Friday, May 11, 2007

Insider's Guide to St. John's



If you're planning a trip to the "Far East" this summer, here's a list of must see/dos.

Lighthouse Picnics My friend, Jill Curran moved back home from Scotland and along with her friend Sonia, started Lighthouse Picnics in Ferryland. One of the province's best kept secrets, its worth the short hike for the fantastic food and view. See pics above from the Lighthouse Picnics.

Iceberg Finder
If there are any, here's where you'll know where to find them.

Puffins & Whales
Depending on the time of year, you'll see both. There's plenty but check out O'Brien's

The Rooms
Some aren't fussy on the modern arcitecture, calling it the "box the Bascilia came in". Others, like me, love it. The home of the provincial museum, archieves, art gallery and a great cafe - the Rooms is stunning. One of the best views of the harbour and narrows. Not to mention the crab cakes!

Ches's
Ask for "fi & chi with d & g" (fish and chips with dressing and gravy). You get a certificate one your first visit.

East Coast Trail
Take in as much of this incredible trail system as you can. Maps available.

Middle Cove Beach
Just minutes from downtown, it's worth the trip out Marine Drive. During the summer evenings, folks go to the beach for bonfires. And in June, you can even scoop up a few capelin.

Hiking at Cape Spear Lighthouse
Cape Spear is the most easterly point on the continent. Be there at dawn and be the first in North America to see the sun rise.

Moo Moo’s Ice Cream and Rennie’s River Trail
Get an ice cream at the family owned Moo Moo's (88 King's Rd). Try blueberry sorbet or the sinfully rich turtle-cheesecake ice cream. Then, take a stroll to Rennie's River (part of the Grand Concourse. This is the winding trail runs right through the heart of the city.

Auntie Crae’s on Tuesday for Lunch (272 Water St)
That's when the Auntie Crae's band comes in for an impromptu concert (free!) in the common room. Bring your own lunch or grab something from the great deli counter.

Georgestown Bakery (60 Hayward Ave at Maxse St)
A quaint, family bakery in the heart of Georgetown. Perhaps the best bagels east of St-Viatuer.

Fred’s Records (198 Duckworth Street)
If you have an interest in music, both local and global, the folks at Fred's will point you in the right direction.

Hava Java (216 Water St.)
Great coffee. A perfect morning stop.

The Ship (265 Duckworth St)
Evening entertainment covers all the bases; expect everything from poetry readings to live jazz, blues or reggae. Wednesday are Folk Night.

International Flavours (4 Quidi Vidi Road)
Chicken or Vegetarian? That is the question— the answer is the best curry you have ever had.

Devon House Crafts (59 Duckworth St)
Great local artisan crafts, visual art and handmade gifts.

Newfoundland Weavery (177 Water St.)
Perfect for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Johnny Ruth (166 Water St.)
Great selection of women's clothes and jewelry from Canadian designers.