Grab a Coffe at Gravity Espresso

Gravity Espresso is one of those coffee shops that feels like a staple of the community. Their little artist gallery inside featuring new local talent is such a beautiful way to learn about the artisans who make their living in Inglewood. Sitting in this comfy shop you’ll get to watch locals meet up, chat with their favourite baristas and smile at strangers as their morning begins with a great cup of coffee. And the coffees are really that good!

Have Brunch at Red’s Diner

As fun as trendy and hip brunch places are, nothing really hits the spot better than a traditional greasy spoon-type diner. And Red’s Diner is the best of the best. Red’s Diner serves incredible all-day breakfasts inside a friendly and comfortable interior. They have all the classics and a specialty Prairie Breakfast Plate, which adds potato cheddar perogies and Rocky’s kielbasa to a traditional breakfast platter. Their Blueberry, Basil & Goat Cheese Stuffed French Toast was INCREDIBLE! Portions are enormous, so don’t hesitate to share.

Grab a Novel at Fair’s Fair Books

Inglewood is home to some of the best shopping in all of Calgary. Make your first stop at the famed Fair’s Fair Books. This shop has been open since 1988, curating one of the best-used books stores in the province. While some used bookstores are a real shot in the dark for finding what you’re looking for, this enormous store really feels more like a high-end new bookstore as their selection is so deep! Plus, the cute and quirky decorations really make the place so inviting.

Be Entranced at The Apothecary in Inglewood

If you’re looking to relax, then you need to visit the Apothecary in Inglewood! You’re overwhelmed with the intoxicating smell of aromatic herbs, spices, and more just walking in the door. This store is known for its zero waste goods, pure essential oils, bulk herbs and refillable products. Forget Lush bath bombs and instead grab yourself a few of their handmade herbal bombs to pamper yourself in an indulgent bath. I love their selection of locally crafted candles as well. Nothing better than scents to bring back travel memories!

Become a Cowboy at Smithbilt Hats Inc

There’s perhaps no better accessory to shop for in Calgary than a cowboy hat. And no better place to do so than Smithbilt Hats Inc. The Smithbilt’s company was started by Morris Schumiatcher in 1910. The Schumiatcher family immigrated from Russia to Canada and changed their name to Smith when they arrived. The family made and sold dress hats with small brims, as was the style in Europe at the time. But as they spent more time in the prairies, the Stampede Board wanted to have Smithbilt’s create a special hat to promote western wear. This was where the white cattleman hat was invented. The white cattleman hat soon became the symbol of the Stampede and of Calgary itself.

You can still buy your very own white cattleman hat today in the shop. But there are so many more designs to choose from. Everything from classic styles to modern, brightly coloured hats withs feather and jewelled embellishments. Even if hats aren’t your thing, checking out the artistry required to handmake these hats is well worth your time. Drop-in and visit this truly historic Calgary establishment.

Find some Indigenous Made Treasures at Moonstone Creation

Moonstone Creation is an Indigenous-owned and family-run business proud to represent over 60 Indigenous makers and artisans from across Turtle Island. So many people buy Moccasins as a souvenir when visiting anywhere in Canada but rarely are these created by Indigenous makers. To purchase an authentic pair of Moccasins is expensive, but that is because they are intricately made by hand, with genuine leather and embellished with meaningful beading. But most importantly, you are supporting and honouring the Indigenous culture by buying them from Indigenous creators.

If you are looking for a beautiful gift or souvenir, they also have lovely beaded feather & orange shirt brooch kits. It’s a great way to learn about the history of beading and the methods which they have used to create these crafts for hundreds of years. The kits come with all the supplies you need. They also run beading workshops throughout the year, so check their website to see if one is running while you’re in town!

Fill up on Stationary at Recess

For anyone who loves stationery as much as me, visiting Recess is like being a kid in a candy store! There’s nothing better than a bright white interior filled with vividly bejewelled paper treasures. If you haven’t grabbed a new journal to document your travel memories, this is the perfect place to get one. If you’re interested in learning how to create beautiful hand lettering to take your journaling game to the next level, then you should grab one of their customs Learn to Letter Guides. They have so many unique items that will spice up any desk drawer.

Bring Home a Plant

Even if you can’t bring any of these little beauties home with you, a visit to Plant Shop is sure to brighten any grey day. The Plant Shop aims to help re-connect people with the natural world and inspire them to build and maintain more beautiful spaces! Just walking around the shop and looking at all the exotic plants is such a serene experience. They have great selections of handmade and ceramic planters as well in a myriad of exciting designs. So if you have some green beauties at home, you can bring these home as a memento of your trip. Plus their custom DIY Terrariums are a gorgeous gift for anyone who wants a low-maintenance plant to bring some greenery into their home office.

Get Your Spices at The Silk Road Spice Merchant

The Silk Road Spice Merchant is my favourite shop in town. This is the perfect place to come to upgrade your pantry! The colours, smells and flavours of the spices on offer here are captivating. The Silk Road Spice Merchant started up when the owners couldn’t find the kinds of international spices they wanted to try in their cooking. So they aimed to start up their own store where they would carry every type of spice imaginable! One of my favourite things in their shop is their Hot Cocoa blends. They offer Spicy Mexican Hot Cocoa, Winter Spice (with cinnamon, ginger, cloves and mace,) Cinnamon Cardamom Hot Cocoa and even Chai Masala Hot Cocoa. All of these warm, exotic flavours are the perfect thing to warm you up on a cold night.

Lunch at Inglewood Drive-In

If it’s time to get something to eat for lunch, head on over to the Inglewood Drive-In. This retro Diner is one of those classic spots you just can’t miss. Don’t let the dated exterior fool you; this place is an iconic Calgary destination. Everything from their mouth-watering handmade burgers, thick milkshakes, crispy onion rings, and perfectly seasoned french fries will make you coming back for more. They even serve up a Dole Whip ice cream! One of the only places you can get this pineapple treat outside of Disneyland. But the old-school foods aren’t without a few modern twists. They have new additions like the curry veggie burger and the spicy kimchi burger.

Hop on a Scooter

If the weather allows during your visit, you need to spend the afternoon explore Inglewood on a Scooter. There are several different companies that serve the Calgary area, with the various brands of scooters littering the sidestreets of the city. Bird scooters, Lime and Neuron Mobility, are the most popular and readily available in the city. Download the related app, and you’ll be able to see which scooters are the closest to you. You can also see on the app which scooters have the most battery life since you don’t wanna get stuck with no battery.

These scooters are so much fun to ride. Although you can easily walk to the following destinations spread out around Inglewood, the scooters are a blast to use and make the journey a little more speedy and a lot more fun! Simply hop on the scooter and make your way into the parkland towards our next destination.

Relax at Harvie Passage

Head north along 13th Street and east along New St. along the Bow River. The residential neighbourhood quickly gives way to the beautiful natural environment of the Pearce Estate Park. This tree-filled pathway is such a calming part of the city and the fact its mere steps away from the main street is one of the amazing things about Calgary.

Making your way along the river, you’ll reach the Harvie Passage Lookout. The Harvie Passage Lookout is wonderfully designed to give visitors a stunning view of the rapids below. Harvie Passage is a fast-running channel off the Bow River. After a massive flood in 2013, the city went about an extensive redesign to not only make this part of the river safer (for the rafters who would constantly sneak onto the waters) but provide a more enjoyable experience for river-based recreationists.

Kids and adults can wear lifejackets and ride down the western passage, which was created as a natural river ride. Lots of locals bring floaties or small rafts to ride down the river rapids as well. Even if you don’t have any of these with you, the stone steps they have created make a great place to rest your feet on a hot day. It’s incredible to see the entire community come out on hot days to enjoy this amazing riverside feature. And best of all, it’s totally free!

Enjoy a 5-Course Dinner at Deane House

One of the best ways to end off your day is with dinner at Deane House. Deane House was initially built in 1906 for Captain Richard Deane, who worked at Fort Calgary. Eventually, the house was moved the where you find it today. It was moved in 1929 to an area with a better view of the Elbow River. Over the years, the house was used as a boarding home and then purchased by the city to be used as a gallery.

Today, it’s home to one of the best restaurants in the city. In the summertime, you can dine outside in their immersive garden, rain or shine. Although they have a complete a-la-carte menu, the best option is their delightful 5-course chef’s tasting menu. The chef curates this selection weekly to suit the flavours and fresh produce of the month. The 5-course menu is $90 per person, which is truly a great price for the quality of food you receive. It’s such a fantastic way to cap off your evening.

Sunset on Scotsman’s Hill

If you’re looking for a spot to watch the sunset over the city, take a walk through ENMAX Park to the top of Scotsman’s Hill. To get there you’ll walk through the Elbow Riverpath which is the most serene walking path surrounded by Calgary’s relaxing natural landscape. Scotsman’s Hill is one of the best places in the town to give a view of Calgary’s skyline set behind a steep escarpment facing the Elbow River.

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Late Night Drinks at Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co.

To end the night, take a walk over to the Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Co. Ol’Beautiful Brewing Co. is located in this little hidden away corner of Inglewood, where you’ll want to while the night away. I’m not going to lie; the design of the beer cans drew me in right away but it was the amazing atmosphere that made me want to stay. The time-worn and well-loved interior designs of their taproom feels like it belongs in the hippest streets of Los Angeles or New York City. Inside this chic and vintage-adorned interior, you can sit and enjoy any of their amazing craft brews. Best of all surrounded by their friendly staff and incredible regulars. They are more than happy to help you find your perfect brew! If the weather is nice, their outdoor patio is a lively and fun place to enjoy your drinks.

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Play some Games at Revival Brewcade

If you’re a night owl and aren’t yet ready for your night to end, head back up to 9th avenue to Revival Brewcade. While the bar is stocked with incredible drinks, the best thing about this place is the retro pinball and arcade machines that line the walls. One of my biggest pet peeves about so-called “retro arcade bars” is how expensive the games can be. But here at Revival Brewcade, you can buy a $5 all you can play pinball card!! This will keep you there all night trying to get the top score!

After a day of cold brews, boutiques, beers and bars, it’s time to head back to your hotel or home for the night. Hopefully, you found more interesting shops along the way, which keep you coming back to Inglewood for more! Let me know in the comments if I missed your favourite place!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post How To Spend the Perfect Day in Inglewood Calgary first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. Map of Alternative Walking Tour of Hobart
2. History
3. Access
4. Lost Freight Cafe
5. Springs Lookout
6. Landscape and Wildlife
7. Rocky Whelans Cave
8. Wellington Pinnacle
9. Pinnacle Observation Shelter and Boardwalk
10. Chalet Walk & Organ Pipes
11. Cascade Brewery
12. Cascade Brewery Tours
13. Cascades Female Factory Historic Site
14. Children at the Female Factory
15. Hobart Convict Penitentiary
16. University Rose Gardens
17. Cenotaph
18. Government House
19. Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
20. Tasman Bridge
21. Bellerive
22. Hooked on Bellerive

Map of Alternative Walking Tour of Hobart

History

For over 35,000 years, the semi-nomadic Mouheneener tribe, a sub-group of the Nuenonne people, lived in Hobart. These indigenous people made good use of the astonishing natural resources the River Derwent provided. And the protected access to the Tasman sea also meant their fishing boats were kept safe but could be sent out to bring in fresh food. This indigenous group were the descendants of the Tasmanians we now refer to as the ‘Palawa‘ people.

Hobart was founded as a British colony in 1804, making it the second oldest capital city in Australia after Sydney. Hobart was settled as a penal colony, bringing the most hardened criminals from the shores of England and Ireland to the newly built prisons. Back then, Tasmania was dubbed the ominous ‘Van Diemen’s Land.’ The colony settled here was first named “Hobart Town.” It was named after Robert Hobart, 4th Earl of Buckinghamshire. Lord Hobart was the Secretary of the Colonies when Hobart was settled.

Hobart grew over the years as the freed convicts made their permanent home here. Despite their criminal past, people found these free men were hard and honest workers looking to simply restart their life here in Australia. When the penal colonies closed in 1850, whaling and shipbuilding became the prominent industry in Hobart. Due to Hobart’s proximity to the Southern Ocean, the fisherman quickly found and captured whales for the commercial market. Today, after the decline in whaling, Hobart finds itself serving as the port for Australian and French Antarctic operations and, of course, as a tourist destination for many Australians and international visitors alike.

Access

Our first and most important stop of the day is up kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Access to kunanyi/Mount Wellington is free, no park pass is required. The summit and observation shelter are open from 7 am to 10 pm (although it closes earlier in the winter months). You can take your own car up the winding Pinnacle Road.

Driving Advice & Instructions

The drive from downtown Hobart takes about 30 minutes. But take your time as the road bends and weaves around the mountain can be a bit treacherous to newbies. The Tasmanian government has an entire site dedicated to helping international drivers learn the road rules. But in terms of driving up the mountain, the key points are:

• only pull over to take photos where it is safe to do so
• always drive on the left side of the road
• slow down on winding or icy roads
• lookout for animals
• wear a seatbelt at all times
• never use a mobile phone while driving.

For specific driving directions, check here.

The road to the summit was constructed in the early 1930s. The name “Pinnacle Drive” is a more modern naming convention as it was first called ‘Ogilvie’s Scar.’ Albert Ogilvie was the premier of Tasmania during the 1930s. The newly created road up the mountain seemed to carve a scar into the hillside, as the forests were so heavily logged, leaving the woods almost bare.

Explorer Bus

If you didn’t bring your own vehicle, you could take the kunanyi/Mt Wellington Explorer Bus. This tour departs from Hobart and takes you to the summit. Once you arrive, you get to enjoy the panoramic views and observations shelter without doing the drive yourself! There are also a few different hop-on-hop-off options along the route. These are great if you wanted to explore any other walking trails around kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Throughout your journey on the bus, there is a commentary track from your drive. They will tell you all about the history and wildlife of the region. Your bus passes valid all day, but checks to see when the different pick-up/drop-off times and locations are.

Adult (17+ years): $35 | Child (6–16years): $25

What to Wear?

kunanyi/Mount Wellington rises 1,271 metres (4,170 ft) above sea level. The temperature up here is frequently so cold that the summit is covered in a thin blanket of snow, even in the summer! So be sure to bring a bunch of extra layers to ensure you’re not too cold up here. I thought I had dressed warmly enough but was shocked by the strong winds up here. The wind chill drops the temperature even further! So bring more than you think you’ll need. A puffer jacket is an excellent option since it is so light to carry around in your bag after the tour. A scarf, hat and gloves are also a necessity!

Lost Freight Cafe

If you are driving yourself, you MUST make a stop at the Lost Freight cafe. Even if you are taking the Explorer Bus you can get off at the ‘Springs’ stop. The cafe is located on the road to kunanyi/Mount Wellington. It provides a scenic place to grab a quick coffee and pastry before heading off into the brisk weather of the summit! This is the best way to keep warm while exploring the mountain. Plus, it’s just the cutest place to make a stop with some of the friendly staff!

Springs Lookout

While your stopping for that coffee, you might as well take a short walk over to the Springs Lookout. Thru the trees along the winding road, it’s hard to see the beautiful views. But from this little lookout point, you get a fantastic view across the hillside.

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Landscape and Wildlife

As you climb the mountain, look out your window at the incredible landscape. The initial climb is full of lush Eucalypti forests. On either side, you’ll see tiny bursts of water flowing out from the rocks. These ravines, creeks and hidden waterfalls flood the mountain range. The freshwater creates colossal tree ferns that flourish in the moist ground.

The animals that live in these mountains are so diverse! I hadn’t even heard of some of the creatures that live up here. Everything from potoroos, pademelons, quolls, bettongs, and bandicoots! There are also the common possum, bats, echidnas, the elusive platypus, small frogs, reptiles, and of course the alpine lizards. There are also 67 different bird species living in these forests including peregrine falcons, wedge-tailed eagles, swift parrots and grey goshawks.

Rocky Whelans Cave

One of the most interesting stories of the mountain is of a dangerous bushranger named John ‘Rocky’ Whelan. Whelan is actually my maiden, and my brother is named John Whelan, so it was a shock to read about this Whelan’s gruesome story! John Whelan was an Englishman who had been convicted of a crime and sentenced to seven years in Tasmania’s penal system. But upon arriving, he escaped custody and went on to become a prolific highway robber. Eventually, he was caught once more and, this time, sentenced to eighteen years on Norfolk Island in New Zealand. After that prison closed and he was being moved to Port Arthur, he escaped once more! He made his way into the rugged bushland of kunanyi/Mt Wellington, where he hid in a cave, now named ‘Rocky Whelan’s Cave.’ But it wasn’t just hiding that Rocky was doing in this cave…

One day when visiting a shoemaker in Hobart, the shoemaker noticed a name on the bottom of the shoes. The words “Dunn” were embossed on the bottom of the shoes, the name of a man who had recently gone missing, suspected dead. The shoemaker managed to get a hold of the authorities who arrested Rocky when he came to collect the shoes. When Rocky was arrested, they found he was wearing all the clothes of the murdered Mr. Dunn. He confessed to the killing, and the police found the decomposing body of Dunn inside the cave. Rocky went on to confess to the murders of five people. The cave is located just a short walk from the Springs Lookout.

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Wellington Pinnacle

When you finally reach the summit, the landscape changes from lush green ferns into flat sandstone cliffs. The sub-alpine flora and glacial rock formations you find on the summit are so unique. It feels like walking on the moon. You might have noticed that anytime I write Mount Wellington I pair it with the word kunanyi. Kunanyi is the proper Palawa name for the mountain. The indigenous Tasmanian people have called it such for thousands of years before the British colonizers’ arrival. In 2014, the mountain’s name was officially changed to kunanyi/Mt Wellington. This was done as part of the Tasmanian Government’s Aboriginal and Dual Naming Policy.

Standing at the top of the summit, you can see the entirety of Hobart, the River Derwent and even the surrounding hillsides spread out across you like a painting. The most iconic aspect of the summit is the igneous rock spread out over the landscape. These were formed by layers of rocks pushing upwards by upsurges of molten rock as the Australian continental shelf violently tore away from the Antarctic. It’s incredible to think how old these rock formations are. This separation from Antarctica happened over 40 million years ago!

Charles Darwin Visits the Mountain

Charles Darwin visited Hobart Town in 1836. He made an effort to climb the mountains and described his journey to the summit.

“The summit of the mountain is broad and flat, and is composed of huge angular masses of naked greenstone… The day was splendidly clear, and we enjoyed a most extensive view; to the north, the country appeared a mass of wooded mountains, of about the same height with that on which we were standing, and with an equally tame outline: to the south the broken land and water, forming many intricate bays, was mapped with clearness before us. …”

Pinnacle Observation Shelter and Boardwalk

Once you get out of your car or bus at the summit, you can walk along the boardwalk toward the Observation Shelter. The short section of the pathways leading into the Observation Shelter has been made to be wheelchair accessible. Inside the Observation Shelter is a great place to look out at the fantastic views but be protected from the harsh weather as the room is encased in glass.

The boardwalk continues one along the cliff edge. A set of stairs leads you towards a view platform that puts you out on the absolute edge of the mountain to get the best views. Continue walking along the boardwalk as the more you explore, the more of the unique landscape you’ll discover!

Chalet Walk & Organ Pipes

If you are keen to take a short hike, I recommend the Chalet Walk. The Chalet Walk is a 2 km return trip, so it’s easy for almost anyone to do. This walk takes you along the Organ Pipe track, which is usually a 3-hour return journey. But if you start the walk at the Chalet, you can enjoy a small section of the Organ Pipes walk without trekking the entire section. This little exploration takes you to see the spectacular dolerite columns found there. These dolerite columns, called the Organ Pipes cliffs, are some of the most dramatic natural sculptures in all of Tasmania. They were created from molten magma 175 million years ago. Their soaring structure is made of Doleratie, which are crystals formed when the magma cools down quickly rather than slowly over time.

Simply walk as far as you’d like and turn around when you feel like you’re ready to return to the Chalet. The hop-on-hop-off bus makes stops here so you’ll able to make your way over even without your own car. The chalet is also a great place to sit and enjoy the views with a breakfast picnic!

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Cascade Brewery

Heading back down the mountain, make your way to the South Hobart neighbourhood. Nestled in these suburbs are a few historical treasures of Hobart’s past. If you are taking the Explorer Bus, you can ask to get off at the Fern Tree Park Stop. From there board the 448 Bus at Fern Tree station towards stop 20, Huon Rd near Hillborough Road. Then it’s a 20-minute walk to the Brewery. Although it sounds like a trek, we loved the winding, scenic walk leading up to the great Brewery!

Walking up Cascade Brewery, the enormous building feels a little ominous. It feels almost out of place, as such tall buildings are scarce to find in Hobart. On the grey, misty morning when we arrived the building looked absolutely haunting! The misty shadow of kunanyi/Mt Wellington silhouetted behind the sandstone facade. But once you get inside, you’ll find a charming brewery serving up some fantastic local beers and ciders. Although you’ll discover that its tumultuous history gives reason for the rather spooky atmosphere here.

History of Cascade Brewery

The history of Cascade Brewery is marred with deception and hints at its convict past. The Cascade Brewery first opened in 1824 and remains the oldest continually operating brewery in Australia. Originally the estates here consisted of large sawmills producing the much-needed timber used in the Hobart shipyards. Shipbuilding was one of Hobart’s largest and most lucrative industries, so the demand for timber was very high. Hobart was an optimal location for shipbuilding as the blue gum trees around the city made for some of the best ship lumber.

Peter Degraves and Hugh Macintosh

The Cascade Brewery was the brainchild of Peter Degraves and Hugh Macintosh. Until 2011 this was not the commonly accepted truth. It was previously thought that the brewery was founded only by Peter Degraves. Degraves was a cheat and a debtor so it’s no surprise he managed to fool everyone for years that he was the sole creator. Peter came to the shores of Hobart with his brother-in-law Hugh Macintosh in 1824. Degraves had decided to come to Hobart only to escape his charges of thievery in England. But you can’t run from your past forever.

When they arrived, Macintosh wasn’t so keen on the idea of a brewery. But Degraves convinced him to fund it anyway. In 1826, Degraves was arrested for the debts he had in England. He was sentenced to prison for five years in Hobart. Once Degraves was in jail, the kindly Macintosh opted to pay off all Degraves’ outstanding debts. Macintosh abandoned the operation of the brewery and focused his attention on the lucrative sawmills he ran with his nephews.

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Once Degraves was let out of prison, Macintosh (for whatever reason) agreed to allow him back into the partnership. Degraves immediately went about expanding the brewery. When Macintosh died in 1834, Degraves offered to buy out the other half of the estate. Macintosh’s sons, who inherited the property, lived far away in India and had no interest in the estate. The sons agreed and transferred the deed to Degraves but, as was the pattern with Degraves, he never paid them. In fact, Degraves went onto falsify the brewery’s history after Macintosh’s death and made it appear as if he was the sole owner.

The Gold Rush & Today

Despite his trickery, both the mill and the brewery began to experience a boom of growth, and the money came rolling in. The gold rush in Victoria demanded the import of both timber and beer for the miners. And lucky for Degraves, he could supply both! Eventually, Degraves died and the brewery passed hands a few times. Eventually, the brewery was purchased by Australian subsidiary Carlton & United Breweries, who still own the brewery today. Sadly, a massive bushfire in 1967 destroyed many buildings around South Hobart, the brewery included. Thanks to immense restoration efforts, the entirety of the brewery was rebuilt stone by stone and looks like a replica of the original.

Tasmania Tiger

The original icon of the Cascade Brewing Company is the now extinct Tasmania Tiger or thylacine. The thylacine was the largest carnivorous marsupial native to Tasmania. They called it the Tasmania Tiger as a nickname was the stripes on its lower back resembled that of a tiger. Like the kangaroo, the thylacine also carried its young inside its abdominal pouch. The animal was timid and only about the size of a large dog. Sadly, intensive hunting, shockingly encouraged by state bounties on the animal, contributed to its eventual extinction. New diseases were brought to the country by the English settlers. Their encroachment on the land also led to the thylacine’s disappearance. The last Tasmania tiger died in captivity in 1930. The Tasmanian devil is its closest living relative.

Cascade Brewery Tours

Cascade Brewery is famous for its beers inspired by the incredible fruits from Tasmania. The best place to learn more about the brewery and sample some of their beers is to take one of their tours. They have two options, the historical tour and the brewery tour. The historical tour is 45 minutes long and allows visitors who want to hear stories about their humble beginnings through to their current history. If you choose to add a tasting to the tour, you will be able to head into the bar to sample various Cascade’s beers and ciders. The tour without the tasting costs $22 AUD, and the Tour + Tasting costs $32 AUD. This tour runs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

The brewery tour is an hour and 15 minutes long and studies the art of creating the nation’s oldest beer recipes. You’ll get to explore previously unseen areas of the brewery and finish off with a tasting paddle of four of Cascade’s beers or ciders. The brewery tour costs $30 AUD and only runs on Saturdays and Sundays. Be sure to book in advance as these spots book up fast. If you can’t attend one of the tours, you can always grab the sampler platter inside the bar and read this post to your group so they can learn all about the history.

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Cascade Brewery Bar

The Cascade Brewery Bar is also a great place to grab a bite to eat while sampling their brews. Their menu is full of incredible Tasmanian delights. Their taste of ‘Tassie platter’ is a fantastic way to try a bunch of different local items at once. It consists of smoked wallaby, pale ale glazed ham, salmon rillettes, apple relish, pickled vegetables and lavosh bread.

Cascades Female Factory Historic Site

Down the aptly named “Cascade Road,” make your way over to the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site. The walk from the brewery to the site is only 10 minutes and a 5-minute drive. Although most of the prisons in Australia were meant for male offenders, a large percentage of female convicts were also sent to Van Diemen’s Land. Throughout the penal colonies’ history in Australia, 25,000 convict women were sent to Australia to serve their time. It is said that anywhere between 1 in 5 and 1 in 7 Australians are related to the women who came thru these prisons! They were the true mothers of modern Australia.

Female Factories in Australia

The women sent to so-called “Female Factories” were seen as corrupt. They needed to be removed from society. Only after they reformed could they return to become functional members of the community. They were therefore sent to these workhouses masquerading as prisons. Here, it was thought the women would become reform criminals if they were put to work. The hope was also that the work they produced would make the institutions profitable, although this was rarely the case. The Cascade Female Factory was open from 1828 to 1856. Unlike many of the male prisons that remain today, many of these females factories were destroyed. The Cascade Female factory is the only remaining one, making it a spot of colossal significance.

History of the Cascade Female Factory

Inside the cold, stone walls of the Cascade Female Factory, the women would be forced to take part in a multitude of tasks. Everything from spinning wool, sewing clothing, cleaning dirty laundry, cooking and working in the nearby hospital. The different tasks were assigned to each prisoner based on their “class.” Classes were determined by the severity of their crimes. The well-behaved, low-level “1st Class” criminals were given the preferable tasks. These first-class women even got to act as overseers to the other prisoners. Those in the second and third classes were given the tough, physically demanding jobs. Women were made to labour 12 hours a day, even in the winter. During these freezing cold months, the women had to work in the dark of the night, under the imposing shadow of kunanyi/Mount Wellington.

Conditions inside this prison were dire. More than 1000 people lived inside these walls at one time. The location of the prison was built upon damp swampland. The icy winds from the mountain would batter the women working in the open-air yards. The grounds where the women were working were muddy, cold and filthy. All of this resulted in the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow and spread. Add to this overcrowding and inadequate sanitization, and you are left with a cesspool of disease and suffering. Once diseases got out, many women and children died from the outbreaks.

Tour of the Female Factory

Three of the five original work yards still remain and you can walk through them on your tour of the factory. Their crumbling walls have been replaced with piles of old bricks, shaped with wiring into the original layout of the factory. One of the remaining historic buildings on the grounds is the Matron’s Quarters in Yard 4. Inside this building that still stands, you can see what life was like for the factory administrators. Inside, you can see the matron’s 19th-century parlour, bedroom and kitchen. It is the only remaining building from the convict era that stands in the Female Factory today. There would have also been a similarly designed building on the opposite side of the property but it has since been lost to bushfires.

Children at the Female Factory

Many of the women who were imprisoned here fell pregnant and even gave birth to their children while in prison. Others were transported to the jail from England with their small children in tow. Their fathers had either given them up or passed away themselves. Life in the prison was challenging for the women but almost unsurvivable for small children. The high infant mortality rate for children was drawing public attention, and so Yard 4 was converted into a nursery. The building could house 88 women and over 150 children. Walking around this space is haunting and its almost impossible to imagine how so many people could have been forced into this small space.

The nursey allowed convict mothers to wean their babies on site. But once they were three years of age the children were removed from their mothers and sent to Queen’s Orphan School. Visitors to the prison in the 19th-century described life in the nursery as a genuinely horrible place. Babies were crammed 4 to a crib, and baskets of straw were laid on the ground to be used as beds for the other children. Inside the historic site, you can still see bronze sculptures of the cribs lying outside in the yard. These stand as a haunting memory and commemorate the lives of all those lost children.

Hours: Open seven days a week from 9:30am – 4:00pm
Admission: $8 AUD for entry | $18 for the Heritage Guided Tour and Entry

Hobart Convict Penitentiary

Continuing on the convict route in Hobart, let’s head over to the old Hobart Convict Penitentiary. If you’re travelling without a car, take bus #446 from Stop 13 on Cascade Rd to Macquarie St outside St David’s Cathedral. From there it’s a 13-minute walk from Macquarie Street to Campbell Street.

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The Old Barracks

The place where you find the historic Hobart Convict Penitentiary was originally the Hobart Prisoners’ Barracks, or as they called it ‘The Tench.’ This place was the first stop for prisoners coming from Britain who had yet to be assigned to a specific prison; such as Port Arthur. From here, men and women would be sent off to a variety of different convict sites across Tasmania. The barrack was initially built to house 640 convicts, but almost immediately, this was found to be too small. Therefore, the barracks were expanded to eventually hold up to 1,200 convicts.

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The barracks were constructed over a two-acres long block and enclosed in high, sandstone walls. The tops of the walls were encrusted with broken glass to ensure prisoners couldn’t easily climb out. Over 50,000 prisoners would come to stay in the barracks over the years during its operations. Today, not much remains of the first barracks. Only a few sandstone walls that once enclosed the barracks on the Campbell Street side are still visible.

Penitentiary Chapel

In 1831 a chapel was built for the prisoners. Part of a convict’s reformation was that they had to go to church. Therefore, architect John Lee Arthur was hired to build a church. What Lee ended up creating was thought to be one of his best works. He designed the building in the Georgian Renaissance style. John Lee Archer drew the layout of the building into a cruciform design, in the shape of the Christian cross. The church’s crowning glory was the glorious clock tower, which remains one of the most iconic sights along Campbell Street.

The church was designed to hold both prisoners and regular citizens of Hobart. The regular citizens would enter through a separate entrance, to ensure they were kept away from the prisoners. Also to ensure separations, the seating was designed on an incline. This allowed everyday citizens to attend church without the convicts’ eyes staring across at them as they attempted to pray. The prisoners were made to sit on hard, wood benches, whereas the citizens had large, spacious pews.

Solitary Confinement Cells

But some of the prisoners in the barracks were deemed too dangerous to be kept with the rest of the convict population. A need for solitary confinement cells arose, but there was no more space to construct a new building on the grounds. So John Lee Archer went about renovating the area underneath the chapel to accommodate 36 solitary confinement cells. The brick cells were designed to decrease in height to support the inclined floors of the chapel above. Because the chapel was both a place of worship and a place of punishment, this meant that the church would never be consecrated.

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As soundproofing wasn’t a consideration at the time, people in the church often complained they could hear the sounds of screaming convicts during their church services. A horrific thing to imagine hearing while trying to pray in peace. In 1847 some of the smallest cells called the “dust holes”, were sealed up as they were deemed to be inhumane. These cells were so small the convicts had to crawl inside. There was no light, and the poor ventilation would have made it almost impossible to breathe.

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Hobart Old Gaol

In 1860, when no more convicts were being brought to the shores of Tasmania, the building was converted into the Hobart Old Gaol (Jail) and Supreme court. Two of the old chapel wings were converted into courtrooms used for criminal trials. The remaining two wings were kept as a working chapel. Tunnels underground connected the courtroom to the docks so prisoners could be kept out of view of the public when being brought to trial. During its conversion into a Gaol, an execution yard was installed. Here, 32 people would lose their lives. In fact, the last person to be hanged here in Tasmania was killed in 1946!

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Tours of the Old Penitentiary

The building is open to the public on Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 3pm through the Pandemonium Experience. This guided tour and multi-sensory film experience immerses you in the chaos of convict life in Van Diemen’s Land. You will hear the stories, feel the emotions, and walk the footsteps of the wretched souls who passed through this penitentiary.

Admission: $10 adults and $5 children aged 7 -16 (although the stories are rather gruesome, you might want to think about bringing any children who are too young). The guided tour lasts 40 minutes.

You can also take a Hobart Convict Penitentiary Ghost Tour after dark! These night tours take you through the historic site and detail haunting stories from the prisoners and citizens who remember life in the Hobart Penetiantary. And if you’re fortunate (or unfortunate depending on how you look at it), you might even spot one of the spirits that are said to haunt this building. If you don’t have the opportunity to go on a guided ghost tour, then please check out our self-guided ghost tour of Hobart, where you can learn all about the various haunting tales that make up the spiritual history of Hobart.

Admission: $30 for a 90-minute tour. The tours generally run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Be sure to reserve a spot in advance as they book up quickly!

University Rose Gardens

Let’s switch gears for a moment and enter into the beauty of the University Rose Gardens. These fantastical formal floral gardens contain hundreds of different rose bushes, stone sculptures and peaceful places to reset. When they are in bloom, the smell is almost overwhelming.

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Cenotaph

Continue east, towards the great Tasmanian Cenotaph. There is a pedestrian walking path that runs parallel to Liverpool street that you can use to access the Cenotaph. The Cenotaph is a 75-foot tall granite obelisk. It was made to pay tribute to the Tasmanian soldiers who died during World War One. With spectacular views of the Derwent River, the gorgeous open-air park was chosen as it was once the site of the Queen’s Battery from 1838 until 1923. The image of kunanyi/Mount Wellington aptly looks down over the landscape in a splendid dramatic fashion.

Soldier’s Memorial Avenue

On either side of the pathway towards the Cenotaph, named Soldier’s Memorial Avenue, are rows of great cedar trees. Three varieties of cedars were planted here; the Himalayan cedar, the Atlas cedar and the Blue Atlas. Cedar trees are symbolic of strength as they can endure any type of weather conditions. They are also known for their longevity—a perfect symbolic choice for memorizing these great soldiers.

Along the avenue are 480 bronze plaques placed near the trees. The plaques carry details about the soldiers from their name, unit, place and date of death, occupation and a range of other information about their family, military career and civilian life. It really gives you a peek into the kind of people these lost soldiers were.

The Cenotaph Obelisk

The design of the huge Cenotaph obelisk was meant to reinterpret the look of a traditional Egyptian obelisk. But as it was made in the 20th-century they wanted to add an art deco spin, as was the syle of the times. The obelisk stands 75 feet (23 meters) high and is made of stoic grey granite. The pyramidal cap of the cenotaphs is decorated with red opaque glass which is illuminated during the evening to glow red. The effect is a beautiful, yet haunting image in the sky. The inscription at the bottom of the structure reads “Lest We Forget 1914–1919″. On each side of the obelisk are four crests representing the; Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Australian Navy, Australian Commonwealth Military Forces and the Royal Australian Army Nursing Corps.

Government House

Five minutes up the road by car, or a 20-minute walk, head over to the Government House Tasmania. To access this area on foot, be sure to use the pedestrian crossings along the Tasman Highway whose entrance can be found near the highway underpass at the Cenotaph. Sitting here, looking out at the water, is what appears to be a giant castle! But in actual fact, this 19th-century building, called the Government House, was the residence of Governor Sir Henry Fox Young.

The house was built by architect William Porden Kay in Neo-Gothic style. Kay aimed to make the building resemble the design of a castle but in minature. Although minimal in size, the bas relief sculptures on the facade are wonderfully playful, featuring window mullions, gargoyles, carved chimney pots and lovely window traceries.

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The beautiful sandstone facade was made from stone quarried from this very site. The holes where they dug are now used as ornamental ponds. Because the structure has almost entirely been saved from destruction or modern renovations, it remains one of the best Vice-Regla residences in the commonwealth.

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Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Just opposite the Governor’s House, pay a visit to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. This natural wonderland is a great place to learn more about the incredible flora and fauna unique to Tasmania. The garden was opened in 1818, making it the second oldest Botanical Gardens in Australia!

Tasmanian Ferns and Flora

Once inside, your first stop should be at the Tasmanian Section and Fern House to the north of the entrance. Some of the most important Tasmanian plants include the Huon Pine, Deciduous Beech and the Eucalyptus Regnans. The fern house is absolutely spectacular, with aromatic towering ferns swaying overhead.

Further north, you will find your way to the Subantarctic Plant House. Due to the cooler climate that Tasmania receives, this garden contains Australia’s only Subantarctic Plant House. This plant house aim is to ensure the conservation of all the precious Tasmanian plants, including the unusual King’s Lomatia shrub.

Herb & Community Garden

For some aromatherapy treatment, walk over to the luscious herb garden, filled with everything a chef would need to infuse their food with fresh bursts of flavour. Near the herb garden, you’ll find the historical “Arthur’s Wall.” In 1829, newly installed Governor George Arthur wanted to install a heated wall to protect his imported plants from frosty winter weather.

These heated walls were all the rage in English Gardens. There were made with bricks and had an internal hollow channel built inside. The heat and hot air from coal-fired furnaces would travel along the stone surfaces, protecting the plants and keeping them warm. But unknown to Arthur until his first winter in Tasmania, the weather never dropped cold enough to implement the use of the walls. England saw much colder temperatures than here in Tasmnia, a fact Arthur would only discover after he had had the walls built at great expense. The walls were only used once or twice before being put out of use. Still, the technology is fascinating to study as it still stands today!

One of the best things the Botanical Gardens does for the community was to open their spare beds to be used as a community garden. This is where those in need can grow their own food with the help of knowledgeable staff.

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International Gardens

I adore the fantastic French Memorial Fountain. This fountain was built in 1972 to commemorate the bicentenary of French exploration in Tasmania. The sculpture is made out of Tasmanian Huon Pine, and its abstract shape is meant to represent the shape of the bow and sails of a French ship.

Located on the northeastern side of the garden is the beautiful Japanese Garden with its iconic red wooden bridge sprawling across the peaceful waterfalls. This area of the park was designed by Kanjiro Harada, a landscape architect from Yaizu, Japan, Hobart’s sister city. Just as in Japan, depending on the season, the colours shapeshift and seems to change the entire atmosphere of the garden. There is never a wrong time to come here. In Spring, you can see the cherry blossoms; in summer, you’ll watch the water lilies bloom. Fall brings dazzling red maples and even in the winter, the waterfall never stops flowing.

Admission: Access to the gardens is free, but you can leave a donation of your choice if you want to continue to support the gardens.

Tasman Bridge

Opposite the gardens is the imposing Tasman Bridge. The bridge is home to two pedestrian walkways. While the bridge itself is made of a simple concrete structure, the views of the Derwent River and the city of Hobart sprawled out in front of you are what is worth the journey up here!

Bellerive

To end the night off, head over to the historic suburb of Bellerive. Bellerive is just on the other side of the Hobart waterfront. If you’ve already dined along Fisherman’s Wharf, this little jaunt over to the east side of the peninsula is totally worth exploring. Bellerive was settled in the 1820s, and it is one of the most historic areas of Hobart. The area was initially called Kangaroo Point, but the name was changed to Bellerive, meaning beautiful riverbank, in the 1830s. Don’t worry if you don’t have a car; Uber services this area and is a great way to get around.

Hooked on Bellerive

Hooked on Bellerive is a total hidden gem. Although it’s small in size, located on a literal floating pontoon, the interior is a gorgeous blend of nautical design and modern aesthetics. The glass windows along the water’s edge make you feel like you’re dining right on the water, and the windows even open right up on hot days. The food is as traditional as can be with a small menu consisting of fried fish, scallops, oysters and calamari served with a side of chips and salad. The wonderfully friendly staff here makes you feel like family, and it’s honestly worth the journey to see a neighbourhood outside the centre of Hobart.

Heading back to the main downtown area, you’ll get a beautiful view of Hobart at night as you cross back over the Tasman Bridge. The lights of the city dancing off the dark water is a sight to see and another reason to come on over to Bellerive. Hopefully, you enjoyed this tour and discovered some of the unique natural features of Hobart and learned a bit more about the dark convict history that haunts these shores.

Happy Travels, Adventurer!

The post An Exciting Alternative Day Tour of Hobart: Mountains, Convicts and More first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

What NOT to do in Prague and what to do Instead!

1. Don't Watch the Astronomical Clock Show
2. Don't Walk Down Karlova Street
3. Don't Accept Anything you Didn't Order
4. Don't Hire a Taxi
5. Don't Visit the Charles Bridge at Midday
6. Don't Drink the Absinthe
7. Don't Think the "trdelnik" is Czech
8. Don't Take the #22 Tram
9. Don't Visit Wenceslas Square at night 
10. Don't Waste your Time on a Segway Tour
11. Don't Change Money on the Street
12. Don't take a "Historical" Car Tour
13. Don't Eat at the Restaurants in or near Old Town Square
14. Don't Overpay for Beer

Don’t Watch the Astronomical Clock Show

One of the most popular attractions in Prague is the Astronomical Clock “Show“. Every hour the clock chimes, music plays and figures dance around the dials. Tourists flock to the square during this time and create a mob around the clock, sometimes so thick you can barely see much of anything. They are usually all so loud too that you can’t even hear the music play.

Instead:

Wait a few minutes after the show has finished. Moments after, all the tourists flutter away and you’ll be staring up at this work of art almost all by yourself. If you’ve come to Prague to study the incredible art and architecture, skip watching the show in person – videos of it can be found easily on youtube, and spend your time up close and personal when the bucket listers have left. 

Don’t Walk Down Karlova Street

Karlova Street starts right behind the Hotel Aurus and ends at the foot of the Charles Bridge. Although the buildings which adorn the street have stunning baroque facades, this once historic street has been overtaken with cheesy souvenir shops selling silly tchotchkes from China at engorged priced. There are so many people in Prague trying to take advantage of the many tourists who come here that even the most Czech looking souvenir on this street is no doubt from overseas. The architecture is not worth the hubbub and you end up fighting your way through this densely frustrating street to even see much of anything. There are so many more lovely buildings you’ll see in other, less well-known areas of the city, so don’t feel like you’re missing out.

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Instead:

Head down to Havel’s Market. This is the oldest market in the city, dating back to 1232. Although it originally only sold produce to feed the people of the city, in later years it has begun to sell souvenirs and other handmade Czech goods from local artisans. This is where you can come to find a traditional souvenir for friends or family back at home which you can proudly boast is “made in Prague“. But be sure to taste test some of those amazing fruits and veggies too!

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Don’t Accept Anything you Didn’t Order

Until I had been to Prague I had never had any issues at restaurants while travelling so I didn’t think twice when I was given two welcome drinks I didn’t order. I thought they were merely a gift from the restaurants and would be free of charge. Boy, was I wrong! Luckily they only cost 3 euros so it wasn’t like it broke the bank but I felt so stupid and taken advantage of.

This is, unfortunately, a pretty common scam in Prague, especially in popular tourist restaurants. If your server comes to your table and doesn’t even offer you the drink, just put it down, be assertive and call him back to take it away. Study your bill upon leaving and don’t pay for anything you didn’t order. The staff will usually back down instantly once they realized they’ve been caught since they’re going for the easy mark. They’ll usually say it was merely a mistake and take it off your bill without any drama.

Instead:

Visit restaurants outside the city centre where these scams aren’t an issue and where you’ll find more authentic and traditional meals.

Don’t Hire a Taxi

Taxis are another common scam in Prague. Catching a cab outside popular tourist areas or from the train station means leaving yourself vulnerable to dishonest drivers. Almost none of them use the meter, even the reputable companies, and when you arrive at your destination they seem to make up a fee out of the blue which is often far, far more than you were originally quoted. Many tourists will find it hard to argue when it’s their word against the drivers and will simply pay the fare and be on their way. 

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Instead:

If you have a Czech SIM card or have a good international plan on your phone and can access the internet, and take advantage of UBER which has recently launched in Prague. This means you can check your fare before the cab arrives and you won’t be charged a surprising amount once at your destination. We used this a lot while we were there and had absolutely no issues!

If you are interested in exploring the city on your own, consider renting a car. AutoEurope has a big variety of cars in Czech Republic and since there are so many places out of town which can be a little difficult to get to on public transport, having your own car is a great way to find unique adventures.

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Don’t Visit the Charles Bridge at Midday

The Charles Bridge is one of the most iconic images and sights in Prague. And while I would never say to skip it all together, during the afternoon, this bridge is PACKED! Almost to the point where you can barely see anything but people! There is so much to look at and admire on this bridge and being overwhelmed by tourists isn’t the experience I’d want you to have your first time here.

Instead:

During the afternoon, use one of the other bridges to the north or south and nab yourself a beautiful picture of the Charles Bridge and the Prague skyline all in one. During the early morning or evening, the bridge is much less full and you can take the time to appreciate the beautiful statues and architecture which makes this bridge so iconic.

Don’t Drink the Absinthe

Walking down the cobblestone roads of Prague you can’t help you notice the dozens and dozens of signs for Absinthe. Absinthe was originally produced in Switzerland but became popular in France during the 18th century. Absinthe became a popular drink in Czechoslovakia in the early 1900s but the kinds of Absinthe you see in bars today is far from the real thing. Often you’ll even see it spelt “Absinth” without the “e”, since it’s missing the key ingredient to make it authentic absinthe. Most places don’t serve it the way it’s meant to be drank, resulting in a horribly bitter taste. While there are some bars which still offer the traditional serving, it’s better not to risk it.

Instead:

Indulge in the local spirits like plum or pear brandy or the dozens and dozens of cheap, local beer! These will often be half the price and more than twice as delicious!

Don’t Think the “trdelnik” is Czech

The “trdelnik” is a chimney-shaped pastry, coated in butter and cooked on a rotating spit over a charcoal fire. Then they are covered in your chosen topping like cinnamon sugar, nuts or Nutella. They are instagrammable and frankly, delicious, but they are NOT Czech. They are originally from Slovakia and arrived in Prague when the packs of tourists did. Don’t go around eating them day in and day out, saying you’re sampling local cuisine!

Instead:

Head to a mom and pop bakery where you can sample different traditional pastries for what ONE trdelnik would cost you. And without waiting in a long line too! They are just, if not more, tastey and will open your taste buds up to flavours you’ve never had before!

Don’t Take the #22 Tram

The #22 tram is notorious for having pickpockets. The #22 is the route most tourists take since it runs around the old town and drops you off at all the big ticket attractions. Since there are so many tourists on these trams, often crammed inside, it’s easy for pickpockets to spot their mark and do the deed without being noticed. If you do take a ride, be vigilant and hold onto your belongings in front of you so as to not be robbed in plain sight.

Instead:

Prague is much smaller than you might think and the best way to see it is on foot! While keeping your wits about you is another great tip if you find yourself riding the tram, walking allows you to wander off the set path and explore whatever catches your eye! Plus you’ll save a little bit of money which can be better spent on a cold beer to end a long day!

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Don’t Visit Wenceslas Square at night 

Wenceslas Square is one of the most historic areas of the city. This enormous square hosts some of the most incredible bohemia architecture and was the place of many revolutionary events in Prague’s history. During the day it is filled with happy locals and tourists alike enjoying public spaces but at night it’s a different story. This place attracts swarms of bachelor and bachelorette parties. They are often very drunk and disorderly and the best thing to do is to avoid them altogether. Drunken tourists seem to bring forth the darker side of the city. Prostitutes and scammers are known to frequent the square in the hopes of taking advantage of these tourists with their guards down.

Instead:

If you’re looking to take in the sights of a Baroque city lit up at night, head down to Old Town Square. The restaurants around the square are to be avoided due to their high costs and low quality but their presence brings lots of life to the square even at night meaning its a very safe place to explore. And when all those buildings are lit up they seem to emit an ethereal glow.

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Don’t Waste your Time on a Segway Tour

Segway tours have become an epidemic throughout Europe. And the locals despise them. Segways are “two-wheeled, self-balancing personal transportation vehicles”. They rush along the sidewalks at speeds which are quite dangerous to pedestrians especially when the riders might not be too experience or even perhaps under the influence. Often you see tourists spending more time trying to figure out how to use these vehicles than spending time enjoying the sights. Be kind to the people who call this city home and don’t take a ride on these dangerous machines.

Instead:

If you’re looking for a different kind of guided tour, don’t go for the Segways. Try out of Foodie tour where you explore the city through its culinary culture. Or try Urban Adventures’s retro bike tour where you can ride on bikes which were made in communist Czechoslovakia and see the best Prague has to offer to boot.

Don’t Change Money on the Street

Although Prague does accept Euros, they are exchanged in most establishments at a much lower exchange rate than if you were using the Czech Koruna. If you have Euros and you’re hoping to exchange them for Czech Koruna’s you’ll find yourself at the mercy of one of Prague’s popular scams. Many “exchange” bureaus around old town aren’t actually official money exchange businesses and will give you immensely lower rates than official exchange. These places have been known to list one rate on the signage outside but once you come inside they change it without you noticing. Another common scam is the people exchanging money on the street. These are full on rip-offs as these vendors will give you fake currency instead of real Czech Korunas.

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Instead:

Stick to ATMs. The best way to get Czech Koruna is either to bring it with you from your bank back home or to take money out at a reliable ATM whose brand name you’re familiar with. Yes, this means you’ll have to pay some bank fees but it is definitely the easiest and safest option. 

Don’t take a “Historical” Car Tour

All over old town, you’ll see signs advertising “Historical Car Tours“. For 60 minutes and around 120 euros, you’ll be driven across the historic areas of Prague with a driver “guide”. These guides often barely speak with the riders and since the cars are all open tops, it’s very hard to hear what they’re saying anyway. The “historic” cars are anything but. While they might have been given the appearance of a vintage car, they are mostly brand new replicas. Since, as we’ve mentioned before, Prague is a rather small town, it’s extremely easy to visit on foot and by only sticking to the main roads you’re going to miss so much of the magic.

Instead:

If you’re interested in learning about retro cars, head to the Trabant Museum. The Trabant was a car made in East Germany in the 1950s. The museum is small but full of interesting facts, tchotchkies and real cars from this short-lived era of auto manufacturing. Trabant enthusiasts from Prague loved racing these cars and their devotion to this model grew into the museum you see today.

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Don’t Eat at the Restaurants in or near Old Town Square

Old Town Square is one of the most beautiful parts of Prague. And so many of its buildings, statues and museums require your undivided attention. But what doesn’t are the subpar, kitschy and unremarkable restaurants which line the bottom floor of the square. These restaurants also charge about three times the price of meals you’d find in other restaurants well outside the Old Town Square and the waiters are usually pretty grumpy since they deal with tourists all day. 

Instead:

If you’re looking for a wonderful traditional meal, avoid any tourist centre. Look for menus with NO ENGLISH listed on the signs outside. I know this might sound intimidating but trust me, once you get inside they often do have one or two menus in English or the kind waiters will be more than happy to help you order the chef’s specialities. In establishments like this you’ll find better food, better prices and amazing service!

Don’t Overpay for Beer

Locally produced beer in Prague is wonderful, fresh and it SHOULD be cheap! If you find yourself at a restaurant paying over 4 euros for Pilsner Urquell, you’re overpaying. Urquell is a great benchmark for judging the fairness of the restaurant you’re dining at. Specialty microbrews will, of course, run you a little more but should never be over 6 Euros for a pint.

Instead:

If you’re looking to sample a fair few of Prague’s best beers, you should definitely visit the Prague Beer Museum. Don’t’ let the name fool you, it’s no museum. It basically a giant pub serving hundreds and hundreds of different brews. Knowledgeable servers and staff can help you find the best brew for your tastes at reasonable prices and a stunning environment!

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Don’t let these warnings scare you away from this incredible city. There is a reason so many people flock here. Prague is truly unrivalled in terms of beauty and character. And while there may be people who come here to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists, armed with this knowledge in advance, you’ll be no easy mark. You’ll be able to make your way across this marvelous city without a care in the world outside of saying, “I don’t want to leave.“

The post What NOT To Do on your Next Trip to Prague And Amazing Things to Do Instead! first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Dan decided on a dark stout but having had a few too many brews at the Brewery today; I opted to go with one of their amazing cocktails! The Finnieston was one of Glasgow’s first gin bars, so, of course, I had to sample one of their concoctions.

The restaurant was a beautiful blend of Glasgow’s iconic design. There were stained glass windows everywhere you looked along with various nautical elements that made for an incredible blending of artistic and a reflection on the Docklands where the seafood on offer had come from.

We sampled a little bit of everything from their menu. We tried their famous Cullen Skink soup (a thick Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions), locally raised steak with shrimp and even finished the meal off with a few desserts….or two.

The post Locally-Sourced Seafood at the Finnieston, Glasgow first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

1. Aston Lane

To start your visit to Glasgow’s West End, check out some of Scotland hippest shops and restaurants along the infamous Ashton Lane. Ashton Lane is a cobblestone backstreet in the West end lined with bars, restaurants and even a cinema. All of these places are housed in the old, brick houses that have stood on this street for ages. It’s iconic white painted brick houses with black roofs, and blackened cobblestones is a quintessential image of Glasgow and a must-stop spot for travellers. We stopped off at for the Grosvenor Cafe for a drink before settling on a place for lunch. We decided to grab a seat on the balcony to people watch. It was the perfect place for this. From up here you could see everyone coming and going below, and I imagined that at night it would be ever more a spectacle.

2. De Courcy’s Arcade

We continued down the lane and stopped in at a few vintage shops at De Courcy’s Arcade. There were so many things I wish I could have fit in my suitcase. I had my eye on an entire set of tea cups and saucers but knew; this would never make it back home in one piece. In the arcade, there were a few vintage shops along with a very sweet vintage tea room serving up some of the most delicious looking drinks we’d seen all day. But it was no time for cakes, well, not yet anyways.

3. Vintage Shopping

We stopped into a few more vintage shops on our way to our lunch destination. We ended up at ‘Starry Starry Night’ which was a delightful little store where specializing in pristine condition army jackets! They were a bit too heavy for our suitcase but if this has been our last destination we sure would have taken a few home for ourselves. I did buy a lovely embroidered piece of cloth. A tiny little souvenir of the store. There was an incredible amount of quality items here, and it turned out they were one of the stores that Downton Abbey frequented when looking for clothing for the show! We also stopped into ‘Ruthven Mews’. This little arcade which contained a few different vintage shops, some with fascinating specialisations. I poked around one store that was filled with old dishes and canisters. I found a very darling cookie tins and bought them for only a few bucks. They were perfect for travelling with as I used them to store my socks or small clothing!

5. Afternoon Tea at Kember & Jones

After shopping, we finally decided it was time to grab something to eat. We had our heart set on Kember & Jones, a delightful little bakery/cafe. Kember & Jones are popular for their local produce and in-house bakery.

We were dying for some a sweet and savoury meal so we opted to order their local cheese and charcuterie board along with a freshly baked scone with clotted cream and jam. It cream was like eating air, and the scone was heavenly fresh. One of the best I’d ever eaten. The cheese board was chock-o-block full of local cheese, fresh pate and homemade chutney. It was divine.

6. Used Book Shops

After filling our bellies to the point of bursting, we wandered through the street, stopping into all different shops on the way home. We stopped into on charity shop where I found a 1911 printing of Shakespeare’s Henry IV. It smelled wonderful; you know that old book smell that is beyond replication.

7. Oran Mor Pub

After a long walk, we stopped into the Oran Mor pub. The Oran Mor was a Kelvinside Parish Church was built in 1862 by J.J. Stevenson that has since been restored and turned into a bar, event and theatre space.

It was one of the coolest bars I’d even been to. The stained glass on the windows and the old wood on the floors were all original, and the place was brimming with history. Even the bar itself, which was a new installation felt lived in like it had been there for ages.

8. Glasgow Botanic Gardens

After having a drink in the pub, we headed off to the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. The gardens were created in 1817 and as such, the trees, flowers and even the building feel like it has been a part of the city for hundreds of years. When we arrived, the sun was out and shining, and the flowers in the garden simply glowed.

The most famous building in the gardens is the Kibble Palace. A 19th century wrought iron glasshouse. The building initially just an exhibition and concert venue but in the 1880’s it was turned into a greenhouse. For a city that doesn’t get the most warmth or sun, this place was an oasis for the people to visit when they needed a respite from the cold.

Inside the glass while the domed structure is bright green plants growing wild and yet restrained. Plants from all over the world have lived here for 120 years. We walked through the pathways like walking through a maze. Losing each other for moments and then seeing each other reappear around the bend. We sat down for a few minutes here and there to take a break from all the walking, and there wasn’t a perfect place to take a break.

9. The Hillhead Bookclub

After the gardens, and before heading home, we stopped off at the Hillhead Bookclub. The Book Club is a fun bar where patrons can play retro video games, ping-pong, board games and even order cocktails served up in a gramophone. Yes, you heard me right.

You can play Sonic the Hedgehog on old big box TVs, old gastronomic creations and play a myriad of old board games inside the dark and edgy interiors.

10. Old Salty’s

To finish off a tour of the West End of Glasgow, you need to end with Fish and Chips and ‘Old Salty’s’ is one of the best places to get it.

Don’t miss out on trying the macaroni pie. Whether you eat inside or get it for “take away” it’s the best way to end your day, or start it for that matter

The post A Complete Guide to Glasgow’s Trendy West End first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. History of Czech Cuisine
2. #1 Pivo! Pivo! And More Pivo!
3. #2 Chlebíčky
4. #3 Koláč
5. #4 Knödel
6. #5 Koleno
7. #6 Vepřo-knedlo-zelo
8. #7 Palačinky
9. #8 Sausages
10. #9 Pečená Kachna
11. #10 Svickova
    • A Note About Ttrdelník

History of Czech Cuisine

Czech cuisine has a rich and diverse history, reflecting the country’s central location and influences from neighbouring countries such as Germany and Austria. Traditional dishes are hearty and often feature meat, potatoes, and bread dumplings. Over the centuries, Czech cuisine has evolved to incorporate elements from other cultures, including Hungarian, Slovak, and Jewish. Despite these influences, Czech cuisine has maintained its unique identity. Offering visitors a delicious taste of the country’s history and heritage.

#1 Pivo! Pivo! And More Pivo!

You can’t visit Prague without sampling their beer. It’s honestly such a HUGE part of their culture and cuisine. Every bar has its unique homebrew and hundreds of other local varieties. You can get a GIANT pint for as little as $2 USD that will rival the rest of the world’s best beers. The most popular Pivo, as beer is called in Prague, is their traditional “Plzeň” (Pilsener). But there are more than 80 different kinds of local brews, so if you don’t like one brand, there are plenty more to choose from!

#2 Chlebíčky

Open-faced sandwiches are a staple the world over. But in Prague, they are a historic part of Czech life. In the communist years, many traditional sandwich staples were unavailable in Prague. Instead, Czech chefs made do with what they could. From this, they created greatness from even the most meagre ingredients. Fat was necessary to survive in the cold winters, so Chlebíčky sandwiches are filled with mayonnaise, herring paste, oily ham, and red salami and usually contain few vegetables. You can find Chlebíčkys at most delis or small cafes. Order a few varieties to create a spectacular assortment and share with a friend!

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#3 Koláč

Koláč was one of my favourite sweet treats. Koláč is a soft pastry filled with everything from poppy seeds to fruit, jams, nuts and even sugared cheese (basically cream cheese). They can be found in almost every bakery in Prague, and every family has their “secret” recipe, which makes their Koláč a little different from the one down the street. Poppy seed and sweet cheese was my personal preference.

#4 Knödel

Knödel is a traditional Czech dish made from boiled dumplings, typically served with various savoury sauces or stews. They are made from a mixture of flour, eggs, and salt, which is then shaped into balls and boiled until fully cooked. Knödel comes in various sizes and can be filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meats, or vegetables. This dish is a staple in Czech cuisine, offering a comforting and filling meal that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether served as a side dish or as the main course, Knödel is a must-try for anyone visiting Prague and looking to experience the local cuisine.

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#5 Koleno

Koleno, or roast pork knuckle, is another traditional German dish absorbed into Prague’s cuisine. The dish is made from an oversized piece of meat, cooked low and slow so the meat falls off the bone. The skin is crispy, and the meat is well seasoned with herbs. It is served alongside a tall, dark beer with mustard, horseradish, and sour cherries for dipping.

#6 Vepřo-knedlo-zelo

Vepřo-knedlo-zelo is another traditional pork dish. This slow-roasted pork is stewed with cabbage and served with sauerkraut and large bread dumplings to soak up all those well-flavoured juices.

#7 Palačinky

A sweet treat that can be found all over Prague is Palačinky. Palačinky is similar to French crepes, but the batter is slightly different. The thin pancakes are served with jam, fruit, cream or nuts. You can also find Palačinky with cheese, spinach, and pork if you’d prefer a savoury version.

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#8 Sausages

Czechs eat sausages morning, noon and night. They are great as a side dish or entree. Czech sausages are always heavy on garlic and have a much coarser grind than other sausages found worldwide. They are dark red and have a snappy bite to them. The best way to eat Czech sausages is simply served with only bread and mustard.

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#9 Pečená Kachna

Pečená Kachna, or roast duck, is something that Czech people often associate with holidays or special occasions. It is one of the more expensive meats in Prague, but for tourists, it is worth surging on no matter the occasion.

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#10 Svickova

One of the most traditional dishes. Don’t judge a book (or a meal) by its cover! Svickova is a braised beef sirloin served in a creamy sauce with cranberry compote and bread dumplings. The meat is so tender you don’t need a knife. The fatty beef mixed with the cream makes it a very decadent meal but worth a try for an authentic taste of Prague.

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A Note About Ttrdelník

Ok, now you might be wondering why I haven’t mentioned Ttrdelník.  Ttrdelník is a dessert found on the streets of Prague almost everywhere you go, and I’ve also seen it on many ‘top ten’ lists. But the truth is, this pastry, while sometimes delicious, isn’t traditionally Czech whatsoever! Even local guides will prompt it as a “traditional Czech dish.” But actually, a Hungarian recipe has been coopted by tourist trappers in busy areas around Prague. Touted as a “local specialty.” I had a chance to eat lots of these while in Budapest and can over achingly declare they are much more delicious. The ones in Prague tend to be overpriced, overcooked and overrated! So skip these desserts and head to a local Czech bakery instead! You’ll find you can get about three fresh desserts for just one Ttrdelník.

Czech cuisine offers a wealth of delicious and hearty dishes that should not be missed on your next trip to Prague. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply looking to try new things, give these top 10 Czech foods a try. Your taste buds will thank you! Don’t hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and try new dishes, as this is the best way to truly experience the local cuisine and culture.

Happy Eating, Adventurers!

The post The Best Things You Must Eat In Prague, an Insider Guide to Czech Cuisine first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.