June 28, 2025 • 53 mins
The Wishing Well's Terrie Dean discusses this week's travel news and Hot Deals!
Plus, we'll celebrate Independence Day with a twist! In this episode, we explore unique 4th of July destinations in the U.S. that offer international vibes, from alpine-style mountain towns to tropical island escapes. Perfect for travelers craving cultural flavor without leaving the country.
Plus, we'll celebrate Independence Day with a twist! In this episode, we explore unique 4th of July destinations in the U.S. that offer international vibes, from alpine-style mountain towns to tropical island escapes. Perfect for travelers craving cultural flavor without leaving the country.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
This is a Lifeless Ordinary, the travel show and podcasts
from your friends at the wishing Well two forty three
f Avenue in Harsmurt and online at the wishing Well
dot biz. The wishing Well is your ultimate luxury concierge
travel agency and A Lifeless Ordinary is a travel show
and podcasts hosted by Terry Dean, bringing her over forty
years of experience in the travel industry to help guide
(00:21):
you to great experiences in your travel, whether it be
around the block, around the country, or around the world.
Let's bring in Terry Dean and say hello.
Speaker 2 (00:28):
And there's Chris.
Speaker 1 (00:29):
Hi there.
Speaker 2 (00:30):
How are you.
Speaker 1 (00:31):
I'm well, it's good to see you.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Good to see you. Always good to be here on
a beautiful Saturday, no matter what's going on, it's beautiful
in here.
Speaker 1 (00:38):
I love it. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (00:40):
Well, we're going to talk about travel.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
Well, that's what we do every Saturday morning at this time.
That's why we always always have a smile on our face.
And I'm excited to find out what's been going on
in the past week of travel.
Speaker 2 (00:51):
Ready to roll. Harry, my business partner, is in Spain,
Portugal and finishing up his Morocco cruise with about eighteen
or twenty of his closest new friends.
Speaker 1 (01:05):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (01:05):
So we had a great cruise group that left here
a week ago and they are having a marvelous time.
So I hear he's been photos weather. It's been wonderful. Yes,
and the experiences they've been having are nothing short of
why do we say, out of the ordinary? Yeah, so
definitely lifeless ordinary for those folks.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
I'm jealous.
Speaker 2 (01:29):
Yeah, I know I'm a little jealous too. It's been
very busy at the Wishing Well and we've got some
news we want to talk about with you folks today.
And thank you everybody for joining us. I know you
could be doing anything with your Saturday. I'm glad you're
somewhere where it's cool right now. You got a cup
of coffee, you kicked back, ready to hear about some
great travel information. So we're going to start with some news.
(01:53):
We have something that's coming to us from a border entry.
And as we head through this summer right now, we're
getting a lot of information floating in about how busy
it is at airports and that kind of thing. And
although crowds swell at airports during the summer, lines are
only getting faster. Thanks to new processes that were adopted
(02:16):
this month. Global entry got even faster at seven US
airports thanks to a new process called Seamless Border Entry,
which actually scans passengers faces as they continue to move
through the checkpoint. Now. TSA PreCheck said it would be
launching its touchless ID program at more airports this summer,
(02:40):
including Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland in partnership with Alaska Airlines,
as well as Atlanta, New York, LaGuardia, Salt Lake City,
and Washington, d C in collaboration with American Airlines. This
touchless ID allows pre check members to use a facial
(03:00):
scan to move through the security checkpoint instead of presenting
a traditional boarding pass and ID. And speaking of airport IDs,
the TSA reminded travelers this month that their cost Co
membership card does not count as a valid real ID.
(03:22):
But the cost that was hilarious.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
But the cost Co card is great for everything else,
for everything else. Yeah, so it's this touchless ID. I'm
assuming I'm still going through the inspection process. This just
gets me through into that part fast, a bit faster.
Speaker 2 (03:37):
Yeah, the lines are going to move a little bit
faster now that they've got facial recognition and that kind
of thing. So yeah, I think it's kind of cool.
I mean, anything that saves travelers some time at the airports.
I know they're all in favor of that, So at
least most people are.
Speaker 1 (03:52):
Anything that would not require me to be there three
hours before the flight leaves, I'm in favor of.
Speaker 2 (03:57):
Yeah, well, don't look for that anytime you are going
to have to be there early. Chris. Sorry. Also some
news from TSA. Continuing on that line of news, they've
issued a new warning for airport travelers. Again with the
busy summer season underway, TSA is warning globetrotters about the
dangers of using USB chargers at airports. I thought this
(04:23):
was really interesting. Now. According to TSA, travelers should avoid
charging their electtronic devices via the USB ports that are
now commonplace at a lot of airports around the country
and the world because of the potential malware these ports
might contain. That's news to me. I did not know
(04:44):
that was even possible.
Speaker 1 (04:45):
Yeah, don't ever use public charging station.
Speaker 2 (04:47):
Well yeah, according to TSA, hackers can install malware at
USB ports. This advisory goes on to state that when
you're at an airport, do not plug your phone directly
into a USB B port, bring your tsa compliant power
brick or battery pack and plug in there. Now, that
same advisory also contains a warning from the government agency
(05:11):
about free public Wi Fi available at most airports here too.
The concern is that hackers can access your personal information
unbeknownst to you, the travelers, So don't use free public
Wi Fi, especially if you're planning to make any online purchases,
and do not ever enter any sensitive information when you
(05:35):
are using unsecure WiFi. So I thought that was good advice.
A lot of people are going to be filling up
the airports, some delays might take place. I mean we
see now pretty often storms in our system and in
our atmosphere. It has a trickle down effect, so sometimes
people are sitting in the airports for undo amounts of
time waiting on their next flight to take off.
Speaker 1 (05:57):
I bought one of those little charger bricks. I don't
know what they're called. Yeah, poor power pat Yeah, and
you get three charges out of it or something.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
I carry that whenever I travel.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
Good for you?
Speaker 1 (06:06):
Yeah, way, I'm not because I've known this for a
long time and even when I was in the emergency room.
I wouldn't plug it into the little charging because you know,
there's just people out there with bad intentions. Yeah, there
really are, and they take advantage of you because they
know people need to charge.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
I thought it was bad enough that they used to
do that at the gas stations. You know that, those
those strippers on the pumps at gas station.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
I'm always a wiggling I'm trying to see it.
Speaker 2 (06:31):
I've had I've had my identity stolen just that way.
Really well, a credit card compromise because of that. Yes,
So don't you know I don't pay at the pumps
anymore for gas. I take cash in I go. I want,
you know, forty dollars on pump four, And that's how
I get my gas anymore. I never do it at
the pump, even with the tap. I just don't do it.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
No, I did the tap.
Speaker 2 (06:53):
Yeah. Well, anyway, more news. Disney is laying some groundwork
for it's a massive new Florida theme park expansion. But
I thought this story was very interesting because Disney's being
very guarded about this information. I thought that was kind
of odd. But Disney laid the groundwork for developing a
new major theme park along with two minor parks in Orlando, Florida.
(07:17):
And that's not all. Those plans also include new resort hotels, shopping,
dining areas, and an eighteen whole golf course. The news
comes nearly three decades after Disney's last major Florida park opening, which,
for those of you who don't remember, was the arrival
of Animal Kingdom in nineteen ninety eight ago. Yeah, that
(07:39):
was a while ago. The total area that is now
likely to be developed amounts to about twenty six hundred acres.
Of that space, the major park would cover about five
hundred acres, and the other minor parks would require about
three hundred of those acres. Now to be clear, however,
this was the interesting part. Disney has no made a
(08:00):
commitment to developing these parks. The plans on file simply
provide Disney with options should the entertainment giant decide to
move forward. But it did make the news, so somehow
this has got to be churning in the works somewhere. Moreover,
the plans for the new editions are for the next
twenty years, actually stretching until twenty forty five. I can
(08:24):
assure you I will not be in this industry probably
then probably won't be, but in any event, in twenty
twenty four, Florida's governor agreed to allow Disney to move
forward with plans to invest up to seventeen billion dollars
in its Orlando location. For its part, Disney has been
(08:46):
mum on this news and did not respond to request
for comment on this report. So be interesting to see
what actually happens there, whether they will or won't do
this ext.
Speaker 1 (09:00):
You know, we love Disney, we do. We talk about
them a lot here on a Lifeless Ordinary. If your
interest in Disney, Disney travel, you just want to hear
us talk about Disney, go to the wishing Well dot
biz website and in the upper right hand corner you'll
find the little Hamburger menu. You click on that, click
on a Lifeless Ordinary, and then there's a search bar
(09:20):
you can put in Disney all the past podcasts that
we've talked.
Speaker 2 (09:24):
About yeah, where we've mentioned it. Yeah, So that's all good.
So how about some sales, yeah, yeah, so one of
them I just absolutely had to bring today because talk
about things we've talked about in the past here on
a Lifeless Ordinary. Nima Colan has been they earned my
heart when I was there recently, and they are actually
(09:45):
having a sale, which is very unusual for them. Summer
has just begun, but Nima Colan's best offer of the
season is just almost about to expire. You can reserve
your space now at Nima Colan and save twenty five
percent on your next sale fare next day. Whether you're
(10:06):
craving a last minute summer getaway or planning ahead for
the holidays, you're going to be glad you seized this
magical opportunity. I will tell you though, this is going
to disappear on June the thirtieth, but if you book it,
your valid stays can take you all the way through
December thirtieth of this year. So twenty five percent off
(10:29):
at Nima Coolan is nothing to sneeze at. That is
a great sale and if you're interested, would love, love
love to help you out with that. The other sale
that I had, not unusual, comes from our friends at
Viking Cruise Line. Right now, a lot of people wait
for these offers. They have up to free airfare up
(10:50):
to one thousand dollars shipboard credit on some of their offerings.
They have that free Silver Spirits beverage package that almost
never happens with Viking, but if you're interested in that,
they usually always do beering wine with lunch and dinner. Okay,
but when they have the Silver Spirits beverage package available,
(11:10):
that means free cocktails all day long, it's pretty much
open bar. So a lot of people like that. Yes
they do, and it's also including your gratuities, which also
is something that Viking does not do very often. And
not only that, but a twenty five dollars deposit will
hold your adventure. And some of them that came up
(11:33):
on this list that were pretty popular. Ones that we
see a lot at the Wishing Well that we book
are the Run Getaway. They're doing a two for one airfare,
the free beverage package five hundred dollars shipboard credit and
included gratuities. The Grand European Tour free airfare, that free
beverage package one thousand dollars shipboard credit and included gratuities.
(11:56):
But that is only on select June through August departures
of twenty twenty six, so you really have to if
you're going to want to exercise that call me for
the details on Some of doesn't apply to every ship.
Every sailing. It's isolated, but if you can land it,
it's a great deal.
Speaker 1 (12:15):
And that phone number is five four h nine eight
twenty three thirty three if you want to give Terry
a kom absolutely our show this week has to do
with Independence Day, it true does. It's entitled Fourth of
July Destinations that Feel International. And I'm really curious about
this because I think we don't do international very well
(12:36):
in the US, so I'm thinking maybe somewhere well.
Speaker 2 (12:41):
I'll tell you why I leaped into this is because
a lot of folks right now, because of some things
that are going on in the world, they're a little
shy about, you know, traveling into the international forefront right now.
So I thought, for those people who are really interested
in an international vibe, and you've got some time over
(13:01):
the fourth of July, I've got the perfect places for
you right here in the good old US Bay.
Speaker 1 (13:06):
I'm like cracking my brand, thinking may be somewhere close
to the Canadian border. Okay, uh, maybe Hawaii? No, okay,
maybe I should stick around thirty more seconds and we'll
all find out together.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
I think that's it's coming up next year on Our
Life Less Ordinary.
Speaker 3 (13:22):
Who would think of driving off to a new destination
without guidance from Google or Syria. Not the Wishing World
guide your next travel experience.
Speaker 1 (13:30):
Travel the world as you enjoy the very.
Speaker 3 (13:32):
Best destinations and all they offer at the best prices.
Our mobile travel app keeps your vacation on track and
keeps you connected with our team of experts.
Speaker 1 (13:40):
For help.
Speaker 3 (13:40):
If you need it, call us at five four zero
nine zero eight two three three three stop, buy two
forty three nef avenue, or visit us at the Wishingwell
dot biz.
Speaker 1 (13:51):
Hey, welcome back to a life less Ordinary, the travel
showing podcasts from your friends at the Wishing Well in Harrisonburg.
You can find them on nef Avenue, also online at
the wish Well dot biz, or give them a call
at five four h nine oh eight twenty three thirty three.
All Right, So I was trying to rack my brain
of these international destinations that are inside the United States.
(14:12):
Our show today is fourth of July. Destinations that feel
international and terry. You've got answers I do.
Speaker 2 (14:18):
And probably some of these, Chris are going to be
some very unlikely, maybe some places that you've never even
heard of before. I enjoyed the research on this because
it opened up my eyes also to a lot of
hidden gems here within the United States, where if you
(14:40):
just can't get across the pond, if it's just too inconvenient,
if you don't have a passport, or you know, you're
just a little skiddish right now about travel internationally, this
is such a great option for people who have any
one of those things as objections to being able to
travel internationally. Right now and again, I want to say
(15:03):
welcome back to everybody, to a lifeless ordinary. We like
to take you on a ride every Saturday where imagination
really takes flight, and every journey feels like a passport
stamp on your soul. And we're here faithfully to spend
every Saturday with you. And today it's all about vacation
(15:25):
time because it's the nation's birthday. Happy Birthday, USA.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
We only had to wait two hundred and forty nine
years to get to this. I know, right, I've got
more guesses. Okay, I'm thinking maybe something in Texas, Okay,
because of its proximity to Mexico. Okay, so maybe some
Latin vibes, you know, maybe Wisconsin for some German vibes.
And I don't know where we find maybe Italian vibes,
(15:51):
but I'm sure they're at all New.
Speaker 2 (15:52):
York City that list. You know, this is great.
Speaker 1 (15:54):
Okay, Well little Italy in New York or Chinatown in
San Francisco. All right, go ahead.
Speaker 2 (15:59):
I'm really gonna go on a journey across the United
States to places that really feel international. I've got Bavarian villages,
I've got Danish on Clayton, everything from New Orleans jazz, yeah,
to Grecian coastal vibes. So this is your time to
(16:21):
pack your camera, your passport, your cup of coffee, put
your feet up. We're gonna have a little journey.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Okay, let's go.
Speaker 2 (16:30):
So the first one that was actually a little bit
of a surprise to me is a beautiful place called Helen, Georgia.
And I'm calling this particular little area stars, stripes and Strudel. Okay, yeah,
Helen Georgia, Chris is actually designed to resemble a Bavarian
(16:52):
alpine town. If you look it up, that's what you see.
I mean, it really looks like a Bavarian town, truly
unique European style atmosphere. And how do they do that? Well,
it was all achieved through architectural styles. They've got these
great building designs many of the cultural elements that they've
(17:13):
incorporated into the town's layout and infrastructure. Specifically, the town's
buildings feature those unmistakable Bavarian timbered facades. They've got beautiful,
colorful shutters, steep pitched roofs, all of which are really
reminiscent of traditional German architecture, and some even include German lettering.
(17:37):
The town also hosts an annual Octoberfest celebration, further enhancing
its European field. This place is adorable, isn't it. I mean,
it's just gorgeous. Helen Georgia, who knew, well they did. Yeah,
but they also have a great way of celebrating the
(17:59):
Fourth of July. Yes, Helen Georgia hosts an annual Fourth
of July celebration that includes a spectacular fireworks display over
the Chattahoochee River. The fireworks are typically set off at
about dusks sometime between nine pm and nine thirty behind
the Alpine Village shops and the Helen Welcome Center, and
(18:22):
the event draws large crowds, so arriving early is really
recommended so you can secure a really good viewing spot.
Now In addition to those fireworks, the town might also
have other festivities planned like live music. They've got great
food vendors of course, and activities for kids of all ages.
(18:44):
The Hellendorf River Inn, Sweets and Conference Center also hosts
a Fourth of July celebration and they include a barbecue,
drinks and music. They have polka bands, German food, and
fireworks all over the Chattahoochee. So beautiful little town. What's
(19:04):
your take on this, Chris?
Speaker 1 (19:06):
It reminds me of bush gardens, and they even do
it looks like Christmas. They do some fun stuff too.
I would go here, I would spend time here. My
wife and I would enjoy this.
Speaker 2 (19:18):
Wouldn't you? And I mean it would give you sort
of the presence that you've left the United States and
entered Bavaria and Germany. I mean, I love it. Now.
If you want to know where to stay, you and
your wife, if you're going to go Valhalla Resort Hotel,
you simply have to look this up. It's a mountain
(19:39):
view retreat with European spa. It's got a castle like ambiance.
It was inspired by the owner's Scottish heritage and their
desire to kind of bring a luxury experience to these
North Georgia mountains and the resort opened in twenty seventeen.
It's designed to actually evoke kind of a Scottish castle
(20:02):
and it features twenty five King sweets. It's got a
rooftop bar, a spa and a wine cellar. It is
amazing and dining in Helen, Georgia. So if you're in
town that takes its inspiration from Austria and Bavaria, what
kind of cuisine do you think you'd expect to find.
Speaker 1 (20:23):
I've ever get some veenerschniss.
Speaker 2 (20:27):
So Boden Sea Restaurant is great for schnitzel, spasil and
German beerhon Helen, Georgia is the first on my list
today for great places to go. Feel like you're traveling
internationally but be able to celebrate the fourth of July
(20:49):
instill good old American style.
Speaker 1 (20:51):
They've got a motel called the Heidi Motel and it
has a windmill outside.
Speaker 2 (20:55):
Isn't that beautiful.
Speaker 1 (20:56):
The Hellendorff River enn I just want to go now
because of all the names. My family is German. I
know my granmother is about this. My grandmother is from Austria.
Speaker 2 (21:05):
So you must go I must to Helen, Georgia and
experience a little bit of Bavaria and have that without,
you know, without the stamp on your passport. Who cares?
Speaker 1 (21:15):
I like it?
Speaker 2 (21:16):
You know I do too. I think it's great. So
the next place we're going to roam off to here
is on the completely other side of the country, and
this is a place called Solvang, California. It has got
Danish charm in wine country, You've got wind meals, you've
(21:37):
got pastries, an old world charm in California's Santa Ynez Valley. Right, yeah,
I love it.
Speaker 1 (21:45):
Ye see, I'm looking.
Speaker 2 (21:46):
It's great. Solvang, California feels like a European town actually,
primarily due to this strong Danish heritage and again the
architecture choices there that have inspired it. Founded by Danish
immigrants in nineteen eleven, this town has numerous Danish style buildings,
(22:08):
including those half timbered houses again with the thatched roofs,
decorative street signs, and European style street lamps. Additionally, solving
features windmills where do we see windmills? Holland of course, yeah,
and replicas of Danish landmarks like that little Mermaid statue.
(22:29):
That you would see in the Netherlands, and cultural events
like folk music, traditional dress, all contributing to this very
very unique ambiance. So tell us, Chris, what's your take
on this? Well?
Speaker 1 (22:44):
I love it. It's like every restaurant has a windmill
built on top of it. This is amazing and it's colorful.
It is it's so pretty. Yeah, no, I might have
to go to this instead of Helen.
Speaker 2 (22:59):
So this is a California though you have to fly
a little bit further Georgia. You could drive to this one,
you're gonna have to fly. But what do they do
for the Fourth of July. Well, they've got a Danish parade,
they have a concert in the park and vineyard fireworks.
They celebrate the fourth of July with a parade in
a festival at the Old Mission. They feature fireworks there.
(23:22):
The day begins with the Solvang Rotaries annual Independence Day parade.
They follow that with a big barbecue in Solvang Park
and the festival at the Old Mission. Santa Annez includes
live entertainment. They have food vendors and a kid zone
which all culminates in a fireworks show. Now, if you
(23:44):
want to know where to stay, here, as far as
luxury stays, there's only one place that I would recommend.
It's called The Landsby. It's a modern Scandinavian hotel. Honored
as the number one Best Small Town in the West
by USA Today's twenty twenty five ten Best Reader's Choice Awards.
(24:05):
The Landsby is a stylish escape in the Santa Anez Valley.
One of the premiere solving hotels near Los Olvos. The
Lansby offers fifty one boutique guest rooms. They've got warm
hospitality there, stylish accommodations. Their intimate hotel really has a clean,
(24:27):
contemporary design, I would say, with a hint of traditional
Scandinavian aesthetic, inviting guests to a one of a kind
stay in that California one country.
Speaker 1 (24:38):
It looks like a place where you'd film a movie, I.
Speaker 2 (24:41):
Know, right, And they may have. They very well may
have there. It is so so quaint, so beautiful.
Speaker 1 (24:46):
This courtyard with the trees and the little party lights
strung in them and everything oh so pretty.
Speaker 2 (24:51):
Yeah, it's lovely. And our show today really is going
to follow kind of a pattern here or really, because
I'm going to tell you about what the town is,
how they most look like Europe. We're going to then
talk about how they celebrate the Fourth of July. We
of course are going to talk about these incredible places
(25:12):
to stay, and then we're going to talk about dining.
And I don't want to leave that off at Solvang
because there's a place called First and Oak. It's a
Michelin recommended fine dining place. It's a food critic recently
wrote about his first visit at First and Oak. I
left the restaurant feeling full to the brim and relaxed
(25:35):
with a sensation I hadn't experienced since my first time
in Paris. If you eat the right food, listen to
the right music, and enjoy the right stories from the
right person France at First and Oak will seep right
into your skin. That's what I found at First and Oak,
(25:55):
and he says, go find it for yourself. The other
place that comes highly recommended is a place called Mortensen's
Bakery for pastries. Now, as for Morton's Bakery, this quaint
bakery and cafe is still run Chris by its original
owners of over forty years. They still use the old
(26:17):
world recipes from Ov Mortensen, who is one of the owners.
A Danish baker from Copenhagen, Denmark, and it's still an
all time favorite. So all the reasons why you should
put Solvang, California on your list of great US places
to visit that feel like you're international.
Speaker 1 (26:40):
And a Vivie was filmed there. It's called Sideways, No
Kidding with Paul Giamani and Thomas Hayden Church. Okay, yeah,
you know, and I'm looking at the pictures and that
looks just like the pictures and the lobby.
Speaker 2 (26:52):
Yeah, so maybe folks who are listening to us this
morning on a life less ordinary have parked on some
of these places and following along on their iPads or
laptops or computers or whatever or your phone. Hopefully you
are please, these are beautiful places.
Speaker 1 (27:10):
And that's so much to be able to see what
you're describing.
Speaker 2 (27:13):
Yeah, it really does kind of bring it all to
the forefront. So next on my list, I don't think
we could really talk about feeling like you're international in
the United States if we didn't talk about one of
my favorite cities of all time, which is New Orleans, Louisiana.
We're going to call this fireworks with a French twist
(27:35):
and You've got a lot of influences here. You've got French,
you've got Spanish, you've got Caribbean, African, Cuban. Now, if
you have never been to New Orleans, multiculturalism is all
that You've got, this rich cultural tapestry. You've got great
mixes of as I said, French, Spanish, American, I'm sorry, African, Creole, Cajun, Irish, German, Haitian,
(28:00):
and all of that comes together in New Orleans. You've
got the European architecture and layout. My goodness, the French
Quarter showcase is stunning, stunning Spanish and French architecture, particularly
the iconic wrought iron balconies and colorful facades that you've
got there. Very reminiscent of European cities too. Like Paris.
(28:23):
You've got that walkable layout and proximity of businesses and residents,
which also contribute to that European feel. Took my whole
office staff down to New Orleans a couple of years ago.
We had a great weekend there and I want to
tell you it was August, but the weather we were lucky,
we lucked out. The highest temperature I think was about
(28:43):
eighty eighty five degrees. Maybe it was very walkable in
New Orleans. New Orleans is a very walkable town. But
we just felt like we had made it to France.
Speaker 1 (28:54):
You know.
Speaker 2 (28:55):
It was awesome. Yeah, I mean Fourth of July. You
go on the river. On the fourth of July, they
do fireworks over the Mississippi. They've got these live brass bands.
If you take a little closer look, they celebrate it
with a spectacular fireworks display. They call it go Forth
on the River. It features dueling barges on the Mississippi River.
(29:18):
They've got the fireworks that start at nine o'clock. They're
accompanied by patriotic music. Besides the fireworks there you can
really enjoy the French quarters festive atmosphere, kind of stroll
along the river front there, play and find a lot
of food and entertainment. Now, the more detailed look is
the go Forth on the River. That is their main
(29:41):
main event over the Fourth of July. And if you're
looking for a great place to stay, gosh, there's really
only one. The Hotel monte Leone. It's a New Orleans landmark,
rich history dates back to the eighteen eighty six. I
think originally it was called the Commercial hotel. It was
actually purchased by a gentleman named Antonio Montalione. He was
(30:04):
an Italian immigrant, so you've got that influence there and
it has remained in the Monteleone family for five generations.
The hotel is known for its Beaux Arts architecture, literary
connections because a lot of famous authors have stayed and
written in the Hotel Montalone. And they have this iconic
(30:27):
carousel bar. It's the only bar that rotates in all
of New Orleans, and that's why they call it the
Carosell Bar. Pretty incredible.
Speaker 1 (30:36):
This looks like something out of a movie.
Speaker 2 (30:38):
Oh yeah, well, Hotel Montalione is world famous, really, and
it has been featured in a lot of movies.
Speaker 1 (30:44):
And it looks like something straight out of Paris.
Speaker 2 (30:48):
Yeah it does. And it has that very you know,
Italian French flare and influence obviously by the guy who
purchased the hotel originally, Antonio montali And if you're interested
in dining in New Orleans, good lord, where do I start?
Where do I end? It's iconic Creole cuisine. Of course,
(31:09):
you've got a lot of French food, but Commander's Palace
is probably one of the best places to go, classic
classic New Orleans cuisine. They've got dishes like gumbo, turtle soup.
They're famous bread pudding soufle. And let me tell you something,
if you want to die and go to heaven, just
go to New Orleans and eat the iconic bread pudding soufle.
(31:33):
It is to die for. It is so good. I
have never been able to replicate that recipe, even though
it was handed to me. I still can't get it,
just like they do. They also have the most incredible
jazz brunches in New Orleans with all of that, you know,
that flare, that jazzy flair, popular option, lively atmosphere, delicious
(31:57):
food all over New Orleans.
Speaker 1 (31:59):
Let's talk more about food. Yes, absolutely, yeah, I traveled
to any one of these locations because so far they
all look like they have delicious food, and.
Speaker 2 (32:09):
They do, they absolutely do.
Speaker 1 (32:11):
And I would assume they're going to taste like your traveling.
Speaker 2 (32:14):
Yeah. And you know, I think it's something about maybe
Chris my background and yours. You were being German mine
as well. I mean, my family loved food. We gathered
over food, I mean, and when we got together, that's
what we did. I mean, I had a lot of
German relatives that would fix some of the most incredible
foods that I could never pronounce. But here recently, I
(32:38):
will tell you I had an opportunity to dine at
for Mother's Day. I was taken to the Bavarian chef
in Madison, Virginia, not far from here, across the mountain,
and I had German potato south It's.
Speaker 1 (32:51):
The best thing you'll ever eat.
Speaker 2 (32:52):
Oh my goodness. It was an exact replica of my
aunt Janie's German potato sound. And I said, this is it,
This is it. I have returned to my childhood. What
a better gift for Mother's Day could I have had?
I don't know.
Speaker 1 (33:09):
It was great, Absolutely, I love German food. I said.
My grandmother was from Austria, and yeah, she was from
the part of the Alps that was right on the
border between Italy and Austria. And she spoke Tyrolean, so
she was from the Tyrol region. But you when I
grew up, it wasn't a wedding if there wasn't no
(33:31):
way man, there wasn't a line of buffet pans set
out with you know, rigatoni and lasagna and all these
different pastas and different types of fish and things like that.
Speaker 2 (33:45):
This is when the women this is you know, no catering,
are you. This is when the women in the families
out cooked each other at a.
Speaker 1 (33:52):
Wedding, showed your love for the for the couple exactly exactly.
You did your best, you.
Speaker 2 (33:57):
Bet you did, and everybody benefit.
Speaker 1 (34:00):
Yes, I remember the terry miss Sue. Oh yeah, the
my my grandmother made the best. We're completely off track
now from what we were talking about. The pizzelle cookies.
There looks like an ice cream cone. Oh yeah, she
would make those. She had the press that would make
two of them.
Speaker 2 (34:19):
I think at a time, very familiar and.
Speaker 1 (34:21):
You walk in, you'd smell that and I don't know
if it was an or something in it to give it. Yeah,
I know I miss I missed my grandparents.
Speaker 2 (34:31):
They could cook. I miss those days, you know, I
miss those days of growing up around those that kind
of cooking and that kind of food. I mean where
I was just transported to a different world. That's what
we're talking about here today. On a lifeless or we
are transporting you through the globe, but you're not leaving
the United States.
Speaker 1 (34:51):
I'm really excited to see where we're going next, Let's
take a quick break. We'll come back and we'll talk
more about Fourth of July destinations that feel international here
in the US on a lifeless Ordinary.
Speaker 3 (35:02):
Who would think of driving off to a new destination
without guidance from Google to Syria? Not the wishing Well
Guide your next travel experience. Travel the world as you
enjoy the very best destinations and all they offer at
the best prices. Our mobile travel app keeps your vacation
on track and keeps you connected with our team of experts.
For help, if you need it, call us at five
four zero nine zero eight two thirty three three stop
(35:25):
buy two forty three nef Avenue, or visit us at
the Wishingwell dot biz.
Speaker 1 (35:30):
Thank you so much for joining us this morning here
on a Lifeless Ordinary. Every Saturday morning, we sit down
and we talk about travel. This is your travel show
and podcast from your friends at the Wishing Well. You
can find them online at the Wishingwell dot Biz there
on nep Avenue in Harrisonburg, or just give them a
call and they'll chat with you about travel. At five
(35:52):
four Oho nine oh eight twenty three thirty three. Just
before we went to break, we were talking about all
this delicious food that our grandparents made. You're talking German
food like spetzel and wiener schnitzel and German potato.
Speaker 2 (36:08):
Salad served warm, and.
Speaker 1 (36:11):
There are places you can get that kind of cuisine
here in the United States. We're not talking food today.
This is actually about the fourth of July. But if
you're going to part of it, but if you're gonna go,
you might as well eat, might as well. You can
find these kind of great international experiences right here in
the USA.
Speaker 2 (36:28):
I know, I mean rare to think that there. We've
mentioned them here a time or two before when we've
talked about other destinations, how they mimic or look very
similar to a European but we're focused entirely on that today,
focused entirely on these towns, some of which you may
not have ever heard of, some of which you may
(36:49):
have heard of, obviously. I think probably most people listening
have heard of New Orleans, that you think, but some
of these other places not so much, you know. Now.
One of the other ones I want to mention right
now is another one that we're going to catapult too,
in Michigan, and this is Mackinaw Island.
Speaker 1 (37:06):
We've talked about Mcinawell Harry I think grew up around
that part of the world.
Speaker 2 (37:10):
He sure did. Yep. They have no cars, just carriages
and bikes. It is a Victorian dream. Oh and if
you take a little closer look here, mckinaw Island is
often compared to Europe, maybe even parts of the UK
because of its unique blend. It's got that historic charm,
(37:33):
that European architectural influences. Of course, I said, car free
environment reminiscent of some European towns. Now, specifically, the island's
historic Fort Mackinaw is a well preserved Victorian era architecture,
and the reliance on horse drawn carriages and bikes for
(37:55):
transportation really kind of evoke a sense of stepping back
in time, similar to what you might have experienced in
parts of Europe. Now. I watch a couple of mystery
shows on TV. I'm pretty really partial to some of
these mystery shows, and one of them is set back
(38:16):
in the Victorian era and they have the horse drawn carriages.
The ladies, of course wear their long Victorian dresses and
carry their parasols and that kind of thing. That's Mackinaw.
Speaker 1 (38:29):
Hmm.
Speaker 2 (38:29):
Okay, that's a picture of Mackinaw And if you wonder
what they do over the Fourth of July, they have
these historic parades, they have concerts and fireworks over Lake Huron.
What they celebrate there is really kind of a unique
Americana experience because they've got a mix of historical reenactments,
(38:50):
they've got family friendly activities, spectacular of course, fireworks display.
They've got festivities that include the WT Robbie Stone skipping
competition that sounds fun, Yeah, I know, right, old fashioned
carnival games at Windermere Point and a star spangled celebration
at Fort Mackinaw featuring nineteenth century demonstrations and cannon salutes.
(39:15):
We don't see that much around anymore, but they do that.
And the day culminates, of course in fireworks over the harbor.
So you've got all of this kind of Victorian kind
of thing going on, a little bit like the Great Gatsby,
if you will, sort of that feeling, that vibe, you know,
which sort of takes you back in time as well
(39:37):
as transports you to a different land. Yeah, so I
think that's really kind of interesting. And if you're interested
of where to stay, there's really only one place. It's
the Grand Hotel. It's famous for its expansive porch there
it goes across the whole place. Tea. They have high
tea there of course, just like they do in London
(40:00):
and period elegance. They opened their doors back in eighteen
eighty seven. They were a summer retreat for vacationers who
actually traveled to Michigan by train and then came back
to Mackinaw Island via steamer and boat. And this is
where they stayed throughout its time as America's summer place.
One family nurtured and guided this hotel growth to a
(40:24):
highly celebrated and much love getaway that we know today
as the Grand Hotel. And today this National Historic Landmark
continues to accept guests with old world hospitality and charm
those all those inspired enhancements and a heritage to be
preserved for generations to come. So it's really great. And
(40:46):
speaking of the Grand Hotel and great places to eat,
that's where you want to dine too, because they have
the Grand Dining Room. They also have a great area
where people have picnics around the green and Hotel that
overlook the river and the fort. Because really there is
no five star resort that can come close to the
(41:07):
outdoor experience on Mackinac Islands. So a picnic on the water.
Speaker 1 (41:12):
Yes, please, that sounds very nice.
Speaker 2 (41:14):
It does, it does. So Mackinaw Islands sound like someplace
that would beckon you, Chris.
Speaker 1 (41:22):
I mean you're heading it out of the park today.
Every one of these locations would be on my list.
Speaker 2 (41:27):
Yeah. They're pretty nice, you know, pretty nice way to
just unwind, not overcrowded, not super crowded.
Speaker 1 (41:33):
And not hard to get to.
Speaker 2 (41:34):
And not hard to get to exactly. So those all
make four I think splendid reasons to go. Next on
our list is Saint Augustine, Florida. This is a Spanish
area and one that's going to produce a lot of
Fourth of July splendor. You've got Spanish missions here, Mexican influences,
(41:56):
You've got that festive river walk charm. Saint Augustine, Florida
is often described as having a European feel, particularly a
Spanish one, due to it's this history. It's the oldest
continuously inhabited European established settlement. Try and say that again
(42:17):
in the United States. The city's architecture, the whole layout
of the city. The historical landmarks all reflect that Spanish
colonial past, and it offers really a glimpse into what
some consider old Europe. Are you looking at it there?
Speaker 1 (42:37):
Well, I'm looking at also. I didn't realize where it was.
I always assumed it was down in the southern tip
of Florida. It's just south of Jacksonville.
Speaker 2 (42:43):
It is. Yeah, it's more than in the northern yeah
of Florida.
Speaker 1 (42:47):
Well, we could get there in a day's drive.
Speaker 2 (42:48):
Here you go, I go. You could.
Speaker 1 (42:51):
It's beautiful, or you could.
Speaker 2 (42:52):
Fly like And if you want to know what they
do over the Fourth of July, well, Saint Augustine blows
it out of the water. They celebrate the Fourth of
July with fireworks over the Montazes. That's a free event
featuring a concert and a spectacular fireworks display at Montazas Bay.
(43:15):
The celebration begins at six pm with a free concert
by the All Star Orchestra in the Plaza de la Constitution.
They play patriotic of course, and big band music, and
that firework show starts at about nine point thirty, with
the best viewing spots along the bayfront between Costello di
(43:36):
San Marcos and the Bridge of lions. So this is
exactly where you want to be if you are in
Saint Augustine and celebrating the Fourth of July. There again,
they kind of knock it out of the park. This
is all about how they do it big in Florida
for the Fourth of July. They have a ball, you know,
and why not. They're close to the beach, they're close
(43:58):
to the water. All the good reasons Fourth of July
should be celebrated in grand style, and of course all
the patriotic music. I think they even bring boats into
the harbor there.
Speaker 1 (44:10):
I'm looking at pictures of the sailboats are bringing in.
Speaker 2 (44:13):
Yeah. So I mean all the reasons why Saint Augustine
wound up on the list of great places that feel
international even though you're in the United States. And if
you want to know where to stay luxury hotel property
there called the Collection. Travelers that are looking for a
storied kind of retreat, they're going to have a great
(44:35):
time in the iconic hotel in Saint Augustine's historic district.
It's one of the home of it's actually it was
once the home of the Down Museum of Historic Houses
and it's now a thoughtfully curated hotel that tells its
century old story through art and architecture. They weave into
(44:56):
it kind of a modern, high end experience of hospitality.
Really beautiful place, don't you think.
Speaker 1 (45:05):
Tell me the name again, I wasn't typing called the
collection the collection. I wasn't typing fast enough. All right,
let me see if.
Speaker 2 (45:11):
I can find that now, if you want to know
where to dine. While he's looking that up, visitors really
can go on sort of a explosive gastronomic journey that
spans the globe again without leaving this region. They're known
in Saint Augustine for fresh, locally sourced seafood. The area
(45:33):
really offers kind of a variety of delicious options, from
shrimp to oysters, to grouper and mahi mahi, which is
one of my favorites.
Speaker 1 (45:41):
Love it.
Speaker 2 (45:42):
What do you think about the collection?
Speaker 1 (45:44):
This feels and maybe it's why it's called a collection.
It feels like it's a small neighborhood and you're staying
in a house exactly, and they've got these little courtyards
that are walled off and a little stone walls that
are beautiful. I don't know, I'm.
Speaker 2 (46:01):
Very European looking right.
Speaker 1 (46:03):
Yes, I say yes to all of this.
Speaker 2 (46:05):
Yes, looks like a great place to take a vacation.
And you know, sometimes we often sort of gravitate to
the ordinary. What is this show called a life less Ordinary?
And that's what we do. We take you on a
journey to these places where you may not have ever
(46:25):
thought about going, but that are going to create a
more extraordinary experience for you as a vacation, as an investment,
because that's what a vacation is. It's an investment. It's
an investment of your time. It's an investment of money.
And shouldn't you really be able to get the best
out of it and find the best as you travel
(46:49):
to it? And certainly Saint Augustine checks those boxes. If
you're looking for a great place to eat, to find
some of these locally sourced seafood and some of the
best foods, there is a place called fish Camp. It's
got a few other locations actually in coastal Florida, but
it's still not what you'd ever call a chain. It's
(47:11):
really not. It's called the Fish Camp. Great unique place,
well crafted dishes on the menu that feature local fare
and the decors at Saint Augustine Fish Camp is really
kind of upscale, nautical. It's open, it's modern, and it's
(47:32):
immediately welcoming. It's a great spot close to the water.
So I know we don't have enough time, Chris to
really hit hard a lot of these other places, but
I just wanted to mention them anyway, because I think
they are worth going to see. They have some great
(47:52):
things to see and do there. They fit the box.
They check the boxes for international vibes within the United
States and great Fourth of July celebrations. One such place
is Newport, Rhode Island. We call this the Gilded Age
of Grandeur. They have bell epic excellence there that meets
(48:14):
kind of coastal Americana. I know it's kind of in
New England. Do we call it that, Well, we call
it that for a reason. We say New England because
it does really, in fact, kind of look a bit
English when you get there for Fourth of July. They've
got historic parades, harbor fireworks. Of course, they have lawn concerts.
(48:35):
If you're looking for the best place to stay, it's
going to be the Chandler at Cliff Walk. That is
the place to stay. Another place on my list you
were talking about Italian Where could you go to hit
that Italian vibe? Well, there is a place in California
called Venice, Just Venice, California, of all places. Yep, they've
(48:56):
even got Venetian canals there. Yeah, beach culture, artistry energy there.
Fourth of July, they've got fireworks on the beach, rooftop parties,
local parades. Best place to stay is the Hotel Irwin.
And then next on my list for a little bit
of Greek influence. Thought this was fun and actually I've
(49:18):
been looking at this place to go myself, just on
a quick getaway. Tarpon Springs, Florida. They are very very
heavy into the Greek vibe there. They were actually founded
by Greek sponge divers, which is really interesting. And this
town brings that Hellenic culture to thet golf on Fourth
(49:40):
of July. They've got boat parades, buy you fireworks, Greek
music and food. Best place to stay there is the
don Cesar. That one has to be the best place.
Great places to dine there. Last one I want to
mention is probably one that nobody's ever heard about. If
you're looking for a little Sweden in the United States.
(50:03):
Didn't know it even existed. You'll find it in Linzbourg, Kansas, Linzburg, Kansas,
Scandinavian traditions and charm. In the American Midwest on Fourth
of July, they celebrate with traditional parades, bonfires, Swedish folk music.
You're not going to hear probably a lot of Americana,
(50:24):
but you will hear Swedish polkas. And the best place
to stay there is Vikings on Maine. Best place to
dine Crown and Rye for meatballs, crapes and cardaman rolls.
Sounds amazing to me. So really we've covered a lot,
from Bavarian beer gardens in Georgia, Greek waterfronts in Florida. Chris,
(50:48):
I think we went all over the place.
Speaker 1 (50:50):
I think, as I'm listening to all these, you have
to pick a place that's got the beer gardens. Because
nothing says Happy Birthday, USA like having a good beer
in your hands.
Speaker 2 (50:59):
That's what I hear. That's what I hear.
Speaker 1 (51:01):
And maybe a grill somewhere.
Speaker 2 (51:02):
Maybe so yeah, and maybe you wouldn't have to grill,
just find some of these great places to eat. I'd
be all about that. So go ahead, like a sparkler
in a Swedish village sip A, Sangria, beside a Spanish fort.
I think your Independence Day just got a world class
adventure here on a lifeless ordinary today.
Speaker 1 (51:23):
And honestly, anywhere that they're setting off fireworks is a
great place to be.
Speaker 2 (51:26):
I know it is, and I always love that. You know,
the poor little animals around don't think much of it.
Speaker 1 (51:31):
My dog doesn't like it.
Speaker 2 (51:32):
I'm sure he doesn't, but you know, everybody kind of
gets into it, and it's this is a great year
to celebrate. Happy Birthday, USA, celebrate the fourth of July
and style, no matter what you're doing, really celebrate it is.
This is the land of freedom, and everybody, everybody wants
to live here. So we're lucky, we're fortunate, we're blessed.
(51:54):
We get to live in the land that everybody else
wants to be in, right.
Speaker 1 (51:59):
Want to live anywhere else.
Speaker 2 (52:00):
I know.
Speaker 1 (52:02):
Well, even if you're not traveling anywhere exciting this fourth
of July, there's going to be fireworks around you somewhere.
Go out and celebrate your freedom with the people that
you live near, and you know, think of us while
you're having your beer.
Speaker 2 (52:15):
Yeah, and if any of these places sound interesting to you,
please give me a call at the wishing Well. I
would be delighted to help you. I am so easy
to find. I'm located in Heresonburg, Virginia at two forty
three NEF Avenue in the Valley Center, and you can
find us at if you want to call us, we'd
love that too. Call us at five four oh nine
oh eight two three three three, or look us up
(52:38):
on the web. We are at the Wishingwell dot us.
Speaker 1 (52:41):
This has been a life less ordinary, the travel show
from your friends at the wishing Well at two forty
three neph Avenue in Harrisonburg. If you have any questions
on topics discussed today, please reach out to the wishing
Well online at the wishing Well dopiz or five four
oh nine oh eight twenty three thirty three.
Speaker 2 (52:58):
Eight.
Speaker 1 (52:58):
Past episodes are available on the I Heart Radio app.
And we'll see again next Saturday morning at ten for
a lifeless Ordinary from the wishing Well
This is a Lifeless Ordinary, the travel show and podcasts
from your friends at the wishing Well two forty three
f Avenue in Harsmurt and online at the wishing Well
dot biz. The wishing Well is your ultimate luxury concierge
travel agency and A Lifeless Ordinary is a travel show
and podcasts hosted by Terry Dean, bringing her over forty
years of experience in the travel industry to help guide
(00:21):
you to great experiences in your travel, whether it be
around the block, around the country, or around the world.
Let's bring in Terry Dean and say hello.
Speaker 2 (00:28):
And there's Chris.
Speaker 1 (00:29):
Hi there.
Speaker 2 (00:30):
How are you.
Speaker 1 (00:31):
I'm well, it's good to see you.
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Good to see you. Always good to be here on
a beautiful Saturday, no matter what's going on, it's beautiful
in here.
Speaker 1 (00:38):
I love it. Yeah.
Speaker 2 (00:40):
Well, we're going to talk about travel.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
Well, that's what we do every Saturday morning at this time.
That's why we always always have a smile on our face.
And I'm excited to find out what's been going on
in the past week of travel.
Speaker 2 (00:51):
Ready to roll. Harry, my business partner, is in Spain,
Portugal and finishing up his Morocco cruise with about eighteen
or twenty of his closest new friends.
Speaker 1 (01:05):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (01:05):
So we had a great cruise group that left here
a week ago and they are having a marvelous time.
So I hear he's been photos weather. It's been wonderful. Yes,
and the experiences they've been having are nothing short of
why do we say, out of the ordinary? Yeah, so
definitely lifeless ordinary for those folks.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
I'm jealous.
Speaker 2 (01:29):
Yeah, I know I'm a little jealous too. It's been
very busy at the Wishing Well and we've got some
news we want to talk about with you folks today.
And thank you everybody for joining us. I know you
could be doing anything with your Saturday. I'm glad you're
somewhere where it's cool right now. You got a cup
of coffee, you kicked back, ready to hear about some
great travel information. So we're going to start with some news.
(01:53):
We have something that's coming to us from a border entry.
And as we head through this summer right now, we're
getting a lot of information floating in about how busy
it is at airports and that kind of thing. And
although crowds swell at airports during the summer, lines are
only getting faster. Thanks to new processes that were adopted
(02:16):
this month. Global entry got even faster at seven US
airports thanks to a new process called Seamless Border Entry,
which actually scans passengers faces as they continue to move
through the checkpoint. Now. TSA PreCheck said it would be
launching its touchless ID program at more airports this summer,
(02:40):
including Seattle, Los Angeles, and Portland in partnership with Alaska Airlines,
as well as Atlanta, New York, LaGuardia, Salt Lake City,
and Washington, d C in collaboration with American Airlines. This
touchless ID allows pre check members to use a facial
(03:00):
scan to move through the security checkpoint instead of presenting
a traditional boarding pass and ID. And speaking of airport IDs,
the TSA reminded travelers this month that their cost Co
membership card does not count as a valid real ID.
(03:22):
But the cost that was hilarious.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
But the cost Co card is great for everything else,
for everything else. Yeah, so it's this touchless ID. I'm
assuming I'm still going through the inspection process. This just
gets me through into that part fast, a bit faster.
Speaker 2 (03:37):
Yeah, the lines are going to move a little bit
faster now that they've got facial recognition and that kind
of thing. So yeah, I think it's kind of cool.
I mean, anything that saves travelers some time at the airports.
I know they're all in favor of that, So at
least most people are.
Speaker 1 (03:52):
Anything that would not require me to be there three
hours before the flight leaves, I'm in favor of.
Speaker 2 (03:57):
Yeah, well, don't look for that anytime you are going
to have to be there early. Chris. Sorry. Also some
news from TSA. Continuing on that line of news, they've
issued a new warning for airport travelers. Again with the
busy summer season underway, TSA is warning globetrotters about the
dangers of using USB chargers at airports. I thought this
(04:23):
was really interesting. Now. According to TSA, travelers should avoid
charging their electtronic devices via the USB ports that are
now commonplace at a lot of airports around the country
and the world because of the potential malware these ports
might contain. That's news to me. I did not know
(04:44):
that was even possible.
Speaker 1 (04:45):
Yeah, don't ever use public charging station.
Speaker 2 (04:47):
Well yeah, according to TSA, hackers can install malware at
USB ports. This advisory goes on to state that when
you're at an airport, do not plug your phone directly
into a USB B port, bring your tsa compliant power
brick or battery pack and plug in there. Now, that
same advisory also contains a warning from the government agency
(05:11):
about free public Wi Fi available at most airports here too.
The concern is that hackers can access your personal information
unbeknownst to you, the travelers, So don't use free public
Wi Fi, especially if you're planning to make any online purchases,
and do not ever enter any sensitive information when you
(05:35):
are using unsecure WiFi. So I thought that was good advice.
A lot of people are going to be filling up
the airports, some delays might take place. I mean we
see now pretty often storms in our system and in
our atmosphere. It has a trickle down effect, so sometimes
people are sitting in the airports for undo amounts of
time waiting on their next flight to take off.
Speaker 1 (05:57):
I bought one of those little charger bricks. I don't
know what they're called. Yeah, poor power pat Yeah, and
you get three charges out of it or something.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (06:05):
I carry that whenever I travel.
Speaker 2 (06:06):
Good for you?
Speaker 1 (06:06):
Yeah, way, I'm not because I've known this for a
long time and even when I was in the emergency room.
I wouldn't plug it into the little charging because you know,
there's just people out there with bad intentions. Yeah, there
really are, and they take advantage of you because they
know people need to charge.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (06:21):
I thought it was bad enough that they used to
do that at the gas stations. You know that, those
those strippers on the pumps at gas station.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
I'm always a wiggling I'm trying to see it.
Speaker 2 (06:31):
I've had I've had my identity stolen just that way.
Really well, a credit card compromise because of that. Yes,
So don't you know I don't pay at the pumps
anymore for gas. I take cash in I go. I want,
you know, forty dollars on pump four, And that's how
I get my gas anymore. I never do it at
the pump, even with the tap. I just don't do it.
Speaker 1 (06:52):
No, I did the tap.
Speaker 2 (06:53):
Yeah. Well, anyway, more news. Disney is laying some groundwork
for it's a massive new Florida theme park expansion. But
I thought this story was very interesting because Disney's being
very guarded about this information. I thought that was kind
of odd. But Disney laid the groundwork for developing a
new major theme park along with two minor parks in Orlando, Florida.
(07:17):
And that's not all. Those plans also include new resort hotels, shopping,
dining areas, and an eighteen whole golf course. The news
comes nearly three decades after Disney's last major Florida park opening, which,
for those of you who don't remember, was the arrival
of Animal Kingdom in nineteen ninety eight ago. Yeah, that
(07:39):
was a while ago. The total area that is now
likely to be developed amounts to about twenty six hundred acres.
Of that space, the major park would cover about five
hundred acres, and the other minor parks would require about
three hundred of those acres. Now to be clear, however,
this was the interesting part. Disney has no made a
(08:00):
commitment to developing these parks. The plans on file simply
provide Disney with options should the entertainment giant decide to
move forward. But it did make the news, so somehow
this has got to be churning in the works somewhere. Moreover,
the plans for the new editions are for the next
twenty years, actually stretching until twenty forty five. I can
(08:24):
assure you I will not be in this industry probably
then probably won't be, but in any event, in twenty
twenty four, Florida's governor agreed to allow Disney to move
forward with plans to invest up to seventeen billion dollars
in its Orlando location. For its part, Disney has been
(08:46):
mum on this news and did not respond to request
for comment on this report. So be interesting to see
what actually happens there, whether they will or won't do
this ext.
Speaker 1 (09:00):
You know, we love Disney, we do. We talk about
them a lot here on a Lifeless Ordinary. If your
interest in Disney, Disney travel, you just want to hear
us talk about Disney, go to the wishing Well dot
biz website and in the upper right hand corner you'll
find the little Hamburger menu. You click on that, click
on a Lifeless Ordinary, and then there's a search bar
(09:20):
you can put in Disney all the past podcasts that
we've talked.
Speaker 2 (09:24):
About yeah, where we've mentioned it. Yeah, So that's all good.
So how about some sales, yeah, yeah, so one of
them I just absolutely had to bring today because talk
about things we've talked about in the past here on
a Lifeless Ordinary. Nima Colan has been they earned my
heart when I was there recently, and they are actually
(09:45):
having a sale, which is very unusual for them. Summer
has just begun, but Nima Colan's best offer of the
season is just almost about to expire. You can reserve
your space now at Nima Colan and save twenty five
percent on your next sale fare next day. Whether you're
(10:06):
craving a last minute summer getaway or planning ahead for
the holidays, you're going to be glad you seized this
magical opportunity. I will tell you though, this is going
to disappear on June the thirtieth, but if you book it,
your valid stays can take you all the way through
December thirtieth of this year. So twenty five percent off
(10:29):
at Nima Coolan is nothing to sneeze at. That is
a great sale and if you're interested, would love, love
love to help you out with that. The other sale
that I had, not unusual, comes from our friends at
Viking Cruise Line. Right now, a lot of people wait
for these offers. They have up to free airfare up
(10:50):
to one thousand dollars shipboard credit on some of their offerings.
They have that free Silver Spirits beverage package that almost
never happens with Viking, but if you're interested in that,
they usually always do beering wine with lunch and dinner. Okay,
but when they have the Silver Spirits beverage package available,
(11:10):
that means free cocktails all day long, it's pretty much
open bar. So a lot of people like that. Yes
they do, and it's also including your gratuities, which also
is something that Viking does not do very often. And
not only that, but a twenty five dollars deposit will
hold your adventure. And some of them that came up
(11:33):
on this list that were pretty popular. Ones that we
see a lot at the Wishing Well that we book
are the Run Getaway. They're doing a two for one airfare,
the free beverage package five hundred dollars shipboard credit and
included gratuities. The Grand European Tour free airfare, that free
beverage package one thousand dollars shipboard credit and included gratuities.
(11:56):
But that is only on select June through August departures
of twenty twenty six, so you really have to if
you're going to want to exercise that call me for
the details on Some of doesn't apply to every ship.
Every sailing. It's isolated, but if you can land it,
it's a great deal.
Speaker 1 (12:15):
And that phone number is five four h nine eight
twenty three thirty three if you want to give Terry
a kom absolutely our show this week has to do
with Independence Day, it true does. It's entitled Fourth of
July Destinations that Feel International. And I'm really curious about
this because I think we don't do international very well
(12:36):
in the US, so I'm thinking maybe somewhere well.
Speaker 2 (12:41):
I'll tell you why I leaped into this is because
a lot of folks right now, because of some things
that are going on in the world, they're a little
shy about, you know, traveling into the international forefront right now.
So I thought, for those people who are really interested
in an international vibe, and you've got some time over
(13:01):
the fourth of July, I've got the perfect places for
you right here in the good old US Bay.
Speaker 1 (13:06):
I'm like cracking my brand, thinking may be somewhere close
to the Canadian border. Okay, uh, maybe Hawaii? No, okay,
maybe I should stick around thirty more seconds and we'll
all find out together.
Speaker 2 (13:19):
I think that's it's coming up next year on Our
Life Less Ordinary.
Speaker 3 (13:22):
Who would think of driving off to a new destination
without guidance from Google or Syria. Not the Wishing World
guide your next travel experience.
Speaker 1 (13:30):
Travel the world as you enjoy the very.
Speaker 3 (13:32):
Best destinations and all they offer at the best prices.
Our mobile travel app keeps your vacation on track and
keeps you connected with our team of experts.
Speaker 1 (13:40):
For help.
Speaker 3 (13:40):
If you need it, call us at five four zero
nine zero eight two three three three stop, buy two
forty three nef avenue, or visit us at the Wishingwell
dot biz.
Speaker 1 (13:51):
Hey, welcome back to a life less Ordinary, the travel
showing podcasts from your friends at the Wishing Well in Harrisonburg.
You can find them on nef Avenue, also online at
the wish Well dot biz, or give them a call
at five four h nine oh eight twenty three thirty three.
All Right, So I was trying to rack my brain
of these international destinations that are inside the United States.
(14:12):
Our show today is fourth of July. Destinations that feel
international and terry. You've got answers I do.
Speaker 2 (14:18):
And probably some of these, Chris are going to be
some very unlikely, maybe some places that you've never even
heard of before. I enjoyed the research on this because
it opened up my eyes also to a lot of
hidden gems here within the United States, where if you
(14:40):
just can't get across the pond, if it's just too inconvenient,
if you don't have a passport, or you know, you're
just a little skiddish right now about travel internationally, this
is such a great option for people who have any
one of those things as objections to being able to
travel internationally. Right now and again, I want to say
(15:03):
welcome back to everybody, to a lifeless ordinary. We like
to take you on a ride every Saturday where imagination
really takes flight, and every journey feels like a passport
stamp on your soul. And we're here faithfully to spend
every Saturday with you. And today it's all about vacation
(15:25):
time because it's the nation's birthday. Happy Birthday, USA.
Speaker 1 (15:29):
We only had to wait two hundred and forty nine
years to get to this. I know, right, I've got
more guesses. Okay, I'm thinking maybe something in Texas, Okay,
because of its proximity to Mexico. Okay, so maybe some
Latin vibes, you know, maybe Wisconsin for some German vibes.
And I don't know where we find maybe Italian vibes,
(15:51):
but I'm sure they're at all New.
Speaker 2 (15:52):
York City that list. You know, this is great.
Speaker 1 (15:54):
Okay, Well little Italy in New York or Chinatown in
San Francisco. All right, go ahead.
Speaker 2 (15:59):
I'm really gonna go on a journey across the United
States to places that really feel international. I've got Bavarian villages,
I've got Danish on Clayton, everything from New Orleans jazz, yeah,
to Grecian coastal vibes. So this is your time to
(16:21):
pack your camera, your passport, your cup of coffee, put
your feet up. We're gonna have a little journey.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Okay, let's go.
Speaker 2 (16:30):
So the first one that was actually a little bit
of a surprise to me is a beautiful place called Helen, Georgia.
And I'm calling this particular little area stars, stripes and Strudel. Okay, yeah,
Helen Georgia, Chris is actually designed to resemble a Bavarian
(16:52):
alpine town. If you look it up, that's what you see.
I mean, it really looks like a Bavarian town, truly
unique European style atmosphere. And how do they do that? Well,
it was all achieved through architectural styles. They've got these
great building designs many of the cultural elements that they've
(17:13):
incorporated into the town's layout and infrastructure. Specifically, the town's
buildings feature those unmistakable Bavarian timbered facades. They've got beautiful,
colorful shutters, steep pitched roofs, all of which are really
reminiscent of traditional German architecture, and some even include German lettering.
(17:37):
The town also hosts an annual Octoberfest celebration, further enhancing
its European field. This place is adorable, isn't it. I mean,
it's just gorgeous. Helen Georgia, who knew, well they did. Yeah,
but they also have a great way of celebrating the
(17:59):
Fourth of July. Yes, Helen Georgia hosts an annual Fourth
of July celebration that includes a spectacular fireworks display over
the Chattahoochee River. The fireworks are typically set off at
about dusks sometime between nine pm and nine thirty behind
the Alpine Village shops and the Helen Welcome Center, and
(18:22):
the event draws large crowds, so arriving early is really
recommended so you can secure a really good viewing spot.
Now In addition to those fireworks, the town might also
have other festivities planned like live music. They've got great
food vendors of course, and activities for kids of all ages.
(18:44):
The Hellendorf River Inn, Sweets and Conference Center also hosts
a Fourth of July celebration and they include a barbecue,
drinks and music. They have polka bands, German food, and
fireworks all over the Chattahoochee. So beautiful little town. What's
(19:04):
your take on this, Chris?
Speaker 1 (19:06):
It reminds me of bush gardens, and they even do
it looks like Christmas. They do some fun stuff too.
I would go here, I would spend time here. My
wife and I would enjoy this.
Speaker 2 (19:18):
Wouldn't you? And I mean it would give you sort
of the presence that you've left the United States and
entered Bavaria and Germany. I mean, I love it. Now.
If you want to know where to stay, you and
your wife, if you're going to go Valhalla Resort Hotel,
you simply have to look this up. It's a mountain
(19:39):
view retreat with European spa. It's got a castle like ambiance.
It was inspired by the owner's Scottish heritage and their
desire to kind of bring a luxury experience to these
North Georgia mountains and the resort opened in twenty seventeen.
It's designed to actually evoke kind of a Scottish castle
(20:02):
and it features twenty five King sweets. It's got a
rooftop bar, a spa and a wine cellar. It is
amazing and dining in Helen, Georgia. So if you're in
town that takes its inspiration from Austria and Bavaria, what
kind of cuisine do you think you'd expect to find.
Speaker 1 (20:23):
I've ever get some veenerschniss.
Speaker 2 (20:27):
So Boden Sea Restaurant is great for schnitzel, spasil and
German beerhon Helen, Georgia is the first on my list
today for great places to go. Feel like you're traveling
internationally but be able to celebrate the fourth of July
(20:49):
instill good old American style.
Speaker 1 (20:51):
They've got a motel called the Heidi Motel and it
has a windmill outside.
Speaker 2 (20:55):
Isn't that beautiful.
Speaker 1 (20:56):
The Hellendorff River enn I just want to go now
because of all the names. My family is German. I
know my granmother is about this. My grandmother is from Austria.
Speaker 2 (21:05):
So you must go I must to Helen, Georgia and
experience a little bit of Bavaria and have that without,
you know, without the stamp on your passport. Who cares?
Speaker 1 (21:15):
I like it?
Speaker 2 (21:16):
You know I do too. I think it's great. So
the next place we're going to roam off to here
is on the completely other side of the country, and
this is a place called Solvang, California. It has got
Danish charm in wine country, You've got wind meals, you've
(21:37):
got pastries, an old world charm in California's Santa Ynez Valley. Right, yeah,
I love it.
Speaker 1 (21:45):
Ye see, I'm looking.
Speaker 2 (21:46):
It's great. Solvang, California feels like a European town actually,
primarily due to this strong Danish heritage and again the
architecture choices there that have inspired it. Founded by Danish
immigrants in nineteen eleven, this town has numerous Danish style buildings,
(22:08):
including those half timbered houses again with the thatched roofs,
decorative street signs, and European style street lamps. Additionally, solving
features windmills where do we see windmills? Holland of course, yeah,
and replicas of Danish landmarks like that little Mermaid statue.
(22:29):
That you would see in the Netherlands, and cultural events
like folk music, traditional dress, all contributing to this very
very unique ambiance. So tell us, Chris, what's your take
on this? Well?
Speaker 1 (22:44):
I love it. It's like every restaurant has a windmill
built on top of it. This is amazing and it's colorful.
It is it's so pretty. Yeah, no, I might have
to go to this instead of Helen.
Speaker 2 (22:59):
So this is a California though you have to fly
a little bit further Georgia. You could drive to this one,
you're gonna have to fly. But what do they do
for the Fourth of July. Well, they've got a Danish parade,
they have a concert in the park and vineyard fireworks.
They celebrate the fourth of July with a parade in
a festival at the Old Mission. They feature fireworks there.
(23:22):
The day begins with the Solvang Rotaries annual Independence Day parade.
They follow that with a big barbecue in Solvang Park
and the festival at the Old Mission. Santa Annez includes
live entertainment. They have food vendors and a kid zone
which all culminates in a fireworks show. Now, if you
(23:44):
want to know where to stay, here, as far as
luxury stays, there's only one place that I would recommend.
It's called The Landsby. It's a modern Scandinavian hotel. Honored
as the number one Best Small Town in the West
by USA Today's twenty twenty five ten Best Reader's Choice Awards.
(24:05):
The Landsby is a stylish escape in the Santa Anez Valley.
One of the premiere solving hotels near Los Olvos. The
Lansby offers fifty one boutique guest rooms. They've got warm
hospitality there, stylish accommodations. Their intimate hotel really has a clean,
(24:27):
contemporary design, I would say, with a hint of traditional
Scandinavian aesthetic, inviting guests to a one of a kind
stay in that California one country.
Speaker 1 (24:38):
It looks like a place where you'd film a movie, I.
Speaker 2 (24:41):
Know, right, And they may have. They very well may
have there. It is so so quaint, so beautiful.
Speaker 1 (24:46):
This courtyard with the trees and the little party lights
strung in them and everything oh so pretty.
Speaker 2 (24:51):
Yeah, it's lovely. And our show today really is going
to follow kind of a pattern here or really, because
I'm going to tell you about what the town is,
how they most look like Europe. We're going to then
talk about how they celebrate the Fourth of July. We
of course are going to talk about these incredible places
(25:12):
to stay, and then we're going to talk about dining.
And I don't want to leave that off at Solvang
because there's a place called First and Oak. It's a
Michelin recommended fine dining place. It's a food critic recently
wrote about his first visit at First and Oak. I
left the restaurant feeling full to the brim and relaxed
(25:35):
with a sensation I hadn't experienced since my first time
in Paris. If you eat the right food, listen to
the right music, and enjoy the right stories from the
right person France at First and Oak will seep right
into your skin. That's what I found at First and Oak,
(25:55):
and he says, go find it for yourself. The other
place that comes highly recommended is a place called Mortensen's
Bakery for pastries. Now, as for Morton's Bakery, this quaint
bakery and cafe is still run Chris by its original
owners of over forty years. They still use the old
(26:17):
world recipes from Ov Mortensen, who is one of the owners.
A Danish baker from Copenhagen, Denmark, and it's still an
all time favorite. So all the reasons why you should
put Solvang, California on your list of great US places
to visit that feel like you're international.
Speaker 1 (26:40):
And a Vivie was filmed there. It's called Sideways, No
Kidding with Paul Giamani and Thomas Hayden Church. Okay, yeah,
you know, and I'm looking at the pictures and that
looks just like the pictures and the lobby.
Speaker 2 (26:52):
Yeah, so maybe folks who are listening to us this
morning on a life less ordinary have parked on some
of these places and following along on their iPads or
laptops or computers or whatever or your phone. Hopefully you
are please, these are beautiful places.
Speaker 1 (27:10):
And that's so much to be able to see what
you're describing.
Speaker 2 (27:13):
Yeah, it really does kind of bring it all to
the forefront. So next on my list, I don't think
we could really talk about feeling like you're international in
the United States if we didn't talk about one of
my favorite cities of all time, which is New Orleans, Louisiana.
We're going to call this fireworks with a French twist
(27:35):
and You've got a lot of influences here. You've got French,
you've got Spanish, you've got Caribbean, African, Cuban. Now, if
you have never been to New Orleans, multiculturalism is all
that You've got, this rich cultural tapestry. You've got great
mixes of as I said, French, Spanish, American, I'm sorry, African, Creole, Cajun, Irish, German, Haitian,
(28:00):
and all of that comes together in New Orleans. You've
got the European architecture and layout. My goodness, the French
Quarter showcase is stunning, stunning Spanish and French architecture, particularly
the iconic wrought iron balconies and colorful facades that you've
got there. Very reminiscent of European cities too. Like Paris.
(28:23):
You've got that walkable layout and proximity of businesses and residents,
which also contribute to that European feel. Took my whole
office staff down to New Orleans a couple of years ago.
We had a great weekend there and I want to
tell you it was August, but the weather we were lucky,
we lucked out. The highest temperature I think was about
(28:43):
eighty eighty five degrees. Maybe it was very walkable in
New Orleans. New Orleans is a very walkable town. But
we just felt like we had made it to France.
Speaker 1 (28:54):
You know.
Speaker 2 (28:55):
It was awesome. Yeah, I mean Fourth of July. You
go on the river. On the fourth of July, they
do fireworks over the Mississippi. They've got these live brass bands.
If you take a little closer look, they celebrate it
with a spectacular fireworks display. They call it go Forth
on the River. It features dueling barges on the Mississippi River.
(29:18):
They've got the fireworks that start at nine o'clock. They're
accompanied by patriotic music. Besides the fireworks there you can
really enjoy the French quarters festive atmosphere, kind of stroll
along the river front there, play and find a lot
of food and entertainment. Now, the more detailed look is
the go Forth on the River. That is their main
(29:41):
main event over the Fourth of July. And if you're
looking for a great place to stay, gosh, there's really
only one. The Hotel monte Leone. It's a New Orleans landmark,
rich history dates back to the eighteen eighty six. I
think originally it was called the Commercial hotel. It was
actually purchased by a gentleman named Antonio Montalione. He was
(30:04):
an Italian immigrant, so you've got that influence there and
it has remained in the Monteleone family for five generations.
The hotel is known for its Beaux Arts architecture, literary
connections because a lot of famous authors have stayed and
written in the Hotel Montalone. And they have this iconic
(30:27):
carousel bar. It's the only bar that rotates in all
of New Orleans, and that's why they call it the
Carosell Bar. Pretty incredible.
Speaker 1 (30:36):
This looks like something out of a movie.
Speaker 2 (30:38):
Oh yeah, well, Hotel Montalione is world famous, really, and
it has been featured in a lot of movies.
Speaker 1 (30:44):
And it looks like something straight out of Paris.
Speaker 2 (30:48):
Yeah it does. And it has that very you know,
Italian French flare and influence obviously by the guy who
purchased the hotel originally, Antonio montali And if you're interested
in dining in New Orleans, good lord, where do I start?
Where do I end? It's iconic Creole cuisine. Of course,
(31:09):
you've got a lot of French food, but Commander's Palace
is probably one of the best places to go, classic
classic New Orleans cuisine. They've got dishes like gumbo, turtle soup.
They're famous bread pudding soufle. And let me tell you something,
if you want to die and go to heaven, just
go to New Orleans and eat the iconic bread pudding soufle.
(31:33):
It is to die for. It is so good. I
have never been able to replicate that recipe, even though
it was handed to me. I still can't get it,
just like they do. They also have the most incredible
jazz brunches in New Orleans with all of that, you know,
that flare, that jazzy flair, popular option, lively atmosphere, delicious
(31:57):
food all over New Orleans.
Speaker 1 (31:59):
Let's talk more about food. Yes, absolutely, yeah, I traveled
to any one of these locations because so far they
all look like they have delicious food, and.
Speaker 2 (32:09):
They do, they absolutely do.
Speaker 1 (32:11):
And I would assume they're going to taste like your traveling.
Speaker 2 (32:14):
Yeah. And you know, I think it's something about maybe
Chris my background and yours. You were being German mine
as well. I mean, my family loved food. We gathered
over food, I mean, and when we got together, that's
what we did. I mean, I had a lot of
German relatives that would fix some of the most incredible
foods that I could never pronounce. But here recently, I
(32:38):
will tell you I had an opportunity to dine at
for Mother's Day. I was taken to the Bavarian chef
in Madison, Virginia, not far from here, across the mountain,
and I had German potato south It's.
Speaker 1 (32:51):
The best thing you'll ever eat.
Speaker 2 (32:52):
Oh my goodness. It was an exact replica of my
aunt Janie's German potato sound. And I said, this is it,
This is it. I have returned to my childhood. What
a better gift for Mother's Day could I have had?
I don't know.
Speaker 1 (33:09):
It was great, Absolutely, I love German food. I said.
My grandmother was from Austria, and yeah, she was from
the part of the Alps that was right on the
border between Italy and Austria. And she spoke Tyrolean, so
she was from the Tyrol region. But you when I
grew up, it wasn't a wedding if there wasn't no
(33:31):
way man, there wasn't a line of buffet pans set
out with you know, rigatoni and lasagna and all these
different pastas and different types of fish and things like that.
Speaker 2 (33:45):
This is when the women this is you know, no catering,
are you. This is when the women in the families
out cooked each other at a.
Speaker 1 (33:52):
Wedding, showed your love for the for the couple exactly exactly.
You did your best, you.
Speaker 2 (33:57):
Bet you did, and everybody benefit.
Speaker 1 (34:00):
Yes, I remember the terry miss Sue. Oh yeah, the
my my grandmother made the best. We're completely off track
now from what we were talking about. The pizzelle cookies.
There looks like an ice cream cone. Oh yeah, she
would make those. She had the press that would make
two of them.
Speaker 2 (34:19):
I think at a time, very familiar and.
Speaker 1 (34:21):
You walk in, you'd smell that and I don't know
if it was an or something in it to give it. Yeah,
I know I miss I missed my grandparents.
Speaker 2 (34:31):
They could cook. I miss those days, you know, I
miss those days of growing up around those that kind
of cooking and that kind of food. I mean where
I was just transported to a different world. That's what
we're talking about here today. On a lifeless or we
are transporting you through the globe, but you're not leaving
the United States.
Speaker 1 (34:51):
I'm really excited to see where we're going next, Let's
take a quick break. We'll come back and we'll talk
more about Fourth of July destinations that feel international here
in the US on a lifeless Ordinary.
Speaker 3 (35:02):
Who would think of driving off to a new destination
without guidance from Google to Syria? Not the wishing Well
Guide your next travel experience. Travel the world as you
enjoy the very best destinations and all they offer at
the best prices. Our mobile travel app keeps your vacation
on track and keeps you connected with our team of experts.
For help, if you need it, call us at five
four zero nine zero eight two thirty three three stop
(35:25):
buy two forty three nef Avenue, or visit us at
the Wishingwell dot biz.
Speaker 1 (35:30):
Thank you so much for joining us this morning here
on a Lifeless Ordinary. Every Saturday morning, we sit down
and we talk about travel. This is your travel show
and podcast from your friends at the Wishing Well. You
can find them online at the Wishingwell dot Biz there
on nep Avenue in Harrisonburg, or just give them a
call and they'll chat with you about travel. At five
(35:52):
four Oho nine oh eight twenty three thirty three. Just
before we went to break, we were talking about all
this delicious food that our grandparents made. You're talking German
food like spetzel and wiener schnitzel and German potato.
Speaker 2 (36:08):
Salad served warm, and.
Speaker 1 (36:11):
There are places you can get that kind of cuisine
here in the United States. We're not talking food today.
This is actually about the fourth of July. But if
you're going to part of it, but if you're gonna go,
you might as well eat, might as well. You can
find these kind of great international experiences right here in
the USA.
Speaker 2 (36:28):
I know, I mean rare to think that there. We've
mentioned them here a time or two before when we've
talked about other destinations, how they mimic or look very
similar to a European but we're focused entirely on that today,
focused entirely on these towns, some of which you may
not have ever heard of, some of which you may
(36:49):
have heard of, obviously. I think probably most people listening
have heard of New Orleans, that you think, but some
of these other places not so much, you know. Now.
One of the other ones I want to mention right
now is another one that we're going to catapult too,
in Michigan, and this is Mackinaw Island.
Speaker 1 (37:06):
We've talked about Mcinawell Harry I think grew up around
that part of the world.
Speaker 2 (37:10):
He sure did. Yep. They have no cars, just carriages
and bikes. It is a Victorian dream. Oh and if
you take a little closer look here, mckinaw Island is
often compared to Europe, maybe even parts of the UK
because of its unique blend. It's got that historic charm,
(37:33):
that European architectural influences. Of course, I said, car free
environment reminiscent of some European towns. Now, specifically, the island's
historic Fort Mackinaw is a well preserved Victorian era architecture,
and the reliance on horse drawn carriages and bikes for
(37:55):
transportation really kind of evoke a sense of stepping back
in time, similar to what you might have experienced in
parts of Europe. Now. I watch a couple of mystery
shows on TV. I'm pretty really partial to some of
these mystery shows, and one of them is set back
(38:16):
in the Victorian era and they have the horse drawn carriages.
The ladies, of course wear their long Victorian dresses and
carry their parasols and that kind of thing. That's Mackinaw.
Speaker 1 (38:29):
Hmm.
Speaker 2 (38:29):
Okay, that's a picture of Mackinaw And if you wonder
what they do over the Fourth of July, they have
these historic parades, they have concerts and fireworks over Lake Huron.
What they celebrate there is really kind of a unique
Americana experience because they've got a mix of historical reenactments,
(38:50):
they've got family friendly activities, spectacular of course, fireworks display.
They've got festivities that include the WT Robbie Stone skipping
competition that sounds fun, Yeah, I know, right, old fashioned
carnival games at Windermere Point and a star spangled celebration
at Fort Mackinaw featuring nineteenth century demonstrations and cannon salutes.
(39:15):
We don't see that much around anymore, but they do that.
And the day culminates, of course in fireworks over the harbor.
So you've got all of this kind of Victorian kind
of thing going on, a little bit like the Great Gatsby,
if you will, sort of that feeling, that vibe, you know,
which sort of takes you back in time as well
(39:37):
as transports you to a different land. Yeah, so I
think that's really kind of interesting. And if you're interested
of where to stay, there's really only one place. It's
the Grand Hotel. It's famous for its expansive porch there
it goes across the whole place. Tea. They have high
tea there of course, just like they do in London
(40:00):
and period elegance. They opened their doors back in eighteen
eighty seven. They were a summer retreat for vacationers who
actually traveled to Michigan by train and then came back
to Mackinaw Island via steamer and boat. And this is
where they stayed throughout its time as America's summer place.
One family nurtured and guided this hotel growth to a
(40:24):
highly celebrated and much love getaway that we know today
as the Grand Hotel. And today this National Historic Landmark
continues to accept guests with old world hospitality and charm
those all those inspired enhancements and a heritage to be
preserved for generations to come. So it's really great. And
(40:46):
speaking of the Grand Hotel and great places to eat,
that's where you want to dine too, because they have
the Grand Dining Room. They also have a great area
where people have picnics around the green and Hotel that
overlook the river and the fort. Because really there is
no five star resort that can come close to the
(41:07):
outdoor experience on Mackinac Islands. So a picnic on the water.
Speaker 1 (41:12):
Yes, please, that sounds very nice.
Speaker 2 (41:14):
It does, it does. So Mackinaw Islands sound like someplace
that would beckon you, Chris.
Speaker 1 (41:22):
I mean you're heading it out of the park today.
Every one of these locations would be on my list.
Speaker 2 (41:27):
Yeah. They're pretty nice, you know, pretty nice way to
just unwind, not overcrowded, not super crowded.
Speaker 1 (41:33):
And not hard to get to.
Speaker 2 (41:34):
And not hard to get to exactly. So those all
make four I think splendid reasons to go. Next on
our list is Saint Augustine, Florida. This is a Spanish
area and one that's going to produce a lot of
Fourth of July splendor. You've got Spanish missions here, Mexican influences,
(41:56):
You've got that festive river walk charm. Saint Augustine, Florida
is often described as having a European feel, particularly a
Spanish one, due to it's this history. It's the oldest
continuously inhabited European established settlement. Try and say that again
(42:17):
in the United States. The city's architecture, the whole layout
of the city. The historical landmarks all reflect that Spanish
colonial past, and it offers really a glimpse into what
some consider old Europe. Are you looking at it there?
Speaker 1 (42:37):
Well, I'm looking at also. I didn't realize where it was.
I always assumed it was down in the southern tip
of Florida. It's just south of Jacksonville.
Speaker 2 (42:43):
It is. Yeah, it's more than in the northern yeah
of Florida.
Speaker 1 (42:47):
Well, we could get there in a day's drive.
Speaker 2 (42:48):
Here you go, I go. You could.
Speaker 1 (42:51):
It's beautiful, or you could.
Speaker 2 (42:52):
Fly like And if you want to know what they
do over the Fourth of July, well, Saint Augustine blows
it out of the water. They celebrate the Fourth of
July with fireworks over the Montazes. That's a free event
featuring a concert and a spectacular fireworks display at Montazas Bay.
(43:15):
The celebration begins at six pm with a free concert
by the All Star Orchestra in the Plaza de la Constitution.
They play patriotic of course, and big band music, and
that firework show starts at about nine point thirty, with
the best viewing spots along the bayfront between Costello di
(43:36):
San Marcos and the Bridge of lions. So this is
exactly where you want to be if you are in
Saint Augustine and celebrating the Fourth of July. There again,
they kind of knock it out of the park. This
is all about how they do it big in Florida
for the Fourth of July. They have a ball, you know,
and why not. They're close to the beach, they're close
(43:58):
to the water. All the good reasons Fourth of July
should be celebrated in grand style, and of course all
the patriotic music. I think they even bring boats into
the harbor there.
Speaker 1 (44:10):
I'm looking at pictures of the sailboats are bringing in.
Speaker 2 (44:13):
Yeah. So I mean all the reasons why Saint Augustine
wound up on the list of great places that feel
international even though you're in the United States. And if
you want to know where to stay luxury hotel property
there called the Collection. Travelers that are looking for a
storied kind of retreat, they're going to have a great
(44:35):
time in the iconic hotel in Saint Augustine's historic district.
It's one of the home of it's actually it was
once the home of the Down Museum of Historic Houses
and it's now a thoughtfully curated hotel that tells its
century old story through art and architecture. They weave into
(44:56):
it kind of a modern, high end experience of hospitality.
Really beautiful place, don't you think.
Speaker 1 (45:05):
Tell me the name again, I wasn't typing called the
collection the collection. I wasn't typing fast enough. All right,
let me see if.
Speaker 2 (45:11):
I can find that now, if you want to know
where to dine. While he's looking that up, visitors really
can go on sort of a explosive gastronomic journey that
spans the globe again without leaving this region. They're known
in Saint Augustine for fresh, locally sourced seafood. The area
(45:33):
really offers kind of a variety of delicious options, from
shrimp to oysters, to grouper and mahi mahi, which is
one of my favorites.
Speaker 1 (45:41):
Love it.
Speaker 2 (45:42):
What do you think about the collection?
Speaker 1 (45:44):
This feels and maybe it's why it's called a collection.
It feels like it's a small neighborhood and you're staying
in a house exactly, and they've got these little courtyards
that are walled off and a little stone walls that
are beautiful. I don't know, I'm.
Speaker 2 (46:01):
Very European looking right.
Speaker 1 (46:03):
Yes, I say yes to all of this.
Speaker 2 (46:05):
Yes, looks like a great place to take a vacation.
And you know, sometimes we often sort of gravitate to
the ordinary. What is this show called a life less Ordinary?
And that's what we do. We take you on a
journey to these places where you may not have ever
(46:25):
thought about going, but that are going to create a
more extraordinary experience for you as a vacation, as an investment,
because that's what a vacation is. It's an investment. It's
an investment of your time. It's an investment of money.
And shouldn't you really be able to get the best
out of it and find the best as you travel
(46:49):
to it? And certainly Saint Augustine checks those boxes. If
you're looking for a great place to eat, to find
some of these locally sourced seafood and some of the
best foods, there is a place called fish Camp. It's
got a few other locations actually in coastal Florida, but
it's still not what you'd ever call a chain. It's
(47:11):
really not. It's called the Fish Camp. Great unique place,
well crafted dishes on the menu that feature local fare
and the decors at Saint Augustine Fish Camp is really
kind of upscale, nautical. It's open, it's modern, and it's
(47:32):
immediately welcoming. It's a great spot close to the water.
So I know we don't have enough time, Chris to
really hit hard a lot of these other places, but
I just wanted to mention them anyway, because I think
they are worth going to see. They have some great
(47:52):
things to see and do there. They fit the box.
They check the boxes for international vibes within the United
States and great Fourth of July celebrations. One such place
is Newport, Rhode Island. We call this the Gilded Age
of Grandeur. They have bell epic excellence there that meets
(48:14):
kind of coastal Americana. I know it's kind of in
New England. Do we call it that, Well, we call
it that for a reason. We say New England because
it does really, in fact, kind of look a bit
English when you get there for Fourth of July. They've
got historic parades, harbor fireworks. Of course, they have lawn concerts.
(48:35):
If you're looking for the best place to stay, it's
going to be the Chandler at Cliff Walk. That is
the place to stay. Another place on my list you
were talking about Italian Where could you go to hit
that Italian vibe? Well, there is a place in California
called Venice, Just Venice, California, of all places. Yep, they've
(48:56):
even got Venetian canals there. Yeah, beach culture, artistry energy there.
Fourth of July, they've got fireworks on the beach, rooftop parties,
local parades. Best place to stay is the Hotel Irwin.
And then next on my list for a little bit
of Greek influence. Thought this was fun and actually I've
(49:18):
been looking at this place to go myself, just on
a quick getaway. Tarpon Springs, Florida. They are very very
heavy into the Greek vibe there. They were actually founded
by Greek sponge divers, which is really interesting. And this
town brings that Hellenic culture to thet golf on Fourth
(49:40):
of July. They've got boat parades, buy you fireworks, Greek
music and food. Best place to stay there is the
don Cesar. That one has to be the best place.
Great places to dine there. Last one I want to
mention is probably one that nobody's ever heard about. If
you're looking for a little Sweden in the United States.
(50:03):
Didn't know it even existed. You'll find it in Linzbourg, Kansas, Linzburg, Kansas,
Scandinavian traditions and charm. In the American Midwest on Fourth
of July, they celebrate with traditional parades, bonfires, Swedish folk music.
You're not going to hear probably a lot of Americana,
(50:24):
but you will hear Swedish polkas. And the best place
to stay there is Vikings on Maine. Best place to
dine Crown and Rye for meatballs, crapes and cardaman rolls.
Sounds amazing to me. So really we've covered a lot,
from Bavarian beer gardens in Georgia, Greek waterfronts in Florida. Chris,
(50:48):
I think we went all over the place.
Speaker 1 (50:50):
I think, as I'm listening to all these, you have
to pick a place that's got the beer gardens. Because
nothing says Happy Birthday, USA like having a good beer
in your hands.
Speaker 2 (50:59):
That's what I hear. That's what I hear.
Speaker 1 (51:01):
And maybe a grill somewhere.
Speaker 2 (51:02):
Maybe so yeah, and maybe you wouldn't have to grill,
just find some of these great places to eat. I'd
be all about that. So go ahead, like a sparkler
in a Swedish village sip A, Sangria, beside a Spanish fort.
I think your Independence Day just got a world class
adventure here on a lifeless ordinary today.
Speaker 1 (51:23):
And honestly, anywhere that they're setting off fireworks is a
great place to be.
Speaker 2 (51:26):
I know it is, and I always love that. You know,
the poor little animals around don't think much of it.
Speaker 1 (51:31):
My dog doesn't like it.
Speaker 2 (51:32):
I'm sure he doesn't, but you know, everybody kind of
gets into it, and it's this is a great year
to celebrate. Happy Birthday, USA, celebrate the fourth of July
and style, no matter what you're doing, really celebrate it is.
This is the land of freedom, and everybody, everybody wants
to live here. So we're lucky, we're fortunate, we're blessed.
(51:54):
We get to live in the land that everybody else
wants to be in, right.
Speaker 1 (51:59):
Want to live anywhere else.
Speaker 2 (52:00):
I know.
Speaker 1 (52:02):
Well, even if you're not traveling anywhere exciting this fourth
of July, there's going to be fireworks around you somewhere.
Go out and celebrate your freedom with the people that
you live near, and you know, think of us while
you're having your beer.
Speaker 2 (52:15):
Yeah, and if any of these places sound interesting to you,
please give me a call at the wishing Well. I
would be delighted to help you. I am so easy
to find. I'm located in Heresonburg, Virginia at two forty
three NEF Avenue in the Valley Center, and you can
find us at if you want to call us, we'd
love that too. Call us at five four oh nine
oh eight two three three three, or look us up
(52:38):
on the web. We are at the Wishingwell dot us.
Speaker 1 (52:41):
This has been a life less ordinary, the travel show
from your friends at the wishing Well at two forty
three neph Avenue in Harrisonburg. If you have any questions
on topics discussed today, please reach out to the wishing
Well online at the wishing Well dopiz or five four
oh nine oh eight twenty three thirty three.
Speaker 2 (52:58):
Eight.
Speaker 1 (52:58):
Past episodes are available on the I Heart Radio app.
And we'll see again next Saturday morning at ten for
a lifeless Ordinary from the wishing Well
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.