"Old Town" And "Let It Snow"

by Gemma Cleanslate

After all that shopping and running from market to market and visiting at Calas, I needed some peace and quiet but in areas still celebrating the season. There are so many Christmas and winter sites in Second Life. Check the winter destinations for those I will never get to write about.

Old Town is a region with a story,  http://oldtownkaraoke.com/.  There are many venues and of course in this season the one to visit, photograph , and have fun at is Winterland. Bekks (Jks Beck), the designer of the region has  everything you need to have a terrific time here. There are activities going on during the week and she refers to the area as a work in progress.

I took my horse Thunder so did not have to rezz a horse, but you can. Or, take a turn on the skating pond that doubles as a venue for parties. I saw that the Arctic Express passes through here too.

Along the roads there are sites for photographs with friends both inside  buildings and out ,with hangout venues. This is a region to be enjoyed all during the year since Winterland does not disappear. Take your time checking out the area. I holds a lot of interactive opportunities.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Adagio%20Breeze/192/194/1201

I also took a trip over to Milly Sharple’s “Let it Snow!”, another winter wonderland.  It has a cute town square with interesting shops around and after a visit there get out into the winter snow. I found one of those new Santa “wannabes“ in front of his shack and did a little dance with him.

There are free skis and skates here for the taking and a hunt for stockings going on here too. Next to the skating pond grab a bite to eat and a hot chocolate of another drink of choice. I tried a piece of fig cake which sounded good.

Here too there are numerous sites for photographs, private dancing and just enjoying the wintery atmosphere and some cute gifts in the hunt.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Sun%20Sky/32/155/27

Gemma Cleanslate

Devon Dream and Caledon Downs

By Bixyl Shuftan

There's so many Christmas-themed places in Second Life, there's too many to write about. But we can mention a few good examples. Gemma Cleanslate has mentioned plenty, and may continue to write about winter-themed lands. But with December 25 almost here, I thought I might mention two favorite places of mine, Devon Dream and Caledon Downs.

Devon Dream is owned by Safra Nitely. Every year, she sets up a Christmas-themed display. Among the things one can do is ride a train.

In this display, it seems Rudolph is getting a little stubborn in regards to where the elf wants him to go.

 There's a frozen pond with bumper card in the shape of teacups.

Some nice relaxing scenery to check out.

And when night falls, one can see the aurora.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Devon%20Dream/77/102/23

Another place to check out is Caledon Downs in the Caledon community. Owned by Cynthia Farshore, this December "The Christmas Express" is back. You can ride it by heading to the station.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Caledon%20Downs/196/114/44

Once it arrives, you have thirty seconds to find a seat to get on. It can be a little tricky as it's easy to end up sitting on the wrong part of the seat. But it won't be long before you're off and in the air.

And you're soon at Santa's Secret Base, presumably near the North Pole.

There are things to do there, such as this sled ride. While there, one can listen to the KGYG stream, which had plenty of Christmas tunes.

 Santa and his elves are busy at work.

There's a warm, and detailed looking, kitchen area.

Caledon Downs of course is just one sim. To the north at Caledon Moors, there was a ski slope one could ski on. One could just walk up, or take the ski lift (elevator) to the top.

One can pick up skis and skates at a couple points there, midpoint and at the top. You can also teleport there from midpoint.

Getting the hang of skiing with the provided skis can be a little tricky. But before you know it, you'll be going downhill.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Caledon%20Moors/53/115/21

There's a lot more to see at Caledon, so feel free to walk around.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Bixyl Shuftan

Calas at Winter

By Gemma Cleanslate

Ty Tenk and Truck Meredith, owners of the Calas Galadhon, have again created a fairyland winter region. Every year in addition to their other gorgeous 13 regions they add an extra two for the season. When you arrive pick up the notecard with the important landmarks on it but also take a long walk or horse back ride to really appreciate the winter setting. The windlight of the region adds a nostalgic aura so try it and listen to the music.  Watch your scripts or you may take an unexpected trip.

The arrival area takes one through sparkling tunnels into the cavern that is surely Santa’s workshop, that has Santa, elves and more gifts than you can imagine in one place. After you visit Santa there head for the fun places.

I love the balloon ride that circles the entire site giving a great overview of the old and new. Of course I rezzed the  horse supplied by Tyrian Slade and visited the countryside where you will find animals and opportunities for photos. The sleigh ride is peaceful for you and your honey if you like and so is the small dance pavilion if you are looking for some privacy.

There is a brand new Train at the station there this year that is interactive. Of course the huge skating lake is in its usual place with skating balls for your pleasure.

Have a cup of cocoa at the sweet refreshment stand set up by the Calas Beanery at the side of the lake. Or relax by the bonfires set at sites along the edges too. A sleigh ride awaits you too. Down by the ocean’s edge is a spectacular statue tossing spheres of light and color into the sky.

The Pavilion this year has a new look. It is elegant and welcoming. The tree room is still there but with a different arrangement and feel since Santa is down in his workshop. The room across the way is different too but both have a roaring fire and comfortable seating  that invites one to just hang out with friends.The ambience of the regions is always enticing. Explore and relish your time there.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Sea%20Myst/184/211/2998

Gemma Cleanslate

Christmas Town

by Gemma Cleanslate

Another of my favorite shopping , skating, having fun winter places is now open. Laura Liberty creates   bewitching town on ice every winter. This is the 10th anniversary ! 

Laura has changed the facades if some of the buildings and some other sites this year. There are a multitude of shopping opportunities for anything you need. And,  she looks ahead to the next year with a spectacular New Year shop. Visit the shops to see what you still need for your sim or home decor. Check out the clothing shops . There has to be something there that you will want to wear during the holiday season. Don’t miss the Gacha area.

The skating pond, as large as a lake is inviting but the castle is my favorite tour. Hop on a couples ball or on a single and just enjoy the figure skating hud through the castle. Remember the fun trip through the Halloween house with the tour of the horror movies? This marvelous tour takes you through the old , and new, movies of the season... The Christmas story, A Wonderful Life, Frozen,  and more. Try mouse look since you don't have to worry about moving along.

Tina (tanyja Resident), her able assistant, is  usually around in the sim hiding in a Santa outfit so if you want a photo with her just ask. There are sometimes hosts who will answer questions.
Do not miss the sled ride. Hang on tight and watch how you drive that sled !! 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Townies/116/213/148

Gemma Cleanslate

More Christmas Markets

By Gemma Cleanslate

Christmas Lane by Bee Caudron of Bee Designs is another wonderful market to visit. Inside the market area and outside the sights are so cheery .She describes it as “A big  mall full of Christmas decor items in a magic place where you will feel the real Christmas spirit wherever you go.” and it is. Many artists presents their creations in the little shops. I did succumb to trying the gachas near the entrance. Watch out for all the cute critters running around.  This is another site where you must roam both outside inside the market area to see the enticing offers of winter decor. It is extensive.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Christmas%20Lane/136/153/25

If you are looking for a ‘Special ‘ Santa  ...  working Santa, a fire fighting Santa, a carpenter
Santa you need to stop off at Christmas at the North Pole. There is such a gathering of them just waiting to go to work for you  where ever you need them/ Perhaps your water region needs  a Santa to deliver gifts in a boat. Well, he is here waiting for you.

There are also loads of toys for sale here too in the elf’s store.Upstairs is the Animated Store. This is a great place to get to see the animated scene by rezzing it while you watch. There are so many animated scenes of Santa and I had a lot of fun!How about  a penguin slide! 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/StormWind/95/230/24

Some people will be having fun gatherings for the holidays. If you are looking for some really goofy decor for the area or the house check out this place, Never You Mind.  It is a delight to visit and  if one really wants to buy some of the critters to roam around and just keep you company. There are singing elves, walking cupcakes, and so much more. There is a little tipjar at the entrance where you can get a little shoulder pet for a small tip. I got a couple. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Bundaberg/181/197/23

Here is another “market” but with a purpose. The 4th Annual Winter Showcase at water Haven is open with loads of creations from clothing and some lovely art for your walls  to more decor and all for the charity, Team Diabetes of Second Life. The sponsor is Potomac Signature Homes.All the shops are filled with enticing items and there are many sheds also loaded with goodies.

Also “Scattered throughout the Christmas Lodge at the 4th Annual Winter Showcase, are pieces of Santa, after he crashed his sleigh! Grab one of the hunt huds  and ind the pieces and put Santa back together again and earn the prizes below! **Hunt huds are 250L's with 100% of the proceeds going to Team Diabetes of Second Life.**"   There are only a few more days to visit and take advantage and also contribute to the research funds. Events there everyday too.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Water%20Haven/188/126/22

Gemma Cleanslate

Christmas Markets

By Gemma Cleanslate

I love to visit the sweet little Christmas markets with their little stalls housing goods from many creators that are around the grid . The snow covered trees and ground add to the festivity of the season. I am leaving my pocketbook home and just taking my camera along.

“3D Republic's  Annual Christmas and Winter Market. Bringing together many creators from various backgrounds to bring you the joy and creation they have brought to SL. Explore the market, be sure to stop at the gift tree for your gifts!” This is a lovely market to roam through.

When they say to stop at the gift tree they mean it! There is a treasure trove of gifts under that lovely tree from the artists at the market. Don’t miss it! Next to the tree is an easel that holds a list of other Christmas regions to visit.. some of which I will write about.

Here is 3D  http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Builders%20Republic/139/141/27

The Winter Wonderland Christmas Bazaar is always  pleasure to visit. The walkways are lined with oversized snow globes that are  so lovely. ωɨԃgεт (Sahirah Hauptmann)  of Sahi Designs creates the decor found here. There is a skating pond near by and you can rezz a zippy little sled to scoot round on the ice or put on your skates and take a spin.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Andarah%20Island/209/104/22

The next stop was at Dina LaVega (Dinahel Resident) ‘s Christmas Market and Advent Calendar. This quaint market with stalls  circling a large skating pond has large and small decor for your house or  larger area to decorate . It had snow globes in several different sizes and out came my purse! The market was busy while I was there because of the lovely wares that are offered. Stop by just to admire if not shop.

Outside the market area there are more goodies for sale to decorate your region for the winter. Charming winter settings for very good  prices.  Do you need a bridge ,  of a camping site or a small pavilion?

Go take a look.   http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Dark%20Spirit/128/186/35

More markets to follow.......

Gemma Cleanslate

Winter Holiday Village

By Gemma Cleanslate

Winter Holiday Village is one of my favorite Christmas places. I think it is one of the first Christmas places I visited shortly after I arrived in Second Life. I know it is the first place I ever ice skated and there are free skates available .

It is truly  to be called a village that has its center, and many venues not to be missed outside the village itself. It sits on a magnificent lake.

First I climb the stairs from the entrance by the pond  to visit the Magic of Christmas Shop. This shop offers the myriad decorations and outfits of Mairead (Mairead Fitzgerald) who  built  this site long ago. She is gone now but her husband, Preacher (Sutra Kish) keeps her vision of the Holiday  going. She is fondly remembered and a memorial sits at the entrance to the shop. There are many gifts for visitors on the wall inside so watch for that. This shop is full of all sorts of  holiday decor. 

After my visit to the shop I like to take a tour of the roads in and out of the village to see what Preacher has changed or added.Outside the shop is a sleigh for your ride that takes you all around the lake and lets you enjoy the sparkling trees and snow covered land. There are many places to hop off as you , tree farms, the lodge and more.

Farther along the way is the ski lift that will take you high up into the mountains where there are free skis , a sled that takes you down the mountain . There are teleports around to take you to the other venues you should not miss when you visit if you want to get there more quickly.

This is a wonderful place to visit with your honey or your friends. Santa of course will be there beginning December 1 on his throne waiting to hear your wishes. His elves keep him company.

Take your time at this holiday spot . It is a great hang out spot and couples friendly with skating balls and rides for couples. The skating around the lake , through the tunnel is spectacular . Join the group and you will have so many events to attend your will be dizzy.

You know I spent some Lindens here I always do. Along the lakeside  this year there
are little shops rented by creators to entice you and I found some wonderful winter scarves .
Check out the wares from different creators.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/The%20Pins%202/158/177/24

Gemma Cleanslate