The Perfect Taste of Tasmania in Hobart

A little while ago I brought you along on my journey around Tasmania and I promised you more from this epic Australian state. Well I’ve kept my promise and want to share with you everything there is to know about travelling around Tasmania’s capital, Hobart. Not only is Hobart itself a great little city to explore, but also, its central location along the Southern Coast offers access to some of the world’s most beautiful places, and trust me, I’m not exaggerating.
Stay
The Henry Jones Art Hotel: This boutique hotel is an attraction in itself. Originally a successful 19^th century jam factory overlooking Hobart’s harbour, it was transformed into a tasteful, modern space, which blends world-renowned art with luxury accommodation, definitely worth the splurge.
See and Do in Hobart
Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
MONA and Hobart have become synonymous since MONA first opened in 2011. It is the largest private museum in Australia and houses the largest private art collection in the Southern Hemisphere, courtesy of David Walsh. From antiquities to modern art and everything in between, your senses will overload as you creep through the labyrinth of galleries buried in the cliffs of Berriedale peninsula. I’ll try not to get too museum geeky, but this progressive museum exposes us to what museums will be like in the future. An experience to say the least, even if art isn’t your thing. The easiest way to get here is by the MR-1 Fast Ferry from the Hobart’s harbour, a 30-minute journey for $20 return. Salamanca Market
This is one of Australia’s most famous markets. Every Saturday 300 stalls line the historic, Salamanca Place, overlooking Hobart’s harbour. Here you’ll find mostly local artisans and antiques, along with a few food and produce vendors. It’s definitely worth planning your schedule around this market. Cascade Brewery
Take a short drive to South Hobart and tour around Australia’s oldest brewery, founded in 1831 on the banks of the Hobart Rivulet. Not only is the beer good and the history rich, but the bar itself, nestled under Mount Wellington, is a beautiful setting for patio drinks on a sunny day.
See and Do Surrounding Hobart
I think this is the best aspect of Hobart, natural beauty and rich history at your fingertips, all within an hour drive of Hobart. Richmond
A 30-minute drive northeast of Hobart, you’ll find this historic town full of charm on the Coal River. Grab an Australia meat pie from the famous Richmond Bakery and wander down to the banks of the Coal River to see Australia’s oldest bridge still in use. It’s hard to take a bad photo in this town when antique shops, museums, and tea rooms occupy 19^th century buildings. And on the way, visit one of my favourite Australian vineyards, Frogmore Creek Winery, to try their premium selection of Coal Valley wines. Bruny Island
Located within an hour drive southwest of Hobart, load your car on the ferry from Kettering, to explore this majestic island for the day. This island has a bit of everything, gourmet food, beautiful beaches, and epic bushwalks. It’s fun to drive around, explore the rugged coast, and visit the cheeseries along the way. Speaking of cheese, take a 10 minute detour past Kettering to try my favourite cheese from the source at Grandvewe Cheeses. Specialising in sheep cheese products, you can’t go wrong with their award-winning Sapphire Blue. Port Arthur
Like I said in this post, there are a lot of spots worth checking out along the way, but the historic site of Port Arthur is a great day trip to familiarise yourself with Australia’s convict history.
Eat
Surprisingly, this small city at the edge of Australia is a foodie’s dream come true, as most produce is locally grown and restaurants pioneer truly unique dining experiences.
Pilgrim Coffee: The best coffee in Hobart.
Pollen Tea Room: If coffee isn’t your thing (like me), this cute spot serves it’s own loose-leaf teas and gourmet hot chocolates.
Machine Laundry Café: Yes it’s a café inside a laundromat, but it’s not what you think, serving some of the best breakfasts in town amongst retro furnishings.
Pigeon Hole: Another great breakfast spot, with an ever-changing menu, using seasonal, local produce.
Daci & Daci Bakers: A great bakery for breakfast or lunch with Ottolenghi vibes.
Mures Lower Deck: While in Tasmania you must try fresh, local seafood, so head here to get classic seafood meals.
Sweet Envy: The best place to find sweets of any kind, so much so they’ve released their own cookbook.
Jam Jar Lounge Café: Located atop Battery Point, this lounge is inviting with a mix of Japanese tapas and Australian wine in a jazz setting.
Small-fry: This is my sister in law’s favourite restaurant, as they’ve redefined the dining experience, serving unique food in an intimate setting with the chef and barista creating in front of you and a handful of other people. They’re famous for their doughnuts, along with providing an immersive dining experience. For example, some dishes are served with an iPad full of classic cartoons for you to scan through while you enjoy your meal.
Ristorante Da Angelo: For the best Italian in town head to this classic eatery.
Capital: The new kid on the block, which is quickly becoming the go-to restaurant in Hobart.  The space was once Marti Zucco’s restaurant, one of the first restaurants in North Hobart. It has since been converted into an industrial style with a lot of non traditional Italian dishes, including three cheese beet root gnocchi, yum.
Ethos Eat Drink: Like everything else in Hobart, this restaurant is full of history, in the converted stable yard and carriageway of the Old Hobart Hotel. Come here for the modern set menu and wine pairing from Sommelier, Alice Chugg.
Garagistes: Ranked as the best fine dining restaurant in Hobart, this unique, industrial style restaurant serves modern Japanese, using local wagyu beef among other delicacies.
Preachers: A cute little pub with outdoor seating on picnic tables, bean bags, or a bus.
Go
Like I said in this post, it’s easy to fly to Hobart from Australia’s hubs. On arrival, I suggest renting a car to easily access Hobart’s beautiful surrounds. But once in Hobart itself, most places are easy to walk to, especially around the harbour, Salamanca, and Battery Point.
Capital photo by Graziano Di Martino and for source click on photo/link.

 

Go To – Tote

My travel mantra combines versatility with style and quality. So when it comes to lugging around extra belongings, I choose my trusted Envirosax tote. First of all, it’s lightweight, as I prefer this version to the heavier canvas bag alternative. It is also compact, rolling up into a tiny burrito. And the cute pattern usually matches with most outfits. I use this tote for anything from a beach bag to a shopping bag, it’s even assisted me when my luggage was a bit overweight. Bonus, it’s machine washable and dries quickly. Is there anything this tote can’t do?! Well it’s also affordable and durable, with over five years of use it still looks new!

6 Books/Movies to Stir your Inner Traveller

Hello, I’m Meghan and I’m a non-fiction snob. Yes, I’ve never read Harry Potter or 50 Shades of Grey, but give me Jon Krakauer and Bill Bryson any day (by the way, that rhymes). The other day I watched the movie, Tracks, for the first time, and was incredibly uplifted by what would seem like a pointless story. It might not be well know to any of you living outside of Australia, as it’s based on the true story of a young woman who walked from Alice Springs (middle of Australia) to the Indian Ocean (west coast of Australia), basically she walked through the Australian desert for over six months and no one knew why! Anyway, it got me thinking about the stories that inspired me, along with my family and friends, over the years to get out and explore the world around us. So I’ve rounded up my favourites for you, but I would love to hear your favourites too (that rhymes as well, what’s with me today)!
Tracks by Robyn Davidson
I have yet to read the book written by Robyn Davidson herself, after the article she wrote for National Geographic about her trek garnered overwhelming interest. But after enjoying the movie so much (remember what I said about Australian film), I’ll have to pick up that book soon. When the movie was released last year, I was reluctant to see it, as, like I said earlier, the story seemed pointless. However, a fellow traveller in Margaret River encouraged me to watch the movie and read the book, telling me how much it inspired her, as an independent woman. Now the story doesn’t seem so pointless, leaving you in awe, cringing, on the edge of seat, as you follow this young woman, her dog, and four camels through the trials of the Australian Outback.
The Golden Spruce by John Vaillant
So far this is my favourite book to date, and I must thank my good friend, Mark, for recommending his favourite book to me many years ago. If you have ever spent time in the Pacific Northwest, you would have encountered the majestic nature all around you. This book encapsulates that, along with the spirituality of these old lands. The true story documents Grant Hadwin’s senseless protest, as he cut down the only giant GOLDEN spruce on earth. Trust me, you’ll be hooked after the first page and maybe it will be made into a movie soon.
Wild by Cheryl Strayed
I have yet to read the book, which I hope to do soon before I see the movie, but my good friend, Kristen, recommended this book to me after it inspired her to start multi day treks. The story seems similar to Tracks, as both these women experienced the tragic loss of their mothers, and strived to challenge themselves in ways that would seem impossible. If this doesn’t get your sense of adventure going, I don’t know what would!
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
A classic, for me at least! Everyday this book weaves its way into my life, whether I’m reminded of my favourite quotes written on my notebooks/desktop/phone or Eddie Vedder’s wonderful rendition playing in the background. I read Into the Wild after a tragic time, as it was just what I needed to get out of my year of grief and hit the road backpacking around the Middle East and Europe. Though I know some people who don’t find this story as inspiring as I do, I still think it’s worth reading, and even watching the movie, which is a good adaptation of the book (a rarity). It will get you thinking about what adventure and exploration really means, not to Christopher McCandless, but to you.
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
I know, I know, the whole Eat, Pray, Love thing has been overdone. But if you’re looking for an easy, fun read, this is it. I still refer to a few favourite quotes of mine, which means this story is still relevant to us women trying to find our way. Though, unlike the other books mentioned that have been adapted into critically acclaimed movies, this movie is definitely a miss.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
This is the one fiction book I love, not because it happens to be my boyfriend and my father’s favourite book (purely coincidence). But I love how this book takes adventure to the extreme, yet still has a sense of reality about it. It’s the funnest book I’ve read and definitely stirred my inner traveller. Though this movie is a miss too.

For photo sources click on photos/links.

Globetrotting Friends: British Virgin Islands

It’s time for the second installment of the series Globetrotting Friends. Well, my next globetrotter is a bit more than a friend, she’s my aunt! Sharon inspired me to live abroad from a young age, as she took off for the Caribbean, living on the small islands of Aruba and Tortola, to name a few, and never returned! No wonder, when the turquoise ocean and sea breeze are on your doorstep. And like any good friend abroad, it’s been great to visit her. Sharon currently lives in Tortola in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and manages the beautiful artisan shop, Aragorn’s Studio, in Trellis Bay. She was kind enough to offer her recommendations for visiting this hidden gem of the Caribbean. Take it away Sharon!
If you are planning a trip to the Caribbean, definitely set aside a week or two or three for the BVI.  The BVI is located just east of Puerto Rico and is surrounded by gorgeous blue water. The 50 islands of the BVI make up part of the Virgin Islands archipelago; the remaining islands constitute the US Virgin Islands and the Spanish Virgin Islands, also American, but they are governed by the US territory of Puerto Rico. All these islands share similar geographic features, but each country has developed distinct differences in terms of tourism, culture, and economy.

The BVI has a total population of just under 30,000 people, with the majority living on the main island of Tortola.  Virgin Gorda, is the second most populated island, where about 5,000 people live, followed by few hundred people on Anegada, and another few hundred live on the island of Jost Van Dyke. A few islands are privately owned and house either a single residence, or have very exclusive hotels.  Richard Branson’s Necker Island falls into this category!  There are also dozens of completely uninhabited islands that provide incredible backdrops for afternoon beach picnics.
The BVI is known as the sailing vacation capital of the world.  Consistently warm trade winds provide all the fuel that is needed for the 2-4 hour sails between islands.  On a 7 day charter, it is easy to say you’ve visited at least a dozen different islands and you won’t feel rushed doing it.  Costs of boat charters vary tremendously depending on the level of luxury and service you want; and, if you can captain a boat yourself, or whether you need to hire a captain.  There are lots of different charter companies in Tortola that will be able to put together the right type of package for you. Use your internet search engine to get a list of charter yacht companies operating in the BVI.  I believe all of them to be reputable, and it is just a matter of finding the right fit.

Although sailing around the islands is the most popular type of tourism here, a land-based vacation is also a great way to experience the BVI.  There are no big hotels or chain restaurants in the BVI, but there are hundreds of vacation villas available to rent.  VRBO provides some great options, as well as the BVI’s official website.  If you are land based for a few weeks, take part of that time to enjoy some day trips to Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada on a regular ferry services.  And, to get to the uninhibited islands, head out on one of the day sail boats, such are Kuralu or White Squall II.
If you have very limited funds don’t dismiss a visit the BVI, as it still is possible to enjoy these islands on tight budget.  Basic camping is available at Brewer’s Bay, a gorgeous beach in Tortola. And, if you are interested in participating as a “WWOOFER” (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), there is an organic farm in Tortola, Good Moon Farm that provides very basic accommodation in exchange for four hours work a day on the Farm.

Interested in scuba diving? There are lots of great spots to visit in the BVI, including the wreck of the Rhone, a British mail steamer that sank in these waters in 1867.  If you would like to work on your dive certification while in the BVI, I highly recommend the company, Blue Water Divers.
And, if you aren’t interested in diving, there is still so much to see snorkelling.  I have frequently spotted turtles, stingrays, squid, lobster, parrot fish, angelfish… the list goes on and on.  Other water sports, such as SUP boards, kite surfing, wind surfing and kayaking, are also popular.  If you need a break from the sea, there are a few great hiking trails in the national park, Sage Mountain.  And, a recently opened zip line is getting great reviews.

But, the BVI is not just about experiencing the gorgeous water, amazing sailing, and fun water sports.  It is also a great party spot!  Definitely worth spending a day and evening in Cane Garden Bay to hear some music at Quito’s or Myett’s.  And, the Full Moon parties at Trellis Bay are legendary.  The well-established BVI Spring Regatta takes place every April, offering some fantastic racing during the day, and great parties in the evening. New festivals that are gaining popularity are the BVI Wine and Food Festival that takes place in the beginning November and the Anegada Lobster Festival that takes place at the end of November.  Another hugely popular event is the Poker Run held at the end of May each year.
For a special evening out, dinner at Brandywine Restaurant is a must.  And if you are interested in trivia, Friday Night Quiz at the Tamarind Club is good fun with good food; the winning team receives a certificate for Sunday brunch.  On Tuesday evenings the restaurant to check out is the small, local place, Dovelove, in the village of Long Look. It is a relaxed, roof top bar/restaurant owned by a BV Islander, Lash, and his Canadian wife, Lynne.  A weekly entertainment magazine, Limin’ Times, lists weekly events, music, and restaurant specials happening throughout all the BVI.
A few more important notes:
There are no direct flights from North America to the BVI.  To fly into Tortola, you have to take an island hopper (LIAT, Cape Air, Seaborne) from San Juan, which takes about 25 minutes. It is also possible to fly from the USA, Canada, France, and Holland to St Maarten, and island hop from there, taking about 30 minutes. Or, if you are flying from the UK, there are direct flights with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic to Antigua or Barbados, and then island hop from there.  If there are more than four people traveling, it might be worth hiring a private plane charter with Fly BVI or Island Birds.  Note, the airport code for the BVI is EIS; the airport is actually on Beef Island which is joined by a 100 metre bridge to the East End of Tortola.

Flying into Tortola can be expensive.  Sometimes it can be a few hundred dollars cheaper to fly into St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, and then take a one hour ferry ride to Tortola.  The cost of a return ferry ticket, with departure taxes, is $70 and the ferries run every 2-3 hours from 7am to 5pm.
The US dollar is the official currency, ATM machines are available in Road Town, and credit cards are taken in most establishments, although some small establishments will only accept cash.

Driving is on the left, but in American made cars.  Passengers can feel very uncomfortable as it feels as though opposing traffic is coming right at them.  Street signs are few and far between, and the roads are pothole ridden and narrow, an experience to say the least.
There is so much more I would like to share about the BVI, so stay tuned for part two!!
Thank you so much Sharon, we can’t wait to see more tips from you!

Some photos courtesy of Sharon Tait.

Travel First Aid Essentials

I’m starting the year off with one nerdy post! I get called nerdy every time the people I travel with get a blister, cold, headache, whatever ailment it might be, and I pull out my trusty first aid kit to the rescue. Funny how I use my first aid kit the least, as it usually ends up helping someone else. Who’s the nerd now?! Putting crude comments aside, a well-stocked first aid kit should be packed in every traveller’s luggage. My first aid kit has come a long way since I started travelling, from a few pain relief pills in my toiletry bag to what it is today, a work of art. Some of these comments might be aimed at my boyfriend, a seasoned traveller as well, who insists his first aid kit is better than mine… There’s someone out there for everyone.

But seriously, the following will explain a few tricks of the trade and what to stock in your first aid kit while on the road.

1. Your Local Pharmacy
   Stock up on supplies from you local pharmacy’s shelves. You can get by without prescriptions for most ailments. Most importantly, stick to what you are accustomed to, to avoid unexpected reactions.
2. Space Saving
   You’ll notice that I removed everything from its original packaging and put it in little baggies with the labels. I bought the baggies at my local craft store and I carefully removed labels from their bottles or cut labels from their boxes. Not only does it save on space, but by keeping the medication with their labels, I know expiry dates and ingredients, as well as avoiding critical mix-ups.
3. Personalise
   My first aid kit is stocked with what cures common ailments for myself as well as the basics, from antibiotics for those not so pleasant, common infections (ahem, ladies) to medications to ease my common tummy pains. If you take regular medication at home (including birth control) stock up on that as well.
4. Talk to your Travel Doctor
   Before visiting developing countries, talk to your travel doctor about what health risks you might encounter while abroad and some medications you might need. Along with crucial vaccines, your doctor will prescribe at least one strong antibiotic for emergencies. Fill this prescription before you leave and keep it safe in your first aid kit, it might be life saving.
5. Paperwork
   Some borders are tricky, so it’s important to be prepared if questioned. Ensure you have copies of all of your prescriptions either with your first aid kit or with your passport.

What to Stock
Pain

• Ibuprofen (Advil)
• Paracetamol (Tylenol)
• Strong pain reliever (Aleve)

Cold and Flu

• Cold-FX Extra/Echinacea/Any immune boosting formula
• Cold and flu medication
• Throat lozenges

Digestion

• Gravol (nausea relief)
• Senna (constipation relief)
• Immodium (diarrhoea relief)
• Gastrolyte (dehydration relief)

Allergies

• Benadryl
• Hydrocortisone cream/Calamine lotion
• Eye drops

Cuts, Scrapes, Burns

• Antiseptic
• Adhesive bandages of varying sizes
• Gauze
• Tape
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Gentle healing cream

Additional

• Antibiotic
• Sleep aid
• Saline solution
• Heat rub
• Gloves
• Condoms