Stephanie and I are huge fans of The Office (American version), so being that we were so close to Scranton, Pennsylvania – we had to go there. It was a totally unexpected beautiful city that’s not shown at all in the TV series. The city has an old fashioned colonial look to it. Its been a city since 1866 and still holds many historic landmarks and attractions that made the city so famous back then because of its iron and coal production.

If you’re looking to party, Scranton holds the second largest parade in the US for St. Patricks Day.

Photos: Scranton – The Electric City is a post from Art of Backpacking

ATV Riding

At Huana Coa, the ATV’s were monsters. Nothing stood in their way. We drove through the jungle riding over huge rocks, sand, and ponds that were at waist height. The scercy was beautiful as it changed dramatically from rocky hills to plain open fields. We even passed by a few locals on their own rides along the way. After about an hour of riding, we stopped by a colorful small town call La Noria. I thought it was awesome that somehow we went from riding through the jungle and then suddenly end up in a beautiful colorful town. The town was quiet, peaceful, and painted in a rainbow of colors.

Ziplining

One of the most popular activities in Mazatlan is ziplining at Huana Coa. There’s 9 lines and a 10 meter rappel that drops you nearly straight down at the end. The equipment is safe and the staff are well trained. There’s a professional photographer catching nearly every zip in different angles you can take home with you at the end. Apparently are there jaguars and tarantulas (a non-poisonous version) although none of us saw any. The lines pass through valleys with fantastic views from every angle. Not intensively fast but exciting nonetheless.

Horse Back Riding

I’ll admit that I’m really not into horse back riding (or horses at all for that matter) but Huana Coa does offer it for anyone interested. It’s relaxing and perhaps great for kids. I think it’s great that they do have the option of something less adventurous if the other two are too much.

Surfing

As the longest untouched beach in Mexico, there’s a whole lot of opportunity for surfers with good waves here.

Mazatlan is a great place for begineer surfers. There are areas with gental waves but strong enough to push you for a good ride and struggle to learn the basics of surfing. There’s plenty of shops in the city center to book lessons through.

If you’re a intermediate or advanced surfer, there’s plenty of awesome areas with good waves to catch. There’s a huge community of surfers in Mazatlan and plenty of shops to take you to all of the best spots. Search on Google for surfing Mazatlan and you’ll get a ton of results and recommendations.

You deserve a drink at the end of all this…

All Huana Coa tours include a tequila tour of Los Osuna. Learn the process of distilling tequila from the blue agave plants that has been in the Osuna family for more than 130 years. For a bonus, try the “to-kill-you” original version which has been distilled to over 100 then dilute it to reduce it’s strength. It hurts all the way through.

Bonus Activity You Can’t Do: Cliff Diving

Jump if you’d like but I can’t guarantee you’ll survive. Located right outside the golden zone are cliff divers risking their lives to provide entertainment and get tips. It’s a family run business and they’ve been cliff diving at this location for over three generations.

For 150pesos, I was about to watch a man jump from a 45-feet high platform, surrounded by rocks, jump into what looked like strong rapid waters. As he was standing up on the platform for several minutes, I was hoping I didn’t pay 150pesos to watch someone kill himself. He concentrated for awhile waiting for the perfect moment to jump as I stood there with my camera ready. He was about to jump into what is usually 5-feet of water deep or less and he had to jump far enough to not hit any of the rocks on the side of the platform. He jumped and his form was absolutely perfect. He made it seem too easy. He survived and thanked us for the tip. Definitely worth it.

Disclosure: I was invited by the Mexican Tourism Board to visit Mazatlan however all opinions are of my own.

Have you been to Mazatlan? What activities did you do there?

Adventures in Mazatlan, Mexico is a post from Art of Backpacking

Ice-skating is one of Canada’s favourite winter activity. Canada is among the pioneers of early skating rinks development. The first outdoor commercial rink in Canada was launched in Montreal in 1850. Hence, it is no surprise that Montreal has raised nearly 300 outdoor ice-skating rinks over the years.

Skating is a relatively inexpensive winter activity that is sure to spread smiles and induce lasting memories whether you are on a weekend ice-skating trip or a winter vacation in Montreal. Moreover, it allows you to keep the winter blues at bay.

Mentioned below is a list of the best outdoor skating rinks in Montreal. Visit these spectacular rinks with your friends and family to experience the sheer excitement of ice-skating in the scenic surroundings of Montreal.

Note that ice-skating season in Montreal is from December to March.

Refrigerated Rinks

Montreal has 2 refrigerated outdoor ice skating rinks that offer a pleasant skating experience. Both rinks are located in the picturesque Ville-Marie area, thus allowing you to enjoy scenic views while skating on ideal rinks.

Bonsecours Basin by manual crank

Bonsecours Basin

Bonsecours Basin skating rink is the first refrigerated outdoor rink in Montreal. It is located at the Old Port, right in the heart of Old Montreal. Bonsecours Basin is ideal for casual strollers and not the perfect spot for speed demons. Consider this rink if you wish to skate with your circle of friends and family, or even your date. However, you are required to pay admission fees even if you are carrying your own skates. Nevertheless, you can cherish the beauty of Old Montreal’s picturesque Rue de la Commune as you skate on delightful music.

• Location: Quays of the Old Port
• Admission: $6 for adults
• $4 for kids aged between 6 to 12
• Free for kids under 6
• Free admission on Saturdays after 5pm
• Family and Season passes are also available
• Timing: Monday to Wednesday – 10am to 9pm
• Thursday to Sunday – 10am to 10pm
• Skate Rental: Available
• Info: (514) 496-7678

Beaver Lake / Lac des Castors

This doughnut-shaped refrigerated rink is Montreal’s second artificially maintained outdoor skating rink. Situated on Mont Royal, Beaver Lake offers 2,500 square meters of smooth surface that is ideal for outdoor skating with family and kids. Peak hours are during weekends, when the rink is flooded with skaters. Speed skaters may be disappointed with the lack of movement during peak hours.

• Location: Mont Royal Park
• Admission: Free
• Timing: Sunday to Thursday – 9am to 9pm
• Friday to Saturday – 9am to 10pm
• Skate Rental: Available
• Info: (514) 843-8240 or (514) 280-8989

parc du Mont Royal - lac des Castors by abdallahh

Natural Rinks

Apart from the two artificially maintained rinks, Montreal has a generous proportion of natural rinks that offer free public access for ice skating. Have fun in the winter with your family and friends at these free ice skating rinks that also present a warm community feeling.

Parc La Fontaine

The distinctive long and winding ice paths make Parc La Fontaine a hotspot for freestyle skating. If you prefer to play pond hockey or just skates in circles, the park also includes two giant oblong-shaped outdoor skating arenas. In this manner, it is the perfect rink for just about everyone, from a group of friends playing hockey to a family looking to skate in leisure and fun, or even couples who wish to spark some romance in the glittering ice streams.

• Location: 3819 Calixa-Lavallée Avenue
• Admission: Free
• Timing: Monday to Friday – 11am to 10pm
• Saturday to Sunday – 10am to 10pm
• Skate Rental: Available
• Info: (514) 872-6381

Jeanne-Mance Park

Located in close proximity to Plateau Mont-Royal, Jeanne-Mance Park is another great spot for outdoor ice-skating in Montreal. It is less crowded compared to Beaver Lake and easily accessible by public transportation. However, make sure that you are fully equipped with your own ice skates because there is no skate rental service at this public rink.

Ice skating and saluhall by kalleboo

Other Popular Outdoor Skating Rinks in Montreal

• Lasalle Park in Lachine
• Duff Court Park in Lachine
• Saint-Viateur Park in Outremont
• Maisonneuve Park in Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie
• Parc Angrignon in LaSalle

Visit these impressive and fun-filled outdoor ice-skating rinks in Montreal and participate in a winter activity that holds a glorious history of more than 150 years. Last but not the least, before heading out to your chosen rink, remember to call the rink to check if ice condition is good to skate.

A Guide to the Best Outdoor Ice-Skating Rinks in Montreal, Canada is a post from Art of Backpacking

Arguably one of the most scenic spots in all of California is tucked away on the most north-western part of San Francisco is called “Land’s End” because that is literally the spot where all of land ends and the great Pacific Ocean begins. Travelers visiting San Francisco often go for the main attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf with local seafood, or the historic cable cars, but as someone who has lived in San Francisco for over 15 years, whenever someone from out of town visits me while traveling, I always take them to Land’s End.

Golden Gate Bridge by Alex Genadinik

Land’s End is a nationally preserved area with a few miles of hiking trails, a golf course, and an art and sculpture museum called the Palace of Legion of Honor. There is about an hour an half of great hiking trails, nearly all of which are on top of a cliffs along the Pacific Ocean. The cliffs offer visitors surreal vistas into the depths of the Pacific Ocean to the West, the historic Golden Gate Bridge to the east, and Marin to the north, all while having foamy waves crash against the rocks of the cliffs about a hundred feet below. Do not forget that San Francisco is known for its fog, so try to pick a clear day to visit Land’s End or you will get beautiful vistas of nothing but fog in every direction.

Cliffs at Land's End by Alex Genadinik

There are a few ascents and descents along the way, but the terrain isn’t harsh. The hike can be tiring enough to make the visitors want some rest after the trails are over. People who still have energy after hiking should definitely visit the Palace of Legion of Honor which is the museum right inside the National Park. The museum features masterworks from the 14th through the 20th centuries by artists like Rubens, Rembrandt, Watteau, Gainsborough, Monet, Bouguereau, Matisse, and Picasso.

The hike and the museum together sum up to a few hours of standing and walking on your feet, and can be pretty tiring. Nevertheless, it is a great way to experience one of the hidden gems of San Francisco tucked away far from many of the main tourist attractions.

The Scenic Land’s End National Preserve In San Francisco is a post from Art of Backpacking

Fall and Winter, with their chilly days, are perfect for hot and hearty soups. But if you’re in New York City, why settle for chicken noodle when you could be transported to another culture entirely, via a wonderfully fragrant rendition of one of its classic soups? Each of these soups is practically a meal in itself, and I also suggest a few favorite accompaniments. So grab a soup-loving (or simply shivering) friend, and head to one of these four picks:

Vietnamese pho at Pho Bang

Pho at Pho Bang by TravelSort

If you’ve never had Vietnamese pho but love fragrant soup broths, rice noodles and basil, you’re in for a treat.  Pho is a Vietnamese staple, often eaten for breakfast or lunch, with a carefully simmered beef broth lightly spiced with ginger, anise, cloves, and cinnamon. Unless you’re  adventurous with your meat (tendon and navel, anyone?), I recommend Pho Tai, which comes with very thin slices of eye of round atop rice noodles in steaming hot broth. A small platter of beansprouts, Vietnamese basil and lime is served alongside. Put any or all of these in to taste (tear up the basil to release its flavor), and also help yourself to Sriracha hot sauce and hoisin sauce. Although some diners just squirt these into the soup, purists prefer to just squeeze small amounts on the meat and noodles they’ve picked up with their chopsticks, so as not to spoil the balance of the broth. While even a medium bowl will sate most appetites, there’s an extra large option, plus a variety of bun (rice noodle) dishes topped with fresh herbs and grilled meat to enjoy in warmer weather. Best of all, your hearty bowl of pho won’t cost more than $7-8, including tax and tip.

Pho Bang
157 Mott Street, between Grand and Broome
NY, NY
(212) 966-3797
Open daily 10am-10pm

Russian borscht at Mari Vanna

Borscht at Mari Vanna by TravelSort

I know, the word borscht may make you think of long lines of grim-faced babushkas under Communism, or possibly the (awful/scary/depressing) headlines about Russia. Try your best to dispel these as you enter the cozy world of Mari Vanna, a Russian restaurant with all kinds of nostalgic memorabilia from both pre-revolutionary and Soviet era Russia. Evenings here buzz with well-heeled Russians quaffing the infused vodkas and nibbling zakusky (appetizers), so for a more leisurely experience come for lunch and just order the borscht, served with smetana (sour cream) to swirl into the magenta-hued broth. With loads of shredded beets and carrots and pieces of meltingly tender beef, it’s the perfect one-dish meal for a blustery day. Not cheap, at $12, but very worth it. If you’re especially hungry, there’s also a $24 prix fixe lunch option that includes the borscht as an appetizer, plus an entrée, such as Pelmeni (Russian veal dumplings). And if you’re there with a friend or two, split an order of the khachipuri, a Georgian savory pizza-like pie made with melted Georgian sulguni cheese.  Baked to order, it takes about 30 minutes, so order it right away. (Editors Note: I’m told this is actually a Ukrainian dish.)

Mari Vanna
41 East 20th Street
NY, NY
(212) 777-1955
Open daily for lunch 12pm-3pm and dinner 5pm-11pm
Sunday brunch 12pm-6pm

Lagman at Taam Tov

Lagman at Taam Tov by TravelSort

What kind of soups are traditional to the Central Asian Republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan? Not sure? Head to Taam Tov in the diamond district for lagman, a beef and vegetable noodle soup. Although Taam Tov’s version isn’t anywhere near  as spicy as the versions I’ve had in Kyrgyzstan, that could be to your benefit if you’re not too fond of spicy food. And if you are, never fear—the two kinds of chili sauces on each table will help you make it as spicy as you wish. Alongside the soup ($5), order lepeshka ($2.50), a puffy bread baked in the Central Asian version of a tandoor oven, and also try samsa ($2.50), a little baked meat pie. Interestingly, given its Central Asian food, Taam Tov is a Bukharian Jewish (and Glatt Kosher) restaurant. Since the younger generation speaks Russian I’ve always ordered in Russian here, although of course they speak English as well. Note that as the Jewish Sabbath commences at sundown on Friday, the restaurant has a variable closing time on Fridays: two hours before sundown.

Taam Tov
41 West 47th Street, 3rd Floor
NY, NY
(212) 768-8001
Open Monday-Thursday 10am-9pm and Friday 10am-2 hours before Sabbath
Closed Saturday and Sunday

Tom Kha Gai at SriPraPhai

Tom Kha Gai at Sripraphai in Woodside by TravelSort

Craving Thai food? Get thee to SriPraPhai in Woodside, Queens for a big, satisfying bowl of Tom Kha Gai, chicken coconut soup. The soup’s name is literally translated as “boiled galangal chicken” and galangal, a woodsy Thai herb similar to ginger yet with a more earthy and citrus flavor, together with lemongrass and lime juice, give this coconut chicken soup its unique flavor. Unless you’re a chili fiend, do watch out for the small roasted whole chilis in the broth. A large bowl of Tom Kha Gai ($8.50) is a meal unto itself, but if you’re with a group, also order some of Sripraphai’s many other stellar dishes: softshell crab with green mango salad, panang curry with duck, crispy pork belly with chili and basil and whole fried or steamed fish.

SriPraPhai
64-13 39th Avenue
Woodside, NY
(718) 899-9599
Open 11:30am – 9:30pm daily except Wednesdays

So there you have it—there’s probably at least one soup on this list that you haven’t tried yet, and you’re not going to find these at your nearest Hale and Hearty. Enjoy some of my favorite soups, and tell me about yours in the comments.

Four NYC Must-Try Spots for Soup Lovers is a post from Art of Backpacking

It’s been nearly a month since the Travel Blog Exchange Conference was held in New York City and people are still talking (and recovering?) about it. It was more than just the conference and we’ve even highlighted that the top things TBEX attendes love besides TBEX.  Cailin O’Neil shows a glimpse of how good we had it in New York City.

Cailin O’Neil of Travel Yourself explores the city that never sleeps. In New York for the Travel Bloggers Exchange Conference (tbex10), she parties with fellow travelers, tweeters and explores some of the top tourist attractions.

Film Feature: Travel Yourself – New York for #TBEX is a post from Art of Backpacking

There are few places in the world more breathtaking and naturally beautiful than Banff, Canada. Nestled in the picturesque Canadian Rockies, this town is home to some of the best tourist attractions in North America, including the Banff National Park, a World Heritage Site since 1985. One of the best things about this amazing town is that there is so much to do and see year round that costs so little. If you are ready to travel someplace familiar and yet completely wondrous, then you need to know the seven reasons Banff is a backpacker’s dream destination!

Archeological Sites

Crowfoot Mountain and Bow Lake, Banff National Park, Canada, 1999 by .JL.

The Banff area has been inhabited by humans for over ten thousand years. According to the Canadian National Parks organization, almost eight hundred unique archaeological sites have been uncovered, from those used by previous generations to those used by aboriginal peoples thousands of years ago. These sites are located throughout the Banff area and are a great way to not only enjoy the fabulous natural beauty of the region but also to learn something new about our shared human story. Oh, and these sites are all free, which makes them even more exciting!

Hiking Opportunities

A Hike in Banff by maskedbacon

Like most of the Rockies, Banff is full of awesome places to go hiking. Whether you prefer a gentle mountain slope or a challenging cliff face, the mountains around Banff have you covered with almost two thousand kilometers of hiking trails. Most of the trailheads are located in the Bow Valley area and fan out to some exquisite hidden vistas, including glaciers, summits, and lakes. Just pay for some snacks and hit the trail – you can’t get much more budget friendly than that!

The Banff Gondola

Banff Gondolas by yelovet00

Got fifty bucks? Then you have all you need to experience one of the most incredible tourist attractions Banff has to offer: The Banff Gondola. The gondola offers amazing views of six mountain ranges in the Banff area. The gondola climbs almost 2,300 feet to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, where more history and attractions await.

The Glaciers

rocky mountain glacier , banff, canada, BC,HDR by bigmingming

If you have never seen a glacier, then you can’t miss your opportunity to get up close and personal with them (who knows, in 20 years they may all be gone!). Banff is right in the middle of an area rich in both glaciers and ice fields, and provides easy access to these powerful forces of nature. Different trailheads lead right to vistas where you can observe the slow moving strength of the ice as it carves its way through the mountains. Another free activity that is a must-see!

Lake Louise

Lake Louise in Banff by no body atoll

Lake Louise is the highest point in Canada. It is a glacial lake that is known for its distinctive emerald color, the result of rock flour in the water. Lake Louise has an almost glass-like finish to it and most days carries a perfect reflection of the Alberta sky. Just a short bus ride from Banff, this lake is one of this country’s absolute treasures and shouldn’t be missed. There are many hiking trails located around the lake; other popular and inexpensive activities include canoeing and horseback riding.

Banff truly stands as one of the most impressive natural settings in North America. It offers the discerning and budget-conscious traveler hundreds of options for entertainment, relaxation, and enjoyment, not to mention crisp mountain air and abundant, bright sunshine. A word to the wise for future Banff travelers: don’t let the snow fool you! The region’s high altitude and angle toward the sun makes sunscreen a must year round – don’t get caught without it!

Happy backpacking!

5 Reasons Banff Is a Backpacker’s Dream Destination is a post from Art of Backpacking

Las Vegas, Nevada; known for it’s neon filled city, glamor, luxury, casinos, and where anything goes. It’s not exactly the cheapest nor most cultural part of the United States however did you know they have some spectacular hiking trails outside of the city? It’s usually not the first thing we think of when we hear Las Vegas. There’s more to Las Vegas then it’s famous strip. This is a great way to get away from the blue neon lights and experience the real blue of the skies.

Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail

Great over look of Lake Mead. Pass through the many tunnels and scenic overlooks this trail has to offer and you’ll forget were you’re anywhere near Las Vegas. The tunnels have been restored by the National Park Service, are 25 feet high, and provide cool damp shade against the hot desert sun.

Lake Mead national recreation area outside Las Vegas Nevada by Wouter Kiel

Mary Jane Falls

At a steep climb of 900ft in just 2 miles, it’s a climb toward an amazing view for nearly the entire trail and wonderful waterfalls all for just a short distance. It’s a popular hike so expect seeing other people. Best time to see the waterfalls are in the Spring as the snow melts.

Mary Jane Falls Trailhead by Timeflies1980

Gass Peak

It’s got it all. Views of Las Vegas, Sheep Mountains, Las Vegas Range, and the Spring Mountains Range. The hike can bit a bit difficult but worth it in the end for the spectacle views. One of the best hikes around the Las Vegas area.

Gass Peak shoot 2 by cammyjams

So there’s plenty more to do then just gamble and party all night. Take a break from drinking for an afternoon and take in some sun… Then at night, party on!

What have you done outside of Las Vegas? The obvious is the Grand Canyon, but what else?

The following post has been sponsored to help continue pay the bills and bring you more awesome content.

Las Vegas: Outside Of The Strip With Your Backpack is a post from Art of Backpacking

We’ve told you about the 2009 dance parade and we’ve even reviewed it, it’s that time of the year again to give it to you again for 2010. Each year they continue to expand but still hold the same vision.

to promote dance as an expressive and unifying art form by
showcasing all forms of dance, educating the general public
about the opportunities to experience dance, and celebrating
diversity of dance in New York City by sponsoring a yearly
city-wide dance parade and dance festival.

I’m excited as always for this event. People get very creative with their dances and floats. Thousands will dance on the streets of New York City. I’ll be there filming and taking pictures as always so if you’d like to meet up, be sure to let me know.

NYC Dance Parade 2008 by shadowmyst25

When? May 22nd, 2010 starting at 1:00pm
Where? There is a route they’re following, click here for the full route.

One parade, many cultures.

New York Dance Parade 2010 is a post from Art of Backpacking

Our good friends at Off Track Planet hit a huge mile stone and is publishing the first printed independent travel lifestyle magazine this summer. I’m vouching for them on this one. I’ve had a preview of the magazine and I must say I was quite impressed. We don’t really have anything else like this in the United States. You’d figured being in New York City that we’d have several of these types of magazines floating around (like Sydney does) but for some reason we don’t and I’m glad Off Track Planet were the ones to get it started.

If you’ve read their blog, then their first issue should come to no surprise on what their featuring for their first issue.

The magazine will feature a “Backpacker’s Travel Guide to NYC 2010” with hostel reviews including “where to get drunk, party, have sex and eat on a budget in NYC”. NYC’s local art, music, fashion, sub-cultures and volunteer/work/study/internship opportunities will also be covered.

The Off Track Planet magazine is set to be released on June 15th, 2010. It’ll be distributed throughout NYC, Washington D.C., Boston and Philadelphia so keep a look out for these.

Off Track Planet Publishing The First Printed Independent Travel Lifestyles Magazine is a post from Art of Backpacking