Valentine Town and Isle of View

By Gemma Cleanslate and Deaflegacy

Valentine day is approaching quickly. Sweethearts are looking for gifts and places to visit before or on that day to be ready. I  took a look to see places where one could find everything you want . My first visit was to Valentine Town that is the creation of Laura Liberty of Townies.

Laura stays on top of the holidays that people love to celebrate. To not miss all her offerings join the Townies group.

What a sweet and lovely venue Valentine Town is. The cute shops are so filled with anything and everything you could wish for. The clothing goes from cute and funny to gorgeous gowns in the Valentine mode but can be worn anywhere at any time.

Across the way the other shops have all kinds of decor and even dinner tables for the special romantic dinner. Candy boxes , cakes and other treats. Bouquets and cards..and banners to carpets. How about  a hot air balloon to take a long ride over the grid. It is all there and so much more! Go see.  As in the Christmas village there is the Make your own card offering with directions

For enjoyment and entertainment there is a delightful dance floor with dance balls.  For the crowning glory there is a Tunnel of Love. Settle into the boat with your honey and glide through the tunnels and around the region on the canal.  I ran into greenbeangirl and tina (tanyja Resident) co managers of the sim for Laura hanging out at the entrance to the Tunnel . There is a cute heart dartboard backpack  gift for the members of Townies. Plan an early visit to pick up your decor and clothing to be ready for the special day.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Townies/130/153/7

One place you will love to visit and spend time roaming and taking pictures is the Isle of View. Bixyl told you about the history.  I took a trip over to check that it is ready and landed at the Love Pavilion. That is ready. Gifts are available for delivery just follow the directions . There are little Hugging booths for photos.

I spied a dunking booth. It looks like perhaps there will be a dunking going on .. perhaps with some Lindens sitting above the water,, We shall see. I tried to take a walk around the lovely grounds but not sure the whole island is open yet.because I landed at home!

There is a long canal that I think will have a swan boat if I remember correctly. Well one can get to the pavilion right now at least .. Sent that gift! 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Isle%20of%20View%202/79/76/107

Gemma Cleanslate

*  *  *  *  *

When I arrived at the landing point, http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Townies/153/84/7, I found out that I arrived at a heart shaped landing point.  It is beautiful.  My next step is to go to the town, which is what I did.

I went down to the bridge, and saw a gorgeous town nearly right away.  It is colorful, and full of different houses.  I took a look around, and was impressed by what's in the houses.  What's in the houses would be a store in houses that are linked together.  You would go in one house and go to the other house through an entrance in the wall in the house.

But that's not all.  That's not what I'm really here for.  I went across the bridge again, and down to the heart shaped landing point.  I saw another building, and boats coming out it.  This must be the love boat that I'd like to try, I thought.  So I went to the building.  I got in the boat, and the trip got started.

Wow!  I'm not going to spill any detail because I don't want to give it away.  I'd like you to give it a try, by yourself or with someone, because the trip is amazing!  Every minute I spent in the boat, I did not regret it.  At one point, it took my breath away.  Wow!

For any one of you who would like to visit Valentine's Town, I would encourage you to go visit that amazing place.  The houses are gorgeous, the trip on the love boat is amazing, and so much more.  Why not give it a try?

Deaflegacy

Cape Florida

By Gemma Cleanslate

After all my winter visits to snowy cold places, I needed a short vacation in Second Life in a warm site. I was lucky enough to find a perfect region. This sim is the replica of a place I would enjoy seeing in real life right about now, Cape Florida State Park. In real life it offers all the enjoyment of beach and tropical foliage with boardwalks and trails to traverse.

 As soon as I landed at the SL Cape Florida I felt the lushness of the region. The beautiful vibrant flowers and palms everywhere relaxed me immediately. Right at the entrance, there is a teleport column giving you venues to visit. Since the famed Lighthouse was right there I climbed the spiral stairs to the top to get a view of the whole region.

Then I decided to visit the nearby beach where there are mats and towels . There were several people enjoying the sand and water. I found a nice shower to get off all the salt before I went to explore more. I stopped at an ice cream truck for a sweet treat. As I walked back into the palms along the boardwalk I saw several gazebos, pergolas , picnic areas with food on the table and dance balls for  couples  to visit , dance and talk.

I arrived at the impressive Club House. The ground floor has a welcome desk with a group inviter, a small lounge area and a shop, Apotheosis. I sat on a couch which was over a glass aquarium with numerous species of fish to observe.  Then I climbed the stairs where I found several areas: a bar , a lounge with an enormous TV and a great pool table ,and, in the final room a lavish buffet . I definitely stopped there to check out the food. In spite of the ice cream I was hungry after the time at the beach. Huge choice!

The next floor had another bar and a club atmosphere where events are often held according to the board. This floor has a large glassed floor with another aquarium below.The shows here include live singers, djs, tribute acts and more to come. I know they are looking for more acts and hosts. You can contact Chloe (ChloeElizabethGrace Resident), or Jackstir Resident, co-managers of the Club.

I asked the owner Teren Silverheart (Terenglen Resident), who is a Floridian, how long he had this region. “ this sim has been here since around September of last year. Previously I had a full sim I leased but  found it too restrictive and it did not allow me to have the landscaping I wanted. We allow people to rez here within reason if they are a group member and we hold concerts on the beach. The whole point of this is to have created a place that others can enjoy . “  Set aside a day to take a trip to this enjoyable site.

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Cape%20Florida/215/71/21

Gemma Cleanslate

Sagan Planetarium

by Bixyl Shuftan

Probably the best known astronomy-themed place in Second Life is the International Space Museum. But there are others. One notable place to learn a little more about the planets and stars is the Sagan Planetarium, high above the Aspen sim. The location is named for Carl Sagan, a 20th Century astronomer and author best known for co-writing and narrating the 1980 TV series "Cosmos."

The first room people see is the gift shop. One can grab one of a few t-shirts, a model Hubble Telescope or V-2 rocket, or a small or large orrey (a mechanical model of the Solar System). There's also a donation meter one can chip into to help keep the place going. Upstairs is where things start to get more interesting. There are models of three historical craft, Germany's V-2 rocket, the first man-made object to technically make it into space, Russia's Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, and the Hubble Telescope from the United States. Under each is a panel with some information about the historic objects.

Also on the second floor is a display of the sun and the eight planets, from Mercury to Neptune, and some of their moons. Each has panels of information in front of them. Clicking on one of the planets, one sees a cross-section. Each of the planets is unique in some way from Venus' runaway greenhouse effect to Saturn's large rings to Uranus' odd axial tilt.

There's also a panel explaining how the definition of a planet has changed. For thousands of years, humanity has known five planets other than Earth. Then with better telescopes, two more were discovered. For decades after it's discovery, Pluto was considered a ninth planet. But with the discovery of a larger body beyond it's orbit, astronomers met to agree on an official definition, and Pluto was "demoted" to being one of several "dwarf planets." This was not a definition everyone agreed with, and some still consider Pluto a planet.

The main room of the planetarium shows a model of the solar system, the planets orbiting the Sun. It's not quite to scale so the worlds can be more easily seen. One can also get the room to change from the model and play one of three shows, "Tour of the Planets," "Apollo on the Moon," and "The Moons of the Solar System."

Outside the planetarium, is a small park area. The main feature is a huge outdoor orrey that shows not only the eight planets, but also the dwarf planets Ceres and Pluto and many of the planets' moons. The planetarium is not the only place on this large platform above the sim. Beside the park area it sits in, there's a laser tag arena.

For space fans, a place worth visiting.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Aspen/210/149/3719

Bixyl Shuftan

Crystal Ski Resort and Zimminyville

By Gemma Cleanslate

Now that things have settled down after the rush of the holidays and Christmas markets and sims have closed for another year I still have my skates and skies and winter outfits out . I went looking for regions that are still with falling snow and frozen ponds and lakes to use. There are some really nice ones to explore and experience the beauty of winter.

A visit to the Crystal ski resort in the Alps has opportunities for great skiing. I  loved the ski lift that allows an overview of the snow covered sim . At the top there are free skis  and ski balls if you need them. I brought my own but tried the downhill run on the ski ball to take my time and not fall off the mountain. If you prefer, rezz a comfy sled for the run. It is a  nice soft cushioned sled to hang onto. The owner, Rick (Reece Maloney), assured me that it is always winter in the Alps here so skiing is available all the time.

Everywhere there are little corners to relax and share a hot chocolate  or something stronger. By the lovely waterfall there are dance balls for friends or lovers. The lodge is welcoming with a fire to warm you after your skiing. Or drop into the Loft Cinema and enjoy a video of your choice from the lengthy list on the screen.

I am  not too competent on a ski mobile but did pretty well on  the one I rezzed there . Try it. All in all this region offers lots of fun activities and one can rent a lodge and stay for a few days if you like. There is a shop with some really fancy ski outfits for both male and female. I met the designer,  Almut Brunswick, wandering around in one of her suits! I always take my horse for a ride in the snow too. Have fun.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Alps/194/31/22

My next trip took me into Zimminyville.  This is another lovely winter sim with roads to roam and an extensive lake for ice skating. The first thing I did there was to hop into the hot air balloon that does a narrated tour of the region from  above and points out the various hot spots not to miss when back on the ground.

There are rentals here also but loads of public places to visit and enjoy. The owner, Curfax Zimminy, told me it would stay in winter garb until about April. I took my horse for a ride on the snowy roads to view the buildings .

Stop in at the barn by the side of the road . It looks like someone is getting ready to host a great picnic.

 I stopped into the drive in  movie theater which is showing "City of Angels" and picked up some popcorn at the refreshment stand. Perhaps when the movie is over they go to the barn for eats. There are many opportunities for photos all around this region. The railroad area is amazing. The hike up to the Ranger Station is a long one but the well worth it. A lovely view overlooking the sim awaits you at the top.

I think I will definitely revisit in spring when the sim comes into bloom.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Zimminy/68/112/21

Gemma Cleanslate

Christmas Town

By Gemma Cleanslate

Hooray! Finally Laura Liberty opened her region. Another of my favorites is a bit late this year but so good to see it arrive! If you are doing late shopping check out all the stores there  for anything you are missing. So many lovely items .

The skating here is superb and the main reason is you enter the castle on skates. This is such a special Castle ! The ride takes you back in history to the wonderful Christmas movie sounds and sights you loved and still do and then takes you around the large skating pond too when you exit.

I watched FLOPS (Lieutenant Wheatcliffe) and Pinky Cyberstar on their way through the castle having lots of fun and giggles.It is a nostalgic tour .

Santa has a throne for pictures with you so I sat down and asked for another new car. I am on his good list he said... (ha it is  Tina (Tanyja Resident, a wonderful helper to Laura) . I doubt Santa will have room in his sleigh.  Nearby there is a terrific 2019 New Year decor shop filled with balloons, celebration signs, food,in fact a whole delicious buffet and more. Stop in especially if you are planning a party.. everything you need it here .

The sledding is fun but treacherous if you are not a good sledder. I am not , but survived it and would do it again.look the entrance to sledding off the skating pond.

Stop by and make a musical Christmas card of your very own  before you leave. The directions are easy to follow. I recommend joining the group Townies if you want to see more of Laura’s towns during the year.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Townies/114/213/149

To all a Happy Holiday and many more!


Gemma Cleanslate

Calas Christmas Pavilion 2018

By Deaflegacy

“This place is beautiful and it's almost like a home!” I thought to myself when I came to Calas Christmas Pavilion.  It is beautiful and while I can't say for the others, it almost feels like a home.  I came to a  house with a note, asking people to please keep their scripts under 100 so the others can enjoy the events.  I don't have that many scripts so I went into the house.

The house felt like a home at that point.  It's not just big. It's also warm and comfortable.  There is a big fireplace in one room.  I can see a Christmas tree with presents under it.  I can see something on the coffee table, as well.  I continued to check out the house.  The house is amazing, with its own beauty.

I also heard of an ice skating pond so I went outside.  Sure enough, there is an ice skating pond.  I got on the ice skating pond and can see others skating around.  I don't blame them for being happy that there is an ice skating pond.  For all I know, the ice skating can be amazing.  I didn't put on ice skates because I'm a pony so thanks, but no thanks.  But if there is anyone out there who loves to go to skate on a pond covered by ice, I would encourage them to go to Calas Christmas Pavilion.

I'm not going to stop there.  I did go for a walk around the Pavilion.  At one point, I saw a reindeer and a snow man.  I have to stop in amazement when I saw a reindeer at the Pavilion.  It is always amazing to see a reindeer at this time of the year.

Hey, if you're in mood to visit a place that is celebrating Christmas, I would really encourage you to go to Calas Christmas Pavilion. It is a good place to be and according to the scripts notice, there will be events.  Here is the way to get to Calas Christmas :

 http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/EREBOR/172/129/28

You could also join the group to keep in touch about the events that will happen at Calas Christmas Pavilion.  I did join the group and would know when the next event would be.  So if you want to know what's going to happen at Calas Christmas Pavilion, I would really encourage you to sign up for the group, too.

Deaflegacy

3D Republic and Harambee

By Gemma Cleanslate

3D Republic, “This market is for 3D Republic designers. This years market includes Christmas and winter designs for your pleasure. Many vendors come together to bring you a variety of items to choose from to celebrate your holiday season.“ That is the  description of the mission here .

It is a delightful market filled with so many designers and so many varied items not only for your avatar but for you home.   Use the region windlight to add the ambiance of the venue. It was like shopping in the early evening with the sun setting and all the sparkling lighting in the sheds. While you are wandering around look for a snowman and pick up a nice gift! Look under the nearby Christmas trees for more gifts!  Look around also for free gifts by some of the sheds .

Again I found some lovely snow globes I just could not resist and spent more money! Listen to the tinkling of the many objects along the way and enjoy the whole experience even if you don’t shop.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Builders%20Republic/129/91/27

Harambee is long time project in Second Life, “dedicated to fundraising the IKSDP Schools in Kenya (Gwassi region, Lake Victoria) of IKSDP-Harambee Project (real-life non-profit Association).“ They have a presence where one can get loads of interesting freebies and purchase clothing and decorations at all times. Take a look at their website to lean more about their cause.  http://www.conquistaweb.it/harambee/eng/SL4kenya.htm

Right now there is a winter Charity right next door to their site. It is filled with interesting and charming items for you by some of sl’s finest designers. There are lots of gifts around too so look for them.I enjoyed walking around and getting  a flavor of African Christmas surrounded by palm trees and shrubs. There are events planned for the stage there too. Take a walk in Africa.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Imperial%20Ar/104/120/12

Gemma Cleanslate

Calas – The Hot Air Balloon Ride

by DeafLegacy

I went to Calas to check out some of the things that the place had.  One of the things that caught my attention is a sign saying, “Hot Air Balloon.”  I clicked on it.  I found myself in a place with a hot air balloon sitting on a platform.  I clicked on it and got in.  I went for a ride and I thought it was awesome.  

The entire ride covered all seven sims.   At one point, the hot air balloon did go in the water but did the flames go out?  Not at all.  It kept burning as the hot air balloon went through the water. I did get to say hello to some fish.  When we went back out of the water, we went through the air. 

The land was remarkable.  At a few points of the long journey, I took some pictures. I thought I'd take this chance to talk about this remarkable, long but interesting journey with some pictures.  The hot air balloon comes with different poses, including the 'dare' pose, which means that the person would be hanging outside the hot air balloon basket as if she is daring herself to  hang outside the basket.  I didn't fall.  There is one option that I wouldn't try, and that would be the “Opps” part. 

Thanks but no thanks.  But if there is anyone who is interested to give that option a try, go right ahead.  I'm not daring you to click on that part but it's okay to be curious. 

As the hot air balloon goes through seven sims, there are a lot of interesting places to check out while you're on hot air balloon.  That's why I definitely recommend you try the hot air balloon on Calas.  The hot air balloon is at :

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Calas%20Galadhon/178/245/22


Deaflegacy

Christmas at Creations Park and Botanica

By Gemma Cleanslate

It is always good to shop over at Creations Park because you are not only getting clothing and decor from your favorite designers you are donating to a great cause. All or part of your Lindens go to Team Fox for Parkinson’s disease research and support. Check out their video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyiiWxNguGo&feature=youtu.be). There are many events scheduled at Creation Park as the board at the landing area shows.

While you wander the many levels to visit the shops look down and find the stocking that holds a stuffer that is very inexpensive.

Then get over to the soaring castle and have the fun experience of finding the 12 gifts hidden there . They could be anywhere and watch for hidden rooms but they are not hard to find.Take a picture with Santa in the entry room. Each room is decorated so beautifully . High up on the parapet rezz a Santa Sleigh to soar over the sim . I am missing one gift...Number 11 so I have to go back!

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Creations%20Park/44/212/28

While I was doing that very ride I saw bright lights from a distance and  remembered that next door to Creations Park there is another sim not to miss. After I finished my tour and collecting all the goodies from the Castle I wandered over to Botanica.

It is so beautifully decorated . My first stop was in the Christmas Tree Hall where I found a delightful little band that performs  many choices of Christmas music that you can ask it to play.

Outside grab a pair of skates and take a turn on the pond with the elves. I saw a racing game for which the purchase price goes to the American Cancer Society so again you are donating while you shop. It looked interesting.

If you are into harps and harpsichords or other ancient musical instruments and music boxes do not miss the shop across from the Christmas Tree Hall. I succumbed and bought a new music box.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Merlin%20Gardens/198/49/24

Gemma Cleanslate

Khargo Christmas Market and Under The Tree Christmas Shop

By Gemma Cleanslate

Khargo Christmas Market at Yellowstone falls has some diverting table decorations for the Christmas meals and wreathes. I was so tempted! The Polar Bear Island would make a lovely addition to any winter sim. There is an extensive collection of winter plants for you in front of their Christmas furniture shop. Roam through the store for collectable Christmas decor.

Outside I came across a Square Snowman! Next to him stood a wonderful winter well with a visiting racoon and squirrel. Nearby I found another set of shops just outside the Christmas area that is well worth a visit.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Yellowstone%20Falls/118/180/41

 At Under The Tree Christmas Shop I found some marvelous Christmas rugs. They have the cutest elves decor in the window alcove that I really wanted! I will never make it through all these markets and fairs.

 If you like animated figures see the whole wall full in the shop. This shop is full of an eclectic collection of trees, furniture, toys and more. Upstairs there are tree skirts and stained glass art.

Outside take a walk down the hill to Tex’s Tree Farm where there is a free axe so you can cut your own. I found ღ Ϻịɱị Đạṙḷḯṇḡ ღ (Disastrophy Resident) chopping down a big one. If you visit the barn you can get a kiss from a cute puppy. Shop and Farm are located in Larson where it is always winter , right on the road where I like to visit and roam.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Larsen/32/192/110

　By the way, I finally got the Advent Calendar list. I looked for it all last week so I could post it before Advent began but no luck. Some of the stores require membership, some have hunts, some just have the calendar visible as soon as you get there. Have fun.

https://fabfree.wordpress.com/december-advents/

Gemma Cleanslate