Places To Visit Archives - The Canny Traveler

Historic Places I Love: Callanish Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis

The Canny Traveler — Sun, 12 Jul 2020 03:23:35 +0000

The cultural and historical past has always fascinated me and there are few places more enticing than Callanish Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis. This magical, mysterious place evokes memories of peoples long lost in the mists of time. What’s special about it? Everyone knows about Stonehenge, but the Neolithic Standing Stones at Callanish offers insights into the spiritual and social activities of the peoples who inhabited these beautiful but harsh Outer Hebridean islands. Why here? What was their purpose? We can only speculate for the most part but when you wander around it becomes obvious that this must have been a special place even back then. How to get there My starting point was the ferry terminal in Tarbert but your route depends on whether you arrived here or in Stornoway. Things to see & do nearby Dun Carloway Broch I definitely recommend a trip to Carloway Broch, one of the oldest in Scotland. This Iron Age structure is remarkably well preserved and offers yet more insights about how people once lived on the islands. Gearrannan Blackhouse Village To see how islanders lived up in to the 20th century, a trip to the blackhouses is definitely something I recommend. Carefully and lovingly restored the village also offers overnight accommodation (but book very early to make sure you get the place you want). It must have been a harsh but somehow rewarding life living here. Norse Mill & Kiln For another fascinating insight into the history of the islands, visit the Norse Mill & Kiln which was used up until the 1930s. Useful resources https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/calanais-standing-stones/ https://www.calmac.co.uk/ Final words The Outer Hebrides contain numerous places worth visiting but I had always wanted to go to Lewis & Harris and especially the Standing Stones at Callanish; I was not disappointed in the least. If you liked rugged landscapes, natural beauty, history and a deep sense of tradition then a trip here will be well worth it. And be prepared for all kinds of weather. We were there in July and it was cold and wet! Not that it stopped us having a wonderful time! If you enjoyed this article, see our picks for the best things to see and do in Scotland.

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Cities I Love: San Francisco, California

The Canny Traveler — Wed, 06 May 2020 13:14:24 +0000

I arrived in California from Tijuana in October 1987 after spending about 3 weeks in Mexico. A female friend offered to let me stay at her place and together we explored northern California. Even though I only spent 2 days in San Francisco my impressions were strong enough that I often dreamed of going back and even living there. For me, San Francisco was almost like coming home. The Victorian houses, steep streets, parks, and quaint bookstores reminded me of places I had been in Europe. To this day I can remember wandering around and feeling this must be a wonderful place to live, to have so much right on your doorstep. What’s special about it? I loved the Victorian homes, I was enchanted by the Golden Gate Bridge and Presidio, and I really loved the street cars. It felt like stepping back in time to a better world. Call me a romantic but I really like things like that even if it is more of a touristy thing to do. I usually walk as my preferred means of getting around and I spent hours just wandering around areas like Fisherman’s Wharf, Russian Hill, and of course walking down the world-famous Lombard Street. Precious memories of a special time and special place! How to get there San Francisco is well served with many transportation options and I leave it up to each person to decide on the best means of getting to the city. Things to see & do nearby Chinatown A must-see for any visitor to the city, Chinatown can be easily reached from Union Square. San Francisco Cable Car Museum Definitely worth a visit for the history and importance to the development of the city. City Lights Booksellers & Publishers No visit would be complete without peeking in at the famous independent bookstore and publishing house. Wind up your tour with a stop to people watch and enjoy some refreshments at Fisherman’s Wharf. Useful resources https://www.inside-guide-to-san-francisco-tourism.com/chinatown-san-francisco.html http://www.cablecarmuseum.org/ https://www.visitcalifornia.com/attraction/golden-gate-bridge Final words Sadly, I never made it back to San Francisco but who knows, maybe one day… Whatever time of year you decide to go make sure to plan ahead, pack appropriate clothing, and travel safely at all times.

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Villages I Love: Malham, Yorkshire

The Canny Traveler — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 04:17:21 +0000

I fell in love with the Yorkshire Dales the first time I saw them back in the 1980s. Rolling hills, limestone caves and crags, rivers, dry-stone walls and sheep, lots of sheep. There are many beautiful places in Yorkshire but Malham always captured my heart and still does to this day. What’s special about it? Nestled in the upper part of the valley of the River Aire and surrounded by limestone pavements, Malham represents for me a typical Yorkshire Dales village. Despite being a very popular destination especially with walkers, Malham has retained its charm and quiet village life identity. Wander around and enjoy country cottages, little gardens bursting with color, and views to the surrounding countryside. Because so many tourists like to come here it can be pretty busy at times so plan ahead if you want to stay in the area and be aware that parking can be problematic. How to get there Depending on your starting point, Malham is easily accessible from most sides by car. Things to see & do nearby Malham Cove About 1 mile from the village, Malham Cove is not only famed for its natural beauty but is a well-known and very popular climbing spot. Depending on the time of year and weather you will almost certainly see climbers on the steep and overhanging cliffs. Malham Tarn Feeling adventurous and want to enjoy some stunning views? Then take a walk up to the limestone pavements at the top of the cove and continue on to where you can see the glacial lake known as Malham Tarn. Janet’s Foss Another natural wonder to behold and well worth the effort. Accessible via a woodland path, the waterfall carries Gordale Beck into a deep pool. Mysterious and magical, add this to your list of things to do. Useful resources https://www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ https://www.malhamdale.com/janetsfoss/ https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/malham-cove Final words Referred to as God’s own country by its inhabitants, Yorkshire abounds with wonderful places to visit. Personally, I love the Dales and could happily spend days and weeks there. Make sure to keep this beautiful county clean no matter what time of year you go there and above all enjoy this amazing part of England.

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Streets I Love: Ann Street, Edinburgh

The Canny Traveler — Sat, 25 Apr 2020 15:37:00 +0000

We all have our own special streets we love. They could be anywhere, during any time period and we would still feel fascinated, intrigued, or just experience those moments of inner tranquility we all need to help us escape the hustle and bustle of our modern lives. Situated in Edinburgh’s New Town, Ann Street is one of those places. What makes it special? This is purely subjective of course, but Ann Street is not your typical New Town street. While most streets were built with space in mind, large and sweeping, Ann Street is relatively narrow. The fact that it is now one-way traffic only makes it even more quiet and cosy. I love the Georgian buildings and small front gardens bursting with flowers and the smell of roses. Originally designed by the Scottish painter Sir Henry Raeburn together with architect James Milne, it was one of the first streets in the New Town to feature private front gardens. In some ways, Ann Street is a microcosm of New Town living in Edinburgh. Range Rovers and Jaguars line the cobbled street and apartment prices are rarely under £1 million. The stuff of dreams, for some… How to get there My favorite way is to walk up Dean Terrace, turn right and follow the street to its exit at Dean Park Crescent. From there you have a few choices as to where to head next. Things to see & do nearby Stockbridge: I grew up near Stockbridge and it will always hold a special place for me as one of my favorite areas in the city. Artisan shops and cafes line the main street and it has become a place to be seen, Dean Village: with pretty little houses and gardens and walks along the river, what could be better than a visit to this lovely old part of the city? Royal Botanic Gardens: spaciously laid-out and impeccably designed gardens make the Botanics a must-see for anyone visiting Edinburgh. A newly designed gallery and café complement this wonderful jewel. Useful resources https://www.scotsman.com/arts-and-culture/golden-street-royal-seal-approval-2463329 https://www.rbge.org.uk/ https://ewh.org.uk/world-heritage-sites/dean-village/ https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/scotland/articles/the-top-10-things-to-do-and-see-in-stockbridge-edinburgh/ Final words Ann Street stands out for me as one of the finest streets you can find. Whatever your travel plans, make sure to include it if possible.

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What to Do in Morocco: Top Picks

The Canny Traveler — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 04:56:42 +0000

Beautifully chaotic, colorful, and exotic, Morocco is a country full of life. Nestled in North Africa between the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, this country will take you on an exciting adventure as you experience Moroccan culture and scenery. Planning a trip? Here’s what to do in Morocco and the best experiences to have. Quick Tips: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s advised to dress more modestly to avoid any unwanted attention. Also, Moroccan Arabic and French are widely spoken throughout the country, so any French knowledge will likely come in handy! Get lost in Marrakech’s chaotic souks Marrakech might not be the capital, but it’s certainly the most visited and liveliest of Moroccan cities. So, spend some days getting lost in the souks of Marrakech, shopping for unique items, and bartering for the best price. It’s a fun and cultural experience to have in Morocco, and one that will leave you with some pretty sweet souvenirs like silver lanterns, unique carpets, and fresh spices. Go bathe at a hammam Hammams are embedded in Moroccan culture. For locals it’s more than just a bath, it’s a social gathering that intends to purify both the body and the mind. It’s also one of the best things to experience on a trip to Morocco. Whether you want to visit a public or private bath, hammams are dispersed around Morocco. Visit spas or hotels for a more luxurious experience. You’ll enjoy a full body cleanse, scrubbing, and likely a massage to top it off. Take a trip into the desert A trip to the desert is such a special experience to have in Morocco. Riding a camel past perfectly crafted sand dunes and watching the stars twinkle at night, free from light pollution, complete with a vibrant morning sunrise is reason enough to visit Morocco. Visit the Merzouga Desert (Erg Chebbi) for beautiful sand dunes in Morocco. Drink mint tea and watch the world go by Imagine sipping a fresh cup of mint tea in a cozy cafe by Marrakech’s bustling Jemaa el-Fna square as you enjoy the magical chaos around you. Or, on the other hand, you can enjoy a glorious mint tea as you watch Atlantic waves crash along the sand at a white-washed cafe in Essaouira. Both are possible in Morocco and both are equally inspirational and wonderful in their own ways. Regardless of your scenery of choice, drinking mint tea is essential in Morocco. Locals even refer to it as whiskey! See the Fes tanneries The imperial city of Morocco, Fes is wonderfully full of history and charm. Visiting a local leather tannery is one of the best experiences to have in Fes as it’s one of the city’s biggest industries and deeply rooted in the city’s culture. The best and oldest (built in the 11th century) is the Chouara Tannery located in the oldest medina quarter of the city. Wander the blue city of Chefchaouen Famous for its blue-washed walls, buildings, and even many of its streets, Chefchaouen is one of the Morocco’s most beautiful villages. It’s located in the north of Morocco and is absolutely worth the journey. Enjoy exploring this unique village full of flowers, plants, and all things blue. A visit here is definitely on of our top recommendations for what to do in Morocco. Enjoy Moroccan food You can’t come to Morocco without diving into the culinary scene. Plus, Moroccan food is exceptional. From breakfast to dinner, Moroccans know how to make a dish. Try tajine, consisting of various varieties of vegetables, meat, and spices slow-cooked in a classic tajine clay dish. For desserts, try Moroccan almond baklava and delicious stuffed dates. Visit Aït Benhaddou As a day trip from Marrakech or a pit stop on your way to the sand dunes, Aït Benhaddou is a uniquely spectacular village made entirely out of earthen clay. Most families have since moved away to more modern villages, but four families still remain and keep this village looking beautiful. Go surfing in Essaouira Popular for its great waves and notable guests like Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens (apparently, they liked to come here for inspiration), Essaouira is a beautiful fishing town on the Atlantic Coast. Here you can enjoy this town’s relaxed pace as you surf and befriend visitors from around the world. Soak up views of the Atlas Mountains Bring a sweater and take a trip up to the scenic Atlas Mountains and marvel at the views of Morocco’s countryside. There’s also valleys, waterfalls, and Berber villages in this area so there’s plenty of things to see and do. You can also enjoy hikes around the Ourika Valley with picturesque views of the Atlas Mountains and its surrounding tiny villages, making for a great day trip from Marrakech. Final Words We live in a beautiful and magical world full of many surprises. We hope you’ve enjoyed our taste of some of the best things on offer in our guide of what to do in Morocco. Where will you go this year?

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Best Places To Visit In Spain Off The Beaten Path

The Canny Traveler — Sun, 19 Jan 2020 13:52:08 +0000

Every year tourists flock to exciting cities like Barcelona and Madrid or seek solace on the beaches of Ibiza and other seaside resorts. Although these are arguably fantastic destinations in Spain, there’s a lot more this wonderful country has to offer its visitors. So, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore something different, join us as we take you on a tour of the best places to visit in Spain off the beaten path. Costa Brava Translating to the “Rugged Coast” Costa Brava is just north of Barcelona in Catalonia and offers some of the most gorgeous seaside towns, turquoise waters, as well as excellent kayaking and day hikes. Costa Brava offers something for every visitor from its boutique hotels, spas, beaches, and historical towns. Head to Tossa de Mar and explore its medieval streets and ancient wall. Then, venture further north to Palamós for nature-filled hikes and sea views. Take a dip in the quiet, golden beach of Platja de Castell to complete the experience. Peñíscola Not too far from Valencia, you´ll find the medieval walled seaside town of Peñíscola perched on a hilltop. You could spend hours wandering the winding cobblestone streets, taking in its white-washed simple architecture, and discovering the best sea views. Also, here you’ll find charming locals and excellent seafood. It’s truly one of the best places to visit in Spain off the beaten path. Here are some things to do in Peñíscola to help inspire your next trip. Pueblo de Sanabria Close to the northeast Portuguese border, Pueblo de Sanabria is one of the oldest settlements in Spain. It’s also one of the most beautiful with its quaint stoned buildings, inviting florals and vined walls, combining with a peaceful, romantic ambiance. Wander this village and stand in awe of its 15th century castle Playa de las Catedrales If you’re looking for an interesting beach to visit in Spain, Playa de las Catedrales in Galicia is a perfect hidden gem. Its mesmerizing rock formations and hidden coves will invite you and its coastal scenery will make you want to stay. Plus, you’ll have access to exploring nearby large beaches where you can relax, tan, or have a picnic in peace away from crowds of tourists. Pedraza Transport yourself back in time when you visit Pedraza. It’s one of the best kept secrets in Spain with its ancient architecture, plant-filled balconies, and old-world charm. Find a spot in Plaza Mayor where you can sit and admire the scenery or people watch for hours on end. Vilafranca del Penedès Penedès is Catalonia’s largest wine producing area, but it’s still one of the best places to visit in Spain off the beaten path. Just 45 minutes outside of Barcelona, VilafrancadelPenedès is a beautiful, quiet town perfect for wine lovers. From dry whites to sweeter reds, you’ll fall in love with the charm of this wine town in Spain. Also, check out nearby Sant Sadurní d’Anoia and experience the birthplace of cava for an extra treat. Parque Nacional de Doñana If nature is what you crave on your next trip to Spain, Parque Nacional de Doñana in Andalusia is where you need to be. Located between Huelva and Seville, this park is full of natural wonder. It offers a combination of wetlands, pine forests, wildlife rivers and trails. It’s the perfect spot for any nature lovers looking to explore Spain. Final words Spain is a country full of charm offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for great beaches, medieval towns, or phenomenal wine, our list of the best places to visit in Spain off the beaten path will have you covered. As an added bonus check out these other amazing places to visit in Spain.

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