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  • Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #398

Cary Spotlight (Travel + Discover Edition): Issue #398

Bonjour, Paris! RDU Launches Nonstop Flights to Calgary, Luxury Travel in Africa, Abbey Road Tavern & Grill Review

In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭Spotlight Hook Trivia

🧭 Bonjour, Paris! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits

✈️ RDU Launches Nonstop Flights to Calgary with WestJet in 2025

🧭 Discovering Luxury Travel in Africa with DNA Wild

🎁 13 Amazon Black Friday Deals Worth Your Time and Money

😋 Discover Cary: Abbey Road Tavern & Grill Review

😋 Dirty Snowman Baileys Ice Cream Cocktail 😋

🏛️ Support Local Businesses

Question: What was the excuse for the biggest celebration in Cary’s history?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

Discover Bee Banhmi, a local business sponsor of Cary Spotlight. They do catering, online ordering, home delivery and in-store. Great food made with quality ingredients.

“Dined with you today and had forgotten how fresh your ingredients are and how tasty the food is! Thanks for making me feel like I am visiting Family when I come in to eat. Friendly staff welcomes you in and eagerly share their knowledge about the choices to ensure you get exactly what you want/need! Love Bee BanhMi!” ~Lorraine Cross

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Bonjour, Paris! A Five-Day Adventure Awaits

Welcome to the City of Light, where every cobblestone street whispers tales of romance, revolution, and art. Over the next five days, you’ll dive headfirst into the magic of Paris—from marveling at centuries-old cathedrals to feasting on flaky croissants (yes, calories don’t count in France). Whether you’re a first-timer eager to check off the classics or a seasoned Francophile hunting for hidden gems, this itinerary is your golden ticket to experiencing Paris like a pro. Pack your sense of wonder (and your comfiest walking shoes)—this is going to be a trip you’ll never forget!

Day 1: Île de la Cité and Le Marais
Morning: Begin at the heart of Paris with a visit to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Although it's currently under restoration, you can still admire its exterior and the surrounding area. Nearby, explore the Sainte-Chapelle, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows.

Afternoon: Cross over to the Le Marais district, known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through the Place des Vosges, Paris's oldest planned square, and consider visiting the Musée Picasso to view an extensive collection of Picasso's works.

Day 2: The Louvre and Surroundings
Morning: Dedicate the morning to the Louvre Museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. To avoid long lines, it's advisable to book tickets in advance.
Afternoon: Stroll through the adjacent Tuileries Garden, leading you to the Place de la Concorde. From there, walk along the Champs-Élysées towards the Arc de Triomphe. For a panoramic view of the city, consider climbing to the top of the Arc.

Day 3: Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower
Morning: Explore the charming Montmartre neighborhood, visiting the Sacré-Cœur Basilica perched atop the hill. The area is also famous for its artistic heritage, with spots like the Place du Tertre showcasing local artists.

Afternoon: Head to the Eiffel Tower. Whether you choose to ascend or simply enjoy the view from the Champ de Mars, this iconic landmark is a must-see. In the evening, consider a Seine River cruise to see illuminated landmarks from the water.

Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles
Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the opulent palace interiors, the expansive gardens, and the Trianon Palaces. It's recommended to allocate a full day to fully appreciate the grandeur of Versailles.

Day 5: Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Morning: Wander through the historic Latin Quarter, visiting the Panthéon and the Jardin du Luxembourg. The area is rich in literary history and offers charming streets to explore.

Afternoon: Move on to Saint-Germain-des-Prés, known for its cafés and boutiques. Visit the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station, which boasts an impressive collection of Impressionist art.

This itinerary balances major attractions with leisurely exploration, providing a comprehensive experience of Paris over five days. Remember to check the opening hours and book tickets in advance where possible to enhance your visit.

Paris is calling! If you could visit the City of Light, what would be your favorite activity?

Click to cast your vote

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Official Tourism Website

  • Paris je t'aime: The official tourism website for Paris is "Paris je t'aime," managed by the Paris Tourist Office. This comprehensive resource offers information on attractions, events, accommodations, and practical tips to help you plan your visit to the City of Light.

Travel Guides

RDU Launches Nonstop Flights to Calgary with WestJet in 2025

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) will introduce its first nonstop service to Calgary, Alberta, next summer, courtesy of Canadian carrier WestJet. Beginning June 9, 2025, the new route will operate three days a week — on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays — with a flight time of just under five hours. The seasonal service will run through October 13, with tickets now available for purchase.

Calgary International Airport (YYC), a major gateway to Western Canada’s stunning Rocky Mountains, also offers U.S. Customs preclearance, simplifying the return journey for American travelers. The route further strengthens RDU’s growing portfolio of international connections, making WestJet the fifth international airline to establish or announce service at the airport in 2024.

For Triangle residents and visitors, the addition offers more than a gateway to Calgary. WestJet’s extensive network provides convenient access to destinations across Canada and beyond, underscoring RDU’s role as a key player in global travel. Read Full Report

Discovering Luxury Travel
in Africa with DNA Wild

In this conversation, Chris Coetzer speaks with Sharlene Smith, owner of DNA Wild, about the intricacies of luxury travel in Africa. They discuss the challenges of budget travel, the addictive nature of African experiences, and the diverse attractions beyond safaris. Sharlene emphasizes the importance of quality travel experiences, culinary adventures, accessibility for seniors, and the positive impact of tourism on local communities.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Value of Expert Travel Planning

  • 07:09 Diverse Experiences Beyond Safari

  • 08:00 Culinary Adventures in Africa

  • 08:57 Accessibility for Senior Travelers

  • 09:53 Inclusive Safari Experiences

  • 10:48 Community Upliftment Through Travel

  • 12:32 Authentic Interactions with Local Communities

Keywords: luxury travel, Africa, safari, culinary experiences, community impact, accessibility, travel tips, adventure, tourism, sustainable travel.

Takeaways

  • Traveling to Africa on a budget can lead to poor experiences.

  • Quality travel experiences are worth the investment.

  • Africa offers diverse attractions beyond safaris.

  • Food in South Africa is exceptional and worth exploring.

  • Seniors can enjoy accessible travel options in Africa.

  • Community impact is a key aspect of sustainable travel.

  • Traveling contributes to local economies and communities.

  • Custom itineraries can enhance the travel experience.

  • There are many off-the-beaten-path destinations in Africa.

  • Authentic interactions with locals enrich the travel experience.

Luxury travel in Africa offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural richness, and community impact, making it an investment in both personal fulfillment and sustainable tourism.

Ready to explore the wonders of Africa in style? Visit DnaWild.com to learn how DNA Wild can help you craft a personalized luxury travel experience that makes a difference. Adventure awaits—start planning your journey today!

Your Ultimate African Travel Wishlist!

What aspect of luxury travel in Africa excites you the most? Click to cast your vote

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Dream African Destination!

If you could visit one country in Africa, which would it be? 🌍 Click to cast your vote

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13 Amazon Black Friday Deals
Worth Your Time and Money

Looking for the best Black Friday deals without the hassle? Cary Spotlight has done the hard work for you, curating a list of 13 must-have Amazon deals that deliver big savings. From KitchenAid mixers to YETI drinkware and Ninja air fryers, these picks combine unbeatable discounts with rave reviews that are on sale now. Don’t miss your chance to snag these top-rated products before they sell out!

Food Bank of NC

Among the largest anti-hunger organizations in the United States, the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina works every day to provide food to people in need while advancing long-term solutions to end hunger in our communities.

Click here to volunteer or learn more

Credit: Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill Review

Hickory Tavern is one of the eateries that was nominated by the Cary Spotlight’s readers for our Discover Cary Giveaway. If you had a chance to sample their food, feel free to share your opinion below.

Check out their menu on their website: Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Reader Poll Results (Issue # 324)

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill (8 Votes)

🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 Love this place! (6)

🟨⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️⬜️ 😊😊😊 I have never been there but I might give it a try (2)

Cary Spotlight Reader’s Feedback:

“Greaat food & great customer service”

“Excellent food! Consistently delicious! A favorite location!”

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Click to share 3 things you love about this place or recommend an item people should try on their menu.

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Age Is Just a Number

It is concerning to see that there are many people that are waking up feeling tired, experiencing stiffness, and feeling the need for more support in staying healthy. Take the Thrive Wellness Blueprint Quiz.

Get recommendations designed to support your overall well-being.

Click here to take the quiz

Meet Diane Friedman, a 100-year-old powerhouse from Cleveland, Ohio, who’s showing the world that age is just a number!

Support Local Businesses: Cary Spotlight Directory

Cary, NC! Know anyone who would love a free listing on our new Cary Spotlight Directory? It's a community resource website for newcomers and long time residents. Let them know about our newest asset.

We are adding local businesses, charities and Veterans Organizations.

Dirty Snowman Baileys Ice Cream Cocktail 😋

Indulge in this creamy, chocolatey cocktail—perfect for cozy winter nights!

📋 Ingredients List:
- 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- Hot chocolate, to fill the glass
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles, for garnish

📝 Instructions:

1. Prep the Glass: Drizzle chocolate syrup inside a glass to create a decorative swirl effect.

2. Assemble the Drink: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream into the glass. Pour in the Baileys Irish Cream and chocolate liqueur. Fill the glass with hot chocolate, allowing the ice cream to start melting for a creamy texture.

3. Top it Off: Add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top.

 Helpful Notes (Recipes tips from comment section)
“olmeca chocolate tequila will work well”
“Godiva makes chocolate liqueur”

How tempting do you find today's recipe?

Click the option below to cast your vote

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The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇

Centennial! Turning 100 years old in 1971, was excuse enough for the biggest celebration in Cary’s history. Other warm-up activities included the creation of the Centennial seal and plate, striking souvenir coins, caravans to neighboring towns, and the printing of the Centennial book. The climatic week itself, May 8-12, began with an hour-and-a-half parade and featured a nightly pageant “The Unbeatable Century” at Cooper Field. Other activities included a ball, beard judging, promenades, kangaroo courts, teas, art and style shows, and singing and dancing. The celebration pulled Cary together like no other event since 1971.

Hill Road. (Source: Around About Cary, p125)

For more historical insights into Cary's development visit these resources: