The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing.
I didn’t believe it at first when I came across this incredibly strange piece of history. How could someone possibly lose their life to uncontrollable dancing? To this day, the true cause of choreomania is still unknown. However, there are theories of what led to this mass deadly dancing.
What is Choreomania?
In Greek, choreomania translates to dance mania (chroros – mania). Choreomania is also known as The Dancing Plague, St. John’s Dance, and St. Vitus’s Dance. These names refer to various isolated outbreaks across Europe spanning the 7th – 17th centuries, where large groups of people danced aggressively for long periods of time – leading to extreme exhaustion, injuries, and death.
The Earliest Outbreaks
The earliest choreomania outbreak is thought to have occurred sometime in the 7th century.
One incident in 1278 involved over 200 people dancing on a bridge in Belgium until it collapsed. Many died, but those who survived made their way to a chapel nearby dedicated to St. Vitus until their health was restored.
The first major outbreak was recorded on June 24, 1374 in Aachen, Germany. This pivotal incident sparked a series of outbreaks all across Europe. Written accounts describe the dancers under a “trance.” Other notes comment on animalistic behaviors of people breaking their ribs by jumping in the streets, having sex in public, and collapsing or dying due to exhaustion.
Dancers would gather and dance for weeks or months at a time.
Amidst our people here is come, the madness of the dance. In every town there now are some, who fall upon a trance. It drives them ever night and day, they scarcely stop for breath. Till some have dropped along the way, and some are met by death.
The Straussburgh Chronicle of Kleinkawel 1625
The Dancing Plague of 1518
The outbreak of 1518 was one of the most detailed occurrences of choreomania in history.
In July of 1518, a woman by the name of Frau Troffea began dancing in the streets of Strasbourg. She is reported to have been dancing uncontrollably with a blank expression. Troffea danced for weeks on end, with crowds of people gradually joining her. Eventually, up to 400 people joined her at a time.
The city of Strasbourg actually ordered a stage and a band, in hopes to somehow reverse the dancing by playing slower music that comes to a gradual stop. Unfortunately, the efforts only made matters worse – in fact, the band even joined in with the dancing madness.
People would dance until they fell to the ground with their mouths foaming, only to resume dancing once they gained consciousness. Hundreds died, largely to heart attacks, strokes, and exhaustion.
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The Sickness
It is believed by some, that choreomania was oftentimes involuntary and even appeared more so like body convulsions rather than joyful dancing. Most accounts for the outbreaks also note that it seemed contagious. Once people witnessed the dancing, they wanted to join in.
Theories of the Dancing Plague
There are many theories and suspicions as to what the cause was of the dancing madness. Some theories suggest that it has religious ties, such as being a curse from St. Vitus. Other religious theories suggest religious expression, devil possession, or cult rituals.
One of the most popular theories for the cause of the dancing plague is ergot poisoning. Ergot is a type of mold that grows on rye and is extremely unsafe to consume. Side effects of ergot poisoning are hallucinations, vomiting, confusion, spasms, muscle pain, and convulsions.
Other popular theories include contaminated water, venomous spiders, or mass hysteria.
Treatments
There were few attempts to stop the madness, but some treatments included quarantining, praying, and playing slow music. None of the treatments showed any significant progress in stopping the plague.
The Aftermath
Choreomania had a massive economical impact on cities with large outbreaks. Crops were neglected, resulting in famine across communities. Diseases also spread rapidly due to the large gatherings of dancing.
Conclusion
The exact statistics are unclear as to how many people choreomania effected. However, it is estimated that tens of thousands were diagnosed, and hundreds lost their lives.
The dancing plague came to an end in the 17th century, and hasn’t been heard of since.
I’d love to know your thoughts on this strange piece of history!
Have you heard of The Dancing Plague?
What theory do you believe most that led to this madness?
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
We’ve all seen the news articles, “Buy a house in Italy for 1 euro!” Sometimes it can be difficult when you see those news articles to find actual information about buying a 1 euro home in Italy. Alas, I am here to help. Firstly, let’s clear some things up here. That…
Just the other day, I was clearing out old photos from my laptop. Through this process, I discovered I had an entire folder labeled “WES ANDERSON.” What’s this? It turns out, I had compiled dozens of photos over the years of places that looked like they belong in a…
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
With your favorite summer holiday just around the corner, a 4th of July Charcuterie Board is perfect to bring to a holiday potluck, barbecue, or picnic.
There is nothing that reminds me more of summer, than the combination of delicious barbecue and chalky firework smoke filling the air!
When I was younger, we always had a neighborhood block party on the 4th. It was something we looked forward to every year. Food, friends, and beer were always plentiful – what more could you ask for?
This 4th of July themed charcuterie board is the perfect festive blend of sweet and salty. My board is small to medium-sized, so feel free to adjust the portions to serve your guests accordingly.
Everything you need for your 4th of July Charcuterie board.
Charcuterie boards are great because they look like you’ve spent a lot of time on something when you’ve really just thrown it together. They are literally impossible to screw up!
Don’t have a charcuterie board? No worries. You can purchase the one in these photos here for around $20. If you don’t want to buy one, then any sort of flat platter will work.
If you are planning a picnic for your fourth of July celebrations, picnic sets are so fun and convenient! Here are a couple similar to mine in the photos below – 2 person picnic basket or 4 people picnic basket.
Putting together your charcuterie board – The Ingredients
Crackers
Any type of crackers will do! Wheat thins, Ritz, or an assortment.
Cream Cheese Shortcakes
These are my favorite part of the board! You will need dessert shells, 6oz of softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup of salted butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
Mix everything but the shells together in a large bowl. Fill the shells with a generous spoon full of frosting. Top with blueberries and raspberries.
The frosting is roughly enough for 15 shortcakes. Cut the recipe in half for less or double it for more.
Alternatively, if you are not a fan of a cream cheese mixture, I think whip cream would be tasty too!
These printable American flags are perfect to decorate the shortcakes. Just print them out and tape them to toothpicks (these are not the flags pictured in the photo. I think the ones linked look better than mine!) Or you can purchase some already made here .
Cheese, nuts, & meat.
Pick whatever cheese you’d like for your tray. I love a tomato garlic cheddar, or Parmesan
A meat assortment of prosciutto and black pepper salami is what I typically use for my board.
A little bowl of mixed nuts is a great salty snack to add to the middle of your tray.
White Chocolate Pretzels
These white chocolate pretzels are the perfect patriotic sweet treat for your charcuterie board.
Fruit
You can put any kind of red and blue colored fruit on your 4th of July board. I chose strawberries and blueberries. Watermelon, raspberries, cherries, or grapes would work well too!
Wine time
The most important part of any holiday… just kidding! However, wine can certainly make any gathering a little more fun. I am obsessed with these mini bottles of prosecco, plus they are easy to dress up with some festive ribbon.
I hate going through posts and forming a grocery list, so I made one for you.
Printable Grocery List
And that’s all! It’s a pretty simple process to make a 4th of July charcuterie board perfect for your holiday gatherings.
Let me know in the comments if there is something else that you would add!
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
We’ve all seen the news articles, “Buy a house in Italy for 1 euro!” Sometimes it can be difficult when you see those news articles to find actual information about buying a 1 euro home in Italy. Alas, I am here to help. Firstly, let’s clear some things up here. That…
Just the other day, I was clearing out old photos from my laptop. Through this process, I discovered I had an entire folder labeled “WES ANDERSON.” What’s this? It turns out, I had compiled dozens of photos over the years of places that looked like they belong in a…
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
Sometimes it can be difficult when you see those news articles to find actual information about buying a 1 euro home in Italy.
Alas, I am here to help.
Firstly, let’s clear some things up here.
That 1 euro home is going to take A LOT of work before it’s your dream home.
The houses selling in Italy for this cheap are nearly in total ruins. The Italian government runs this incentive, frankly, so they don’t have to deal with the costs of renovating the houses. Also, it boosts tourism in towns that could really benefit from it.
Receive my guide on how to book budget flights and accommodations.
How to formally inquire about a 1 euro home
For whichever city you saw the 1 euro homes advertised (there are several), try googling that city’s government website.
Cinquefrondi is just one of the many Italian town’s advertising this incentive, and you can find their government website here.
Depending on what country you’re from, the official government website for that small Italian town may require some digging. Try to search through the first three pages of Google.
Different towns will have their own ways of communication. For example, Cinquefrondi has a special email for inquiries. They have many requests coming through, so just be patient and they will get back to you after you’ve reached out to them.
These requirements are specifically for purchasing a home in the town of CINQUEFRONDI. Again, different towns may have different requirements, so it is important you find their government site!
You do not need to be Italian.
You must declare that you have not committed mafia crimes.
You have to fill out a short application.
In addition to the 1 euro payment, you will have to pay legal document fees.
Restructuring and renovations must begin within 3 months of purchase, and be finished in 3 years.
You must purchase an insurance policy of about 100 euros (the maximum coverage is 20,000 euros).
As I previously stated, most of these 1 euro homes are currently not habitable and need to be completely restructured and renovated. On the Cinquefrondi’s government website, they have a section featuring homes for sale. Here are scans of a couple of houses from their site.
What to consider
I myself, have definitely considered buying one of these 1 euro homes.
It is estimated that you could renovate these homes for a relatively low cost ranging €5,000 – €20,000.
However, it is important to consider how much time and work this will cost you.
Will you have to travel back and forth to oversee construction? Will you have to pay for accommodation while you are reconstructing your home?
In the end, it is obviously a lot more than €1 that you are giving up.
This CNN Travel article followed a couple who actually bought a 1 euro home and completed renovations. Read about their experience here.
If you have some money saved up, and owning a home in Italy has been a dream of yours – then I say go for it! Putting your home up on Airbnb while it’s not being used is a great way to earn back some of the money that you’ve put into it.
Would you buy a house in Italy for 1 euro?
I’d love to know your thoughts.. would you or would you not buy?
Many thanks to Don Giuseppe Sgambetterra (Instagram @p.happy92) for allowing me to use his photos of beautiful Cinquefrondi!
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
We’ve all seen the news articles, “Buy a house in Italy for 1 euro!” Sometimes it can be difficult when you see those news articles to find actual information about buying a 1 euro home in Italy. Alas, I am here to help. Firstly, let’s clear some things up here. That…
Just the other day, I was clearing out old photos from my laptop. Through this process, I discovered I had an entire folder labeled “WES ANDERSON.” What’s this? It turns out, I had compiled dozens of photos over the years of places that looked like they belong in a…
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
Just the other day, I was clearing out old photos from my laptop.
Through this process, I discovered I had an entire folder labeled “WES ANDERSON.” What’s this? It turns out, I had compiled dozens of photos over the years of places that looked like they belong in a Wes Anderson film.
I once had (and still do) great hopes of adventuring to some of these oh-so-symmetrical places.
If I’m being honest, I am a total Wes Anderson fanatic.
Once upon a time, I thought the Grand Budapest Hotel was an actual hotel until I literally went all the way to Budapest only to be horrifically disappointed.
I know, I know. I can feel your cringe staring at me through the screen.
Letting all those years of collecting photos that I forgot about, must not go to waste. So, grab your pastel-colored turtle neck and a bottle of bubbly, because we are about to embark on a rabbit hole of nonsense.
Naturally, as somebody who has handmade their own Lobby Boy (woman) costume, finding a whole folder dedicated to places that look like they belong in a Wes Anderson film, isn’t all that surprising.
What keeps my faithful love fueling for sir Wes Anderson? Why I’m glad you asked.
Not only have I put in my fair share of hours watching his films, but I also follow these incredible Instagram accounts – @accidentallywesanderson and @wesandersonplanet.
If you love traveling and Wes Anderson, then these are the perfect Insta accounts for you.
Alright let’s get to it –
Here are 25 Real-life Places That Belong in a Wes Anderson Film
1. Edificio España | Madrid, Spain
The Edificio España opened in 1953 and is the 8th tallest skyscraper in Madrid. The historic building has 25 floors and incorporates a 20th-century Spanish architecture in the neo-baroque style.
The building is a hotel but has a mix of offices, shops, and apartments. Designed by architect Julian Otamendi, it was “the symbol of prosperity” during Francisco Franco Bahamonde’s ruling.
Address: Plaza de España 1, Madrid, Spain
photo by @poealan via @accidentallywesanderson
2. Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine | Kiev, Ukraine
The Vernadsky National Library of Ukraine is one of the largest libraries in the world. It serves as the main library and science information center for all of Ukraine. The building has 27 floors, and contains about 15 million items.
This quaint, family-owned Oyster Bar has been passed through the owner’s family for generations. The restaurant is famed for its delicious seafood, and even has an award-winning cookbook, “The Oyster Seekers”.
Address: 8 High St, Whitstable CT5 1BQ, United Kingdom
photo by @tonia.fest
4. Royal Oxford Hotel | Oxford, United Kingdom
Built in the 1930’s, the Royal Oxford Hotel screams Wes Anderson with it’s bright mustard yellow paint and symmetrical details.
Address: Park End St, Oxford OX1 1HR, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
5. Pfunds Molkerei | Dresden, Germany
“The World’s Most Beautiful Milk Shop.” In the 19th century, a farmer traveled from Reinholdshain with his wife and six cows to Dresden in order to supply the city with healthy milk. Through this journey, Pfund dairy was established and is still serving fresh milk to this day.
The interior of this humble beginnings milk shop is elaborately decorated with hand-painted Villeroy & Boch ceramic tiles, all accented in blue and gold.
Pfunds Molkerei is actually a real filming location that was used in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotelfor the interior of Mendl’s Confectionery.
Photos are not allowed in Pfunds, unless you are press and have been granted special permission.
Address: Bautzner Str. 79, 01099 Dresden, Germany
photo via interior.gamersta
6. Húsavík Lighthouse | Husavik, Iceland
The Húsavík Lighthouse was built in 1956. It is located on the Húsavík cape and stands at 49 meters, or 160 feet, above sea level.
With its bright yellow structure and desolate background, this lighthouse definitely belongs in a Wes Anderson film.
Address: Vitaslóð 1, 640, Húsavík, Iceland
photo by @Matthjsvmierlo via nylon
7. American Radiator Building | Manhattan, New York City
Built in1924 by architects Raymond Hood and Andre Foulihoux, the American Radiator Building is a 23-story landmark building located in Midtown, Manhattan.
The structure is actually based on the famous Tribune Tower in Chicago, but with a Gothic Art Deco twist. The color of the building is rumored to symbolize coal, and when it lights up at night it is said to look like a giant ball of glowing coal.
Although black isn’t technically a color Wes Anderson would embrace, I think the style of the building is undeniably something that would pop-up in one of his films.
Address: 40 West 40th Street Manhattan, New York City
photo via designyourtrust
8. Stylenanda Pink Hotel | Seoul, South Korea
Despite the misleading title, the Stylenanda Pink Hotel is actually a 6-level store, designed as a hotel.
The popular pink store is located in Seoul and is filled with wondrous rooms of makeup, clothing, accessories, and “Instagrammable” set-ups such as fake pools or an art-deco hotel lobby.
Address: 37-8 Myeongdong 8-gil, Chungmuro 2(i)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
9. Bloom & Bean | Liverpool, United Kingdom
Bloom and Bean is a quaint coffee shop in Liverpool decorated from the inside out with chic pale pink and forest green. This little shop looks like the ultimate Wes Anderson cafe experience!
Address: 6a Victoria St, Liverpool L2 6QE, United Kingdom
10. Miami Beach | Florida, USA
The iconic south beach lifeguard towers have become staple landmarks of Miami Beach.
The classic art deco towers started popping up in the 1990s shortly after hurricane Andrew hit. The towers were part of the effort to revive the area from the devastation. Many more have been constructed since the first few from Architect William Lane.
The towers symbolize the rebirth of the city.
Address: Various towers along the coastline of Miami Beach from the tip at South Pointe Park up to 87th Street.
photo by @mijookim_studio
11. TWA at JFK Airport | New York, USA
The Trans World Flight Center was constructed for Trans World Airlines by Finnish-American architect, Eero Saarinen.
The design of the terminal represents a flight wing and incorporates a concoction of architectural styles such as Neo-futuristic, Googie, and Fantastic. The terminal was originally built in 1962 but has since been renovated, and is now owned by the TWA Hotel.
The luxurious red carpet and narrow symmetry match Wes Anderson’s style perfectly.
Address: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, New York 11430; United States
photo by @mikeraz212
12. Muzeum Narodowe | Warsaw, Poland
Muzeum Narodowe, or the National Museum of Warsaw was constructed in 1862, and was unfornately damaged and raided by Nazis in WWII. It has since recovered and is one of the largest museums in Poland.
photo by @tantejohannes via @accidentallywesanderson
13. Moritzburg Castle | Saxony, Germany
Moritzburg Castle is a Baroque-style palace built in 1546 in the state of Saxony, near Dresden.
The castle features 4 round towers and was built on a symmetrical artificial island. Originally, the palace was a hunting lodge for Moritz of Saxony, the then Duke of Saxony.
Address: Schloßallee, 01468 Moritzburg, Germany
photo by marie_ohh_marie via @accidentallywesanderson
14. Eastern Columbia Building|Los Angeles, California
The Eastern Columbia Building was built in 1930 by Claud Beelman. It is known as the “benchmark of deco buildings in Los Angeles.” and the “Art Deco Jewel of the West.”
The building was originally built as the flagship building for Eastern-Columbia Department Store until they went out of business in 1957. It is now more commonly known as “Eastern Columbia Lofts.”
Johnny Depp owns 5 penthouses and it was also used for the filming of iCarly.
It’s prominent glossy turquoise, gold trim, and symmetrical features make this statement building perfect for a Wes Anderson film.
Address: 849 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
photo by @elizabethdaniels01 via @accidentallywesanderson
15. Hawa Mahal | Jaipur, India
The Hawa Mahal is a pink and red sandstone palace in Jaipur, India. The five-story pyramidal shaped palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh.
The famous honeycomb latticework was originally built to allow royal ladies to observe the daily life of the city from above without being seen since they could not go out in public without face coverings.
Address: Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002, India
photo by @wesleympeterson
16. The Ultimate Picture Palace | Oxford, United Kingdom
The Ultimate Picture Palace opened in 1911 and is the only surviving independent cinema in Oxford. The historic theater has gone through a series of owners and renovations over the years.
In 1996 it’s neoclassical facade was restored and it officially opened under the name as The Ultimate Picture Palace.
The theater is known historically in England for being “a rare surviving example of a simple early cinema.”
Address: Jeune Street, Oxford OX4 1BN
photo by @pursesandplanes
17. Sands Club | Treasure Cay Abaco Island | Bahamas
The Sands Club is a chic farm-to-table beachfront dining experience in Treasure Cay. It’s iconic long dock with pale pink accents make it a Wes Anderson wannabe classic.
photo by maryschlacter via @accidentallywesanderson
18. The Bathrooms in the British Library | London, United Kingdom
The British Library is the national library of the UK, and has the largest number of cataloged items in the world. These mustard colored walls and sink symmetry are the perfect stylized film aesthetic!
Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom
photo by @pursesandplanes
19. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is decorated throughout with Baroque and Art Nouveau style buildings. While these are the most obvious architectural styles, you can also see eclectic, gothic, and soviet influences throughout the city.
Several monuments in Budapest are famous for their unique architectural styles such as the Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and The Fisherman’s Bastion.
20. The National Gallery of Ireland | Dublin, Ireland
The National Gallery of Ireland was established in 1864 and opened when it had just twelve paintings. The gallery is nearly as beautiful as the artwork it contains, as it’s stunning symmetrical layout features pastel colors and minimalist design.
photo by @pursesandplanes
21. Grand Hotel Europa | Innsbruck, Austria
The King of Bavaria called it “the finest hotel in Innsbruck.” The Grand Hotel Europa was established in 1869, making it the most historic hotel in Innsbruck. Golden colored walls and ornate chandeliers decorate the interior of this glamorous hotel.
Address: Südtiroler Pl. 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
photo by @joemanderton via @wesandersonplanet
22. Havana, Cuba
Havana is a melting pot of several different architectural styles. When you walk around the city, you will see just how different all of the buildings are – but I that’s what makes Havana so unique!
Havana’s bright-colored buildings largely come from Spanish Colonial influences. Other known styles in Havana are Baroque, Neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco.
Gellért Hotel was one of the main inspirations behind the design of Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel.
When the hotel opened it’s doors in 1918, it’s iconic Art-nouveau architecture and panoramic mirror entrance quickly made it known as one of the most luxurious hotels in Hungary. The hotel’s ancient thermal baths have been used since the middle ages.
Address: Budapest, Kelenhegyi út 4, 1118 Hungary
24. Estádio do Pacaembu | São Paulo, Brazil
The Estádio do Pacaembu is an Art Deco stadium located in the Pacaembu neighborhood of São Paulo. The stadium was established in 1940 and named after the national celebrity Paulo Machado de Carvalho.
Address: Praça Charles Miller – Pacaembu, São Paulo – SP, 01234-010, Brazil
25. James Smith & Sons | London, United Kingdom
James Smith & Sons is a historic umbrella store founded in 1930. It’s classic Victorian style storefront makes it a classic dreamy Wes Anderson feel.
Anderson undoubtedly is inspired by European Baroque, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau architectural styles. Although he and his designers do incorporate a lot of these styles, I don’t think they restrict themselves. Neo Classicalism, Gothic, and other influences can also be seen in his work.
For something to belong in a Wes Anderson it can’t just be a cool looking building. It has to have a story. The beauty of architecture is that it oftentimes reflects the struggle and/or prosperity of a city. What if walls could talk? They would have so much to say.
And there you have it! 25 Real-life Places That Belong In a Wes Anderson Film.
The style that Wes Anderson carries into his films is unlike no other. It’s worldly, historic, and it’s all in the details.
I would love to know, have you been to any of these places? And are you as obsessed with Wes Anderson films as much as I am!?
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
We’ve all seen the news articles, “Buy a house in Italy for 1 euro!” Sometimes it can be difficult when you see those news articles to find actual information about buying a 1 euro home in Italy. Alas, I am here to help. Firstly, let’s clear some things up here. That…
Just the other day, I was clearing out old photos from my laptop. Through this process, I discovered I had an entire folder labeled “WES ANDERSON.” What’s this? It turns out, I had compiled dozens of photos over the years of places that looked like they belong in a…
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
Bear Creek Wine Company is tucked away in a secret corner of the Ozarks near Branson, Missouri. This Winery is a gem only true Missourians know about. If you’re looking for a luxurious and charming rustic escape for the evening, look no further than Bear Creek Winery!
Growing up in Springfield, I have a pretty good grasp on the best spots in the area. Living alongside “The Birthplace of Route 66” makes the 417 a total foodie’s heaven on earth, it’s hard to choose where to go with so many great options. I repeatedly heard how charming and delicious Bear Creek was, so I just had to check it out myself – and I was not disappointed!
Bear Creek Winery – Things to Know
Bear Creek is a Winery, Restaurant, Lodging, and Small Batch Brewery. You can pick and choose what suits you out of their extensive offerings, opting to stay a whole weekend or just simply enjoy some pizza at their restaurant. Be sure to check out their website here to get a detailed look at what they offer. Bear Creek is technically located in Walnut Shade, Missouri which is about 20 minutes from Branson or 20 minutes from Springfield.
The hours do vary, but here are their current hours listed for the season –
Sunday – Thursday 10-6pm *Sunday live music 2-5pm
Friday & Saturday 10-9pm *Live music 2-9pm
Food & Wine Selections
What I didn’t expect to find at Bear Creek, was the most delicious pizza I have ever tasted! I ordered the fresh and delicious “Bear Ass Pizza”. The prices are reasonable, especially with such large servings of food. Wine samples are offered, and you can enjoy a glass of your favorite for $6. My favorite wine is the Hillbilly Persuasion, which is a nice light crisp wine, close to a Chardonnay.
Bear Creek Food & Drink Menu
Dinner with a view
What better way to enjoy pizza and live music than sitting on a terrace outside? Bear Creek offers both indoor and outdoor seating to suit everyone’s dining preferences.
The Ozarks are stunning. If you are looking for a rustic getaway in the woods, Branson area has many spectacular lodging options such as Bear Creek, Big Cedar Lodge, or Chateau on the Lake.
Bear Creek is the perfectly charming and rustic getaway for your date night or friend’s outing. If you plan a trip to Southwest Missouri, consider spending an evening at Bear Creek Winery!
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
We’ve all seen the news articles, “Buy a house in Italy for 1 euro!” Sometimes it can be difficult when you see those news articles to find actual information about buying a 1 euro home in Italy. Alas, I am here to help. Firstly, let’s clear some things up here. That…
Just the other day, I was clearing out old photos from my laptop. Through this process, I discovered I had an entire folder labeled “WES ANDERSON.” What’s this? It turns out, I had compiled dozens of photos over the years of places that looked like they belong in a…
The Dancing Plague or “Choreomania” is argued to be either a social phenomenon or epidemic that occurred in Europe over the course of the 7th – 17th centuries. Hundreds lost their lives and/or had become seriously injured due to uncontrollable dancing. I didn’t…
A Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana was the perfect solution to a problem I commonly have when planning trips – never enough time! Originally, we wanted to stay in a Casa Particular in Viñales for a few days, but we just didn’t have the time in our limited seven days in Cuba. We were so happy we found this Airbnb experience that offered a day trip.
Where is Viñales?
Viñales is a town in Western Cuba home to lush fields, tobacco farms, rock climbing, and so much more. Just a couple hours away from bustling Havana, Viñales makes for a perfect day trip to enjoy life at a slower pace!
Why book an Airbnb Experience?
Without going into too much politics and details, Cuba is a communist government. This means the government dictates all citizen’s wages and food rations. Most Cubans must work government jobs that only pay a monthly average wage of $20-40 USD (a month!) To make ends meet, many Cubans work on the side in the tourism industry.
By booking an Airbnb or Airbnb Experience, your money will go to supporting the Cuban people directly, rather than to a hotel or tourist agency. This rule doesn’t just apply to Cuba, it’s just like shopping local. Your money goes to the people, rather than larger corporations. Also, it is way more of an authentic experience!
Now that I’ve briefed you on Cuban geography and politics, let’s get to it!
– Viñales Day Trip Tour from Havana –
Depart from Havana around 8am.
We were picked up in this sweet looking car from Havana around 8-9am. Honestly, nobody is on time in Cuba, so if you have a tour booked and they are running behind – that is totally normal! Patience is key, as keep in mind internet is not always readily available here.
The 2.5 hour drive to Viñales was really enjoyable. Make sure to bring your passport everywhere with you in Cuba, as cops will often flag you down when you are leaving city limits.
Horseback Riding through Mogotes Valley.
The first stop on our tour was riding beautiful horses through the lush valley. Anytime I think of engaging in tourism with animals, I always do some research into the specifics of how the animals are treated. We almost booked a different tour in Viñales before coming across this one, however, there were a number of reviews of how badly the horses were treated. Luckily on this tour, the horses seemed to be very well taken care of.
This photo doesn’t do the views of the valley justice, it was so stunning!
The Art of Cuban Cigars
This was unexpectedly one of my favorite parts of the tour! I don’t typically smoke anything, but I loved the taste of these cigars. Smoking a Cuban cigar in Cuba is definitely a bucketlist moment worth all the hype. You learn where the tobacco grows, how to roll it, and of course how to smoke it 🙂
Bring cash with you so you can buy cigars and other souveniers! If you personally don’t want them, they make excellent gifts to give away back home.
Say hello to the little farm animals
After the horseback riding and cigar demonstration, you just get to chill and hang out with the farmers while smoking cigars. It honestly feels like your visiting your family’s farm! It was so nice, and all the animals were so adorable.
Horseback, cigars, and now caves – oh my! This tour has quite the variety, which always kept things interesting. We enjoyed a nice boat ride through the beautiful caves of Viñales.
Enjoy a late lunch with a view.
On your way back to Havana, you will stop at a delicious restaurant with an incredible view. I ordered the Cuban Ropa Vieja, which is the National Dish of Cuba. It was incredibly delicious!
That concludes a full Day Trip Tour to Viñales.
While Havana is a great place to base yourself during your time in Cuba, I highly recommend venturing out beyond!
You can book this Viñales Day Trip Tour on Airbnb here.
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