitless side dishes just isn’t done! Most food is served in family-style portions and grilled or cooked in hotpots in the middle of the table. So, dining alone is tricky.

But, this is changing. As the number of single-person households has increased, a new trend is taking hold. Honbap culture welcomes single diners by offering smaller tables, single-person portions, and decreased stigma.

For me, a single 50-something American woman house sitting alone in Incheon for a month, I dealt with this cultural eating conundrum by ordering take-away meals (at a surcharge) and eating at the apartment I was watching. I learned that the ubiquitous Korean coffee shops serve interesting small plates and sandwiches on fabulous bread. I took a couple of walking tours and cooking classes to cultivate dinner dates. And, of course, the markets offering a plethora of street food kept my tummy happy!

Eating at a tea house in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

2. Don’t Tip!

While we’re on the subject of restaurants, tipping isn’t necessary, expected, or even appreciated, as it may be considered rude. No need to tip porters or taxi drivers, either.

Don’t ask for the bill at the table, unless the server automatically brings it. Pay at the cash register on your way out. I learned this the hard way from the angry looks a server shot me after I had politely gestured for the bill.

3. Incheon Is NOT Seoul

Contrary to the name of Seoul’s international airport (Incheon International), Incheon is not Seoul. In fact, it’s not even Seoul-adjacent. It’s a good 14 miles away, and it will take up to two hours by Metro to get into Seoul’s tourist attractions from Incheon. I was house sitting in Incheon, and adding four hours onto a sightseeing day was wearying. Next time, I’d stay in Seoul’s neighborhoods around Gyeongbokgung Palace or along the Han River.

Map of the Seoul Metro lines. — VisitKorea

4. Once Tamed, The Metro Rocks

Seoul is a lot bigger than it appears on a map! Even for a short visit, it’s worth learning the Metro system to ease getting around. Many tour guides offer directions based on Metro lines and the specific exit number. Be sure to take the right exit or consult the interactive touch-screen maps at the larger Metro stations — or risk being several confusing blocks away from your destination. Stations are designated by name, number, and line.

Although signs are in English, tackling the Metro map is a learning curve. Free maps are available from information kiosks, but the English-language map is small and difficult to read. I used my cell phone to shine a little light and magnification on the map. I also used Rome2Rio to plan my journeys between stations.

Buy a T-Money card at a 7-11 or CU convenience store before you get to the Metro, as cards are not available at all station booths. These plastic cards can be used on all Metro and buses and with some taxi companies throughout South Korea. Since they offer small discounts on each ride, they often pay for themselves — and certainly are more convenient than buying single-ticket cards for each ride. Replenish the cards at Metro stations or the convenience stores.

Remember to both tap in and tap out on Metro and buses — or the system will charge you for a longer ride.

Transferring between train lines can involve walking underground for ridiculously long distances. Wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly in the winter, as the station tunnels are quite drafty. Some of the larger stations have tempting food kiosks.

Be sure to check the travel time to your final destination. From Incheon into Seoul, I often rode through 30 or more subway stops, which sometimes took a full two hours! Again, Rome2Rio helped me gauge my travel time.

Seat designated for pregnant women. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

Metro etiquette leaves the seats designated for pregnant women empty — or risk dirty looks. The seats designated for elderly people are equally sacred. The cars are eerily quiet — it’s rude to talk loudly or use a mobile phone without headphones.

Good manners fly out the window, however, when it comes to jostling on and off trains or escalators or rushing for an empty seat, when even the most genteel Korean seems to become an offensive running back for the Buffalo Bills.

If you tire of the Metro, taxis are everywhere, but avoid the pricier “black” or deluxe taxis. Uber is new and becoming more common throughout Seoul.

A street food vendor in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

5. Basic English Is Widely Spoken … Or At Least Understood

Even when my barista shyly said she didn’t speak English, she understood me if I delivered my request slowly and with a smile and a slight bow. Some Koreans are self-conscious about their pronunciation of English but understand it well!

Lotus petal lamps on a street in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

6. My ATM Card Wouldn’t Work!

I’ve traveled to pretty remote parts of the world, and my USAA debit card has never failed to deliver local cash. Madagascar, Senegal, Malawi, Reunion — local banks accepted my card without a problem. But in Seoul? I found only one bank (Woori) that accepted my card. An American traveling with a Charles Schwab ATM card had the same dilemma, as did another traveling with a Wells Fargo card. Look for ATMs marked “Global,” and your chances will increase, but, even then, there’s the possibility that not all “Global” machines will accept your card.

During my first cashless day, I used my Capital One credit card, which was widely accepted. You’ll still need cash, however, for local restaurants that don’t accept foreign credit cards.

Jongyesa Temple in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

7. Google Maps Doesn’t Work

South Korea is the only country in the world where Google Maps is not allowed. It has to do with international laws enacted following the Korean War that prevent data from being exported out of the country and falling into enemy hands. Google stores its data in foreign servers, which violates these laws. (Although, in a quirk, Google Maps is allowed in North Korea!)

I used Rome2Rio and heard great things about KakaoMap, which has free navigating maps in English, plus apps for navigating the subway and bus systems. Go to “Settings” to switch to English.

Shoes outside of a traditional home in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

8. Koreans Love Their Floors

It really is true that you’ll be required to remove your shoes at many people’s homes, at some restaurants, and even at some museums. You might be provided with slippers, but don’t count on it: Wear socks, preferably without holes! It’s easier and faster if you wear shoes that slip on and off. You’ll notice many Koreans shuffle along in sneakers with untied laces.

Traditionally, Koreans sit and sleep on their floors, so keeping floors clean is a mindful necessity. Also, they have a special history with their underfloor heating, an ancient system called ondol that dates back to 5000 B.C. Koreans are proud of ondol, and you are likely to hear about its origin and mechanics during your tours.

Young women in traditional South Korean dress. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

9. Mind Your Hands

You’ll quickly notice that Koreans present and accept money, food, and anything of value with both hands and a slight bow. It’s a custom that honors the transaction.

Koreans also don’t touch acquaintances. Hugging and patting someone’s shoulder are unwelcome familiarities. I learned this when I attempted to hug my female university student walking tour guide good-bye. She was kind and accepted the hug, but it clearly made her uncomfortable.

Meal after a free walking tour in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

10. Don’t Pay For A Walking Tour

Speaking of walking tours, there are dozens offered online that range from $20 to $70 USD. But several organizations, including the Seoul Tourism Bureau, offer free walking tours — in English — of significant tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods. Some tours are guided by professionally trained volunteers, others by university students who want to practice their English.

Feeding a meerkat at Table A Cafe in Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

11. Museums Are Closed On Mondays

Bummer. Plan instead to visit one of Seoul’s fabulous animal cafes — a true cultural treat! Yes, there are Starbucks galore, but there’s also Thanks Nature Cafe, where live sheep visit the tables, Blind Alley, where sleepy raccoons lounge in the rafters, and Table A Cafe, which hosts cuddly meerkats with your macchiato.

12. Don’t Brag About Your Recent Trip To Japan

Since Japan’s occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945, Koreans are understandably touchy about how their history is described. Case in point: The lack of full recognition of the estimated 200,000 “comfort women” — as Japan euphemistically called Korean teenagers who were kidnapped and held for years as sex slaves — continues to cast a pall over relations between the two countries.

Soju, a popular rice wine in Seoul. — Graham Hills / Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

13. Drinking In Public Is Legal

Everyone mentions the rice wine, soju, which I found pretty tasteless. You can buy it for $1 USD in 7-11s. You can also get bagged drinks to go in hookah bars or other take-out bars.

Also important to know: Vet your hotel or vacation rental so it caters to your late-night needs, whether you prefer quiet or carousing.

Haejang-guk, the unofficial hangover soup of Seoul. — Kelly Hayes-Raitt

My other tip? Nurse a hangover with haejang-guk soup. Everyone swears by it. I plead the Fifth.

Planning your visit? Don’t miss these seven beautiful places in Seoul, South Korea.

How To Spend A Day In Bayeux, France

Bayeux, France, is a small, ancient town near the coast of Normandy. It offers cobblestone lanes, world-famous art, the peaceful River Aure with its waterwheels, and mouthwatering local cuisine. What’s more, you can easily visit the D-Day beaches from Bayeux — they’re only a few miles away from the town.

A short train ride from Paris, Bayeux makes for a fascinating day trip from the big city. Bayeux has something for every type of traveler, so there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy a memorable day.

Here are some of the best ways to spend a day in Bayeux.

Bayeux's Old Town in France. — Vlasyuk Inna / Shutterstock

Relax In The Old Town

When you arrive in Bayeux, what you’ll notice first is that the medieval town is astonishingly well preserved. Its narrow, winding streets and half-timbered homes and businesses will transport you hundreds of years back in time.

The preservation of Bayeux is even more remarkable considering that it’s located only 6 miles inland from the nearest D-Day landing beach. Bombs devastated towns all over Normandy during World War II, but somehow this gem survived.

My tour guide told us of an event that took place on the evening of the Allied landing on June 6, 1944. A priest from Bayeux risked his life to get to the beach and meet with the Allies. The soldiers, after fighting to gain about a mile of the shore that day, were recuperating as darkness fell, but they would be pressing inland the next day.

The priest knew that Bayeux lay in their path and that they would certainly bomb and damage his beloved city. He informed the Allies that the Germans had already quietly left Bayeux, and he begged them not to bombard the city. The next day Bayeux, unscathed by battle, became the first French town to be liberated.

Take time to enjoy a coffee and pastry or lunch at a sidewalk cafe and revel in this tranquil place, with its steepled skyline and stone buildings hundreds of years old.

The Bayeux Tapestry in France. — Bayeux Museum

See The Bayeux Tapestry

The Bayeux Tapestry, now included on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register, is the reason many visitors make their way to Bayeux. More than 900 years old, this work of embroidery is almost 230 feet in length and 20 inches high. The tapestry is the largest and best-preserved work of art in this style from the Middle Ages.

Detailed scenes depict the victories of William the Conqueror, who became the king of England in 1066 after the Battle of Hastings. In addition to battle scenes, the wool threads woven in linen cloth portray scenes from medieval daily life. I found the horses of different shades of threads most impressive, as well as the sailing ships filled with soldiers.

The survival of a tapestry this old is a true miracle. For centuries, it was on display at the Bayeux Cathedral. During World War II, Hitler ordered it hidden. In 1944, the tapestry was sent to the Louvre in Paris for safekeeping. It’s now back in Bayeux and is displayed in the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. The viewing area is darkened, with only the tapestry lit up so that it can be seen up close and clearly. Your ticket includes an audio guide in your language. You move along the glassed-in tapestry as you hear the story it portrays.

After looking at the tapestry, spend some time in the permanent exhibition area and learn more about the creation of the art as well as the historical context of the scenes.

The Bayeux Cathedral in France. — Roman Babakin / Shutterstock

Visit The Bayeux Cathedral

The towering cathedral that dominates the skyline of Bayeux dates to 1077, and it was consecrated in the presence of William the Conqueror. Built in the Norman Romanesque style, it was damaged by fire and rebuilt with Gothic elements.

The outside of this historic cathedral shows its age, but the inside has been lovingly restored. I found the stained glass windows especially bright and colorful. Some of the windows are clear, letting in more light than windows in similar cathedrals. It’s worth taking a few minutes to go inside. And if you’re particularly interested in cathedrals, take advantage of the tours given daily.

The Bayeux War Cemetery in France. — marcin jucha / Shutterstock

Pay Your Respects At The Bayeux War Cemetery

The Bayeux War Cemetery is a large, beautiful cemetery for Commonwealth soldiers who died in France during World War II, mostly in the Normandy area. More than 4,000 men rest here, and you can visit and honor their memory.

Note that the British have long memories. Here’s the inscription on the memorial in this cemetery: “We, once conquered by William, have now set free the Conqueror’s native land.”

If you visit the Bayeux Tapestry earlier in the day, this summary of hundreds of years of history will tie together your day’s sightseeing.

A tank at the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy. — Sharon Odegaard

Learn About The Invasion Of Normandy

The excellent Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy is directly across the street from the cemetery. It presents in chronological order the events of the battle for Normandy, starting with the D-Day landings and continuing through that summer of 1944. You’ll find quite a collection of tanks and other vehicles and numerous items from World War II both inside and outdoors.

When I visited, I noticed several photos from the liberation of Normandy that featured children and their parents. Look for these as you tour the museum. They are a reminder that the war affected not just the soldiers but also countless civilians. The interactions between the liberators and the little ones are especially touching.

Allow an hour (or two if you are a history buff) to peruse the exhibits.

Omaha Beach near Bayeux, France. — SARYMSAKOV ANDREY / Shutterstock

Immerse Yourself In History At Omaha Beach

If you’re taking a day trip to Bayeux, you can experience a D-Day beach by heading to Omaha Beach at Colleville-sur-Mer. The museum there is informative and easy to take in in an hour or less. You can walk above the landing beach at Omaha and understand the lay of the land, with its high bluffs that sheltered the Germans from the Allies.

A highlight of any visit to Omaha Beach is the peaceful cemetery, the final resting place of almost 10,000 American soldiers who gave their lives in the battle for Normandy. The rows and rows of graves will move you beyond words.

Tip: If you’ve come by train and don’t have a car, you can take Bus 70 to Omaha Beach. It’s a 20-minute ride.

Another option is to visit Gold Beach at Arromanches, also near Bayeux. Here you can see the large cement mulberry harbors still submerged in the water. A small but informative museum is at this beach, and you can learn about the engineering feat that resulted in this portable harbor.

Breakfast at Au Georges VII in Bayeux. — Sharon Odegaard

Eating And Drinking In Bayeux

The Normandy countryside is full of farms and cattle, and the produce and dairy are fantastic. Cheeses are a specialty of the area, and I’ve read of people taking butter home on the plane — it’s just that good. Then there’s the fresh fish from the little villages in the area. Add the boulangeries with their breads and pastries, and you are in foodie heaven!

Here are the restaurants in the heart of town that I highly recommend.

Au Georges VII

This sidewalk cafe serves a tasty breakfast, and you can sit inside or outside and watch people go by as you sip your latte.

Le Marsala

For dinner, my first choice is Le Marsala, located in what I believe was once a farmhouse with stone walls and a wooden stairway to the upper level. The vegetarian lasagna is amazing.

La Table Du Terroir

La Table du Terroir in the heart of the Old Town serves delicious seafood. Sit on the patio if the weather is warm.

Where To Stay In Bayeux

Bayeux has a limited number of hotels, since the town is quite small. If you have a car, you could choose a bed and breakfast in the countryside.

My favorite hotel is Churchill Hotel on the main street in the heart of the city. Decorated in rich reds, the hotel is warm and welcoming. Ask at the front desk for recommendations for dinner or book a day tour in Normandy. You’ll be able to walk anywhere in town from here. Breakfast is served in the sunny day room, and parking is free.

Tip: Parking can be tricky in Bayeux. If you drive here, look for public parking lots, but beware that some of them close in the early evening. You may have to move your car to another lot. I found that the best way to figure out the parking is to ask a local to point you to a good lot.

Once you park your car, you will likely not need to drive until you leave Bayeux. The town and the major sites are all within a comfortable walking distance.

A trip to Bayeux will fill you with good memories. And digging into the historic events that took place here will give you much food for thought, too.