Starbucks and Target?

Originally uploaded by Kayakman.

Recently they put a Starbucks inside a Target in my area and I am still not sure what to think about it. Part of me thinks it cheapens the coffeehouse experience by changing it into a walk-through cardboard cup convenience stand. Another part of me really likes being able to shop at Target with a hot cup of good quality coffee in hand.

What do you think?

For more coffeehouse photos visit the
Coffeehouses photoset on Flickr.

Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area

SplashCast with Flickr photos.
Produced by Kayakman Media

The Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area in northern Arkansas is a pristine piece of nature that contains 10,819 acres of protected land. Within this wilderness area, there are numerous waterfalls, cliffs, steep valleys, boulders, narrow canons, caves, and other interesting places to explore. There are no official trails, so this is for serious hikers who are willing to do some bushwhacking.

Besides fantastic backpacking opportunities, the Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area also offers great whitewater kayaking in the spring months. The headwaters of the Buffalo National River can be found here. There are many class IV and V rapids in high water, as well as hair-pin turns and willow jungles. This remote section of the river should only be attempted by experts.

While this is an ideal place for multi-day trips, potential hikers and kayakers should be aware of the fact that they may encounter black bears and mountain lions. This is extremely rugged terrain with potentially dangerous animals. Take the necessary precautions when planning a longer trip and always go with others. Remember that cell phone reception is not available and the nearest hospital is more than an hours diver from any of the 5 access points. Be prepared to handle emergency situations on location.

If you like backpacking off trail and extreme kayaking or enjoy solitude for prayer and meditation, the Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area is an ideal place for you to explore.

Tallest Mountain: 2,492 feet
Tallest Waterfall: Smith Falls 71 feet

To see additional photos click on the link below:

Caribou Coffee

SplashCast with Flickr photos.
Produced by Kayakman Media

Caribou Coffee is one of the best coffeehouse chains on the market, as it offers more than just coffee. It offers a unique atmosphere that attempts to recreate the ambiance of a north woods cabin. This is proving to be a popular selling point to the suburbanites in Minneapolis and Chicago where most of Caribou’s market base is located.

Caribou brews some of the best coffee on the market, giving Starbucks some healthy competition.

Visit my other Caribou Coffee blog posts: Caribou Coffee

To see additional photos click on the link below:

Technorati Tags:
Caribou, Caribou Coffee, Coffee, Coffeehouse,

Coca-Cola BLĀK

SplashCast with Flickr photos and YouTube video.
Produced by Kayakman Media

Coca-Cola BlaK is a relatively new product from Coca-Cola that they are calling a “Carbonated Fusion Beverage,” blending together Coca-Cola and coffee. The end result is rich, sophisticated, bold, and smooth. The taste is truly unlike any soft drink on the market today. Although the flavor of the coffee is strong, there is no bitter aftertaste. According to the packaging, BLĀK has only 30mg of sodium, which is low as far as soft drinks are concerned.

Starbucks?

SplashCast with Flickr photos.
Produced by Kayakman Media

Great coffee, nice décor, but lacking personality and warmth. Is Starbucks becoming the McDonalds of coffeehouses? Is it possible to over market a good thing? What makes each Starbucks stand out from the other… what makes it unique? Has their desire for that polished and professional feel driven them to stifling conformity?

For those of us looking to an inviting coffeehouse with that indie edge Starbucks is not that place. If you are looking for a place to spend hours debating issues, playing board games, or just hanging out with your friends you will have to look beyond Starbucks.