California – The Golden State

Sacramento’s forgotten nickname, “The Big Tomato”, dates back to its canning days. A combination of climate, water, agriculture and transportation led to this success. If one wasn’t working for the railroads, the canning industry was the likely occupation. Sacramento had 20+ canneries in the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the largest and second largest in the world. Any number of fruits and vegetables were canned, but tomatoes was the largest crop.

Friday, April 26 – Today I would take the 3-hour Amtrak Capitol Corridor from San Jose to Sacramento, California’s state capitol. There are numerous trains each day. This was an absolutely amazing train trip, hugging the shoreline of San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, continuing up the Sacramento River, skimming the edge of the San Joaquin Delta, then traveling through wetlands and farmsteads of Fairfield, Vacaville (Nut Tree), Davis and ending in downtown Sacramento. The scenery was beautiful! Monday, I’ll get to do it again, in reverse, terminating in Oakland.

Go By Train!

1926 Sacramento Station

Farm To Fork

Sacramento Sister Cities – But to Which Countries?

1884 HI Sacramento Hostel

The Hostel is only 5 short blocks from train station.

Lobby

Parlors

Dining Area

Room 24, Bed 7 – 8-Person Dorm

My goal today was to take a State Capitol Tour. The free tour began @ 2:30 PM. Many of the historic ground floor offices have been converted to museum displays. California State Parks is responsible for the displays and tours. A major expansion is going on the backside of the building, removing the circa-1950’s annex and replacing it with a modern addition.

Historic 1906 Governor’s Office

Assembly Chamber

Governor Arnold Schwatzenager Official Portrait

Governor & President Ronald Reagan

Eureka! I Have Found It!

The Backside of Government

Behind the State Capitol is the beautiful and extensive Capitol Park. Currently much of it is fenced off as the construction expansion project progresses.

Climbing Rose Altissimo

Capital Park Cactus Garden

Native Miwok Indians

Thomas Starr King

Various State Offices

After a busy afternoon of walking about, I needed a cold drink…

Jungle Bird Tiki Bar

Saturday, April 27 – Today was my museum exploration day. I would visit the Old Governor’s Mansion, the California Museum and the Stanford House Museum. It was a lot of walking, but so worth it. Early in the day I discovered the Immortal Coffee House. I grabbed a coffee and would return around 2:30 for lunch. Alas, they were out of their biscuits and gravy – a dish I would not normally order, but their version looked delicious.

An American Breakfast Staple

Immortal Coffee / Savory Scone & Fresh-Squeezed OJ Lunch

Governor’s 1877 Mansion Museum – Closed Since COVID

The California Museum is aligned with the California Archives and California State Library. Lots of exhibits on History up to the present – including the Hall of Fame honor.

Grizzly Bear / Mickey Mouse / Goddess Minerva of ‘Eureka’ Fame

Indian Culture / Missions / Channel Islands Pygmy Mammoth

Unrooted is the Story of Incarceration of Japanese American Citizens During WWII

Chinese Immigration & Culture

Willie Brown Jr. – 2 Term Mayor of San Francisco and Legendary 15-Year Assembly House Speaker, Current Hall of Famer

Gift Shop Goodies

Museum stop #3 was the Stanford Mansion State Historic Park. This weekend was High School Prom Season and young couples were EVERYWHERE taking photos. It was difficult to take photos without people in them…but with patience I succeeded.

Stanford Mansion State Historic Park

No indoor photography was allowed. This museum also serves as the Governor’s official reception center for world leaders.

Wandering around downtown, especially in proximity to the K Street Pedestrian Mall were any number of attractive older buildings. As in other communities I’ve visited there were quite a few restaurant vacancies – a result of the COVID pandemic. There was a good mixture of apartments, government offices, limited retail and social organizations.

1912 Crest Theater

1940 Esquire Theater

1927 Municipal Auditorium

Fine American Cuisine

Old Spaghetti Factory, Former 1910 Western Pacific Railroad Depot

1926 Elk’s Lodge

These social clubs are all well and good, but when I need to get down to serious business I prefer…note the surfboard tables. I need one of these for my new place.

Dinner: Surfin’ Bird Turkey Sandwich / Chips / Pineapple Cider @ Beach Hut Deli

Crest After Dark

Sunday, April 28 – I saved my favorite museum for last, the California State Railroad Museum in Old Town. This is a must see attraction when visiting Sacramento. The majority of the building is an actual roundhouse, allowing for the entering and exiting of trains.

This is not a history of railroads per se, but a history of California railroads, starting with construction of the Transcontinental Continental Railroad in 1869. Completion of the railroad opened up the West and transformed California.

The Last Spike

‘The Governor’

Typical Southern Pacific Depot

Atchinson, Topeka and Santa Fe China Pattern

Toy Trains

Model Trains

Depot Artifacts

Gift Shop!

Before and after the railroad museum, I wandered around Old Town Sacramento, a tourist destination unto itself. Lots of old buildings, gifts shops, restaurants and bars, and tourist attractions including a passenger train ride and river boats.

Pony Express / Transcontinental Railroad Monuments

1935 Tower Bridge Over Sacramento River

1927 Delta King Hotel / Restaurant

Old Town Streetscape

“Famous” Fanny Ann’s Saloon – A Favorite Destination of Students

It has been decades since I had visited Sacramento in any detail. I enjoyed my three day visit and could easily have spent a few more days here. While Sacramento doesn’t have the glamour of San Francisco or Los Angeles, in other ways is just as significant. I had forgotten how much history is here, and how that history was the framework for modern day California; today the 10th largest economy in the world.

I enjoyed walking around Old Town, Downtown, and Midtown. To me it was interesting to see all the new apartment construction, transforming this area into a true 24-hour community. In a few years high-speed rail will connect Sacramento to San Francisco and Los Angeles. When that happens more visitors – and residents will come here.

NEXT TIME: Beaveropolis

Garlic Ice Cream is a Thing! Really?

Nob Hill Foods was a family run 1930’s high-end grocery store chain, owned by Gilroy nursery owner Michael Bonafonte. In 1998 Bonafonte sold his 27 supermarkets to develop a horticultural theme park on the site of his Tree Haven nursery. Gilroy Gardens would open to the public in 2001. It has been 20+ years since my last visit…

Sunday, April 20 – By 2024 Gilroy Gardens has developed into a beautiful theme park with a lush, mature landscape. Bonafonte knew what he was doing when he had his concept for the park. The Great America theme park is north in Santa Clara, and can be overrun with teenagers on the weekends. He did not want that for his park. Bonafonte wanted the park to cater to young families with rides oriented to 12 year olds and younger. My sister Cheryl and I went on a few rides; the carousel, miniature train around the park, the two small roller coasters, monorail and lazy river boats. Each ride was short and gentle, perfect for a 7 year old attention span, lol. It was a delight to see this park again after so many years – but don’t expect to be wowed for the rides. Unless you’re 7.

Welcome to the Gardens

$25 Parking! Yikes!

Spring Entry Boardwalk with Trees – Silk Flowers Are Replaced Seasonally

Carousel

Kiddie Rides: Artichokes / Garlic Cloves / Wormy Apple

Animated Critters on the Quicksilver Express Roller Coaster

Garlic Merchandise

Water Features / Rockwork

Topiary / White Wisteria

A large glasshouse has tropical economic plants, waterfalls and both the monorail and miniature train navigate through it. In the background the exotic sounds of Martin Denny’s tiki tunes can be heard. Brilliant!

The designers did a nice job on layout, theming, pacing and historical icons; referencing local history to the present day Gilroy area. It’s no Disneyland, but very well done and for the most part well maintained for a 23-year old park. The understated horticulture theme is everywhere. Cast members wear California Poppy Aloha shirts. The cafes feature spring-influenced cuisine such as lemon and lavender funnel cakes, and lemon and lavender vodka for the adults, lol. Larger-than-life silk flower displays are scattered around the park. And there is plenty of hands-on activities and exhibits for the kiddos.

Park Map

As charming as the park is, my primary interest was to see the unique “Circus Trees”. Trees that had been artistically bent and woven together by Axel Erlandson, the son of a Swedish immigrant. The first tree dates back to 1929. Species are primarily American Sycamores (Platanus occidentalis), but also European Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Cork Oak (Quercus suber) and Maples (Acer species.)

The trees had been an attraction to themselves at the long defunct and abandoned Tree Circus at Scott’s Valley in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The trees had a historical media pedigree, having been featured in a 1940’s Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, and 1957 Life magazine articles. In the late 1950’s the collection had grown to 70 trees. By the time Bonafonte rescued the remaining, ailing trees in 1985, only 25 trees survived. He moved them back to Tree Haven, nurtured them back to health, then incorporated them into the landscape. 19 are planted at Gilroy Gardens today; the remaining 6 are “backstage”.

“Arch” Tree

“Four Legged Giant”

“Double Hearts”

“Revolving Door”

“Basket Tree”

Ten of the trees are planted on opposite sides of the entry plaza, while the rest are incorporated into various landscapes throughout the park. Pick up the Tree Guide brochure to locate them as most blend into the now mature landscapes and can be easily overlooked.

FLIPSIDE: Back to Filoli

Friday, April 19 – On April 8 I reported on Filoli, my former Employer on the San Francisco Peninsula. (California # 20, “Friends in High Places / Pleasanton”, Episode # 278). The house and garden have been featured in TV and movies for nearly 50 years. Back in my day it was small, guided tours of the house and garden. Today the 16-acre gardens and 43-room house are open for roaming. In more recent years the back Woodland area has been opened for limited nature hikes. I returned today to revisit the Coastal Oak natural area I hadn’t seen in almost 46 years. My long-time friend Elish would again pick me up at a CalTrain station, then we would drive over to Woodside.

1894 Mission Revival Southern Pacific / CalTrain RR Depot – Burlingame Station

The local historical society has a museum in the former waiting room.

Skipper / Elish

One-Half Mile Nature Loop Trail

Grasslands / Redwood Grove / Coast Live Oaks

The Filoli Estate totals 654- acres, reaching uphill just below the summit of the Santa Cruz Mountains ridgeline and below Skyline Blvd (SR 35).

Former Housing for Bachelor Italian Gardeners

There are a number of old buildings in this area not opened to the public, nor on the designated Nature Loop Trail. I wanted to “Take a Nosy” and deliberately wandered out of the area to have a quick peak. In 1978 when I worked there, there was one remaining retired gardener from the Roth Era ( 1936 – 1975) still living in this building.

After our hike and “nosy” we ventured into Woodside for lunch, then returned back to Filoli for a tree lecture, wander around the gardens and relaxing, ‘talking story” on the Adirondack chairs in the meadow. We would finally leave close to 5 PM.

Meadow / House

“Make Haste Slowly”

Pansies Have Replaced Tulips

Wisterias!

Sunken Garden

Blue Coastal Redwood / Sequoia sempervirens ‘Filoli’

Filoli Gardens: “Fight Love Live”

Back to CalTrain, then “Home” south to Sunnyvale and my sister and bro-in-law.

1888 Richardsonian Romanesque Revival Southern Pacific / CalTrain RR Depot, San Carlos Station

Saturday, April 20 – Off to Concord, my teenage home to meet up with an old high school friend, Karl for lunch. Then in the afternoon west to Hercules on SR 4 and our childhood friend Barbara.

Downtown Concord Has Grown Up

Lunch Stop

Skipper / Sisters: Mary & Cheryl / Bro-in-Law Bill

Richard / Karl / Dennis

Cheryl / Barbara

Bill / Cheryl / Skipper / Barbara

Another Member of the Family – Tux, Cheryl & Bill’s Cat

Cheryl is three years younger than me and Mary is four years younger. When I was a senior in high school, Cheryl was a freshman. Karl was Cheryl’s friend but became all our friends. He and his partner live in Arizona. They’re in California to visit his dad Richard.

Before we lived in Concord, we grew up in Richmond, just north of Berkeley in the Eastbay, on the San Francisco Bay. Barbara was our friend and neighbor, is a retired nurse, and the same age as Cheryl. Barbara is like a third sister to me. Our parents were also friends with one another. We were the few Whites and Filipinos in a primarily black neighborhood. I am so glad I grew up here in such a multi-cultural environment. Our friendships have endeared since the early 1960’s.

I’m loving being back in California, having moved away 25 years ago. It’s wonderful spending time with my family and old friends, revisiting places dear to me, the widespread environmental awareness, the history, the climate and the food & drink!

‘Carntias’ (Roast Pork) Lunch Plate – Muy Bien!

Gift From Cheryl – My Favorite California Craft Beer: Humboldt County Lost Coast Tangerine Wheat Beer! – Note Tangerines Growing on Backyard Tree

NEXT TIME: The Big Tomato

There’s No Place Like Home!

I started this Blog in January 2020 to keep my friends in the States informed of my travels. Along the way I’ve made international friends who also wanted to keep up with my adventures. I now have many more international than domestic Readers. And the international fans seem to enjoy my domestic travels as much as my overseas travels. So this blog has (hopefully) the best of both kinds of travel. While I prefer to be abroad at this stage of my life, America has some outstanding places to visit. To date I’ve made three voyages to the South Pacific – and those travels aren’t done yet. I am happiest when I am a traveling Nomad. Until then I’ll be re-visiting some of my favorite destinations here in the States, and showing everyone my day to day life with friends and family. Enjoy!

I left the San Francisco Bay Area 35 years ago, and SoCal 25 years ago for better employment opportunities. All those years of work prevented me from making any long trips back “home”. It’s nice that I now have the time to relax and enjoy my ancestral homeland. I’m in no rush to move on and will be here into May.

Saturday, March 30 – After our Vacaville /Nut Tree Adventure, my sister Cheryl and Bro-in-law Bill met an old high school classmate and neighbor, Debbie and her husband John. Fairfield is the next town south of Vacaville. We had a lovely visit, then went out for an early dinner. Mooyah is a burger chain from Texas. Yummy! It was a great day.

Dinner: Green Chili Queso Burger / Homemade Chips

John / Debbie / Bro-in-Law “Mental Tiki Bill” / Cheryl dba “Toots LaBroad”

Tuesday, March 2 – Today was a Twofer; I met up with Elish, my UC Berkley Extension Landscape Architect classmate. We visited my former employer, Filoli in Woodside. If Filoli looks and sounds familiar it should, as it was the setting for 1980’s TV’s Dynasty, “Heaven Can Wait” with Warren Beatty and recently was the setting for President Biden and Chinese President Xi’s private meeting after the November 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic (Leaders) Conference (APEC) in San Francisco. I previously posted photos and this text on Filoli back in May 2022, Episode #182, “Days of Wine & Roses”:

Across San Francisco Bay on the west is the San Francisco Peninula. A quick visit to Filoli Center in Woodside where I worked as an Estate Gardener in 1978/1979. Filoli is owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The lavish 1915 – 1917 Georgian Revival home has 56 rooms. At 654-acres, the Filoli Estate has 16-acres of formal gardens laid out between 1917 and 1922, and extends westward through native Coastal Oak and Redwoods Woodlands to the ridge-line of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Filoli was home to two prominent California families; the Bornes and the Roths prior to being donated to the National Trust. Mr. Borne owned the Sierra Nevada Empire Gold Mine, and founded the mega utility, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) in San Francisco. The Roths owned Matson Shipping lines, were in state politics, developed San Francisco’s Ghirardalli Square in the mid 1960s and donated Filoli to the trust circa 1976.

Elish

Elish is a recently retired park planner, having worked for Santa Clara County Parks and the Mid-Peninsula Open Space District. We both loved our respective careers, serving the public, and making our communities better socially, aethethicaly and environmentally sustainable.

43- Room Georgian Country Manor House

It’s Tulip Season!

Sunken Garden

Walled Garden

The High Place

The Pool / Camperdown Elm / Woodland Garden

Beautiful Native Oak Woodlands

Ballroom

Kitchen / Dumbwaiter

The stove was from an old Matson cruise ship….The locked dumbwaiter has a special humorous memory for me. Back in 1979, after I had left employment, the Filoli gardeners held a Halloween party in the attic – and I was invited. The dumbwaiter runs all the way from the basement, up both floors of the house and into the attic. I’m not sure why I did it, but decided to get inside and go for a ride. Luckily nothing happened. The rope didn’t break. I didn’t get stuck, etc. But I was never invited back for anymore gardener functions, lol. It is now locked.

1934 Pulgas Water Temple

A half-mile immediately north of Filoli is the Pulgas Water Temple and the end of the 160-mile Hetch Hetchy Pipeline; San Francisco’s water supply from the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The waters flow from Hetch Hetch Reservoir in Yosemite National Park into Crystal Springs Reservoir. The Upper and Lower Crystal Springs Lakes are in a rift valley caused by the San Andreas earthquake fault. Before the Woodland grew out over the past 90 years, the reservoir could be seen from the upper floor master bedroom of Filoli.

Filoli’s William Bowers Bourne coincidently was also President of the Spring Valley Water Company. The 22,000-acre Crystal Springs watershed, plus 39,000 – acre Alameda Creek Watershed eastbay acreage was purchased by the City of San Francisco in 1930 for $40,000,000. Wowsers! The area reminded him very much of the Killarney Lakes region of western Ireland. I visited this area in 1987 and can concur that the two areas are very visually similar.

Wednesday, March 3 – Today was a mild day compared to yesterday. It would take three hours of travel to get from Sunnyvale to Larkspur – then another three hours in late afternoon in reverse to return to Silicon Valley. By train, light-rail, and ferry I’m off to Marin County to visit an old SoCal neighbor; retired Geologist Peter and his lovely wife Monica. Peter picked me up @ the ferry terminal and we drove to his home in San Rafael. There we had coffee, went out to lunch, then I made some recommendations for the backyard. Peter & Monica have a beautiful 1950’s Eichler home, and have restored it inside and out, preserving the classic mid-century design elements and colors.

Go By Caltrain / SF Muni Metro Streetcar / Golden Gate Ferry

Skipper / Peter / Monica

Living Room

Courtyard Landscape / Front Yard

Thursday, March 4 – Off to Santa Cruz today to have lunch with John @ the Makai on the Santa Cruz Wharf. It was pouring rain when we left Sunnyvale @ 10:20. By the time we reached the Santa Cruz Mountains Summit, the clouds were thinning, then by lunch time it was bright blue skies.

da kine

John / Naked Ape

Skipper / Puka Punch

da Boys and Their Swizzles

Friday, April 5 – This afternoon I called in to D.J.s Tiki Brian and Tikimon for my second radio interview on Exotic Tiki Island Radio during the Live Happy Hour segment (5-6 PM Eastern Time). This national podcast broadcasts 24 hours on the first full weekend of each month out of the Washington D.C. area, Friday afternoon through overnight Sunday. I discussed my most recent travel adventures in Fiji, New Zealand and Australia. Got some nice comments on the chat screen, inviting me for a meetup and drinks in Tucson and Seattle. (Shout outs to ETI listeners TikiCat, Captain Cook and others!)

Kongaloosh!

Saturday, April 6 – Skipper needs new glasses. Off to LensCrafters. I’ll be getting a new prescription and lenses, but will be able to keep the same stylish gray metal frames I bought in New Zealand a couple years ago. They match my hair, lol. Good news – no cataracts!

Eye Site

Afterwards Cheryl and I went out for pizza in San Jose. Garlic, jalapeño and pepperoni. Yum!

Smile! You’re on Candid Camera!

Sunday, April 7 – Back in the 1980’s, Oakland’s Merritt College Landscape Horticulture Department ( My employer post Filoli.) participated in the San Francisco Garden & Landscape Show @ Fort Mason. Venues and ownership of the show have changed over the decades. This year the San Francisco Bay Garden & Flower Show was held in the Eastbay on the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. The show was much smaller than previous editions. Previously there would have been 20-30 gardens designed by landscape architects, contractors and nurserymen. In 2024 there were only 5 gardens. In addition to the landscapes were art pieces and plants for sale, floral arrangements, garden demonstrations and lectures, and products more typical of a Home Show; window replacements, cookware, food and beauty products, …and “healthcare” products.

NOT the Kitsap County Fairgrounds

Favorite Landscape: Magnifica Designs – Sarah Lee / Pleasanton

Aquatic Landscapes Are Always Fun

The Other Gardens

Beautimous Garden Art

Acacia ‘Cousin Itt’

Orange and Yellow Clivias

Leucospermum ‘ High Gold’ / Yellow Pincushion Plant

We saved the “Hall of Appliances” Building for last. So many valuable contraptions for sale, including “healthcare”. We took a test drive on several of them…

“Cycloneseat” Collapsable Seat

Foot and Back Massagers

All-Purpose “Vibra Plate”… Really?

Afterwards we headed into downtown Pleasanton. What a cute town! Population 80,000. Lots of independent businesses. We would end up having lunch at a brewpub, then a coffee and cookie from two different places. Another former agricultural community, this Eastbay suburb is one of the most expensive cities to live in the United States. The average home is valued at $1.9 million. Overall, another pleasant outing.

Welcome to Pleasanton

Lotsa Vintage Buildings

California = Mexican Cruisine

Veteran’s Memorial

East Bay Hillside Off I-680 / Native Coast Live Oak Woodland

California hillsides remain lush and green due to the heavy winter rains the State received over the 2024 winter. 2023 was also an above average year of rainfall. Normally the hills would start to “brown out” as soon as March. By May they are normally a golden brown. California has been under drought conditions for most of the 21st century.

NEXT TIME – San Francisco Reunions

California Here I Come, Right Back Where I Started From

“You live an amazing life. I wish more of my clients would be more adventurous and go out and see the world!” – Terry Uemara, Hawaii General Store travel agent, Seattle, WA.

I made a decision over five years ago. Upon retirement (In September2019) I could either settle down with a cosy, small little home and garden in Oregon, or I could travel. But I could not afford to do both. So I compromised and would take off for one year, a “Gap Year”, to travel the South Pacific. Then I would settle down and become (somewhat) domesticated…But that hasn’t happened…Yet…

I’m back from my third voyage – much like Captain Cook – but with a big difference. I came back alive. I know I want to keep traveling. I like the rhythm of island hopping, or taking the bus or train to a new destination for a couple weeks, then doing it again, and again, and again venturing into the Unknown. My buddy Louis told me that I will never settle down. He may be right. I’m already looking at future trips to Cambodia, the Azores and Easter Island. I enjoy being spontaneous, meeting new people, and discovering new places I’ve never heard off (That’s you Bay of Islands, New Zealand), “ To Boldly Go Where No Man Has Gone Before”, etc. etc.

The Trouble With Travels – Unexpected Trib-ulations

Monday, March 25 – I’ve managed to get everything into my one checked bag (16kg) and my Rick Steve’s carry-on. My plaid jacket takes up valuable room, so I’ll wear it around my waist until we get onboard the plane, then up in the overhead bin it goes.

Another City, Another Departure. Good-by Canberra!

Modern, Canberra International Airport

From Canberra to Brisbane

Dinner: 4 Hot Cauliflower & Mozzarella Balls / Chardonnay

From Brisbane to LAX then San Jose, Goodby Australia

“Wings”

I asked one of the flight attendants if they had any flight wings pins. Alas no, but instead brought me back a plethora of goodies: Quantas playing cards, key chain, overnight kit, cap, pajamas and a thank you card. Wow!

Hello LAX / USA!

Tuesday, March 26 – I had a productive, although “Jet-Lagged” first day back. I had an 8:15 AM flight to San Jose, meaning I had a 6 AM hotel wake-up call, and early taxi back to LAX. Two years ago light rail construction was happening at LAX. Two years later it is still ongoing. It will be a real asset once it is up and running.

Aloha Trader Vic’s Airport San Jose, California

Trader Vic’s has expanded their seating area, almost doubling seating capacity. Bro-in-law Bill picked me up @ 10 AM and we headed off to my favorite Sunnyvale, South Bay breakfast place, Hobee’s for breakfast.

Hobee’s ‘Merican Breakfast: Hash Browns – Bacon – Cheese Bowl / Bacon / Iced-Tea

I got my American chip back in my phone and started making phone calls to my credit union, medical billing, renter’s insurance etc. I literally had 7 months and over a foot of mail to sort and wade through. Annual federal income taxes are due April 15. Most of my W-2’s were there for preparation of my 2023 income taxes. I went online to Social Security for theirs, then made an appointment with H& R Block for next week. Tomorrow I will schedule my doctor and dentist appointments for Oregon and Washington.

I’ll be staying with Bill and my sister Cheryl for a few weeks until I can decide my next steps. Hosteling International USA is hosting an alumni meeting for former board members (That would include me.) in San Francisco on Friday, April 14. So I will be staying here at least that long. I need to follow through on a river boat tour guide position in Portland. Depending if I get the position or not will determine which state I’ll reside in, either Oregon or Washington. I do not and will not commute.

Saturday, March 30 – Today my family and I took a roadtrip down Memory Lane to a favorite place of our youth. Vacaville, population 103,000, is an agricultural-based town on the I-80 freeway between San Francisco and Sacramento; California’s capitol. Back in the day, it was literally a rural Cow Town ( “Vaca” means “Cow” in Spanish.) In the 1960’s / 1970’s the region had English Walnut trees on both sides of the freeway as far as the eye could see. Rest stops and gasoline stations along I-80, and the entire Central Valley at that time were extremely limited. Vacaville is also home to the Nut Tree.

Do You Know the Way to Vacaville?

History: In 1921 the Helen & Ed “Bunny” Power family highway fruit stand / rest stop was established that over time evolved into a major tourist attraction including the predecessor to California cuisine (Farm to plate fresh food) restaurants, colorful tropical bird aviaries, aviation-themed gift shop, dried fruit and nut packs, bakery, candy factory, fantasy toy shop with giant, over-sized German ‘Steiff’ stuffed animals, miniature railroad, private airport and air shows. This is the Nut Tree.

In the 1970’s the Nut tree was the third largest employer in Solano County. They were also famous for their pineapple appetizers and garnishes, and were the third largest importer of Dole pineapples to the Mainland.

As a family in the 1960’s/1970’s we would always stop on our way to or from Sacramento to ride the miniature train to the airport, visit the toy shop and have a giant honey cookie from the bakery. The Pied Piper would be playing his flute in front of the toy store, and we would ride the rocking horses.

After the death of patriarch Bunny Power, a family dispute and lawsuit resulted in the closure and sale of the Nut Tree in 1996. Buildings were demolished, walnut trees uprooted and the Nut Tree Outlet Shops opened in 2006 on the former 570-acre ranch. A couple of the smaller structures were either saved or recreated for the new Nut Tree Plaza at the front of the outlet shops. A small amusement park was also designed into the Outlet Shops. But it was not financially successful and was removed a number of years ago. In the future apartments, a park/ golf course, hotel and offices will be added. Ouch! This is not what I want for the beloved Nut tree.

Nut Tree Plaza Today

100+ Years

Carousel / Giraffe

Nut Tree Hobby Horses

Airport Train Station

Old Ice Cream Pavilion

Train History

All of the features above, except the carousel and giraffe were part of the original Nut Tree. When the Outlet Shops opened, 70 businesses signed leases, including Fenton’s Ice Creamery from Oakland. Today’s itinerary included the Nut Tree Plaza and lunch at Fenton’s. After lunch we headed to downtown Vacaville.

Black & Tan Sundaes (Almond Ice Cream with Chocolate and Carmel Sauce)

Downtown Welcome / 1907 Town Hall / 1915 Carnage Library

“Valley Harvest” (1995), Artist Lisa Reinertson

Ulatis Creek Bikeway

Redbuds in Bloom

1891 Buck Mansion

1922 Hartley House

In 2021 the Vacaville Museum had curated a Nut Tree Centennial Exhibit. I had hoped to visit last year but logistics did not work out and I never made it to Vacaville. Today’s visit would be a mixed surprise. The exhibit from the one-room museum had been replaced some time ago with the current wine exhibit. However the museum director, Sarah, appreciated my interest in the Nut Tree, and took us upstairs for a personal tour of some of the archival items from the Nut Tree exhibit they had left in storage.

Nut Tree Memorabilia Collage

Nut Tree Post Office Sign

Walnuts & Wine

Restaurant Pillows

Pied Piper Capes

Steiff Animals

The Definitive History, 2021

Nut Tree Restaurant, circa 1965

I liked things just as they were before the sale of the Nut Tree property. At that time it had a cool, retro-1960’s design vibe to it with bright contemporary colors, modern mid-century furnishings of that era and indoor-outdoor living. The Nut tree was so successful, they opened the Coffee Tree across the freeway with the same menu and design aesthetics, and the Nut Tree Shop near Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.

Sunset Magazine Demonstration Gardens

All these properties had the same outdoor ambience as Sunset Magazine’s HQ/ Demonstration Gardens in Meno Park, California. And Sunset Magazine – “The Magazine of Western Living” – often published articles on the Nut Tree.

The Nut Tree was a wonderful destination in its day. But times have changed. The entire I-80 corridor from San Francisco to Sacramento is now fully developed with numerous fast food outlets, gas stations, shopping centers and more. In American society today we rush, we don’t slow down to enjoy the little things in life; like a honey-baked cookie, or listen to a happy tune played on a flute by a wandering minstrel.

Had the Nut Tree survived, in my oponion, it would be even more popular today. It seems we never fully appreciate places until they are gone. I look at Harris Ranch in central California, along the I-5 corridor (In the middle of nowhere.) and how successful a roadside stop it is with its fine dining, gift shop and hotel. Long live the Nut Tree’s legacy. If you are traveling between San Francisco and Sacramento, the Nut Tree Plaza is worth a stop. And as long as you’ve stopped, stop into Fenton’s for a scoop of Toasted Almond Ice Cream. You won’t be disappointed.

NEXT TIME: Friends & More Favorite Places

American Volkswalkers

Friday, March 22 – This is what I’ve been waiting for, the Aussie Peace Walk! Formerly known as the Canberra Walking Festival, also known as the Australian IVV / IML volkswalks.

IVV is the International Federation of Popular Sports, a non-competitive, non-profit walking organization that was established in 1968 between walking clubs in Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. This is my “Volkswalking” group that I’ve been walking with for 15 years; the East County Windwalkers in Gresham Oregon and the Kitsap Volkssporters in Kitsap County Washington. To date I’ve done over 920 walks and have tracked over 8,000 k. Before my retirement travels, I walked every week. It was rare for me to miss a week to take a Saturday 10k walk. The past 5 years I’ve slowed down – quite a bit and now do more 5k walks than any other.

This will be my 4th set of IML (International Marching League) walks; 2-day walks that include a Saturday, 42k full marathon walk and a Sunday, 21k half marathon walk, plus the short 7k Friday afternoon Presidential Walk. My previous IML walks were in Vancouver Washington (2008), Arlington Virginia (2009), and Rotorua New Zealand (2020). I was supposed to do the Canberra walks in 2020, but COVID changed that.

If so interested, check out my previous international volkswalking efforts, “Volkssporting Across the South Pacific”, (NZ) Episode # 17, March 15, 2020 and “Picticton, British, Columbia Canada”, Episode # 187, June 2022.

The afternoon started with the 1:30 PM Presidential Walk, followed by a Flag Parade of Nations, the opening ceremonies, and the ringing of the Peace Bell.

Welcome to Albert Hall

All Set Up & Awaiting Walkers

All Set To Walk

250 walkers from around Australia plus 120 international walkers have shown up from 11 countries; Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Canada, USA, New Zealand and Europe – which is always well represented. The Canberra Walking Festival was started by the Aussie Walks organization and ran from 1992 – 2020, which was to be its final year. It was resurrected in 2022 under Rotary and renamed the Aussie Peace Walk. It takes a tremendous amount of energy to organize these two day walks, and to follow the many rules of the IVV and IML organizations. Unfortunately some walks go away over time.

Parade Formation

Path to Peace Bell

Arrival @ the Peace Bell

Marie- Cecile Choir

Speakers: Rotary / Aboriginal/ Aussie Walks

Volkswalkers / Flag Bearers

Didgeridoo

On the way back to Albert Hall we passed the Beijing Chinese Garden. Beautiful.

Limestone Scholar Stone From Tai Lake

Cranes

“Bronze Galloping Horse threading on a Flying Sparrow”

Crane Observation Pavilion

Saturday, March 23- I boarded a bus at 6:45 AM under darkness to arrive at Albert Hall in time for the 7:30 start time. In order to complete the entire 42k marathon I’d need to complete the first 21k by 11:45 AM.

Marathon, Part I

Good Morning Canberra!

Aussie Diana Marshall Welcomes Marathoners

Australian Museum From Across Lake

Today’s walk would take us around Lake Burley Griffin and behind the Australian War Memorial. Most impressive was the walk up and back along the ANZAC Parade, showcasing different wars that Aussie troops fought in, along with the different branches of the Oz military. ANZAC stands for Australia New Zealand Army Corp that fought together in WWI. The Red Poppy has become a symbol for Remembrance Day in Australia and New Zealand. It was the first wildflower to bloom on the war-ravaged battlefields of Europe.

ANZAC Parade Leading Up To Australian War Memorial

New Zealand

South Africa Boer War

Viet Nam

Korean War

Australian Army National Memorial

9 / 11

For much of today’s walk we would circumnavigate Lake Burley Griffin.

National Carillon / Waterways

Wetlands

I Re-Populated the Duck I Had Found On The Manly Beach Trail

Back Into “Civilization”: 1858 Blundell’s Cottage / Apartments / Restaurant

Back at Albert Hall

Time for A Bubble Tea

I returned to Albert Hall at 12:30, 45 minutes past my 11:45 check-in time. Since I was “late” I didn’t qualify to complete for the second 21k half of the marathon. Had I not stopped to take photos I still don’t know if I could have made the time or not. And if I did make it back in time I don’t think I could have finished another 21k. Even though I had new shoes and padded socks, my feet were killing me. Tomorrow’s walks are a 24k and 12k. I’ve been told it’s more strenuous than today’s walks. I plan to do the 12k and call it good. Since I am 70 I don’t have to do the entire courses to qualify for the IML Award. 21k and 12k over two days is just fine thank you. But I would have loved to receive the Marathon medal. It’s pretty cool.

Marathon, Part II

Dinner: Spicy Beef with Noodles / Ginger Beer

Sunday, March 24 – Today was much easier, a 12k. I somehow got off track at the checkpoint missing the peninsula below and came back 90 minutes and 5k early. So I went out and walked for another 90 minutes along the lakeshore to the National Art Gallery and back to make up the difference, lol.

Sunday’s 12k Route

Trail Markers

Singapore / Finland – Estonia / Mtaylasia Embassies

Bush Walking

Another Sulfur-Crested Cockatoo

Bush / Grasslands / Lake Views

I’m Done – Or So I Thought…

So back along the lake to gather up an additional 5k…Pro-Palestine Demonstrators had graffiti tagged the Peace Bell and surrounding area Thursday night prior to the Opening Ceremony. City staff had since cleaned it up.

Peace Bell Cleanup

Beautiful Stone Work Along Lake Edge

Back at Albert Hall we had musical entertainment until the 3 PM Closing Ceremonies.

Marie- Cecile Choir

Australia Sings

Penny Roo – Our Mascot

Our Logo

There’s That Oceanic Airlines Logo From TV’s ‘Lost’ Again, lol!

This German Volkswalker Brought ‘Rudolph’ His 12-Year Old Son’s Toy Reindeer, Marched & Registered Him As A Substitute For His Son’s Absense. (Note the Metal)

Taiwan Gave Away Their Hats At End

Aussie Walks Dream Team: Jamie / Yvoyyne / Diana

Chris – Trail Master

Taiwanese Volkswalker Has Done 30 IML Walks!

Walkers Who’ve Walked All 8 Pan Pacific IML Countries

The “Grandmother” of the Original Canberra Walking Festival

Diana, Former Canberra Walking Festival Organizer for Many Years

Random “Winners” From Today’s Walks

Aussie Walks President – Wife / Secretary – Husband & Pan Pacific Region President

Skipper’s Walking Achievement

Volkssporting Bling

As of Sunday 490 walkers were represented from 17 countries. Taiwan had the largest international numbers, but Germany was by far the loudest, lol.

Overall I enjoyed the Festival. Australia did a great job! Trail Master Chris said a few words at the end. They had more last-minute problems the past few weeks, than all previous festivals put together. The caterer pulled out at the last minute – and the Boy Scouts stepped in. Volunteers were committed to other events. Then Chris injured his foot Thursday night. The college interns he had been using to teach Event Management jumped in at the 11.5-th hour to do many of the tasks Chris would normally do. Great job everyone! From my perspective I had not been aware of any problems. Hope to be back in 2026 when a third IML event will be added to New Zealand and Australia.

Final Aussie Dinner: Teriyaki Chicken / Miso Soup / Salad

One big difference I’ve noticed since 2000 and 2024 is an ongoing acknowledgement of the native Aboriginal and Torres Strait custodians of the land prior to European Colonization. The Aboriginal people have lived in Australia a minimum of 60,000 years. They are the oldest continuous civilization on the planet.

Signs / Airline Announcements Similar to This Are Common

That’s a wrap for the Land Down Under. I had an amazing time here in Australia and hope to return in the future. I don’t want to have to wait another 24 years, lol. This is a BIG country and you can’t see everything, so I recommend limiting yourself to one geographic corner. Happy travels!

NEXT TIME: Back in the U.S.A.

National Parliament House – In Legos!

The Real Parliament House

Monday, March 18 – Today was a travel day. I left Katoomba on an 11:15 AM train for Sydney, arriving shortly after 1:15 PM. This gave me plenty of time to book a 2 PM bus for Canberra. It would be a long day, arriving in town to drizzle around 6:30 PM. Luckily my hostel was only a 10-minute walk away, in the CBD. This property is a former YHA, one they had to let go during the pandemic. It re-opened last year under the Village Hostels brand. The hostel is ok, but lacks the staff, maintenance and programming that YHA is famous for. Hopefully in the future they’ll acquire another facility, in this the nation’s capitol.

Tuesday, March 19 – I always like to start at the Visitor’s Center when I arrive in a new city. But I had to find it first. My map indicated it was at the bus station where I arrived last night. A walk back to discover it was only a kiosk, with an information phone pulled out of the wall. Sigh. The bus office directed me to the real Visitor’s Center – so off I headed.

From Here To There

Canberra is a modern city with buses and limited light rail. But it’s very spread out and very much an auto-oriented Community.

Bus Platforms

Not Soon Enough

City Walk Pedestrian Mall

Downtown is really nice. Everything resolves around a concentric road system with local buses, light rail and long distance buses all convening a block away from the Pedestrian Mall and a several block long enclosed mall – which includes two grocery stores. There are fountains, artwork, trees and landscaping, a merry-go-round, and plenty of places to sit in the shade with attractive street furniture. A block away from the hostel is the Canberra Museum, live theatre complex and legislature.

Queenie the Elephant

The Visitor’s Centre also had a permanent exhibit on the establishment of Canberra.

Australia as a country was established in 1901. A global competition was held to design the new City. A husband and wife team from Chicago won the competition. A series of axis views was established. All of the important federal buildings are located within the Parliament Zone, otherwise known as the Parliament Triangle. The Parliament has the most important position, on the hill overlooking the entire city.

Parliament Triangle

History of the Architects / Landscape

After visiting the Visitor’s Centre, I walked around Lake Burley Griffin to the Australian Museum.

Captain Cook Memorial

Commonwealth Park

National Museum of Australia

Information Panel

Another Egyptian Exhibit – This One Curated from the Netherlands

Gift Shop Treasures

1956 Aussie Culture

Native Queensland Bunya Bunya Trees / Auracaria bidwillii

Bunya Ethnobotany

Opalized Araucaria Pollen in Coal

Another Crocodile Exhibit

Hmmmm – Sydney Museum Had A Slavery Exhibit

Torres Strait Islands Between Australia and Papau New Guninea

Torres Strait Canoe

Torres Strait Display

Garden of Australian Dreams

Native Landscapes

Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies

Tuesday night was cheap tickets night at the local cinema. I would see Dune 2 (Enjoyed it very much as I’m a fan of the original trilogy of books.) Before hand I had dinner. The food court was reminiscent of a Tokyo streetscape with the neon signage.

Canberra Lego Store

Mall Food Court Played Homage to Tokyo Neon Streetcapes

Dinner: Iced Tea / Rice Noodles with Beef and Gravy – Next Time: No Gravy!

Wednesday, March 20 – Autumn is definitely in the air here. It rained heavily overnight, so heavy it woke me. Throughout the day it remained cool and overcast. I was layered first thing, but removed the long-sleeved shirt by mid morning. Off to The National Parliament House today.

Breakie: Avocado Smash on Sourdough Toast w/ Feta and Tomato

Parliament House Stats

Parliament House was open for visitors. I was able to take a free 25-minute tour which took us into the interior central courtyard overlook. Anyone can be on this the Ground Floor, but only the Prime Minister, legislators and their guests are allowed on the basement floor level and first floor (2nd floor) levels. We were also allowed on the roof.

There were any number of meetings, school groups, senior groups, and honorees being recognized. Throughout the building was artwork, portraits and a rooftop cafe with outdoor seating. Parliament was in session and we were allowed to go into the Visitor Galleries of both the House (Green) and the Senate (Red). Colors were once again based on the UK color system, however one lighter shade of green in the House was selected since it was the same green as Eucalyptus leaves. Photography was not permitted.

Axis View Towards War Memorial

Interior Views of Foyer

Central Courtyard w/ Pyramid

On the Roof

View Towards War Memorial

Aboriginal Rights

Queen Victoria’s Writing Desk Authorizing for the Australia Federation, 1901

1941 London War Blitz

Gift Shop Memorabilia – Collect ‘Em All!

Australian Post – Disney Stamps

Parliament House has an Australian Post Office in one wing. They were selling Disney stamps as part of the celebration of its 100th Anniversary of the Walt Disney Company. (I had earlier seen Disney plushies in other post offices, but didn’t make the connection.) I bought several sets of stamps which I’ll be donating to my non- profit Disney clubs in Portland and Seattle. In turn they will put the items up for Bid as part of their silent auctions to raise funds for local children’s charities.

Afterwards I walked a short distance downhill from Capitol Hill to the National Library. I’ve enjoyed the State Libraries in Adelaide and Melbourne so wanted to check out this one. Sadly, the 50-year building was being upgraded and remodeled. The galleries and restaurant were closed for remodeling and will reopen later this year. But I did find the globes in the Reading Room to be of interest.

Coronelli Globes

Afterwards I wandered downtown for a coffee and came across Guzman y Gomez, a Mexican food chain I’ve enjoyed in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. They do a good job on tacos and burritos and are a good value for a quick meal.

Muy Bueno!

After Dinner Flat White Coffee + Chocolate-Hazelnut Goodie

Thursday, March 21 – It’s Autumn weather! It was cool and brisk this morning, warm during the day, then cooled down again in the late afternoon. I had just one goal today: Visit the Australian War Memorial. I would be there for four hours, of which 90 minutes was devoted to a guided tour of the WWI and WWII galleries.

The Memorial is undergoing an extensive expansion, with sections closed off, and temporary entrances and exits created. The ceremonial entrance was completely blocked off. Construction will be completed in 2026. Admission is free, but due to limited capacity, admission tickets are required which can be ordered online. Visitors are assigned a two hour window, but take as much time as needed.

By far the most extensive galleries were centered on the two world wars. The Korean and Vietnam galleries, 19th century conflicts and other histories had either limited access or were not available.

Construction Is Extensive!

I arrived by bus, but due to construction it was impossible to circumnavigate around the building to see the secondary landscape features on the left side of the building.

Axis View Looking Towards Parliament House

WWI

Laying Communications Cable in the Singapore Jungle

Japanese Prisoner of War Camp

WWII

Korean War

Vietnam War

Afghanistan – Temporary Exhibit

Remembrance Day Poppies

Poppy’s Cafe’

Back into town and late afternoon exotic refreshments.

Indian Roti Canali Bread & Sauces / Malaysian Blended Lime – Lychee – Mint Drink

Afterwards I visited the Canberra Museum and Art Gallery. This is literally across the street from the hostel. This museum, like as the rest was free admission.

CMAG

Historical Displays

The Treasury Department had a mini-exhibit on money which I found very interesting.

Kool Koins!

Change Day

Monday, March 25 – Today is my last day in Australia. I’ve had enough of marathons, museums and window shopping. So off to the movies to kill a few hours. The cinema was a short 15- minute stroll. What a delightful, quirky movie. Warning: Lots of profanity! After the movie I’d have lunch, then catch a bus to the airport.

Promenade / Views of (Overgrown) City Hill Park

Too Many Trees Are Blocking Views

Hotel / Apartments / Cinema Building

Skipper’s Movie Recommendation of a Film He Knew Nothing About – Go See It!

Last Lunch: Grilled Chicken / Mushroom Sauce / Ginger Beer

NEXT TIME: A walk in the brush

“It’s Like the Grand Canyon Covered in Rainforest” – Ric Catron, March 2000

Friday, March 15 – Sydney was lovely and I had a great two weeks there. I’m now headed to the Blue Mountains for the weekend to decompress and to get in a few more hikes before I wrap up my Australia trip next week in Canberra, the national Capitol.

My March 1 arrival into Sydney was by train. The Central Train Station is everything one hopes for in a downtown train station. It’s historic, it’s grand, it’s massive. It’s also my gateway for the 2-hour trip to the town of Katoomba and the Blue Mountains National Park.

Central Railroad Station

Intercity Electric Train

Katoomba is a retirement community of 8,000 – and a significant tourist town on the doorstep of the Blue Mountains National Park. The train line, highway and all the little towns leading up to Katoomba and beyond to Mount Victoria are built on mountain ridges. Dense Eucalyptus forest stretches out in all directions away from the developed ridge lines.

Katoomba had its heyday back in the 1930’s as there are any number of under-maintained art deco buildings in a slow spiral of decay. It’s not a very attractive town. Another detriment, Katoomba Road, the main road; is on a fairly steep downhill slope. I was here 24 years ago, and there is nothing of Katoomba that I remember from my previous visit – except the name, lol.

Welcome to Katoomba

Sulfur-Crested Cockatoos Are Plentiful & Everywhere

Its proximity to Sydney makes Katoomba a popular destination. As a tourist town it has numerous hotels and cafe’s – with unfortunately quite a few vacant restaurant spaces; another victim of COVID. There are also a number of ethnic Nepalese “hippy” stores and a handful of mountaineering stores. Quite a few visitors arrive by train, with trains coming and going almost hourly. Remaining visitors drive. The town has plenty of tour buses – all day trippers from Sydney. Visitors can utilize the local bus service to reach the major destinations, utilizing the same Opal card used on Sydney trams, trains, busses and ferries. Or use the alternative Hop-On / Hop-Off bus.

The Grand Dame – 1883 Carrington Hotel

On-Site Bank Established By Original Hotel Owner – Now A Brew Pub

YHA Australia continues to have the best hostels! Blue Mountains YHA (Katoomba) is an old 1918 resort located downtown and literally within walking distance to the Blue Mountains National Park.

YHA all the Way!

Dining Room – Not Crazy About the Paint Scheme, lol!

Common Room with Former Ballroom / Wentworth Stage / Lighting

Back Lounge with TV / Piano

Stairway Art

4-Bed Dorm Room # 318 (Next Time Get Rooms 319 or 323 w/ Extra Side Windows)

History

Directly across the street is another old guest resort, this one more upscale.

Palais Royall

Saturday, March 16 – I awoke to heavy overcast (The Mist) and drizzle. For the first time since Tasmania I’m wearing long pants and I’ve brought out my red/black plaid shirt to stay warm and dry. We are easing into Australian autumn and the first sign of fall color is exhibited in the non-native Maple trees turning red.

Prior to COVID there was a tourist information station downtown, across the road from the train station. No more. There is a visitor center, but it’s a 30-40 minute walk away at the national park. So I’m off downhill to get basic information. I would end up taking the Hop-On / Hop-Off service which goes through the area on an hourly circuit. My bus pass is good for three days.

I ended up taking the circuit 2.5 times, waiting for The Mist to clear. I ended up getting off in the adjacent town of Leura to give me an extra hour and to have a light lunch. The bus would eventually drop me back in Katoomba at Honeymoon Lookout in the national park. I would hike to the Three Sisters Overlook and the Visitor Center @ Echo Point.

Trail Signage

Tallawalla Lookout

Lady Carrington Lookout

Native Lambertia formosa / Mountain Devil

Three Sisters Giant Stairway / Chinese Tourists – They’re Everywhere Too!

Unknown Rock Formation

The Three Sisters – #2 Visited Site in Australia, Only After the Opera House

Jamison Valley

Trail From Visitor’s Center

Lyre Bird

Cliff Walk Signage

Katoomba Cascades / Katoomba Creek

Katoomba Falls

Scenic World Cable Car

1958 – 2004 Cable Car

Why the Blue Mountains Are Called The Blue Mountains

Sunday, March 17 – I’m back on the Hop-On / Hop-Off bus to Scenic World, an attraction located adjacent to the Blue Mountains National Park. My first stop is for the cable car into the heart or HQ of Scenic World.

Inside the Beast

The Mist is back, but provides me with dramatic views nonetheless.

Katoomba Falls / Orphan Rock

Starting in 1878, this area was previously devoted to coal mining. There were about 40 mines at various times. To get the coal up from the valley floor, a railroad would eventually go into service. A railroad with a 52 degree assent. The last mine closed in the 1930’s.

Miner’s Cabin

52 Degree Incline!

Railway Facts

When mining faded out, the land owner decided to haul tourists instead – and the Scenic Railway was born in 1945. Back in March 2000, I rode one of these old cars. It was an exciting adventure then. To make it even more of an adventure, the Indiana Jones musical fanfare played overhead. Loudly!

Vintage Passenger Railroad Car

Today there is a whole new design with pneumatic doors, lap bars and adjustable seats.

Going Up!

Here We Go Again, March 2024

Since I arrived at the Park shortly after its 10 AM opening, I was able to ride the Scenic Railway down and up several times. The Indiana Jones fanfare is still played seasonally, although not as loud as I remembered it from 24 years ago. In the alternate season of Australian summer it is replaced with the Jurassic Park theme as migrating dinosaurs are known to visit then. But we had a special Visitor here today…

I enjoyed the pedestrian boardwalk loop that snaked along the valley sides and floor. The boardwalk had railings and carpeting in parts for traction in wet weather.

I Didn’t Recognize the Last Two Species, lol

Exit the Valley Floor Via Cableway Back to HQ

Views Through the Glass and Mist

…and the Gruffalo Was Waiting For Me!

From there I caught another cable car back to the Starting Point, then caught the Hop-On / Hop-Off bus back into town.

Last Look @ Katoomba Falls

A Lovely Day in Spite of The Mist

NEXT TIME: Hey buds below, up is where to grow

Sydney Residents are Referred to as Sidneysiders

Often when I travel I stumble across places, events and people I was not aware of that become a highlight of the trip. A recent excellent example were the 600+ Marilyn Monroe swimmers raising funds for cancer research in Brighton, South Australia. At the Visitor’s Information Center I inquired on historical theaters, and was rewarded twofold.

Wednesday, March 6 – The downtown State Theatre graciously allowed me into the 1929 Inner Lobby. Breathtaking. The theater does offer tours, but the next one isn’t for several weeks, working around the closing of a current live show.

Public Outer Lobby

Inner Lobby

Here in Sydney I’ve stumbled across a couple of unexpected Open Houses; New South Wales 1845 Government House and Sydney’s Town Hall. THIS Government House is open Fridays – Sundays. This is where the Governor lives and works. Great tour, but no inside photos were allowed. Spectacular rooms full of history, portraits and furnishings.

Friday, March 8 – I had been at the Opera House earlier to book my tour for Monday, then short-cut through the botanical gardens when I noticed the signboard that the house and grounds were open. (The Royal Botanical Gardens completely wrap and surround Government House.) I hadn’t planned this, hadn’t even expected it, but did enjoy my Garden Tour of South Australia’s Government House in Adelaide – so why not?

Yes, It Does look Like A Castle

Grounds Map

My Only Indoor Photo – Shot Through the Front Door Window

Room Where Governor Meets With Her Advisors

East Facade

View Towards Farm Cove Waterfront

Drawing Rooms Arcade

circa-1845 Native Moreton Bay Fig / Ficus macrophylla

Saturday, March 9 – The 1868 Town Hall was constructed in phases over twenty years. It is used throughout the year for any number of special civic events. My highlight was the Centennial Hall addition and the 9,000 pipe organ. Town Hall has been closed to the general public for five years. Today was its reopening with self-guided tours, an organ recital, lectures and arts and crafts activities for the kiddos. The public was keen to once again go inside and marvel at the architectural splendor of this earlier era.

Floor Plan

Vestibule / Dome / Chandelier

Hallways / Stairwells / Stained Glass Windows

Centennial Hall

Afterwards I needed lunch. I came across the 1891 Strand Arcade straddling George Street and the Pitt Street Mall. These shopping venues always have small cafe’s in addition to boutiques and repair shops.

Avocado on Multi-Grain Toast with Blood Orange Soda

Treasures!

Original Gown by Manning Cartell

Melbourne-Based Koko Black Easter Chocolates

After lunch I headed over to the Capitol Theater in Chinatown. Shen Yun opened last night. There was a 2 PM matinee today and I was able to walk in the lobby at 1:30 PM for “A Nosy”. Success! Prior to COVID this theater gave guided tours but they have yet to restore the service. An understanding usher actually allowed me into the upstairs auditorium to have a quick look and take a few photos. I timed it to about 10 minutes before curtain and most everyone was seated, lol. I am now two for two on the theaters!

1893 – 1928 Capitol Theatre

In the late afternoon I arrived back at the hostel, had a cold drink and began catch-up on the blog. I’m simultaneously writing five chapters for Sydney, and as usual the end chapters (This one and one other) are the ones already finished.

My Newly Discovered Favourite: Fruit Juices with Chewy Lychee “Jellies”

What is travel without valuable and tasteful souvenirs? I generally stay out of “Souvenir Shops”, but this one window display caught my eye…

Christmas Leftovers

How “Roo – ed”!

Monday, March 11 – Some time ago I reached out to the Aussie Tiki Community on Facebook that I was visiting and would like to meet up anyone that would like to have a chat and a drink.

I heard from Shane in Newcastle, about two hours away from Sydney. While we couldn’t get together he graciously mailed me a pair of Hades Hula House swizzle sticks which has been on my Holy Grail list for some time. As a thank you I was able to send him my last Wilfred’s and Kapu swizzles from Northern California.

The Swizzlers

But I was able to meet up with Bevan and his wife Annette at their home in Campbelltown, about an hour out of town on the train. We had a lovely evening talking story, imbibing in Mai-Tais and Dark & Stormies, while I savored their tiki collection. Not surprisingly, they had some nice pieces from Papau New Guninea. The couple had been in California about the same time last year I had been there. I was mesmerized with all the tiki locations they visited from San Diego to Napa. Like all good collectors, they had brought back home a plethora of tiki artifacts.

Bevan / Annette

Happy Hour @ the “Fork & Spoon Tiki Room”

Coconuts on the Poop Deck

Smile Awhile, Crocodile!

Tiki Mobile

Towards the end of the evening they gifted me a swizzle, some coasters, a menu and a mai-tai glass from their private bar, the Fork and Spoon Tiki Room. I wasn’t expecting such hospitality, but then again the Tiki Ohana is a generous family and we like to share our tiki treasures with others when we can. Mahalo nui loa Bevan and Annette! I look forward showing you the same level of hospitality Stateside on your next visit in the Pacific Northwest.

Jacoby’s is Sydney’s Local Tiki Bar

Tuesday, March 12 – I had a free evening, so grabbed another train to the Newtown Station and visited Jacoby’s on my own, arriving around 7:30 PM. It was very quiet, but had nice conversations with the Irish bar-tender and a couple of patrons. I could have ordered anything on and off menu, but decided on the rum punch. It was excellent!

Not Much to Look At From Sidewalk

Very Pleasant Interior

My Rum Punch Next to Vancouver, Canada’s Shameful Tiki Mug

One Happy Skipper!

Tee-Shirts For Sale

The bar tender comped me a few coasters and a menu. No swizzles, but each drink is individually artistically garnished. The food menu was limited to pizza from a nearby pizzeria. I wasn’t in the mood for pizza at a TikiBar, so afterwards found a Thai place a few doors down and enjoyed a yummy vegetarian Satay flat rice noodle dish.

Looks Disgusting, But So Delicious!

Warratah Electric Trains

I was so impressed with the electric, double-decker Sydney trains! The latest fleet had the bodies manufactured in China, while the mechanics were constructed and assembled in Newcastle, Australia from 2018- 2021. The seats can be flipped in either direction, depending which way the train is traveling.

Thursday, March 14 – My last full day in Sydney. I enjoyed my previous ferry trips to Luna Park, Barangaroo and Manly. I had a free day so decided to go as far as I could in another direction to see some different scenery. Over distance the harbor narrowed down into a heavily vegetated river. I ended up in the neighborhood of Parramatta on the Parramatta River. The trip took a couple hours roundtrip, but was worth it. The amount of urban development was surprising and intensive. There are clusters of high-rises going up everywhere in the outer neighborhoods and suburbs surrounding Sydney.

My Ferry

Vintage Harbor Living

Metropolis Living

Yikes!

End of the Journey: Parramatta River Vegetation

I‘ve had numerous room-mates the two weeks I was in Sydney from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Italy, Spain, Argentina and other locales. Sydney really is an international city. Travelers, often younger travelers were impressed I was from the United States. People still want to come visit the States. It’s nice to know that America still holds some level of esteem in the world. My last room-mate I chatted with was 27-year old Jason from Taiwan. He was very gregarious, intelligent and just fun to be around. He also thought I was 35! Really? Really! Gotta love the younger generation!

Fine Rooftop Dining at the Sydney Harbour YHA

This entire journey I’ve been showcasing the YHA facilities. I hope more people will stay in hostels. Yes there are young people in their 20’s, but couples, families, and groups of all ages, nationalities and languages stay in these properties. There are dorms (My choice), but also private rooms with en-suite restrooms and family rooms. Staying at a hostel is like visiting the United Nations. Australia and New Zealand have some of the best hostels in the world. Please check out Hostelling International / Youth Hostel Association on the web. This non-profit organization has hostels in over 70 countries.

NEXT TIME: Climb Every Mountain