There might be some light at the end of the assembly line for Oshawa - but it will come with a price. According to the Windsor Star, the plant's Consolidated Line, which produces the Chevrolet Equinox in an overflow capacity using bodies shuttled from CAMI, won't get another stay of execution and will certainly close in […]
The post Oshawa Will Lose 'Doomed' Consolidated Line in 2017: Report appeared first on The Truth About Cars.
There's few feelings more stomach-churning than looking up from your mirror (or radio) and seeing an amber light looming ahead. Do you go for it, or hit the brakes? If the intersection boats red light cameras, the potential fines make a good argument for mashing the pedal on the left. That's how the cameras are […]
The post Study Shows Red Light Cameras Reduce Accidents, so Why the Hate? appeared first on The Truth About Cars.
Without a doubt travelers are going to be on edge especially pregnant women and those that want to get pregnant in the next couple of years. However, women aren't the only ones who have to cancel or be extra vigilant when traveling to affected areas because there have been cases of the virus being transmitted sexually.
If you have a trip scheduled to Florida and want to cancel, some types of insurance will allow it. Here's more info.
The post Zika Virus Is Now in Florida appeared first on Johnny Jet.
We really feel for Lost Abbey. They make a pretty amazing beer by the name of Duck Duck Gooze. It takes a full three years to produce. Because of that, there aren't a whole lot of bottles to go around. The problem – selling them.
Lines for beer releases are time consuming and get crazy. Then there is the proxy/beer mule situation, where folks want to stack their cellars, or trade.
So.. for the one every three years release, the brewery uses their e-commerce platform, run by Nexternal. On Tuesday, the site crashed with the fans frantically clicking and refreshing the store. That… got ugly fast.
After postponing the online sale until today, Nexternal shit the bed again. The link didn't go live on time. Guess what happened… the “fans” of the brewery turned on Lost Abbey once again. Here is a smattering of the hatred, mean comments, and entitlement that the brewery had to deal with today. They communicated every step, and apologized profusely. It fell on deaf ears.
Lost Abbey did an amazing job despite the onslaught. Wish we could buy you a beer.
Honestly, Instagram comments were even uglier. Sad world.
Update. After three site crashes, Lost Abbey has decided to cancel all the orders, and refund everyone's money. They are going to reset over the weekend and find a strong, fair, solution.
As you can imagine, the comments just got uglier.
I'm not getting my rare beer, so I'm going destroy everything
@JuanC611@lostabbey I just might burn my Lost Abbey bottles tonight
- Derek Alvarez (@dka67) July 29, 2016
Refresh SO HARD.
@lostabbey Do they come with a free F5 key? I need a new one
- Matthew Young (@MTYCPA) July 29, 2016
Don't be dumb and buy beer.
@lostabbey We are the idiots, we keep buying there product. It's like a dog you pet when they shit on your floor. They just keep doing it.
- Surfnbeer (@surfnbeer) July 29, 2016
A Internet Lesson offer
@lostabbey do you guys know how the fucking internet works?
- michael alessi (@The_Real_Alessi) July 29, 2016
Lunch on Lost Abbey.
@lostabbey you owe me lunch
- Steven Springer (@MilwaukeeSteven) July 29, 2016
Give everyone free bottles
.@lostabbey How about you get the login logs for everyone and give everyone a bottle? For their pains. And next time use BPT.
- Philip Skinner (@KayakPhilip) July 29, 2016
Heartless brewery just wants your money.
@lostabbey 3 days wasn't enough time? Unreal. Not like you give a shit. Hype beast will sell out in seconds. Sweet business you're running
- Jake S (@thereraise) July 29, 2016
Sick burn.
@lostabbey ballast point is better
- sizz (@s_seifi) July 29, 2016
Then Lost Abbey attempted to use Brown Paper Tickets...
@lostabbey Duck Duck fans running over to BPT like pic.twitter.com/ZrbElXdbJO
- Golden Slippers (@GSBirding) July 29, 2016
And… Brown Paper Tickets crashed. Behold the power of the beer geek.
I'm dying laughing at this @lostabbey #DuckDuckGooze sale. Nexternal and BPT servers have both been brought to their knees by beer geeks.
- Sean Maisch (@SeanMaisch) July 29, 2016
That's thinking outside the box.
@lostabbey if everyone who is complaining because they have jobs were actually working we wouldn't be having this problem
- Jordan Shamburg (@jcshamburg) July 29, 2016
Harsh.
This is @lostabbey 's slogan right now with last week and their new BPT fiasco pic.twitter.com/ASCMmjKTIX
- Jon Strande (@Jon_Strande) July 29, 2016
Russian River fan.
@lostabbey seriously people have other things to do… Imbeciles… Rather wait on line for Pliny younger than deal with this shit
- Lloyd Wilson (@lgwilson305) July 29, 2016
Finally, Lost Abbey went to Eventbrite. This says it all.
LOL @lostabbey's mentions went from hate to pure joy in the span of a couple minutes.
- Beard Brews (@beardbrews) July 29, 2016
See!! All is well!!
Oh shit.
The post Duck Duck Ouch. Round 2 appeared first on Beer Street Journal.
Kauai's beautiful coast
It was an exciting day for the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay (3-5920 Kuhio Highway, Kapaa, Hawaii, 96746; 1-808-823-6000), as the property's grand opening marked the arrival of the first Hilton Garden Inn in Hawaii. Now, travelers can find a Hilton Garden Inn in each of the 50 states!
I was excited to be invited by Hilton Garden Inn to be part of the grand opening festivities for this special property on Kauai's east coast. By the time my stay was over, I could see not only why this property is so special for the brand but also how it offers a unique experience for visiting travelers and locals alike. Here's what I mean:
View from my patio
Unspoiled nature at your door
One of my favorite things about the hotel was that the beach and unspoiled surrounding area-namely Wailua River State Park and Lydgate Beach. There was a very relaxed vibe to the place.
The Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay looks out over scenic Wailua Bay, where the famous Wailua River meets the Pacific. My room was on the bottom floor and looked out onto the pool and looking on further, I could see Wailua Bay.
Chickens
Oh, and don't forget the chickens! Yes, that's right, there were chickens that greeted me at my ocean- and pool-front patio when I opened the door. I can see how they could be scary to some, but I loved them. For me, they added to the unspoiled feel of the place. Just don't feed them and they'll keep to themselves!
I've been to other parts of Kauai that felt very much like resorts. It was nice to have this scenery for a change.
Ocean and pool views
You have the option to stay on the first level (as I did), with easy access from your patio to the pool and ocean. The other rooms above me were nice because they offered better views of the ocean, but I preferred my room for its easy access to swimming and also its view of the pool and ocean.
Two-room cottage
Even more space
Just down from the pool area are two-room cottages with separate areas for sleeping and living. They're a great size for a family or large group wanting more privacy at 685 square feet. Plus, guests of these cottages also get their own lanais. There are also grills nearby for barbecuing and family fun.
Grand opening festivities
The property also has a good amount of meeting space including the Kuhio Ballroom, the Hilton Conservatory, Mokihana room and the Palms deck. At the grand opening, we watched the locals present local songs and dance for us in the Kuhio Ballroom. I really loved the song and dance much better than the luaus I've seen before, because not only did they explain where each song or dance came from but also included whole families in the presentation. This extra local touch made the grand opening really special.
Open-air lobby
Open-air lobby and bar
The aloha spirit just beams from the lobby when you first see it. There are gorgeous high ceilings, with local art and pops of color. I was told the last hotel (which was resurrected as the Hilton Garden Inn) had closed this area off, and a big part of the renovation was opening up the lobby to let the light brighten the space. It made for a relaxing spot we regularly came to for a beverage at night.
I was also able to sample some of the food from the Garden Grille, and it was authentic and fresh. I loved the little things like the coconut syrup that went with the waffles in the morning!
John Greenleaf, global head of the Hilton Garden Inn
The history of the hotel-and Hilton's plans
In talking with the locals that performed traditional songs and dances for the grand opening, I heard again and again how much Kauai and this hotel means to them. It's been a staple in the community for so long, under different names. Some of the locals remembered coming to the hotel after prom many years ago! Others brought their entire family for brunch on Father's Day (I observed just how packed it can get for breakfast on Father's Day).
During the grand opening ceremony John Greenleaf, global head of the Hilton Garden Inn brand, mentioned that this hotel is one of 60 hotels that Hilton will add this year. He also discussed the significance of Kauai and the hotel brand:
“Kauai is the island that most people return to that made a trip to any of the islands within the state of Hawaii and that's something we aspire to do with the Hilton Garden Inn brand,” said Greenleaf. “[The team here] is dedicated to do that, creating a wonderful relationship with guests and an outstanding hospitality experience so that the guests come back not just to this hotel but to other Hilton Garden Inns.”
During your stay, if you're interested in learning more about the local Hawaiian culture of Kauai, you can listen to Kamealoha, the hotel's local cultural advisor, talk.
Ziplining with Koloa Ziplines
Near the hotel: Adventure & eating
There are many things to do nearby the hotel. You can play golf at Wailua Golf Course (read more about the course and four others here) and visit the famous Fern Grotto and the Nounou “Sleeping Giant” hiking trail. I enjoyed time at the beach and running on the Ka Ala Hele Makalae walking and biking path, which you can pick up at the hotel for a scenic oceanfront view. (You can also get a bike from the hotel!) For oceanfront dining and fresh seafood near the hotel (10-minute drive), check out Sam's Ocean View in Kapaa and Puka Dog for a polish sausage on Hawaiian sweetbread.
If you're in the mood for a bit more of an adventure, you can kayak to Wailua and Opaekaa Falls or zipline. I opted for the ziplining with Koloa Ziplines, and I'm glad that I did because the views were spectacular. I also came to realize that Koloa has three of the longest ziplines on the island.
Na Pali Coast via helicopter
Up in the air
The Lihue airport (more on the Lihue airport here) is less than a 10-minute drive, meaning easy transportation coming and going but also you are close to the helicopter rides!
Jurassic Park Falls
A helicopter ride with Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours, to see Kauai from above, is a must. I was impressed by how much our helicopter pilot knew about the island! He pointed out the famous Jurassic Park Falls and Na Pali Coast as well as lesser-known hiking trails and beaches. His knowledge on Kauai waterfalls amazed me and I wanted to be the expert that he was. He would say things like, “That waterfall to our left is particularly full today,” and “This waterfall to your right is a waterfall we don't see too often in Kauai.” Since he's doing helicopter tours several times a day, it makes sense that he gets the time to study these waterfalls from the air!
For more on Kaua'i: An Incomplete Guide to the Jurassic Island of Kaua'i, Hawaii.
Next week: Coverage of Hawaii's second Hilton Garden Inn in Waikiki.
For more on the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, check out the hotel's page here. All photos credited to Caitlin Martin.
The post Live from Kaua'i: The First Hilton Garden Inn Opens in Hawaii appeared first on Johnny Jet.
Wicked Weed Silencio once a Canvas Series release last fall, has returned. Check out the hot new artwork.
Wicked Weed Silencio is a sour black ale, aged in Kentucky bourbon barrels with vanilla beans, and Mountain Air Roasting Coffee.
Bottles are now available at the brewery. Limited distribution starts now.
Style: American Wild Ale (w/ Coffee. Vanilla Beans. Barrel Aged. Bourbon.)
Availability: 500ml Bottles
Latest Return: Late July, 2016
7.4% ABV
Image: Wicked Weed Brewing
The post Wicked Weed Silencio breaks free of Canvas Series appeared first on Beer Street Journal.
Apple's annoyingly mysterious self-driving unicorn car project has a new team member. Dan Dodge, founder and former CEO of Blackberry's QNX automotive software division, has already joined the ranks of Apple's shadowy “Project Titan” team, Bloomberg reports. After endless speculation about the future iCar (and what it will look like), sources close to the company say […]
The post Apple Hires Blackberry Exec for Car Project; Project Team Heads in New Direction appeared first on The Truth About Cars.
Want to know how to travel in style, just like the pros? We check in with frequent fliers to find out how often they fly, their favorite destinations and what they never leave home without.
Rui Bom
Name: Rui Bom
Occupation: Homeless entrepreneur at 30K.com
Hometown: Lisbon
Residence: Brazil, Portugal, China, Philippines, Indonesia
College: ISCTE Lisbon
College major: Business Administration
Website: 30k.com
Twitter: @30kdotcom
Facebook: 30K.com
YouTube: 30K.com
Short bio: After seven years working for what many consider the best marketing company in the world (Unilever) managing $150MM+ brands both in Europe and in China, I felt it was time to embrace the ultimate adrenaline-pumping challenge-start-ups-and so I decided to co-found 30K back in 2012. It's been an amazing experience that has also allowed me to continue exploring one of my dreams: traveling while working. Since then I've lived in Germany, Philippines, Indonesia, and Brazil and I'm really looking forward to what's coming up next.
How often do you fly? At least twice a month.
How many countries have you been to? Don't keep track but at least 40.
How many continents have you been to? All of them except for Antarctica.
Earliest travel memory: Summer holidays in the south of Spain, where all the drunken Brits and Germans go☺
Favorite American city: Chicago.
Favorite international city: Tokyo.
I have no desire to go to: The moon.
Friendliest people in the world: The Philippines.
Country with the meanest immigration officers: USA (I was going to say China but think US is actually worse).
Favorite World Heritage Site: Great Wall of China.
Favorite airline: All Nippon Airways (don't think you can beat the service levels of Japanese airlines).
Favorite aircraft type: A380.
Aisle or window: The whole row for myself (aka Entrepreneur class).
Favorite airport lounge: Istanbul Turkish Airlines lounge.
Favorite U.S. airport: JFK.
Favorite international airport: Singapore.
Favorite hotel: Ritz-Carlton Sanya (China).
Favorite island: Malcapuya Island in the Philippines.
Favorite beach: Malcapuya Island.
Favorite fancy restaurant: Not sure I can call it fancy but Sushi Zanmai in Tokyo (best sushi place ever, right by the Tsukiji fish market).
Favorite bar: Rock Bar (Bali).
Favorite fruit: Avocado.
Favorite food: Anything Japanese (except for shabu shabu).
Least favorite food: Shabu shabu. How can someone stand so much boiled stuff?
Drink of choice (in the air and on the ground): Water.
Favorite travel movie(s): Into the Wild (amazing soundtrack by Eddie Vedder).
Favorite travel show(s): Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations.
Right now I am reading: An amazing (and disturbing) post on artificial intelligence and the future of the human race (apparently this is the only blog Elon Musk reads).
Favorite travel website(s)-besides JohnnyJet.com, of course! 30k.com of course ☺
5 things you bring on a plane: Podcasts to listen to, earphones, earplugs, sleeping mask, and a jacket (damn air conditioning).
What do you always seem to forget? Medication in case necessary.
What do you like least about travel? Packing, security checks and immigration.
What do you want your loved one to buy you from an airport Duty Free store? The latest gadget (have you seen this one?).
Favorite travel app(s): Google Maps (did I mention already how awful my sense of direction is? Pretty accurate description of how I feel.
Most embarrassing travel moment: Missing an important flight not realizing Apr 15th 00:15 was actually 16 minutes after 11:59 pm on Apr 14th and not on Apr 16th.
I'm embarrassed I haven't been to: To a lot of places part of my own (small) country-Portugal.
Worst travel moment: Eating a bunch of wasabi during my first visit to Japan. See what happens when you attempt something as crazy as that.
What's your dream destination? Namibia for a safari trip.
Best travel tip: How to pack like a pro.
The post Travel Style: Rui Bom appeared first on Johnny Jet.
Brussels, Belgium
A new survey by Allianz Travel Insurance confirms that terrorist attacks are a big factor in travel right now, with almost a quarter (22%) of Americans reporting that they will (or have already thought to) cancel, delay, relocate, change, or reconsider travel plans as a result of terrorism concerns. The survey also showed that 86% of Americans are concerned about attacks occurring while they're on vacation in various regions of the world.
Of the 22% of Americans who say the climate has changed their plans internationally, most were traveling to Europe (42%), with the rest planning on Asia (29%), Latin America (26%), Australia and the South Pacific (26%), the Middle East (22%), or Africa (21%).
However, Allianz analyzed flight bookings to Europe during the summer and found a 10% overall increase compared to last summer.
“What we're seeing is that the American traveler is a complex demographic that shares common fears and concerns, but deviate greatly on where they find those fears and how they face them,” said Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Global Assistance.
“But we're pleased to see that whatever those differences are, one thing that remains consistent is that they are finding ways to follow their passion of seeing the world despite the challenges that come with traveling in a time of terror.”
Allianz Global Assistance offers insurance to help travelers continue to travel but with an extra peace of mind. Allianz offers insurance through major US airlines, travel agents, online travel agencies, and directly-as with my plan.
Disclaimer: Johnny Jet works as an ambassador for Allianz Global Assistance (AGA Service Company) and receives financial compensation.
For more information about Allianz Global, visit AllianzTravelInsurance.com.
The post Allianz: Terrorism Risk Is a Factor for Americans Planning Vacations appeared first on Johnny Jet.
Creature Comforts Athena Paradiso with Passionfruit and Guava is the next iteration in the “Athena” lineup.
The brewery launched with Athena, a kettle soured wheat beer, aka berliner weisse a few years ago. In February, 2016 the Athens, Georgia based brewery released the first canned Athena Paradiso, brewed with tart cherry, raspberry, and cranberry. Creature Comforts tells Beer Street Journal that it was the most expensive recipe they've ever made.
In August, Creature Comforts Athena Paradiso with Passionfruit and Guava will join the seasonal lineup.
“Athena Paradiso is a beautifully refreshing beer. The passion fruit and guava flavors transport you to a tropical paradise during these hot summer months.” – David Stein, Co-founder & head brewer
Creature Comforts Athena Paradiso with Passionfruit and Guava will be an extremely limited release in 12 ounce cans and draft. Note, the can will sport the same red Paradiso branding as the February release.
Style: Berliner Weisse (w/ Guava, Passionfruit.)
Availability: 12oz Cans, Draft. Limited seasonal.
Debut: August, 2016
4.5% ABV
The post Creature Comforts Athena Paradiso with Passionfruit and Guava cans in August appeared first on Beer Street Journal.
The post Travel Contests: Week of July 27, 2016 appeared first on Johnny Jet.
Stone Enjoy By Unfiltered IPA joined the “Enjoy By” drink fresh lineup for the first time this year. The next release is coming in August.
Stone Enjoy By Unfiltered IPA is based on the original Enjoy By IPA, with a brewing step omitted. The brewery doesn't filter out the extra yeast, hop sediment, and proteins that occur during the process.
The result, as described by Stone Brewing, is enhanced tropical and peach flavors from the hops. The result is a golden, hazy, imperial IPA.
Like its filtered counterpart, this IPA is brewed specifically NOT to last, and is shipped immediately to ensure hopheads get their hands on it as soon as possible.
Stone Enjoy By Unfiltered IPA will return again as Enjoy By 09.05.16, starting August 1st.
Style: Imperial IPA
Hops: Nugget,Super Galena, Delta, Target, Amarillo, Cascade, Galaxy, Citra, Nelson Sauvin, Motueka, Helga
Availability: 22oz Bottles, 12oz Bottles, Draft
Release: 8/1/16
9.4% ABV, 90 IBUs
Ed note: This article will serve as the primary source for each return of this beer going forward. Bookmark it for more.
The post Stone Enjoy By Unfiltered IPA returns again on August 1st appeared first on Beer Street Journal.
New Belgium Brewing has almost completed their Asheville, North Carolina brewery build. With that project near completion, the brewery is already looking into a new chapter. Hard cider.
In July, ever-so-quietly, New Belgium released small batches of Side Trip Series cider. Draft appeared in market in Asheville at a special debut event at the well known Thirsty Monk, then cans at local retailers.
Surprised? We were too.
New Belgium has excelled over the years in the ale and wild ale categories. Fat Tire is a beer household name. The wood cellar at the Fort Collins, Colorado brewery is a pilgrimage for many. What does a brewery do when they have done so many outstanding things? They start the groundwork on what looks to be a future cidery.
Right now there are two ciders in the Side Trip Series. Dry, and Semi-Dry. The difference in the two is basically the amount of residual sugar left after fermentation. The “dry” cider has the least amount of sugar. Both styles are clean and refreshing.
New Belgium is canning in Vermont, with the help of renowned cider maker, Woodchuck. The apples, are New York and New England apples. In the future, the brewery would like to use all local North Carolina apples. According to the state's Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the demand is already so high for the state's apples, a national cider program by New Belgium would require new orchards. That's around a 5 year grow time.
If New Belgium goes national with this cider program, the brewery mentions they will end up adding a full blown cidery facility. That build is a bit down the road right now.
In our opinion, these ciders are already a home run. A fantastic showing of versatility and quality from New Belgium.
If you are in the Asheville area anytime soon, you'll find these cans exclusively at select retailers.
The post First Look: New Belgium Cider appeared first on Beer Street Journal.
AleSmith Decadence 2016, a rotating style and birthday beer for the brewery is hitting shelves.
2005 was the first release of Alesmith Decadence, brewed to celebrate the first 10 years in business. Each year since, the brewers create their own special recipe for the celebratory release.
AleSmith Decadence 2016 is inspired by Anchor Brewing's Steam Beer, dating back to 1971. The style is known elsewhere as a California common.
AleSmith created an imperial Cali common for the occasion. Keeping stylistically sound, the brewery fermented a lager at warmer ale temperatures. The process causes the yeast to different flavors than if fermented colder. Per the brewery, the resulting beer is “a combination of fruity, mineral-like flavors, borne from the lager yeast esters.” Interestingly, this is the only time AleSmith has ever brewed this beer.
AleSmith Decadence 2016 is available in 750 milliliter bottles and draft.
Style: Imperial California Common
Availability: 750ml Bottles. Limited Release. July-Oct
Debut: July, 2016
Distribution: CA, CO, CT, IL, MA, ME, MN, NC, NY, OH, OR, RI, VA, VT and WA
9.5% ABV
Image: AleSmith Brewing
The post AleSmith Decadence 2016 honors Anchor & a California style appeared first on Beer Street Journal.
The National Transportation Safety Board didn't assign any blame in its initial report into the fatal May 7 crash of a Tesla Model S, but did confirm new details. The agency claims Joshua Brown's vehicle was in Autopilot mode at the time of the crash, and was travelling above the 65 mile per hour speed […]
The post Driver in Fatal Tesla Crash was Speeding While on Autopilot: NHTSA appeared first on The Truth About Cars.
Ask If There Are More Security Checkpoints
My buddy Ramsey (@DailyTravelTips) recently tweeted a tip that I always consider but had never thought to share-for some strange reason. But Ramsey's right: “Many airports have more than one security checkpoint. Ask if another has shorter lines. You might save time!”
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The post Travel Tip of the Day: Ask If There Are More Security Checkpoints appeared first on Johnny Jet.
Ever wish you knew the inside scoop before visiting a new destination? Now you can! We've reached out to our favorite locals and tour guides from all over the world for their insider tips. In the City Insider (here, Island Insider) Q&A, they'll let you in on the spots that should be on your must-see and -do list!
Yvette Rogers
Name: Yvette Rogers
Occupation: Outreach Coordinator, Celtic Colours International Festival
City: Cape Breton Island, NS
Twitter: @billievanillie
Instagram: billieyvette
Short bio: Yvette Rogers is passionate about Cape Breton Island. Yvette is Outreach Coordinator for the Celtic Colours International Festival; does freelance work independently as a community outreach consultant; and is an actor, dancer, singer, and songwriter.
Quickly, on Cape Breton, Nova Scotia: Note that the geography is very varied on the island. In the eastern corner (Louisbourg area) you'll find coniferous forest, granite cliffs and rugged windswept coastlines; on the west side you'll find soft, rolling farmlands that seem to fold down touch the sea, sandy beaches; in the northwest highlands you'll find dramatic mountains with velvet-soft-looking tops, mixed forests, just jaw-dropping simple beauty; and in the northeast corner (Ingonish, Neil's Harbour) you'll find charming fishing villages, sea-softened, pink rocks with natural lines and fissures. It is a geologist's dream. The island is really beautiful.
Best way to get to/from airport: Vehicle. To get around the island you're going to need a vehicle.
Best way to get to/from train station: Drive…but you won't be catching a train anywhere anytime soon, there are no passenger train options available at this time.
Favorite five-star hotel: The Hampton (Sydney), Island Sunset Resort (Belle Cote).
Favorite budget hotel: Merry's Motel (Cheticamp), Iona Heights Inn (Iona).
5 places visitors must see:
Best local newspaper/recommended reading (for finding out what's going on about town): Whatsgoinon.ca (online magazine).
Favorite historical fact: The region at the top of the island (north of Cape Smokey Mountain) is often referred to as “Down North.” The reason for this is that many years ago, people from the coastal fishing villages in this region would do supply runs to and from the Sydney area. Due to the great distance and length of time it would take to travel by ground (especially then, we're talking dirt roads, horse and carriage) from the highlands southward to Sydney, they'd be going against the gulf stream of the Atlantic and it felt like traveling uphill, and when traveling from Sydney area to the highlands they had the gulf stream in their favour and it felt like traveling downhill, hence the term “Down North.”
Favorite fine dining restaurant: The Bite House (hands-down the best best best). Baddeck Forks, reservation-only table-d'hote menu with predominately locally sourced ingredients. So nice! Charming little farmhouse, spectacular five-course meal. Great wine and beverage selections also.
Favorite casual restaurant: Olive Tree (Sydney), Black Spoon (North Sydney), Flavor Downtown (Sydney), Danena's (South Harbour-casual atmosphere, gourmet dinner menu).
Favorite greasy spoon: Tie between Collette's Place (Glace Bay) and Robena's (North Sydney). All-day breakfasts, friendly service, consistently good. Both places offer local comfort-food fare as well, like cabbage rolls, corned beef dinner, etc.
Best place to get a coffee: This is a tie between Doktor Luke's (Sydney), their iced frappes are to die for….and The Dancing Goat (Margaree). Either place is really good for a latte or a straight-up cup of joe. Mmmm…I want a cappuccino right now. Honorable mentions go out to the Ugly Mug (Sydney River) and the little café in Arichat next to the gas station across from the Fish Market (can't remember its name, those directions will get you there).
Favorite bar/lounge: Governor's Pub (Sydney), The Groundswell (D'Escousse), Red Shoe Pub (Mabou).
Best music venue/place to see live music: Red Shoe Pub (Mabou), Frolic'n Folk Pub (Iona).
Favorite museum: Highland Village Museum (Iona) is pretty amazing-scenery is gorgeous, living history museum reflecting pioneer life of the Gaels who settled in the area. Also, check out the Miners Museum (Glace Bay). Go on a mine tour, heartwarming fellas with good humour and real life stories. Lastly, the Alexander Graham Bell Museum (Baddeck)-I learn something every time I go. Honorable mention to the North Highlands Community Museum (Cape North), which is all kinds of adorable.
Best sports venue(s): Highland Arts Theatre…theatre is a sport, right? ;) They have a series of plays every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through the summer (in the fall and winter seasons they offer regular programming in scheduled chunks).
Most popular local food: Snow crab (in season).
Best “locals-only spot”: Glencoe Mills Square Dance (Sundays in the summer). If you can take a workshop beforehand, that would be a good idea, but if not, they'll tell you what to do). Brook Village Square Dance (Mondays in the summer). West Mabou Square Dance (Saturdays all year long). Tune session at the Blue Mist Tavern in Bras d'Or (Thursday nights). In the winter, the curling club…have you tried curling? It's so fun!
To live like a local, you must have this experience: Go to a community breakfast. (There is a regular community breakfast schedule for most corners of the island. For example, there's one at St. George's Channel Hall the third Sunday of every month. D'Escousse's is the second Sunday of every month.)
Local/native fruit or dish to try: Smoked eel, fresh blueberries (by the handful or baked into a crumble, crisp, cobbler, or pie), chanterelle mushrooms, seafood chowder, snow crab, lobster. (There is an enormous bounty of local food options in season. Chanterelle Inn in North River, Telegraph House Inn in Baddeck, and the Bite House in Big Baddeck are three dining options that specialize in local cuisine.)
Most popular local drink: There are two craft breweries on the island now, Big Spruce (Nyanza) and Breton Brewing (Sydney River). Beer is a pretty popular local drink.
Movies/TV shows filmed in your city: The Bay Boy, Squanto, a Warrior's Tale, Margaret's Museum, Book of Negroes; there was another series being filmed this past winter (something Jason Momoa was cast in).
Best souvenirs to buy/goods to bring home: Local art. We have so many local artists and artisans, there are so many options to choose from. Buy some of their work! Pick up a local musician's CD, or a hand-woven shawl. Me, I'm a sucker for pottery. Maple syrup or local honey can be a nice treat too, depending on where your “home” is and how readily available those things are to you.
Best place to volunteer: With lots of charitable causes, fundraising events, music, and cultural festivals, there are a lot of options if you're interested in giving your time. SPCA (local animal shelter) is a great choice-go walk a dog. They need the exercise and more human interaction will help them become more adoptable. Meals on Wheels is another great choice, as you'd be making someone's day brighter (this organization delivers meals to seniors who live alone or are unable to get out and about). Any local community hall (of which there are hundreds around the island) would be yet another great choice. Many of these community halls are run by (largely aging) volunteers who offer community meals, host local festivals and concert series, and hold regular fundraising activities. These community halls are vital ingredients to keeping that palpable sense of community alive, which we are so fortunate to experience around here.
Biggest tourist trap/places to avoid and when: Honestly can't answer this. I wish more local people would give the “touristy” things a try because often they are heartwarming, enjoyable, educational things to do, and traveling around this beautiful island, even the most recognizable routes, is well worth the time.
Best beaches: This topic is very subjective, as we live on an island surrounded by the ocean with a giant salt water lake at the centre, thus there's no shortage of amazing beaches to visit, and everyone has their favourites for whatever reason. Here's my current top five:
Honestly, if you're a real beach bum, come to Cape Breton in the heart of the summer. There are too many to get to. You could hit a different beach for every sunny day and not get to them all. Seriously. (Can you tell I love to go to the beach?) Or, if you're a die-hard surfer, come any time of year. Winter surfing is a thing in the Maritimes. If you know what you're doing, get your wetsuit and booties and hood and catch the big swells. Eastern shores of the island seem should be hit up the most.
Best hidden gem: Mi-Carême Centre in Grand Etang. Gah! Just go, if I tell you too much I'll spoil it for you.
Best hiking trails: Cape Breton Highlands National Park has more than 20 trails to try. Among them I particularly love the Acadian Trail in Cheticamp and Coastal in Ingonish. Meat Cove Mountain (north of the park) is another spectacular hike, a really nice trek through the woods and a steady climb to panoramic views. There is a trail between Big Lorraine and Little Lorraine, just outside of Louisbourg (eastern shore of the island), and you hike through Wild Cove, Captain's Cove, Gooseberry Cove; the trail hugs the rugged granite coastline, and has the most dramatic scenery.
Best outdoor excursion: North River Kayak Tours. So nice! Have been on the tour a few times and thoroughly enjoyed it. There is another kayak tour outfit up in the highlands near Dingwall called Eagle North (haven't done that one yet, but love the scenery and area where they would traverse, and I have this on my own list for this summer to check out). There is also a new stand-up paddleboard outfit in Margaree Harbour. Gonna have to do that! AND, you can take surfing lessons in Point Michaud.
Best festival: Celtic Colours International Festival. (I'm a bit biased, I've been working for them for nine years, but honestly, there is really something magical about this festival!) This year there are 49 concerts and 280 community cultural events over nine days in October all over this beautiful island when the trees begin to wear their autumn vibrant colours. It's such a wonderful celebration of our island and the roots and branches of Celtic cultures that thrive here in Cape Breton and in other parts of the world. The best artists and culture-bearers from around the world take the stage and all sorts of serendipitous things just happen.
Favorite waterfalls:
Best smartphone app(s) for your community: The camera. Seriously.
Best travel tip: Fill your gas tank & go to the ATM. You'll find lots of long stretches of road between gas stations and some of the rural stations' closing times are early evening. Also, there are many events that happen in the local community halls: square dances, ceilidhs, community suppers or big country breakfasts that you might happen upon (or even plan to go to) and they're not often equipped to process the plastic. Most villages and towns will have both gas stations and ATMs so if you see one, that's your cue.
The post Island Insider: Cape Breton, Nova Scotia appeared first on Johnny Jet.
Lonely Planet just released two fun, pocket-sized travel books: “How to Pack for Any Trip” ($11.99) and “Just POINT!” ($8.63). Both are handy guides, especially for those who don't want to always have to reach for their phone apps for travel help.
Grab it: Grab “How to Pack for Any Trip” from $11.99 on Amazon here.
Grab it: Grab “Just POINT!” from $8.63 on Amazon here.
The post Travel Books of the Week: Lonely Planet Pocket-Sized Books appeared first on Johnny Jet.
In 2009, I talked about how naturally occurring hydrogen is being leaked from the earth's crust in Russia (see image at top), Europe and a few other places. I posited that one day this free hydrogen gas could one day be used to fuel cars.
In 2011, I asked the rhetorical question of whether or not natural underground hydrogen streams could also be used as fuel.
Now, less than a week ago, Duke University researchers have theorized that there are vast amounts of hydrogen gas underneath the ocean floors (see serpentinized rock specimen below).
According to Stacey L. Worman, “Our model, however, predicts that large quantities of H2 may also be forming within faster-spreading tectonic plates – regions that collectively underlie roughly half of the Mid-Ocean Ridge.”
This begs the question of whether or not this naturally occurring hydrogen gas is a renewable resource or not? Could it be that natural hydrogen is like petroleum trapped beneath the earth's surface as a finite resource? Or could it be that due to a natural process, yet to be discovered, that free hydrogen is being continually created inside of the earth's crust and is under pressure to come to the surface?
This also begs the question of whether or not we can drill or capture this clean energy carrier in nature and then use it for fuel cells (and other uses).
Since the discovery of pure hydrogen occurring naturally inside of the earth is very new, there are more questions than answers.
Perhaps the most prophetic answer comes from Professor Friedemann Freund from the NASA Ames Research Centre, in California, when he stated back in 2002, “In the top 20km of the Earth's crust, the conditions are right to produce a nearly inexhaustible supply of hydrogen.”
My hope is that one day soon this passage about Hydrogen Fuel on Wikipedia will need to be changed, “Because pure hydrogen does not occur naturally on Earth in large quantities, it takes a substantial amount of energy in its industrial production.” This factual change will apply to textbooks, journals, websites and other media as well.
Update: Many thanks to @NH2E for alerting me to the 1st hydrogen producing well in the world in Mali, Africa http://nh2e.com/news/38-first-h2-well and http://africa-me.com/hydrogen-power-in-mali/ – excellent!
References
https://nicholas.duke.edu/about/news/oceans-may-be-large-overlooked-source-hydrogen-gas
http://uahe.net.ua/articles/142-natural-hydrogen-gas-is-seeping-from-within-the-earth.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen_fuel
https://www.facebook.com/Hydridic-Earth-the-source-of-Natural-Hydrogen-163793253641793/
https://twitter.com/hydridic_earth
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/1951338/profile
Want to know how to travel in style, just like the pros? We check in with frequent fliers to find out how often they fly, their favorite destinations and what they never leave home without.
Barbara Weibel
Name: Barbara Weibel
Occupation: Travel writer/photographer
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Residence: Traveling the world full time with no home base
Website: holeinthedonut.com
Twitter: @holeinthedonut
Facebook: Hole In The Donut Travels
Instagram: holeinthedonut
Pinterest: Hole in the Donut Cultural Travel
Google+: Barbara Weibel
YouTube: Barbara Weibel
Short bio: After years of working 70-80 hours per week at jobs that paid the bills but brought no joy, a serious illness made Barbara Weibel realize she felt like the proverbial “hole in the donut”-solid on the outside but empty on the inside. In 2007, at the age of 54, Weibel walked away from her successful career, sold or gave away most of her material possessions, and began traveling around the world in pursuit of her true passions: travel, photography and writing. Initially, her intention was to travel for six months, but by the time that first trip ended Weibel realized she could never return to a “normal life.” These days she bounces from country to country, writing stories about her adventures on her blog, Hole In The Donut Cultural Travel.
How often do you fly? As little as possible, but since I'm a full-time digital nomad, I have to fly occasionally. I'd guess I fly 10-12 times a year, but once on a chosen continent I opt mostly for trains, buses, boats, and share cars.
How many countries have you been to? 70
How many continents have you been to? 6-Alas, Antarctica has eluded me, mostly because I suffer badly from seasickness.
Earliest travel memory: Wisconsin Dells with my family, perhaps at the age of nine or 10.
Favorite American city: Don't have one.
Favorite international city: Oh, so many to choose from. If I have to pick one, maybe Bangkok…no, Split, Croatia…no, Pokhara, Nepal…aagh!
Least favorite country: Shanghai, China.
I have no desire to go to: Mars-everything but space travel is on the table.
Friendliest people in the world: New Zealand.
Country with the meanest immigration officers: USA.
Favorite World Heritage Site: Machu Picchu, Peru.
Favorite airline: Still looking for a good one.
Favorite aircraft type: They're all the same to me-bad food and uncomfortable seats.
Aisle or window: Aisle.
Favorite airport lounge: Don't use them.
Favorite U.S. airport: Maybe Chicago O'Hare, but they're all pretty lame.
Favorite international airport: Changi Airport in Singapore.
Favorite hotel: If I were rich, I'd stay in Shangri-La properties wherever they are.
Favorite cruise line: Viking River Cruises-they do a spectacular job.
Favorite travel credit card: Master Card.
Favorite island: So far, Bali.
Favorite beach: Tulum, Mexico.
Favorite fancy restaurant: Tiesto's in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Favorite fruit: Mango.
Favorite food: Thai curry.
Least favorite food: Meat-I'm a vegetarian.
Drink of choice (in the air and on the ground): Don't drink alcohol, so let's say coffee on the ground and water in the air.
Favorite travel book(s): Anything written by Pico Iyer.
Right now I am reading: “A World Undone: The Story of the Great War 1914 to 1918″ by G.J. Meyer.
Top 3 favorite travel newsletters/magazines/blogs: Heather on her Travels, My Itchy Travel Feet, Ottsworld-they're all personal friends as well!
5 things you bring on a plane: Laptop, iPhone, headphones, backup battery for iPhone, food.
What do you always seem to forget? Everything I own is in a 22″ carry-on suitcase, a small backpack for my equipment, and my purse-it's literally impossible for me to forget anything.
What do you like least about travel? Travel planning.
What do you want your loved one to buy you from an airport Duty Free store? Nothing-I don't need or want any more “stuff” in my life.
Favorite travel app(s): Maps.me, Day One Journal.
Most embarrassing travel moment: Don't have one; apparently nothing embarrasses me.
I'm embarrassed I haven't been to: Yellowstone National Park.
Worst travel moment: Being robbed in the middle of the night while camping in Hawaii.
What's your dream destination? Tibet.
Best travel tip: Don't be afraid to ask strangers for help.
The post Travel Style: Barbara Weibel appeared first on Johnny Jet.
