Spotlight On: Bemidji, MN By A.A. Miln With the new series of Fargo gaining international acclaim, the small town of Bemidji, MN, has become somewhat famous despite its humble nature.
Renowned for its blazing snow storms and locals possessing over-the-top Scandavian accents and a love for tatertot hotdish, there's a lot more to this town than the somewhat negative stereotypes that prevail. While the winter months can definitely be unforgiving with temparatures dipping to Siberian lows of -50F, the summer months are glorious, with temperatures soaring to the 80s-90s. Given the extreme influx of temperatures throughout the year, locals are a hearty bunch who take pride in their ability to withstand all seasons. If you're planning a visit, June-August are the best months to enjoy favourable weather. During the height of summer, locals enjoy the great outdoors and all it has to offer from fishing to water skiing or simply enjoying a boat cruise around one of the many lakes in the area. Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox No trip to Bemidji is complete without visiting the statue of folklore hero Paul Bunyan and his trusty companion Babe the Blue Ox. Every year thousands of visitors flock to have their photo taken with this plaid-clad lumberjack, who at 18ft tall, towers over visitors. Totally kitsch, it needs to be seen to be believed! The great outdoors Other excursions worth embarking on include a visit to Itasca State Park, the headwaters of the Mississippi River, and Buena Vista State Forest, both of which offer traditional camping in the heart of the Northwoods. Just be careful that you don't leave any food out, as you may have some unwelcome company in the form of black bears or racoons, which are one of the many mammals that call Minnesota home! Bemidji sporting excursions Minnesotans love any excuse to enjoy the outdoors and with this comes a passion for outdoor sports of all varieties. Fishing Fishing is an obsession for many, and anglers are spoilt for choice when it comes to great fishing spots. Lake Bemidji is often heralded as one of the best fishing lakes in Minnesota, with fishermen visiting in droves to catch Walleye, Northern Pike, Muskies, Bass and Sunnies. Minnesota law dictates that both residents and visitors must apply for a fishing license before one can even think about their bountiful catch. Licenses can be purchased from a variety of shops and are available for as little as 24 hours or the entire fishing season. For more information on fishing in Bemidji, visit http://www.visitbemidji.com/summer/fishing.html. Golfing The Bemidji Town & Country Club is the best golf course in the area. Located on the North Shore of Lake Bemidji, majestic Norway pines surround the manicured greens, providing a picturesque and serene spot - perfect for a day of relaxing golf. After a round of golf, unwind with cocktails in the North Shore Grill Bar and Restaurant. http://www.bemidjigolf.com Bemidji restaurants Fish is fabulous and fresh in Minnesota given the abundance of lakes in the state. After all, they don't call it the Land of 10,000 Lakes without reason! Sparkling Waters Restaurant One of the more upmarket restaurants in town, Sparkling Waters offers a wealth of delicious entrees including Walleye Almondine or Top Sirloin and Quail. In the summer months, enjoy cocktails or entrees on the patio overlooking the lake, hence its namesake. http://www.sparklingwatersbemidji.com Tuttobene Restaurant If it's Italian you're after, than look no further than Tuttobene. This delightfully chic Italian restaurant in downtown Bemidji serves up authentic Italian fare in a relaxed environment. Offerings include a variety of dishes such as Ricotta Cavatelli (fresh cavatelli, house-smoked cheddar, broccolini and mustard crumbs) and Wild Snowcrab Ravioli (fresh pasta, snow crab, chives, cherry tomato and smoked prosciutto). http://tuttobene.us/ Bemidji entertainment Culture vultures will love the Paul Bunyan Playhouse, which regularly features a variety of plays. For a schedule of what's on, visit http://www.thechieftheater.com. Whatever you get up to in Bemidji, you're certain to feel relaxed as the laidback vibe and friendly attitude are contagious. Find out for yourself why it's the coolest little town in the Northwoods... For more information on Bemidji, visit http://www.visitbemidji.com. Roosters and romance - Fall in love with the island of discovery...By A.A. Miln While it's becoming increasingly difficult to find bits of Hawaii that are truly unspoilt from modern day commercialism, Kauai still possesses some of the charm that many of the Hawaiian islands lack.
The Garden Isle The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain, and the fourth largest of the Hawaiian islands, this beautiful island also known as the “Garden Isle,” is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Emerald valleys, tropical rainforests and soaring cliffs juxtaposed against the crystal clear blue ocean, demand awe from even the most seasoned traveller. As soon as you arrive, it becomes apparent that this is a destination like no other. Many parts of the island remain remote, accessible only by sea or air, adding to its mystical allure. Wherever you go, you're certain to find amazing hospitality and a carefree attitude embraced by all of the locals. And surprisingly, you'll also find yourself surrounded by a more than a few more unique island natives - roosters. Rowdy roosters Locals often debate how the roosters came to arrive on the island, with one of the theories revolving around Hurricane Iniki, which Hit Kauai in 1992, decimating chicken farms and setting them free to roam. However they came to live on the island, they don't appear to be going anywhere any time soon. That being said, once you've settled into your surroundings, you'll hardly notice their presence - even with the inevitable 4 am morning crows! Whatever you do, ensure that you allow yourself enough time to truly relax. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or a sun lounger lizard, there really is something for everyone. Must-see destinations in Kauai For those visiting the North Shore, sail around the Napili Coast, take in the art galleries at Hanalei Town or visit the Kilauea Lighthouse, a wildlife sanctuary with sensational views. If you're heading to the East Shore, a.k.a 'Coconut Coast', take in the amazing Opaekka Falls or the Fern Grotto, a popular wedding destination. If your travels take you to the West side of the island, check out the famous Waimea Canyon or Hanapeepee Town, Kauai's 'biggest little town'. Hawaiian Coffee - Kauai Coffee Company Regardless of which side of the island you choose to visit, ensure that every day is spent enjoying the sun upon your face with a mug of premium Hawaiian coffee in hand. With the internationally renowned Kauai Coffee Company on the island (the largest coffee estate in the U.S.), you're never far away from a great cup of coffee. If like me, you're looking for the perfect equation for the 'good life', start with sun, sea, sand, scenery and sensational coffee and you're half way there. Until next time - Aloha. For more information on Kauai or Hawaii, visit: http://www.gohawaii.com/uk/ http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/ For killer coffee, visit http://www.kauaicoffee.com. |
North AmericaFrom majestic mountains to slick cities to rural areas and stunning beaches, there's something for everyone in North America. Archives
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