See the World Without Leaving Provo

Next time you’re feeling a little “trapped” inside “liitle ol’ Provo, Utah” take a trip to a distant land by transforming your apartment into another country. Pick a country and make it the theme for your evening. For dinner, find a recipe online or from your local library associated with your country and find out what ingredients you need to get. Either get your ingredients before or as part of your evening and gather everything the recipe calls for. While dinner is on the stove or in the oven, do some research on the culture, people, history and famous sites of the country. (Hint: a quick and easy place to find info is the Provo City Library).

If you know of some traditional games or activities associated with the country try some of them out after dinner (i.e. Making Fabrege eggs or building a snow cave for a Russian night; Writing Japanese/Chinese Characters with paintbrushes; Building the Eiffel Tower out of candy; Making a Bedouin Tent in your Living Room). Or if you prefer an easier route, rent a travel film about the respective country and learn about the country through the film. Movies are also an easy way to continue the theme of an evening. You could document the fun you have by making your own travel film about the country and the things you've learned. If you have time: dressing in traditional clothing, listening to foreign music and decorating your apartment all can add spice to the evening.

OTHER HINTS: Provo is a gathering place for people from around the world with various backgrounds, interests, tastes, and cultures. Take advantage of it by making new friends and meeting new people. If someone is from another country or has visited another country invite them over for a cultural night, ask if they could share some things about their culture and country with you. Don't rule out your Professors either, many have traveled numerous places and might even enjoy sharing some of their experiences with you. Ask what fun or tasty dishes they would recommend to make and offer to provide the ingredients if they teach you how to make it.

The BYU Kennedy Center also has guest lectures from various parts of the world that speak on a sundry of topics. Sometimes they take place in the evenings. You might consider working those or other campus sponsored events that into part of your travel itinerary for your night in another culture.

Crandall Printing Museum

For a larger group activity, a fun and educational experience is visiting the somewhat small but amazing Printing Museum located on Provo Center Street (275 East Center Street). The Crandall Printing Museum features replicas of famous historic print shops and printing presses including a re-creation of the world's oldest printing house. Visitors watch as type is cast and a page of the Gutenberg Bible is printed. The experience is sure to be one of a kind and is operated by a few men who are very knowledgeable about the history and development of the printing world.

The museum functions as a tour through time as visitors see everything from the printing of the Gutenberg Bible, significant events of the revolutionary war period, and the reproduction of the Book of Mormon Press in Palmyra, New York. The tour usually takes about two hours but its well worth your party’s time if they are interested in an intriguing educational experience.

It does cost money and they usually like to give tours to groups of appx. 15 or more. Call ahead to schedule an appointment and arrange the prices.

Hours: Weekdays, 9am to 2pm. Group Tours are available at any time, by appointment.
Minimum charge of $45 for group tour (includes 15 visitors). Additional visitors are $3 each.
Cost: $3 per person
Phone: (801) 377-7777

For more information please visit the website: http://www.crandallmuseum.com/

Provo and Salt Lake Cemeteries

For a unique and interesting excursion, visiting the local cemetery can be an as good as time travel. With a little bit of research and some imagination, a trip to Provo Cemetery or Salt Lake Cemetery can make for a fun experience. Have each person choose someone to learn about and then take turns teaching each other about that individual as you search for the grave markers. When you find who your looking for, be sure to read epitaphs and note monuments as you move along.

History can be transformed to real life as you experience these wonderful sanctuaries. And please note, they are sanctuaries so please be respectful.

The links below include lists of prominent people and where they are buried in the cemeteries throughout Utah, specifically Provo and Salt Lake. There are also internet databases in case you want to look up a family name, ancestor, etc.

http://www.provo.org/parks.cemet_main.html

http://history.utah.gov/apps/burials/execute/searchburials

A few prominent figures buried in the Provo Cemetery are Philo Farnsworth (inventor of television); Reed Smoot (LDS Apostle and US Senator); Jesse Knight (wealthy entrepreneur of Utah Valley); Dan Jones (LDS missionary and riverboat captain). A more extensive list of prominent figures and map where they are located within the Provo Cemetery can be found at this link: Provo Cemetery Map

The Salt Lake City Cemetery is the largest and oldest cemetery in Utah. A number of prominent members of the LDS Church, including ten former Presidents of the Church, and also the self-proclaimed bodyguard of the Joseph Smith, Orin Porter Rockwell, are buried in the Salt Lake Cemetery.

Hours of Operations are found on the Salt Lake City’s website, as well as a link to an interesting article discussing people buried in Utah cemeteries that cannot be missed. The article notes findagrave.com as a great resource for locating graves of famous people. A good source for learning more information about prominent people in Utah history.

The Salomon Center

As though Utah wasn't enough of an outdoor state, the Salomon Center provides simulated outdoor experiences for those unable to brave the real elements, especially when conditions aren't ideal for outdoor activities.

In addition to typical activities like bowling, arcade games, billiards, miniature golf and bumper cars, the Salomon Center features wild adventures that most Utahns wouldn't try otherwise, including the largest indoor climbing wall in Utah, Flowrider--an indoor surfing experience, and even a vertical wind tunnel where you can feel like you're skydiving without having to worry whether or not your chute will open.

And that's all just on the first floor. Take the stairs up to the second and you'll find a Gold's Gym with a running track, a weight room, a swimming pool, a sauna and a basketball court (to name a few features). Once you're done working off that last meal, there are two restaurants to refill at: the Pizza Factory and Costa Vida.


Finally, the mezzanine is home to a dance academy, an indoor track and both physical and massage therapy locations.
My first impression of this place was that it was a cop-out for "real" people who like to do "real" things, but as it turns out it's intensely cool. Being less of a risk-taker myself, the Salomon Center is a great place, even if just to ease me into trying out the activities in "real" life.

Salt Lake City Carriage Rides

What better way to see the lights on Temple Square than from the seat of a horse drawn carriage. Half hour rides begin at Temple Square and travel on Main Street throughout downtown Salt Lake and Gallivan Plaza to see all of the many light displays. Rides are $50 a half hour and blankets are provided. Reservations aren't required, but some nights there may be a a bit of a wait.

Although a beautiful way to see the Christmas lights, carriage rides are available year round. Whether you are just wanting to learn a little more about the history of downtown Salt Lake or want to take a date for a romantic ride through Memory Grove, Carriage For Hire is the perfect solution. Because drivers are allowed to go anywhere in the city, they can pick you up and drop you off where ever you'd like. For more information visit the Carriage for Hire website at http://www.carriageforhire.net/

The Pie

Any true pizza lover meets his match in The Pie Pizzeria, one of the best-known pizza places in Utah, and the self-proclaimed home of the 23" giant pie. The original Pie is in Salt Lake, just west of the U of U campus, but you have to look a little harder to find it, as it hides in a cozy, underground lair.

One of the most memorable features of this restaurant are the bricks covered with who knows how many layers of writing from previous patrons, who came, ate and left their mark. Some sign their names, some write insightful or witty lines, and some send messages to the next booth occupant.

To those who haven't tried the food before, a few notes: get the rootbeer. Try a pizza with toppings that you don't usually like, or, if pizza isn't your cup of tea, get a zappi (their version of a calzone), a sub, soup or a salad. Whatever you get, it will be good, as generations of Pie-goers will testify.

The Pie is, in almost a literal way, an underground catacomb filled with the written remains of fellow-pizza lovers. Go to relax, go to read, but, most importantly, go to eat.

Location: 1320 E 200 S, Salt Lake City
Web site: www.thepie.com
(Go Here to see a live video feed from the restaurant!)
Prices: $8.99-35.99 (depending on size and toppings on pizza)
Times: Mon-Thur 11am-1am, Fri-Sat 11am-3am, Sun noon-11pm

I Want to Ride my Bicycle...

Living in Utah Valley provides access to some of the best mountain biking this country has to offer. In less an hour drive from BYU or UVSC you can find literally dozens, if not hundreds, of different trails (for a comprehensive list of all trails visit www.utahmountainbiking.com).

After being here in the valley for about a year I decided it was time to purchase a new bike and begin riding again. That decision is probably one of the best I have ever made. Biking is a great way to stay in shape and take advantage of the beautiful area while you are here. These are the different ways that I like to ride.

This is one of my favorite dirt trails in the area--Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Just head up Provo Canyon and jump on the trail at Bridal Veil Falls park. The scenery is amazing and the trail is good for experienced riders and rookies alike.

Utah Valley has plenty of road for cyclists who want to ride like Lance Armstrong. For the full experience be sure to get yourself a cycling jersey and shorts--you may turn some heads while getting in shape. Be sure to take advantage of the city and country roads in the area. The city is close but nothing beats riding between the cornfields. Both ways are great to ride.

The Provo River Parkway Trail will take you on a leisurely ride from Utah Lake to Vivian Park in Provo Canyon. Because the trail is paved and flat this is an easy ride and one that is great for the whole family. If you are gonna ride in the summer time be sure to wear sunglasses and keep your mouth closed or you may end up swallowing enough bugs to feed you for a week.

Thai Ruby

For the most delicious Thai food in Provo, you have to visit Thai Ruby, located at 744 East 820 North in Provo. Although small, the cozy atmosphere is one of escape and tranquility. The menu is full of authentic Thai cuisine that intrigues your taste buds and leaves you wanting to try more. My personal favorite is the red curry and pad Thai, but it's especially fun to go with a group of people and share a little bit of everyone's plate. Don't leave without trying the most delicious thing on the menu, dessert! The mango, rice, cinnamon concoction is unlike anything you've ever tasted! For more information visit their website http://www.thairubyfood.com/

Local Ethnic Food

This post comes after seeking the recommendation of a friend, Derek, on finding the best ethnic restaurants in the area. Not only is Derek an avid Food Network watcher, he also happens to eat our regularly, and he has been testing local eateries for nearly six years now. This is what Derek has to say:

These are my opinions, but I am an expert, so you can consider them fact. Just joking. Here are some of my favorites:
Chinese-
Four Seasons Hot Pot and Dumpling House on University Ave.
-Best authentic mainland Chinese food you can get around here, bar none.
South American-
Se Llama Peru at 368 W Center Street in Provo.
-Anyone who wants to bring back their South American mission memories should go here, diarrhea included.
Mexican-
Maria Bonita at 171 W 800 N. in Orem.
-Best variety, service, and food of any Mexican place in the valley. Miles beyond that Las Tarascas place that always wins awards.
Korean-
Sam Hawk at 660 N Freedom Blvd in Provo.
-Go in there on Friday night and you'll believe me when I say Koreans freakin' love this place, and that is always a good sign.
Japanese/Sushi-
Bangkok Tokyo at 3368 N University Ave just north of Magelby's Fresh in Provo.
-Nobody knows about this place, but they have killer sushi and all the Japanese favorites
Indian
Bombay House at 463 N University Ave in Provo.
-There is no other place better than this around here. Hands down the best place to eat in the valley.
Greek
Ultimate Broiler and Grill on State Street and 300 N in Orem.
-You wouldn't even know it was Greek food if you drove by, but these guys have the best food ever. The owner is a master pastry chef too and makes fresh French pastries every day.
Polynesian-not that anyone would like that food ;) (editor's note—Derek is Polynesian)
Matiki's Island Barbecue directly north of Ultimate Broiler and Grill in Orem.
-There's a reason both BYU and Utah's football coaches eat there regularly. Where else do you think they find those huge Polynesian linemen? Good island food.

I look forward to trying some of Derek's suggestions. I will let you know how it goes.

Adventures in the Country

My wife and I started going on "adventures" when we were first married a few years ago. When bored on Sunday afternoons we would just drive into the country and see what we could see. Sometimes we would just take turns picking a direction and other times we would just pick a dot on our map and go explore. You might be surprised at the wide variety of treasures you could find in the area if you went exploring.




Last weekend we took a drive out to Manti. We discovered many treasures on this trip--the Manti Temple is beautiful and worth a visit--but perhaps most exciting for a city-boy like myself was being stopped in the middle of the road by a herd of sheep.


We found this war memorial near Midway Utah in Heber County. The memorial lists the names of all Heber County residents who have fought in any American war, beginning with the War of 1812. The setting is beautiful as the memorial sits on top of a lonely hill in the middle of this mountain valley. It would be a great place to visit on Memorial Day or Veteran's Day.

Just imagine the little adventures you can have and the treasures you can find with a short drive into the country.

The Velour

The Velour Live Music Gallery is one of the premier local music venues in the Provo area. Located just a block from downtown Provo, it showcases both local and more prolific artists every Monday, Friday and Saturday, and sometimes in the middle of the week. Tuesday night is the designated "Open Mic Night," in which anyone can show up and play for both the audience and the owners. If the owners like your performance, they may schedule you for an actual show.
It's not just for the music that you should go to the Velour, although that certainly is the primary draw. The design of the interior is an aesthetic experience in and of itself, reminiscent of Bohemian-style theater. Some of the prominent features include faux stained-glass windows, red velvet curtains, avant-garde paintings, music posters and album covers, and dramatic lighting. It is a great way to understand the culture of Provo and its creative people.

Cost: varies, usually $5
Location: 135 N University Ave., Provo
Web site: www.velourlive.com
Phone: (801) 818-BAND

Juice 'n Java

This is THE place to go in Provo for a good drink (non-alcoholic of course). They serve a variety of natural fruit and vegetable juices, yum, and the most amazing hot chocolate you've ever had, seriously. It's small and kind of a hole in the wall, but aren't those the best kind of places anyway? Oh and its a free Wi Fi hotspot. So grab a book, your laptop, a sketchbook, your ipod or whatever you do to chill and go grab a drink. Personal favorite: white hot chocolate.

"It's flavorful and gourmet. And the setting is hip and a little alternative." ~ Brittany Bartholomew

280 W 100 N

Provo, UT 84601

801-375-5409

Sundance Scenic Lift Rides

Sundance Resort offers a unique outdoor experience that allows you to fully emmerse yourself in nature with total relaxation. "Enjoy scenic lift rides that offer a panoramic view of the mountain as you glide to the top of Ray’s Summit. After enjoying the impressive views during the lift ride on your way to the summit, take the opportunity to explore the mountain landscape. Venture off on some of our designated hiking trails or just sit and enjoy the mountain’s tranquil beauty. The lift will be waiting to transport you to the base where you can enjoy lunch in the Foundry Grill or a light snack in the Sundance Deli. The scenic lift ride makes for a truly memorable experience and offers the perfect opportunity to allow the mountain to work its magic." ~Sundance website

On special nights of the year they offer a full moon ride where you can ride the lift under the stars, bathed in the light of the full moon... very romantic! It offers a whole new perspective on nature and nightime. The tranquility and atmosphere are magical.

http://www.sundanceresort.com/explore/sum_lift_rides.html

Cathedral of the Madeleine

This beautiful piece of architecture was erected in the early 1900's downtown Salt Lake. The outside of the cathedral is Romanesque style with tympanums, gargoyles and towering spires, and the interior is Gothic full of stained glass windows, rib-crossed vaulting and a long, echoing nave. The Madeleine's choir puts on a number of concerts throughout the year and sings every Sunday at Mass. Visitors can tour the cathedral and enjoy its quiet solitude and majestic beauty. Hint: See comment on this site for a self-guided tour to use while touring the Cathedral .


Investigating the rich symbolism of Christian Art and Architecture can really be a fun and educational part of experiencing the Cathedral. Bring your scriptures and see if you can identify biblical figures. Most prophets are portrayed by a token or symbol of their story. Ex. Peter holds keys, because Christ gave him the "Keys of the Kingdom". Paul holds a sword because he calls himself "the good soldier for Christ". For more information please see: http://wegast.home.att.net/symbols/

331 E. South Temple

Salt Lake City, UT 84111-1226

Phone: (801) 328-8941

http://www.saltlakecathedral.org/

Sundance Nature Center

The Sundace Nature Center offers a whole bunch of activities year-round. They range from free to about $20 per activity. Here are just a few things to do at the resort:

• Snowshoe Nature Tours • Private Naturalist-Guided Hikes • Ski Ecology Tours • Nature Writing Workshops • Night Owling • Wildflower Walks • Birding Tours • Star Gazing • Films and Lectures • Children’s Summer Nature Camps • Nature Art Activities • Visiting Naturalist Programs • Corporate Enrichment and Team Building Activities

To view the season's calendar visit http://www.sundanceresort.com/explore/nature_year_round.html

and click on the "this season's calendar" link

Hatch Family Chocolates

A few years ago my husband and I were visiting our friends, Steve Hatch and Kate Masterson, when they told us they wanted to open up a chocolate shop using Steve's grandmother's chocolate recipe's and Kate's experience as a pastry chef.

Fast forward several years and you have a delightful family-run chocolate shop making some of the best chocolates and other goodies that will ever delight your taste buds.

One of the things that makes Hatch Family Chocolates so unique is that they are one of the few remaining chocolate shops that still hand-dips their chocolates, thus keeping the chocolate in its pure state. Most candy makers use machines that require dilluted or changed chocolate in order for it to run smoothly through the equipment. Altering the chocolate this way can greatly affect the taste and quality.

Also, the Hatch family makes all their chocolates, creamy caramel and other goodies fresh in their shop, so it tastes much better than other stores that mass produce their treats.

Besides chocolates, Hatch's features an assortment of goodies, including ice cream, espresso, italian soda's, chocolate dipped fruit, caramel and chocolate dipped apples, and two of my personal favorites: rice krispy treats with marshmallow, caramel, and chocolate layered on top; and ice-cream sundaes covered in melted chocolate, homemade caramel sauce, and topped off with whipped cream, cherry and nuts. YUM!!!

You have to try their hot chocolate. It's been featured in several newspaper articles and magazines. Warning: it's not for the faint of heart. It's made with real chocolate and is incredibly rich and delicious.

Something else that's unique about this shop is that they are open late, making it a great place to end your evening. Store hours are Monday thru Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

For personable service, a friendly atmosphere and the most delicious chocolate you will ever taste, visit Hatch Family Chocolates. They're located in the Avenues at 390 4th Avenue, Salt Lake City, Utah.

To view some articles written about Hatch Family Chocolates click on the following links:

http://www.uvsc.edu/alumni/sequel/2007_winter/expanded.html

http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/1,1249,635201855,00.html

(top photo by Mike Terry, for the Deseret Morning News)

(other photo featured in the winter 2007 UVSC Sequel)

S & S Shortline Train Park

For some great family fun you have to check out S & S Shortline Railroad. Located in Farmington, Utah, this train park contains over 16,000 feet of rail and 90 engines and cars you can ride in.

The park started out as a hobby for Steve and Susan Flanders, when they built a single circular track in their back yard in 1995. Since then, the railroad had grown in size and popularity, as adults and youngsters alike come to the park to ride on the Flanders pint-sized trains.

If you collect model trains, the park also contains a museum housed in a full-sized replica of a 1920's Union Pacific freight train.

S & S Shortline Railroad is something children and adults can all enjoy. The park is closed from November to March. The rest of the year they're open only a few days of the months so check their website for hours and ticket prices.

I recommend going in December when the Flanders bring to life the popular Christmas story, The Polar Express. It starts off with a reading of the story followed by a train ride passing by lit up Christmas displays.

http://www.sssrr.ssshortlineleasing.com/index.html

S & S Shortline Train Park is located at 575 N.1525 W. in Farminton,

Utah.

(first image by Ravell Call for the Deseret News)

Sub Zero Ice Cream

WHO KNEW CHEMISTRY COULD BE SO MUCH FUN?!?

The owners of Sub Zero Ice Cream did when they opened up this unique ice cream shop, based on a science theme. Located in Orem on State Street, Sub Zero uses cryogenic technology to create ice cream concoctions that are both creamy and delicious.

The ice cream starts out in a liquid form. After choosing how dense you want your cream (low-fat or regular) and any combination of flavors and mix-ins you want added, they freeze your ice cream in just a matter of seconds using liquid nitrogen.

To view one of these ice cream creations, click on the link below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JE_DmLTf0RE

To satisfy your sweet tooth you have to check out this ice cream shop.

Sub Zero is located in Orem at 934 N State Street.

http://www.subzeroicecream.com/

Tavernacle

*Warning: This is a bar that serves alcohol (as well as virgin drinks). The setting is irreverent and rowdy, and this may not be the place for everyone. The night's entertainment varies and one night may be wholesome and another a little shady. When I went it was perfectly fine for a Mormon, but beware. Having said that...

The Tavernacle is famous for one thing: their dueling pianos. It's a riot and can only be described by the owners themselves:

"For those of you unfamiliar with this wild form of entertainment, here are some basic guidelines. The setup is simply two pianos facing each other, and two piano players either swapping songs back and forth - or playing together. Our show is "all-request". This means that the entertainment is driven by you... the audience. Tips are appreciated, and also become part of the show. Since we strive to provide only the finest entertainment, occasionally we may be requested to play music you do not care for. In these instances, a simple increase in tip will shut down a song you don't like. For example, a song requested for two dollars may be immediately stopped for three dollars. Get it? (By the way, if it was your song - you can start it back up again using the same increase in tip method.)

Also required for maximum entertainment potential - is singing. Our audience participation always includes singing along. We even love those monotone folks who can't carry a tune to sing. They always add an interesting harmony."

Along with live entertainment, the Tavernacle serves pizza, subs and appetizers

http://www.tavernacle.com/

Gorgoza Park

This sledding hill in Park City features a lift service that takes tubers to the top of the ultimate tubing hill. The saves you from weary legs and preserves all of your energy for extreme tubing. The hill features seven lanes, each ranging from beginner to expert level. Without tiring from hiking up the hill every five minutes, this fun winter activity can last for hours.
www.gorgozapark.com

Fifth Water Hot Springs

Located up Diamond Fork Canyon, Fifth Water Hot Springs are some of the most beautiful natural hot springs you will ever visit. Although it is somewhat of a hike to get to the hot springs (about 2.5 miles), it is well worth it once you get there. The series of turquoise-blue pools and cascading waterfall provide an atmosphere of peace and relaxation. Each pool varies in size and temperature, but each is absolutely picturesque. Because of the hike required to access the springs, they aren’t as populated as others, however be aware of skinny dippers. Although skinny dipping is illegal in Utah, you'll find an occasional group who will disregard this rule. Also, keep an eye on your stuff, I got my clothes stolen last time I went up. For more information, driving directions, etc. visit http://www.utahoutdooractivities.com/fifthwater.html

Clark Planetarium

Located in the Gateway Mall, the Clark Planetarium is an out of this world experience. Whether walking on Mars and on the Moon, or seeing yourself on TV giving the weather forecast, the Planetarium is fun for all ages. You can look through the collection of meteorites, learn about the life cycle of a star, and see an actual moon sample brought back by the astronauts of Apollo 15. After touring the Planetarium, rest your feet by attending one of the many shows in the IMAX or Dome theatre. Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon is an incredible laser show that proves to be a cosmic experience. The seats lean back, Pink Floyd music starts playing and it feels as if you are flying through outer space. Although you may leave feeling a little "trippy," you'll be talking about how incredible it was for days. For more information on show times and pricing visit http://www.clarkplanetarium.org/nowplaying.php

to watch a clip of a laser show visit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2E9ta23G27M

Cascade Springs

A beautiful and tranquil scene to lighten anyones mood. The Cascade Springs is a site that consists of raised boardwalks that illuminate the natural beauty of the Utah mountains. This is one of the few locations where water actually flows out of rock into a beautiful spring. Bring friends and cameras to enjoy one of the wonders of nature. The hiking is not challenging, nor is it very private. However it is an experience. It only costs about $3 a car. It is open from May-Nov Sunrise-sunset.

Located at: Cascade Springs Scenic Backway,
off Alpine Loop Scenic Backway

For more information call: 801-342-5100

BYU Museum of Art

BYU's MOA is one of the largest museums in the western United States and contains an extraordinary collection of pieces that range from Rembrandt to Monet and Maynard Dixon to Norman Rockwell. Most importantly, the museum is free. Come check out a gem on BYU campus. The museum has four levels and 10 galleries. There is also a library, an auditorium, classrooms, and a small theater and a gift shop. Exhibits rotate frequently, so check it out often.


For information on special exhibits visit http://moa.byu.edu/

The museum is located at:
492 E Campus Dr, Brigham Young University,
Provo, UT 84602 · 801-422-8287

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-9pm; Sat Noon-5pm