LOCATION: Newmarket, Ontario, Canada Photo above is property of Crypto Escape Rooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : The Lost Shipwreck 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 7, 2021 🎬 GENRE : Adventure 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 Players) : 7/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-8 ppl (Recommend 4-5 ppl) 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins 💰 PRICE : CAD $30.98/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY After searching long and far you have finally found the entrance to the infamous Mad Captain’s Cave, which is said to hold great riches. The Captain has carefully laid to rest his treasure using traps but his tortured memories mean he still remains haunting the cavern. You need to get in, get the treasure, and get out, but have care as the Captain will do whatever he can to stop you from leaving… Video above is property of Crypto Escape Rooms 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The design in the space was extremely well done. It is smaller than "Below Zero" but the use of vertical space encourages players to really take in the room…and find some interesting clues and fascinating set pieces! The Captain’s first mate is your companion during the adventure and he was such a nice surprise as you begin your adventure! His careful clues provide the right amount of assistance to keep you going. This game definitely upped the challenge level of previous Crypto Escape Rooms but as more experienced players we appreciated the push. In this case, certain things must be re-used, and this created excellent “aha” moments. There was one puzzle in particular that we found thoroughly captured the theme of this experience that we really loved. This attention to theme is something I have seen in all their rooms to date. The story that is revealed as you the game unfolds shows there is so much more beneath the surface in this game. This meant a bit more reading, but our team actually loved this added component to the story. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK This isn’t necessarily a miss the mark but there is an auditory puzzle that can be quite tricky and took us the most time. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " The Lost Shipwreck " is a thrilling pirate adventure as you thwart the Captain at every turn. The theme was amazing, and the space was extremely well used with beautiful tech features and fun special effects. The puzzles really encouraged players to use all parts of the room and I felt we ended up appreciating it a lot more. I feel this game is perfect for pirate lovers and those wanting adventure. This game is a bit more challenging than the others so if you’re a newcomer don’t be afraid to use the hint system! This was the final game of the trip and it left us hungry for more. We definitely plan to come back and play Crypto Escape Rooms two other experiences! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Parking is available in front of the store in a shared parking plaza. The facility is on the second floor but there is an elevator. They currently have four other rooms available, " The Extraction " (review), " The Lost Shipwreck " (review), " Kilgore Cabin ", and " The Cursed Temple ". You can rent out their lobby for celebrations and meetings, which offers table seating and a projector. In the back of the lobby is a photo-booth set up to take victory photos after your games that include stylized frames of the room of your choosing. A selection of tabletop escape rooms games are available to purchase as well. Photos above are property of Crypto Escape Rooms (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Crypto Escape Rooms for offering us a media discount for our tickets to this game. Although a media discount was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #JillianRaymond #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #CryptoEscapeRooms #Adventure #Ontario #Canada

LOCATION: Orlando, Florida, USA Photo above is property of The Escape Ventures Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Neighborhood Watcher 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 25, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $35.99 - $42.99/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY It's that time again for a sleepover at the neighborhood watch! Gathered with other kids from the group, you're all invited to spend the night and revel in the evening's festivities at the leader's house. This comes as a relief to your parents, especially with a kidnapper on the loose. While they tirelessly search for the missing children, you're free to enjoy a carefree evening at the trusted leader's home. So, make the most of the night and soak in the fun, because, surely, nothing sinister could be lurking in the shadows of this house. Or could it? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE T he game kicks off with an engaging interaction between the game master and players, drawing everyone deeper into the immersive world. The game masters skillfully embody their characters, weaving the narrative with just the right amount of suspense to captivate players throughout the experience. As the story unfolds, we found ourselves immersed in improvisational moments that added to the enjoyment of the game. While not explicitly stated, the aesthetic of the game exudes a nostalgic late 80s or early 90s vibe. Stepping into the room, it immediately becomes evident what kind of sleepover adventure awaits. Puzzles seamlessly integrate into the storyline, featuring classic Hasbro board games and vintage Nintendo 64 cartridges. The set design and wall paneling evoke the ambiance of a grandparents' house, adding to the authenticity of the experience. The attention to detail in recreating this era truly shines through, making the game a standout experience. The logical progression between puzzles flows smoothly, allowing for an immersive and enjoyable gameplay experience. Throughout the game, we encountered several surprises cleverly hidden within the storyline, keeping even experienced players on their toes. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One aspect worth noting is that during the game, one of the characters speaks in a whisper. While this choice adds to the atmosphere and immersion of the story world, there were moments when the whispering made it difficult to hear. If you find yourself struggling to hear the character, don't hesitate to let the game master know, as they will likely adjust accordingly to ensure everyone can fully engage with the experience. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Neighborhood Watcher " is truly in a league of its own, offering an immersive experience that seamlessly integrates well-crafted puzzles, captivating scenic design, and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat. From the moment you step into the room, you're transported to the late 80s or early 90s, with every detail meticulously designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Classic Hasbro board games, original Nintendo 64 cartridges, and meticulously crafted wall paneling all contribute to the immersive atmosphere, making you feel like you've stepped into your grandparents' house. The game masters excel at setting the stage, immersing players in the world of the story with the perfect blend of suspense and improvisational moments. The logic flow between puzzles is nearly seamless, guiding players through the narrative while keeping them engaged and challenged. Throughout the game, there are surprises lurking around every corner, catching even the most experienced players off guard. Overall, " Neighborhood Watcher " offers a unique and unforgettable escape room experience that caters to a wide range of preferences. Whether you're a fan of suspense thrillers or nostalgic for the 80s, this game is sure to pique your interest and provide an unforgettable adventure. Escape Ventures has truly outdone themselves with this remarkable addition to their lineup, and it's a must-try for any escape room enthusiast. Update - February 15, 2025 Brandon and I recently played " Neighborhood Watcher ", and we'd like to contribute our our thoughts on the game. Right from the start, the game master hit us with a brilliant twist that instantly set our nerves on edge. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments of puzzle-solving providing a brief respite from the intense "acting," only for the tension to ramp up again once we completed our tasks. It was like a gripping game of "cat and mouse," with an "unknown" fate that kept us on our toes until the very end. We absolutely loved reliving our childhood dreams of being in a horror movie! P.S. The sleeping bags are incredibly soft and comfy, offering the perfect sense of "protection"! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Free Parking Lobby with games At least one player needs to be able to crawl and all players must climb stairs Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location, interview with the owners, the room(s) (no puzzle spoilers) and more: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure :   We thank The Escape Venture  for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. Update : ESCAPETHEROOMers also visited The Escape Ventures to play " Neighborhood Watcher " in February '25!! Thank you for hosting us and we had an amazing time in both of the games! #MikeSchnurr #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #TheEscapeVentures #Thriller #USA #Florida

Photo above is property of Puzzle Post Company: Puzzle Post Game: The Missed Flight Country: United Kingdom 🇬🇧 Language: English Type of Game: Puzzles By Mail 📬 Genre: Mystery Date Played: 8/31/2020 Difficulty (based on 2 players): 4/10 Size of Team: Unlimited Time: Unlimited Price: £12.99 UK/£16.99 (rest of the world) We received an envelope from the UK and it was from Lucy Kingston. She says she got a message from a friend of ours but it seems like she's being followed. So now the only way she's able to get the message to us was to put them in a series of puzzles. If we are able to crack them all, we'll be able to reveal the message. Photo above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers The envelope contained a flyer, a business card, a postcard, a menu, a coaster, a hotel memo, a napkin, a newspaper article and a flight itinerary. The clues were from various bars, hotels, restaurants, etc. It felt like they were "taking" us to different destinations and while picking up the breadcrumbs on the way. We were given a starting point in the intro letter and it seemed like the final step was to gather a code that would eventually open up a website portal to reveal our friend's message. The puzzles were not too difficult but we did like that familiar feel of an escape room. We were able to collect all the clues and were able to easily associate which clue goes with which puzzle. Moreover, the game was not linear so we were able to work on different puzzles simultaneously. If you get stuck, there are hints available by going to their website. We were able to successfully enter the code and got a very nice message from the creators. But the exciting thing about this game is that you can send a prerecorded message to Puzzle Post and they are able to upload it for you so that when your friend/family finally enter the code, they'll be able to see your personalized message! How cool is that? Now you can torture your beloved friends/family with endless puzzles and Morse code messages forever (*evil laugh*). And the cherry on top? Now we have a beautifully designed coaster that we will be able to use with our cold drink with our future puzzle adventures! (If you do decide to try this game, please remember to let them know that you heard it from" ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Puzzle Post for providing us with a sample of their game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlePost #TheMissedFlight #puzzlesathome #PuzzlesByMail #mystery #puzzle #solve

LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Photo above is property of Escape Manor Toronto Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : The Asylum 📅 DATE PLAYED : March 16, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Horror, Detective 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 Players) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : CAD $33/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY What the hell happened here? After finally finding his room, through the ghostly and decrepit halls of the hospital, you take one look around the place before realizing what your gut has been telling you this entire time... that the good Doctor has most certainly and completely gone mad. Fresh blood (barely dried) stains the operating room. The walls are splattered with the last desperate pleas of his doomed patients. The diabolical tools of his infernal work sit freshly set, awaiting their next subject. Amongst the horror, you peruse the evidence as fast as you can, working through the mad riddle of his work, hoping to find the key that might help you end this horrible experiment. But wait, did you hear that? What was that noise? Do you get the feeling that somebody is watching you? The doctor is coming, act quick, before you become his next patient... Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Escape rooms and horror are a match made in heaven. The room did a great job impressing the horror theme upon us as we entered, and they at least had me on edge the entire time we were in there. The décor was on point. Classic corrupted hospital-sanitarium scene, with a page taken of out of movies like Saw, amongst many other horror films. A giant operating table, a restraining chair, a secret passageway, mad graffiti. The puzzles were generally pretty clever and originated naturally from out of the theme. It was well designed and there was enough happening for everyone to go off on their own little mission. We never got stuck really on anything. Cool implementation of props, like the x ray reading machine, Rorschach tests, case files. The finale had a cool setup where the group is forced to make a choice, lending an extra dimension and reality to the narrative. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK Puzzles were mostly classic lock and code type puzzles, so that it was an old school kind of room, which is not bad per se, but I would love to see the room get a remake, and am very excited to imagine where they could take it. More tech-based puzzles, more gore, dimmer lighting, disturbing visuals, terrifying use of sound, anything to crank up the scare and scramble factor. Thematic use of the horror: without spoiling anything, I wish they had ramped up the tension a little more, and had a more thematic and scary ending. Punctuate the groups progression with an ever accelerating degree of horror intimating the doctors approach. They should be holding us in the palm of their hands. Players are not just there for the puzzles, its the horror theme and the fear it invokes, the terror induced by the risk of taking each and every step, which makes it such a thrilling experience. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Overall, I thought it was well done and would recommend the room. Especially if your a fan of horror-themed detective games. The room was well designed and fun to explore, and the puzzles were inventive, and suitably challenging and engaging for the average escape room player. They did a good job of inducing that element of terror in the players, a sense of being watched, of being where your not suppose to be, and of terrible horrors right around the corner, which all add up to a thrilling experience. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Paid public parking nearby Near public transit Food and beverages served, alcohol, you can even have drinks ordered to your room! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Escape Manor Toronto for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #AndrewWoods #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #EscapeManor #Asylum #Horror #Toronto #Canada

LOCATION: Orlando, Florida, USA Photo above is property of The Bureau Escape Rooms Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Possession at Haddon Heights 📅 DATE PLAYED : February 16, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Horror 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $41.99/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Unusual paranormal events have been occurring at Haddon Heights Elementary School since their class pet died. What is this malevolent entity? Your task is to summon the dormant entity to confront it once and for all... Video above is property of The Bureau Escape Rooms 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE A particularly effective mechanism that significantly enhanced our experience was the inclusion of headphones. We were completely immersed, hearing only the intended jump scares and music from the game itself. The set design was outstanding. The majority of the game took place in darkness, with only our flashlights for illumination. Despite the dim lighting, the eerie office, unsettling long corridor, and classroom were strikingly reminiscent of a real-life school. There were instances where I startled myself merely by moving around. The narrative was conveyed through the game's characters, serving as a clever method to guide us with subtle clues on what to do next. There were several interactions that gave the impression of spirits controlling our devices, sending chills down our spines. We encountered a device that revealed a solution in a manner we had not previously experienced in other escape rooms. It was always exciting to discover something new after playing numerous games. The special effect at the conclusion provided us with a truly satisfying horror experience. We left with a "smile" on our faces. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK The input device was used multiple times. The instructions could be clearer regarding what to input, as we initially wasted a hint on this issue. Communicating with the GM via an iPad diminished the immersion for us as typing took a long time from both ends. Direct communication through headphones, allowing them to assist us from the outside world, would enhance the experience significantly. Since most items are securely fastened by the creator, we were surprised by a few misleading ones, which seemed unnecessary. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? The Bureau Escape Rooms is leading the way in innovation, thrilling players with exciting new features like headphones to amplify the fear factor! From the moment we stepped into the spine-chilling corridor of the elementary school, we were immersed in horror. Our only guide was a tiny flashlight, and every shadow seemed to hide a lurking presence. The production quality was so incredible, it felt like we were living in a horror movie! We absolutely loved the game’s elements. If you're a fan of horror and mystery-solving, you're in for an unforgettable experience. But beware, I think the evil spirit is hunting for a new host! ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO There is a free parking lot in front of the facility. Keep in mind, your GPS might lead you to the front, but the parking lot is in the back. If you got to a building that looks abandoned, perhaps "travel agency" related business then you're at the right place. Huge lobby area with seating, great for large events. Both alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Photos above are property of The Bureau Escape Rooms Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location and an exclusive interview with the owner: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank The Bureau Escape Rooms for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #Horror #TheBureau #USA #Florida

LOCATION : Clearwater, Florida, USA Photo above is property of The Exit Games FL Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Pins & Needles Tattoo Parlor 📅 DATE PLAYED : November 24, 2023 🎬 GENRE : Thriller 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl) : 8/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 3-6 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 90 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $52.00/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY After years of dedicated work, you and your group have been granted the opportunity to interview for an apprenticeship with the renowned tattoo artist known as Skinz. Feeling both excited and grateful for the chance, you embark on your first day at the job, which begins with the mundane tasks of cleaning the store and ensuring everything is in order. As you familiarize yourself with the basic responsibilities expected at your level, you encounter an unexpected stipulation: no snooping around the store. This rule raises questions about what secrets might be hidden within the tattoo parlor, beyond the reach of new hires. Despite the curiosity, you understand the importance of adhering to the rules and focusing on your assigned tasks. Though the prohibition on exploration piques your interest, you remain committed to performing your duties diligently, eager to make a positive impression and secure your place in the parlor. As you delve into the world of tattoo artistry, you can't help but wonder about the mysteries lurking just beyond your reach. Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Every room in this game is meticulously designed, filled to the brim with scenic detail, Easter eggs, and hidden secrets, creating an immersive experience that transports players into the world of the tattoo parlor and its adjoining creations. Each room offers a unique atmosphere that contributes to the unfolding story, further enriching the gameplay. The game begins with an actor-driven segment, expertly facilitated by Ben, our game master, who skillfully brings the characters to life and immerses players in the narrative. His personal touch adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing the overall experience. Throughout the 90-minute adventure, players encounter a variety of challenging puzzles that require problem-solving skills and collaboration. From setting up the tattoo parlor for the day to utilizing math in puzzle-solving, the game offers a diverse range of challenges, including physical puzzles, word puzzles, and those designed to advance the storyline. As the game progresses, the theme takes a darker turn, gradually building suspense and anticipation. However, it's not until the latter half of the game that the true depth of the narrative unfolds, culminating in a cinematic moment that showcases the immersive storytelling and surprises that make this game a standout experience. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK After much consideration, nothing is needed in this section. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? " Pins & Needles Tattoo Parlor " by The Exit Games FL sets a new standard in immersive entertainment, seamlessly blending immersive theater and escape room elements to create an unparalleled experience. It's evident that the creators poured their passion into every aspect of the game, from the intricate set design to the meticulously crafted puzzles. One of the highlights of the game is its ability to capture the essence of a tattoo-themed parlor escape room, with storytelling that unfolds in a way that feels authentic and engaging. The use of the tattoo parlor theme adds a unique twist to the gameplay, setting it apart from other escape room experiences. While the game immerses players in a vibrant and dynamic world, it's important to note that the use of language may not be suitable for all groups. The actors and game masters thrive on the energy of the players, adapting their interactions accordingly. While some groups may prefer a more restrained experience, others can fully embrace the game's immersive qualities, including its colorful language. In the end, this experience offers a dynamic and immersive escape room experience that caters to a wide range of preferences. Players should feel encouraged to fully engage with the game, allowing themselves to be swept up in the excitement and intrigue of the tattoo parlor setting. Update - December 19, 2024 Brandon and I played " Pins & Needles Tattoo Parlor " during Thanksgiving '24. The GM's introduction was excellent, drawing us into the game even before it officially began. From the start, the puzzles provided a satisfying and unconventional challenge. The hidden elements throughout the game were all "Aha" moments that we savored even after the game. Despite the abundance of decor, it wasn’t overwhelming; everything felt integral to the game, often necessary for solving puzzles. Each puzzle was meticulously designed to match the theme. I loved the moments when we had to remind ourselves "this is just a game" due to the built up in intensity. This game truly kept us on edge, with only seconds to spare, we completed this 90-minute experience. While we can't share too much here, trust me when I say we didn’t want to escape at the end and hoped the game would just continue forever. Who knows? Maybe they'll offer a 120-minute experience next! Photos above are property of The Exit Games FL ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO There are many free parking spaces right outside the facility. There's a Lobby area with seating and merchandise for purchase. This experience contains: Explicit language and imagery, Low or flashing lights, Light physical activity, Ominous environments Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location, interview with the owners, the room(s) (no puzzle spoilers) and more: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank The Exit Games FL   for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. Update : ESCAPETHEROOMers also visited The Exit Games FL to play " Pins & Needles Tattoo Parlor " in December '24!! Thank you for hosting us and we had an amazing time in both of the games! #MikeSchnurr #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #TheExitGamesFL #Thriller #Florida #USA

LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Photo above is property of Escape Manor Toronto Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Wine Cellar 📅 DATE PLAYED : March 13, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Horror, Mystery 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 Players) : 5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : CAD $37.50/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY As a wine connoisseur you have eagerly been waiting for an invitation to the famous Sir Arthur Bradford’s Winery. Yes there have been rumours going on surrounding the infamous recipe but what is the harm? Along in the wine cellar you get any idea though…search the cellar and uncover the secrets behind this recipe. There is that strange warning his employee left you though: discover the truth before HE discovers you. 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Set design was detailed and really helped build ambiance and theme. I felt like I was in a real wine cellar - the barrel wall was my favourite! The cohesiveness of the puzzles and clues really worked in sync - everything had an importance and could be tied back to something. I like how they flowed into each other so you never felt things slowed down. There are two levels of difficulty available that allow variety for different experience levels. I liked how it added additional puzzles and physical elements to the game. The room makes good use of space and encourages you to keep exploring rooms. I liked the aha of realizing something from a previous room helped the current room! 🧩 MISSED THE MARK For experienced puzzlers a lot of puzzles are ones you have seen so you can move through puzzles pretty quickly. Initially we were not told about the different levels of difficulty so we recommend asking to ensure you’re playing at the level you want. The twist of the room was easily anticipated so the reveal at the end isn’t that surprising. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Overall, if you’re looking for a solid escape room experience with a bit of a spooky vibe this game delivers! I loved the space of the room, the smoothness of the experience, and the build up! I feel new players will feel challenged while experienced players could easily do this with an enjoyable glass of wine (did I mention Escape Manor allows you to order drinks into the room?). Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Paid public parking nearby Near public transit Food and beverages served, alcohol, you can even have drinks ordered to your room! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location, an interview with the floor manager, the room(s) (no puzzle spoilers) and more: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Escape Manor Toronto for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #JillianRaymond #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #EscapeManor #Asylum #Horror #Toronto #Canada

LOCATION: Toronto, Ontario, Canada Photo above is property of Escape Manor Toronto Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝    ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Cabin 13 📅 DATE PLAYED : March 13, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Horror, Mystery 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 5 Players) : 6/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 4-8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : CAD $37.50/ pp ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY When your childhood friend reaches out to ask you to help clear out his recently deceased grandmother's cosy cabin to sell it, you think it will be a perfect weekend vacation. Yet as you walk up to the door you feel something darker is afoot…and then Alex changes. You have one hour to save Alex or lose yourself in the process. Can you figure out the incantation in time? 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE Once again Escape Manor NAILED the set design to help create a truly eerie set. The use of light especially was tailored to the players and there were fun things to uncover all around the rooms. The use of a live actor was brilliantly done in the room. They respond to player interactions and really help make the experience as they vanished and turned up in the strangest of places. I also appreciated their creepy help when we lost our whiteboard marker. The puzzles made good use of the set and props that created fun aha moments when we clicked together. There are also some red herrings to ensure you cannot guess. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK There was one puzzle we unknowingly guessed the answer to by fiddling with a prop. I feel like the clue to do something wasn’t fully clear. I would have liked to see a bit of a note letting players know there will be flashing lights in the room for those with medical needs. That said the live actor is very responsive and caught on quickly to suit our player experience. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? Overall, I love a spooky game and this game had it in spades. I was scared to go into dark spaces and always looking over my shoulder while uncovering puzzles. If you loved haunted experiences, beautiful set designs, and a great example of a live actor in the room, check this room out! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO Paid public parking nearby Near public transit Food and beverages served, alcohol, you can even have drinks ordered to your room! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Check out our YouTube video for a sneak peek of the location, an interview with the floor manager, the room(s) (no puzzle spoilers) and more: Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Escape Manor Toronto for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #JillianRaymond #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #EscapeManor #Horror #Toronto #Canada

Photo above is property of Beadle & Grimm's Company: Beadle & Grimm's Game: Murders at Karlov Manor: The Case of the Three Blade Knife Country: USA 🇺🇸 Language: English Type of Game: Tabletop Games 📬 Genre: Mystery Date Played: February 7, 2025 Difficulty (based on 6 players): 7/10 Size of Team: 1+ Players (Ages 14+) Time: Unlimited (Approx. 60-120 Mins.) Price: $49.99 🆃🅷🅴 🆂🆃🅾🆁🆈 Three murders have taken place that have stumped the Ravnican Agency of Magicological Investigations (RAMI). Lead Inspector Tam Sennic has reached out to you and handed the case file to you, hoping for your assistance. As a junior detective, this might be the mystery that can jump start your career. Are you ready to bring a killer to justice? Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 ❞🅻🅾🅾🅺🆂❞ Folding open the package, we find a lot of organized notes to what looks like 3 murders, each with interviews, suspect list and more. There is also an additional envelope for Stage 2 that states not to open it until told to do so. Some other stand out items are the map of the tenth district and the beautiful Ravnican Agency of Magicological Investigations (RAMI) badge. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅶🅰🅼🅴 🅿🅻🅰🆈 The game rules were impressively thorough, taking us step by step on how each stage works and when to proceed to the next one. A complete checklist of documents for each stage was also provided. All of this is helpful for beginners or anyone new to these types of games. From there, we were directed to the introduction note, which welcomed us as junior detectives in the Ravnican Agency and pointed us to what to look at first. One standout item was the RAMI badge, a solid metal collectible that would make a nice display piece afterwards. The badge also integrated with the Pinfinity app, which utilized AR technology for hints, code cracking and where we would submit our solutions to continue. This was a clever piece to make the game more interactive. The highlights of the game were how well designed the documents were with the posters, map, artwork and police case file notes. It was packed with Ravnican lore. We had one player who plays Magic: The Gathering and specifically the Murder at Karlov Manor set, who enjoyed the references and easter eggs sprinkled throughout. One downside of the game is the amount of reading involved. With our 6 players, we found it challenging to keep track of all the information as there were many documents and details to manage. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🆃🅷🅴 🅿🆄🆉🆉🅻🅴🆂 The game had a few basic puzzles and ciphers for those who enjoy decoding. The bulk of the challenge was the deduction and making connections through the various documents. The first stage required us to find the suspect who had the opportunity to commit the murders. However, with so many notes and documents to dig through, we would recommend a white board or something large enough to share notes for everyone to see. Using the RAMI badge was where hints were provided. Though simple, they were direct in what key information to look at to progress in the case. One aspect that seemed unbalanced was the pacing of the stages. The first stage took us almost 2 hours to complete while the second one took about 15 mins. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🅲🅻🅾🆂🅸🅽🅶 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂 " The Case of the Three Blade Knife " was a detailed, lore-full mystery, hidden in the high quality documents, that needed to be unearthed and connected. Careful deduction and attention to details was needed to solve this difficult case. With 6 players, we found it difficult to keep track of everything. We would recommend no more than 4 players, though 2 players would be ideal. This game was excellent for a rainy day with a few hours to kill. Rather than reading a book, you can immerse yourself in the lore of Ravnica. You don’t need to know anything about Magic: The Gathering for this game but fans of Ravnican will appreciate the connection and small details. As a bonus too, the RAMI badge is a beautiful piece to cosplay with or just keep around and display after you have solved the case. This game is currently sold out, but support their new projects on Kickstarter! (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure : We thank Beadle & Grimm's for providing us with samples of the game. Although a complimentary experience was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #MatthewLui #AtHomeGames #TabletopGames #PuzzlesByMail #OneOffs #Mystery #BeadleandGrimms #USA

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other on our thrilling 7-day Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the stunning new Princess Sun in February 2025! The highlight of our journey? The incredible food, of course! If you're wondering which restaurant to choose, which dish will tantalize your taste buds, or if you're simply eager to feast your eyes on some mouthwatering food photos, then this blog is your ultimate guide! With our Sanctuary Club room, we had access to the Signature Restaurant on Deck 7. Occasionally, the menu resembled offerings from the regular Horizon Dining Room, but there were special evenings featuring lobster and escargot without additional charges. Typically, these items require an extra fee in regular dining rooms or specialty restaurants, so be sure to inquire about these special nights—we experienced two during our 7-day cruise. Below are some sample photos of the meals we enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Signature Restaurant: The Sanctuary Club , open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, offers appetizers at various times throughout the day. Additionally, there is a consistent menu featuring complimentary food items available for order while you relax by the pool and enjoy the sun. The fries and fruit plate are particularly recommended. The Sanctuary Lounge only offers a selection of small snacks and desserts. We encourage you to enjoy the complimentary open bar available from 5-7 PM daily. Please note that there are certain restrictions on the types of free drinks offered, so we recommend inquiring with the waiter for more details. If you have a drink package then this doesn't apply to you. We explored the new concept on the ship, The Eatery , located on Deck 9. It features several food stations, akin to buffets on other ships, where servers assist you in obtaining your selections. We particularly enjoyed the salad bar, although we also indulged in some less healthy options. The shrimp chips at the Asian counter were a personal favorite. The delightful homemade chips, available only in the afternoon between lunch and dinner, are highly recommended. Additionally, the American Diner offers a similar experience with fewer options but also less crowding, which may be advantageous if seating is a concern. For late-night snacks, you may explore the availability of "grab and go" boxes in the Eatery or visit the International Cafe on Deck 9, which offers a delightful selection of sandwiches and cookies. We also experienced a complimentary room service breakfast one morning, which was delightful as we enjoyed the ocean view and the sea breeze while savoring a cup of hot coffee. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of milk options available, which are not offered at the Eatery. Let's now move on to specialty dining, beginning with our favorite restaurant onboard. This establishment truly surprised us, as we typically consider sushi as our last resort on a cruise due to concerns about the freshness of the rice and fish. However, Kai Sushi by Makoto on Deck 8 exceeded our expectations. We utilized our perk upon first boarding the ship to book this restaurant, which was complimentary for us, though it typically costs $45 per person for the omakase. This nine-dish experience featured exceptionally fresh fish and innovative flavors, which delighted us. Dishes featuring the bluefin toro were among our favorites. The next restaurant we tried, highly recommended by numerous reviews, was the esteemed Crown Grill on Deck 7, a staple on all Princess cruises. Unfortunately, this choice did not meet our expectations. The steak was notably dry, the food arrived lukewarm, and there were significant delays in service. Additionally, I experienced a severe stomachache following the meal. Although the cost was $45 per person, the restaurant was generous with appetizers, sides, and desserts, providing extra portions. The shrimp cocktail stood out as the highlight, but it is available at various other locations on the ship. Initially, we considered experiencing the hot pot offering on board, as it is not commonly available on cruise ships. However, after reviewing the menu and portion sizes, we concluded that they did not justify the price. Consequently, we decided to try Umai Teppanyaki on deck 8. One of our primary motivations for choosing Teppanyaki was the garlic fried rice. We find that Teppanyaki can be unpredictable, as the quality largely depends on the chef. Unfortunately, our experience was average. While it was not poor Teppanyaki, it certainly does not rank among my top five experiences. The portions were generous, but the flavor was somewhat bland. This meal was priced at $45 per person. The Catch by Rudi on Deck 7 was the final specialty restaurant we visited on this ship. The pricing is also $45 per person. It ranks as our second favorite, just behind the sushi restaurant. Our only issue with this establishment was the lengthy wait time. The waitress was gracious enough to allow us to order additional appetizers while we awaited our meals. Although the lobster was enjoyable, I wish I had chosen a different dish, as it tasted quite similar to what I had at the Signature Restaurant. Our preferred dish was undoubtedly the Tales of Citrus. On a future visit, I plan to order either the catch of the day or one of the fish dishes. All the dishes were exceptionally fresh. As we did not have any meal packages, we were hesitant to explore the lesser-known establishments such as Alfredo's Pizzeria, Sabatini's, and O'Malley's Irish Pub . If you believe any of these venues merit a visit, please feel free to inform me. I plan to have a dining package upon my return on the Sun cruise in 2026, and I will certainly update this blog with additional dining options. We chose not to visit The Butcher's Block by Dario due to its meat-centric menu, which lacked variety. Similarly, Love by Britto seemed overpriced given the available dish options. We also decided against attending the magic show dinner " Spellbound " based on feedback from fellow cruisers who mentioned that the food quality was subpar and the performance was average. If you consume a significant amount of alcohol, the cost might be justifiable. I am interested in the afternoon tea experience though, although I was surprised to find that there is a charge for it, as it is typically offered as a complimentary event on other ships. Some extra tips: For those who appreciate fine dining, opting for accommodations towards the mid or aft sections of the ship will provide quicker access to the majority of the restaurants. Guests with access to the Signature Dining room are advised to enjoy lobster night there. In specialty dining venues, consider exploring other menu options. Establishing a good rapport with the managers at the Signature Dining room may allow you to request lobster or escargot on evenings when they are not featured on the menu. Specialty dining restaurants typically allow guests to order an additional appetizer or dessert, so feel free to inquire if you're undecided about certain menu items. The complimentary coffee offered on this cruise tends to be quite diluted, so consider bringing your own coffee packs or purchasing specialty brews available on board. We hope these tips inspire all future cruisers! We can hardly wait to embark on the Princess Sun again (especially the amazing Sanctuary Class). Have questions? Email us HERE . Are you ready to BOOK an unforgettable journey? #CiciCao #Cruise #PrincessSun #PrincessCruises #Foodie #FoodBlog

We recently embarked on an exhilarating 7-day Eastern Caribbean Cruise aboard the magnificent Princess Sun in February 2025, and what an incredible journey it was! The cruise director informed us that our ship hosted around 4,300 passengers, with a full capacity of 5,300. On most sea days and even during port days, the pool and deck areas were bustling with activity, so we truly appreciated the exclusive experience offered by the Sanctuary Club. Our room, 17636, was a luxurious Presidential Suite with all the Sanctuary Club benefits. We decided against adding any "plus" or "premium" packages. Here are the highlights and a few drawbacks we encountered regarding the ship, our suite, and the Sanctuary class perks. In the Room The Positives: The rooms are absolutely stunning! They're far more renovated and spacious than any other Princess ships we've experienced. There's a ton of storage and closet space! The shower is phenomenal with incredible water pressure (you get a handheld and a big rain shower-head). Plus, there's a separate bathtub for a relaxing soak! The slippers are top-notch, with thick, comfy bottoms! Enjoy unlimited laundry service throughout the entire trip! We used it almost daily. Just remember, don't check the express or regular service on the laundry sheet to avoid extra charges. The complimentary service might take up to 72 hours, but we always got ours back the next day. Note that the last day to submit laundry is two days before disembarkation, as they need a day to return your clothes. We didn't use it, but I believe dry cleaning and ironing are included too! Our room featured separate sleeping and living areas (with two TVs), and we adored having two balcony entrances. It was fantastic to enjoy an outdoor breakfast with one door open for fresh air! Plus, breakfast delivery was complimentary! The Sanctuary Collection offered an on-time complimentary mini-bar setup, complete with a bottle of champagne, a bottle of white wine, a bottle of sparkling water, eight cans of soda, two beers, and four different canned cocktails. Our room attendant kindly swapped some sodas for diet options, which was great. And we had unlimited bottled water! We enjoyed two room turnover services, which was a treat since most cruises have cut the nighttime service! We had 24-hour complimentary room service, though we never used it because we were always so full by the time we returned to our room! A huge shoutout to our room attendant Stephen, who made our trip unforgettable. Check out the adorable animal friends we received each day! Room for Improvement: We wish there were more updated selections for movies and TV programs. The medallion detection is excellent because it opens the door as we approach, but it wasn't ideal for our room's location. Our room is right next to the elevator for the Sanctuary club, and we often have to wait for the elevator. While waiting, our room door would repeatedly open as it detected us, so we'd have to "hide" and quickly enter the elevator before being detected. Even though the laundry service is free, they initially charge it to your bill, and then the night manager removes the charge. I'm not sure why this process is necessary, but it created extra work for me to constantly verify that the charge was removed each time. Around the Ship The Positives: The Sanctuary Club was buzzing with excitement on this cruise, yet it remained a delightful escape from the bustling public areas! If you're aiming for a prime umbrella seat, be sure to arrive right when it opens at 8AM. But guess what? If you swing by after 4PM, you might just have the whole club to yourself! Plus, they offer an exclusive menu that's absolutely free. While it doesn't change, you'll find the best fries ever, only available here—trust us, the fries elsewhere on the ship don't even compare. There's also a complimentary "mini buffet" set up in the early afternoon. Keep in mind, though, drinks are an additional cost unless you have a drink package. Throughout the day, the eatery offers convenient takeaway snack containers. I was thrilled that I no longer needed to visit the guest services desk on Deck 6! Thanks to the APP, I could handle billing issues, random questions, and just about anything else through simple text communication. It's incredibly user-friendly, and I even have a record of our chats if I need to show it to another officer. Room For Improvement: On embarkation/disembarkation day, there isn't a special line for Suite/high tier guests. There are lines for those picking up medallions and those who already received them at home. Naturally, the line for those without medallions was much faster (although if you didn't choose the upgrade package, there's a $10 shipping fee). On port days with tender, Sanctuary Club members could gather in the lounge, and the concierge would escort us to the tender, bypassing the public line. However, when returning from the island, there was no priority line. This was our first time booking the Sanctuary Club, so we were unfamiliar with its workings. Upon boarding the ship, a waitress in the lounge (deck 15 & 16 Aft) offered my husband a drink, which he assumed was complimentary until they requested his medallion for swiping. It was later clarified that drinks are only complimentary during the 5-7PM happy hour in the lounge (though some drinks are excluded, so it's best to ask). They mentioned it's not their duty to inform guests, so always inquire. Gym classes are supposed to be included for Sanctuary guests. The first time I attended, there was no charge, but on the last day of the cruise, there was a fee. They did remove it for me later, but it's essential to check your bill to avoid such errors. The Sanctuary Club closes early (6PM), so we couldn't use the hot tub at night. The only options are the public ones (which don't have a specified closing time) and the spa ones (closing at 11PM, requiring a day or week pass). The complimentary coffee on the ship is very diluted. We didn't try the specialty ones, but it seemed they were encouraging purchases of those instead. The tea selection was also limited. The sports court and outdoor activities area were quite small. Additional Information: If you don't have access to free laundry, there are laundry rooms on nearly every floor. They provided free detergents at the time because the vending machines were out of order. Be sure to reserve your complimentary dinner (available only on the embarkation evening) at any of the specialty dining restaurants. This is a perk of the Sanctuary class. You can only make this reservation on the ship, so head straight to the concierge desk in the Sanctuary lounge to book it. In fact, this should be your first task upon boarding the ship. Let the concierge assist you with booking all the specialty dining, as they have connections with each restaurant's manager. Even if your app indicates no availability for a specific date and time, they can often accommodate you. On Princess Cay island, there appears to be a loophole with the Wi-Fi service. We didn't have the Wi-Fi package, but we were able to access Wi-Fi occasionally, especially near the buffet seating area. Princess Cay is a very small area. To avoid long waits, we recommend taking a later tender (around 12-1 pm) so you arrive when the buffet opens. There are four lines, but they tend to get very long, so try to go right when it opens. Return a few hours before the last tender, as the wait can be lengthy. The tender boats are not too small (double-decker), but there are only two, so with a ship carrying a couple of thousand people, it could take a while. The sushi restaurant was the best one we tried on the ship. I'll write a separate blog with all the delicious food adventures we've savored on this ship! We hope these tips inspire all future cruisers! We can hardly wait to embark on the Princess Sun again (especially the amazing Sanctuary Class). Have questions? Email us HERE . Are you ready to BOOK an unforgettable journey? #CiciCao #PrincessSun #PrincessCruise #tips #cruisetips

This was our first experience cruising with Virgin Cruise Line, and it was a delightful surprise. As seasoned cruisers with over 70 cruises across more than 10 different cruise lines, we wanted to share why Virgin Cruise Lines gained the "Best Cruise Line" title after just one trip: The check-in process was seamless, especially if you completed all necessary steps on the app. The expansive Virgin Cruise terminal at the Miami Port was clean and welcoming upon our arrival. Without any status yet, we received a later check-in time of 4 PM. The staff promptly handled our luggage, allowing us to explore downtown Miami for a while. There are free shuttles (see photo below) near the terminal's exit that travel to downtown Miami. Alternatively, you can walk (a 30-minute uphill walk over a bridge) or take an Uber for $7 to visit Bayside Market and the surrounding areas. Your fare covers almost everything except alcohol and excursions. Gratuities, Wi-Fi (for extensive work or uploads, consider the premium upgrade, but the basic package was sufficient for us), basic non-alcoholic beverages, entertainment, gym classes, and all onboard restaurants are included. This comprehensive inclusion led to fewer complaints and shorter lines at customer service compared to other cruises. The food on the cruise was outstanding. Be sure to reserve your preferred restaurants as soon as they become available on the app to secure your desired time and venue. Walk-ins are possible on the ship, but you might have to wait. The food was incredibly fresh and always accessible. They even provide fruits and snacks in containers for you to take throughout the day. I'll have to write a separate blog about the food at the different restaurants. Here are some photos of my favorites: 4. The ship offers numerous enjoyable activities, allowing you to choose what matches your interests. We had a great time playing trivia and participating in gym classes. There is a wide variety of board games, and there's even an arcade room with classic arcade games, all available for free! Additionally, private karaoke rooms are available for booking. It's important to reserve gym classes as soon as you board the ship, as they fill up quickly. 5. Virgin's Bimini Club was incredible. Upon reaching Bimini, you can take advantage of the free trams that transport you to the club. It's best to visit a bit later to dodge the crowds. The club also offers complimentary food. Returning later will help you avoid the rush and the wait for the tram back to the ship. My only complaint is the presence of numerous flies around the food area. 6. The buffet stations are always available for drinks. The gym features a UV water filtration system, so be sure to bring a water bottle. The gym remains open until late, offering both indoor and outdoor workout areas. The jogging track is also quite remarkable. 7. In addition to the regular entertainment shows, there is a special show on the ship called "It's a Ship Show." This show includes dinner and is free, so be sure to book it early. 8. The ship is beautifully decorated throughout. The rooms are very spacious and offer plenty of storage. You can transform your bed into a sofa during the day and back into a bed at night. The ship is consistently kept very clean, and the well-being of the guests is a priority. 9. We thoroughly enjoyed the different "special" events such as "Scarlet Night", "PJ Party", and "Stargazing Nights". Be sure to pack your outfits for these events! 10. Getting off the ship was easy and smooth. You can even have brunch before departing. It was quite relaxing, and the terminal is fully equipped with advanced technology. Customs use facial recognition, so there's no need to wait in line to exit. We would be absolutely thrilled to cruise with Virgin Voyages again soon! We're eagerly hoping they'll introduce more itineraries since we've already explored all the current destinations. However, the incredible food and exceptional service alone are enough to bring us back without a second thought! #CiciCao #VirginVoyages #ValiantLady #CruiseReview #Cruises

Photos are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Geography: Prince Edward Island (PEI), a province of Canada Population: Approx. 518,00 people Currency: Canadian Dollar; Currency Converter Best Time to Visit: No bad time We made our way from Halifax and drove to Prince Edward Island (PEI) which was about a 3 hour drive. One of the 2 ways to get on the island by land is to take the Confederation Bridge, a modern day marvel in engineering. The bridge is 2 lanes wide (one lane each way) and spans 12.9 kilometers (8 miles). Opening back in 1997, the experience was wild, especially since driving up onto the open bridge, you cannot see the land on the other side. As we passed through, each side of the bridge was just open water as far as the eye could see. The trip heading toward PEI is free but coming back to New Brunswick is $50.25 for a standard vehicle. If you are driving towards PEI, this is a must do (and the easiest way to get across). Lloyd Inman Memorial Park Heading out to Lloyd Inman Memorial Park, we went to the beach. The lovely red sand was a sight to see. The fun part is that as the low tide brings the water out, there is so much to reveal from tide pools with hermit crabs, snails and other fun sea creatures. With the tide out, we were able to walk out into the ocean 200 hundred yards with the water barely coming to our waste. We spent a couple of hours there, just picking at the sea creatures and wading in the warm water. Anne of Green Gables: The Musical " Anne of Green Gables: The Musical " is a musical based on Lucy M. Montgomery’s famous book of the same name that put PEI on the map. Having first opened in 1965, it was performed every year until 2019, earning it the Guinness World Record for “Longest running annual musical theatre production”. In 2022 however, it was announced that it would only run every other year from then on. The show was running only 3 days a week so we ended up watching the Monday evening show since that was what worked for us. The show was not packed with about half the floor filled but allowed us to stretch out a bit. We were very impressed with the production and show for what we believed was going to be more of a community show. It had an impressive set and lots of catchy songs that we were humming on the way out. This was a professional production with lots of great talent. If you end up watching the musical, don’t think that it exempts you from reading the book if you haven’t. To be able to condense the musical into 2 hours (with a 20 min intermission), a lot of the storylines had to be blended together. The show still held its own and is something that needs to be checked out. Victoria by the Sea As we drove into Victoria past an old lighthouse, one thing we noticed was how small the town was. Made up of just a few city blocks, this was mostly a small cute tourist town. Here you could rent a kayak to hop into the water or a few small eateries on the dock. Walking through the couple of blocks that looked more touristy than homes, we found a few stores that held some gems like a chocolate store where we stopped for a small latte and some delicious seafood shaped chocolate to go with it. There was also a small store where the owner was an older man, who was a jack of all trades, selling hand crafted pottery, CDs of music he wrote and potato soap, which was an interesting PEI souvenir that we saw everywhere. This was also where we stopped for some oysters, which provided us with some variety. You could also check out a small lighthouse to learn about the area and climb up to the second floor to get a higher view. Cavendish Beach Cavendish is one of the main summer towns on PEI where tourists and families would come to stay. Full of different activities for families, this is also where all things Anne of Green Gables is. Here you can visit the Green Gables Heritage Site, where Lucy Maud Montgomery would visit her cousin and grow up nearby with her grandparents. All this being the inspiration behind her “Anne of Green Gables” stories. On top of all that, other attractions in the area include Shining Waters Family Fun Park, a Ripley’s Believe or Not museum, Cavendish Beach, Cavendish Beach Adventure Zone and more. During our day trip out here, the places that we visited were Room Escape Cavendish, the Cavendish Beach, Avonlea Village and the Green Gables Heritage Site. Heading to the beach, this was a popular beach for families. There was just enough parking with 3 lots as we were able to snag a spot but this is one beach you would want to get an early start on. It was a good 5 minute walk on a boardwalk to get to the beach and to climb down some stairs but once we were there, there was plenty of room to wander down and find a spot to set up. The sand was white, soft and the water went out without getting too deep. This was also a supervised beach with lifeguards. For those who don’t like to get too wet, there were some trails around the sand dunes that could be explored but make sure to stay on the boardwalk as this is a National Park and the sand dunes need to be protected. We also checked out Avonlea Village, a small area that had replicas of the house and shops from Avonlea, the town in “Anne of Green Gables”. The village here mostly consisted of shops and eateries but also includes the Long River Church, Minister’s residence and the original schoolhouse that Lucy Montgomery taught at. During our visit, we made a stop at the Moo’s Outlet Factory where we could find Cow’s apparel for 50% off and more, as long as we weren’t too picky with the style. We also could not pass up an opportunity to have some Cows as there is one here as well. Green Gables Heritage Site No trip to PEI is complete without a visit to the Green Gables Heritage Site, the inspiration behind Lucy M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables” stories. Driving to the site, we walked through the building to pay for admission which also has bathrooms and a small exhibit. The fee ranges from $4.50 to $9 per adult depending on the season you go and is free for kids and youth. Stepping out the back, we were transported back to the early 1900s, where we could walk through the barn and right up to the Green Gables House. From there, we could take a walk through the house and get a feel for the time period and the layout of the house with the old fashion kitchen, bedrooms, and layout. This was Anne’s cousin's house that she would visit often but where she drew most of her inspiration for Anne of Green Gables layout. There were also a few hiking paths along the back, which was where she took inspiration for Lovers Lane and Balsam Hollow from her books as well as the Haunted Woods. We walked the 1km path for the Haunted Woods, where the tree and brush was so high that you could understand the spookiness that could be imagined. The 1km walk was a loop but there was a branch that would take you to L.M. Montgomery's Cavendish National Historic Site. There is a separate entrance fee for this location, but it contains the site of Lucy Maud Montgomery's Cavendish Home. Of course, at the end of the trip, we did have to stop at the gift shop where you can find a lot of Canada Parks swag and of course, Anne of Green Gables merchandise including her iconic hat, copies of the book as well as a refreshing Raspberry Cordial. Seven's Pinball-o-Rama Seven’s Pinball-o-rama totes itself to be Canada’s largest pinball arcade and we believe it. Located in Cornwall, PEI, this pinball arcade is pay by the hour. It costs $14.95 for one hour or you could add an additional 5 cents to play for 2 hours. This place had pinball machines from across the ages from the 50s with the flipping score reels to more modern ones. They also had a few video game cabinets too with such classics like Ms. Pac-man, Super Smash Bros., Galaga and more. Speaking with the owner, he talked about how he still had 60 more machines in storage and was looking for a larger space. To add to the feel, this place also had retro music playing, lava lamps and cheap candies that we remember from when we were kids to more modern sweets for purchase. Any video game and pinball fanatics must check it out and at such a cheap cost, well worth the time if you need to get out of the sun or rain for a little bit. Basin Head Provincial Park From where we were staying, Basin Head Provincial Park was a 1.5 hour drive and it was well worth the trip. The beach had change rooms and showers to wash the sand off your feet on the way up and down as well as a concession. There was also a fisheries museum that was closed when we were there. Basin Head Provincial Park contains what is known as the Singing Sands Beach. This is because the pure white sand has a high silica content, which causes it to sound like it “sings” as you walk through it. Though the sand did “sing” as we walked through it, we found that it sounded louder than a normal “crunch”. The highlight though was the channel that split the beach into 2 sections. The channel had a bridge to cross it, where the water was about 15 feet down and deep. There were a lot of people that used the bridge and edges to take the jump into the channel and depending on the tide time, you could float inwards, outwards or we could swim to the nearby ladder. Make sure you watch the tide and the times though. When jumping in during high tide, the tide would take us inwards towards a small beach around the corner but during low tide, we could easily be swept out to sea. This beach does have lifeguards though but still use caution. There was a lot of beach to explore here and did not seem too busy on the day we went. The water was clear and overall, a fantastic family beach to come and sit in the sand and relax. Spooky Charlottetown Ghost Tour On Thursday evening, we headed down near the water to join a Ghost Tour that took us around the historical downtown of Charlottetown. This was a family friendly tour that even my youngest who gets jumpy really enjoyed. Our host was knowledgeable, dressed the part and she had a great voice for story telling. There were no gruesome tales and some fun tales. This one only lasted about an hour but we got to see lots of sights and hear lots of stories. Definitely a ghost tour to check out if you have young kids. Additional Fun things to try out at Prince Edward Island: 2 Hour E-Bike Tour of Charlottetown The Ultimate Anne of Green Gables Private Tour Central PEI Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Tasting Tour DE’ Force Shore Excursion: Charlottetown Highlights & Delights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Birthplace of Confederation Feel Free to reach out to us with any questions! #MatthewLui #Travel #Guide #Tips #Explore #PrinceEdwardIsland #PEI #Canada

Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Here are my top recommendations for food and drinks in Prince Edward Island!! The Lobster Shack Souris, PE C0A 2B0, Canada Heading back from Basin Head Provincial Park, we had a craving for some seafood. Driving through Souris, we found a place called “ The Lobster Shack ”. Just off of Souris Beach, we parked and walked down the boardwalk into a shack. The menu was simple with lobster platters, lobster rolls, oysters, mussels and more. Anywhere else, we would not have trusted the seafood at a roadside shack but in PEI, where the ocean is just right there, we knew this was going to be a gem. There was a tank inside where we could pick our own lobster if we wanted to pick one up and take it home. In the tank there was also an 8lbs lobster if we were famished. We ended up ordering some fresh shucked oysters and lobster rolls with chips, all of which were delicious and a steal of a deal. All of which we were able to enjoy on the boardwalk by the ocean. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers COWS Creamery Charlottetown, PE C1A 1G5, Canada If you get to only visit one site in PEI, it should be the Green Gables Heritage Site. If you can visit 2, then the second one should be the " COWS Creamery ". COWS Ice Cream got its start in 1983 opening their first store in Cavendish, PEI and have expanded over the past years to opening Cows across Canada all the way to Banff and Whistler on the west coast. What stands out with Cows is their over 100 year old ice cream recipe and delicious flavors, so much so that in 2008, Cows was named No. 1 Ice Cream in the world by Tauck World Discovery, a US travel company. You can find the Creamery on 12 Milky Way (Tee hee…), which is where they make the ice cream that they ship to all their locations. Inside, you can find a self guided tour that starts with a video and lets you watch them make ice cream, while reading the fun facts of the process and the timeline of Cows history. Cows also makes cheese and butter where you can find the storage facility of their aged cheese here. Cows have their own line of clothes that consists of Cow decorated swag but their most popular designs are the pop culture cow parodies. Ranging from fun designs like “Super Moorio” to “Moocci” to “Haylor Swift”, you can find lots of fun shirt designs to take home (I have 4 shirts myself). If you cannot find one in the store that you like, the Creamery also has their own shirt printing facility that can print on demand any of the over 100 designs from the past. We pretty much had ice cream everyday on this trip and if we were within driving distance of a Cows, then it would be there. Wowie Cowie and Messie Bessie are their most popular flavors but I always lean towards cookies and peanut butter so Cookie Monster and Peanut Butter Cup Cup were always my top choices. There is honestly no wrong choice no matter what flavor you want. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers The Gahan House Charlottetown, PE C1A 1G5, Canada Stopping for lunch one afternoon, we headed to " The Gahan House ". Gahan is a local brewery on the island that makes a handful of ales, wheat beers, IPAs as well as a few other specialties like the Pineapple Sour. Though they have a handful of locations around Atlantic Canada, this was the original location, where they continue to brew their beer in the basement. You can see a lot of the tanks behind the glass windows if you head down the washrooms. This location also serves as a restaurant with an old, European pub feel. Being on the east coast, we of course need to continue eating the seafood. While most of our group ordered fish and chips, Monique and I shared a few items. First, we shared the “Half Shells/Half Pint” platter which consisted of 6 raw oysters and 2 half pints. I had the Iron Bridge which was not as dark as I was hoping but still had a good stout feel. The fresh oysters were served with cocktails sauce, fresh horseradish and a small glass of beer. All were delicious to slurp up with a variety of flavors. We also shared the fish tacos and seafood chowder. Coming from the prairies, the chowder was different from what I was familiar with. Less creamy broth, which acted more like a sauce, but plenty of flavor with a variety of seafood, mixed with potatoes. A place worth visiting for a pint and a simple meal of east coast flavors. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Landmark Oyster House Victoria, PE C0A 2G0, Canada While in Victoria, we stopped for a small snack at " Landmark Oyster House ". Inside, we sat at the bar where they had listed on the wall the 3 oysters they were offering that day. When asked too, they were able to provide us the location around the island they were caught as well as the flavor profile. Shucked right in front of us, we could taste the distinct flavors from each one. Worth a visit if you are in Victoria. Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers Additional Fun things to try out at Prince Edward Island: 2 Hour E-Bike Tour of Charlottetown The Ultimate Anne of Green Gables Private Tour Central PEI Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Tasting Tour DE’ Force Shore Excursion: Charlottetown Highlights & Delights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Birthplace of Confederation #MatthewLui #Travel #Food #Drinks #PrinceEdwardIsland #Canada

LOCATION: Orlando, Florida, USA Photo above is property of Escapology Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 📝   ETR DECODER 🔑 GAME : Haunted House 📅 DATE PLAYED : February 16, 2025 🎬 GENRE : Horror 🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 2 ppl) : 5.5/10 👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS : 2-8 ppl 🕒 LENGTH OF TIME : 60 Mins. 💰 PRICE : $44.99/ pp (Min. 2 ppl) ☎️ BOOKING TYPE : Private 🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED? : Yes 📖 THE STORY Centuries back, Edward Mulberry constructed Mulberry Manor for his family. In 1871, Edward and his children were viciously killed there. Since that time, anyone who enters has faced the same grim end. As the sole surviving Mulberry heir, you inherit the property, fully aware of its sinister past. Despite the foreboding ambiance, you pursue your fortune. Once inside, the terrifying tales turn into your reality. Will you manage to escape or become the manor's next casualty? Video above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers 🎯 HIT THE BULLSEYE The set design was amazing! The moment we stepped into the mansion, we were instantly enveloped by the "haunted" atmosphere. It felt like there was a presence lurking in the shadows, tracking our every move! The sound effects and jump scares were expertly aligned with the storyline's atmosphere. At one particular moment, upon opening a door, there was a palpable hesitation to advance into the dimly lit hallway. During the game, there might be a need for one brave soul in the group to step up and be the champion. We enjoyed that decision-making moment. The game featured a distinctive prop that was unlike anything we had encountered before. Although it may have appeared in a movie, we were impressed by its implementation. It was fascinating to observe the prop's "reaction" to our actions within the room. The balance between providing some backstory through character narrative and not overdoing it was excellent. The game flow was really smooth in terms of puzzle design as well. 🧩 MISSED THE MARK One of the props didn't clearly reveal the answer, making it very challenging to see what was lighting up in the dark. We eventually had to brute force that puzzle. Perhaps that equipment could be adjusted, as it is a cool item and very fitting for this game. The ending seemed a bit abrupt. Although we completed the ritual, we thought it would be interesting to hear an explanation from the voice of a spirit in the house. This way, we would know the ritual was complete, and we wouldn't have been surprised when the game master entered. 🏹 TAKE A SHOT? This game is likely my favorite among Escapology's creations. The exceptional set design, realistic environments, detailed decor, props, and sound effects crafted an immersive game setting. The captivating storyline is rich with twists, perfectly blending puzzle-solving with thrill. The inventive props and challenging puzzles demand teamwork and creative thinking, promoting camaraderie. We left feeling exhilarated and are eagerly looking forward to Escapology's future projects! Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers ℹ️   ADDITIONAL INFO Street parking with meter or garage near by Lobby area with seating and games Merchandise available for purchase Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers (If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from " ESCAPETHEROOMers "!) Disclosure :   We thank Escapology Escape Rooms (Orlando) for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever. #CiciCao #IRLescaperoom #EscapeRooms #Escapology #Horror #Florida #USA