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PIRATE TREASURES AND TALES IN PORTLAND
Visit the Portland Science Center and find out what happened to the infamous Whydah, a pirate ship that sank off Cape Cod 300 years ago, filled with treasure from more than 50 captured ships. “Real Pirates: An Exhibition from National Geographic’’ runs until this fall (no end date yet), and showcases more than 200 artifacts from the 18th century pirate ship, which was located by underwater explorer Barry Clifford in 1984. See treasure chests full of gold coins, jewelry, and “state-of-the-art’’ 18th century weapons, such as cannons, pistols, and swords. The exhibit also offers a look at the history of pirating, from New England to the Caribbean and beyond, and of the people involved, including 11-year-old John King, the youngest-known pirate aboard the ship. The ship sank April 26, 1717, during a treacherous nor’easter. 866-822-4780, www.portlandsciencecenter.com.
BOSTON HOTEL OFFERS KIDS’ ADVENTURE PROGRAM
Check in to the Mandarin Oriental, Boston, and your kids can catch their own plush lobster stuffed animal, snack on a sea life-inspired cookie creation, and pore over a Boston treasure map that showcases must-see kid-friendly spots throughout the city. The hotel’s Mini Mate kids adventure program directs people on a self-guided tour to the city’s historic landmarks and attractions, including the Public Garden, where you can float on a swan boat; the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, where you can “dump’’ tea into Boston Harbor; and Frog Pond on Boston Common. Then find a treasure at the secret “x’’ that marks a spot, somewhere inside the hotel. Rooms start at $595 and include complimentary use of cribs, high chairs, strollers, Diaper Genies, and child-size bathrobes and slippers. 617-535-8888, www.mandarinoriental.com/boston.
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NEW WALKING TOURS OF LONDON
Explore favorite hangouts of old pirates and artists, and get a taste of Indian food during two new walking tours of London. Eating London has launched a new 2.5-hour guided walk, called Brick Lane-Flavors of India and Beyond, that lets participants sample their way through nine restaurants in “Banglatown,’’ a London neighborhood that showcases South Asian food and culture (cost: $36 per person 12 and under, $48.50 13-18, and $58.65 adults. The 4-hour London Docks-Historic Pubs and Classic Grub Tour takes adults to popular hangouts visited by pirates, thieves, and artists, including the city’s oldest riverside pub. Walk through quiet residential areas with cobblestone lanes and old warehouses to glimpse stunning views of London’s skyline ($100.75 per person). www.eating europetours.com.
DOGGIES DINE IN STYLE AT FLORIDA HOTEL
Stay at one southwest Florida resort and your canine friend can indulge in grilled filet mignon and veggies, bacon-flavored boneless wings, and other mouthwatering menu items. The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, which welcomes dogs up to 45 pounds without a fee or deposit, has launched a new menu that’s geared to pooches. Your furry friend can choose other lip-smacking favorites such as the peanut butter surprise appetizer, chicken bowl with rice and veggies, and berries and bacon dessert. Dogs can dine with owners at the resort’s dockside bar and grill, The Nauti Mermaid, or enjoy room service. The hotel’s Heavenly Pet Treatment includes complimentary use of dog bed, floormat, and food and drink bowls. Room rates start at $137 per night. Doggie dishes run $7-15 (apps), $19-$39 (entrées), and $10 (desserts). 866-716-8108, www.westincape coral.com.
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YUMMY MEALS AND MUNCHIES FOR ON THE GO
Pack a snack or meal for your next trip that’s healthy and nutritious, and made by a company that values long-term sustainability. Patagonia Provisions makes portable, easy-to-prepare snacks and meals that are all organic and produced by regenerative farmers. Grab a banana, red raspberry, or apple hot cereal mix made with certified-organic whole grains, buckwheat, and fruit; buffalo jerky from American bison that roam and graze freely on the open prairie; tasty fruit and nut bars with almonds and Inca berries, apricots, or mangos; savory grains with mushroom or kale and Kamut khorosan wheat; and meat- and dairy-free soups, including red bean chili, green lentil, and black bean. Our favorite: Wild Lummi Island pink salmon caught in reef-nets in northwest Washington state using an ancient selective-harvest technique. Meals and snacks come ready to serve or just add hot water, so work perfect on the go or in your hotel room. Available at Patagonia on Newbury Street, or online. Most snacks and meals $6.50, except buffalo jerky ($10) and pink salmon ($12 for two 4-ounce packages). 888-221-8208, www.patagonia provisions.com.
KARI BODNARCHUK