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Porcupine Mountains

The Porcupine Mountains are a region of Upper Peninsula Michigan. It is truly a remote wilderness area. The Porkies have over 100 miles of hiking trails, 25 miles of shoreline, 4 inland lakes, rivers, waterfalls, and old growth hemlock forests. The Park features four seasons of recreation including hiking, camping, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, nordic skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and hunting.

Regions
The Porcupine Mountains are the remains of an ancient mountain range, formed over a billion years ago. They rise along the south shore of Lake Superior and remain relatively unspoiled. They are encompassed in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park which is affectionately known to the locals as "the Porkies". The Porkies is a 60,000 acre park, the largest in the state of Michigan. Though copper mining and logging occurred in the 1800s, 35,000 acres of the park have never been cut. Lake Superior borders the park on the northeast, and much of its inland border is made up by the Ottawa National Forest.

Other destinations
Ontonagon County Historical Society, 422 River Street. The museum is easy to spot as it is painted a bright pink and purple colors. The Museum offers lots of information on the area and is the starting point for Lighthouse Tours. Lighthouse Tours are available in summer M-F at 11AM, 2PM, and 4PM, and Sa at 11AM and 3PM. Tours are also available by appointment on Sundays and in the off season.

Copper Peak Adventure Ride near Ironwood, MI. This is southwest of the Porkies. Only the brave will climb to the top of the world's largest ski jump.

Porcupine Mountains Folk School, in the park near the Union Bay Campground, features workshops year round by local artists and artisians. Workshops have included timber framing, black ash basketry, and snowshoe making. The Folk School has a fun and relaxing atmosphere. It is run by the non-profit organization, Friends of the Porkies, whose mission is to enhance the park visitor's experience and in cooperation with Porcupine Mountains State Park. It offers things to do for those not able to get out do 20-mile day hikes and has been popular with local retirees.

Get in
A state park motor vehicle permit is required for entry. Fees are $6 (daily) or $24 (yearly) for residents, and $8 and $29 respectively for non-residents. These can be purchased at the Visitor Center or online at the Michigan DNR site. The Visitor Center is near the junction of South Boundary Road and Highway M-107. The center is open daily 10AM-6PM from mid-May to mid-October. A stop in there is a must before setting off to explore the park. You will find a ranger to answer questions, maps, multi-media exhibits, the daily calendar for park activities, including interpretive programs and other presentations. This is especially important for those intending to hike or backpack, as the rangers can give you information on trail conditions (in spring and early summer a few sections could get almost impassably wet or muddy) or areas that have been having nuisance bears. During the off season, the park headquarters are open M-F 8AM-5PM. It is located near the Visitor's Center.

Do
Mountains Music Festival''': this August festival gets rave reviews. The August weather, family friendly atmosphere, kids tent, BYOB policy, and truly diverse assembly of musicians make it a wonderful end of the summer event. See

Stay safe
A variety of lodging options are available within the park. These include a lodge (Kaug Wudjoo), 3 yurts ($60 per night), backcountry tent sites, 16 rustic cabins ($60 per night), 100 modern campsites at the Union Bay Campground (fee is $16/$25 depending on site), and 4 rustic campsites ($14 per night)

All reservations for campsites are made by calling a central reservations center or by going to the Michigan DNR reservations site. There you can check availability of cabins or sites and make reservations and pay online. Potential visitors should call the Park first if they have any queries. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable not only about the park, but about the surrounding area, which includes Silver City, White Pine, and Ontonagon. They are happy to answer visitor questions and concerns. The park number is +1-906 885-5275.

If you are not a camper, there are many other lodging options within 15 miles of the park. There are beach cottages, cabins, hotels, and motels to meet every taste and budget. A good source of information about the area surrounding The Porkies is the Ontonagon County Chamber of Commerce Website. This contains information about many of the places to stay in Silver City, which is a few miles east of the park, and the city of Ontonagon which is 15 miles east.

title: Porcupine Mountains


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Pordenone

Pordenone is a city in the northeastern Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy. This article also covers the town of Aviano.

Understand
Even with measurements of only 38 km², Pordenone seems larger than it really is and packs in over 50,000 residents. The primary interest in Pordenone by Americans is due to the city's close proximity to Aviano Air Base and Pordenone's more numerous bars, restaurants, hotels, shops, and attractions than in the town of Aviano.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Pordenone


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Poreč

Poreč (Italian: Parenzo) is on the Adriatic coast of Croatia in the region of Istria. It is an ancient Roman town that now is very popular with tourists. The beauty of Poreč attracts thousands of visitors every summer which can make the region feel very busy from June to September.

By boat
Venezia Lines sail from Venice to Poreč during the summer months (April–October). All departures from Venice are at 17:00 -  Arrival at Porec 19:30. Return from Porec to Venice at 08:00 and arrival in Venice 10:30.

By plane
Pula airport, some 60 km to the south is the closest passenger airport in Croatia. Other nearby airports are Rijeka airport in Krk and Trieste airport in Italy. One option to go from the airport to Poreč is rental car, it's a 45 minute drive from Pula airport.

By bus
There are regular long-distance buses from major Croatian cities, as well as cities in Italy.

By car
There are highways coming in from Rovinj, Pula, Umag and Rijeka (connecting to the rest of the country).

Get around
Poreč is very small, and it's almost impossible to get lost in the town. There is a bus station, and taxi rank nearby if you are staying at one of the many hotel and apartment complexes out of town. If you enter into the old town, which is to the right from the bus station, you will see a tourist office (logo has blue i). The tourist office will give you a map of the area.

See

Sleep

 * Apartments Lanterna Vagriba. A cluster of apartments about 15 km away from Poreč itself. It’s cheap (£54 a night for a four bed apartment), but you’ll need a taxi to get into town (or wait for the infrequent bus). The places themselves are clean, with dining/living room, shower, balcony and kitchen, there are a few restaurants and bars on site plus a cheesy disco. It’s mainly populated by mainly German tourists with frightening hair and orange tans.

Go next
Buses leave from the town's bus station every couple of hours to Pula and Rijeka. Buses leave about four times a day to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. You can buy your tickets at the bus stations on the day of departure.

title: Poreč


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Pori

Pori (Swedish Björneborg) is a coastal city of 83,000 people (2021) in Western Finland. It was founded in 1558, making it one of the oldest cities in Finland.

Pori is a traditional industrial city, with its former wealth and prominence showing in the Neo-Renaissance buildings in the centre and in several beautiful red-bricked industrial facilities alongside the Kokemäenjoki river. Pori is most famous for the excellent Yyteri beach and the annual international jazz festival in July.

Understand

The town of Pori was founded in 1558 by the Swedish king Gustav Vasa, as a strategic centre for trade and commerce. The town grew quickly in the following centuries, becoming an important regional centre for industry, culture, and education.

During the Finnish War of 1808-1809, Pori was occupied by Russian forces, and the town suffered significant damage during the conflict. However, in the following decades, Pori began to recover and rebuild, with new industries and businesses being established in the area.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Pori experienced a period of rapid growth and modernization, as new transportation links and infrastructure were built. The construction of the Tampere–Pori railway line in the 1890s brought improved transportation and communication to the city, while the electrification of the area in the 1920s paved the way for new industries and businesses to be established.

After the war, the city continued to grow and modernize, with the establishment of several new industries, including manufacturing, shipping, and tourism.

The city has suffered heavily during the economic downturns, especially in the early 1990s, earning a reputation as a somewhat gritty place. Things are looking brighter again as of 2020, with lots of students coming to the city and the city centre being revamped.

Although the city is officially unilingual, there is a Swedish school and some cultural activities in Swedish thanks to the resulting community.

Get in
Pori is on E8 along the west coast and at the end of highways 2 from Helsinki and 11 from Tampere.

By plane

If you fly in from abroad, you will most likely end up at Helsinki Airport. Instead of waiting for a connecting flight, it may be quicker to continue by bus or train (the transfers should be smooth). Also Turku and Tampere  have some international flights.

By bus
There are coach connections from Helsinki (3–4 hr), Turku, Tampere (2 hr), Rauma (1 hr), Oulu, Vaasa and Seinäjoki. Ordinary tickets from Helsinki cost about €30–40, but there may be cheaper offers on the net, especially if you buy well in advance. Coming via Tallinn, there may be a coach connection with arranged transfer from the port, mostly via Kamppi. Coming via Stockholm, there may be direct coaches from Turku harbour.

By train

All the passenger trains go via Tampere. A one-way adult ticket from Tampere costs around €15, from Helsinki around €40. Tampere–Pori takes 1½ hr, Helsinki–Pori 3½ hr.

By car
Drive highway 2 from Helsinki (3½–4 hr), highway 8 from Turku or from Vaasa (both about 2 hr), or road 11 from Tampere (about 1½ hr). When coming from Helsinki, the advantage of driving on roads 3 and 12 is that most of the route is on motorways. If you want to come by a route which has more rural feeling and interesting places to stop, drive along roads 3, 132, 54, 283, 284, 230 and 2.

Get around
Central Pori is small enough to be relatively easily explored on foot or, in the summer, on a bicycle. Most of the attractions are within a short walking distance from each other. The few destinations further away, such as the Sigrid Jusélius Mausoleum (about 3 km from the city centre) and the Yyteri sand beaches (about 15 km away) can be reached by bus. Information about local buses can be found at Porinlinjat (web page in Finnish only). You can use the Kyyti likel route planner to seek local bus routes between given locations and addresses.

The cheapest way to purchase tickets is through Kyyti Likel's mobile app. 10 tickets bought from the app cost €25 and each is valid for 2 hours. The app is available for Android and iOS.

The Pori bus station is at the central square. The bus connections are quite good.

By electric kick scooter
American Bird, Finnish Joe Scooter and Finnish Swup rent electric kick scooters for use in the centre and in suburbs.

By bike
The Pori city bike service is maintained by Rolan Oy. The Rolanbike app, which can be downloaded to your phone, gives you easy access to the locations of the stops on the map, as well as instructions on how to use the bikes.

By taxi
Taxis can be booked using 02 Taksi or Valopilkku smartphone app or calling Satakunnan aluetaksi.

 * Smartphone apps: Taksinappi, Uber
 * Smartphone apps: Taksinappi, Uber
 * Smartphone apps: Taksinappi, Uber
 * Smartphone apps: Taksinappi, Uber
 * Smartphone apps: Taksinappi, Uber

Sports

Buy

 * Outlet stores Tactic board games, Karjarannantie 2 km west of the city. Open M–F 08:00–16:00. Bakeries/cafes Mäkilän leipomo: Raja-Hiltantie 3 M-F 07:00–15:00; Jauhopojat Uusikoivistontie 73 open M–F –17:00, Sa 08:00–13:00.
 * Outlet stores Tactic board games, Karjarannantie 2 km west of the city. Open M–F 08:00–16:00. Bakeries/cafes Mäkilän leipomo: Raja-Hiltantie 3 M-F 07:00–15:00; Jauhopojat Uusikoivistontie 73 open M–F –17:00, Sa 08:00–13:00.
 * Outlet stores Tactic board games, Karjarannantie 2 km west of the city. Open M–F 08:00–16:00. Bakeries/cafes Mäkilän leipomo: Raja-Hiltantie 3 M-F 07:00–15:00; Jauhopojat Uusikoivistontie 73 open M–F –17:00, Sa 08:00–13:00.
 * Outlet stores Tactic board games, Karjarannantie 2 km west of the city. Open M–F 08:00–16:00. Bakeries/cafes Mäkilän leipomo: Raja-Hiltantie 3 M-F 07:00–15:00; Jauhopojat Uusikoivistontie 73 open M–F –17:00, Sa 08:00–13:00.
 * Outlet stores Tactic board games, Karjarannantie 2 km west of the city. Open M–F 08:00–16:00. Bakeries/cafes Mäkilän leipomo: Raja-Hiltantie 3 M-F 07:00–15:00; Jauhopojat Uusikoivistontie 73 open M–F –17:00, Sa 08:00–13:00.

Eat
There are Kebab and pizza restaurants at almost every corner of the town, often open until early in the morning. Normal restaurants can be found as well. There is a list of lunch offers for each day.

Drink
The city centre is full with bars and nightclubs. They are situated at or near the main street Yrjönkatu. The age limit is usually 18 years, but to some clubs it's 20. The latter limit is the restaurant's own, and you may be able to get the bouncer to let you in. Bartenders often ask younger customers to present their identification card. If you are in Pori at the summer, go to Eteläranta, there are many nice bars and much to do.

Stay safe
In emergencies, call 112.

Go next

 * Lavia — A rural village and former municipality, today part of Pori.
 * Ulvila — neighbouring medieval town.
 * Rauma — Finland's third oldest town, with a beautiful wooden old town, less than a hour away by car or bus.

title: Pori


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Poring Hot Spring

Poring is a small town 19 km east of Ranau and 39 km east of Mount Kinabalu in the state of Sabah in Malaysia. It is mainly visited for the Poring Hot Spring and Nature Reserve which houses both open-air and private cabin baths whose water contains sulphur that is known for its skin-curative properties. The natural hot spring is perfect to soothe tired and aching muscles after the long climb up Mount Kinabalu.

Get in
Public buses from Kinabalu Park are available but make only one trip daily. Alternatively take a taxi from Ranau at about RM30 for the ride (thus, travelling in a group this can be cheap). From Ranau there are very few, if any, public buses making the run to Poring.

For those coming by car, the Hot Springs are accessible via Ranau. The road is sealed with adequate sign posting. There is ample free parking inside the main entrance.

An entrance fee is charged to visit the Hot Spring Park (RM 15 for foreigners), with further charges for attractions within the site. It's quite a tourist trap.

Get around

 * Just walk

Do

Buy
A souvenir shop located in the Resort.

Eat & Drink
There is nowhere to eat except a small drink shop. Bring your own food or eat in a larger town or city.

Go next

 * Ranau

title: Poring Hot Spring


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Wellington/Porirua

Porirua is a city in the Wellington urban area in the southern North Island of New Zealand. Porirua's central business district (CBD) is about 20 km north of the Wellington City CBD. The Porirua CBD is near the southern end of the city, south-west of the less picturesque of the two almost landlocked arms of the Porirua Harbour. Suburbs of the city include Mana, Paremata, Pauatahanui, Plimmerton, Pukerua Bay and Titahi Bay. The city has a population of 56,000.

By car
From Wellington City or Petone, take State Highway 1 up the Ngauranga Gorge and glide down the motorway to the Porirua offramp. The alternative route (compulsory for cyclists) from Johnsonville follows Middleton Road then goes through Tawa.

From Wairarapa and most of the Hutt Valley, take State Highway 58 over the Haywards Hill to Pauatahanui; then go straight ahead at the roundabout to go to most parts of the city (or turn right for the most northerly suburbs). The quick way to the CBD is to follow the State highway along the south shore of the Pauatahanui Inlet to State Highway 1 at the occasionally congested Paremata Roundabout and turn left to drive south-west to the Porirua offramp; to take a little longer but get a close-up view of housing and lakes, turn left just past the roundabout to go through Whitby and eastern suburbs.

From Manawatu or Kapiti Coast, follow the signs that say "Porirua" and/or "Wellington" and you will be in Porirua's northern suburbs 10-15 minutes after leaving Paekakariki: first is Pukerua Bay, where Peter Jackson first made movies and where poets Alistair and Meg Campbell lived when they were alive; next is Plimmerton, about which Denis Glover wrote a poem.

By train
From Wellington railway station, catch a suburban unit on the Kapiti Line: about $6 to Porirua, $7.50 to Paremata or Plimmerton (but discounts from 9AM to 3PM). Units leave about every half hour. There are express units at peak times – before boarding, check that the unit will be stopping at the station you want. All stop at Porirua, but some go no further, and some go on but do not stop again until Plimmerton.

From the Waikanae, Paraparaumu and Paekakariki stations to the north, service is not quite as frequent.

At Porirua the main shopping centre is just across the stream from the main railway station, and buses depart for numerous suburbs. Other stations are Kenepuru in the south (within walking distance of the Kenepuru Hospital and parts of Linden), then north from the city centre in order Paremata (where buses leave for Whitby), Mana, Plimmerton, and Pukerua Bay.

Suburban trains carry bicycles for an extra adult fare. Bicycles are stored in the low floor area in the south car of each pair of units — enter the train through the lime green doors (not the navy blue ones). You can't carry your bicycle on during peak times. Wheelchair travel is OK, with train crew happy to get the ramp in place and help you in and out (also at the lime green doors).

By bus
Interprovincial buses generally stop at Plimmerton, Paremata, and central Porirua. Regular services link Porirua with Wellington's northern suburbs from Johnsonville (a suburban train terminus) to Tawa/Linden. There are no direct local buses to Wellington, however service N6 runs to Porirua and Plimmerton from central Wellington on Friday and Saturday nights at 1AM, 2AM and 3AM. The one-way fare is $10

Get around
Mana Transport operate numerous services which mostly operate out of the rail station's forecourt to Porirua's suburbs as well as towards surrounding towns. Fares are based on distance — a typical city-suburb journey will cost about $3. Wellington's Snapper Card is accepted.

Do
Porirua has plenty to keep you busy. Enjoy the traditional activities of golfing or bowling. Go go-karting or horse riding. Play at the beach, the city surrounds Porirua Harbour.

Learn
Fast-growing tertiary institution, Whitireia Polytechnic, has headquarters just north of central business district and several campuses in other cities.

Buy
A major attraction of central Porirua is its shops and mall, with the 12-storey Wrightson Building (linking with New Zealand's earliest pastoral service companies) overlooking most. Saturday morning early birds may pick up fresh cheap produce at the central city open-air market.

There are 3 major supermarkets. New World, in North City Mall opposite the train station, has the highest quality products but is a little pricey. Cheaper Countdown and Pak'n'Save supermarkets are 5 minutes walk to the north.

The only 24-hour stores for late night snacks, pies, and cigarettes etc are the small convenience stores attached to gas stations around the city. They do not sell alcohol, but nearby liquor stores are also open late.

Eat
The usual bakeries, fast-food restaurants (Porirua was home to the first McDonald's restaurant in New Zealand, which opened in June 1976), dairies (convenience stores), fish & chip shops and Chinese takeaways can be found around the city. The North City Mall (opposite Porirua train station) has a large foodcourt with the usual Asian and fast food.

Drink
Nightlife and bars in Porirua are almost non-existent — most Poriruaites will head to downtown Wellington on Friday and Saturday nights — if you stay out late enough it's possible to return to Porirua at around 5AM when the first trains start running in the morning, alternatively a night-bus (N6) runs hourly between midnight and 4AM from Courtney Place to Porirua (continuing to Plimmerton) - one way $10. There are a handful of small bars (known as 'Taverns') close to the North City shopping mall; however, they lack atmosphere, can become very rowdy and should be avoided.

Sleep
You cannot taste all the city's delights in one day, so a motel or hostel may appeal, or one of several bed-and-breakfast establishments.
 * Free camping is available in several locations.

Stay safe
Porirua has a reputation amongst many Wellingtonians as being unsafe because the eastern suburbs are one of the Wellington region's lower socio-economic zones. Though that may be exaggerated by locals, it does have a higher crime rate than the rest of the Wellington region.

Apply usual safety rules when you are not in controlled areas: no flashing valuables or wearing expensive clothing. A tourist's biggest risk is having personal belongings stolen, by use of some form of violence.

Go next

 * Hutt Valley
 * Kapiti Coast, north up State Highway 1, or via the Paekakariki Hill road from Pauatahanui, has several good beaches. Paekakariki Hill offers an excellent view and a hang-gliding ridge.
 * Wellington City

title: Wellington/Porirua


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Porlamar

Porlamar is a city in Venezuela's Margarita Island.

Car rental
Car rentals are available in Porlamar as well as in other parts of the island including at the airport and Playa El Yaque. Ensure that you thoroughly check the credentials of any rental agencies and ensure that they are licensed, have readily accessible office and an office contact number. Also ensure that you fully check the vehicle for any pre-existing damage including all lower body panels, the roof, and all window glass, before you sign the contract with any rental provider.

Buy
Boulevard Guevara and Boulevard Gomez.

Learn
Learn Spanish, or pick up the first words necessary to get around while on the island.

Splurge

 * La Samanna, US$220-260 for a single room

title: Porlamar


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Pornic

Pornic is a city in Pays de la Loire.

Pornic is a small seaside town. It is a popular tourist destination for the French with lots of restaurants and even a sightseeing train.

Get in
Pornic is connected to Nantes by regular train services. The trains are not very frequent and services are concentrated in the early morning and early evening for commuters during the week.

See
Pornic is a pleasant place to wander around. From the city centre you and follow a path which will take you to the swimming beach. The town is quite historic and the streets above the harbour are very pleasant to wander around.

Eat
Pornic is famous for its ice creams. There are many restaurants and the ones close to the harbour and generally more expensive than those a few streets back.

Sleep
It is possible to rent holiday apartments through the local tourist office (which is next to the train station).

title: Pornic


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Poros

Poros (Greek: Πόρος) is a green island situated in the Saronic Gulf, 59 km (32 nautical miles) from the Piraeus harbour of Athens. It has an area of 33 km², a shoreline of 42 km, and a population of about 3,650.

In ancient times it was considered the island of Poseidon, God of the Sea. This is evident from various literary references and from the traces of the temple of Poseidon, which are to be found in the middle of the island. The word “Poros” in ancient Greek means a small sea passage. Nothing could describe better the island of Poros, since the closest distance between the island and Galatas on the coast of the Peloponnese is 200 m.

The island is divided in two. Kalavria is the bigger part and Sfairia, which includes the town of Poros, is the smaller part.

This quiet yet cosmopolitan island features lush pine trees, crystal clear beaches, a lively waterfront adorned with shops, cosy cafes and restaurants, a picturesque capital with grand traditional mansions and cobbled streets that has been declared a protected settlement and a wide selection of entertainment venues.

As you approach the island of Poros by boat, the historic clock dominates the view on the hill’s highest peak, encircled by prickly pear and pine trees. Constructed in 1927, it is clearly visible from all angles and is considered the town's main attraction. From the clock, the view of the port and the coastal areas across the passage is magnificent.

Understand

Poros is a quiet island full of pine trees which reach the shores and sandy beaches. The large homes on the beach have a neoclassical style in contrast to the common duplex houses in Brinia, Milo, Pounta and Kasteli. The first dwellings were built in 1463 around the famous clock.

Many tavernas are sparsely located among the picturesque alleyways and the whitewashed houses of Poros which are surrounded by bougainvillea. Visitors can enjoy souvenir shops, cafeterias, tavernas and clubs playing Greek and English music all along the pier.

Orientation
In the centre of the town you can find the town hall, the archaeological museum, a public library along with a reception hall for exhibitions and other cultural events.

Leaving the centre, you will see the Pregymnasium in the northwest which happens to be Othona's first residence. Today, this area is used for sailors' training and ranking. After passing the field, you will come across a small canal separating Sferia from Kalavria.

After crossing the canal you will encounter Sinikismos, the first community of Asia Minor refugees. Towards the end of Sinikismos, if you follow the spiral road surrounded by enormous pine trees, you will end up at the church of Our Lady Agia Zoni. It's located between a steep cliff with lots of trees and running water where the Temple of Poseidon is also found.

On your way back to the canal's bridge, towards the left and west, you will see an area called Perlia. The road continues along the coast, passes through Villa Galini and Mikro Neorio and, eventually, reaches Megalo Neorio. Further down is the Love Cove, the Russian dockyard along with the islet called Daskalio.

On the right hand side of the canal's road you will pass through Kanali. Heading east leads you to Askeli. As you continue, the road branches out towards the monastery of Zoodohos Pygi. Going north you will reach the temple of Poseidon, Vagionia and passing by Agio Stathi and Profiti Elia it goes back through Sinikismo to the canal.

By boat
As of June 2017 there are two companies serving Poros from Piraeus. Hellenic Seaways operates catamarans four to five times a day. Single tickets cost €24.50. Saronic Ferries has bigger and slower ships that also take vehicles, and single tickets cost just €14.

Galatas on the mainland is just a few hundred metres from Poros, and frequent small ferries also carrying vehicles make the crossing in 5 minutes; tickets are only around €1.

By plane
Poros doesn't have an airport but many visitors come by the way of Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. It has been rebuilt and now offers spacious air-conditioned halls, shopping facilities, several restaurants and internet cafés.

From Venizelos, there is a shuttle bus (Number X95) going straight to the port of Piraeus (Port no. 8). The buses are also top of the line, very comfortable and air-conditioned. It makes absolutely no sense to take a taxi since it's no faster than the bus but will cost you €30 instead of €3 for the bus ticket. Chances are also very high that the driver will overcharge you, so confirm the price before you get in the taxi. The “Karaiskakis Square” bus stop is next to Gate 8, from which the ferry boat as well as the hydrofoil boat leave for Poros. From Piraeus there are ferries to Poros, per By boat above.

Alternatively you can get a limousine driver to meet you at the airport – or any other meeting place of your choice, and drive you to Galatas, next to Poros. The first 100 km are on the motorway, and then you will continue on country roads through beautiful scenery via Epidaurus to the village of Galatas, where you can get over to Poros in a private boat in four minutes time. This trip takes about 2½ hours door to door, and costs about €300 depending on number of passengers, including tolls and boat.

You can also fly to Poros from the airport by helicopter, a service which started in 2004. The price depends on your luggage.

Given that the ferries from Galatas take cars too, getting in by car (e.g. rented at the airport) can possibly also be an option, especially if you plan to explore the Greek countryside further (see Greece).

By bus
There are public bus connections (KTEL, phone service 14505, in Greek) between Piraeus, Isthmos, Nafplio and Galatas. From there you can get to Poros in just a few minutes by ferry, as mentioned in By boat above.

Get around

Poros consists of two smaller islands, connected via a small bridge: Sfairia island with the town of Poros and the pine-clad Kalavria island. Together they cover 31 km² and have a coastline of 42 km. Vigla is the highest peak with an altitude of 358 m.

Bus and taxi terminals are located in the centre of the beach area. Access to boats that go along the shores of Galata is also available there. In general public transport around the island runs smoothly all day. Buses leave every hour while boats depart every ten minutes. On the beach you can find scooter and bike rentals whereas cars are rented just opposite the island, in Galata.

By boat
Small boats connect Poros with Galata (every 10 minutes), the charming Alike beach, underneath the Lemon Groves, and – upon demand – Askeli beach. The ferry boat to Galata connects the island with the mainland once an hour, from 07:10 to 22:10 daily (€1 per passenger). In the summer it runs every 30 minutes. Taxi service includes cars and boats, both working 24 hours a day, with an emergency service for the late night hours only.

On foot
Poros is a fairly small island, perfect for hiking, jogging, and lazy strolls through the town’s picturesque alleyways or along the cosmopolitan harbor promenade. A moderately fit person can walk from the town centre to the monastery in approximately an hour.

By bus
Public transport offers two bus lines, both starting from the central square on the harbor promenade. With “Neorion Line” you can explore the southwest coastline with the beaches of Cochylia, Neorion, Love Bay and the Russian Bay. The “Monastery Line” drives along the southeastern coast with the beaches of Askeli, Panagitsa, and picturesque Monastery Beach. The fares are moderate. They do not, however, tend to run very late into the evening as demand is fairly low at that time. Their timing is fairly predictable except at lunchtime when the schoolchildren break up and buses can occasionally be kept waiting to pick them up.

By taxi
There are also a number of grey taxis on the island – reasonably cheap to use. Expect to pay about €6 plus tip from the town centre (that is, the port) to the monastery. The island is too small to support a population of rogue taxis.

By car
In case you travel with your own car or motor bike, a ferry boat will bring you over from Galata every hour between 08:00 and 22:00 daily. In the summer schedules are every 30 minutes. Ticket reservation is not necessary.

Driving one's own car within the town itself is not recommended as the seafront road is narrow and one-way only except for mopeds and motorcycles. It is frequently constricted by pick-ups and vans delivering to tavernas and shops (unavoidable) and the thoughtless people who will park their car anywhere to avoid walking a few extra yards (eminently avoidable).

Notice that you can't take rental motorbikes out of the island.

See

Do

Sleep
Hotel rates are given as for the low season. They skyrocket during the high season (defined as July to September); in some cases rates may more than double.

Connect
Poros town has 4G from all Greek carriers, but most of the island has no signal. As of Aug 2022, 5G has not reached this area.

Go next

Poros is connected with the island of Aegina and the Methana peninsula by ferry boat, and with Hydra and Spetses island and the ports of Ermioni and Porto Heli by hydrofoil boat.

 * Aegina — was a rival of ancient Athens and it was the first capital of modern Greece after the War of Independence; visit the Temple of Aphaea.
 * Corinth Canal — travelling by car you will cross this famous canal, 6.4 km long and built in 1881.
 * Epidaurus — the 15,000-seat theatre located up hill from Epidaurus port is marveled at for its exceptional acoustics, and as is usual for Greek theatres, the view of the lush landscape behind the skênê is an integral part of the theatre.
 * Methana — visit the volcano and the city's sulfurous spa.
 * Troezen — visit the ancient Trizina and the "Vasiliki Tafi" (the royal cemetery), among other great archaeological finds of the Mycenaean period.
 * Hydra (Hidra) — the car-free capital of the island was constructed on the slopes of a hill around a port that impresses visitors with its elegant stone mansions
 * Spetses — an island of elegant medieval mansions and beautiful beaches that is ideal for long promenades
 * Porto Heli — a small seaside town with a large port, which is a frequent mooring place for fishing boats and yachts in the summer and a favourite of Athenians who have holiday homes there. Well-known in the region for the Amanzo'e Aman Resort and beach facilities.
 * Nafplio — near the archaeological site of Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
 * Galatas across the narrow straight.

title: Poros


text:
Porsgrunn

Porsgrunn is a town in the county of Telemark in Norway with a population of 35,000 (2010). The larger town of Skien is nearby and the combined urban area has a population of 87,000. Porsgrunn is a well known industrial town, and industries here include Porsgrunds Porselænsfabrik, a porcelain factory established in 1885.

By train
From Oslo Central Station it's about 3 hours. Trains often terminate at Larvik, and the last leg to Porsgrunn is then serviced by bus.

By bus
Nor-way Bussexpress and the slightly cheaper, but less frequent Konkurrenten operate buses between Oslo and Porsgrunn.

By plane
Skien Geiteryggen Airport is served by daily flights from Bergen, Stavanger and Molde, and three times per week from Stockholm, Sweden. There are frequent buses between Skien and Porsgrunn, and the taxi ride should not be too expensive either (relative to Norwegian prices).

Sandefjord Airport, Torp serviced by Ryanair, KLM, Widerøe and others, is also a good option to travel to Porsgrunn. There is a bus (Telemarkekspressen) and train connection and it takes about 90 minutes to get to the city centre.

Get around
There is a well-functioning bus system that can take you to all parts of the municipality. Recommended trips include going to nearby dense wooden house city Brevik or going to a lovely old captain's villa called Mule Varde. In summer, you can swim in the Eidangerfjord and go for a stroll in the 100-year-old park.

See

 * Porsgrunds Porcelænsfabrik, a porcelain factory established in 1885. The factory has a riverside café, a shop and a factory outlet where you can buy high quality porcelain at low prices. The factory is open for tours Monday to Friday 10:00, 11:00 and 13:00. Always preorder your tour on, or e-mail: fabrikkutsalget@porsgrund.com. The factory also included Gallery Porsgrunn with art exhibitions.
 * Porsgrunn Bymuseum is the town museum. It's close to the Down Town shopping mall. Here you will find many interiors and exhibits from the Porsgrunn's 500-year-history as a growing town with trade and industry. The museum has a near complete collection of all products manufactured by the porcelain factory.
 * Porsgrunn sjøfartsmuseum, also close to the Down Town shopping mall. The city has a long and proud history as a harbour and shipping town, and once was one of Norway's most important such. A lot of tall ships belonged to the city. This museum contains many objects from this period, including models of ships, as well as the fully restored tugboat Hans Martin, built in concrete using a special technique developed in Porsgrunn.

Do
The city. Take a walk along the river where you can visit numerous small shops, restaurants and cafés.

Porsgrunn International Theatre Festival (PIT) is a week-long festival with lots of indoor and outdoor theatres, arranged in June every year. The festival is arranged by the local Grenland Friteater. The festival is varied, with The Street of Fools where you can stop by and watch for free or give the artists a dime, go to the festival cafe, Kafe K, and have a conversation or go to concerts, or you can visit the many performances for all tastes. Late and early. For young and old. Indoors and out. Check out the festival here.

Buy
Porsgrunn has a long cosy shopping street with lots of small cafés and shops. If you prefer shop indoors, you can go to the shopping mall Down Town, located south in the city, by the bridge. The porcelain factory across the bridge has two factory outlets, where it is possible to buy expensive or cheap porcelain.

Eat
As with most medium sized Norwegian cities, there is no abundance of restaurants in Porsgrunn. There is decent Chinese cuisine available, Italian and pizza restaurants. But up along the river you can find small high quality restaurants, like Friisebrygga Mat & Vin (a nice place to meet and talk to locals) or the slightly more exclusive Michel Seylmagers restaurant, located by the City Hall staircase.

Drink
There are numerous bars up along the main street. You can drink beer and enjoy one of Norway's numerous copies of an Irish pub at The Dubliner, the cultural alibi Kafe K or the calmness of Café Osebro, where you can dine down by the river in a cosy garden - everything is cosy in Porsgrunn - as the local saying goes. Porsgrunn is a traditional tall ship and trading community, and you can still meet some former seamen at Sailors pub. If you want to catch up with the local alternative community, try out the brown pub Karjolen loacated on the ground floor of Folkets hus, the building of the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions.

Sleep
Porsgrunn is not abundant with hotels, and there are more options available at the nearby Skien.

title: Porsgrunn


text:
Portage (Indiana)

Portage is a town in Northwestern Indiana. It's industrialized, but not quite as heavily as Gary to the west.

Get in

 * South Shore Line, stops on the north side of the city along Hwy 12 near Ogden Dunes.

Get around

Do

 * Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Pavilion, 100 Riverwalk Dr. Part of the Indiana Dunes National Park, gives ample access to views of Lake Michigan, with a fishing pier and breakwater. Tel: +1 219-762-1675.

Go next
Chicago is about 1-3 hours away on I 94 or I 90. ALLOW TIME DURING PEAK HOURS!!!

title: Portage (Indiana)


text:
Portage (Wisconsin)

Portage is a city in Southwest Wisconsin, that bears the slogan "Where the North begins."

Understand
In 1673, French explorers Louis Joliet and Jacques Marquette were excited to learn of a crossing over point or portage between the Wisconsin and Fox Rivers here on their way to find a route to the Mississippi River, a feat that would portend great promise for the fur trade in due time. Years later, in 1994, Jeffrey Dahmer would do his own crossing over of a different kind in this same locale.

Get in

 * Route stopping at Portage:
 * Empire Builder operating daily between Seattle/Portland and Chicago including stops at Spokane, Glacier National Park, Fargo, Saint Paul, and Milwaukee. The trains split into separate branches between Seattle and Spokane, and between Portland and Spokane, while operating as trains consisting of train cars from both branches between Spokane and Chicago.
 * Empire Builder operating daily between Seattle/Portland and Chicago including stops at Spokane, Glacier National Park, Fargo, Saint Paul, and Milwaukee. The trains split into separate branches between Seattle and Spokane, and between Portland and Spokane, while operating as trains consisting of train cars from both branches between Spokane and Chicago.

See

 * Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters, 1824 WI-33. All that is left of Fort Winnebago that was occupied by the US Army to protect the Fox-Wisconsin Rivers portage traffic from the Winnebago Indians during the early 19th century. An interesting tidbit is that one Lieutenant Jefferson Davis of later Confederate notoriety was once stationed here. Nearby is the Indian Agency House which had an indigenous school.
 * Fort Winnebago Surgeons Quarters, 1824 WI-33. All that is left of Fort Winnebago that was occupied by the US Army to protect the Fox-Wisconsin Rivers portage traffic from the Winnebago Indians during the early 19th century. An interesting tidbit is that one Lieutenant Jefferson Davis of later Confederate notoriety was once stationed here. Nearby is the Indian Agency House which had an indigenous school.

Do
Try a walk along the Wisconsin River pathway in town, just mind the ice in winter because that first step's a doozy.

Sleep

 * Best Western Resort Hotel & Conference Center, 2701 County Rd CX. Indoor pool, looks like it could fit into some cityscape in the Baltics. +1 608-742-2200. $81 (Aug 2023)

title: Portage (Wisconsin)


text:
Portage County (disambiguation)

There's more than one place called Portage County:

United States of America

 * Portage County - in Ohio
 * Portage County (Wisconsin) - in Wisconsin

title: Portage County (disambiguation)


text:
Portage la Prairie

Portage la Prairie is a city of over 13,000 people (2016) in the Central Plains region of Manitoba. Because the land is very fertile, Portage la Prairie is a major agricultural centre in Manitoba.

Understand
The name is derived from the French word portage, which means to carry a canoe overland between waterways. In this case the "portage" was between the Assiniboine River and Lake Manitoba, over la prairie.

The city became a major transportation centre due to its proximity to the river, and later, the location of the main lines of the country's national railways passing through the community.

Portage la Prairie has the most sunny days during the warm months in Canada. Portage has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, dry winters.

Talk
Despite the city's heritage, the vast majority of residents have English as their first language, with less than three percent speaking French; roughly the same percentage speak German.

By car
Portage la Prairie is located on Provincial Trunk Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway), about 60 km west of Winnipeg. About 13 km west of the city is the eastern terminus of Provincial Trunk Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway), which travels from Prince Rupert, British Columbia via Edmonton, Alberta and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

By train

 * Train operator:
 * Routes serving Portage La Prairie:
 * The Canadian between Toronto and Vancouver with stops in both directions in medium to large cities and tourist destinations such as Sudbury, Winnipeg, Portage la Prairie, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper, and Kamloops. Travel time to Portage La Prairie from Winnipeg is 1.5 hours and from Saskatoon is 12.25 hours.
 * Between Winnipeg and Churchill twice per week with stops along the way in Portage la Prairie, Dauphin, Roblin, Kamsack, Canora, Hudson Bay, The Pas and Thompson. Travel time to Portage La Prairie from Winnipeg is 1.25 hours, from The Pas is 12.25 hours, from Thompson is 1 day 1.5 hours, and from Churchill is 1 day 20 hours.

By bus

 * Operates a route between Winnipeg and Flin Flon including stops in Portage la Prairie, Neepawa, Ste. Rose du Lac, Dauphin, Swan River, and The Pas.

Get around
Public transportation in Portage la Prairie is pretty scarce. Many people walk, but it is not a very efficient travel method as the town is very spread out and for a large part of the year it is quite cold.

Do

 * Hot Blizzard Folk Festival in February
 * Portage Exhibition & Fair ("PortageX") held every July
 * Portage Exhibition & Fair ("PortageX") held every July

Go next

 * The community of Southport, about 5 km (3.1 mi) south of Portage la Prairie, is home to a small recreation complex featuring a gymnasium and 5-pin bowling alley, and displays military/air force history throughout the town and airport. It celebrates Canadian Forces Day in early June.

title: Portage la Prairie


text:
Port Alberni

Port Alberni is a city of about 18,000 people (2011) in British Columbia. It is at the base of Mount Arrowsmith and is practically surrounded by mountains.

Understand
The town is a major service centre for local, regional, and provincial governments, and a supply centre and hospital for west coast communities like Bamfield, Tofino, and Ucluelet. The natural resources of the area are taking centre stage again, as Port Alberni re-orients itself from logging to tourism. The area's amenities, such as the natural beauty of the area, the opportunities for fishing (marine and freshwater), its convenience as a jumping-off point for new outdoor recreation and ecotourism activities such as hiking, kayaking, and mountain-biking, lend themselves to these activities very well.

History
Port Alberni and the West Coast of Vancouver Island is the traditional territory of the Tseshaht and Hupacasath First Nations of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council. The Nuu-chah-nulth were previously called the Nootka. Many place names in Port Alberni have a Nuu-chah-nulth origin, such as Somass (washing), Kitsuksis (log across mouth of creek), Pacheena (foamy), and Nootka (go around). Ancient petroglyph carvings can be found at Sproat Lake.

In March 1787, Captain Charles William Barkley of the Imperial Eagle, explored Barkley Sound, which now bears his name. Barkley travelled with his 17-year-old bride, Frances Barkley, the first European woman to visit what is now British Columbia. In 1860, the Anderson company from England set up a sawmill operation. This was the first mill in B.C. built to export lumber. The mill failed, but several others were established in the 1880s. In 1862, small-scale placer gold mining took place on China Creek; in the 1890s more gold mining took place along the Alberni Inlet at China Creek and Mineral Creek. Several gold veins were found. Exploration for gold continued over the years with peaks in the 1930s and 1960s.

With ample western red cedar and Douglas fir forests surrounding the valley, the forest industry became the dominant economic force. Large logging operators moved in. Sawmills were built at Alberni, Great Central Lake, and the McLean Mill. By the Second World War, plywood mills and a nascent pulp industry had started. For the next forty years, the forest industry reigned supreme.

Climate
Although the summer months do see a relatively small amount of precipitation, the vast majority of it comes during the winter months as cool, moist air flows from the Pacific Ocean over the much colder B.C. coast. Despite its location on the relatively dryer east side of Vancouver Island, the resulting weak rain shadow is not enough to keep the city dry.

By car
The city of Port Alberni is about an hour's drive west of Nanaimo on Highway 4.

By plane
An airport exists, about 20 minutes from the city. However, there is no regular year-round service, because it is not certified for instrument landings, and fog is so prevalent in the winter.

Seaplanes

 * Seasons flights to Port Alberni from Vancouver (40 minutes) and Bamfield (15 minutes) from May 1 to September 30.

Chartered float planes can land in the harbour.

Do

 * Biking: some excellent mountain biking circuits, including winding, ultra-challenging routes. Ask at the Visitor Centre about trails and maps.
 * Fishing: Port Alberni, also known as the Salmon Capital of the World, was designated as the World Fishing Network’s first “Ultimate Fishing Town 2010.” Anglers can find an abundance of both river and ocean fishing in the Alberni Valley because the port is at the end of a long arm of the ocean with many rivers flowing in to it.
 * Fishing: Port Alberni, also known as the Salmon Capital of the World, was designated as the World Fishing Network’s first “Ultimate Fishing Town 2010.” Anglers can find an abundance of both river and ocean fishing in the Alberni Valley because the port is at the end of a long arm of the ocean with many rivers flowing in to it.
 * Fishing: Port Alberni, also known as the Salmon Capital of the World, was designated as the World Fishing Network’s first “Ultimate Fishing Town 2010.” Anglers can find an abundance of both river and ocean fishing in the Alberni Valley because the port is at the end of a long arm of the ocean with many rivers flowing in to it.
 * Fishing: Port Alberni, also known as the Salmon Capital of the World, was designated as the World Fishing Network’s first “Ultimate Fishing Town 2010.” Anglers can find an abundance of both river and ocean fishing in the Alberni Valley because the port is at the end of a long arm of the ocean with many rivers flowing in to it.

Hiking
Hike one of the many trails around the town and in the mountains.

title: Port Alberni


text:
Portales

Portales is a small, fairly quiet college and agricultural town in Southeast New Mexico, United States. Home of Eastern New Mexico University. Nearest sizable town is Clovis; close to Cannon Air Force Base. Located almost adjacent to the Texas border. 90 miles from Roswell of UFO fame.

Get in
Portales is located on the Llano Estacado (Staked Plains) in extreme eastern New Mexico, at the junction of US 70, NM 206 and NM 267. These roads are all good but rather remote, and can be troublesome during winter blizzards. The nearest air service is via commuter lines into the airport at Clovis, about 15 miles away.

Get around
Walk or drive your own car. No local bus or taxi service.

See

 * Eastern New Mexico University has the usual small-college features, and maintains two museums: Blackwater Draw Museum off US 70, which preserves artifacts from a nearby archaeological site of some significance, and Roosevelt County Museum on campus, with the usual collection of items of local historical interest.

title: Portales


text:
Port Alfred

Port Alfred is a town on the Sunshine Coast of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It is situated at the mouth of the Kowie River, almost exactly midway between Port Elizabeth in the west and East London in the east. It boasts fabulous beaches that stretch for many kilometres in both directions.

By car
From Port Elizabeth take the N2 east then the R72 along the coast via Kenton. From East London take the R72 south-west along the coast. From Grahamstown take the R67 south via Bathurst.

Get around
Port Alfred is small enough that the entire town can easily be covered on foot. It is a pleasant walk from town along the west bank of the Kowie River to the beach (via Causeway and Beach Road). There are beaches on the eastern side of the Kowie River mouth as well but these are quite a bit further as you have to walk around the Royal Alfred Marina.

Boating and cruising

 * Fishing: Whether you prefer reef, river, estuary, deep sea or coastal fishing, there are plenty of incredible locations within the Sunshine Coast to choose from. Port Alfred is famous for being the third largest “line fishing port” in South Africa.
 * Diving: The shores of the Sunshine Coast are host to the most unique diving experience in the Eastern Cape. This part of the coast is famous for soft coral reefs, numerous wrecks that dot the shores and the incredible “Lunar landing” where crayfish in the hundreds live and breed.
 * Fishing: Whether you prefer reef, river, estuary, deep sea or coastal fishing, there are plenty of incredible locations within the Sunshine Coast to choose from. Port Alfred is famous for being the third largest “line fishing port” in South Africa.
 * Diving: The shores of the Sunshine Coast are host to the most unique diving experience in the Eastern Cape. This part of the coast is famous for soft coral reefs, numerous wrecks that dot the shores and the incredible “Lunar landing” where crayfish in the hundreds live and breed.
 * Fishing: Whether you prefer reef, river, estuary, deep sea or coastal fishing, there are plenty of incredible locations within the Sunshine Coast to choose from. Port Alfred is famous for being the third largest “line fishing port” in South Africa.
 * Diving: The shores of the Sunshine Coast are host to the most unique diving experience in the Eastern Cape. This part of the coast is famous for soft coral reefs, numerous wrecks that dot the shores and the incredible “Lunar landing” where crayfish in the hundreds live and breed.
 * Fishing: Whether you prefer reef, river, estuary, deep sea or coastal fishing, there are plenty of incredible locations within the Sunshine Coast to choose from. Port Alfred is famous for being the third largest “line fishing port” in South Africa.
 * Diving: The shores of the Sunshine Coast are host to the most unique diving experience in the Eastern Cape. This part of the coast is famous for soft coral reefs, numerous wrecks that dot the shores and the incredible “Lunar landing” where crayfish in the hundreds live and breed.
 * Fishing: Whether you prefer reef, river, estuary, deep sea or coastal fishing, there are plenty of incredible locations within the Sunshine Coast to choose from. Port Alfred is famous for being the third largest “line fishing port” in South Africa.
 * Diving: The shores of the Sunshine Coast are host to the most unique diving experience in the Eastern Cape. This part of the coast is famous for soft coral reefs, numerous wrecks that dot the shores and the incredible “Lunar landing” where crayfish in the hundreds live and breed.

Eat
Isigwamba (spinach with maize meal

Drink

 * The Lounge @ The Square - Popular, modern club for students
 * Beach Club - A typical coastal pub with a beach feeling, and it often has fun promo events.
 * Roxy - Club right on the beach front.
 * Highlander - Typical British style pub. Good food too.
 * Barmuda - Cocktail bar on the bank of the Kowie River

Go next

 * Addo
 * Baviaans
 * Grahamstown
 * Jeffreys Bay & St Francis
 * Karoo Heartland
 * Sunshine Coast
 * Tsitsikamma

title: Port Alfred


text:
Port Allegany

Port Allegany is a borough located in the mountains of northwest Pennsylvania. It is located on the border of McKean and Potter Counties. Route 6 is the Main Street of Port Allegany. The atmosphere is of a small town Americana with a populace of just over 2,100.

title: Port Allegany


text:
Port Angeles

Port Angeles is the largest city in the Olympic Peninsula region of Washington, dubbed as the "Center of it All" for the specific part of the state. It is the county seat of Clallam County. It's a great place to start for a day trip to Hurricane Ridge or a vacation to explore all of the Olympic National Park. Outdoor sports like kayaking, biking or hiking are very popular, while the quaint shops attract shoppers downtown and the expansive waterfront provides relaxation. With ferries coming and going all day, Port Angeles is the departure point for a trip to Victoria (British Columbia). Beautiful Pacific beaches are nearby and the lavender fields and berry farms of Sequim beckon all summer. Port Angeles is the place to be when it comes to experiencing all that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer.

Due to the vast and spreading area, this article covers listings as far west as Joyce on Highway 112 towards Neah Bay.

Understand
Port Angeles is on the northern tip of the Olympic Peninsula at the northwestern side of the state of Washington in the United States. Comparably however, it is closer to Victoria (British Columbia's capital) than the state capital of Olympia!

Like most of Washington, the development of the city revolves around its nature. Pitted closely by the Olympic National Park and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Port Angeles is the gateway for outdoor adventure, with roads leading to breathtaking lakes, stunning vistas, and the towering Olympics. Though notably less notorious than its 'angelic' counterpart in California, this quiet town had its great times when the explorers map the area and traders set posts there thanks to its deep waters.

History
The area around Port Angeles was inhabited predominantly by the Indian tribes of Klallam and Makah in an area abundant of natural resources: coniferous forests and deep blue sea that sustain prolific wildlife & marine life for daily survivals.

The first non-native sighting of the peninsula was made by explorer Juan Perez in 1774, while the first sailing along the Strait of Juan de Fuca was recorded by Captain Charles Barkley who named the water body after the Greek explorer (Ioannis Phokas) striving to seek the Strait of Anián, which legend has it is actually this same water passage. The city was then named "The Port of Our Lady of the Angels" by Spanish explorer Francisco Eliza in 1791 as it provides a haven from the rough seas of the strait, before it was incorporated to the namesake town in 1861.

Port Angeles' prime location attracts a couple aspiring businessmen to set afoot and develop the land further. Beginning with a port of entry for imported goods in the 1860s to being a federal townsite for lighthouse & military. It was the second city fully plot by the federal government after Washington, D.C, earning the city a nickname "Second National City". Alongside the federal government, entrepreneurs were trying their luck by erecting timber businesses and a fisherman wharf, and along with it commercial industries for incoming settlements. Through the next 100 years, some of the largest sawmills have bankrupted and replaced by other money-making sectors, yet the city has always been a lovable place to live: not too quiet like a village, but not too crowded like metropolitan cities.

Today, the city has a population of around 50,000 with both outside settlements and Indian natives living in harmony.

Climate
Like the rest of western Washington, most of the rain falls in fall and winter before tapering off in spring and gloriously sunny on most summer days. Comparatively speaking however, the amount of rain the city gets is one of the lowest in the peninsula at 25 in thanks to the Olympic rain shadow; Forks, a town 60 mi west of Port Angeles, gets more than thrice the amount of annual rainfall!

Though snow is a rare occurrence, it is more susceptible than Seattle due to its unique topography: frigid cold air that occasionally blows from Canada slams into the Olympics above Port Angeles, often times keeping the low temperature longer than other areas of the peninsula.

Thanks to the moderating ocean effect, summers are comfortably warm with high temperatures usually no higher than the 70s (F, about 26°C), and winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing except during the above situation.

By car
The main road traversing Port Angeles is the US Highway 101, which loops around the Olympic Peninsula. The nearest major towns are Forks, 1 hour to the west, and Sequim, 30 minutes away in the east.

Travelers from Seattle or points north can get into the area in just 2 hours using a ferry from Edmonds to Kingston, and then continuing to Route 104 before merging with Highway 101. Travelers from south of Seattle can take the Interstate 5, exit to Highway 16 (passing the Tacoma Narrows Bridge) through the Kitsap Peninsula, before merging with the Highway 101 portion that goes along the Hood Canal. Travelers from Olympia or points south can get off I-5 at Hwy 101 and follow the road through Shelton, Brinon and the Hood Canal up to Port Angeles.

By plane
The William R. Fairchild International Airport is on the west side of the city. The airport is used primarily for charter and general aviation purposes. The nearest airports for commercial flights are Victoria International Airport in Sidney, BC, 27km north of Victoria; and Seattle Tacoma International Airport  in Seattle. Be sure to have the proper travel documents to cross the border between Canada and the United States if arriving and/or departing through Victoria.

See the other modes of transportation below for traveling into Port Angeles from both Seattle and Victoria.

By boat
Port Angeles has a direct connection to Victoria, BC on Canada's Vancouver Island. One can also get to the roads towards Port Angeles after using the Washington State Ferries that dock at Port Townsend or Kingston.
 * Port Townsend from Coupeville on Whidbey Island.
 * Kingston from Edmonds (WA-Hwy 104/Hwy 3). Follow WA-Hwy 104 from the ferry terminal up towards the Hood Canal Bridge via Port Gamble. From there continue towards Highway 101.
 * Port Townsend from Coupeville on Whidbey Island.
 * Kingston from Edmonds (WA-Hwy 104/Hwy 3). Follow WA-Hwy 104 from the ferry terminal up towards the Hood Canal Bridge via Port Gamble. From there continue towards Highway 101.

Port Angeles Boat Haven is nestled in the nook of Ediz Hook and is a direct route from Victoria (British Columbia). It is a perfect stop over for boaters plying the waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound.

By bus
The main bus station is at the downtown for Clallam Transit and Olympic Bus Lines at 123 E Front St, at Front & Lincoln, about 100 m (325 ft) east of the entrance to the Black Ball Ferry Line ferry terminal, by walking along East Railway Ave. Buses travel along US Hwy 101 between Forks, Port Angeles and Sequim. They do not go into the Olympic National Park. They can only drop off along the main road and it is up to the individual to hike into the park or arrange other transportation into the park:

 * Operates routes including:
 * Route 10 from Joyce & Lyre River Makes local stops in and out of town.
 * Route 14 from Forks. Makes local stops in and out of town. Transfer available at Hwy 101/SR 113 junction in Sappho for travel on Route 16 to and from Neah Bay.
 * Route 30 from Sequim Makes local stops in and out of town.
 * Route 123 Strait Shot from Bainbridge Island ferry terminal. Limited stop service. The "Strait Shot" (#123) runs thrice daily (M-Sa) and twice on Sundays in each direction to and from the Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal (nearest terminal to Downtown Seattle) with limited stops in Sequim, Jamestown, Discovery Bay, Suquamish Way & SR305, and North Viking P&R in Poulsbo. Travel time from Bainbridge Island ferry terminal is 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours.

By bicycle
The Olympic Discovery Trail passes Port Angeles from Port Townsend in the east part of the Olympic peninsula to La Push that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The section east of Port Angeles is a well marked car free trail, much of which is paved, and easy to traverse on a loaded touring bicycle. West of Port Angeles is the "adventure" part of the trail, for which a cross-country mountain bike is recommended. The trail is non-technical single track, making it an introductory level XC, challenging but doable on a loaded touring bicycle.

By bus
Public transportation is provided by Clallam Transit. The fare for each bus ride is $1 for adults, $0.50 for youth and seniors with a Regional Reduced Fare Permit card. Routes 20, 22, 24, and 26 serve the city proper while Route 30 serves the Highway 101 corridor before continuing towards Sequim. The bus does not run on Sundays with the exception of the Strait Shot (#123) route.

By car
Most visitors go to and around the town by car, especially those who would venture far out into the Olympic National Park or anywhere off the Hwy 101 corridor. Parking is generally easy to find, but the downtown area only allows 2 hours of street parking. Taking the bus up here (see 'By bus' under 'Getting in' in the above) from Sea-Tac and renting car here may cheaper than renting a car at the airport, especially with the 12% airport surcharge, and driving up here especially. Check the car rental companies' websites for rate differences between renting at the airport, somewhere in Seattle or Port Angeles. Avis & Budget are next door to the Gateway Bus Transit Center while Enterprise is several blocks east on E 1st St.

See
Travelers tend to trek into the Olympic National Park rather than the town itself for sightseeing. However, those who would rather stay in town for at least a day or two should not be left unsatisfied.

Olympic National Park
With the exception of Hurricane Ridge, all attractions are free of charge, with only a short walk needed.

Buy
Port Angeles has the largest selection of outdoor gears and equipment, just in case you can only buy or forget to bring it before venturing out to nature around the Peninsula.

Eat
Being near the water means get ready for delectable seafood. Look for salmon, clams, and the sweet and soft Dungeness crabs.

The downtown has been gentrifying enough that some ethnic restaurants, especially Asian, can be seen throughout.

Sleep
Group travelers can find a better deal by renting vacation homes around the area. For small groups that want a stay of homey feeling, there are also multiple choices of BnB accommodations.

Budget
Many budget hotels are located downtown, with easy access to restaurants and shops.

Connect
Most telecom companies are able to stream 4G-LTE internet speed at the downtown area, but it can quickly deteriorate the further away you are from Highway 101. In the national park, coverage can be spotty at Lake Crescent, to non-existent at Hurricane Ridge.

The area codes for Port Angeles, and Western Washington as a whole, are 360 and 564. Because their areas overlap, all numbers must be dialed with the area code, including local calls.

You may even get Canadian networks at times which could lead to roaming costs; but it will be helpful for Canadians calling back home.

Go next

 * Olympic National Park
 * Sequim - As one of Port Angeles' next door neighbors, it is a bit more rural and still offers somewhat of a small-town atmosphere.
 * Forks - Take the Olympic Loop for a scenic drive around the Olympic Peninsula, including the Hoh Rain Forest and Stephenie Meyers' 'Twilight' town of Forks.
 * Victoria, BC Canada - Take the Blackball MV Coho from Port Angeles to Victoria, BC Canada.

title: Port Angeles


text:
Port Antonio

Port Antonio is a town in Jamaica. Tucked away on the eastern point of the island, Port Antonio is still relatively unknown by most tourists, but it has for years been the hideaway of royalty and stars alike. It is easy to see why. Its seclusion is what gives this town its charm. The beaches are beautiful, albeit a bit rocky. However the seclusion from throngs of other tourists is a huge payoff. The people are extremely friendly, and the whole city rings with a unique character all its own.

Get in
Port Antonio is northeast of Kingston and east of Ocho Rios. From Kingston to Port Antonio, you would have to fly into Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and from there possibly take a cab; or take the cheaper route and rent a car from Island Car Rental Ltd Company located in Kingston. If you’re coming from Ocho Rios you can either take a cab, drive east on Highway A4/A3 or take a flight from Ocho Rios private airport.

Get around
Port Antonio is considered to be one of most accessible towns in Jamaica. To get around one could take a local taxi. However, if you want to take in the sights a little more (and most sights are in walking distance) you could either walk or ride a bicycle.

See
There are many interesting things to see in Port Antonio. A “must see” is the Blue Lagoon. At this attraction, the blue lagoon is described to be a land-lock cove where different shades of blue, color the lagoon. At this spot tourists are welcome to swim in the lagoon if they wish. This spot is also known for its romantic feel, so it’s great for couples. Another hotspot is the Navy Island. This is located off the island, but a short boat ride away. Here one can enjoy its beautiful golden-sand beaches and its own tropical rainforest. Other sights to behold are classic buildings that are still much intact, such as Portland Parish Church and Portland Parish court house. Go to Frenchmans cove for a nice beach environment or even Boston Bay to catch some surf with the locals!

Do
Besides sight seeing, there are many things to do in Port Antonio. Of course, you can go to the beaches and just lay out in the sun or you can surf, the beaches have good waves. In Rio Grande Valley of Antonio, one can either go hiking or rafting on the Rio Grande River. Finally, like most paces, you can go fishing.

Buy
The St. George Shopping Center is located in the village near the center of town. There you can shop in the markets for crafts and some juicy fruits.

Eat

 * Blue Lagoon Restaurant serves Caribbean cuisine
 * San San Tropez serves Italian cuisine
 * Trident Hotel Restaurant serves international cuisine
 * Dickies Best Kept Secret serves vegetarian and seafood 5 course meal
 * Anna Bananas serves Jamaican and international cuisine

Drink
You must try the rum punch or rum and ting! There are many bars in Port Antonio including a pool side bar at the Errol Flynn Marina.

Sleep
Port Antonio lodging consists of guest houses, hotels, and villas. Top lodging in Port Antonio:
 * Blue Lagoon Villas
 * Chateau En Exotica
 * Trident Villas & Hotel
 * Villa San Cove

Eco Friendly Resorts:
 * Great Huts in Boston Bay
 * Bay View Villas

title: Port Antonio


text:
Port Aransas

Port Aransas is a town in Texas on the northern tip of Mustang Island on the Gulf of Mexico about 30 minutes drive north from Corpus Christi.

Understand

 * Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce/Tourist Bureau 403 W. Cotter. +1 361 749-5919 or +1-800-45-COAST. Stop by and peruse the visitor's info.

You can drive on the beach on Mustang Island. The sand is mostly packed but sometimes the winds builds loose drifts and it is easy to get stuck. If you do get stuck, don't panic. Stand outside your car looking dumbfounded by the situation and usually a few burly, macho, half-drunk guys will show up in a few minutes to help push you out. Be sure to shake their hands, thank them and offer them a beer if you've got it.

To park on the beach requires a beach parking permit available at the Chamber of Commerce and most stores around town. The police patrol the beach looking for problems and for cars without parking permits.

By plane
The closest major airport is Corpus Christi International Airport.

By car
Port Aransas is accessible from the north by a free ferry that runs across the ship channel 24 hours a day (Dec 2019). Between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day the wait for the ferry can be up to 2 hours from Friday evening through Sunday evening to get on or off the island. During the week during the summer months the wait can still be 45 minutes to an hour during the day. After Labor Day, the waits are usually less than 30 minutes.

There is a causeway across the ship channel from Corpus Christi to Padre Island that makes getting to Port Aransas easier from the south, especially during the summer. The causeway is part of Park Road 22. The major highway to get there is IH-37 from San Antonio. US Hwy 77, which runs from the Mexico border to Waco (where it joins IH-35) intersects IH-37 just west of Corpus Christi.

Get around
Port Aransas is very accessible by car, although the main street through town can get very congested on summer weekends. Businesses provide ample free parking for customers and it is possible to park and walk to most shops and restaurants although the heat in the summer can be uncomfortable if you are not used to it.

Port Aransas provides a trolley that runs the length of town from the marina to the outlying RV parks for just 25 cents.

Stay safe
Port Aransas is a tourist town and fairly safe from violent crime. Thevsheriff patrol constantly, especially on the beach. One of the main problems is public intoxication, mainly on the beach.

title: Port Aransas


text:
Portarlington

Portarlington is a town in County Laois, with a population of 9300 in 2022. Locally it's referred to as "Port", but so too is nearby Portlaoise, so that term isn't used here. The River Barrow flows through town and forms the county boundary, with most of Portarlington east in County Laois, but a section of it west in County Offaly.

Understand
"Port" in this context is "Fort", as it was land confiscated after the rebellion of 1641 and awarded to Baron Arlington. His plantation colony flopped, so it was re-settled by French Huguenots, and French was used in school lessons and church services as late as 1820.

Get in
Trains from Dublin Heuston, Galway, Ballina (County Mayo) and Westport (Ireland) in County Mayo run hourly to Portarlington. Commuter trains take an hour, with stops at Dublin Park West & Cherry Orchard, Clondalkin, Adamstown, Hazelhatch & Celbridge, Sallins (for Naas), Newbridge, Kildare and Monasterevin, and they continue to Portlaoise. Inter-city trains take 45 min nonstop and continue to Tullamore, Clara and Athlone, where they branch either to Athenry and Galway or to Roscommon, Castlebar and Westport. For trains to Limerick and Cork, change at Monasterevin. In 2021 a walk-up single from Dublin is €14: see Irish Rail for timetables, fares and online tickets.

Portarlington is just south of town.

Dublin Coach 816 runs hourly, daily from Kildare and Monasterevin to Portarlington. At Kildare it connects with their M7 Dublin city to Limerick route and their N7 Dublin Airport to Portlaoise route. Total journey time from Dublin is just over an hour.

Slieve Bloom Coach 829 runs three times M-F from Portlaoise to Portarlington and Tullamore.

By road from Dublin follow N7 / M7 to Monasterevin (junction 14) then R445 / R424 west.

By boat the nearest you can get is Monasterevin on the Grand Canal / Barrow Navigation, as the spur canal to Portarlington and Mountmellick closed in 1960. The main canal and some of its branches have been restored for leisure boating but there are no plans to re-open this spur.

Get around
The town is compact, but you might need a car or transportation to see areas outside the town centre.

See

 * is the town centre, with 18th- and 19th-century low-rise in the streets around. The Huguenot tradition really only lives on in the name French Church Street, referring to St Paul's (Church of Ireland). Services were held in French in its predecessor into the 1820s, but the present church was built over the site in 1851. St Michael's is the Roman Catholic church, west on Patrick St.
 * is on a small hill south side of town. Stroll up from the car park to "The Spire", an 18th-century folly probably made from the ruin of a windmill. The town waterworks are adjacent.
 * is a ruin along R420 four km east of town. It was built in fits and starts over the 13th century, replacing a timber and earthwork structure, and in its pomp was a mighty four-towered donjon or keep with an inner and outer moat and bawn wall. But it was wrecked on multiple occasions, and was already in a sorry state when Cromwell's troops came by in 1650, and wrecked it some more just to keep their hands in. One last tenant lived here until 1737. The ruin is overgrown and unsafe, so it's closed to the public, and work is under way to try to stabilise what remains.
 * was a bog where peat was commercially extracted to burn at Portarlington power station. It caused pollution, and extraction ceased in 1980, and the cutaway bog flooded to create Lough Lurgan, now a wetland wildlife haven. Derryounce was created by digging through the peat to a layer of sand, which was heaped up to form an inland beach. There are trails and boardwalks.
 * was a bog where peat was commercially extracted to burn at Portarlington power station. It caused pollution, and extraction ceased in 1980, and the cutaway bog flooded to create Lough Lurgan, now a wetland wildlife haven. Derryounce was created by digging through the peat to a layer of sand, which was heaped up to form an inland beach. There are trails and boardwalks.

Do

 * Leisure centres: Portarlington Leisure Centre has a pool, gym and fitness classes, and Powerhouse Gym also has classes. They're both on Link Rd and you can pay as you go.
 * Golf: Portarlington Golf Club is 2 km west of town on R423. Blue tees 5941 m, par 71.
 * The French Festival, celebrating the town's Huguenot connections, is held annually for two days mid-July.

Buy

 * There's a Centra on Main St, SuperValu in the Arlington Centre, and Aldi and Lidl further south.

Connect
As of May 2021, Portarlington has 4G with Eir, and 5G with Three and Vodafone.

Go next

 * Tullamore has two famous distilleries and is on the Grand Canal.
 * Kildare is in horse-rearing country, near Curragh racecourse.
 * Athy is on the navigable River Barrow.
 * Slieve Bloom Mountains rise west of Portlaoise.

title: Portarlington


text:
Port Arthur (Tasmania)

Port Arthur is a small town and former penal settlement on the Tasman Peninsula in Tasmania, the island state of Australia. The town is about one and a half hours drive from the state capital Hobart.

The major attraction of Port Arthur is the Port Arthur Historic Site, the 40-hectare (100-acre) site of a former convict colony. Many highly recognisable ruins remain, including the penitentiary, the hospital, the insane asylum, and the church. Some portions of the site have been recreated but much is in the original condition. The Port Arthur Historic Site is Australia's best known historical site from the convict era, and one of eleven sites making up the UNESCO World Heritage listing "Australian Convict Sites".

Understand
Port Arthur was established as a timber station in 1830, supporting the infant colony of Van Diemen's Land. It became the site of a major penal (prison) colony for male convicts from 1833, a place of secondary punishment for re-offenders, in the 19th-century era of convict transportation to Van Diemen's Land (the former name of Tasmania). It very quickly gained a reputation as a "hell on earth". At its peak in the late 1840s, Port Arthur became a near self-sufficient settlement, driven by the labour of its tormented inmates. After a couple of decades of decline in the 1850s and 1860s, Port Arthur ended its days as a penal settlement in 1877.

Port Arthur was then a township and its named changed to Carnarvon in the 1880s. Land was parcelled up and put to auction while people were taking up residence in and around the old site. Timber mills and farming animals as well as produce was a major source of income while people lived there.

On Sunday 28 April 1996, Port Arthur was the site of a devastating violent crime. A single gunman killed 35 people and injured many more, with visitors, staff and locals among the victims. Memorials to those who died can be found at the site; however, visitors are asked to not attempt to discuss the massacre with locals. This massacre resulted in a drastic tightening of Australian gun control laws, which until then had been one of the most lenient in the world.

Get in
Port Arthur is located about 100 km south-east of Hobart on the Tasman Peninsula.

By car, Port Arthur is a day trip from Hobart via the A3 Tasman Highway and A9 Arthur Highway, although the Historic Site is quite large and it is good to plan at least 4–6 hours there. The roads between them are sealed and in reasonable condition, although much of the trip is on narrow country roads, not highways. Drivers from Hobart should take the Tasman Highway past Hobart Airport to Sorell and the Arthur Highway from Sorell. The road is well signposted as "Port Arthur" from the airport onwards.

Bus tours of the historic site are available through:
 * Tasman Island Cruises departing Hobart at 7AM daily and returning 6PM (adults $35, children under 17 $35, children under 3 free), includes a 3-hour cruise of the peninsula, and a 3 hour at leisure in the historic site.

Port Arthur Historic Site
Admission to the historic site is via the visitors centre from the carpark, alternatively via the dirt track next to one of the car parks. Parking at the site is free. As of Sep 2021, the entry prices available are:
 * Site entry: adult $45, child $20, concession $36
 * Coal mines tour: adult $30, child $15
 * Commandant's Tour (daily 12:30PM): adult $30, child $15, family $90
 * Escape from Port Arthur Tour (daily 11AM): adult $20, child $10, family $60
 * Isle of the Dead cemetery tour (4 per day): adult $30, child $15
 * Port Arthur Ghost Tour (Th F Sa evenings): adult $36, child $18
 * Dinner and a Ghost Tour (variable): adult $97
 * 4-hour private tour with lunch and drinks (2-10 people): $300 per person

Get around
Having arrived at Port Arthur, most people view the ruins on foot. All tickets include a 30-minute ferry trip. Visitors who purchase guided tours of the Isle of the Dead or Point Puer take this ferry to the two locations: there are no self-tours of these locations.

For the less mobile traveller, Visitor Centre facilities allow for independent access, including the cafe, restaurant, gift shop, interpretation gallery and washrooms. The remainder of the historic site comprises a variety of areas, some of which provide independent access, and others which require assisted access. Disabled parking is provided adjacent to the Visitor Centre entry. A courtesy buggy provides a regular drop off and pickup service around the site for visitors who have limited mobility. (Enquire on arrival, at the information counter, for times of operation).

Port Arthur Historic Site
The historic site is open every day of the year from 9AM. Visitors may tour the site until dusk, and those on a Ghost Tour remain until the conclusion of their tour in the late evening.

Some of the site is ruined, less from neglect and more as a consequence of several severe bushfires in the 1890s. Ruins are partially restored but the Site does not intend to reconstruct them completely. The major points of interest inside the Historic Site are:
 * The ruins of the in Champ St. This is the best known ruin on the site and one of the largest. It is located around the bay from the Visitors Centre. It opened as a flour mill in 1843 with convicts in chains driving the wheels to mill the flour. This was never successful and it was converted into a prison housing the convicts from 1857.
 * The past the Penitentiary. The house was built in 1833 and extended several times. It is not ruined, and has rooms reconstructed using furnishings of the time, illustrating both the daily lives of the Commandant and his family, and the house's later use as a hotel and boarding house from 1877 to the 1930s.
 * The leading up the hill to the ruins of the Church. The Gardens are a reconstruction of the 19th century gardens from seed analysis and descriptions from the time. In the 19th century, they were designed as a retreat for the ladies of the colony.
 * The . The colony's cemetery was placed on a small island about 200 metres into the bay from the colony proper. The Isle can only be visited on an escorted tour (see Get in). The tour takes about 1 hour and runs several times a day except on Christmas Day.
 * The Point Puer Boys' Prison. The Boys' Prison, located on the other side of the bay from the main colony, housed boys between 1834 and 1849 and was established under the reformatory impulse that young offenders might do better separately from adult prisoners. It was renowned for harsh discipline. Point Puer can only be visited on an escorted tour (see Get in). The tour begins at 11:30AM, takes about 2 hours and is available from September to July each year, excepting Christmas Day.
 * The Memorial Garden for those killed in the 1996 massacre. The Garden is on the walk between the Visitors Centre and the ferry terminal. It contains a native garden, a pool and a large cross underneath which flowers are placed for those who died (please see the Respect section below regarding visiting the Memorial Garden)
 * The Stack of Stories gallery inside the Visitors Centre. Character cards in a state-of-the-art interactive gallery inviting visitors to delve deeper into the who, what and when of the sites fascinating and layered history.

Do

 * Go on the Ghost Tour of Port Arthur. It is a fantastic experience and one not to be missed. The tours are 90 minutes long and depart each night except 25th December from the Visitor Centre. Adult $36, child $18 (Sep 2021). Bookings are essential. A steady nerve is recommended and tours are not cancelled for rain.
 * Just outside the historic site, you will find

Buy
The gift shop is in the visitor's centre has a variety of local products.

Eat

 * 1830 Restaurant & Bar has sweeping views of the Penitentiary, gardens and grounds. Its menu uses fresh seasonal produce sourced from local growers and producers, and offers a range of Tasmanian wines, craft beers, whiskeys and spirits. The restaurant and bar is open every evening through the Easter Break from 4PM with meals served from 6PM. After daylight savings on 2 April it opens for meals at 5PM.
 * Port Arthur Cafe - freshly brewed coffee and sweet treats, cold drinks, beers, wines and spirits, and fresh food, all made on site using local ingredients. Sandwiches for a picnic in the grounds, or something cooked to order.
 * Museum Coffee Shop - in the Asylum is open daily from 9AM until 5PM.  Enjoyable in all weather conditions with indoor and outdoor dining space you can enjoy a good coffee, homemade cakes, delicious snacks and light meals.
 * Visiting Magistrates House - visitors during the day can also enjoy a wine or beer, tea or coffee and light refreshments including Devonshire Tea in the restored 19th century home, which was once occupied by some of the settlement’s most important dignitaries.

Sleep
There is accommodation nearby in Port Arthur such as the Motor Inn & the Port Arthur Villas, but many travellers see Port Arthur in a day trip from Hobart.

Stay safe
This is an outdoor site with highly changeable weather. It can be quite cool even at the height of summer: prepare for daytime temperatures as low as 10–15℃ (50–60℉) in summer. Wearing comfortable walking shoes and being prepared for possible changes in weather will ensure you have an enjoyable time. A hat, sunscreen and a raincoat are strongly recommended.

Respect
The historic site generally tries to maintain a respectful attitude towards the convict-era inhabitants of the colony, many of whom led unimaginably difficult lives. They do not role-play or reenact convict times; however, you are unlikely to offend or hurt someone by making light of convict times.

The 1996 massacre is a subject to be approached carefully. Please do not discuss the massacre with staff or local residents of Port Arthur, unless they bring up the topic. Many locals and historic site staff were present in the area or were at the site of deaths that day and others had friends die. Appropriate respect and decorum should be observed in the Memorial Garden also: friends and family of those killed still visit the site. Pay particular attention to this on the anniversary of the massacre, 28 April. Talking about gun laws should also be avoided at all costs.

title: Port Arthur (Tasmania)


text:
Port Arthur (Texas)

Port Arthur is in the Gulf Coast region of Texas.

Understand
The town of about 60,000 sits at the bottom right corner of the state. Its downtown was devastated in 2005 by Hurricane Rita and again in 2017 by Hurricane Harvey. The city is flanked by oil refineries and by water. Both provide interesting scenery and jobs to the locals.

Get in
Jack Brooks Regional Airport, formerly Jefferson County Airport.

title: Port Arthur (Texas)


text:
Port Augusta

Port Augusta is a regional centre of about 12,000 people 300 km from Adelaide at the top of the Spencer Gulf. It is at the crossroads of five major highways: Port Augusta towards Adelaide, Stuart towards Darwin, Eyre towards Perth, Lincoln towards Port Lincoln and Flinders Ranges towards the northeast and eventually Mount Isa.

Understand
Dubbed as the "Gateway to the Outback", in South Australia. It is also known as the "Crossroads of Australia", being situated on the Eyre Highway connecting Perth and Adelaide, on the Stuart Highway connecting Adelaide and Darwin, on the northeast-southwest highway between Adelaide and Mt Isa and finally on the road between Sydney and Adelaide without passing through Victoria. It also lies on the routes of both the Indian-Pacific and the Ghan.

Get in
Most people visit Port Augusta on their way somewhere else.

By car
It is about 4 hours up the A1 from Adelaide. It is at the start of the Stuart Highway to Darwin, and the Eyre Highway towards Perth. It is nicknamed the "crossroads of Australia" as it is where the Adelaide-Darwin and Sydney-Perth routes meet.

Premier Stateliner have a coach terminal, with coaches between Adelaide, Whyalla and Port Lincoln stopping here. Greyhound stop here on their trips from Adelaide toward Alice Springs and Darwin.

By train
The Ghan and the Indian Pacific both pass through here but do not stop.

The only passenger trains that stop in Port Augusta are run by the Pichi Pichi Railway, which runs steam locomotives from Quorn in the Flinders Ranges. These are geared exclusively towards tourists and not as a practical travel option.

By plane
Scheduled flights no longer operate to/from Port Augusta.

Get around
The Gulf (only a few hundred metres wide at this point) divides the west and east of the town with the city centre and the main commercial street on the east side with the majority of the shops, supermarkets and small malls

See

 * Wharf Precinct - Port Augusta used to have six commercial jetty wharves, and the main street of town looked down to the wharfs. The finger wharves were replaced by a parallel wharf in the 1950s, and the town's use as a port continued. That view is now unfortunately obscured by a supermarket, and the wharf is no longer a commercial wharf, but a recreational precinct. Just behind Woolies (Woolworths).
 * Wharf Precinct - Port Augusta used to have six commercial jetty wharves, and the main street of town looked down to the wharfs. The finger wharves were replaced by a parallel wharf in the 1950s, and the town's use as a port continued. That view is now unfortunately obscured by a supermarket, and the wharf is no longer a commercial wharf, but a recreational precinct. Just behind Woolies (Woolworths).
 * Wharf Precinct - Port Augusta used to have six commercial jetty wharves, and the main street of town looked down to the wharfs. The finger wharves were replaced by a parallel wharf in the 1950s, and the town's use as a port continued. That view is now unfortunately obscured by a supermarket, and the wharf is no longer a commercial wharf, but a recreational precinct. Just behind Woolies (Woolworths).

While driving over the bridge towards the west, the sign directing you towards the left fork for Perth and Western Australia, and the right fork towards Darwin and the Northern Territory is quite unusual. Each destination is many thousands of kilometres distant.

Buy
Being at the Crossroads of Australia, Port Augusta caters for a constant stream of passing traffic. There is a Woolworths, Coles and Big-W, and almost all the services you could need before continuing on to more remote areas.

Aboriginal art is available.

Eat
During the day you have a choice of coffee shops and cafes around the town centre. After dark, the pubs, clubs, roadhouses and fast food are your choices. There is a roadhouse and a Hungry Jacks open 24-hours. The pubs and clubs only serve meals at meal times.

 * Ian's Western Hotel and Ian's Chicken Hut.

Go next
Visit Quorn - a historical Railway Town. Ride the Pichi Richi from March to November. Visit Warren George to see the Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, climb Mt Brown or hike on the Hysen Trail to Dutchmen Stern

title: Port Augusta


text:
Port au Port Peninsula

Port au Port Peninsula is an arrow-shaped peninsula jutting out into the Gulf of St. Lawrence from Western Newfoundland. The peninsula is south of Gros Morne National Park, as well as the city of Corner Brook, and north of the ferry port at Port aux Basques. Connected to the island by a narrow isthmus, the region has a lively francophone community descended from Breton fishermen and Acadians. As a result of this rich French heritage, the peninsula is the only part of the island that is officially bilingual.

While not on the peninsula, the larger community of Stephenville is often associated with the peninsula as part of the Port au Port area.

Visitors can drive Routes 460 and 490 to take what is called The French Ancestors Route, touring from the Trans-Canada Highway through Stephenville and on to the peninsula.

Regions and communities
Part of the eroded Appalachian Mountain chain, the peninsula is home to quite a variety of scenic coastline (around 130 km) and ethnic diversity collected in around twenty small, but self-sufficient, communities based around fishing, a small forest industry, and small-scale farming. A small selection of these areas and their communities:

 * Port au Port - the gateway community to the peninsula, sitting right at the isthmus, and home to the largest wooden structure in Newfoundland & Labrador, Our Lady of Mercy Church
 * The Bar - from Lourdes, home to Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, through Black Duck Brook to Long Point, a seasonal community, on the tip of a narrow strip of land with the Gulf of St. Lawrence on the west side and the Port au Port Bay on the east side
 * Route de mon grand-pere (Route of my grandfather) - the lively French communities of De Grau, Cap St-George (Cape St. George), and La Grand'Terre (Mainland)
 * The South Coast - breathtaking ocean views and a peak into Port au Port industry with Atlantic Minerals

Other destinations

 * Cap St-Georges/Cape St. George - immensely high sea cliffs being hit by large waves, great hiking along Route de mon grand-pere, and whale-watching from the trail or nearby rest stop
 * Red Island - just offshore in the La Grand'Terre/Mainland area, this island lives up to its name

Understand
Called Port of Rest by 16th-century Basque fishermen, Port au Port was a site of French and Basque seasonal fisheries for hundreds of years. Eventually, some of the fisherfolk began to stake out homesteads on the peninsula and in the area. This entire area of settlement became known as the "French Shore", with Port au Port as one of the heavily settled areas.

With its Roman Catholic traditions, Francophone culture, and excellent music and theatre festivals, the Port au Port region has made a name for itself in presenting a full cultural experience as well as spectacular views of cliffs, rocky beaches, whales and birds.

Talk
Unlike Newfoundland English, Newfoundland French is nearly extinct. Newfoundland French is distinct from other Canadian French dialects including Quebec French and Acadian French, and is generally found in the Port au Port Peninsula. The language was deliberately discouraged by the government in the 20th century, so visitors can expect most people they encounter to speak English. However, if you speak French, here's your chance to engage with a fascinating dialect. You will find Francophone associations in the communities of De Grau (Les Terre-Neuviens Francais +1 709 644-2050), La Grand'Terre/Mainland (Heritage de l'Ile Rouge +1 709 642-5254 & Association regionale de la cote ouest +1 709 642-5254), and L'Anse-a-Canards/Black Duck Brook (Chez les Francais +1 709 642-5498).

Get in
Stephenville and Stephenville Crossing are the points of entry on Routes 490 and 460, called The French Ancestors Route, when driving from the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). From the Trans-Canada, it is about 40 km to Stephenville, and then about 6 more km to the isthmus and Port au Port.

Get around
There is no other option than to drive or take a chartered bus.

Do

 * Abbott's Walking Trail
 * Abbott's Walking Trail

title: Port au Port Peninsula