The Ultimate River Experience: Tanking In Nebraska

The Midwest is full of new adventures. Did you know that tanking in Nebraska is a thing? People of all ages pile into a cattle tank and float down a river while taking in the views along the shorelines. North Platte happens to be home to the North Platte River, and great tanking adventures begin here.

What Is Tanking?

If you’re not a Nebraskan, you are probably asking, “What is tanking?” Tanking is floating down a river in a cattle tank, a vessel typically used to supply drinking water to livestock or horses. They are made of steel and are watertight, which makes them ideal for floating down a river. A Nebraska adventure in a cattle tank makes perfect sense. Why? According to the Nebraska Beef Council, more than 6 million cattle live in Nebraska. Fun fact: There are more cattle than people in the state.

Tanking in Nebraska is a thing, and it’s an experience of a lifetime. Here are some tips that will make your first tanking trip memorable for all the right reasons.

View from the writer's tank in North Platte, Nebraska. — Sara Broers

Know Your Limitations Before You Hop In The Tank

There are a few things that you need to know before you begin your tanking adventure. If you have a fear of water, tanking is probably not for you. Participants will most likely get wet and may have to step into the river bed. Tanking in Nebraska is a workout. Unless you’re tanking with others who can assume this responsibility, your upper body should be strong enough to continually run a paddle if necessary. Once you have determined that you like water, have adequate upper body strength, and are after some outdoor fun in Nebraska, it’s time to find a tanking outfitter.

How To Dress While Tanking

A common question people ask about tanking is “What should I wear?” I would recommend a swimsuit and cover-up for women and a swimsuit with a t-shirt for men (unless you’re tanking in the spring to see sandhill cranes — more on that below). Tanking is an outdoor activity, surrounded by water. Be sure to bring sunscreen and bug spray along to protect yourself. Water shoes are also a must, as you may find yourself tromping through the river at times.

You’ll also want a cooler filled with your beverages of choice and a lot of water. The hot Nebraska sun will warrant several beverages and water for keeping hydrated. I would also highly recommend a hat and sunglasses.

Friends Tank Together

The tanks themselves are big and can hold five or six people comfortably. The folks from the outfitter will help you place the tank in the water. They will also let you know where to place it at the end of your tanking adventure. There are no poofy pillows or cushy seats. If you want a cushy seat or a comfy chair, bring it along. My husband and I hopped in our tank after we had a quick introduction to what tanking was. There were two of us on board, but there was room for as many as three or four more. The water was flowing adequately, but it didn’t feel too fast.

Landscape of Nebraska from the writer's tank. — Sara Broers

You’ll Get To Know Nebraska’s Beauty While Tanking

Tanking is all about the experience and finding a new way to explore Nebraska. Canoes and kayaks are traditional ways to explore the rivers, but tanks bring an entirely different experience to the state’s waterways. Most people think of Nebraska as being flat and boring. In fact, Nebraska is anything but flat. When you drive from east to west, you will notice a change in the terrain. According to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System’s website, there are 79,000 miles of river in the state, 197 miles of which are designated as wild and scenic.

Nebraska is a great place to experience the river. You can hop in a boat, canoe, kayak, or tank to experience some of those miles. I don’t know about you, but a tank sure sounded more fun than any of the other choices!

Our tank trip took place on a hot summer day. The water was warm and the blue skies were vast as we floated down the river. The Nebraska landscape is nature at its finest. The shoreline is filled with flowering brush and trees that seem to tell a story. Now and then we listened to the quiet of the river. Birds flew by. Our surroundings felt almost surreal. We asked ourselves, “Why have we not done this before?”

Of course, it was at this point that our tank decided to hit the sandy bottom. Floating down a Nebraska river can be challenging in places as sand bars are common. We hopped out of our tank and pushed it back into the waterway. At one point we actually found ourselves going in a circle on the North Platte River, which was an experience in itself!

The writer and her husband tanking in Nebraska. — Sara Broers

Tanking In Nebraska Is Your Experience And Nobody Else’s

The beauty of tanking in Nebraska is that you determine your own experience. If you want the quiet of the river, you can enjoy the river sounds. If music is your thing, you will want to bring your smartphone and a portable speaker. Most importantly, protect your smartphone with a dry bag! The beauty along the river will provide ample photo opportunities. I took my smartphone and was able to use it to capture the beauty of Nebraska up close and personal.

Tanking in Nebraska is not for everyone. But, if you are adventurous and looking for something that others are not doing, this is it! The ultimate river experience is what you will find when you hop in a cattle tank and push off a Nebraska bank into the current. You will have bragging rights for years to come, as chances are small that your friends have tanked in Nebraska. I personally do not know of many other outdoor activities that offer so much opportunity for seeing nature and experiencing adventure in a single day that others are not talking about. When I mention tanking in Nebraska, most roll their eyes and ask What? That’s my cue to let the whole world know what tanking in Nebraska is all about.

Several Rivers In Nebraska Offer Tanking Experiences

There are numerous places in Nebraska to experience tanking. Mullen, Nebraska, is situated in the Nebraska Sandhills and located on the Sandhills Scenic Byway. Here you can tank and observe sandhill cranes. The Middle Loup River offers a leisurely tanking experience, and April is a popular time for tanking to view the sandhill cranes. It’s often chilly, so dress appropriately (it’s not uncommon to see folks in tanks dressed in coveralls, scarves, gloves, and hats) and pack your binoculars. If you have never had a reason to wear coveralls, tanking in Nebraska in spring will give you the opportunity!

Check Tanking Off Your Bucket List

My bucket list keeps growing, even as I check things off of my list. I challenge you to look at your bucket list today. If you do not have tanking in Nebraska on it, add it! An adventure like floating down a river in a cattle tank is sure to provide hours of laughter, fun memories, and even some time to reflect. There’s something to be said about a tank, an oar, and the shoreline of a Nebraska river. What are you waiting for? Plan your tanking experience today and let the good people of Nebraska roll out the red carpet to welcome you.

Nebraska bound? These eight fun and weird Nebraska festivals are worth checking out. If you can’t get enough of the water, consider exploring Florida’s glowing waters in a see-through kayak the next time you’re in the Sunshine State.

7 Wonderful Hiking Spots In Northern Ontario

If you ask anyone in the world what they envision when they think of Canada, there’s a good chance they’ll unknowingly describe Northern Ontario. The region’s incredibly lush landscapes, expansive fields, craggy rocks, brilliant lakes, and vibrant colors are classically Canadian. It may look like a postcard, but, happily, it’s real and quite accessible to visitors. Even better, it’s budget-friendly — you can get more bang for your buck in Northern Ontario than in most any other part of Canada. Finally, it’s home to some of the country’s best hiking trails!

I know the area well. My husband’s family is from Northern Ontario, and we’ve spent a lot of time there. My favorite time to visit is the fall, when the mosquitos are scarce and the autumn colors are incredible, but with a little planning you can enjoy these special hiking routes year-round (some are perfect for snowshoeing in winter!). And whether you like your hikes more or less challenging, there’s a trek for you.

Here are my favorites.

Bridal Veil Falls in Ontario, Canada. — Jen Eden / Shutterstock

1. Bridal Veil Falls, Manitoulin Island

Located directly off of Highway 540 and only about 2 hours away from Sudbury, Ontario, the trail to the top of Bridal Veil Falls (35 feet high) is hugely rewarding. The falls, of course, are beautiful, but the surrounding area is stunning as well. There are two parking lots and two approaches: one from the top of the outdoor steel staircase next to the falls and another from a few hundred yards down the trail, past some of the rapids. Both are considered easy hikes, and the paths are well groomed. Bring your swimsuit so that you can splash in the pool at the base of the falls when you’re done!

Every successful hike should be followed by a hearty meal. Lake Huron Fish & Chips Co. on Manitoulin Island’s south shore is a local favorite and offers fresh, locally caught fish.

2. Devil’s Rock, Temiskaming Shores

This granite escarpment, roughly halfway between North Bay, Ontario, and Timmins, Ontario, is more than 2 million years old and rises 300 feet above Lake Temiskaming. Although it’s hugely popular with rock climbers, travelers who prefer an easier hike will still love trekking to Devil’s Rock. It’s one of Ontario’s prettiest hikes. While this hike is only moderate in difficulty, the rocky path might slow you down, and proper hiking shoes are recommended.

Without even realizing it, you might have “seen” Devil’s Rock before. This region was home to Canadian writer Leslie McFarlane, the ghostwriter behind many cherished childhood classics, including several of the Hardy Boys novels. The local environment influenced many of McFarlane’s works, especially The House on the Cliff (published under the name Franklin W. Dixon).

Literary fans aren’t the only ones who will enjoy this area. History buffs should be sure to visit the nearby Cobalt Mining Museum to learn about camp life during the area’s silver boom.

Duchesnay Falls in Ontario, Canada. — Ping Ye / Shutterstock

3. Duchesnay Falls, North Bay

Just a short distance from Highway 17, Duchesnay Falls might just be the perfect break from a long drive through Northern Ontario. Just outside the city of North Bay, this is the perfect day hike for anyone visiting the city.

The waterfall is picturesque, with two drops of nearly 15 feet each. The moderate hike to the falls is approximately 1.8 miles long and, while there are no sharp drops, the rocks are slippery when wet, and there are no fences. In particular, there are a few steep areas at the beginning of the trail, and there are no handrails to help you keep your balance as you go. This steepness isn’t present throughout, but when you aren’t expecting it, it can feel daunting. Sturdy hiking boots and poles will be tremendously helpful here.

North Bay is developing quite a reputation for craft beer. Two top choices include Cecil’s Brewhouse & Kitchen and New Ontario Brewing Company.

4. Cup And Saucer, Manitoulin Island

With more than 7.5 miles of hiking trails to explore, Cup and Saucer is the gateway to the highest peak of Manitoulin Island and one of the most popular hiking areas in Ontario. Hikes range from 15 minutes to 4 hours and include many different degrees of difficulty, so there will be something for every traveler.

The area is located 11 miles west of Little Current, Ontario, at the junction of Highway 540 and Bidwell Road. Many people start off on the “wrong” trail — here’s a great resource on how to tell the trails apart. Don’t worry — not all of the hikes involve heights!

If you feel like giving your legs a different kind of workout, Manitoulin Island is a fantastic place for cycling. Otherwise, you can give your legs a break entirely and try motorcycling, which is quite popular in the area.

View over Lake Temagami in Ontario, Canada. — Carly Autumn / Shutterstock

5. Caribou Mountain Tower, Temagami

About half a mile from Highway 11, an hour’s drive north from North Bay and 2 hours from Sudbury, is Caribou Mountain in Temagami. The summit is home to a 100-foot-tall fire tower with a remarkable history. A tower has stood on or near the site since 1910, and, until about 25 years ago, it was an invaluable tool for local rangers trying to prevent forest fires. You can expect some amazing views along the hike and, of course, at the summit — you don’t want to leave your camera behind! The $3 admission fee includes entrance to the interpretive center, which little ones will love. This is the perfect place to take the grandkids.

Lake Temagami is a great spot for paddling and fishing, but even recreational fishing requires a license. This can be obtained easily and inexpensively from a number of authorized local outfitters.

6. Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout, Pancake Bay Provincial Park

Just north of Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Superior, Pancake Bay Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s most underrated outdoor destinations. It offers gorgeous views, friendly staff, and is generally pretty quiet, even in the middle of summer. While the park offers several different hikes and nature walks to accommodate all visitors, none can compare to the 3.7-mile round-trip hike to the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout.

The SS Edmund Fitzgerald was a ship that sank during a fierce Lake Superior storm in 1975. The tragedy was immortalized by Gordon Lightfoot in his song “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” The moderately difficult hike to the lookout culminates in beautiful views of Lake Superior and, specifically, Whitefish Bay, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald’s final resting place.

Inside Pancake Bay Provincial Park’s small gift store, you can pick up bottles of maple syrup made from the sap from the park. While the entire province is famous for maple syrup, there’s something about buying it in Pancake Bay that makes it extra tasty.

High Falls on Pigeon River in Ontario. — Northern Exposure by JR / Shutterstock

7. The Boardwalk, Pigeon River Provincial Park

Just outside Thunder Bay near the Canada-United States border, Pigeon River Provincial Park offers a wide range of hikes, but my personal favorite is the easy and accessible Boardwalk Trail. At about half a mile, with the option to continue on to the connecting Finger Point Trail, it’s a relaxing walk along the water, complete with benches, informational plaques, and outdoor art.

This area offers great bird-watching opportunities. Gray catbirds, rose-breasted grosbeaks, common ravens, and Canada jays all call the park home.

Hiking Basics

No matter which route you choose, remember your hiking safety basics! Hiking in Ontario is generally safe, but it’s always best to exercise caution. Regardless of the weather conditions and intended length of the hike, bring plenty of water, healthy snacks, protective products (sunscreen, bug spray, a jacket, and a first-aid kit), and communication devices (with the understanding that you may not always have reception). Always let someone know where you’re going and when you intend to be back, and remember to take nothing but photographs and leave nothing but footprints.

Planning a outdoor excursion in Ontario? Check out the province’s best campgrounds.

8 Quaint European Winter Towns That Look Straight Out Of A Story Book

For a wintry getaway this year, you’ll find a huge range of European vacation spots that will offer you majestic views and delightful entertainment. But if you’re looking for loads of charm and a dusting of magic during your vacation, consider these small towns across the continent. Drink in the utter wonder of remote islands, charming lanes, and dazzling historical sites you would miss out on if you stick strictly to the big cities.

Be sure to bring your camera and pack cozy sweaters and warm coats. You’ll want to experience the wonder of the great outdoors and the comfort of the soft indoors in any — or all — of these amazing spots in Europe.

Hallstatt, Austria, during the winter time. — canadastock / Shutterstock

1. Hallstatt, Austria

A small lakeside town, Hallstatt, Austria, looks like it’s been lifted from the pages of a fairytale kingdom. The town is small in size but giant in charm. Quaint houses grace the edge of the lake with their old architecture. The backdrop of the Alps doesn’t hurt, either, when it comes to the unique beauty of the town. Add in snow, and you’ve got the perfect winter setting for all your cozy dreams. The gorgeous wooded trails and glassy lake surface only add to the wonder whenever a soft snowfall is drifting down.

2. Giethoorn, Netherlands

If you’re looking for a reprieve from the major cities of the Netherlands, you’ll want to venture to the small town of Giethoorn, a beautiful, 100 percent car-free town with very few roads. In fact, to get here, you’ll have to make your way in via boat.

The town is lined with narrow canals, filled with thatched-roof farmhouses and cozy cottages, and edged in lush gardens that are capped with snow in the wintertime. While you explore, you’ll find wooden bridges linking the lots of land together and leading you in and around the canals where you may spot ice skaters taking advantage of the cold.

Lofoten Islands, Norway, during the winter time. — ronnybas frimages / Shutterstock

3. Lofoten Islands, Norway

For an exceptionally beautiful and wild take on the storybook village, visit Lofoten Islands in Norway. The islands are off the country’s northwestern coast. Frozen beaches, glistening fjords, and colorful fishing communities are all within reach on the islands. Reine, on the island of Moskenesoya, in particular, offers some of the most incredible displays of natural splendor you could hope to find worldwide. The town is located above the Arctic Circle, which means snowy landscapes and frosty views with yellow, stilted buildings edging the mountains.

4. Cong, Ireland

You’ve heard of Cork. You may have heard of Wicklow. And both are amazing destinations in Ireland. But Cong looks as though it were plucked from the verse of an Irish tune. The town is located on an island bordering Counties Mayo and Galway. It’s located among lakes, lush green meadows, and those famous Irish glens. The town is dotted with the stone bridges and thatched-roof cottages of olden times, offering visitors a tranquil cold-weather visit to the Emerald Isle. Snuggle up beside a fireplace, drink a cup of tea, and gaze out at the serene beauty of the natural wildlands surrounding you.

Bled, Slovenia, during the winter time. — Fesus Robert / Shutterstock

5. Bled, Slovenia

Whether you’re taking a second honeymoon, bringing the kids along, or venturing out solo, Bled, Slovenia is one of the most picturesque places you can visit in Europe. Many photos reveal the town’s beauty, but visiting in person reveals Bled really is as charming and delightful as it looks.

You’ll spot a medieval-style castle, gleaming mountain ranges, and a majestic church steeple decorating the skyline. Hike around the lake, drink warm beverages by the fire, or nestle in for a good book. Just don’t expect to read long; the views will captivate your imagination more than any page.

6. Dinan, France

In the south of France, the small town of Dinan welcomes visitors with its picture-perfect aesthetic. The cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture lend a special charm to the wintry months — and especially the holidays. You’ll want to try the cheeses, wine, and other local delicacies, all while breathing in the fresh, crisp winter air as you make your way along the waterfront or meander through the town. This medieval town is filled to the brim with historical sites, beautiful buildings, and even sounds of Breton: a Celtic language that’s still spoken in Dinan and other French towns.

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany, during the winter time. — Lena Serditova / Shutterstock

7. Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany

The small town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, offers you some of the most picture-worthy sights on the continent. Its unique architecture and colorful buildings — with its diverse facades — will have you daydreaming about medieval times in the old town area that’s been preserved for centuries. The town transforms into a winter wonderland in December, with cozy taverns and streets adorned with magical lights, but it’s the glowing fires, beautiful markets, and snow-dusted rooftops that fill this small city with utter beauty all winter long. You’ll feel like you’re in the good parts of the Grimm fairy tales with every step you take.

8. Mostar, Bosnia And Herzegovina

If you want to visit an off-the-beaten path spot in Europe, a trip to the enchanting town of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina is in order. The striking beauty of the Neretva River and the historic Stari Most, or Old Bridge, in town will stop you in your tracks in summer. But in winter, the piercing beauty is almost otherworldly. Make your way through town on some casual strolls, and you’ll find yourself surrounded with historical beauty, stunning sights, and storybook evenings.

Want to celebrate the holidays abroad? Here’s how to plan a Christmas markets road trip in Europe.

New Orleans’s Best Hidden Gem Restaurants

There’s no doubt about it: New Orleans is one of the top cities in America when it comes to cuisine. The Big Easy is world-renowned for its blend of cultures, fabulous music, and diet-busting food. While there are the touristy spots — including crowd-pleasers Café Du Monde, Commander’s Palace, and Brennan’s — New Orleans is also home to lesser-known eateries well worth checking out.

Here are some of the Big Easy’s culinary hidden gems.

Jacques-Imo’s Café

With its festive, quirky atmosphere and incredible menu, Jacques-Imo’s Café is worth a visit (or even two) during your time in New Orleans. Located on Oak Street in the city’s Uptown neighborhood, this place is a local favorite, so you’ll want to arrive early. Even then, prepare to wait a while for a table. The bar opens into the dining room, and often, you’ll be escorted through the bustling kitchen to your table. We’ve seen this place so packed that the owner pulled his pickup truck up to the sidewalk, threw a plastic table in its bed, and served four customers a full meal there! We’re not sure if that was up to code — or even legal — but it gives you an idea of just how tasty the dishes are, and how laid-back the service is.

From alligator cheesecake (not a dessert!) to fried grits, po’boys, and, of course, gumbo, you’ll get a true taste of southern Louisiana at this spot. Wash it all down with an Abita beer or two, and you’ll have a dining experience you won’t soon forget.

Cooter Brown’s

Sometimes, even when you’re on vacation, all you want is a spot to settle in, grab some beers and pub grub, and watch the big game. If this is the case, go where the locals hang out: Cooter Brown’s. This neighborhood watering hole, located in the Black Pearl area near the Riverbend, features more than 80 beers on tap, a good menu, and a laid-back vibe. But it’s really known for its raw bar. That’s where freshly harvested Louisiana Gulf oysters are popped open right in front of you, plopped on a tray of ice, and are ready for eating within minutes. Dress these delicious, briny treats with fresh lemon, mix your own cocktail sauce to optimum spice with horseradish, and slurp away!

Taqueria Corona

To get your taco fix in New Orleans, head to Taqueria Corona on Magazine Street. This is the perfect place to go after exploring Magazine’s many shops and boutiques. The neighborhood taqueria is lauded for its fantastic fish tacos and top-shelf margaritas, and everything is made fresh to order. While Taqueria Corona has grown since its founding in 1988 to include two other locations, it retains its commitment to both quality and service — and its homey feel. The prices are quite reasonable, and a stop at Taqueria Corona will leave you full and ready for the rest of your day’s adventures.

N7

The French- and Japanese-inspired N7, located in the Bywater neighborhood, is a true hidden gem. Tucked away in an industrial cul-de-sac behind a tall wooden privacy fence, the restaurant is barely marked. Once you’re in, though, the magic happens.

N7 — named for the Nationale 7 highway that once ran from Paris to the Italian border — is a delight. Its wine list is focused on smaller European winemakers; there is indoor, outdoor, and garden seating; and the fabulous menu features savory tartines, house-made charcuterie, and a number of vegetable-forward dishes. For a special Francophile treat, order a can of imported seafood including sardines or escargot; the restaurant calls this “can-to-table service.” Meals are served tapas-style, so be sure to hang on to a menu in case you decide to order another round.

Nine Roses Café

As we mentioned before, New Orleans is a melting pot. Large groups of Vietnamese people came to the city after the fall of Saigon in 1975 and have left their culinary mark on the Big Easy. To sample some of their best dishes, head to Nine Roses Café in the French Quarter.

At Nine Roses, the salads, rice and noodle entrées, and traditional pho (Vietnamese beef broth) are menu favorites. The first location in Gretna was founded by Tu Nguyen more than 25 years ago. Her children have since taken up the mantle and opened a sister café in the Quarter, but every once in a while, Mama Tu will show up in the kitchen. This is a place where family traditions and love for good food are nearly palpable. When you’re ready for a break from gumbo, this is the perfect place to visit.

Killer PoBoys

You simply must try po’boys while you’re in New Orleans. These massive sandwiches, served on crusty white bread and usually featuring fried seafood, are as popular as gumbo, étouffée, and dirty rice. For a contemporary twist on these gut-busting classics, head to Killer PoBoys on Dauphine Street or its smaller pop-up version inside the Erin Rose Bar. Both are located in the Quarter. Fillings for these fancier po’boys include roasted sweet potatoes, seared shrimp, pork belly, and house-made chorizo. Trust us — this is the best place to eat after a late night out!

High Hat Café

To get a true taste of the Mississippi Delta and southern Louisiana, head to High Hat Café in Uptown. This unassuming but amazing neighborhood spot features authentic cuisine at reasonable prices. Don’t skip the shrimp remoulade or the fried chicken and catfish, and if you’re lucky enough to be there on a Monday, be sure to order the traditional red beans and rice. The Delta tamales and pimento cheese are surefire Southern crowd-pleasers as well.

High Hat also serves up a weekend brunch that includes chicken and waffles, corned beef hash, and cornmeal pancakes. There’s also a full bar and wine list — this is New Orleans, after all!

Brigtsen’s Restaurant

For classic Creole cuisine with modern flair, Brigtsen’s Restaurant in Uptown can’t be beat. Tucked away in a Victorian cottage, the restaurant has won dozens of awards since it opened in 1986. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but the seafood here really shines, as do the game dishes like rabbit and duck. Most items are locally sourced from nearby farms and waters. The restaurant’s offerings include classic bread pudding, pecan pie with caramel sauce, and lemon icebox crème brûlée, so make sure to save plenty of room for dessert!

North Broad Seafood

Have your heart set on a boiled crawfish feast? North Broad Seafood has got you covered. It’s a grab-and-go place in Mid-City that offers a selection of boiled seafood plus side dishes like corn and potatoes, gumbo, grits, and red beans and rice. It also offers a variety of beers and sodas, and you’ll pay for your seafood by the pound. Keep in mind that there’s no table service, but the food is terrific, and North Broad is a hands-down favorite with the locals. Don’t forget to grab wipes to clean up your hands after your meal. Ask for them at the counter.

Bittersweet Confections

Sometimes you just need to satisfy your sweet tooth, and Bittersweet Confections on Magazine Street in the Warehouse District is the perfect place to do just that. While the bakery does quite a bit of custom-cake business, it also offers truffles, chocolates, cupcakes, cookies, and tarts. During Carnival season, Bittersweet also cranks out king cakes, a New Orleans favorite. Grab a few pastries to go, or stay for a cup of coffee and savor your sweet treat in the shop. Either way, you’ll enjoy some of the best dessert the city has to offer. These are vacation calories, after all — they don’t count!

Headed to New Orleans? Check out these eight little-known attractions and these 12 totally free things to do in the city. If you want to hear some great jazz music while you’re there, be sure to stop by some of these venues.

A Moment In Time: Walking My Menorca Footsteps 40 Years Later

Menorca, Spain, is a jewel — a Balearic island emerging from the waters of the Mediterranean about eight hours by ferry from Barcelona. There are numerous reasons for visiting the island. It is a quiet and serene place, largely protected from development since being named a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993. It is easier to navigate and less frenetic than its famous (and much larger) neighbor, Majorca. Menorca’s culture is purely Catalan, but all across the island you feel the remnants and ghosts of its Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic past.

But Menorca’s beauty, history, and unique topography were not the main reasons for my return there, some 40 years after I had originally visited.

I returned to Menorca in order to revisit a time, a place, and a person — and to share an experience that fueled my love of exploring the world with my 27-year-old daughter, a budding traveler herself.

Barbara in Sa Mesquida in the early 1980s. — Barbara Winard

Finding My Travel Guru

I first met Joy about 50 years ago, when I started a job as a writer for New York City’s public television station. Joy was about 15 years older than I was, and she fit the bill for a dear mother/friend. Joy had done it all and seen it all, and she was enthusiastic about my journey, too. She and her husband had traveled the world from the 1940s on, and they did it the hard way: cheaply and ruggedly.

Her one immovable overseas destination was a house that she and her husband had built in the 1960s on the island of Menorca. A photograph of that house — a one-story stone building perched on a cliff next to the ruins of an ancient tower — held a place of honor in her New York City home.

In the early 1980s Joy invited me to visit her in Menorca, and I flew from Barcelona to the island without telling her exactly when I was arriving. I headed for a phone booth to ask her to pick me up at the airport. But it turned out that there was no phone book or, as I soon learned, even a phone. I didn’t have her address, so I wandered the streets of Menorca’s capital city, Mahon, until I figured out what to do.

Eventually I convinced a taxi driver to drive to the small town where she lived, and I recognized her house from the photograph on her New York City wall. I walked into a festive party, and the rest of my time there was filled with Joy’s warmth and a houseful of her friends. I remember exploring the megalithic monuments dotting the roads, hanging out at a bar in Mahon where we drank and sang, taking motorcycle rides through the countryside, and walking down the hill to a pristine beach.

Almost four decades have passed since then. About a year ago, my daughter and I talked about traveling to a Spanish-speaking country so she could practice her Spanish. All at once I knew that I would take her to Menorca.

Jana and her mother, Barbara, near Joy’s house in 2018. — Barbara Winard

Traveling To Plumb The Past

We rented rooms above a restaurant overlooking the port in Mahon and wandered the streets of the city. In the mornings we studied Spanish (most of the 93,000 people who live there speak both Catalan and Spanish). In the afternoons, we headed out to explore ruins, beaches, and towns in Menorca’s interior and on the coasts.

My kid loved the island immediately. Things had changed; there were more tourists and expats than I remembered, more vacation homes and new buildings. But what Menorca was had not changed. Its standing stones still stand; the pine-studded cliffs still overlook the beaches; the 13th-century church in the Old Town of Ciutadella still looms; the ruins from Menorca’s diverse past still dot the island.

Because of the efforts to preserve its natural beauty and diversity, the ponds, lagoons, marshes, and dunes of the island are home to thousands of species of birds and plants. Also preserved are mysterious burial sites called talayots and navetas from the Bronze Age and earlier. Trepuco, near Mahon, contains the largest and best-preserved taula (stone monuments, from the Catalan word for “table”) in the Balearic islands. As opposed to visiting the archaeological sites of other countries, we could examine these ruins up close with no barriers.

Joy’s house in Sa Mesquida in 2018. — Barbara Winard

But I saved the best for the sunniest and clearest day. We drove to Sa Mesquida to visit Joy’s house. As we approached, I spotted it — right past the old tower, on the cliff. The house was a different color but was instantly recognizable.

I suddenly felt caught in a time warp: at once suffused with memories of the past but also seeing with new eyes, aware that I now had a different life and a suitcase packed with four decades of experience. We parked the car and stood and gazed at the house for a long time — quietly. Then we hiked down to the sea. There were just a few people on the beach. My daughter and I walked on the hot sand, appreciating the solitude and the breeze. She stopped to hug me, saying nothing. We stood that way for a very long time.

The beach at Sa Mesquida in 2018. — Barbara Winard

Travel As A Continuum

It became clear to me that this journey provided a direct link between my young self and the person I’ve become. It also forged new connections with my daughter. Not only did I share my life experiences with her; the journey also provided her with her own stories to share with her future family. We have traveled together several times since our Menorca journey, and I can see that her travel wings have taken hold.

Travel, for me — and I believe for her, too — is so much more than seeing the sights and adding stamps to our passports. Travel is also paying respect to the past and to the people we have loved. I had mistakenly believed that, since there are so many places to see in the world, there was no reason to return to those visited in the past. I was wrong. It now seems to me that by setting off on a road already traveled, there is the possibility that we may come to better understand where we have started and how far we have come.

Pining for the coast of Spain? These are the best things to see and do in nearby Palma de Mallorca.

The Best Things To See And Do In Fargo, North Dakota

Chances are you’ve heard of Fargo, North Dakota. North Dakota’s largest city was made famous around the country in 1996 when it served as the setting for the eponymous Coen Brothers movie that earned Frances McDormand her first Oscar.

But even before its cinematic debut, Fargo played an important role in the Midwest. It’s a historic frontier town that once served as a fur-trading post, and it earns 50 percent of the credit for Wells Fargo Bank.

A thriving, artsy city steeped in Nordic, Native American, and pioneer traditions, Fargo is a delightful stop in the Sioux State that ought not to be overlooked.

Explore The Downtown Area

Every trip to Fargo should begin in the city’s trendy, vibrant, revitalized downtown area, the place where the frontier town was born. Fargo’s main artery is undoubtedly Broadway. The thoroughfare served as the commercial heart of the city for years, and today it is a diner’s and shopper’s paradise lined with boutique shops, cafés, bars, and more. Much of the city’s downtown revitalization efforts have focused on Broadway and Main Avenue.

If you like street art, the area offers tons of it, all produced by local artists. Fargo is covered in art, from gorgeous street murals to decorated electrical boxes. Don’t miss Art Alley, or First Avenue North between Fourth and Fifth Streets.

The Fargo Theater in Fargo, North Dakota. — David Harmantas / Shutterstock

Enjoy An Evening At The Theater

While you’re on Broadway, don’t miss one of the city’s iconic gems — the Fargo Theatre, an Art Deco movie theater that was constructed in 1926. If you look at a photo of downtown Fargo, chances are the marquee of the theater will be somewhere in the background. The theater was built for cinema and vaudeville, but today, it offers independent and foreign films. The venue also hosts a concert series and other events. The theater is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a treat to take in.

Note that the only way to see the inside of the theater is to purchase a ticket, so be sure to check the calendar of events before your next trip to Fargo — there is so much to choose from! Matinees cost $7.50, while evening showings cost $9.50. Special events have different pricing.

Get Artsy

The Plains Art Museum in Fargo features a cross-section of artistic styles, from American Modernist to traditional and contemporary Native American. The permanent collection features about 4,000 works of art from around the world, including traditional Native American works of art and artifacts, contemporary art, photography, and more. Be sure to check out the visiting exhibits, including Brad Kahlhamer’s A Nation of One, which will be on display through the end of January.

The museum, which is located in a renovated historic warehouse, is also home to the Katherine Kilbourne Burgum Center for Creativity, a multipurpose arts facility that offers classes for the community as well as a space for learning and discussion.

The best part about the museum? Admission is completely free.

Inside the Fargo Air Museum in Fargo, North Dakota. — Fargo Air Museum

Hit New Heights

The Fargo Air Museum is Heaven on Earth for airplane aficionados. The sky’s the limit at the museum, which hosts a rotating exhibit of historic, flyable planes. You’ll see a North American P-51 Mustang outfitted with a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine and best known as a World War II fighter plane. You’ll also see Duggy, a Douglas DC-3 built in 1939 that served in World War II. A replica of the Wright Flyer is also on display. The museum showcases military memorabilia and is home to one of the largest aviation libraries in the Midwest. Admission starts at $8 for adults.

Bonanzaville in Fargo, North Dakota. — Bonanzaville

Take A Step Back In Time

History buffs will love the glimpse into the past that Bonanzaville provides. The 12-acre living history museum brings to life the time when bonanza farms were scattered across the North Dakota prairie in the late 19th century. It includes nearly every type of structure and business that would have existed in the region at the time, from blacksmith shops to log cabins, general stores, banks, and barbershops. Tickets start at $12 for adults. Keep in mind that the museum and village are open only during the spring and summer months, from May through September.

Spend Some Time In The Great Outdoors

When the weather is right in Fargo, getting outside to experience the wide-open, blue-skied prairie is a must. Lindenwood Park is Fargo’s largest park, complete with landscaped campgrounds, bike and kayak rentals, walking paths, and picnic shelters. The park sits on the banks of the Red River, which separates North Dakota from Minnesota. In the winter the park becomes a popular place for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Eating In Fargo

If you’ve come to Fargo for the food, you’ve done well. Foodies passing through Fargo are in for a real treat, from old-school favorites to modern-day delights. Fargo’s kitchens and craft breweries are always cooking up something new and exciting (or nostalgic and comforting, if that’s your thing).

Sandy’s Donuts & Coffee Shop

Satisfy that sweet tooth at one of Fargo’s favorites. The story behind Sandy’s Donuts & Coffee Shop is a true American comeback tale. In 1983, Sandy Ostlund lost his job running a trucking company. He was 55 years old and decided to start over, this time opening and running a donut shop. Today, Sandy’s Donuts is more than a simple donut shop — it’s a donut empire with four locations across Fargo. The company even delivers! Go with a classic dark chocolate iced donut, or try something more unusual like the red velvet cake donut.

BernBaum’s

If you prefer your breakfast on the savory side, head to BernBaum’s for the city’s best bagels. The New York-style bagels with Scandinavian flair (a nod to North Dakota’s Northern European heritage) are made fresh daily. There are even gluten-free and vegan options. The Iceland bagel plate comes with lox, gravlax, and cucumber with a chèvre schmear. There are also sandwiches and small plates like knishes, latkes, and blini.

Mezzaluna

Elegant cocktails, black linen tablecloths, dark wood, and an industrial brick exterior set the tone at the fine-dining restaurant Mezzaluna. The restaurant lives in the 1917 Smith, Follett & Crowl building and retains its original wood floors, beams, and ceiling. Known as one of the best restaurants in North Dakota, Mezzaluna offers elevated American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Think bone-in pork chops, cumin-roasted garlic risotto, bacon-wrapped bison meatloaf, chive fettuccine, truffle fries, and more.

Craft Breweries

Fargo’s beverage of choice is most certainly beer. Believe it or not, there are 10 breweries located within the city. Craft beer has become quite the Fargo tradition, and the best places to sample the local brews are the breweries themselves. Drekker Brewing Company, for example, is set in a large hall, a nod to the Norse roots of the region. Drumconrath Brewing Company adds an Irish flair to its eight-beer tap list. Live music, food trucks, and trivia round out the offerings.

Shopping In Fargo

Fargo loves its boutique shops. This is the city to visit if you’re after one-of-a-kind mementos and crafts.

Start at Zandbroz Variety. A quirky hodgepodge of books, gifts, scented soaps, coffee mugs, and wrapping paper, this is the best spot for cute gifts and souvenirs.

Broadway is a major thoroughfare for clothing shops such as Kindred People. Kindred People is known for its women’s clothing, accessories, shoes, beauty products, and gifts. Most jewelry and gift items in the store are designed by local or regional artists.

Indulge in all things vinyl at Vinyl Giant Records, which sells new and used vinyl across all genres. It also offers vinyl accessories, new and used turntables, speakers, and home cinema gear.

In the summer, Fargo bursts with color, especially at the farmers markets that pop up throughout the community. Red River Market is the largest, and it offers local food, fresh produce, gifts, and more every Saturday.

Finally, if you’re feeling the call of the Old Country, visit Stabo Scandinavian Imports, which features unique items from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland. Stock up on candy, jewelry, and even the iconic Norwegian troll dolls.