Far from the stress of crowded airports or stations, ferries allow you to travel in comfort while taking your time.
Our friends at Vivanoda, a web platform that enables all travelers to find ferry, bus, train and plane tickets, wanted to launch a major study into ferry prices in Europe in order to gain a better understanding of the variations in ferry ticket prices according to a number of criteria (destination country, distance, seasonality, etc.).
Fortunately for those of us interested in a Europe trip that includes ferrying, they have analyzed tens of thousands of ferry fares on hundreds of routes in Europe, as well as crossings to Turkey and the Maghreb countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia), to get as exhaustive a picture as possible. If you enjoy comparing prices using graphs you are going to want to keep reading…
It’s not difficult to understand the appeal of Ferry travel- leisurely comfortable rides with great views.
Here are the key points highlighted by this study at European level:
Ferry crossings to Tunisia, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland and Sweden have the lowest price index.
Conversely, ferry crossings to Turkey, the UK and Morocco have the highest price indexes.
Connections between Greece and Turkey and those between Morocco and Spain are proportionally the most expensive in Europe.
Connections between Germany and Lithuania or Latvia are the least expensive in relation to the distance travelled.
The shorter the crossing, the more expensive it is.
Across Europe, prices are higher on average from July to September. They are also slightly higher at weekends.
For The Silo, Nicolas Pellier.
About Vivanoda Vivanoda is a web platform that makes it easy to find ferry, train, bus and plane tickets for travel in Europe. Launched in 2013, the site has received awards from the European Commission, the International Union of Railways and the Groupama insurance group.
One of the greatest rock frontmen of all time, Queen’s Freddie Mercury was famous for his theatrical style and four octave vocal range.
Born Farrokh Bulsara in Zanzibar, he fled to England with his family in the wake of the Zanzibar Revolution, in which many Arabs and South Asians were massacred. Settling near London, he studied graphic art and design (which he would later use to design Queen’s logo) and sold second-hand clothes with future Queen drummer Roger Taylor at the Kensington Market.
Garden Lodge- Trees in bloom
He fronted a series of bands, but his career really took off in 1973, when he joined with Taylor, guitarist Brian May, and bassist John Deacon to produce Queen’s first self-titled album. He would perform over 700 shows with the band, thrilling sold-out stadiums with his unique style and strong connection to his audience. He died of AIDS in 1991, but his music lives on, with Queen’s Greatest Hits the best-selling album of all time in the UK, and two of his songs “We Are The Champions” and “Bohemian Rhapsody” voted best songs of all time in major polls, and his induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Mercury left his Kensington home to his former partner and longtime friend Mary Austin.
Garden Lodge- Dining Room.
Though he would pursue romantic relationships with men, he considered Mary the love of his life and common-law wife. Garden Lodge is a stunning Neo-Georgian mansion which served as Mercury’s “country house in London”, a sanctuary from his high-intensity life on tour. Meticulously preserved for thirty years by Austin, this time capsule of music history is offered for sale for the first time since Mercury’s purchase in 1980, accepting offers in excess of £30m ($38m usd/ $51.7m cad).
Freddie’s grand piano which once lived at Garden Lodge sold via Sotheby’s Auction for $2.2m USD/ $2.96m CAD.
Garden Lodge’s centerpiece is a two-story drawing room, which once housed the grand piano on which Mercury composed his signature hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” French doors lead from the Japanese sitting room to the beautiful gardens. Every room of the house is infused with Mercury’s vibrant personality, with design choices made personally by the artist, including citrus-toned yellow walls in the intimate dining room, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors in the lavish dressing room that once housed his extensive collection of stage costumes. Surrounded by stone walls, the chance to own this unique cultural landmark is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Garden Lodge- A view from the hall looking towards the famous ‘Green Door’.
According to Austin, “This house has been the most glorious memory box, because it has such love and warmth in every room. Ever since Freddie and I stepped through the fabled green door, it has been a place of peace, a true artist’s house, and now is the time to entrust that sense of peace to the next person.”
Freddie- at home in Garden Lodge and in bed eating a meal that needed a peppermill close by.
Kensington is an upscale London neighborhood known for its stately Victorian homes. Nearby options for entertainment include the Natural History Museum, the Design Museum, Kensington Palace, and Kensington Gardens. The chic boutiques on Kensington High Street and star-studded concerts at Royal Albert Hall are both within walking distance. Popular with celebrities, the neighborhood’s notable residents include Eric Clapton, Stella McCartney, Rowan Atkinson, and Dido. For the Silo, Bob Walsh/toptenrealestatedeals
The listing is held by Knight Frank. Photos of Garden Lodge courtesy Knight Frank.
Fig. 1: Distribution of items most frequently stolen in hotel rooms. 1,376 hoteliers took part in the survey. Click to enlarge. Source: Wellness Heaven | Download Image | Download Data
Munich, February, 2024 — Stealing soaps or pens seems harmless for many hotel guests, however, some are so bold that they carry TVs, pianos, mattresses or even stuffed animals out of the hotel. Wellness Heaven has asked 1,376 hotel managers which items are most commonly stolen. In particular, we observe a striking difference in the theft behavior between guests in 4-star and 5-star hotels.
Friends: Chandler & Ross Load Up on Hotel Amenities
Ross Teaching Chandler the 101 on Theft in Hotels “You have to find the line between stealing and taking what the hotel owes you.” Source: YouTube.
The main result of the study: towels and bathrobes are stolen the most – perhaps as a goodie for the next spa break? These two objects of desire are closely followed by hangers, pens and cosmetics. In addition to these “ordinary” items, there is a number of spectacular outliers that suggest a brisk imagination of the delinquents:
The most bizarre stolen goods
Bathroom Fittings
Highly skilled craftsmanship was required of those guests who managed to steal bathroom fixtures, the head of a rain shower, a hydromassage shower, a toilet seat, a drainpipe or even an entire sink, as reported by a Berlin hotel.
A Grand Piano
A hotelier from Italy: “Once I walked through the lobby, I noticed that something was missing, and soon after I learned that three unknown men in overalls had taken away the grand piano, and it never reappeared, of course.”
Room Numbers
In a hotel in England a guest had unceremoniously removed the numbers from his hotel room door. “We didn’t notice until the next guest could not find his room”, the hotel director declares.
Stuffed Hunting Trophies
In a hotel in France, a guest was caught trying to steal a stuffed boar’s head. At a later date, he did receive this trophy: friends bought the precious piece from the hotel and gave it to him as a wedding gift.
Sauna Benches
In a hotel near Salzburg, the wooden benches from a sauna were stolen. The “private sauna” was located on the terrace of a spa suite. The benches were made of fragrant pine wood, which probably stirred up the guest’s desire. Only when a subsequent guest criticized the absence of the benches (“Where should I sit in the sauna? I can’t relax while standing.”), the hotelier noticed the theft.
HiFi System
A hotel owner from Germany reports on how the entire stereo system of the spa area disappeared: Thieves had apparently dismantled the entire sound equipment overnight and loaded it in their car before they left.
Flowers
The management of a resort in the Maldives reports that it buys new flower arrangements several times a week to replace the missing ones. Maybe the demand for flowers is simply too high due to the many marriage proposals?
Thieving preferences by nationality
When classifying the delinquents by nationality, a different picture emerges. It turns out, for example, that German and British hotel guests follow a rather boring theft behavior: In addition to towels and bathrobes, primarily cosmetics and toiletries are in the focus.
In contrast, Austrians snitch in a more pleasure-oriented way: dishes and coffee machines appear high up in their theft ranking. It seems they cannot get enough to satisfy their thirst for coffee. For US Americans, pillows and batteries appear as the prime objects of desire.
Italians seem to prefer wine glasses as a hotel souvenir, while the hair dryer ranks high up in the Swiss ranking. The French, on the other hand, steal in a more spectacular manner: they represent the nation that is attracted mainly to TV sets and remote controls.
Dutch hotel guests see in their souvenirs above all the practical benefit: Their favorites include light bulbs and toilet paper.
Fig. 2: Differences in theft behavior between guests of 4-star and 5-star hotels. Click to enlarge. Source: Wellness Heaven | Download Image | Download Data
Guests of 5-star hotels prefer expensive items: TVs & mattresses
A total of 740 hoteliers from 4-star hotels and 636 from 5-star hotels were surveyed to determine the behavior of thieves depending on their wealth. As it turns out, “Greed is good” seems to be a reliable motto especially for the well-heeled 5-star clientele.
The probability of tablet computers being stolen in 5-star hotels, is 6 times higher in comparison to the 4-star segment. Similarly, artworks are popular objects of desire in luxury hotels (4.3 x higher theft probability). TV sets (4.9 x) and mattresses (5.4 x) are also being stolen a lot more frequently in 5-star hotels. This is quite astonishing: 11.8% of 5-star hotel managers mourn the loss of mattresses, while only 2.2% of 4-star hotels seem to be affected. In total, 91 hoteliers indicate the theft of mattresses in our survey, so at least that many were stolen in their hotels.
4-star hotel guests are content with less spectacular gifts: towels and hangers tend to be in higher demand than in 5-star hotels. The typical 4-star hotel guest is especially fond of practical items such as batteries and remote controls (theft probability 2.8 and 4.4 x higher, respectively).
Coffeemakers
The coffeemaker, which is so popular among Austrian guests, is also sought-after by luxury-minded 5-star guests, as we observe a 4.8-fold increase in theft statistics.
Toilet Paper
Hoteliers’ theft reports about toilet paper rolls only reach us from the 4-star segment. For luxury travellers, there seems to be no additional need for hygiene in this area.
Luxury Mattresses
Even expensive luxury mattresses (often worth several thousand euros) are not immune to disappear: the probability for their theft is 5.4 times higher in 5-star hotels. How exactly the bulky goods are transported unnoticed out of the hotel remains a mystery. On request, some hoteliers informed us that this only happens in the middle of the night – using elevators which lead directly to the underground parking.
Tablet Computers
Tablet computers, often referred to as “SuitePads” in the high-priced room categories, are stolen 6.0 times more frequently in 5-star hotels. Such tablets usually have a value of approx. 480 euros and tend to be a popular souvenir among luxury travelers.
Blankets
To complete their sleeping experience at home, some luxury oriented guests add the hotel’s blanket to their luggage. Theft of this object is 1.9-fold increased in 5-star hotels.
Trends in hotel thievery
Comparing data with our 2019 survey on theft in hotels, “Mini Fridges” have emerged as a new item of desire. 3.3% of surveyed hoteliers indicate theft of this device, leaving the mini bar not only empty, but also warm. Not cool! The theft of mini fridges is 2.5 x more probable in 4-star hotels. In comparison with 2019, several items of theft are on the rise: coffee makers (6.9% -> 11.4%), mattresses (4.2% -> 6.6%) and tablet computers (12.0% -> 18.3%) have increased significantly. On the other hand, phones (4.8% -> 3.4%), cutlery (33.6% -> 27.5%) and lamps (4.3% -> 4.1%) have decreased in theft probability.
Methods
On the methodology of this survey: The multiple-choice answers were randomized, multiple answers were possible. For example “Towels” in Fig. 1: 79.2% of surveyed hoteliers have indicated that towels were stolen at their hotel. The survey was conducted in September and October 2023.
A total of 1,376 responses were evaluated, the result can be considered as representative. The 1,376 hotels whose management participated in the survey are located primarily in Europe. 740 hoteliers were surveyed in the 4-star segment, and 636 in the 5-star segment.
Wellness Heaven
Wellness Heaven (https://www.wellness-heaven.de) was founded in 2006 by quantum physicist Dr. Tassilo Keilmann. The hotel portal reviews spa and luxury hotels in Europe und Asia. With 53 million page impressions annually, Wellness Heaven is the leading spa hotel guide in German-speaking countries. The 18 Wellness Heaven hotel testers regularly evaluate selected hotels and rate them on the basis of a standardized test procedure. The website focuses on hotels in Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland and the Maldives.
With the retirement of Francesco Totti five years ago, fans had been wondering if his team, Roma, would retire his famous number 10 shirt. In the end, they did not.
That got us thinking, what are the most famous shirt retirements in Soccer – Football history? Let’s take a look.
As many dedicated foodies will know, hunting for the most incredible food spots when traveling requires a savvy approach. There are plenty of bustling food markets, charming eateries, and hidden culinary gems around the world to explore – but where are the best cities to be a foodie?
To find out, our friends at Spin Genie looked at various factors, such as the average cost of visiting a restaurant in different parts of the world, the cities with the most restaurants, and the most Instagrammable food spots.
Whether you’re looking to try out sizzling street food in Bangkok or seeking the ultimate Michelin-star experience in Paris, we’ll reveal the ultimate travel guide for food lovers and unique spots to indulge in flavourful cuisines from across the globe.
The Best Foodie Cities Around the World
1. George Town, Malaysia – 7.86/10
George Town takes the crown as the best foodie city, scoring 7.86 out of 10. The colourful, multicultural capital is surrounded by stunning colonial streets and is described as a center for vibrant culture, street art, and the country’s best street food.
Also in the top place for its wide range of affordable food spots, George Town has plenty to offer food lovers, from Michelin-starred feasts to street eats. Teksen Restaurant is a top choice, serving delicious dishes since 1965. The well-known Chinese restaurant among its locals has won the hearts of serious foodies with its traditional Cantonese cuisine infused with a local twist.
2. Taipei, Taiwan – 7.31/10
Taipei follows closely behind, scoring 7.31 out of 10. The food capital of Taiwan offers an array of things to experience and explore, from the island’s fascinating temple culture and architecture to its indulgent food at affordable prices.
Some of the best food spots for quality, flavourful dishes and good service in the capital include Din Tai Fung, which has been serving traditional Chinese dishes since its opening
in the 1980s. Another top-rated restaurant is Raw, a French-style restaurant with vibrant cuisine infused with Taiwanese flavours.
3. Osaka, Japan – 7.24/10
Described as the economic powerhouse of the Kansai Region, Osaka is a large port city known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and hearty street food. If you’re looking for some of the best food spots in Japan, Osaka has plenty to offer.
Osaka Cuisine Asai is a Michelin-star restaurant that serves various course meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients daily. With such a vibrant food scene, it’s no wonder the popular city completes the top three, scoring 7.24 out of 10.
The Most Affordable Foodie Cities for a Quick Bite
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Average cost at a cheap restaurant: C$1.98
Chiang Mai grabs first place as the foodie city with the most affordable meals at a cheap restaurant. On average, meals are incredibly inexpensive, costing just C$1.98. Some of the best cheap eats in Chiang Mai include The Breakfast Club, a bakery restaurant at the heart of Chiang Mai, and Tong Tem Toh, a popular restaurant specializing in Northern Thai cuisine.
The Most Expensive Foodie Cities for a Quick Bite
1. London, England
Average cost at a cheap restaurant: C$34.70
London tops the list when it comes to the foodie city you’ll most likely pay more for, even while dining at a cheap restaurant. The capital city harbours some of the world’s best hotels, bars, and restaurants, but sometimes at a hefty price.
With over 300 Michelin-star restaurants in the city alone, it’s no surprise London has a wide range of food hot spots that tend to be more expensive. In fact, on average, you can expect to spend C$34.70 for a meal.
Foodie Cities with the Most Affordable Mid-range Restaurants
1. George Town, Malaysia
Average cost at a mid-range restaurant: C$13.46
George Town tops the list for having some of the most affordable meals at a mid-range restaurant. On average, a meal for two costs as little as C$13.46, much lower than in many other major foodie cities.
One of the most popular areas for street food is New Lane; here, you can find stalls selling everything from BBQ chicken wings to rice noodle rolls at highly affordable prices.
Foodie Cities with the Most Expensive Mid-range Restaurants
1. Copenhagen, Denmark
Average cost at a mid-range restaurant: C$160.21
Described as a classy city with many small independent galleries and cafés, Copenhagen offers diverse worldwide cuisines, from Taiwanese to Ethiopian food spots. There are also around 68 Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants within the city.
It comes as no surprise that the city is the most expensive for a meal. As a matter of fact, it costs as much as C$160.21 for a three-course dinner for two. If you’re seeking a Michelin-star experience for a moderate price, Selma is a great restaurant to experience traditional Danish lunch.
The Foodie Cities with the Most Cheap Restaurants
1. George Town, Malaysia
Total number of cheap restaurants: 280
Number of cheap restaurants per 10,000 population: 17.7
With many favourites, such as Siam Road Charcoal Char Kuey Teow, New Lane Street Food stalls, and the Tai Tong Restaurant, it is no surprise that George Town grabs first place as the city with the most affordable joints. There are just under 300 cheap eats to discover in George Town, with roughly 17.7 cheap restaurants per 10,000 population.
The Foodie City with the Most Mid-range Restaurants
1. Paris, France
Total number of mid-range restaurants: 8,410
Number of mid-range restaurants per 10,000 population: 36.6
The capital of France and a major European city, Paris, is one of the global centers for art, fashion, culture, and, of course, food. Known for its cafe culture, there are plenty of opportunities to grab a bite.
Le Truffaut, Maison, and Le Cadoret, which serve classic French food, are just some of the hottest restaurants in Paris right now.
The Foodie City with the Most Fine-dining Restaurants
1. Paris, France
Total number of fine dining restaurants: 709
Number of fine dining restaurants per 10,000 population: 3.1
Once again, Paris tops the list for the foodie city with the most fine-dining restaurants. The city has, on average, 3.1 fine-dining restaurants per 10,000 of the population. From Odette to Atelier Maître Albert, the city has an impressive 709 fine-dining restaurants in total. This comes as no surprise as the famous capital is home to some of the most renowned restaurants in the world.
The Most Instagrammed Foodie Hotspots
1. Melbourne, Australia
Instagram hashtags: #Melbournefoodie
Number of Instagram hashtags: 2.8 Million
Melbourne takes the crown for the most Instagrammed food spot with a whopping 2.8 million posts for the hashtag #Melbournefoodie. Some of the most Instagrammable dining experiences include Sebastian, a restaurant reminiscent of the sunny shores of San Sebastian; The Kettle Black, a café featured in Vogue Living; and Higher Ground, a one-of-a-kind location with three levels of dining space and 15-meter high ceilings.
Highest-earning Influential Foodies
1. Gordon Ramsay
Potential earnings: C$64,965 (£37,740)
When it comes to the highest-earning foodie influencer in the world, it comes as no surprise that the British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay tops the list with an impressive potential earnings figure of C$64,965 (£37,740) per sponsored post on Instagram.
During his career, the multi-Michelin-starred chef has opened a string of successful restaurants worldwide, including the UK, France and Singapore. Also a star on the small screen, Gordon Ramsey has been featured in shows such as MasterChef US, Kitchen Nightmares, Hell’s Kitchen, and Hotel Hell.
Thriving as one of the most famous restaurateurs today, the MasterChef has some top-tier restaurants for foodies to visit, such as the Restaurant Gordon Ramsay located on Royal Hospital Road in Chelsea, London. Holding three Michelin stars, foodies can expect nothing but the finest seasonal ingredients for the most elegant modern French cuisines.
The Best Foodie Cities in the US and Canada
1. Savannah, Georgia – 7.86/10
Savannah tops the list as the best foodie city, scoring 7.86 out of 10, known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, charming architecture, and its rich, vibrant history. The city’s food scene is just as impressive. From plentiful coastal cuisines to flavours from around the world – Savannah knows how to serve a good time and a good meal.
A top foodie destination in Savannah for locals, tourists, and celebrities alike is the Olympia Cafe. After more than three decades in business, the dining establishment thrives, serving up a storm with its much-loved traditional Greek and Mediterranean menu.
2. Las Vegas, Nevada – 7.78/10
In second place is Nevada’s finest – Las Vegas, with a score of 7.78 out of 10. The food scene in Las Vegas has grown to become a so-called “Gourmet Rooms” galore hailed by celebrities.
From Bardot Brasserie to Wing Lei, the first Chinese restaurant in the United States to be awarded a Michelin star, the city has every genre of food imaginable, all at various price points.
3. Atlanta, Georgia – 7.26/10
Ranking in third place is Atlanta, scoring 7.26 out of 10. From century-old diners to award-winning eateries, Atlanta offers some of the best dining experiences in the country and is described as one of the nation’s best food cities. The city caters to all tastes and palates, whether you prefer classic southern cuisines or top-tier modern dishes.
Bacchanalia is one of the top-rated restaurants in the city, offering guests a complete dining experience. You will not be disappointed if you opt for their signature dishes or divine four-course tasting menu.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Affordable Quick Bites
1. Savannah, Georgia
Average cost of a meal at a cheap restaurant: C$16.26 (US$12.00)
When it comes to foodie cities with the most affordable meal at a cheap restaurant, Savannah grabs first place with an average of C$16.26 (US$12.00) for a decent plate of food.
If you’re looking for a new dinner spot to try out, Savannah has an array of places to add to your list, including southern favourites such as The Olde Pink House. Whether you’re in search of classic southern cuisines such as shrimp, grits, and buttery biscuits or a plant-based brunch, you won’t run out of options.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Expensive Quick Bites
1. Saint John, New Brunswick
Average cost of a meal at a cheap restaurant: C$35.41 (US$26.13)
Home to a variety of cafes and restaurants that offer an array of colourful cuisines, international dishes, and the ultimate Canadian comfort foods, Saint John tops the list as the foodie city with the most expensive meals at a cheap restaurant. On average, you can expect to pay C$35.41 (US$26.13).
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Affordable Mid-range Restaurants
1. Winnipeg, Manitoba
Average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: C$75.89 (US$56.00)
Winnipeg has many great food spots. In fact, a couple of the city’s restaurants are seen as some of Canada’s best eateries, with an average price of C$75.89 (US$56.00). If you’re looking for a trend-setting eatery in Winnipeg, Deer and Almond is the perfect blend of global and local flavours.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Expensive Mid-range Restaurants
1. Seattle, Washington
Average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant: C$162.63 (US$120.00)
Surrounded by the Olympic mountains and evergreen forests, Seattle is a hub for many attractions, entertainment, and food and drink spots. The beautiful food scene in the city offers visitors anything from local seafood to downtown gems.
Whether you want to try classic or unique cuisine, Seattle offers it all, from Pacific Northwest cuisine inspired by Filipino-American flavours to contemporary dishes bursting with rich seasonings. However, these delicious cuisines come with a hefty price tag. The average meal cost at a mid-range restaurant in Seattle is C$162.63 (US$120.00).
The Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Cheap Restaurants
1. Victoria, British Columbia
Number of mid-range per 10,000 population: 11.2
A great place for food lovers to explore and enjoy the local culinary scene is Victoria. The Canadian city has a host of hidden foodie gems and fine dining hotspots that will leave you spoilt for choice.
The city not only has a thriving culinary scene, but it is also the top destination with the highest number of cheap restaurants in both the US and Canada, with an estimated 11.2 affordable restaurants per 10,000 population.
Foodie Cities in the US and Canada with the Most Mid-range Restaurants
1. Victoria, British Columbia
Number of mid-range per 10,000 population: 36.7
Also the top foodie city with the highest number of cheap restaurants, Victoria once again tops the list with the highest number of mid-range restaurants in both the US and Canada.
Whether it’s mouth-watering Chinese cuisine or Danish baked goodies, the city has enough colour and flavour to satisfy culinary cravings at any price point. As a result of its large, diverse range of eateries, Victoria has approximately 36.7 mid-range restaurants per 10,000 population.
The Foodie Cities with the Most Fine-dining Restaurants in the US and Canada
1. Las Vegas, Nevada
Number of fine dining per 10,000 population: 2.3
From Michelin-starred restaurants to world-class cuisine, Las Vegas offers a memorable dining experience. The city tops the list with an estimated 2.3 fine dining establishments per 10,000.
Whether it’s indulging in traditional French fare at Joël Robuchon or immersing yourself in the mouth-watering experience of Japanese delicacies at the world-famous Nobu in Caesars Palace, even the most demanding culinary appetite is guaranteed satisfaction.
The Most Instagrammed Foodie Hotspots in the US and Canada
1. New York City, New York
Instagram hashtags: #NYCfoodie
Number of Instagram posts: 2.1 Million
As a city bursting with character, it is no surprise that New York City takes the top spot for the most Instagrammable dining experiences. From floral-covered interior designs to chic modern rooftops, the Big Apple really does have something for everyone.
Filled with iconic landmarks, the popular city bagged over 2.1 million posts on Instagram using the hashtag #NYCfoodie.
Highest-earning Influential Foodies in the US and Canada
1. Chrissy Teigen
Potential earnings: C$182,849 (US$135,150)
With several best-selling cookbooks under her belt, the American model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen is crowned first place as the highest-earning foodie influencer on Instagram across the US and Canada.
The popular star has also been featured on several cooking channels, such as Cookies and Cocktails and Chrissy Teigen’s Hungry. She also launched her own cooking website back in 2019. Therefore it’s no wonder that the well-known star is estimated to make a whopping sum per sponsored post on the social media platform.
Some of Teigen’s favourite food spots include Giorgio Baldi, a popular restaurant on the Pacific Coast and Via Veneto, a lively Italian eatery in Santa Monica that combines organic and locally sourced ingredients with its creative cuisines.
Methodology
Using a list of articles such as Time Out and Luxury Columnist, we created a seed list of the top foodie cities around the world. With this list, we then used Numbeo to source the average cost of a cheap restaurant as well as the cost of a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant. Please note that each currency used was also taken from Numbeo. This data was collected on 01/08/2023.
Then, using Trip Advisor, we gathered data on the number of cheap, mid-range, and fine-dining restaurants by using the relevant filters on the site. The data collected was solely based on the number of restaurants from within each city, not including nearby areas. Data collection of this was completed on 21/08/2023.
To calculate per 10,000 population, we used City Population to search for each city’s population. We took the most current data available for each location and only considered cities with more than 50,000 population. This data was completed on 16/08/2023.
To find out which cities are the most Instagrammable, we used Instagram to search for various hashtags relating to each city e.g. #[CITY]foodie. This data collection was completed on 22/08/2023.
Using various articles from Google, our friends also compiled a list of the top foodie influencers, considering how many followers they have on the social media platform. We then calculated their highest estimated potential earnings per sponsored post by using the Instagram Influencer Sponsored Post Money Calculator. The data collection for this section was completed on 23/08/2023.
The UK Hydrogen Strategy estimates that to meet Net Zero aims by 2050, hydrogen will make up 20-35% of the UK’s final energy demand (250-460 TWh a year). Hydrogen therefore has a critical role to play in the decarbonization of industry, power, heat and transport.
Yet in this recent report, the UK Hydrogen Champion found that there is a need for greater clarity on upcoming policy decisions for hydrogen users, the funding available and overall delivery of the hydrogen roadmap to 2030 and beyond. Is the UK (and for that matter what about here in Canada? CP) really doing everything it can to maintain momentum and realize hydrogen opportunities?
Tevva’s area of expertise – transport – will have a critical role to play in the United Kingdom’s decarbonization goals. Worldwide around a fifth of CO2 emissions comes from trucks, and both McKinsey and the Hydrogen Council believe the most competitive use of hydrogen lies in decarbonizing trucks. Trucks using batteries or hydrogen fuel cells instead of diesel engines will indeed need to make up the vast majority of new sales by 2040 under plans to reduce CO2 emissions from medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Yet only around 700 trucks that run on batteries or fuel cells were sold in Europe last year – about 0.2% of the total.
The good news is that the economics of owning and operating electric and hydrogen trucks, their total cost of ownership or TCO, are improving rapidly. And with diesel truck prices set to increase with Euro 7, electrification of our sector could happen sooner than previously thought.
Yet there are still serious challenges around the lack of hydrogen refueling stations and the fact that most fleet operators have no experience of hydrogen, in addition many hydrogen suppliers have no experience of truck fleets.
As an early adopter and developer of hydrogen technology, Tevva is playing an important role in demonstrating the potential for hydrogen electric trucks. We showcased our concept prototype 7.5t and 19t hydrogen electric trucks at the IAA in Hanover last year and have been encouraged by the high level of interest in these dual energy vehicles.
In January we took the 7.5t prototype on a ‘border run’ to Berwick-on-Tweed, England’s northernmost town. On the way up we stopped at an Element 2 refueling station in Teesside, and the return journey saw us cover almost 350 miles without needing to stop at all. This was made possible by the truck’s hydrogen fuel cell which tops up the range-extended vehicle’s lithium battery when needed.
Still, there is an urgent need for a more comprehensive hydrogen refueling network in the UK, and the speed and scalability of hydrogen refueling systems will be crucial to adoption while keeping costs under control. Element 2 is doing great work in this space. They are in the process of putting a skeleton network in place with 100 miles between each refueling station, giving confidence to any haulage company that is considering hydrogen electric trucks.
Today the UK has pockets of Megawatt (MW)-scale hydrogen activities that are evolving alongside ambitious proposals for Gigawatt (GW)-scale low carbon hydrogen clusters by 2030. Learning from initiatives in Europe, Asia and North America, as well as the UK’s own experiences, coordination is vital to minimize costs and maximize the benefits of hydrogen infrastructure. The opportunity is now for UK central, regional and local Government bodies and industry to plan and invest jointly to grow hydrogen transport systems holistically.
The UK does have a supportive and growing hydrogen ecosystem with many public bodies, new and established companies, universities, and others building their hydrogen capabilities and strategies. However, the experience of individual organizations and maturity of cross-industry collaboration in dealing with hydrogen systems is typically orders of magnitude lower than for traditional fossil fuel systems. Therefore, in the short term early adopters need more support to overcome the limited infrastructure and complexity of supply chains, higher unit costs, and long or uncertain lead times for hydrogen products and services.
As low-carbon hydrogen becomes cheaper and more widely available, hydrogen refueling has the potential to become as simple as diesel refueling is today. We are committed to making hydrogen convenient, affordable and sustainable for truck fleet operators. Achieving the UK’s net zero goals depends on it. For the Silo, Harsh Pershad, Head of Hydrogen at Tevva.
More often than not, all our museum experiences are quite similar. We see some art or historical artifacts, learn about a subject, and sometimes listen to a lesson during a tour.
And while every museum is invaluable, sometimes the heart wants something quirkier and unusual. Evidently, many people had the same sentiment because if you really look, you’ll find some incredible gems in the world of museums.
Here are the world’s weirdest museums you must visit.
Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum, Osaka, Japan
Ramen is synonymous with Japan, so no wonder there is a museum dedicated to it! Momofuko Ando, the Taiwanese-Japanese inventor, invented Chicken ramen noodles in his backyard shed in 1958.
The Momofuku Ando Instant Ramen Museum shows this Japan’s cult food that went global by displaying ramen noodle packages from around the world and giving the opportunity to taste limited-edition ramen from Hokkaido island and Tohoku region. Visitors can also design their personal soup packet at the “My Cupnoodles” Factory.
Spy Museum, Washington DC, USA
Love spy movies or novels? Then this museum is for you! International Spy Museum in Washington DC has the largest public collection of espionage artifacts that includes various gadgets, cameras, secret weapons, cipher machines, and counterfeit money.
It’s a rare chance to take a look at this secret profession and see how it’s developed over the years.
Museum visitors can participate in interactive spy adventures, watch never-seen-before videos of spies and revel in the impressive photo collection. And who wouldn’t wish for a super-gadget that would help make life easier, to help you in high-stakes situations like basketball betting on BetAmerica.com?
Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, New Delhi, India
Roughguides.com names the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, New Delhi, India, which shows the history of hygiene and sanitation from 2500 B.C. to today, as one of the weirdest museums a person can visit.
The visitors can see the toilet evolution over the ages – from Roman emperors’ gold-plated toilets to medieval toilets of peasants. A fun fact – you can find a collection of rare toilet poems in the museum as well.
British Lawnmower Museum, Merseyside, England
Can there be something more British than a Lawnmower museum? If you’re a garden enthusiast or simply like quirky things, you must visit the museum, which details this garden tool’s history.
You’ll find such items as the lawnmowers of Prince Charles and Princess Diana or the world’s first solar-powered robot grass-chopper in the collection. Probably the cutest lawnmower at the museum is less than five centimeters high and is fully functional!
Siriraj Medical Museum (Museum of Death), Bangkok, Thailand
If it sounds scary, that’s because it is. Even though officially named a Medical museum, most people call it simply the museum of death. If you’re squeamish or find the subject distressing, it’s probably best to skip this one.
You’ll find severed and mutilated legs and arms, brains, skulls pierced with bullets, lungs that have been stabbed, and other similar things in the collection. They all illustrate the dark and gruesome ways to transition to death and leave no one indifferent.
If that’s not enough, you can also see the mummified body of a notorious cannibal Si Quey and the museum’s founder’s skeleton.
The Museum of Broken Relationships, Zagreb, Croatia
It is just as sad and beautiful as it sounds. It started as a joke by two Croatian artists who broke up after a long relationship and said they wanted to create a museum to honor it. Well, they did, and it blew up all over the world.
You can see various mementos from people’s relationships in different countries that include an ax used to destroy a cheating partner’s furniture, jewelry, postcards, and more.
Paris Sewer Museum, France
Nobody likes to talk about it, but sewer systems are the basis for a civilized society! However, it’s not the first or even the fifth thing people want to see when visiting the city of love.
Still, it’s so fascinating and complex. Lifehack.org explains that it’s an entire network of tunnels as large as the city itself, and also a museum that tourists can visit and explored, complete with tour guides. Don’t worry, it doesn’t smell that bad, and you’ll see a part of Paris you never thought you would. For the Silo, Milda Urbonaite.
Many non-native plants can happily survive in other regions of the world, which has given gardeners more choice than ever before. However, native flowers and plants can summarize the landscape of a nation, while communicating the identity of a country.
For many countries the national flower is second only to the national flag as the most important national symbol, while communicating the identity of a country.
As the world mourns the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, we undoubtedly acknowledge the scope of her public service for over 70 years. She is one of the most recognized and famous people on the face of the earth.
My parents travelled to England when I was young and could (hope to) catch glimpses of the Royal Family, including the Queen, outside Buckingham Palace. My family, one could say, became Royal Watchers. Years later, I’d be hired by former MPP Toby Barrett UE who I quickly learned harbored profound respect for Queen Elizabeth II.
Shortly after officially becoming our longest reigning Monarch, Toby penned a newspaper column that began with: “Queen Elizabeth II is the only British Monarch in history properly trained to change a spark plug!” As Toby said at the time, the statement exemplified the character of our Queen.
Elizabeth learned to change a spark plug at 18 (during the Second World War) after joining the British Army Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service. She served as an army truck mechanic and as an ambulance and army truck driver.
Elizabeth carried an incredible responsibility throughout her life, beginning at a young age. Upon taking the throne in 1952, she witnessed enormous social change. At 25, Elizabeth became Queen, and was officially crowned at her coronation two years later.
During her reign, Queen Elizabeth visited Canada more than any other country – 22 times. She must have had a special place in her heart for our country and its people, as she was known to refer to Canada as home. From the outpouring of sentiments, the feeling was indeed mutual.
On September 8th, the Queen’s children travelled to Balmoral, near Aberdeen, after physicians placed her under medical supervision. Later in the day Thursday, news spread that the Queen had passed away peacefully in the afternoon. A sad, solemn day.
Queen Elizabeth II officially made Liz Truss Britain’s prime minister two days before her passing. Truss would become the 15th prime minister to meet with the Queen. The meeting was at Balmoral Castle, in the Scottish countryside, where Boris Johnson first arrived to begin the power transfer. The first prime minister the Queen met with during her reign was Winston Churchill – a leader I often quote.
Last Thursday, Prime Minister Truss described Queen Elizabeth II as the rock on which modern Britain was built and continued by saying that she had “provided us with the stability and strength that we needed.” In times of adversity, the Queen has steadied nations with her strength and stoicism – the embodiment of a true leader.
Succession plans have long been in place, and the Queen’s son, Charles III, will become King. As an aside, I met Prince Charles and Camilla a few years back at a function in Toronto. It was a cheeky meeting and one I will never forget.
While we all come to grips with the passing of a lady who impacted our lives in ways, we did not realize, Britain is preparing to usher in a new era in the nation’s fascinating history. Britain, Canada and the Commonwealth will undoubtedly embrace the King and offer him loyalty and devotion, exactly as Her Majesty would have wished.
For the Silo, by Bobbi Ann Brady MPP Haldimand-Norfolk
Who is Sir Norman Foster? A British born architect world renowned for his ground-breaking interpretations of neo futuristic and post-modern design, that’s who.
Perhaps most famously known for designing and constructing “The Gherkin” tower in London, England at a cost of 138 million pounds. This office building is sure to turn the heads of tourists and Londoners alike.
Only days after it was announced that 51% of British adults have received at least one doses of their COVID vaccine, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that people may need to present a vaccination certificate in order to go to the pub. One month ago, Johnson had said that this would not be the case.
One Year Later
When the UK first entered lockdown one year ago, Johnson recognized he was “taking away the ancient, inalienable right of free-born people of the United Kingdom to go to the pub” but now he is suggesting limits on how many of them will be given back that right.
British political analyst and commentator Jonathan Sacerdoti says the UK’s vaccination program has been impressive, beating the rest of Europe by far. “This has been for three main reasons,” he explains. “Firstly, the UK implemented skillful procurement of vaccines, which enabled the country to ensure a plentiful if varying supply level of the newly developed vaccines. Having finally broken free of the European Union after years of Brexit back-and-forth, the UK was able to make its own decisions just in time, and signed early and favorable contracts with vaccine manufacturers.”
AstraZeneca
“Secondly, the UK also invested in developing its own vaccine, the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine. This has offered a far cheaper alternative to the Pfizer BioNtech vaccine which the UK is also using, and is far easier to transport. It does not require the deep refrigeration that some other vaccines do, and it can therefore also be administered in pharmacists and smaller medical practices, or even in old age homes, rather than only in mass vaccination centers. Despite some concerns over possible blood clots as a side effect, the vaccine is widely accepted to be safe and effective. It has enabled the UK to make progress with vaccinating its population quickly, and promises to help vaccinate poorer countries around the world.”
Extended Dosage Gap
“Thirdly, the UK made the controversial decision to extend the gap between the two vaccine doses each person needs, from 21 days to 12 weeks. This was not backed up but he vaccine makers’ research, but was based on wider knowledge of immunology and how other vaccines have been developed. At the time it was seen as highly controversial and even risky. But ongoing testing for antibodies has shown a continued, strong immune response even with the prolonged gap. This single decision has enabled the country to effectively provide a high level of protection to double the number of people in the same time. As long as vaccine supply and availability continue uninterrupted, the second doses will be given within 12 weeks and the population will continue to benefit both individually and as a whole.”
EU Lags
Meanwhile, the European Union is lagging far behind in its rate of vaccination, causing a rift between the bloc and its recent ex-member state the UK. Threats of banning or controlling exports of vaccines manufactured in the EU to countries which are far ahead in their programs has caused a diplomatic war of words. The UK determined to have its commercial contracts fulfilled regardless of the EU’s weak performance in acquiring and administering vaccines. The EU is desperate to claw back more vaccines for use in its own countries, despite slow progress in administering them.
Jonathan Sacerdoti is a British broadcaster and social commentator, widely featured on British and international television and media. He provides commentary for a wide range of TV stations including regular appearances on the BBC (including on their international show Dateline London) and the UK’s Sky News. He also appears on Channel 4 News, Al Jazeera English, NDTV in India, France 24, i24News Cheddar News and others. He has been published by the Daily Telegraph, The Spectator, the New Statesman and Jewish Chronicle. He is also a well-known campaigner on racism issues.
I had reason to visit and work at Abbey Road Studio in London, and it still seems surreal!! My colleague Jayson Tomlin, Gary Katz (producer of Steely Dan), and myself were there to do testing and evaluation of some new technologies we’ve been working on for broadcast and consumer applications.
We spent a full day working in one of the mix-down studios, along with members of the BBC, Scotland Yard, Abbey Road, David Perreau, Felix Konrad, and some of Gary’s record producer ‘buddies”…Hugh Padgham (Genesis, Rush, Phil Collins, Police, Sting, XTC), and Elliott Randall (studio guitarist for Steely Dan).
Frank with Hugh Padgham (left) and Gary Katz (right)
Our connection with Gary has enabled us to connect with key members of the music production world, which in turn has enabled us to further evolve technologies for broadcast, and soon the consumer markets. Our work at Abbey Road was another step along this process, and it raised the bar for us, on what is expected of our products.
Frank on the steps of Abbey Road Studios
Being able to set foot into the building and studio where the Beatles recorded and produced all of their material was breathtaking. I’ll never forget, as we were wrapping up the events for the day, the studio engineer, whom we were working with, said “hey guys come with me, two is now open!” In my mind I’m thinking “this is where all the ‘magic’ happened.” So, off we went, and sure enough we walk into studio #2, and it’s still pretty much the same as if John, Paul, George, and Ringo were there the day before. Getting chills—again—as I write this!!
Jayson Tomlin and others take in Studio #2
Probably the most gratifying moment that day was towards the end. Hugh Padgham had been listening to some tech I’d developed, and told me how he’d done work with the late George Martin. His comment was how he had a good sense about how George produced the Beatles, and could we apply my ‘gizmo’ to their music.
Abbey Road Cafeteria
So…in the building they recorded the album Abbey Road, we added some treatment to the song “Golden Slumbers.” Together, all of us were in awe to hear the Beatles music, with some treatment from our efforts, done at Abbey Road!
Tape deck used in the recording of Sgt. Pepper’s
There’s a skylight in the ceiling of the studio we were working in. While listening, I looked upward through the skylight, and thought, “if Mr. Martin, Mr. Lennon, and Mr. Harrison are listening, my hope is you won’t feel I let you down.” I felt a tear trickle down upon having this thought. Quite possibly one of the coolest occurrences in this boy’s life!!
Frank between pianos used for the Beatles’ “Get Back” and John Lennon’s “Imagine”
Modestly, it was reassuring when each of our well-known music industry guests gave us the “thumbs up’ for our efforts. Further indication of how our little organization keeps growing and raising the bar! In closing, my sincere thanks to Jayson Tomlin, Gary Katz, Hugh Padgham, Andrew Scheps, and Elliott Randall for your feedback and friendship!!
Recording mixer used to record Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon
Pre-Christmas debate in the Ontario Legislature provided me an opportunity to highlight upcoming changes in parliamentary protocol, and procedure with respect to the Crown. For example, a change to the Legislature’s Standing Orders will add a clause: “Following prayers on the first sitting Monday of each month, the Canadian national anthem and the Royal Anthem shall be sung in the chamber.” Although I love the concept, I can’t recall hearing parliamentarians singing “God Save the Queen” in the legislative chamber. I find this strange, considering every elected member has sworn allegiance to the reigning monarch – I would assume since the times of Loyalist Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe – in the House since 1792.
Through all that, what hasn’t wavered is the admiration, respect, and affection people in Ontario feel for the Royal Family. Something else that hasn’t changed is the anticipation loyal Ontarians and Royal Watchers have each year for the Queen’s Christmas message. Our Queen’s grandfather, King George the Fifth, initiated the Christmas message in 1932. He was initially unsure about using radio in this manner, but a visit to the BBC to see their cutting-edge technology reassured him.
The first Christmas message was written by poet and writer Rudyard Kipling. The first sentence being: “I speak now from my home and from my heart to you all; to men and women so cut off by the snows, the desert, or the sea that only voices out of the air can reach them.” The first televised message was broadcast live in 1957. It allowed viewers to see the Queen in her own residence, decorated for Christmas like many viewers’ homes. As I read through my favourites of the Queen’s Christmas message, it impresses me how tied to current events – both good and bad – they are. I was touched by her humanity when she mentioned the 2018 Manchester bombing tragedy -truly a monarch with a heart and conscience. Throughout her 68-year reign, Her Majesty has demonstrated tremendous dedication to serving the public. It is a commitment that has inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps. She has been involved in the work of hundreds of organizations, charities, and causes and has met more people than any other monarch in the United Kingdom and elsewhere in the Commonwealth.
Her humanity and commitment to good causes fits perfectly into the spirit of the Christmas season, and is the main reason, year after year, millions eagerly tune in to hear her speak. Christmas is the time of year that brings us together and reminds us to appreciate those in our lives. May Christmas fill you with joy and peace, and the yuletide spirit fill your heart and home with laughter, harmony and many blessings. From my family and staff, have a wonderful Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year. God Save the Queen. For the Silo, Toby Barrett MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk.
Luxurious living, money and fame are things that spring to mind when thinking about hotels London. Many of them have stood the test of time and built a sterling reputation all over the world attracting many of the rich and famous.
Here we’ve compiled a list of the most renowned hotels in London.
Claridge’s, London
Claridge’s London- 5 Star Hotel. Address: 49 Brook St, London, Greater London W1K 4HR, United Kingdom
Opened in 1854 Claridges London is one of the oldest hotels in the city. Located in London’s infamous Mayfair, Its clientele are among the rich and famous with celebrities such as Brad Pitt and Mick Jagger no stranger to its doors. TV favorite Gordon Ramsay also had his own restaurant there for a time.
Its décor and facilities boast the best in fine dining and luxury living unrivalled in London and has over its long lifespan attracted royalty from all over the world. The hotel was also the feature of a 3 part documentary series for the BBC entitled ‘Inside Claridges’.
The Connaught, London
The Connaught London. Five star Hotel. Carlos Pl, London W1K 2AL, United Kingdom
Residing in Mayfair, the Connaught first opened its doors in 1815. The hotel allows both traditional British and contemporary design to co-exist by maintaining its Victorian exterior and completing a 70 million pound internal refurbishment by lead designer Guy Oliver.
This hotel and its staff have won many prestigious awards over its lifespan including its spa winning first prize in the spa category in the Hotel & Lodge Awards 2012 and it’s very own bartender Agostino Perrone winning International Bartender of the Year 2010.
Brown’s, London
Brown’s Hotel London. Five star Hotel. 33 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP, United Kingdom
One of London’s most established hotels is Browns. Opening its doors in 1837, it celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2012 and has consistently attracted guests of wealth and fame, most notably President Theodore Roosevelt and Oscar Wilde.
Not only does this Mayfair hotel boast a stunning Victorian 5 star setting it is also within walking distance to some of London’s busiest attractions such as Hyde Park, Bond Street, Regent Street and some of its most famous landmarks.
The Great Northern Hotel
First opened in 1854, London’s Great Northern Hotel is “an exquisitely designed luxury boutique hotel with an extraordinary location, literally within King’s Cross Station and just 25 metres from the Eurostar terminus at St Pancras International.”
Dubbed as ‘The World’s First Great Railway Hotel’ , The Great Northern is a stunning boutique hotel with rail connections to Europe and beyond via the Eurostar. It stands tall above the areas surrounding buildings and it’s a significant point of interest for all arriving into Kings Cross St Pancras station.
Designed by infamous architect Lewis Cubitt stood as the centrepiece for the steam revolution.
The Berkeley
The Berkeley Hotel London is a five star Hotel. Wilton Pl, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL, United Kingdom
The Berkeley is a five star deluxe hotel, located in Knightsbridge, London. Its history spans well over a 100 years and has even moved buildings. The infamous hotel began its life at Berkeley Street and served as accommodation for mail coach drivers travelling to the West Country.
In 1972 it moved to its current location, incorporating an entirely new refurbishment to include London’s only rooftop swimming pool. Aside from its unique facilities and décor the Berkleley has attracted numerous Michelin star chefs including Pierre Koffmann and more recently Gordon Ramsay and his Boxwood Café. For the Silo, Susan Varano.
Thinking of getting fit but need a challenge to really motivate you? Or perhaps you just want to test your fitness against some of the toughest challenges the UK has to offer. Then perhaps you’d like to look through this guide to find out what event will suit you best- brought to the Silo by our friends at The Craig Manor Hotel in Bowness, Windemere, England.
The guide below includes some of the UK’s biggest and best endurance races that are open for all to enjoy. There are assault courses that will get you muddy, extreme swims, brutal cycles and runs that make marathons look like a walk in the park.
We’ve added a ‘Brownlee meter’ to try and put just how tough these races are into context, but beware; this is all relative and even the lowest rated events will require lots of training and superior fitness levels.
As the civic holiday some refer to as Simcoe Day approaches, I wish to shine light on Upper Canada’s first lieutenant-governor.
Born Feb. 25, 1752, in England, John Graves Simcoe, although best known as lieutenant-governor, was also a member of British Parliament, colonial administrator, army officer, and commander of the Queen’s Rangers during the Revolutionary War.
Largely comprised of Loyalists and deserters from George Washington’s army, the Queen’s Rangers were named in tribute to Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George the Third. As a 400-man elite fighting force, established during the Seven Years War (1756-1763), they trained in woodcraft, scouting and guerilla warfare. Simcoe didn’t follow the protocol of the time of strict and rigid maneuvers. The Rangers wore green uniforms for camouflage, depended on speed and surprise, and were known to defeat forces three times their size.
Simcoe took time from the war to pursue a young lady named Sarah “Sally” Townsend. On Feb. 14, 1779, he sent her a poem in which he extolled her beauty and his love for her – the first recorded Valentine’s Day letter in North America.
That year Simcoe was ambushed by rebels, captured and imprisoned in New Jersey. He was treated harshly and his one attempt at escape was foiled. He was finally released on the signature of Benjamin Franklin as part of a prisoner of war exchange.
Following the defeat of the British at Yorktown in 1781, Simcoe spirited the Queen’s Rangers colours to England. Today they are on display in the officers’ mess of the Queen’s Rangers at Fort York, Toronto.
Simcoe returned to England, married Elizabeth Posthuma Gwilliam and was elected Member of Parliament for the borough of St. Maws, Cornwall.
On Sept. 12, 1791, Simcoe was appointed lieutenant-governor of the newly-created Upper Canada.
With his appointment, Simcoe had a goal to develop Upper Canada as a model community with aristocratic and conservative principles, and to demonstrate the superiority of these ideas in contrast to the Republicanism of the United States.
He opened the first elected parliament in what is now Ontario 225 years ago on Sept. 17, 1792. He is credited for installing British common law, trial by jury, the standardization of weights and measures and the establishment of Ontario’s system of municipal government.
In 1793, under Simcoe, the assembly passed the first act against the importation of slaves in the British Empire. Slavery had completely ended in Upper Canada before it was abolished in the British Empire as a whole in 1834.
Simcoe realized Newark was an unsuitable capital because it was on the border and open to attack. He suggested moving the capital to a defensible position, named the location London and renamed its main river the Thames. This proposal was rejected, but Simcoe’s second choice, the present site of Toronto, was accepted. The capital was moved there in 1793 and renamed York.
The Queen’s Rangers were revived and Simcoe had them begin construction on Yonge Street.
Simcoe returned to England for health reasons in July 1796 and died there on Oct. 26, 1806.
Over two centuries later, many refer to the Civic Holiday in August as Simcoe Day. Attempts to give Simcoe Day provincial recognition has failed.
To celebrate Ontario’s 225th; visit my web site at www.tobybarrett.com to test your knowledge of our province.
Most patterns in crop circle formations are not readily visible from the ground.
Most tangible of Earth mystery
Created anew each year
On underground currents of energy
By sacred sites do appear –
Bedazzle us with your beauty yet again!
There are few mysteries more accessible than crop circles. Each spring and summer these enigmatic patterns appear overnight in crop fields, particularly around the Avebury landscape temple in Wiltshire, England. Whenever possible we enter these beautiful creations within hours of their forming, when the energy of a genuine formation is at its strongest. Cosmic works of art, ET communications in sacred geometric format, pranksters’ hoaxes, spiritual guidance or a warning voice from Gaia, whatever your opinion crop circles are fascinating and truly remarkable.
We have access to the information network that provides breaking news on the latest formations. Some days expert researchers will join us in the circles to share their knowledge and perspectives with us, showing us what to look for or how to dowse for any energy present. You may want to sit quietly in meditation, try and discover what the pattern is (often difficult to tell from the ground inside a formation) or dance with the flow of the lain stalks. Everyone reacts differently to crop circles but no-one can ignore them.
This part of England is also home to some of the world’s most powerful ancient sacred sites including Stonehenge, Avebury and Glastonbury. We will take time to truly experience these places of power including exclusive access to the world famous Stonehenge for a private visit outside of normal hours. Being based close to the World Heritage Site of Avebury Landscape Temple we have daily access to such sites as Silbury Hill, West Kennet Long Barrow and the Sanctuary. In historic Glastonbury we will visit the Abbey, Chalice Well and the Tor.
We’re also offering a pre-tour extension to attend the prestigious Summer Crop Circle Lectures where you will hear fascinating presentations and meet the presenters as well as all the other ardent ‘croppies’.
Track 7 Disc 2: “Trampled Underfoot”
Tour Highlights:
• Visits into crop circles
• An optional helicopter flight over these exquisite patterns
• Private out-of-hours access into Stonehenge
• Attendance at the world’s leading Crop Circle Conference with International researchers
• Visits to some of England’s most powerful sacred sites
Supplemental- Crop circles discovered West of Port Dover, Ontario?
