newfoundland – Two Wild Tides

Media Spotlight: Iceberg Alley Performance Tent

September 24, 2018 | Leave a Comment

Recently, Char & I had a mini weekend reunion as we were together to shoot the Iceberg Alley Performance Tent on September 15th. It was such an incredible opportunity to have the official media title and be able to capture the excitement of the night in our photographs. The Iceberg Alley Performance Tent is a music festival that spans 11 entertainment-filled days. The 25,000 square foot tent is in St. John’s on the banks of Quidi Vidi Lake. The performers from various genres took to the stage to perform such as Shawn Hook, Serena Ryder and Dallas Smith to name a few. However, we were ecstatic to have the opportunity to shoot Shanneyganock and Alan Doyle. What a dream!

Luckily for us, our media passes granted us access to both the main area in front of the stage as well as the Jag Sky Bar VIP section. This was a treat for sure. Private bar, private bathrooms, free munchies from Exile, and no line-ups in sight. You get a birds-eye view of the stage and the pulsing crowd. We love the whole venue, but we would absolutely recommend treating yourself to some VIP treatment at the festival. (For more details about the general admission perks, check out this article about last year’s festival.)

Our east coast roots run deep and there’s nothing we love more than stomping our feet to some tunes that remind us of home. Shanneyganock kept the crowd buzzing and I think just about everyone was getting their groove on. There’s nothing quite like being in a jam-packed room of east coasters who are just so happy to be hearing live music. Not only was the live music great but the crowd knew many of the songs and no one hesitated to sing along. It was a party.

Alan Doyle. Some performers just have this magical energy that they bring on stage with them and Doyle is absolutely one of them. Right from the get-go, he had that sparkle in his eyes. It was such a privilege to witness his work. I was especially impressed with how respectful and humble he was throughout his set. His gratitude for performing on the rock was thoroughly evident. Man, he knows how to put on a show. As a Great Big Sea fan he definitely did not disappoint; singing a mixture of old and new songs– the crowd was invested. Having the opportunity to not only see him perform but also see the friendly faces in the audience react to his performance was extremely humbling. (Also, I would like to point out that I was videoing in the media section and he smiled right at me!) We can’t talk about this performance without shouting out the vibrant beauty and talent that is Kendal Carson– she absolutely rocked it. The energy in that tent, on that night, was something truly special.

I’m so grateful that we had the opportunity to experience this event, to dance the night away and sing at the top of our lungs. If you’re ever in St. John’s in September– don’t miss this festival. Mark your calendars because it’s a hell of a good time. Cheers to that my friends!

xoxo,
Char & Linds

P.S. Linds wasn’t lying– there he is, seconds before he smiled right at her 😉

Getting Hyped Up for Iceberg Alley Music Festival

September 10, 2018 | Leave a Comment

Last September, I made the last minute decision to go see the Arkells live at the Iceberg Alley Performance Tent near Quidi Vidi Lake with some good friends. I had never seen the Arkells live and I’d never been to Iceberg Alley Music Festival before as 2017 was the festival’s first year. I was not only blown away by an amazing (and super underrated!) Canadian band, but I was awestruck by the venue. For those of you who don’t know, the Iceberg Alley Music Festival takes place in the first few weeks of September in what can only be described as a massive circus tent.

For those of you who don’t know, the Iceberg Alley Music Festival takes place in the first few weeks of September in what can only be described as a massive circus tent. There are beer counters and bars around every turn and indoor washrooms with heaps of porta-potties. Know what that means? There were hardly any lineups! It was deadly. There was a massive floor area with lots of room to dance around or squeeze up close to the stage, and in the back there are bleachers if sitting is more your thing.

The show started with The Darcy’s, who I’d never even heard of before but they were so cool. I loved the lead singer’s style. By the time the Arkells came on stage, I was so stoked. They started with Amazing Grace– how cool is that? We were all belting it out the hymn like a church choir. They went on to play some of my all-time favorite songs, songs I hardly knew at the time but since hearing the band live, I’ve been listening to on repeat, even a whole year later. Songs like ‘Knocking at the Door,’ ‘Leather Jacket,’ ‘And Then Some,’ and ‘My Heart’s Always Yours’. As I’m writing this, I’m listening to their brand new single, ‘Relentless’. I’m so glad I made the decision to give Iceberg Alley Music Festival a chance. Amazing band, amazing venue. So much energy, positive vibes all around.

This summer, I was lucky enough to be on board the inaugural Iceberg Alley Concert Cruise. And my luck hasn’t run out yet, because in just a few short days, I’ll be headed back to the Iceberg Alley Performance Tent again, this time as a VIP guest in the Jag Sky Bar to see Alan Doyle! And what’s even better? I’m going to get to enjoy it with my best friend, and the other ‘wild tide’, Linds.

This year’s lineup is even more jam-packed with top performers than it was last year. I would love to be able to see Coleman Hell, Serena Ryder, Billy Talent, and Dallas Smith, but unfortunately, my schedule as a work-term student doesn’t allow it. I’m not sore about it though because Alan Doyle was my top pick. So what are you waiting for? You’ve read about the one-of-a-kind venue, now go get your tickets! The festival starts on Wednesday!

Borrowed from @icebergalleyNL on Facebook.

Hope to see you in the tent!
char

Camping Like Never Before: Terra Nova National Park Oasis

September 6, 2018 | Leave a Comment

Have you ever been to Terra Nova National Park? It is one of three national parks in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and is located in central Newfoundland. Being from a small town that borders the park, I have really taken for granted its beauty and value. Terra Nova National Park has so much to offer from boat tours to boreal forest to swimming holes, and lately, it was declared a ‘dark sky reserve’– I wasn’t surprised because growing up, I had always said that Terra Nova has the most beautiful starry skies in the world. Now, it has something else extra special to attract visitors.

What looks like something from War of the Worlds or a Mars mission is actually the newest way to camp in Terra Nova National Park. Located in both the Malady Head and Newman Sound campgrounds, ‘Oasis’ units are only six meters squared and comfortably sleep two adults. They are novel and unique, with only six in all of Canada, Terra Nova National Park has 5 of them.

Inside, you’ll find a relatively large table with comfy cushions and a ladder leading up to a hammock in the pointed ceiling. The table converts into the bed, which comfortably sleeps two adults, and supposedly two children can sleep in the hammock.

One side of the Oasis has giant windows so guests can enjoy the view. We had a gorgeous view of the water and were surrounded by a thick forest. It felt cozy and private, as the windows face away from the rest of the campground. The campsites that Oasis ‘pods’ are situated on have a full-size barbeque, fire pit, picnic tables, and comfy Adirondack chairs. Regular campsites only have a firepit and picnic table, so Oasis sites are a little amped up.

The hammock is unbelievably cozy and the perfect place to lie down with a good book, enjoy the view, and soak in the magnificent starry night skies I mentioned earlier. I could have spent all day and all night up there!

Unfortunately, the weight limit is 150 lbs. I was able to be up there, but I couldn’t share that experience with anyone because I fall just under the weight limit. A 150 lb limit is not accessible to many adults who are of a healthy weight. The hammock is said to be the sleeping area for two children, which makes sense, but I think it should be able to hold more weight so more adults can enjoy this experience too– because if I’m being completely honest, the hammock was the best part of the Oasis by far.

So, the big question: is the Oasis worth it? Is it worth $130 plus the cost of taking a trip out to Terra Nova National Park?

Well, here are the pros first: the Oasis is truly a unique experience that you can’t really get anywhere else. It is cozy and the architecture is really cool. The stay makes a great story to tell your friends and family. It even makes an awesome Instagram photo op. Plus, if you’re heading to the Terra Nova area anyway, you’d probably have to pay the same price for an ordinary hotel or cabin (even though cabins and hotel rooms offer much more amenities).

On the other hand, if you’re a regular camper and already own a tent, you can stay in the same campgrounds for only $25.50. Most adults can’t use the hammock, you can’t eat inside the Oasis, and pets are not allowed. Some of the five Oasis units in Terra Nova National Park are heated by either propane or solar power, and some have electrical outlets. Ours had none of this and we had to pay the same price which seems unfair.

My opinion? It is worth the money for the experience. I had a great night and thoroughly enjoyed my stay. That being said, now that I’ve done it once, I kind of feel like ‘been there, done that’ and I wouldn’t spend the money to do it again.

All that said, I definitely encourage you to head out to Terra Nova National Park as the area is gorgeous and there are so many fun things to do there. What are your thoughts? Have you stayed in an Oasis? Will you? We want to see your photos and hear your opinion! Comment below or message us on social media, @twowildtides on Facebook or Instagram.

happy travels,
char

5 Things To Do in St. John’s Before Summer Ends

August 16, 2018 | Leave a Comment

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but there are only a few short weeks left of summer. I’m hoping to spend that time camping and traveling around the island, but for those who can’t get away from school or work, here are some things you can do right here in St. John’s to make the most of the season.

#1- Have a fire at Middle Cove Beach + s’mores!!

We love having little bonfires on the beach. It’s a way to escape the city without actually going that far. On your way to the beach, stop at 810 Torbay Road (just past Rona) and pick up your firewood from Firewood Factory NL. They are open until 5 and allow you to beat the gas station prices for firewood! Don’t forget to bring a beach blanket and a marshmallow roasting stick or a knife to make one, plus your s’mores ingredients!

#2- Yoga on the dock in Quidi Vidi

LB Yoga offers this class twice per week, Monday mornings and Tuesday nights. It is so relaxing and tranquil. I promise you it is the best way to start your week. Classes run until the end of September and are $15 for a drop-in or $48 for a 4-class pass.

#3- Drinks and snacks in The Courtyard

The back courtyard of the Murray Premises Hotel holds St. John’s’ closest thing to a beer garden. Cozy up on a summer night underneath the twinkly lights at one of the tables next to a fireplace and have a beer with your buddy. Sounds like a dream.

We also recommend $5 pints at Bier Market (after 9 pm), $20 bottomless mimosas at Boca (weekends for brunch), and the Yellowbelly, Sundance, and O’Rielly’s patios!

#4- Visit the St. John’s Community Market

The new St. John’s Community Market on Freshwater Road is the home of the St. John’s Farmer’s Market. The market is so much fun– grab delicious multi-ethnic food from Fatimah’s or Curry Delight, sweets and baked goods for all diets, fresh veggies, gifts for friends or yourself, and check out the buskers. All of this supports local businesses and the local economy. Market hours are Wednesday 2-8 and Saturday 9-4.

#5- Take a hike on the East Coast Trail

There are so many great paths to choose from! Here are the ones we’ve tried and love:

Share with us your fave paths! We can’t wait to tick more off the list. Make sure to bring a buddy!

Make the most of your last few weeks of summer! Let us know what you try and what your summer go-to activities are. We love hearing from our readers! Leave us a comment or reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram, @twowildtides.

xoxo,
char

All Aboard the Inaugural Iceberg Concert Cruise

July 24, 2018 | Leave a Comment

On Saturday, July 21st, the first ever Iceberg Concert Cruise set sail from St. John’s Harbour. I was lucky enough to be on it. The event gets its name from it’s three main sponsors, who all share a similar theme: Iceberg Alley Music Festival, Iceberg Quest boat tours, and Iceberg Vodka.

The coolest thing about this cruise? The artist was kept a total mystery. Nobody knew who they were coming to see. The suspense was thick in the air as I arrived at JAG Hotel for the opening reception (side note: I can’t say it enough– Jag is one of St. John’s’ coolest hotels hands-down. We had the pleasure of working with them a few months ago, check out that article here) and everybody was buzzing with excitement. The reception featured live music by Mick Davis, signature cocktails, and delicious food from Jag’s Exile restaurant.

After enjoying the delicious food and drinks, receiving our VIP boarding passes, and getting to know our fellow passengers (the cruise is win-to-get-in only so nobody knew each other!) we headed to the pier to board the Iceberg Quest boat. The captain gave us the safety speech and away we went. After a few more drinks and a couple loops around the harbour, we saw a small boat speeding towards us: it was the mystery artist. We were lucky we didn’t flip the boat because everyone ran over to see who was coming!

It was none other than Matt Mays and Adam Baldwin, the folk-rock singers with endless talent. They climbed aboard and started playing immediately. Their performance had the perfect backdrop– Signal Hill and the lower battery, which slowly turned into the St. John’s skyline, and then Fort Amherst as the boat made its way around the harbour. A couple of songs in, the captain announced that we’d be heading out through the Narrows. The sun was setting and Matt and Adam played “I’m on Fire” by Bruce Springsteen and “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones. It was surreal.

The boat pulled into Quidi Vidi next, which was cool because I’d never seen the little town from that angle before. On one of the cliffs was a group of people having a bonfire and trying for some fish. Yes, they were fishing off the side of a cliff, and no, I really don’t think you can get any more Newfie than that. Matt Mays was thrilled by this and dedicated a song to them– they got the message because they all got up and started dancing and cheering. What a cool moment. You really can’t plan this stuff!

There were a few more loops around the harbour, a wicked encore, and high-fives all around. We thanked Matt and Adam for the unforgettable show, disembarked, and were waved off with a deadly swag bag. We scored sunglasses, Iceberg vodka, Pepsi, and tickets to see Coleman Hell at the Iceberg Alley Performance Tent in September!! Now I get to take in two Iceberg Alley shows since the festival coordinators have kindly invited twowildtides to Alan Doyle on September 15. Can’t friggin’ wait!

We want to send the most heartfelt thank-yous to Steele Communications, Iceberg Alley Music Festival, Iceberg Quest, Jag Hotel, Iceberg Vodka, Matt Mays and Adam Baldwin, and all the folks who put in the hard work it takes to make an event like this a success. A huge thanks also goes to the other sponsors: Coors Light, Collingwood Spirits & Wines, Pepsi, Canadian AV Inc, Steers Insurance, Orange Store, K-Rock, and 99.1 Hits FM.

Who’s got their Iceberg Alley tickets?! What bands are you most excited for? Did you go last year? Leave us a comment, shoot us an email, or send a message on social media, @twowildtides! Can you spot me in the promotional recap video??