Gnome Travels – Montreal, Canada

June 18th, 2010

Whether you’re looking for a taste of European history or simply want to explore a new culture without crossing an ocean, Montreal has much to offer to a traveler and his Gnome.

Actually an island bordered by two rivers in southwest Quebec, this Canadian city is sure to meet all visitors’ expectations. From its mesmerizing art and buildings to a host of nature- and entertainment-related activities, you and your Gnome will find yourselves with jam-packed schedules as you work to cram as much adventure as possible into your stay.

Be sure to make a stop at the majestic Notre Dame Basilica, where you can admire the architecture and stained glass. Attend Mass to hear the choir harmonize with the pipe organ, or visit during the evening to take in the “And Then There Was Light” sound and light show, which spotlights the church’s history, architecture and artwork.

Like most of the world’s top tourist destinations, Montreal is home to a slew of museums showcasing all sorts of artifacts and cultural samples. If museums are appealing to you and your Gnome, you won’t want to miss the Pointe-a-Calliere archaeological museum or the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art.

For a bird’s-eye view of Montreal, ascend 575 feet to the Montreal Tower Observatory, which allows visitors to see 50 miles across the city. Highlights will include sights of the Laurentian Mountains and the site of the 1976 Olympics Games. You will also have the option of later taking a tour of the Olympic pools and stadium.

You can also obtain a less dramatic view of the city by biking, driving or walking to the Mount Royal Summit. Mount Royal offers a host of activities, ranging from bird-watching spots to a playground where your Gnome can run freely. On Sunday mornings from spring to fall, Mount Royal is home to Tam Tams, drummers’ jam sessions that attract crowds of listeners and dancers. You and your Gnome will soon be bopping to the rhythmic beat of the assorted drums.

Other seasonal festivals include February’s Montreal High Lights Festival, which draws 750,000 attendees with its performing arts shows, fireworks, food and other entertainment. Summer visitors will find hours of entertainment at the Montreal International Jazz Festival, which boasts musicians from around the world who perform hundreds of concerts from late June to early July.

Want to reconnect with some of Montreal’s (not-so-dearly) departed? Sign up for a ghost walk led by a tour guide who will point out scenes of famous crimes, hangings, political demonstrations and fires. Stay close to your Gnome during this tour, which could easily cause goose bumps as you both keep your eyes peeled for a glimpse of a centuries-old Canadian.

If you prefer a less spooky evening activity, try the four-hour Montreal Dinner Cruise. You’ll enjoy a five-course meal (you’ll be surprised at how much your tiny travel bud can put away!) and views of the city’s beautiful lights.

For a more informal sampling of Montreal’s cuisine, visit Jean-Talon Market, where you can purchase fresh produce or sample chocolates, wines, baked goods and so much more. With so much food at your disposal, you’ll have to monitor your Gnome’s intake. Most Gnomes’ eyes, after all, are both literally and figuratively bigger than their stomachs.

One of the best parts about traveling to Montreal is that while the French language is prominently spoken, English is also widely used. While your Gnome may pick up a few new phases during your trip, there will be no need to learn a new language before you depart for your Canadian adventure. So go ahead and start planning your trip to Montreal today. Endless opportunities await.

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Share Your Travels – Ned the Navy Gnome Caribbean Cruise

May 6th, 2010

Recently Ned the Navy Gnome went on a 7 day Eastern Caribbean cruise. While on the cruise Ned the Navy Gnome went to such places as Half Moon Cay, Bahamas, St. Thomas, San Juan, Puerto Rico and finally the Island of Grand Turk. Ned the Navy Gnome enjoyed the ship, beach, sun and the overall adventure of traveling to far off places. While Ned the Navy Gnome was on the cruise ship he met a lot of interesting people that just adored him greatly. Ned the Navy Gnome is looking forward to more exciting new adventures in the near future.

Submitted by Michael

You can get a Ned the Navy Gnome of your own from GnomeFrenzy.

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Gnome Travels – Stockholm

May 6th, 2010

If a long winter has left you looking a little pasty, you’ll fit right in among the pale-skinned and haired Swedes in the capital city of Stockholm.

There is so much to capture the interest and conquer the appetites of a traveler and his Gnome in this historic Scandinavian city.

A visit to Stockholm’s Djurgarden island is a must. There, you can take a two-hour walking tour that allows you to explore historic churches, monuments, parks and museums.

If your Gnome is ready for an American-style adventure, stop by the Grona Lund amusement park. While you’ll find many traditional roller coasters, this park also offers a taste of Scandinavia with the Viking Ship ride.

Want more Viking experience? Head to the Vasa Museum, which features a sunken 17th-century ship that was salvaged just 50 years ago. The ornate ship will inspire awe in your Gnome, who will get to pretend he is a Viking aboard a grand vessel. You may have to assure him that this time the ship is in no danger of sinking.

Next, treat your Gnome — and yourself — to a taste of royal life by watching the Changing of the Guard in front of Stockholm Palace. Then, stick around for a tour of the 600-room palace, which houses the offices of Sweden’s king and queen. While you may not encounter the royal family, you will get to explore the Royal Apartments as well as the Tre Kronor Museum . You can learn about the Sweden’s original palace’s history, which stems from the 1600s. Your Gnome will soon be spouting off centuries-old trivia about the origin of this palace.

Be careful not to pack so much activity into your days that you’re exhausted at night. Stockholm is famous for its nightlife, which offers countless bars and clubs sure to provide experiences you’ll never forget. One place you must check out is Absolut Icebar Stockholm, where everything, from the bar itself to its cocktail glasses, is made from ice. If you think it sounds chilly inside, well, it is. It’s only 23 degrees Fahrenheit inside, which is why your admission ticket includes use of a cape and gloves to help keep you warm.

Stockholm also boasts more than 1,500 restaurants, leaving no excuse not to sample Sweden’s cuisine. Whether you want to indulge in Swedish meatballs or enjoy some fresh seafood, Den Gyldene Freden is one restaurant to try. The establishment opened in 1722, and much of its atmosphere reflects that deep history.

From Vikings to meatballs, there is much to enjoy in this historic city. So pack up your Gnome and bring your appetite and sense of adventure to Stockholm, which is sure to be one of your most memorable vacation destinations.

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Gnome Travels – Amsterdam

April 8th, 2010

Does your Gnome need a new pair of shoes? Treat him to a distinct style by picking up a pair of authentic wooden clogs during your trip to Amsterdam. You can even watch the wooden footwear being made and painted — calming your Gnomes fears that shoes are actually made by elves in the late hours of the night. Go ahead and choose a pair for yourself while you’re there.

Once you’re clothed in ethnic apparel, head for the water. Canal cruises are among the most popular activities for tourists, and are a great way to explore the city’s famous bridges, centuries-old mansions and architecture.

Of course, you can also choose to explore the city on foot. Put those new shoes to the test as you roam the streets, crossing some of Amsterdam’s 1,000 bridges and people-watching and dining in one of the city’s unparalleled cafes.

For another dose of Amsterdam’s culture, check out the city’s dozens of museums, which include the Van Gogh Museum, more contemporary styles at the Florescent Art Museum (bring your sunglasses along for this one!), and NEMO, which appeals to children and Gnomes alike with an array of hands-on exhibits in a boat-shaped building.

Be sure to also make a stop at Anne Frank House, where the brave young girl hid from the Nazis for more than two years. You’ll learn details of her experience from 1942-1944, when she lived undercover with seven others and wrote the diary entries that were later published.

Amsterdam is also known for its expansive flower markets. You and your Gnome will feel as through you’ve stumbled upon a massive garden when you visit Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, which merchandises an array of bulbs from houseboats. Each spring, the blooming tulips and narcissus in your Gnome’s gardens will serve as a reminder of your trip to the Netherlands.

If your Gnome is of legal age, you’ll want to bring him along to Amsterdam’s former Heineken Brewery, now called Heineken Experience, where you will learn about the history of the company and its famous beer. The museum features a ride that makes you feel as though you’re part of the brewing and bottling process, and stables that house the famous Heineken horses.

What are you waiting for? Spring is a fantastic time to visit Amsterdam, so book your trip with your Gnome today. With such an array of activities at your disposal, you’re sure to agree that it is among the most entertaining and well-rounded cities you will ever visit.

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Gnome Travels – Jamaica

March 19th, 2010

After being cooped up all winter, surely you’re more than ready for the warmth of the sun. A trip to Jamaica is the perfect way for both you and your Gnome to get a taste of the summer months ahead.

Jamaica immediately brings beautiful beaches to mind, and this Caribbean island will not disappoint. Just use plenty of sunscreen while soaking up those rays, as Gnomes’ protruding ears and noses tend to burn quite easily.

As much as they love to relax, Gnomes can’t stay sedentary for long. Luckily, this tropical island offers countless ways for people of all ages — and sizes — to stay active and entertained.

Head to Montego Bay or for a round of golf, while your Gnome snags a sun visor and hitches a ride in your golf bag. Afterward, cool off with a swim in the Blue Lagoon — so named for the eponymous movie starring Brooke Shields — or simply admire the brilliant hues, which vary with the sun’s position throughout the day.

If you want more time in the water — and, really, what Jamaica visitor doesn’t? — a trip to Dolphin Cove is a must. There, you can swim with dolphins (and sharks, too) or enjoy the marine life from the safety of a glass-bottom kayak. Be sure your Gnome has a properly secured life vest before embarking on any of these adventures, and that he keeps his distance from hungry fish.

Nearby, check out Dunn’s River Falls, which has been proclaimed one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls. Hold on tight to your Gnome as you climb 600 feet to the top of the falls, where you can watch the rushing water below.

You’re both sure to work up an appetite after so much activity and fresh air. For a taste of Jamaican cuisine, visit one of the jerk huts that line the island and serve up plates of spiced chicken, seafood and pork. These dishes come with a kick, so caution your Gnome to take small, careful bites.

Spend a night moving to the beat of reggae music, popularized by Bob Marley, who was born on the island. Visit the Bob Marley Museum in Jamaica’s capital city, Kingston, features photos and other momentos from the musician.

Kingston and its surrounding towns are also home to dozens of national monuments and historic sites, including the Institute of Jamaica, the Supreme Court and Devon House, which gives tourists a look at a colonial-era estate.

With so many activities at your disposal, you and your Gnome will find your Jamaican vacation flies by. However, the memories you create during these island adventures will last a lifetime.

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Gnome Travels – Egypt

February 26th, 2010

Egypt is famous for mummies and hieroglyphics, but there is so much more for a tourist and his Gnome to explore in this historic African country.

The Pyramid of Giza will be a highlight of your trip. One of the original Seven Wonders of the World, this attraction is actually composed of three main pyramids, each of which is an Egyptian king’s tomb.

You will marvel at these great structures, which historians believe took thousands of workers more than eight decades to construct, but your awe will pale in comparison to that of your Gnome, who is sure to experience a stiff neck after gazing up at these monstrous creations. He may need some reassurance, too, when he comes upon the Sphinx, a half-man, half-lion craved from a single, massive block of stone.

Want to see the pyramids from a different vantage point? Sign up for a camel ride through the desert. Let your Gnome perch atop the camel’s back as you pass by the ancient tombs.

While the Giza pyramids are probably most well known, they are not the only ancient tombs. The Pyramids at Dahshur include the Bent Pyramid, so named for its unusual appearance, and the Red Pyramid, which was constructed from colored limestone. The Red Pyramid will be particularly interesting to you and your Gnome, as you’ll be able to explore the inside.

Also fascinating is the Valley of the Kings, a series of tombs built for pharaohs including Tutankhamen. King Tut’s collection of priceless jewelry and artifacts can be viewed at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo– a one-stop shop where you and your Gnome to get your fill of all things Egyptian.

Of course, no trip to Egypt would be complete without checking out the Nile River. We suggest booking a tour so that you get the most out of your adventure (and so you won’t lose your way. If you’ve never been lost in an ancient land with just a Gnome for company, well, you want to keep it that way.) Instead, indulge in a five-day cruise, which includes opportunities for guided tours, hot-air balloon rides and ethnic food and entertainment.

If you haven’t quite had your fill of nature, plan a hiking tour through the White Desert, where you can spend a night under the stars , or climb up Mount Sinai to witness a spectacular sunrise or sunset.

Your Gnome will surely miss the ancient land when he returns home. You can help ease the transition by helping him construct his very own pyramid (luckily, a small-scale version will suffice) and perhaps by giving him a recording of The Bangles’ 1986 hit single. In no time at all, you’ll find him in his garden, walking like a native Egyptian.

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Gnome Travels – Tokyo, Japan

January 27th, 2010

Japan may be known for its cars and anime, but the country has so much more to offer its visitors. Here are just a sampling of stops you’ll want to put on your itinerary when you and your Gnome embark for Tokyo.

First thing’s first. You and your Gnome will want to immerse yourselves in Japanese culture. Neither of you will forget shopping for your first silk kimono (and don’t forget the obi — that’s the belt that holds it closed) at the Oriental Bazaar. Choose from the countless colors and patterns that appear on this traditional apparel, most often worn today for special occasions. You have no place to wear it, you say? Well, in our book, there’s nothing more special than a trip to Japan with a Gnome. So go ahead, get some use out of it while you’re there.

Once you’re dressed, you’ll need a place to go. We suggest taking a quick course to learn about the Japanese tea ceremony. Tea gatherings, which in addition to the hot beverage can include sweets or sometime an entire meal, include a string of rituals that include all guests drinking from the same bowl. When it’s your Gnome’s turn to partake, you’ll want to grab hold of his ankles to prevent him from plunging headfirst into the bowl of steaming tea.

The content post-tea feeling might not last long. There’s no better way to energize yourself than by attending a sumo match at Kokugikan Stadium. You’ll want to reserve your tickets well in advance to ensure you’ll have a seat as these oversized men engage in battle. Keep your Gnome’s enthusiasm in check by making sure he stays appropriately dressed. The locals may frown upon him if he insists on prancing about, looking for an opponent, wearing nothing but a strategically placed obi.

If you haven’t yet had your fill of Japanese culture, you’ll get more than your fill by visiting some of Tokyo’s well-known museums. Whether you like modern art, folk crafts or swords, there’s a museum sure to please you and your tiny robed companion.

Want some divine assistance in the future? Stop at Tokyo’s oldest temple, Sensoji, which according to legend was originally built more than 2,000 years ago to house a gold statute of the goddess Kannon. Visitors crowd the temple, asking the goddess for favors. If you want a more immediate response, ask a monk for assistance in translating your fortune pertaining to work, relationships and travel. If you receive a less-than-favorable reading, don’t worry. According to tradition, you have the power to change your outlook if you discard the fortune by tying the message to a nearby tree. So don’t give up until the future looks bright for both you and your Gnome.

Like many popular tourist destinations, Tokyo is not without its share of aquariums, gardens, amusement parks and baseball parks. So if you’re looking to enjoy a familiar activity in a foreign place, consider cheering on the Yomiuri Giants, visiting the Sunshine International Aquarium, perusing the tropical plants at Shinjuku Garden or, for a true connection to the U.S., spending a day at the Tokyo Disneyland Resort.

Just make sure your Gnome is on his best behavior. The creatures are known for their efforts to make a home for themselves among Snow White’s dwarves. If you notice an eighth member of the mining crew (he’ll be pretty conspicuous in his silk robe), pluck him from the crowd and issue this reminder: While it’s common to want a vacation to last a lifetime, if he doesn’t follow you back home, he will miss out on your next adventure together.

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Gnome Travels – Moscow, Russia

January 15th, 2010

The Kremlin, Red Square and Lenin Mausoleum are just a few attractions you won’t want to miss when you head off to Moscow, Russia.

Moscow’s powerhouse is the Kremlin, which houses cathedrals, government buildings, an array of palaces, and the State Armory, which contains royal treasures dating back to Medieval times. You’ll want to consider taking your Gnome on an organized tour of the grounds so that you don’t miss anything. Then, return in the evening to see the illuminated towers. It will be a sight neither you nor your Gnome will forget.

Just as memorable will be your visit to Red Square, where you’ll be able to explore the ornate St. Basil’s Cathedral, which is made up of nine connected chapels, and the Lenin Mausoleum. You’ll want to think twice before letting your Gnome accompany you for this one, as he might be alarmed to discover Vladimir Lenin’s mummified body is visible through a glass tomb.

No trip abroad is complete without exploring the region’s cultural art. Moscow boasts the Pushkin Fine Arts Museum, where you can see works from such artists as Monet and Cezanne, and the Central House of Artists, which contains both international modern art and the Tretyakov Gallery, where you’ll find an enormous collection of Soviet art.

Be sure to also plan stops at the Gorky Park amusement park which has inspired a novel and movie; the Seven Sisters, the name given to seven skyscrapers commissioned by Jozef Stalin that are prominent on the skyline; and Moscow’s famous Old Arbat, a pedestrian street lined with cafes, artists and souvenir shops.

As a keepsake, pick up some of Russia’s famous nesting dolls. The hollow, wooden dolls fit inside one another and can also be displayed individually. The smaller ones will make great knick-knacks for your Gnome, while the largest one will make a great silent roommate, and might even be roomy enough for him to hide inside. He’ll consider it the Russian version of a Trojan horse.

After admiring so much art and distinctive architecture, your Gnome is sure to be inspired. If he decides that he, too, wants to live in a colorful dome-topped structure like the ones that dot the Russian landscape, but is not quite ready to relocate, consider a creative compromise. The next time damp weather brings a crop of mushrooms to your yard, give your Gnome a painter’s palette and let him add some exotic flair to his habitat. The results will serve as a welcome reminder of your visit to Moscow.

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Gnome Travels – Sydney, Australia

December 4th, 2009

G’day mate! This greeting comes to you from beautiful Sydney, Australia — home of kangaroos and koalas and so much more.

There’s so much to experience in Australia that we wanted to give you a hand planning your vacation. If your knowledge of the land Down Under is limited to scenes from “Crocodile Dundee,” you’ll want to review these suggestions before you collect your Gnome for your latest adventure.

No visitor will want to pass up a trip to the Blue Mountains. The range – which truly looks blue – is covered in eucalyptus and offers breath-taking views of nature. Buy a ticket to the Scenic Skyway, which will elevate you 1,000 feet, or hop aboard the Scenic Railway, which travels down the world’s steepest railway include, ending in the heavily forested Jamison Valley. Your nature-loving Gnome’s eyes will be trained on his surroundings, as he imagines himself trading his flower garden for such a grand environment.

Your Gnome might need reassurance that you’re not using him as bait when you take him for a ride on the Sydney Aquarium’s glass-bottom “Shark Explorer” boat, which will take you through the Great Barrier Reef. If you find winged creatures or furry friends more appealing, stop next door at Sydney Wildlife World, where you can explore a rainforest habitat, see a koala bear sanctuary or watch wallabies leap among rocky cliffs. You’ll want to make sure your Gnome doesn’t slip inside a marsupial’s pouch for a ride.

If you still haven’t had your fill of animal antics, make a stop at the Taronga Zoo, where you can see everything from enormous elephants to cuddly newborn koalas. Or head back to the sea for a whale-watching adventure. Whale-watching excursions are held from May through December, during which time you are likely to glimpse humpback whales and dolphins from the safety of a tour boat.

Australia, of course, offers so much more than brushes with nature. When you’re ready to kick back and watch a movie, do so at Sydney’s OpenAir Cinema, which plays popular films on an oversized outdoor screen. Arrive early to join your Gnome for an Australian sunset over the city’s skyline. The Cinema is located right beside Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a giant seat carved into a rock ledge overlooking the harbor.

After these experiences, chances are you’ll begin to feel like a true Australian. If you want to truly fit in, you might want to brush up on some often-used slang used by the natives. We suggest reviewing this useful site, where you will learn that a barbie isn’t a plastic doll, but a barbecue pit, and that rogaining has nothing to do with hair growth. If your Gnome is of the sports variety, he may also find it useful to know that Australian football is known by locals as “footy.” He’ll soon be barracking with the best of them. (By now, you’ve likely guessed this has no political connotation.)

With these tips, mate, you’re as ready as you’ll ever be to head Down Under. Stick to these recommendations, avoid the crocodiles, and you’ll be just fine.

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Gnome Travels – Rio de Janerio

November 3rd, 2009

Why wait until 2016 to plan a trip to Rio de Janeiro? After all, there is so much more to experience than Olympic sports in this Brazilian city.

Tell your Gnome to pack his life vest so he’s safe during your visit to the famous Copacabana beach. Go for a swim in the calm waters and then for a walk down the promenade to dry off and catch some rays. See which of you can count the most hotels in this popular tourist destination. Believe it or not, there are more than 60!

While in Rio de Janeiro, you won’t want to miss seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World (as named in 2007). The 120-foot Christ the Redeemer statue stands at the peak of the Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park.

Your Gnome will also get a kick out of riding the cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. Make sure he’s secure in his seat as the car elevates 2,000 feet, providing views of Copacabana and the rare chance for both of you to feel on top of the world.

If you haven’t quite had your fill of Brazil’s beauty, you’ll want to stop at Passeio Publico, the country’s oldest public park, which boasts fountains and various other works of art among landscaping.

Be sure to bring along your dancing shoes … Rio de Janeiro is known for the samba, even going as far as to celebrate Samba National Day on December 2. Samba is also a traditional part of Rio’s annual four-day Carnival celebration, which kicks off the Lenten season. The Sambodrome hosts spectators of the Samba Parade, which takes place on the street below. Before you know it, you and your Gnome will both be moving to the beat of these rhythmic tunes.

Rio de Janeiro’s culture isn’t limited to dance. The city is home to a number of museums, including the National Museum of Fine Arts and the National Historical Museum, which contains more than 287,000 pieces ranging from vases to royal artifacts.

If your Gnome prefers sports to fine art, you’ll want to treat him to a tour of Maracana Stadium, which is one of the world’s largest football stadiums. With seating for nearly 89,000 spectators, Maracana is slated to hold the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Games. Take in a club game or let your Gnome frolic on the empty field, pretending to be a notable athlete.

From lazy days on the beach to an array of cultural opportunities, Rio de Janeiro truly offers something to please all tastes. So plan your itinerary and pack up your Gnome. South America awaits your arrival.

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