When planning a trip to the Oktoberfest celebration in Helen, Georgia, I get excited about the food, especially the food at Bigg Daddys Restaurant. My mouth waters when I think about that place.

Luckily, I was able to combine a trip to the mountains with a stop over in Helen. I made it to Oktoberfest. After walking around the Oktoberfest festivities for a while, I was hungry. I was too hungry for a little snack. I needed some real food. I’d eaten at Bigg Daddys during a previous Oktoberfest, so I knew where I wanted to go, but I didn’t remember how to get there. I asked for directions, and then I asked the million dollar question. Can I walk or should I drive?

One of the people whom I spoke with told me that it was an easy walk to Bigg Daddys. The second person told me that it was a good four blocks away, and I had the impression that she wouldn’t recommend walking. It was humid, and I was already tired, but I decided to walk anyway.

Bigg Daddys is around the corner and down the street from a Wendy’s. It’s a short distance from the “festhalle” which is the Chamber of Commerce building. Once you find it, it’s easy to recognize Bigg Daddys, from its large triangular-shaped roof. There are also signs identifying the restaurant.

When I entered Bigg Daddys I was grateful for the  cool air from the air conditioner. It was a sharp contrast from the muggy air outside.  The place was pretty full and very loud. Many of the patrons had their eyes glued to the TVs, and they would erupt into screams from the plays made in the game they were watching. I assumed that it was a Falcon’s football game.  I was seated in the back of the restaurant, because I wanted to eat inside, and there weren’t many seats left. There’s a large patio where many people were already munching on their food.

I wanted the coolest air from the air conditioner, and I wanted something freezing cold to drink. When the sever came over to take my order, I couldn’t wait to order a frozen drink, but there were no frozen drinks on the drink menu that the server directed me to. I could get something sweet on ice, so I decided to get some sweet tea.

I looked over the menu and couldn’t decide between the fish and the ribs. I had the fish last time, and it was great. That’s why I was back a second time… Should I have something different? I explained my dilemma to the server and she practically solved my problem when she said that I’d get a ton of food if I ordered the ribs.

The ribs came with the choice of two sides, so I ordered fries and macaroni. My server kept my glass of tea filled. A few minutes later, I was so full, that I could not eat another bite. I sat and people-watched for a while. I called my server to bring me the bill, but she was so busy that I had to ask another server to get her so I could pay.

When my server showed up, she had a to-go carton ready for me. I was a bit annoyed that I had to have someone get her, but I got over that when she arrived with that to-go box. I love intuitive restaurant servers.

I’m so glad that I found Bigg Daddy’s, and I chose to eat there again. I tore up the leftovers when I got home later that night. The barbecue had just the perfect flavor. I chose to have sauce instead of the dry rub. The sauce had a smokey flavor. I was glad that the pork was meaty, not fatty. I hate fatty barbecue. I really enjoyed the barbecue at Bigg Daddys, and the fish that I had on my previous trip was good, too. I can’t wait for my next visit there.

Yes. There’s beer at Oktoberfest in Helen, Georgia. There’s plenty of beer to partake in, but this Oktoberfest destination is also oodles of fun for families, also. Helen is naturally beautiful. The city looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. There’s even a store that pays respect to Hansel and Gretel. As I walked down the streets (which thankfully are not cobblestone) I heard a mother tell her delighted young son, “There’s Hansel and Gretel.”

Old Fashioned Fun for Oktoberfest

Helen doesn’t have to don decorations in homage of Oktoberfest. It’s an alpine city year-round. Nestled in the mountains, visitors will find homemade fudge, ice cream, and pretzels sold in the picturesque stores. Horses clop down the street, which is busy with SUVs, sedans, and tour buses. Yet, the horses pulling the carriages seem not to be bothered by all of the racket. The tourists in the carriages are delighted.  A horse walked slowly and steadily in front of my rental car, and I learned another lesson in patience.

I walked past a little old man playing the drums on the sidewalk. A couple of bystanders were drawn to him and chatted with him. Another performer sung German songs under a shelter,  and down the street yet another singer sung upbeat melodies on a stage. His audience members were ordering up all of the beer they could handle. Their voices were animated and jovial, festive. I’m not a beer drinker, but I thought about joining them for a hot minute. I didn’t, because there was so much more to see.

Festhalle Fun at Oktoberfest in Helen Georgia

The Chamber of Commerce building is the home of the Festhalle, an indoor venue with scheduled shows and plenty of singing, dancing and beer-drinking. ID’s are required to drink, but all ages are invited. There’s even a dance floor for the kiddies, and children under 6 can enter the for free. It’s half-price for kids who are 6 to 12. Admission is $8 Monday through Fridays. It’s $10 for adults on Saturdays, and it’s free to get in on Sundays. The Festhalle is open in the evenings, from 6 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. from Mondays thru Thursdays and 6 p.m. until midnight on Fridays, 1 p.m. until midnight on Saturdays and 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Sundays.  There’s more information about the Festhalle in Helen, Georgia on this calendar.

During the daytime hours, I saw dozens of people walking. Many people had pets with them. Pets are allowed in an area of the Festhalle, I read, but you should ask the Oktoberfest organizers first, to be sure. I even saw a sign in front of one of the small restaurants on the main drag, which said that the restaurant accepts well-mannered leashed pets. Not all restaurants accept, pets, though. However, some of them have outdoor seating, so you’ll have a better chance getting those restaurants to accept your pets.

To take a break from the excitement, some visitors like to float down the Chattahoochee River to relax and cool off.  Cool River Tubing is one of the popular companies for this activity. You’ll probably see a Cool Tubing bus going down the street during your visit. The water is calm and the breeze will feel great. It can get hot in Helen, even in the fall.

Are you planning to visit Utah? Here are some ideas for your Utah bucket list. Even if it wasn’t a destination that thought you’d want to visit, read on. Pour over these lovely images for inspiration for things to do in Utah.

Bryce National Park

Utah Bucket List Photo of Bryce Canyon by Don Graham, Creative Commons

Those of you are fit and are up to the challenge at Bryce Canyon should try hiking the Navajo/Queens Garden Loop trail. Be careful, because the trail slopes downward. You will see eventually see Thor’s Hammer, a popular rock formation.

Thor’s Hammer one of the popular formations that you’ll see in Bryce Canyon. The view of the hammer and the surrounding hoodoo formations is amazing at sunset.

The Queens Garden is a short moderate  trail that you might want in conjunction with the Navajo Loop. The Visitors’ Bureau warns that you might encounter steep dips in the trail and loose gravel, but you’ll see some cool hoodoo formations.

Zion National Park

Utah Bucket List Photo by Les Haines, Creative Commons

If you are looking for an easy, yet beautiful hike to add to your Utah bucket list, consider visiting  Zion National Park. The Narrows is one of the easiest hikes to see, because you can take the paved wheelchair path that leads out to it. Those of you who are more adventurous can wade in the river.  You will get your feet wet, but you’re going to keep your shoes on due to the rocky, slippery terrain. Wear shoes with good soles for those conditions.

Utah Bucket List Destination of Zion National park By Thomas

You are more likely to spot a mule deer, a bighorn sheep, or a fox among the reported 68  mammals that you’ll see in Zion National Park according to the National Park Service.

Canyonlands National Park

If you want to do some sightseeing without a crowd of other people fulling Utah bucket list experiences, Canyonlands might be a good national park for you to visit. Islands in the Sky may offer you a quieter and calmer trip (because there’s usually fewer people there).

Tough and athletic types might want to add a bike ride in Canyonlands National Park to your Utah bucket list. The 100-mile White Rim Trail takes some planning. In addition to the gear that you’ll need, you’ll also need to get a permit to stay in the park overnight. Be careful! It was recently reported that a biker had a terrible fall at Canyonlands.

Of course, you can ride an easier path in nearby Dead Horse Point State Park. Here’s a map to help you navigate the bike trails. 

Arches National Park

Add a visit to Arches National Park to your Utah bucket list! If you are looking for easy hikes with lots to see, get to Arches. It’s only a few hours away from Salt Lake City.  However, you need to visit when the weather is cool. It gets extremely hot there. At Arches National Park, the arch-shaped rock formations are the big attraction for things to do in Utah. Delicate Arch, Firey Arch, and the Double Arch are the arches to see.  Arches National Park is busy, so it’s best to get there early, like right after sunrise, at sunset or at night.

See the Milky Way at the Arches National Park. The park is open 24 hours a day, reports the NPS. It’s an amazing sight to see the brilliant mass of stars, away from the bright lights of the city.

Capitol Reef National Park

Hiking to the Hickman National Bridge is among the things to do in Capitol National Park. It’s a moderate hike and park officials recommend it because of its great scenery. It’s also easy to get to from the Visitor’s Center and it is one of the one of the most popular trails.

See the Animals at Antelope State Park

Things to do at Antelope State Park photo by R. Nial Bradshaw, CC

Antelope State Park (Antelope Island) is worth a trip to see freely roaming bison. You can also see mule deer, bighorn sheep, and antelope, too. And if you are into beaches, the park has a sandy beach at the Bridger Bay Day-Use Area. There are trails to hike, you can rent a horse to ride, and you can even visit a historic homestead.

Caution: Be sure that you are aware of the insect situation before you go. Always wear and bring insect repellent. By the way, the park is about 41 miles away from Salt Lake City. The park’s hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and it’s closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Things to do in Utah: Antelope State Park, photo by Jon Roberts, CC

Dinosaur National Monument

See where the dinosaurs roamed in Utah. The Dinosaur National Monument has over a thousand fossils in the quarry. It’s located in both Utah and in Colorado. It’s east of Salt Lake City.

Go River Rafting

Live on the wild side. Take a river rafting trip on Green River in Utah. You can find many companies that provide guided trips like Don Hatch River Trips.

Sundance Film Festival

Get dolled up and attend the famous Sundance Music Festival for Independent Films. It’s held at Park City and Salt Lake City.

Utah Shakespeare Festival

Every year dozens of people visit the Utah Shakespeare Festival held from July to September at Southern Utah University. The performances are held on replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, The Randall L. Jones Theatre, and  The Eileen and Allen Anes Studio Theatre. The latter theaters are are modern-style theaters. In addition to the performances, there are workshops about period costumes, acting working workshops and more. The Utah Shakespeare Festival is a Tony Award winning event.

Plan the perfect trip to the Essence Festival 2018. Here’s your check-list of things you need to know about Essence Festival hotels, concerts, and seating.

So, You Want to See Janet?

Janet Jackson,  Erykah Badu, Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott, The Roots, Daniel Caesar, and H.E.R. are some of the headliners for the Essence Festival 2018 at the Mercedes Benz Superdome. It’s past time to get to planning that trip to New Orleans.

If you want to see Janet, her show is on Sunday, July 8th. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. Other celebrities performing those nights include Fantasia, Teddy Riley, Wreckx-N-Effect and Blackstreet. Tickets start at $80 and go up to more than $1,500.

Still more in the scheduled line-up include:

• DVSN
• Louis york
• 112
• Victory
• Big Fredia
• DJ Jubilee
• The Read
• Ro James

The performances at the SuperDome begin on July 6th. On that Friday night, you have Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Snoop Dogg, The Roots, Miguel (and 19 other performers like KeKe Wyatt, MC Lyte, Kelly Price, and Kool Moe Dee).  There are no promises that they will all appear and they might appear in any order.  Here’s the ticket information for July 6th.

Essence Festival Concert Performers for July 6, 2018

• Whodini
• YoYo
• The Lady of Rage
• D.J. Captain Charles
• Pell

Essence Festival Concert Performers for July 7, 2018

On Saturday, July 7, 2018 Mary J. Blige, Queen Latifah, Xscape,  Doug E. Fresh. Other performers include:

• Yanina

Prepare for Your Concert at the Superdome

The best seats, front and center, in the Superdome are in section BB. Rows 1 to 25 are the closest to the stage. On the right or left of the center are are sections,  AA and CC are on either side.  Any of the sections with a letter-name are good. They are all pretty close to the stage at the Superdome. The farthest sections are numbered.  Sections 139-145 are still in the middle, but they are a farther out from lettered sections.

Weekend packages are sold out, but individual concert tickets are still available.

You might want to take a special look at sections 126 (left of the stage, looking at the map) and section 101 and 102 (on the right side). These are pretty close numbered sections that are not in the center. Sections 101 and 102 are behind the VIP section, which is behind the stage.

If you are unable to get the closest seats at the Superdome for the Essence Festival, well, the farthest seats are in the 600th row. Remember that the Superdome is shaped like a big circle, so these seats are in the outer ring of the dome.

Essence Festival Events at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

Did you know that there are tons of events and show at the festival that are totally free? Yes. During the daytime hours at  the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the festival comes alive with food demonstrations, beauty and fashion, motivational speeches and entertainment. You have to register to attend the free events in the Convention Center.

Essence Eats

Essence has invited a slew of chefs to show off their talents at the Essence Eats section of the conference in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The chefs will demonstrate various cooking styles on stage. There’s an eating area where you can buy to eat, too.

The Empowerment Experience

Hear motivational speeches and life advice from some of the greatest minds in the words in Essences’s Empowerment Experience. In the past Oprah Winfrey and Al Sharpton were part of the line-up of role models who graced the stage.

Beauty & Style Expo

Get beauty tips, a mini make-over,  beauty consultations and see beauty and fashion demonstrations at the Beauty and Style Expo. Get your free samples here!

Free Entertainment All-Access at the Convention Center

Celebrities from the performances and others will be posted at the Entertainment all Access section in the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center at the Essence Festival. Get photos with your favorite celebrities and meet them in the Fan Zone, hear live interviews from them at Center Stage and watch special sneak peaks in the Screening Room.

Hotels Near the Essence Festival

Have you made your hotel reservations yet? After you secure your festival tickets, you’ll want to jump on securing a hotel room right away. You have several choices for hotels near the Superdome.

Hyatt House New Orleans

The residential style Hyatt House is perfect for groups or people who just want a little extra space for their stay during the Essence Festival. The Hyatt House is next to the Hyatt Regency. They are connected by a bridge.

Features: Free wi-fi, 24-hour food options, 24-hour fitness center, fully equipped kitchens, pool

Compare prices for Hyatt House reservations and read guest reviews here.

Hyatt Regency New Orleans

The Hyatt Regency. Superdome is a mere 8-minute walk to the Superdome nd the Essence Festival, so if convenience is what you are looking for, here it is. Imagine being able to step out of our hotel with your friends and stroll over to the workshops, concerts, etc. Be sure to check rates as soon as you can!

Features: Free wi-fi, room service, 24-hour fitness center, rooftop saltwater pool, multiple on-site restaurants

Take a look at the prices, compare prices, and read reviews for the Hyatt Regency.

The Roosevelt

A Waldorf Astoria property, the Roosevelt Hotel. New Orleans has its own spa,  a rooftop pool, and little touches like shoe shining, give guests a luxurious hotel experiences minutes away from the Superdome.

Features: Spa, parking ($46 a day for registered guests, plus an overnight tax), in-room internet $14, free “public” internet, in-room dining, several restaurants and bars in the hotel.

Find the best deal, compare hotel prices, and read about the experiences that other travels had at the Roosevelt Hotel here.

InterContinental New Orleans

You might pay a little more, for the InterContinental Hotel in New Orleans but the extra services like the limo service and car service (at an extra cost) can make things a whole lot easier during your stay.

Features: Concierge, free wi-fi, roof-top pool, 24-hour dining, fitness center, on-site dining, babysitting services,  car/limo service (for an extra fee)

Find the best deal, check prices, and read reviews for the InterContinental in New Orleans

Crowne Plaza Astor

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Astor is located on Bourbon Street.  Depending on how you travel, the hotel is less than one mile away from the Superdome. It has some of the most luxurious amenities like 24-hour room service, a bed and breakfast package, and a concierge.

Features: self-parking , valet parking (starting at $46), free wifi, on-site restaurant, dry cleaning service

Airport shuttle available

Check for availability, read reviews and check prices for the Crowne Plaza Hotel Astor.

Best Western Plus St. Christopher

The Best Western Plus St. Christoper has a completely different look from what you might be used to.

Features: Free continental breakfast (bacon, sausage, pancakes and more), free wireless internet, concierge, spa available, valet parking $37 to $43). 

Find the best deal, compare prices, and read stories from other travelers who have stayed at the Best Western Plus St. Christopher

Hotel Moteleone

Hotel Monteleone has it’s charms, especially if you are drawn to a hotel with a colorful history. It’s one of the few family-owned hotels around.

Features: valet parking ($40 per day for regular sized cars) on-site restaurant and bar (well-known nightlife spot on the premises) heating rooftop pool, 24-hour fitness center

Find the best deal, check prices, and read reviews for Hotel Monteleone.

Bourbon Orleans Hotel

The Bourbon Orleans Hotel has a set itself apart by having a saltwater pool.

Features: Fitness center,valet parking, laundry service, and in-room dining

Find the best deal, check prices, and read what other travelers have to say about the Bourbon Orleans Hotel.

Place D’ Armes Hotel

The Place d’ Armes has restored  18th Century buildings and sits inside the center of the French Quarter. It’s walking distance to Bourbon Street and also close to the Superdome. This charming hotel is also near the famous Cafe du Monde where you can stuff yourself with lots of beignets.

Features: swimming  pool, balcony suites

Check availability and prices for the Place d’ Armes here.

Photo by Peter Burka, Creative Commons Attribution License

Transportation To and Around New Orleans for the Essence Festival

You are most likely going to either drive or take a flight into New Orleans.  If you do drive to New Orleans, you will probably have to pay for parking nightly at your hotel. It seems to be about $40 or more per night.

If you’re taking a flight, you’ll arrive at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, which is about 14 miles from the airport. From the airport, you can arrange a shuttle or get a taxi to your hotel. It’s probably wise to pre-arrange this, because taxis might be limited.

Contact Airport Shuttle New Orleans for Shuttle Services. It’s $24 per person for the service one way. You can arrange for round-trip travel and pay $44 and have your transportation back to the airport to catch your flight back home set.

Take a street car to and from the Essence Festival: Photo by Nan Palmero, Creative Commons License

You can take use public transportation services (buses, streetcars, etc.)  from the Regional Transit Authority to get around the area. Use the app to buy tickets and the online online planner, maps and schedule to guide you around the area.  Of course, there’s Uber, Lyft and taxi services, too. Download everything you need before you leave for the festival.

Here’s What Pack for the Essence Festival

It’s going to hot in New Orleans, very hot. Definitely pack cool, light-weight shorts. Rompers like the one on the right from Amazon are cute and classy.Buy a few in different styles and patterns, and you’ll be ready to hit the streets and see the sights at the Essence Festival, while looking cool and collected.

Perfect for those daytime workshops and events, you’ll find this romper in multiple colors (you don’t have to get white!) on Amazon.

Stock Up on Sassy T-Shirts

Pack this t-shirt because there’s nothing wrong with telling the truth.

… And some shorts!

Throw on a pair of distressed jeans that stretch to your shape and a cute t-shirt. You’ll be ready to go. These are shorts but not so short that you are showing off too much.

Pack Maxi or Mini Dresses or Maybe Both!

This maxi dress with shorts has had a lot of positive reviews on Amazon. It doesn’t look as super-sexy as it does in this photo. The customer photos on Amazon will give you an idea of how it really looks. It’s cute, though. It’s probably more appropriate for club hopping on Bourbon Street or showing out in the evening at the festival.

Sometimes all you need is something simple. Pack a flowing maxi dress for a simple, sophisticated look. Don’t forget your shades!

Comfortable Festival Shoes

Comfortable shoes are a must! Flats with good airflow will help you enjoy the events at the conference center or concerts instead of worrying about your feet. Soft soles that cushion your steps will help, too.

The Essence Festival will take place at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in 2018. Photo of the Superdome by Phil Roeder, Creative Commons Attribution License

Time is running out!  Mother’s Day Packages, hotel or brunch, reservations are all you’ll need to get to ball rolling for a Mother’s Day that the women in your life will remember. Here are some ides of some of the best Mother’s Day Packages. Hotel reservations need to made now! Mother’s Day is is May 13, 2018.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Image courtesy of Rosen Shingle  Creek, Orlando

The Rosen Shingle Creek, Orlando has some cute ideas for Mother’s Day.  Your mother will like the Mom’s Apron Strings Package, which  includes a breakfast buffet for two and discounts on golf, spa services, valet parking and more. Yes. Mom gets an apron, too.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Image courtesy of Rosen Creek Shingle Creek Orlando

 Image courtesy of Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Image courtesy of Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando

Ahhhh… Mothers everywhere could use sometime at the spa! Rosen Shingle Creek’s Spa-cation is another option for a sweet mother who needs some me-time. This package includes a 50-minute massage or facial, a free breakfast buffet for two, a discount for the Mother’s Day buffet,  a two-night stay for $399 in Rosen’ Creek’s Deluxe accommodations and other treats. See the full details for Rosen Shingle Creek’s Mother’s Day Packages.

Mother’s Day Packages Hotel: Image courtesy of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Mothers can let their daily stress melt away at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. This beachfront hotel is offering deluxe accommodations with a late (2 p.m.) check-out time for Sunday, May 13, 2018. All moms everywhere should have the chance to sleep in!

Image courtesy of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach

A 20% discount for the Fontainebleau’s Lapis Spa and a 15% discount for the salon are included in the Mother’s Day Package; hotel guests who stay an extra night at the Miami hotel, receive a 50% discount on the package.

 Image courtesy of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Get ready to eat! Brunch for two for your choice of once of  the Fontainebleau’s eateries, Scarpetta or Vida is also a part of the package at the Fontainebleau.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel: Image courtesy of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Mother’s Day Package, Hotel and Brunch: Image courtesy of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Treat mom to a comfortable Mother’s Day with the Carolina Comforts Mother’s Day Package at the Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando. The package includes a room and either the Saturday Night Prime Rib buffet or the Friday Night Seafood buffet.

Mother’s Day Packages Hotel: Image courtesy of the Omni Grove Park Inn

Go beyond ordinary and take your Mom on a helicopter tour of Catalina island. This Hotel and Heli package will amaze your mom.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Photo courtesy of the Catalina Company

A stay at either the  Mt. Ada Inn, a beautiful inn with historic decor, or the the Pavilion Hotel on Catalina Island are included in the package.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Photo courtesy of the Catalina Company

Local people know the inn as the well-loved destination for William Wrigley, the founder of Wrigley’s chewing gum,  and his wife Ada. The inn has only six rooms, so you can expect a cozy atmosphere and personalized attention.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Photo courtesy of the Catalina Company

Let the lulling sounds of the ocean help Mom drift off to sleep during her stay at the Pavilion. Active Moms can ride a bike around the island, play miniature golf, or participate in a free tour during their stay at the Pavilion.

Mother’s Day Packages, Hotel and Brunch: Photo courtesy of the Catalina Company