Never had I ever been in a helicopter. And I'd say for my maiden voyage, given a crystal clear day above the world's greatest city, the experience was pretty epic. We recently teamed up with Manhattan Helicopters to take an aerial tour of New York's iconic skyline. Their company was fantastic, and our guide was awesome. No joke, he was pumping Jack Johnson while we swung around One World Trade. With nothing but blue skies, we witnessed amazing views of The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governors Island, Brooklyn, Lower Manhattan, Central Park, and beyond! Check out our shots from the ride and enjoy The Big Apple from up above! NOTE: no drones were used the making of this production, just an SLR and some rocky turbulence.
Easy Livin' in The Crescent City
January has been a very long month, especially the past week... But Scrimshaw recently hopped a quick flight south for a weekend of easy living in Louisiana’s Crescent City, the extraordinary metropolis of New Orleans! A speedy 48 hours exploring Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, led to a single overnight in The Big Easy, and boy was it worth it. Upon arrival, we happily checked into one of the city’s best new accommodations, the Ace Hotel New Orleans; an extremely gracious staff bumped us to a massive room stacked with our own record player (accompanied by a lovely personal collection of vinyl), a wicked nice guitar (that to-be-honest… remained untouched), and all the accoutrements you’d need/want (i.e. the dopest fleece robes). After catching a killer view of the skyline from their rooftop pool and bar, Alto, we hit the town.
Blackened fish and Abita beer; I need nothing else in life. New Orleans’ food scene is out-of-this-world delectable and they’ll have you rolling down the streets in no time – with a drink in hand of course! The night’s most magical 45 minutes came towards the end, with an intimate musical performance by the Preservation Hall All Stars at the legendary Preservation Hall. Tucked off Bourbon Street, on St. Peter in the French Quarter, one of the most energetic and talented group of performers I’d seen in some time, played six or so jazz tunes for our small group, and made me realized why music is so important (P.S. you won’t see any shots below from this, as there’s no recording of any kind once inside; but please make sure to play the audio clip at the top of the page – a song performed that night!).
Day two, involved lots more food, including King Cake from the infamous Sucré, getting lost in the Garden District, plus an exceptional guided tour of the oldest extant cemetery in New Orleans, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 (which is still the site of several burials a year!). The cemetery’s past was extremely fascinating, as is its future; actor Nicholas Cage actually has a massive white pyramid-shaped grave lined up there for his final resting place (find photo below). A very brief trip to The Big Easy resulted in these photographs, but mainly solidified a new found love for such a diversely creative and historically important city in our country. Astounding music and tasty beignets, fused with to-go cocktails and loads of voodoo, are just a few reasons why we can’t wait to get back to New Orleans, LA.
Welcome to Maine || The Way Life Should Be
As it so happens every year, we quickly approach a change of the seasons. Another blissful summer will soon again fade into a refreshingly crisp autumn. Now, don’t get us wrong – we’re seriously stoked to wash down countless apple cider donuts with some strong hot toddies (sorry, no PSLs here) – but we’re also keen on never letting go of those sun-kissed days. And there’s no better place to chase the tail ends of summer than a quick trip to New England’s Vacationland, the great state of Maine.
With a three day weekend packed alongside a tent, fins, vintage racquets, and a full crate of Allagash, the journey North began. What was already expected to be a great few days of weather, turned out to be so much more. On the rare (and utmost momentous) occasions when brilliant minds gather to play fiercely competitive tennis, you mix in copious amounts of keg beer & rosé (plus a dash of sea water), and you’re left with one hell of a weekend. With a belly full of laughter (and lobster), I present to you some of our favorite shots taken from a recent microadventure to Orrs Island, ME. Hosted by dear friends, and surrounded by new ones, this trip was one for the ages. Enjoy the scenery – and if you haven’t already… get your ass to Maine ASAP.
P.S. Shh… don’t let everyone know, but Maine in the fall is just as amazing as summer. Plan a getaway soon (even if just for the weekend), and experience the way life should be.
Cheesin' in Greece: Where the Feta is Betta
Sunset view from our AirBnB right at the entrance to the town centre of Mykonos.
A strategic crossroads for three continents nestled between the Ionian & Aegean Seas, considered by most as the cradle of Western civilization, Scrimshaw Collective recently bopped around the stunningly beautiful and admirably perseverant country of Greece. We didn’t stick around too long on the mainland (sorry Athens, catch ya next time!), but quickly headed out to sea. With a tight schedule, and lots of sun to soak up, we ventured to the Cyclades to explore the islands of Tinos and Mykonos. With a few AirBnbs tied down, and some serious SPF, we took the waves and had a whirlwind of a trip.
A relaxing, slower paced stay on Tinos (full of plenty of wine and octopus), geared us up for a wild weekend in Mykonos (heavier on the ouzo and prawns). But we didn’t forget about the cultural significance of this part of the world, and made a day trip to the archaeological island of Delos. The islands and their people were all magical in their own way, and really were places to see. If blue and white weren’t already a staple, Greece sure took that cake – and made it even sweeter. Check out our photos from the adventure below, hope you enjoy – YAMAS!
The island of Tinos.
Dinner is served!!!
Leaving the island of Tinos, headed off to Mykonos.
The island of Mykonos.
Standing on the tallest point of the archaeological island of Delos.
London In Colour: Street Art of Shoreditch & Brick Lane
Amidst the overcast skies of June, life was blooming with colour against a mix of restored warehouses & shops in London's buzzing neighbourhood, Shoreditch. We loved meandering the streets of Shoreditch, especially down Redchurch and our favourite, Brick Lane, to scope out the vibrant collection of murals and street art - plus some serious people watching!
Scroll down to check out our top pics from our afternoon exploring the East End of London Town. And remember, on your way out, exit through the gift shop. ENJOY!
Barbados: A Proper Bajan Broasting
Maycocks Bay, St. Lucy, Barbados
You almost felt guilty stepping onto the hot tarmac at Grantley Adams International Airport, knowing that you’ve left behind two feet of snow blanketing the eastern United States. But after a few fresh breathes of light breezy air, you quickly forgot what you’ve escaped and started looking forward for what’s to come. Touching down on the beautiful island country of Barbados was just what the January blues needed – and considering the round trip non-stop flight from JFK was under $200… you couldn’t afford NOT to go! With packs on our backs, and shades on, we were ready to explore the tiny 166 sq. miles in search of surf, music, and sun!
View from the apartment looking out at Surfers Bay, just west of Silver Sands.
With a slight delay leaving New York City, we made it through immigration & customs in a timely fashion (remember you NEED your passport for this trip!), and raced out to collect our compact Suzuki rental car. Its easy to get an automatic, but note that they drive on the LEFT side of the road – so if that’s new to you, just take it slow… and be forewarned, if you’re not in the larger towns, there are barely any road signs so when in doubt – HONK it out! There are mini-buses (vans) zipping all across the island for incredibly cheap ($2 BBD = $1 USD) and their car horns are amusingly musical, make sure to listen for them! After a 15 minute drive to our apartment down near Silver Sands, we checked in with the owner, Stefano (he’s originally from Sardinia, and has been on Barbados for over 20 years now – check out his digs on TripAdvisor), rented some surfboards from him and headed straight to his suggested spot of Freights Bay – less than a five minute drive away. With just about an hour of light left, fun was had by all as surfers and sea turtles bobbed along with the waves. Once back at the flat, we strolled around the corner from our place to the Surfer’s Bay Beach Bar, where we closed off the busy travel day with an assortment of rum drinks plus fresh mahi-mahi & shrimp. Within the first eight hours, Barbados had already won our hearts.
Last catch of the day.
Up early the following morning for another surf, we then made our way into the town of Oistins for food. We refueled with breakfast at an awesome hole in the wall called Surfer’s Café, then stocked up on provisions across the street at a Super Centre market (i.e. juice, bread, fruit, rum, and Bajan BANKS beer). The second day was the perfect opportunity to discover the area down by our humble abode. Walking along the sea towards Freights Bay, we stopped at both the popular South Point surf spot as well as the South Point Lighthouse. After a quick lie on the front porch with rum in hand, we checked out some live music back at Surfer’s Bay Beach Bar, then took off for a night in St. Lawrence Gap (aka “The Gap”). We grabbed dinner (fresh fish AGAIN J) at one of the al fresco stands, then made our way to a happening joint called The Old Jamm Inn – which was 100% jammin’ with more live music! Taxis are all along the main strip, as are fantastic food stalls; definitely make sure to get a greasy cheeseburger and a fresh coconut (different vendors… but it would be nice if they joined forces!).
Ruins of a small pink building on the beach at Bathsheba, Barbados.
Day three was our most adventuresome day, as we drove all around the island! First we headed northeast to the iconic beaches of Bathsheba, where’s there’s a popular surf spot called Soup Bowl. We perched up and watched the few guys out there tearing it up. Along the beach there are some amazing rock formations, which includes a tiny abandoned pink shack built up on a ledge. There were a few people about, but overall a much less populated area than the south. A rather hilly drive back around the coast, we continued north along the Atlantic towards one of the island’s highest central points, Farley Hill National Park. A dilapidated mansion stands shaded beneath a grove of mahogany trees, with a lookout that beats no other – highly recommend visiting this little park ($6 BBD to enter the park with a car). From Farley Hill we drove northwest to a secret surf spot we were recommended called Maycocks Bay. Hiking down a steep trail with boards and bags, we eventually opened up to some beautiful waves, a protected beach and absolutely NO PEOPLE! Despite there being a cement factory just south along the beach, this was an ideal oasis for both surf and sun.
Looking east from the top of Farley Hill National Park, Barbados.
Scorched and sandy we started the drive back to Silver Sands, opting to route down the western coast, driving through Speightstown, Holetown, and Bridgetown. A posher vibe on the protected Caribbean side of the island, included high-end shopping, more tourists and resorts. After surviving the capital’s rush hour traffic, one more quick surf was squeezed in before the sun went down. Then all of a sudden, it was FRIDAY NIGHT; and there’s only one place to be on a Friday night in Barbados… the Oistins FISH FRY. A huge market sandwiched between the Main Road and the beach draws thousands of people to indulge in fresh catch, good (cheap) beer and LOADS of dancing! An absolute must do if you’re in town on a Friday – and if you’re keen for some rowdy karaoke, find Hercules Bar across the Main Road from the fry.
Wrapping up a solid surfing safari day at Freights Bay, Barbados.
Before we knew it, it was already the last day - Saturday. After a morning surf down at Freights Bay, we feasted on a royal breakfast at home, then headed to one of the island’s oldest rum distilleries, the Foursquare Rum Distillery and Heritage Park. Unfortunately closed for the day, we found someone on the grounds that said we were welcome to roam the property and guide ourselves around! Unfortunately there weren’t any tastings or even rum to purchase on site, but we explored the facility and gained some knowledge along the way (from the factory’s info placards!). As the afternoon quickly approached we tried the island’s fast food chain, Chefette, devoured some rotis and mauby, and b-lined it back for a final sunset sesh at Freights. We cheered rum on the bluff overlooking the bay after the sun went down with some friends, and closed out our final evening back at our local watering hole, Surfer’s Bay Bar!
Barbados boasts incredible weather, great surf, but most importantly kind and vibrant people. It’s as if the scenery is a painted landscape, preserving a natural art, and is something we hope you’ve enjoyed in our photos. But there’s no better way to see for yourself, so get online, scour for some cheap flights, and maybe we’ll catch you down there this summer for the island’s Crop Over Festival!
Halloween At Sea: 24 Spooky Hours on Block Island
Block Island North Lighthouse has protected the northern tip of the island since 1867.
The town of New Shoreham, Rhode Island, lies 13 miles out at sea, south of Narragansett (RI) and northeast of Montauk (NY). The least-populous municipality in the state boasts a thriving community like no other with nearly 40 percent of the land preserved for conservation. We skipped the Halloween Parade and mischief of New York City this year, to get spooky elsewhere with a one-night escape to the Bermuda of the North, Block Island.
Block Island is just as ideal a New England oasis for seasonal visitors, as it is for a year round community of roughly 1,000 residents. With a diverse history rooted deeply in fishing, farming, sailing and tourism, Block represents a progressive 21st century island that will perpetually celebrate its past.
We’ve visited Block since we were kids, but hadn’t been in a few years, so we figured why not mix-up the routine Halloween debauchery by exploring a quiet island town on the spookiest of weekends! We took ourselves and our car on the traditional ferry out of Pt. Judith (RI). During the summer months, you can take an Amtrak or a Metro-North/Shoreline East combo directly to a high-speed (express) ferry which leaves from right behind the train station in New London, CT (note that this is walk-on only, so if bringing a car you must venture to Pt. Judith; alternatively there is a less frequent high-speed ferry that departs from Montauk).
Aboard the traditional ferry having left Point Judith (Galilee), RI for Block Island, RI.
Rather last minute we booked a suite at The Darius Inn, conveniently located just a two minute walk up the road from the Old Harbor on Dodge Street (directly next door to the Island Free Library). Two sister opened the inn in 2013 which includes all necessary amenities plus a fantastic bohemian charm. The rooms were decorated with global art pieces, funky patterned fabrics on all the pillows, sheets and curtains, plus each night’s stay included an evening happy hour and a full hearty breakfast every morning. The owners even left us a treat on our doorstep; a copy of the book Ghosts of Block Island, which perfectly set the mood for the night ahead. We ended their season (along with a few other tenants) by being the last night’s occupants before closing for the winter. Despite it being their last night, their gracious hospitality will keep us coming back for years to come.
Once checked in, we were off for a day of blue skies, warm weather, and a Spotify playlist full of appropriately queued sea shanties. With a picnic fresh from the island’s main grocery, we took off for the North Light. We set up shop on the far side of the North Light, taking in the incredibly sunny weather by skipping stones and wading in the waves. After that we went for a leisurely hike through the Clay Head Preserve on the northeast side of the island. On a trail running along the ocean cliffs, we spotted a shipwrecked motorboat, and a pod of four seals sunbathing on a rock down below! After nearly getting lost in “The Maze” (another name for the preserve), we headed south to catch sunset out in front of the old Coast Guard Station at the mouth of the Great Salt Pond. Over a celebratory toast, we read a story from our new book about Norman the cook, whose spirit still haunts the Coast Guard Station property to this day!
Hiking through Clay Head Preserve (aka "The Maze") along on the northeastern cliffs of the island.
After an awesome happy hour at the inn, plus a few quick lobster rolls and chowder at the Old Island Pub, we slipped into our Wes Anderson themed outfits and headed to Block’s highlight event for the evening: Yellow Kitten Tavern’s Halloween Costume Party! With over a hundred people dressed to the nines (including Pizza Rat) plus an unstoppable DJ (reminiscent to that of The Pequot House… R.I.P.), the wickedly themed bash quickly became a Halloween tradition we’d love to revisit.
With sand in our hair and full from a delectable breakfast, we kicked off the morning with a visit down to the Southeast Light then a pop over to the Mohegan Bluffs. The southern end of the island is truly exposed to the sea, and is at mercy to the elements; enough so that they had to physically move the lighthouse back 300 feet from the cliffs in the early 1990s! Falling into the wind off the bluffs was the icing on our Halloweekend cake. After a quick drive out to Rodman’s Hollow, we made it back to Old Harbor just in time for the ferry, homeward bound. So if you’re ever in the mood to get out of the city and get a little more “off-the-grid” for All Hallows’ Eve, we’d highly recommend checking-in for a full-fledged funky fest on the amazing Island of Block.
Walking west past the Coast Guard Station, with the mouth of the Great Salt Pond to the right.
