Local Travel Tip

Known as the Most Livable City in the World and as the cleanest city in Europe, Copenhagen is friendly to families of all ages. It is a unique and interesting place for a vacation that offers a variety of activities, including:

1. Ice Skating: There are at least six authentic outdoor ice skating rinks in Copenhagen. The crisp, cool air is a refreshing experience for all who take advantage of this special family outing experience.
2. Night Sky:  The Tycho Brahe Planetarium is also a special experience for those who are fascinated with the night sky. The presentations always begin with a quick review of what the night sky actually looks like that night. Although the presentations are commonly given in Danish, there are head phones/translators for English speakers.
3. Theatre: Copenhagen offers a variety of opportunities to see the performed arts as well. The Royal Danish Opera and the Royal Danish Playhouse are both situated on water fronts, which offer miraculous views. The Royal Danish Theatre’s Old Stage has a very elegant interior, showcasing red velvet and gold.
4. The Little Mermaid: In honor of Hans Christian Anderson’s Little Mermaid, Copenhagen is home to a statue named after her. It is one of the most photographed statues in the world.
5. Shopping: The world’s longest pedestrian street that features the Copenhagen’s largest shopping center is known as Strøget. Big International Brands like Prada, Max Mara, Louis Vuitton, Cerutti, Mulberry, Chanel, Marlboro, Karen Millen, Hermès and Boss are all offered here.

When I first arrived here in Utah, one of the first things I heard about as a “must see/do” was the Heber Creeper. The Heber Creeper is an old fashioned train ride around the Heber Valley/Provo Canyon area. It features two 1907 Baldwin steam locomotives and three vintage diesel electric locomotives. Over 95,000 passengers ride this attraction per year. Passengers are allowed to move between cars on most rides. Some cars are open to the air, while others are not.

I had a chance to go on the Provo Canyon Limited, which is a scenic three hour train ride. Provo Canyon is quite beautiful at certain times of the year. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the older train and being able to relax and enjoy the nature going by. I was able to go with my Aunt and her family, including two of my cousins who were between ages 2 and 5. While a little unsure about the whistle at first, they loved the train! It was so much fun to be able to spend time with them.

For those of you who more action oriented the Heber Creeper does offer several holiday related events through out the year however. Right now, they are offering the family friendly Haunted Canyon Ride. On this ride passengers are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes, but dress warmly.

Also upcoming are the December related events including the Bells’ n’ Whistles, The Polar Express, and the Tube n’ Train. In Bells’ n’ Whistles passengers ride the train for awhile and then take a horse-pulled sleigh ride up to a ranch where warm treats are enjoyed. The Polar Express is a special treat for any child, including Santa, elves, story reading, and warm treats. Tube n’ Train is popular among the young adults, where the Heber Creeper is taken to a location where snow tubing complete with tow services are provided. More information can be found at: http://www.hebervalleyrr.org/excursions/pcl.php

I love spending time in Hong Kong.

I thought Hong Kong was going to be dirty city- like tons of exhaust in the air, clutter in the gutters, and smoke everywhere- that type of dirty. That is what large cities are usually like because there are so many people, cars, and just…stuff. Hong Kong surprised me, because it was really nice and clean.

I love walking down along the boardwalk. You get a great waterfront view of the city. If you want, you can ride across the water on a ferries or other boats.

Don’t miss out on the nightly laser show. When I was there during Christmas it was choreographed to Christmas music which was really festive. The light show reminded me of the Belgaio Fountains in Las Vegas or fireworks on the fourth of July- both unique and quite entertaining. You definitely don’t want to miss the laser show- make sure you are on time for it because it gets really crowed right before the show starts!

Also along the boardwalk is the Hollywood walk of stars, which has the hand prints of famous movie stars. Jackie Chan and Jet Li even have stars there.

There are many restaurants that will tempt you and different events that keep the boardwalk always an exciting spot to spend time at.

Hong Kong Light Show

Hollywood Walk of the Stars

Have fun as you spend time in Hong Kong!