Blog - Wanderboomer

BY Nancy Mueller Leave a Comment ON January 28, 2021

Visit California Safely and Responsibly

A year ago this week I was enjoying the energy of New York City, catching up with travel pals and destination organizations at the New York Times Travel Show. Unfortunately, the show organizers have cancelled this year’s show due to current constraints related to COVID-19. So instead I’m joining a three-day Virtual International Media Marketplace (IMM) North America event. While we may not yet be able to drink as deeply from the travel well as we desire, we can still dream about and plan for our future travels right now.

Safe and Responsible Travel

The Lyons Steps in San Francisco — View from Lyons Steps in San Francisco @Nancy Mueller Photo

Any good traveler knows the value of familiarizing oneself with local guidelines and regulations as a matter of showing respect for the destination and its residents. From San Francisco to Ojai, from the Central Coast to Palm Springs, Visit California, a sponsor of the 2021 Virtual IMM gathering, invites visitors to read and follow the state’s Travel Code, “How to Travel Responsibly.” Together, these seven principles define R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Roam Responsibly, Educate Myself, Safety First, Preserve California, Embrace Community, Celebrate Culture, and Teach Others. For a detailed description of the guidelines, check out the Visit California website.

Joshua National Park @Nancy Mueller Photo

As COVID restrictions ease in the months ahead, visitors can expect safety protocols like social distancing to continue but vary depending on local conditions.

What’s New

Caroline Beteta, President & CEO of the non-profit organization, says California has used this travel downtime to not only implement new safety guidelines but to improve visitor experiences as well. A number of new attractions have opened as well as new hotels in Napa, Annaheim, and Oceanside in the last year. In the spirit of “resilience and ingenuity,” there has been a surge in outdoor experiences, ski resorts have gained in popularity, and travel operators have packaged specialty tours, like private or small group bikes and hikes, gondola rides, surf lessons, wine tastings, and even helicopter tours.

What Hasn’t Changed

Joshua National Park, CA @Nancy Mueller Photo

While California experienced its worst fire season on record in 2020, a loss of roughly 4 million acres, the total represents but 4% of the state’s forests, according to Beteta. Wine is grown over the entire state, with the majority of vineyards untouched by the wildfires. As a result, the visitor experience remains largely intact.

Wander on!

Where are your travel dreams taking you, wanderboomers?

BY Nancy Mueller 2 Comments ON June 9, 2020

At the Helm Boutique Luxury Hotel & Pub

At the Helm Boutique Luxury Hotel & Pub

Looking for a boutique luxury hotel experience after months of pandemic sheltering in place? Consider a coastal getaway to At the Helm Hotel & Pub on the Long Beach Peninsula in southwest Washington.

Location

Views of Marina and Working Waterfront

The hotel’s serene, scenic setting on the Port of Ilwaco’s marina and working waterfront provides just the right respite for reflection and relaxation. Stroll the waterfront or the Long Beach Boardwalk, walk barefoot on the beach, or go beachcombing for seaside treasures. Enjoy leisurely excursions to Cape Disappointment (which is anything but), hike nearby nature trails, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge.

Cape Disappointment

Highlights

At the Helm Hotel Features Reclaimed Old-Growth Lumber

Once the site of ShoreBank Pacific, At the Helm Hotel & Pub opened for business in its current incarnation in June 2019. Owner/operator, Marcene Miller not only spearheaded the building’s renovation as the general contractor; she also “designed, scraped, and painted” the hotel interior to manifest her vision of an upscale guest experience in the tranquil fishing village.

Fish Art Installation Underneath Staircase

With its use of reclaimed old-growth lumber and fir beams from neighboring Astoria, Oregon, the colorful three-story building features plenty of eye-catching, eco-friendly touches. The hotel’s nautical theme woven throughout the premises is a nod to the Miller family’s 39-year-history in commercial fishing.

Owner/Operator Marcene Miller

Any tension from a long road trip disappears the moment you walk through the door to At the Helm Hotel & Pub. It’s always nice to be warmly welcomed upon arrival at a beautiful destination. When that welcome is followed by your choice of a glass of wine or beer as it is at this boutique luxury hotel, even better!

Rooms

Deluxe King Room

Deluxe King Room with Suite

Settle in at the Waterline Pub to enjoy your drink or head for the comfort of your own room. No elevator is available, but no worries. Just ask for assistance if you need help getting luggage to your room.

At the Helm Hotel Room

Each of the nine beautifully-appointed rooms is named after fishing vessels like “Blazer,” “Elena N” and “Tri-umph” that the family has owned over those 39 years. Rooms range in size from 300 – 550 square feet with non-views, port views, and partial port views available on one of two floors. An ADA Accessible room is available on the first floor.

Heated floors, eco-friendly fireplaces, complimentary snacks, and cozy robes are among the room amenities. Nest bath products and an Englunder mattress with premium linens add to the luxurious accommodations.

Breakfast At the Helm Hotel

For breakfast, guests can select locally-sourced items like a croissant with Brie, bagel and salmon spread, or plain Greek yogurt with granola and raw honey drizzle, each served with fresh fruit. Ask for room delivery or enjoy your morning meal in the cozy, light-filled pub. For an additional fee, spring for a mimosa or beer to quench your thirst.

Dining

Dining At the Waterline Pub

What’s better than fine dining in an intimate setting with a laid-back ambiance? At the Helm Hotel & Pub delivers on all three counts. As you might expect and hope with a coastal dining experience, the focus here is on fresh seasonal seafood. With small plates selections such as lemon garlic prawns or calamari, together with main meals of pan-friend Willapa Bay oysters, 8-oz. rib-eye, or a Helm Burger, guests have plenty of options for a weekend or weeklong hotel stay.

Room Rates

Like most hotels, room rates vary with the season and day or week. Check the website for details.

Why Go Now

Recently re-opened after the last few months of lockdown due to Covid-19, At the Helm Hotel & Pub is offering two special packages: a weekend getaway package, book one night and get the second night half-off, and a mid-week getaway package, Monday – Thursday, book two nights and get the third night free.

To ensure guest safety and peace of mind, At the Helm Hotel & Pub offers spacious accommodations with dining in the privacy of your room, in the pub or outside.

Getting There

The hotel is about a three-hour drive from Seattle and a two-hour drive from Portland.

Guidelines on Responsible Visiting

Thanks to my hosts, At the Helm Hotel & Pub and Visit Long Beach Peninsula, for the chance to experience the beauty and hospitality of the Long Beach Peninsula!

BY Nancy Mueller Leave a Comment ON February 8, 2020

Reimagined Seattle Asian Art Museum Reopens

LED-Light Canopy Designed by Seattle-born Artist Kenzan Tsutakawa-Chin Welcomes Visitors

Asian art lovers, rejoice! This weekend, February 8th and 9th, marks the Grand Reopening of Seattle Asian Art Museum, “Reimagined. Revitalized. Reinstalled.” After nearly three years of renovation, the historic 1933 Art Deco building looks like its former self, only better – well-rested and rejuvenated, just like any of us who have enjoyed a long wellness sabbatical.

Overview of New Seattle Asian Art Museum

Glass-Enclosed Park Lobby

Under the direction of LMN Architects, the museum has been retrofitted for seismic activity, climate-controlled, cleaned and scrubbed, and expanded to enhance its connection both within the park and the greater community at large. In short, the update is stunning.

In addition to the infrastructure renovations (mechanical and environmental systems), visitors will discover a new thematic approach to the artwork collection within the only free-standing museum devoted exclusively to Asian art in the U.S. Rather than organizing the galleries geographically or chronologically, the exhibits display a cross-cultural sensibility.

Main Renovations

Beyond the significant infrastructure renovations, the beautiful art deco facade has been restored to its former glory. In a respectful nod to the past, the architects have replaced the tinted glass in the entryway by clear glass as had been designed originally. And while new flooring and new auditorium seating have been installed, each reflects the style of the original design. Also, exterior pathways designed by the famed Olmsted brothers have been restored as have three original fountains (two exterior, one interior).

What’s New

Expanded Space in Park Lobby Creates Visual Connection with Volunteer Park

Though visitors won’t discover the addition of an on-site cafeteria or expanded gift shop as part of the new development, there are plenty of other surprises.

On the east side of the building, the new 1,247-square-foot, floor-to-ceiling glass-enclosed park lobby immerses the visitor not only in the artwork on display but in the surrounding nature outside. In the Fuller Garden Court, two new portals that open onto the park lobby have been added. A new art elevator and receiving/loading dock allows the facility to showcase larger art forms that previously were limited

Staggered Seating Enhances Sight Lines

Downstairs a new multi-purpose glass-enclosed 2,650-square-foot gallery anchors the expanded space. Adjacent to the gallery, for the first time in the museum’s history, a dedicated educational studio provides opportunities for students to engage with, and learn from, visiting artists. “Take a good look,” says Regan Pro, Director for Education and Public Programs. “Once the students get in here, it will never be this quiet or this clean again, and that’s glorious.”

Rounding out the Seattle Asian Art Museum’s downstairs venues is a new community meeting room, plus a conservation center with space for mounting fragile scrolls. For best tips on preserving and hanging scrolls, check out this article on the museum website.

The Asian Art Collection

The Seattle Asian Museum collection highlights artworks across Asia, with a strong foundation in Japanese and Chinese art, thanks to founder Dr. Richard E. Fuller. But visitors can also explore Korea, India, and Southeast Asia through the art objects on display. As Xiaojin Wu, Curator of Japanese and Korean Art explains the intent behind Boundless, the new thematic organization: “We always kept the visitor in mind, looking for ways to ignite questions and spark wonder.”

Visitors can explore stories of spiritual traditions, the natural world, precious objects, and the afterlife, among others, within 13 distinct galleries.

Here are a few selected images that captured my imagination:

Colored Vases by Artist Ai Weiwei

Flower Ball by Artist Takashi Murakami

Green Waves by Artist Tsuji Kako

For more information, visit Seattle Asian Art Museum.

You might also enjoy the following posts about previous exhibits at the Seattle Art Museum:

Jacob Lawrence Migration Series

Gaugin Pays a Visit to Seattle

BY Nancy Mueller Leave a Comment ON September 10, 2019

Cider Summit Seattle Kicks Off WA Cider Week

Cider Summit Seattle

Cider Summit Seattle kicked off WA Cider Week, a 10-day festival featuring 70+ events, this past weekend.

For this 10th annual celebration of artisanal ciders from around the world, ticket holders wandered the grounds of South Lake Union, the venue’s new home across from MOHAI, while enjoying tastings from among the 180 + ciders on display.

Cider Summit Seattle’s Coming of Age

South Lake Union Park – Site of the 10th Annual Cider Summit Seattle

Each Fall legions of hard cider fans look forward to Cider Summit Seattle for several reasons: connecting with local producers, sampling seasonal flavors, and learning the history behind local and international favorites. Plus, the musical artist performances on hand make for a fun, festive event.

If you’re still new to the Northwest cider craze, Cider Summit Seattle and WA Cider Week present an easy way to discover your own personal cider style. Do you lean towards modern or heritage ciders? French or more towards English? Fruit or hopped? Spiced, sour or barrel-aged flavors? You won’t know unless you give ciders a try.

Ready to discover a few fan-favorite cider producers and importers? Discover what sets these artisan craft cidermakers apart.

Avid Cider Co.

Vendor Tents at Cider Summit Seattle

Family-owned Avid Cider Co. is on a mission to produce sustainably-sourced hard cider using local ingredients that balance sweet, dry and tart flavor profiles. Based in Bend, Oregon, the company recently opened a taproom in Portland to showcase its ciders that are “100% fermented from NW fruit.”

Besides its signature Organic Dry Cider, Avid creates fruit-forward flavors that include Blackberry (a blend of blackberries and black currants), Apricot, Vanilla Bean Pear, and Watermelon Rhubarb, among others. Avid’s Dragonfruit Cider, is a standout with a combination of NW apples, raspberries, and dragonfruit. Be forewarned when tasting, though, as its description states: “Side effects might include breathing fire and other unknowns.” That should get your date’s attention.

Avid Ciders ABV (“Alcohol by Volume”) range from 5.8% – 6.2%.

Beauchamp Imports (French Cider)

La Chouette, The French Cider

What distinguishes French ciders from other artisanal ciders around the world? Just ask Joan Harkins, Chief Cider/Calvados Enthusiast of French Cider, Inc. Through her company, Beauchamp Imports, Inc. Joan imports apple- and pear-based ciders from the Normandy, Brittany, and Basque regions of France.

With its relatively low alcohol content, typically 3 – 7%, French cider serves as an ideal complement to a variety of food pairings and dining occasions, day or night, says Harkins.

For Cider Summit Seattle, attendees sampled a Basque cider, La Chouette, from the small region covering southern France and Northern Spain. The light-colored demi-sec offers a balanced blend of sweet and sour flavors unlike many Basque ciders that tend towards a more tart flavor.

Other offerings included AOC-certified Hérout à Auvers Pommeau de Normandie and Calvados (distilled cider aged in oak barrels). To receive the prestigious AOC distinction, producers must adhere to strict quality methods as defined by the French government.

For more information visit French Cider.

Schilling Hard Cider

Schilling Hard Cider

Defining its ciders as “innovative” and “bold,” Schilling Hard Cider makes its home in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood and Goat Blocks in Portland. The company proudly provides handcrafted ciders that are 100% fresh-pressed apples and locally-sourced ingredients. Schilling also offers “the highest ABV cider available in a 6-pack in the nation” with its Excelsior at 8.5% ABV.

To meet the 2019 Oregon Fruit Cider Challenge at Cider Summit Seattle, the cider house presented Imperial Guava Mint, a velvety coral-colored concoction that tasted like a smoothie. Also on hand? Schilling’s most popular cider, Grapefruit Chill, a tart and refreshing thirst-quencher for a warm, sunny day.

Interested in learning how to create your own craft cider? Schilling is offering a cider-making class at each of its two locations, coming right up on 9/14 in Portland and on 9/28 in Seattle.

Learn more at Schilling Hard Cider.

Finn River Farm & Cidery

Finn River Cider

Finn River’s success tells a story of collaboration among farmers, fermenters, and good neighbors. Great timing and ripe apples, of course, also have something to do with the company’s growth since its start in 2008. Under the partnership of Eric Jorgensen and Keith and Crystie Kisler, Finn River offers orchard tours & tastings, and counter, seated, and deaf-friendly tastings in the summer months at their farm on the Olympic Penninsula.

At Finn River, inspiration comes from cider heritage traditions, the lure of the land, and the abundant possibilities of the fermented apple.

Two fan favorites for Cider Summit Seattle included its just-released seasonal Forest Ginger, an aromatic botanical cider showcasing the flavors of forest fir trees and ginger spice. Also on hand, a contemporary Habanero Cider offered just the right mix of chili heat and tart apple.

To view its full selection of craft ciders, visit Finn River Farm & Cidery.

Seattle Cider Company

Seattle Cider Company

Strawberry Guava, Spiced Peach, and Cider Summit Reserve were on full display at Seattle Cider Company’s tent. Besides its current billing as Washington State’s largest cider producer, the company’s claim to fame includes recognition as Seattle’s first cidery after prohibition.

The company’s goal of reducing the emphasis on excessively sweet ciders focuses on the natural flavor of Washington State apples instead. From its first offerings of Dry and Semi-sweet hard ciders, the company’s year-round inventory now boasts Tangerine Tumeric and Basil Mint flavors as well.

Fall highlights seasonal ciders like Pumpkin Spice and Oaked Maple while the limited Three Pepper Hard Cider is only available at The Woods Tasting Room. Located in Seattle’s industrial SoDo District, the company shares the site with Two Beers Brewing.

For a graphic on their 5-step Cider Making Process, visit Seattle Cider Company.

Portland Cider Company

Portland Cider Company

I stopped by the Portland stand and asked if there was any friendly rivalry between Seattle and Portland cideries. At the Portland table, they said, “Nah. It’s all pretty friendly. But the Portland ciders are better.” Large laughs followed.

After sampling the Hop’Rageous, we agreed that the cider “pulls the notes off the hops but doesn’t smack you in the head with hop flavor.” Brand new and seasonal, the company entered Pach Berry as their contender in the 2019 Oregon Fruit Cider Challenge.

Founders Jeff and Lynda Parrish started Portland Cider Company in 2012, blending English and Northwest cider traditions and techniques. Since then, their award-winning ciders have popped up in venues throughout the Northwest. Perennial favorites include their flagship ciders, Kinda Dry and Sorta Sweet.

Visit Portland Cider Company for more information.

Tieton Cider Works

Tieton Cider Works

Tieton (pronounced “tie – ton”) Cider Works began at Craig and Sharon Campbell’s Harmony Orchard, home to 55 acres of cider apple varieties and Perry pears in the Yakima Valley. Core, Specialty, and Limited Releases make up the couple’s cider inventory.

One notable release comes with a rich backstory. Once on the brink of extinction, the Harrison apple today enjoys a resurgence in Tieton’s Single Varietal Harrison Cider. Sales and marketing reps., Brian Coyle and Jenna Hyppa, shared the fascinating facts behind the Harrison’s illustrious East Coast heritage. Popular before and after the American Revolutionary War, the apple was thought to be lost before a fruit historian discovered two remaining trees in New Jersey in 1976. Since then, the Harrison apple has once again become a popular cider apple.

Tieton’s choice, a golden-colored cider in a blend of spiced apple and honey with a hint of ginger offered a fitting finish to this sunny day at the 10th Annual Cider Summit Seattle.

Visit Tieton Cider Works for more information.

Wander on!

What’s your cider style, wanderboomers?

BY Nancy Mueller Leave a Comment ON September 6, 2019

Escape to Camano Island, The Easy Island

Cama Beach

Introduction

If your weekend getaway to Whidbey Island left you wanting more downtime, why not continue your adventure with an escape to Camano Island, “The Easy Island?”

Located to the east of Whidbey, smaller Camano Island is home to nearly 16,000 residents year-round. With no ferry service available across Saratoga Passage between the two islands, visitors access the coastal community via I-5, exit 212, first passing through the town of Stanwood before reaching Camano.

Still a relatively undiscovered destination, even to Washingtonians, Camano Island offers timeless beauty, simplicity, and a laid-back vibe. But don’t worry. You’ll still have plenty of venues for adventure if that’s more to your liking.

What’s your travel style for a fun escape to Camano Island, “The Easy Island?”

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Guide Matt Cunningham with AdventureTerra

AdventureTerra

To set the mood for your explorations on Camano, why not get up close and personal with an old-growth forest first before leaving Whidbey Island? AdventureTerra leads small group tree-climbing tours of 6 – 8 people that can take you 200′ off the ground into the heart of an old-growth forest.

For the last 8 years, owner/founder Leo Fischer has shared his enthusiasm for recreational tree climbing (also known as canopy climbing) in half-day tours, sunset climbs, and three-day programs. Fun and safety are top priorities, of course, but as Fischer explains, “You’ll also learn about ecology and forest prevention in addition to tree-climbing skills.”

Fischer also believes that “Tree climbing is a great way to get over a fear of heights. Our guide will climb right alongside side you every step of the way.” And if you require additional assistance, your guides will help you out with a pulley system designed to help get you to the top and back down.

For more information, visit AdventureTerra.

Canopy Tours NW

Now that you’ve had a taste of tree climbing, channel your inner Tarzan or Jane on a zip-lining tour with family-owned Canopy Tours NW on Camano Island. The company offers a gradual introduction to the sport with 6 zip lines, a log bridge, and short trail walks on the Kristoferson Farm. Other farm events include team building programs, dinners in the barn, crafting workshops, Fall Festival, and a Holiday Open House.

For more information, visit Canopy Tours NW.

Art Lovers

Matzke Fine Art Design and Sculpture Park

Each May the community hosts the Camano Island Art Studio Tour featuring resident artists showcasing artworks in ceramics, glass, jewelry, textiles, painting, and photography, among other mediums.

But you needn’t wait for May to view local art galleries and outdoor sculpture gardens. For instance, visitors can view harmony in art and nature with a stroll of the grounds at Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park. Matzke carefully selects international artworks for display inside her 3,000 square foot gallery, alongside her flower gardens and walkways through towering ancient cedars that grace the 10-acre property.

For more information, visit Camano Island Art Studio Tour and Matzke Fine Art and Design.

Beachcombers

Cabins at Cama Beach State Park

If your idea of a coastal retreat includes beachcombing, quiet time, and your own rustic waterfront cabin, Cama Beach State Park is a haven of tranquility, especially in the offseason.

Originally developed as a 1930’s fishing resort, today Cama Beach State Park provides families a relaxing environment where they can walk together along the beach or hiking trails close by. Other popular activities on-site include beach cookouts, dining at the Cama Café, tours of the Center for Wooden Boats, or local history lessons through artifacts with the Park Ranger.

For an even quieter venue on your escape to Camano Island, “The Easy Island,” hike the one-mile trail to neighboring Camano Island State Park. In or on the water, spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainer, plus the possibility of wildlife and whale sightings, make this a special destination for your weekend getaway.

For more information, visit Cama Beach State Park and Camano Island State Park.

Wine & Beer Connoisseurs

Welcome at Dusty Cellars Winery

Enjoy handcrafted wines in a boutique winery setting at Dusty Cellars Winery. Plan your visit for the first weekend of the month when the winery opens its tasting room for wine tasting. Or visitors can arrange private tours for small groups with a call to the owners. With production limited to 700 cases per year, expect to find their wines exclusively at local establishments on Camano Island.

Edward Lynn Cellars Wine Tasting

Here’s an idea for any wanderboomer empty nesters: follow in the footsteps of Bill and Sandy Kintner of Edward Lynne Cellars to transform your empty nest into a vineyard. Now you’re talking! With the goal of producing quality estate wines, since beginning their venture in 2010, the Kintners have previewed white wine varietals of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. Most recently the couple has introduced red blends and varietals like Malbec and Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon to their boutique wine production.

When a beer is your beverage of choice, head to Ale Spike Camano Island Brewing. Whether your beer taste tends towards “light and refreshing” (Australian Sparkling Ale) or “bitter” (Bitter & Ugly),” the friendly, informative staff are bound to find you just the craft beer you’re looking for.

For more information, visit Dusty Cellars Winery, Edward Lynne Cellars. and Ale Spike Camano Island Brewing.

Coffee Aficionados

Camano Island Coffee Roaster

Inside the Camano Commons Marketplace, discover the secrets of what it takes to produce an ethical, fairly traded, healthy coffee with a tour of Camano Island Coffee Roaster. Not to mention the taste with flavor profiles that include cocoa, fruit, caramel, cinnamon, sugar, and nuts.

Founder Jeff Erikson is committed to producing quality certified organic, shade-grown coffee that preserves and protects the environment as well as providing a fair price for the farmers and coffee consumers.

Learn more at Camano Island Coffee Roasters.

To plan your next island weekend getaway, visit Whidbey & Camano Islands.

Wander on!

Visit California Safely and Responsibly

Safe and Responsible Travel

What’s New

What Hasn’t Changed

At the Helm Boutique Luxury Hotel & Pub

Location

Highlights

Rooms

Dining

Room Rates

Why Go Now

Getting There

Guidelines on Responsible Visiting

Reimagined Seattle Asian Art Museum Reopens

Overview of New Seattle Asian Art Museum

Main Renovations

What’s New

The Asian Art Collection

Cider Summit Seattle Kicks Off WA Cider Week

Cider Summit Seattle’s Coming of Age

Avid Cider Co.

Beauchamp Imports (French Cider)

Schilling Hard Cider

Finn River Farm & Cidery

Seattle Cider Company

Portland Cider Company

Tieton Cider Works

Escape to Camano Island, The Easy Island

Introduction

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Art Lovers

Beachcombers

Wine & Beer Connoisseurs

Coffee Aficionados

Destination:

Categories: