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TheSpot

Health

Achieving Great Heights – Montco

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot

Doesn’t it seem we get inundated with gym commercials right around the holidays or beginning of summer?  You could be watching your favorite series and Chuck Norris and Christie Brinkley pop up with the latest exercise equipment to get you fit and in shape.  When it comes to fitness, we have so many options to choose from.  How many of us think fitness involves a gym and monthly fee?

After researching what our region has to offer, rock climbing was something you probably heard about or perhaps did it once or twice.  The Gravity Vault was something we wanted to experience first hand and see what it was really about.  It was easy to make plans with two locations, Vorhees and Radnor, in our area.  We visited the Radnor location to discover more.

The location is tucked away in the woods with a wooden mini bridge to get to the entrance.  Upon entry, a large open room greets the visitor.  For a first timer, the room and simulated cliffs can seem daunting.  Luckily  we were able to purchase a day pass and an instructor to explain how it all works.

At the start, you must sign a waiver.  After the paperwork is completed the instructor is then  ready  to give you an initiation.  According to the website, they offer Top Rope Climbing, Lead Climbing, Bouldering, and Auto Belays.  If you do not have belay certification, bouldering is the only available option.

The instructor gave  a brief tutorial on the right way to initiate the climb.   If you get a little  nervous about falling, just know that  that foam mats surround the boulders.  Shoes are not allowed on the mats.  There are large open spaces with artificial boulders or cliffs.  Some have hanging harnesses and there are smaller boulders. They do have  foot grips built into the wall that are color coded to guide you on the correct path of climbing.

This was a different form of exercise which was physically exhilarating but also left an imprint of accomplishment.  For someone with a fear of heights (me) the experience was the proverbial testing the waters.  After observing our surroundings, you couldn’t help but smile watching children get excited over their achievements.  Watching little humans reach their heights excited and fearless, serves as inspiration to try something new and different.

The Gravity Vault does offer a variety of activities such as birthday parties and camp that make great family experiences.  Maybe just maybe, we’ll aim for that belay certification next time around.

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For Family

Primp & Play Family Spa

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot

We recently visited Primp & Play on 16th and Locust to see what they were all about based on a tip from a good friend who happens to be a busy mom.  If you don’t know about this, then it is my duty to inform you.  It is a brilliant concept and the time we spent with the owner, Tara Murphy and her daughter Teagan made it all the more charming.

So what exactly is this magical concept?  Moms get a little primping and pampering while kids get to play.  Genius right?  Tara has thought of all the little “extras” that only a busy mom herself can think of.   Tara started her business in 2015 and sadly closed during the pandemic.  Tara pivoted like many other small businesses and went virtual to stay afloat.  Today, business is picking up again and Tara, along with her daughter Teagan, know how to remind parents as well kids to have fun in our busy lives.

Several rooms within the space are set up for mommy and daddy time while the kids can play.

Some of the services Primp & Play have to offer are manicures and pedicures for both adults and children.  The spaces are large and colorful filled with tools and resources for kids to create.  Let the imagination run wild.   Guests can draw, paint, or throw glitter into the air if you feel.   Tara even rents the space out for private parties.  There is even a table set aside for mocktails and mimosas for special occasions.

There is no stone left unturned to make the parent and child experience extraordinary.  Attention to detail is stellar at the same time you can’t help but feel relaxed and secure.  Tara and her adorable daughter Teagan make a winning combo.  Mom or Dad can enjoy  some well deserved pampering and children can take an art class – worry free!  We say that you can’t put a price on that.

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For HerHealth

A Sweet Way to Wellness and Better Health

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot

Trends in wellness and beauty are perpetually evolving and advancing.  From the ancient Egyptians to the ancient Romans, thermal springs, mud baths, and ointments are as ancient as civilization. 

A new method of wellness has appeared showing to be  scientific as well as cerebral.  Himalayan salt caves, in the last few years, have  gained popularity.  We recently visited one to find out why.  First however, what are the health benefits of visiting a salt cave?  Respiratory Health, Better Sleep, and Skin Health are the main themes here. 

So where did the concept come from?  According to the Salt Therapy Association website, Salt Therapy was first developed in Poland in 1839 by Dr. Feliks Boczkowski.  After studying salt miners and improvements to their respiratory ailments, he went on to develop a health facility devoted to salt therapy. 

What exactly is a salt cave?  Today, wellness spas dedicate rooms made of Himalayan Salt and or include salt lamps.    How can salt rooms actually work towards health benefits?  Halogenerators release salt particles in the air at a comfortable temperature and absorb irritants and toxins allowing you to breathe better.

So to discover more about these health benefits, we visited The Salt Cave in Newtown, PA.  We paid for an hour session to experience for ourselves this new phenomenon.  Prior to booking the appointment, we were advised to drink lots of water as you may feel thirty even for a day or two after.  We were led  to a salt room with low lighting and lounge chairs.  The room really added to other worldly ambiance.  Think of galaxies and the universe.   At the start of our session, our instructor gave a short tutorial on what the experience would entail.  A box of tissues was available for nasal drainage that was expected.  As an allergy sufferer, this was much appreciated.  Although we went for the basic salt room session, they did offer a session plus reflexology.  Being this was our first visit and not sure entirely of the experience, adding  reflexology to the package would make it a much holistic experience.  Nevertheless, after one of hour of breathing comfortably in a chair, listening to relaxing music, and feeling a light spray of pure minerals, we were satisfied.  Breathing was much better, tense muscles melted away, and yes we felt a glow.  I did not feel any type of excessive thirst however speaking to others, they were varied in that regard. 

Would we do this again?  The answer will be yes. We think it will be worth your while to visit various wellness spas offering salt therapies to find the best that suits your needs.  This may be a fad or it may be not.  Either way, the benefits of self care will always rise above once you dedicate prioritizing yourself.  

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For Family

Saddle Up New Jersey

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot

How many of us think the only way to see a real cowboy is to visit a cowboy state like Texas?  We’re here to tell you that you don’t have to travel that far.   Cowtown Rodeo, located in Pilesgrove, NJ,  is within reach of Greater Philadelphia and hosts Saturday night rodeos from May to September.

If you have never been, what can you expect?  Cowtown Rodeo is a ranch founded by the Harris Family and in its’ fourth generation of ownership.  Estimated to be about 2,000 acres, the principal family members run day to day operations on the ranch and continue to receive many accolades in the world of Rodeo.

Let’s get to the real fun.  The ranch has a small arena with bleacher style seating with ample parking on the lot.  The set up is that of a country fair.  Food and beverage vendors are lined up with the usual fair food.  The gift shop is a charming store full of gifts, knick knacks, and items suited for the country western lifestyle.

You can’t leave without a memento after viewing their amazing display of cowboy hats, belt buckles, fringe vests, and stuffed animal hobby horses.  Take a selfie photo in front of the giant cowboy boot.  If you are more of a people watcher, then just observing locals in their rodeo best in western wear makes it that much more fun.

Cowtown Rodeo is a treasure for Americana.  It’s no wonder that this family friendly event draws in parents with baby strollers, kids and their hobby horses, and general spectators circling the grounds in chaps and flashy belts.   The cherry on top is just sitting in the stands watching the rodeo stars and horses show off their best exhibition.  Don’t forget to grab yourself a bag of Original Cowtown Peanuts and just enjoy the show.

The website recommends purchasing tickets online and each Saturday the show begins at 6pm.

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EatFor Family

Old World New World

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot

The South 9th Street Italian Market in Philadelphia is undoubtedly one of the stand out neighborhoods in the country.  Many big cities across the U.S. contain a Little Italy section or area dedicated to the history of immigration.  Many of the businesses are generational spanning over several decades.

What makes the South 9th Street Italian Market special?  Let’s take a little walk down history lane.  By historical accounts, the Market was founded by Antonio Palumbo, an Italian immigrant who opened a boarding house for other immigrants in the late 1800s.  Shortly thereafter, businesses and an outdoor market sprang up.  Such businesses were butchers, cheese shops, and bakeries offering the highest quality products.

Today many of these shops remain the same family started from previous generations.  Butchers, seafood purveyors, cheese shops, and world class bakeries proudly advertise their establishments going strong for over a century.  The South 9th Street Italian Market was put on the map when it was immortalized in the film Rocky.  The fictional character is seen running down 9th Street which has come to represent the grit and toughness of Philadelphians.

What is 9th Street like today?  Simply known as 9th Street to locals, the market extends from Federal up to Fitzwater.  The outdoor market still exists by diverse ethnic groups as well as restaurants, taquerias, and specialty food stores.   You can put all of those establishments  on your list and make a day trip out of it.  There are tours available that will not only explain the history of the Market, but will make local stops to sample some of the world’s best specialty shops.  Pick up some cheeses from around the world at Claudio’s and Di Bruno Bros.  Find out why Sarcone’s bread is so good that restaurants have it flown across the country.  Pick up a pastry from Isgro’s that are so heavenly, they personally attended to the Pope during his stay in Philadelphia.  Have dinner at the historic Ralph’s Italian Restaurant that now holds the title of oldest Italian restaurant in the country.  Of course, we can’t forget the annual Italian Festival held each May which in recent years saw the return of the grease pole.

Plan your visit in the spring, around the holidays, or on a beautiful summer or fall day.  There is always something to see, something to do, and  something to eat.  See history 100 years in the making and make it a part of your history.

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Eat

It’s Wine O Clock Somewhere

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot
Kelsey Knight on Unsplash

How many of us flip through travel magazines or pause online at a web page of France or Italy promoting a vineyard or exotic wine tour?  How many of us stop in a state store and go for a bottle of California chardonnay on our way to a party?  There have been some local wines produced in Pennsylvania that have been spotlighted in the past.

In the last few years, New Jersey wineries have become a one stop destination for wine and social gatherings.  According to the NJ.com, New Jersey is the seventh largest wine producing state in the country.  Furthermore, the climate is ideal for various varietals in winemaking.

After visiting several vineyards  in South Jersey, there are three that we spotlighted.  Cape May Winery,  Autumn Lake Winery, and Renault Winery.  Each was distinct in their own right.  Even better, is that there are many to choose from no matter what the season.

Is there anything better than going to a vineyard by the beach?  Cape May Winery is a pleasant locale with vineyards, outdoor dining, and informative classes just a few miles from the beach.   The host of our wine class taught us various notes with taste and smell.  He also showed us  the differences between red and white.  Cheese and fruit boards make the perfect complement to a day of tastings.

Autumn Lake Winery, located in Williamstown, is on a gorgeous plot of land that I highly recommend getting together with your besties for some Instagram worthy memories.  Tables and firepits are available for reservation. The menu has good options for light fare but I would suggest ordering their delicious pizza.  Local acoustic musicians certainly add to the ambience.

Third on our list is Renault Winery.  Renault became the local winter favorite due to the Winter Wonderland theme they made popular.  Horse and carriage rides, ice skating and their own resort offers a variety of activities.  Our waiter was young and very knowledgeable about the history of the founder, Louis Renault.   One of the more unique fun facts we learned is that Renault Winery is one of the few establishments in all of the United States that can call their sparkling wine champagne.  A designation is only reserved for producers of grapes in Champagne, France.  Today, the resort continues to expand and have bigger plans.   Now that is something we can toast to!  Until then Cheers, Salute, and Grub trinken!

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For Family

The Future of Art: Wonderspaces

by TheSpot
written by TheSpot

Philly has always been one of the pivotal centers in the art world for many years.  Of course the Museum of Art houses classic works of art and sculptures matching other world class cities.  In recent years, the Barnes Foundation has become a focal point of attracting tourists to our city just to view the works of Matisse, Picasso, and Cezanne.

We came across two innovative and look to the future spaces for art.   Wonderspaces bills itself as Extraordinary Art that is interactive and immersive.  Museum of Illusions Philadelphia, takes a different spin, literally, on the definition of art.

Wonderspaces is a futuristic look on art exhibits.  What context is futuristic?  Upon entry, the first wall we came across is a chalk board.  Pre-set sentences such as “Before I die, I would like to_____” inviting the attendee to write down in chalk their hopes and dreams.  There is something warm and emotional in reading and writing those dreams.   Beyond the wall are separate rooms or spaces.  One room you can sit on a bench with virtual binoculars that takes you on a visual journey to outer space.  Another room is a wall of blank notepads where you are invited to write down your favorite song and a special memory. 

Museum of Illusions Philadelphia is a kaleidoscope of perceptions.  The various exhibits and rooms are designed to challenge your perception vs. reality.  Rooms such as the Anti Gravity Room, Rotated Room, and The Vortex Tunnel test your brain’s functions like never before.  You may feel like you’re upside down or turning 360° while completely standing on a flat surface. 

Two examples of innovative and exploratory spaces to stretch your mind, question your perceptions, and experience art in 2022 and beyond.  The future of art is here and it’s happening in the City of Brotherly Love.

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