My wife, Lee, loves gardens. Whenever we travel, I try to include a visit to a garden or two to make her trip more enjoyable. Thus, we have been to many gardens around the world. These are her favorites, in no special order. Many of these gardens have been featured in previous blog posts (check the archives) so I will simply list them here.  A photo album will follow.

 

      1. Longwood Gardens, Pennsylvania

 

      2. Annapolis Royal Gardens, Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, Canada

 

      3. Rose Test Garden, Washington Park, Portland, Oregon, USA

 

      4. Luxembourg Gardens, Paris, France

 

      5. Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse, Netherlands

 

      6. Cypress Gardens, Florida, USA

 

      7. Calloway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Georgia, USA

 

      8. Stourhead Gardens, England

 

      9. Andromeda Gardens, Barbados

 

      10. Humble Administrator's Garden, Suzhou, China

     Virginia is a mid-Atlantic state with a long and distinguished history. More US presidents have come from Virginia than any other state. It was extremely pivotal during the Civil War, since both the Union capital, Washington, DC, and the Confederate capital, Richmond, are very close in distance. Besides history, the state is blessed with mountains in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the east, so there are numerous opportunites for recreational activities. Here are my choices for Virginia's top ten sights. A photo album will follow.

 

     1. Monticello - Jefferson's self-designed house is one of Virginia's most popular tourist destinations. Its location, Charlottesville, is a delightful community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is also the home of the lovely, well-respected University of Virginia, also founded by Jefferson.

 

     2. Williamsburg - America's premier open-air museum captures the essence of the late 1700's in both architecture and culture. Numerous activities are planned throughout the day -- prepare for full immersion.

 

     3. Skyline Drive & Shenandoah National Park - Skyline Drive, which cuts through Shenandoah National Park, is one of this countries' most beautiful scenic drives. This limited-access highway has stupendous views from its many overlooks. Wildlife spotting is also common within the park.

 

     4. Old Town Alexandria - Just outside of Washington, DC, this delightful Colonial-era collection of buildings and streets is a delight to explore on foot. Because of its proximity to the US capital, it is popular (and a bit less expensive) as a base of operations for visits there.

 

     5. Mount Vernon - George Washington's beloved residence is just a few miles outside Alexandria (see above). The magnificent grounds have a commanding view of the Potomac River. Washington's willingness to adopt new technology makes for a very interesting visit and exploration.

 

     6. Blue Ridge Parkway- The northern extension of this long traverse through the Blue Ridge Mountains begins in North Carolina and runs through the western part of Virginia. HIstorical buildings, scenic overlooks and walking trails are available throughout its length.

 

      7. Stephen F Udvar Center - This satellite of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC, houses many aircraft and other vehicles that cannot be displayed in DC because of space requirements. Visitors can see the Enola Gay, the modified American bomber that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, the Space Shuttle, Enterprise, and the Concorde, one of the original SST's.

 

      8. Arlington National Cemetery - America's largest and most well-known military cemetery lies just across the Francis Scott Key Bridge from Washington, DC. Here visitors can witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, see the perpetual flame at President John F Kennedy's grave, and simply wander through the rows and rows of white crosses that mark the final resting place of many of America's soldiers.

 

      9. Colonial Parkway - This lovely drive connects the famous Colonial battlefield of Yorktown, the city of Williamsburg (see above), and America's first colony, Jamestown. Williamsburg has already been discussed, but Yorktown and Jamestown are also worth a visit, especially for those interested in the early history of the United States.

 

      10. Virginia Beach - This well-developed area is a Mecca for beach-lovers. All kinds of water-related activities are offered and there are also numerous day-trips available in this Hampton Roads section of the state.

 

     Other sights considered;

         Richmond

     The United States of America's capital city is a treasure trove of sights, museums, and architecture. Below is a combination walking and driving tour of the capital which includes most of the locations that a typical tourist would not want to miss. Three days is the minimum amount of time necessary to complete this itinerary.

 

                                                              Washington DC Walking/Driving Tour

                                                                   (tour begins in nearby Virginia)

       Take 395 into town via 14th St to Constitution Ave and take a left toward monuments. Park on 22nd St and view the Einstein Memorial (at National Academy of Sciences Bldg). Leave car and cross street to Mall. Visit Vietnam War Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War memorial and Women's War Memorial. Drive to Jefferson Memorial and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial (via Ohio Dr to West Basin Dr to East Basin Dr). Have supper at Old Ebbet Grill (675 15th St NW). View lighted monuments and then return to hotel.

       Drive to Mall. Park near Washington Monument. Walk to White House (cross Constitution and Ellipse to 15th St. Take White House tour. After tour, walk to Renwick Gallery to view "Gamefish". Then walk back to Washington Monument. Take elevator to top (if possible) and view city.

       Back to car. Drive West on Constitution to Arlington Memorial Bridge (South on 23rd St and around Lincoln Memorial. Park at Arlington Cemetery Visitor Center. Visit Kennedy gravesites, the Custis-Lee Mansion, and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. View the changing of the guard (every hour on the hour). If time permits, take George Washington Pkwy South to Mount Vernon. (Optional). Go to Mass or at least visit the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (take 1st St or Capitol St North to Michigan Ave to Catholic University).

      Drive to Mall and park on Jefferson or Independence Ave. Go to Air and Space Museum, then Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, then to Castle. Then cross Mall to American History Museum (on Madison, near 14th St), then East to National Gallery of Art.

      After lunch, visit Holocaust Memorial (14th St @ Raoul Wallenberg Place). Leave city via Constitution Ave and Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Bridge. Exit North on GW Pkwy to Theo Roosevelt Island parking lot (on right). Take footpath to Memorial. Upon leaving drive by Iwo Jima Memorial.

      Drive to Hains Point (East Potomac Park), just beyond the FDR Memorial to view "The Awakening". Then drive through Georgetown (Constitution Ave West to Potomac Pkwy, past Kennedy Center to M St). If time permits, park the car (finding spaces is very difficult here) and stroll the area.  Out of Georgetown, take P St East to Dupont Circle, then south on Connecticut Ave to Rhode Island Ave(left) to St Matthew's Cathedral. Then travel North on 17th or 18th Sts to Massachusetts Ave. Take a left and travel northwest to Rock Creek Park. Visit Kahlil Gibran Memorial Garden (between 30th and 34th Sts). Continue northwest on Mass Ave to the National Cathedral (at Wisconsin Ave).

      (Try to fit this in when time permits) Independence Ave (right) to Capitol vicinity (1st St). Park near Capitol - use tickets (see your Congressman or woman in advance) to gain entrance to rotunda. Cross street to Library of Congress Bldg(SE of Capitol), then walk North to Supreme Court Bldg. If time permits, walk East on Independence Ave to 7th St SE. Take a right on 7th St to Eastern Market. Get back in car and take Pennsylvania Ave NW past National Archives and Navy Memorial to 10th St. Take right on 10th to Ford's Theatre (#511). If time permits, check out Discovery Channel Store (601 F St), one block north of theatre.

     North and South Carolina have the benefits of long and interesting coastlines as well as Appalachian scenery in the western part of the states. They also have a pleasant climate, never too cold in the winters and long summers. There is history as well, since these states were among the original 13 American colonies and have participated in many of America's struggles since then. Here are my choices for the top attractions in these inseparable states. A photo album will follow shortly.

 

     1. Charleston, SC - This city which preserves much of its Southern charm and ambience, is great for walking and delightful to explore. In addition, drive to Magnolia Plantation for a look at a real southern plantation and its exquisite grounds.

 

      2. Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC - Probably America's premier residence, this glorious mansion built by the Vanderbilts, is the main attraction in this interesting city at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  

 

      3. Wright Brothers Memorial, Kittyhawk, NC - This tribute to the pioneers of air travel is set on the grounds where they experimented with and finally achieved flight.

 

      4. Myrtle Beach, SC - This well-developed area is a Mecca for beach-lovers and golfers. The many recreational opportunities in the area make it extremely popular, especially with families.

 

      5. Outer Banks Beaches and Lighthouses, NC - The narrow but lengthy ribbon of land that comprises the Outer Banks is a popular beach and fishing area, especially in the summertime. The many lighthouses and interesting little hamlets make it a fun area to explore.

 

      6. Blue Ridge Parkway - This classic American scenic highway threads it way across the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering dramatic overlooks and walking trails for visitors.

 

      7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina - This is the most visited National Park in the United States. Drive along Newfound Gap Road which bisects the park for mountain vistas; check out Cades Cove for historical relics and wildlife sightings; get a true feel for the park ecosystem by taking one of the many nature trails or hikes.

 

      8. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC - This historic fort is located at the entrance to Charleston harbor and was the scene of the first battle of the Civil War. Boats to the fort are available from the Charleston waterfront.

 

      9. Hilton Head Island, SC - This delightful community is meticulously planned and maintained. It offers great golfing and numerous water activities, as well as just relaxation.

 

      10. Charlotte, NC - One of America's great financial centers, Charlotte is well-known for it many, quality museums and cluster of nearby colleges. 

 

      The Dakotas are short on population but long on worthwhile travel sights. Extremely popular as the first "western" states seen by travelers from the east, after their boring sojourn through the midwest, these states offer national parks and even mountain (although they are really not much more than hills) scenery. Here are my choices of the best of this region. A photo album will follow soon.

 

      1. Mount Rushmore National Memorial - One of America's most patriotic and awe-inspiring places, these presidential sculptures carved out sheer granite are incredibly impressive both during the day and at night.

 

       2. Badlands National Park - Eerily beautiful and colorful, these sandstone dunes are an example of nature's paintbrush strokes. Scenic drives through the park reveal miles and miles of incredible scenery.

 

       3. Needles Highway - This fantastic scenic drive through Custer State Park and the Black Hills offers wildlife views and interesting rock formations.

 

        4. Crazy Horse Memorial - This still unfinished tribute to one the areas most famous native chieftains may eventually surpass Mount Rushmore (see above) in size if not in grandeur.

 

        5. Theodore Roosevelt National Park - Named for America's greatest conservationist president and the one who established our national park system, the envy of the world, this park features badlands and river valleys but is more remote and less visited than its neighbor to the south.

 

        6. Deadwood - This Black Hills town was notable for its wild, western atmosphere (Wild Bill Hickok was killed here), but has recently been transformed into a gambling Mecca.

 

        7. Wind Cave National Park - Strong winds formed by changing atmospheric pressure have produced the unusual formations visitors find here. Outside the cave are plains animals and great views of the Black Hills area.

 

        8. Jewel Cave National Monument - This cave system, purportedly the third longest in the world, has over 100 miles of mapped passages. A number of different tours are available with differing degrees of difficulty.

 

        9. Mitchell, South Dakota - The premier attraction here is the Corn Palace, an interesting place with Moorish architecture, made with discarded corn products. The details are actually changed each year. 

 

        10. Rapid City, South Dakota - This town is the gateway to the most popular sights of the area (Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, Crazy Horse, etc). As such, it features the traditional satellite tourist traps (some of which are actually worthwhile) often associated with the fringes of these big draws.

       This wonderful southwestern state, known as the "Land of Enchantment" possesses an atmosphere all its own. From great national parks and monuments to exciting cities and historic ruins, there are an incredible numbers of diverse opportunities for the traveler. Here is my version of New Mexico's best attractions. Look for my photo album to follow shortly.

 

       1, Carlsbad Caverns National Park - Imagine an underground cavern which is 1800 feet long, 1100 feet wide, and over 250 feet high -- this is the "Big Room" in Carlsbad Caverns. There is even a post office and snack bar in one section of the room. This most awesome underground attraction in the US also has another draw. Each evening from May to October, thousands of bats depart the cave to feast on insects. An amphitheater and Ranger talk are provided to inform visitors and answer questions.

 

       2. Santa Fe - This 400-year-old city strictly enforces building codes which enhance and accentuate its native architecture and style. Stroll the Plaza and shop for native crafts under the awning of the Palace of the Governors.

 

       3. Taos - This artist colony high on a plateau in the Sangre de Cristo mountain range is home to Taos Pueblo, one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. The two multi-storied dwellings house descendants who continue to preserve the culture of their ancient civilization.

 

       4. Chaco Culture National Historical Park - The Pueblo ruins here are extensive. Pueblo Bonito once had 600 rooms and stood four stories high. The community preserved here thrived from 850 to about 1150 AD.

 

       5. Albuquerque - New Mexico's largest city provides a wonderful base of operations for the exploration of the western part of the state, including many of the sights and locations listed here. In addition, Albuquerque's Old Town preserves examples of the way the village used to look before it evolved into a big city.  

 

       6. Route 66 Historic Highway - The classic American road which linked Chicago and Los Angeles has become a symbol of the American spirit and the urge to travel. Made even more famous by a popular television show of the early 1960's, the "mother road" has attained cult status. Even though much of the original route has been replaced by interstate highways, there are a few places where fans can still see some of its landmarks. Albuquerque is perhaps the best place for this nostalgia.

 

       7. Roswell - Roswell is the world capital of alien sightings. Everything in town revolves around strange creatures from outer space and UFO's. When a spacecraft allegedly crashed in 1947, the town residents never recovered and are still obsessed with the event. Believers flock here and hope to see their own UFO. 

 

       8. White Sands National Monument - Certainly one of the United States' strangest landscapes is found near the city of Alamagordo. Imagine acres and acres of pure white sand fashioned into dunes by the winds. Visitors can walk into the dunes but are cautioned to bring water and not travel far from park roads.

 

       9. Bandelier National Monument - Here visitors find ruins of an ancient Pueblo community, including cave dwellings and a circular village. You can take a self-guided walking tour and even return at night for a bat walk.

 

       10. Capulin Volcano National Monument - This is perhaps the nation's best example of a cinder cone volcano, rising 1000 feet above the landscape. Drive up the side of the volcano and take one of several trails into the crater.

    Utah is all about National Parks. There are quite a few of these gems in the state and other places which have not achieved that rarefied status are almost as spectacular. Geology has blessed this region with incredible canyons and other erosional features. Here are my choices of the best of Utah. A photo album will follow shortly.

 

     1. Bryce Canyon National Park - This fairytale landscape of sandstone pinnacles called hoodoos adorning vast amphitheaters of bright colors is one of America's premier national parks. Drive along the rim from overlook to overlook, reveling in the spectacular views, or pick a trail and descend among the hoodoos for an up-close and personal look at the effects of erosion.

 

     2. Monument Valley Navaho Tribal Park (with Arizona) - The classic Western scenery of Monument Valley has been featured in many vintage American films, yet its vast panoramas still stir the imagination and humble us when we consider the power and beauty of Nature.

 

     3. Arches National Park - Nowhere in the world are there more natural arches in one location than here. The power of erosion is on display everyday at this beautiful park. Take one of the many walking trails to discover hidden gems within the park.

 

     4. Zion National Park - This upside-down version of the Grand Canyon puts visitors at the bottom of a valley looking up at the sheer cliffs and interesting formations. The checkerboard mesa section of the park showcases ancient sand dunes sculpted into beautiful stone mounds.

 

      5. Dinosaur National Monument (with Colorado) - See partially excavated dinosaur bones and learn about the Jurassic Age and the changes which have taken place in this landscape since the time of these great behemoths.

 

      6. Canyonlands National Park - Here is another location where the Colorado River has gouged out a long series of canyons as this part of America was uplifted. Dramatic lookouts allow visitors to see the river winding for miles.

 

      7. Capitol Reef National Park - In this park, visitors can drive or walk along a dramatic ridge created as a section of the continent was uplifted. Another section of the park displays the "graffiti" of pioneers who participated in the great Western Expansion in America.

 

      8. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument - This huge area of canyons and buttes preserves another example of the power of erosion on sandstone. Drive along Highway 12 through the region and admire the views along the way.

 

      9. Salt Lake City - Utah's capital is a pleasant place and the headquarters for the Mormon Church (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints). The city is modern and well-laid-out. Temple Square is the main tourist stop here, where visitors can see the Mormon Tabernacle Auditorium, the Mormon Temple, the Seagull Memorial, etc., and otherwise become absorbed in this religion.

 

      10. Great Salt Lake - This vast, shallow lake is so salty that few creatures live in its water. Those who venture into the water find that they float very high in the water, due to its density.

     Bavaria is the large area in the southeastern part of Germany and the country's largest state. It is also Germany's most popular tourist area because of the many attractions available here. The capital of the region is Munich, a city rich in tourist sights and activities. It also make a great base of operations for an exploration of the entire area. Below is my list of the best that Bavaria has to offer. Realize that there are many other spots which are worthwhile, but this is only a compilation of ten. A photo album will follow tomorrow.

 

     1. Neuschwanstein - This fairy tale castle is "Mad" King Ludwig II's greatest triumph, although it was never finished. It was the major inspiration for Cinderella's Castle in Disney World.

 

     2. Munich - This classic Bavarian city is perhaps most known for beer-drinking - the first "Oktoberfest" was held here in 1810. Now the event is attended by thousands each year. Munich's Hofbrauhaus is the most famous beer hall in the world. Munich is also a city of Arts and Culture. For example, it's Deutches Museum is probably the most respected science museum in the world.

 

     3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber - This classic German village is the most popular stop on the "Romantic Road" a stretch of highway from Wurzburg to Fussen which is noted for its perfectly preserved and maintained Medieval towns, oozing with charm and ambience.

 

     4. Oberammergau - This village near the Austrian border is noted for its woodworking and also for its Passion Play, performed every ten years as a thank you for being spared during the time of the plague in Europe.

 

     5. Wieskirche - A Rococo masterpiece, this pilgrimage church in the town of Wies was constructed in the mid-1700's and is a World Heritage Site.

 

     6. Wurzburg - This city is famous for the Residenz, an ornate, Baroque palace, dubbed by Napolean the "nicest parsonage in Europe." It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1981.

 

     7. Mittenwald - This adorable village nestled at the base of the German Alps is particularly noted for its "painted houses." Even the church's bell tower has painted scenes along its length.

 

     8. Linderhof Palace - Another of King Ludwig's creations, this rather small royal residence boasts a Moorish kiosk and a cave reminiscent of Wagner's opera, Tannhauser.

 

     9. Ettal Abbey - This Benedictine Monastery and its associated church draws huge crowds because of the gorgeous Baroque interior of the church, the dramatic exterior and its setting at the base of the German Alps, near the Austrian border.

 

     10. Regensburg - This southern German city lies at the junction of the Danube and Regen Rivers. It dates back to Roman times and its Medieval center is a World Heritage Site.

 

     Other sights considered:

          Bamberg

          The Aegean Islands and Adriatic Islands of Greece are among the most famous tourist destinations in the world. Mediterranean cruises nearly always include one or more on their itineraries. The Aegean group of islands is divided into several sub-groups, the Cyclades and the Dodecanese Islands. The former include such gems as Santorini, Mykonos, and Delos, while the latter, near the Turkish mainland, include Patmos and Rhodes, among others. Here are my choices for the best of these wonderful tourist locations. A photo album will follow shortly.

 

       1. Santorini - Arguably the most beautiful of all the Mediterranean islands, Santorini's land mass is basically the rim of a volcanic crater. The towns of the island sit dramatically on the precipice of the crater rim and spill down the steep sides of the crater to the water below. The volcanic eruption which created this state of affairs occurred 1,500 years ago, and is thought by some to be the origin of the Atlantis myth. The eruption practically destroyed the entire island, leaving just the crater rim. The white-washed villages of Thira and Ia are delightful to explore.

 

       2. Rhodes - This island, very close to the mainland of Turkey, was famous as the headquarters of the Knights of St John. The village of Rhodes is a beautiful, walled, Medieval town with much to see. Its a great place for walking. The town of Lindos, to the south, is also worth a visit.

 

       3. Crete - The largest of Greece's Aegean Islands, Crete is also the southernmost and marks the boundary between Europe and Africa. Although there are a number of interesting towns and cities to explore here, the most important tourist site on the island is Knossos, the Minoan palace complex, the center of this important civilization which occupied the region from 2800 BC to about 1150 BC. Besides visiting the Knossos site, spend some time in the museum in the city of Heraklion where many of the discoveries at Knossos palace are housed.

 

       4. Mykonos - This lovely island, with its white-washed villages and blue-domed chapels, is less than 100 miles from Athens' port, Piraeus. Stroll through the charming alleys of Hora, the island's capital, checking out Little Venice and the cluster of windmills above the lovely harbor. Mykonos is also famous for its nightlife.

 

      5. Patmos - St John the Theologian was exiled to this island in 95 AD. It was here that he was inspired to write the Book of Revelation (the Apocalypse). The monastery-fortress which was erected in his honor still stands and is the major draw for cruise ships and other visitors to the island.

 

      6. Corfu - The city of Corfu, the main stop on this Adriatic island, west of the Greek mainland, is known for its three castles. The narrow, labyrinthine, cobblestone streets are pleasant to explore. It is a World Heritage Site, with its many churches, the most important of which is St Spiridon's.

 

      7. Delos - Probably the most sacred of the Greek isles, Delos was the reputed birthplace of both Apollo and Artemis. Today, it is uninhabited, basically an archaeological site and a day-trip for tourists. The majestic Sacred Way leads to the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo, with its assorted temples and other buildings. Most visitors arrive at Delos from Mykonos, by boat or caique.

 

      8. Lesvos - One of the prettiest islands, this was the birthplace of the Greek poet, Sappho, and its name is the derivation of the word, lesbian. However, it is not just for gays. The food and drinks are fabulous here and it is more reasonable than some of the other islands.

 

      9. Sifnos - Here, visitors may still be able to see the "real" Greece. Just 5 hours by ferry from Piraeus, this beauty and authenticity of this place brings people back year after year. Fantastic beaches, a clean harbor, and great food and wine make it a fun place for the entire family.

 

      10. Paros - Besides making a great hub for the exploration of other islands in the vicinity, Paros offers great beaches. Check out the interesting fishing village of Naousa.

       Colorado is a state associated with the Rocky Mountains, even though about a third of the state is really plains. But the mountains are certainly the main attraction. There are many peaks here which are higher than 14,000 feet. My wife, Lee, truly loves this state and probably would move there in a heartbeat if the opportunity arose. Here are my choices for the best of this magnificent place. A photo album will follow shortly.

 

       1. Mesa Verde National Park - The premier Native American historical site in North America, this park preserves several excellent cliff dwellings. The Mesa Top Loop Road provides access to many of the ruins and also affords overlooks for shutter-bugs. Cliff Palace and Balcony House can visited by guided tour only.

 

       2. Rocky Mountain National Park - This premier national park is noted for its incredible mountain scenery. Walking and hiking trails abound throughout the park. Trail Ridge Road, which cuts through the park, crossing the Continental Divide, has particularly spectacular views. Wildlife sightings are also common within the park.

 

       3. Pike's Peak - This famous 14,000 foot plus behemoth is famous as the inspiration for the song, America the Beautiful, and is particularly imposing due to its position along the front range of the Rockies, rising tall above the plains. It was discovered by explorer Zebulon Pike, although he never reached the summit. The Auto Road to the top offers spectacular overlooks, but is not for the faint-hearted.

 

       4. Dinosaur National Monument - This Federal monument area spans sections of Colorado and Utah, with the main dinosaur-bone viewing area just north of Jensen, Utah. Take the Harpers Corner Scenic Drive for dramatic canyon country views.

 

       5. Durango-Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad - The beauty and majesty of the San Juan Mountains, in southwestern Colorado, is revealed from the windows of this classic train which winds through a wilderness canyon enroute to the town of Silverton, 90 miles away at an altitude of 11,000 feet.

 

       6. Black Canyon of the Gunnison - A mini-Grand Canyon awaits visitors here. The gorge is deep and steep, much steeper than the Grand Canyon. Take the scenic drive along the South Rim for incredibly dramatic views.

 

       7. United States Air Force Academy - Located in the foothills of the Rockies between Denver and Colorado Springs, this beautiful campus is a delight to explore. With several static displays of aircraft and, most famously, the beautiful chapel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, it is easy to fall in love with the setting. Add the element of impeccably-dressed cadets marching across the grounds and this place becomes truly special.

 

       8. Colorado National Monument - This plateau and canyon area is extremely picturesque and offers numerous trails for the visitor. The area is located in the western part of the state, near the town of Grand Junction.

 

       9. Garden of the Gods State Park - Located just outside of Colorado Springs, near the base of Pike's Peak, this popular state park offers interesting rock formations, the result of erosion of the area sandstone. Rock-climbers are a common sight here, perfecting their techniques before heading to more difficult sites.

 

       10. Aspen - This playground of the rich and famous is noted for its upscale shopping, in the village, and its fantastic skiing in the winter. There are many other activites available during anytime of the year. Celebrity-sighting is a popular diversion for visitors.

 

       Other sights and activities considered:

             Denver

      

      New England was one of the first parts of the "New World" to be settled by Europeans, so historical places are one of the hallmarks of the region. However, there are also many natural areas and quaint small towns to interest the traveler. Here are my selections for the best of this section of the USA, the area I am most familiar with. A photo album will follow shortly.

 

      1. Boston, MA - The major city of the region is loaded with attractions for visitors of all ages. The "Freedom Trail" recalls early American History and the Revolutionary War; the city's Science Museum is one of the best of its type in the world; the life of one of America's most beloved presidents, John F Kennedy, is the subject of the Kennedy Museum, etc

 

      2. Acadia National Park, near Bangor, ME - The region's only national park celebrates the rocky coastline that is a prominent characteristic of New England. The wealth of carriage roads and trails make this an outdoor-lover's paradise.

 

      3. Waterfires, Providence, RI - This seasonal (late spring thru early fall) presentation transfixes visitors with its evocative fusion of fire, water and music. Thousands of onlookers walk along the Providence River, mesmerized by the scene of crackling braziers casting their eerie glow on the water. 

 

      4. White Mountains, New Hampshire - Although the area has become a truly year-round destination, the most beautiful time of the year here is in the fall, when the leaves change and the air is sparkling-clear with the chill of the impending winter. Take a walk along the Flume, ride the aerial tramway to the top of Cannon Mountain, or simply drive along the Kancamagus Highway.

 

      5. Newport, RI - Nowhere is the maritime heritage of this region more evident and more celebrated than in Newport, famous as a summer playground of the wealthiest Americans, a history reflected in the mansions of Bellevue Avenue. Drive or bicycle Seven-mile Drive or stroll along Cliff Walk, for first-hand views of these palatial homes, or simply visit one or two.

 

      6. Martha's Vineyard, MA - This island is close to the mainland but offers a true island experience, truly another world, with its great beaches, fishing villages and scenic landscape. Like its neighbor, Nantucket, this is an example of the real New England.

 

      7. Downeast Maine - The southeastern coast of Maine is another place to sample the quaint, New England villages which are so characteristic of the region. Towns like Ogunquit, Wells, Kennebunkport, and others, are reminders that the past is still part of our consciousness.

 

      8. Green Mountain Villages, Vermont - The state of Vermont is much more rural and less populous than the other states of the region. Yet its villages harken back to the days when the pace of life was much slower and the beautiful countryside was more appreciated. Drive along Route 100 or really along any of Vermont's roads to see pristine examples of what New England used to look like. The white churches and village greens are so common here that modernity is unusual.

 

      9. Cape Cod, MA - The cape has made incredible efforts to preserve its old New England flavor despite the incursions of the Twentieth and Twenty-first centuries which have brought hordes of tourists and bumper-to-bumper traffic to the area. As a result of these efforts, there are still quiet beaches, rural roads, and quaint villages to be found and explored. Nowhere is this more true than on the "outer cape" where wide beaches, acres of sand dunes, and classic New England lighthouses dot the landscape.

 

      10. Litchfield Hills, CT - Connecticut's contribution to the "old New England" scene is most apparent in the villages of the northwestern part of the state. They are especially beautiful in the autumn when town fairs and markets are common.

 

       Other places considered:

            Berkshires, MA

            Plymouth, MA

            Mystic, CT

            Salem, MA

            Portland, ME

                                                                        Shanghai Walking Tour

                                                   (Tour begins on Nanjing Road, well west of the Bund)

 

As a preface, just like other cities in China, blocks can be large and distances are deceptive. Again, since taxis are cheap during the day, eliminate some of the walking by taking a cab. Just prepare by having your hotel concierge write down some of your destinations in Chinese so that you can show these to the driver. Most taxi-drivers do not speak much English.

 

Walk east on Nanjing Road, stopping at People’s Square (Renmin Square). Enter at Tomorrow Square, at North Huangpi Road then wander through the park from west to east, exiting at Nanjing Road. Check out the Art-deco Shanghai No 1 Department Store, opposite the square. Continue eastward on Nanjing Xi Lu.

Before heading under the road to the promenade, stop to check out the Peace Hotel (Victor Sassoon’s Classic Hotel) (the northern building is more distinctive). Check out the lobby and head up to the roof garden (11^th floor) for great views of the Pudong.

After reaching the promenade, take the loud, glitzy Tourist Tunnel to the Pudong. Head first to the Oriental Pearl Tower, the tallest in Asia at 1535 feet. Take a close look but don’t bother to climb the tower. Instead, walk southeast along Century Boulevard to the Jinmao Tower (on your right across from Lujiazui Green), one of the five (5) tallest buildings in the world (at least for now). Take the elevator to the Observation Deck on the 88^th floor for great views of the city, especially the Bund. Also look for the under-construction Shanghai World Financial Center, which, at 492 meters (1614 feet), is the world’s 3^rd tallest building.

Retrace your steps back down Century Blvd and walk the Riverside Promenade southward for more great views of the Bund. Continue beyond the end of the promenade to the Ferry dock and take a ferry (every 10 minutes) over to the Bund.

Walk the promenade northward, stopping briefly at the Bund Observatory and admiring the views of the Pudong to your right. At the end of Huangpu Park is the Bund History Museum. From here, walk out to the street and cross the Suzhou River on the Waibaidu Bridge (which also has excellent views of the Pudong). Take a right on Huangpu Lu to the Pujiang Hotel, Shanghai’s first hotel. Albert Einstein and Charlie Chaplin both stayed here. Opposite the hotel is Russian Consulate, right on the river.

Retrace your steps back across the bridge, noticing the Broadway Mansions (another hotel) to your right. This time, stay on the right side of the street and admire the Colonial, European architecture of The Bund. Number 27 is now the Foreign Trade Building but was once the headquarters of a company that built its fortune on the opium trade. Number 23 is the Bank of China Building which offers a bit of Eastern architecture to blend with the predominantly Western theme here. At the corner is the Peace Hotel which you have already visited which extends down to Number 19. Number 16 is the China Merchants Bank with its classical pillars. The Customs House, at Number 13, was a headquarters for the Communist Party. Its huge clock is visible from afar and its bell, Big Ching, used to ring every quarter hour, but was silenced during the Cultural Revolution and replaced with propaganda broadcasts.

Number 12 is the former Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank (HSBC). Go inside and check out mosaic floor and the stunning octagonal ceiling with Italian-tile panels depicting Tokyo, New York, London, Paris, Calcutta, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. Classical figures ring the walls.

Number 9 is interesting, partially overgrown with ivy and surrounded by hedges. The Bangkok Bank is at Number 7. Number 6, with its Gothic windows and arches, was once the German-Chinese Bank. Number 3 contains the Shanghai Gallery of Art and several shops and restaurants. Number 2 is the former Shanghai Club, which once housed the world’s longest bar.

Continue southward and, just before the Shiliupu Steamship Pier, take a right onto Fuyou Road. Several blocks up, the Yu Gardens & Bazaar complex will be on your left. Wind your way through the bazaar to reach the actual gardens (Yuyuan Gardens).

After the visit, continue south to Fanghang Lu, take a right to Renming Road, then bear right onto East Hauihai Road, then right on Yunnan Road back to Nanjing Road and the starting point.

                                                                          Xi'an Walking Tour

 

Begin at the South Gate (Nanmen) of the walled city. This is the most impressive of the city’s gates which punctuate the thirty-nine (39) foot high walls. It was built at the beginning of the Ming Dynasty (late 1300’s). From here you will walk the walls (total distance is nine miles, so just sample).

After doing the wall, head north (into the Old City) on Nanda Jie to the Bell Tower (Zhonglou). To reach it, since it is in the middle of a traffic circle, take any of the underground passageways. Bells on display are from the Ming Dynasty. Go to the 3^rd floor balcony for great views. Continue one block west to the Drum Tower. It is 111 feet high and was built in 1380 AD. It marks the southern end of the Muslim Quarter.

After passing through the base of the tower, turn left down a small side street called Hua Jue Xiang. The street is lined with shops selling souvenirs. When you reach a small intersection, go left to the entrance for the Great Mosque. Wander the lushly landscaped courtyard and note the detail on the mosque doors and gates, but only Muslims can enter the Prayer Hall.

Retrace your steps back to the Drum Tower, then go south on Nanda Jie, to the 2^nd intersection, take a left, then the 1^st right onto Culture Street (Wenhua Jie). The houses here have been rebuilt in traditional Ming style.

Continue to the South Gate, where you began. If time permits, continue south on Changan Bei Road till you reach Youyi Xi Lu. Take a right to reach the Small Goose Pagoda (Xiao Yan Ta) on your left. It was built in 707 AD and when erected contained 15 tiers. It was left with 13 tiers as a result of an earthquake in 1555.

Even further a field (4 km from the South Gate)is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda (Da Yan Ta), originally constructed in the 7^th century. To get here, walk back to Changan Bei Road and turn right. Continue south to Xiaozhaidong Road and take a left. Continue past the Shanxi History Museum (on your left) to Yanta Road. Take a right to the Pagoda.

                                                                    Bangkok Walking Tours

                                                                              (Tour begins at the Shangri-La Hotel)

 

Keep in mind that Bangkok is a very large city and that walking in the city is often difficult since vendors set up at curbside and also against building walls so there is little space to walk. Also, understand that pollution from the many automobiles and tuk-tuks can make walking unpleasant. However, taxis are cheap during the day and tuk-tuks can be hired very inexpensively (although your driver may require stops at several tourist traps). Thus, walking may be substituted from time to time by riding to reduce the wear and tear.

 

Take New Road (Charoen Krung Rd) north from the hotel. Check out the famous Oriental Hotel, on the left, where Joseph Conrad, William Somerset Maugham, James Michener, and others have stayed. Continue north and bear left at the fork (you are still on Charoen Krung). Just before the intersection with Yaowarat Road, on Thanon Traimit is Wat Traimit, with its five-ton, 13-foot Golden Buddha (13^th century). Stop to see the 5 ½ ton Buddha.

After the visit, return to Charoen Krung, turn right, then bear left onto Yaowarat Rd. Take a left onto Thanon Song Sawat, then right onyo Sampeng Lane (also known as Soi Wanit 1) and stroll through Bangkok‘s Chinatown. Check out Boonsamakan Vegetarian Hall (at the corner of Ratchawong Rd) and the Pahurat Cloth Market (just across Chakraphet Rd). A detour left on Thanon Chakraphet and left again to Wat Chakrawat, which has an odd collection of buildings. Take a right onto Thanon Triphet till it intersects with Charoen Krung Rd, then turn left and continue toward the river (road becomes Thanon Thai Wang).

Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) (closed 12-1) is on this road. This is the oldest, largest, and most imposing temple in the city. The Buddha is about 150 feet long and 50 feet high, the largest in Thailand. The soles of his feet are encrusted with Mother-of-Pearl. There is a monastery here as well, the College of Traditional Medicine and this is a great place to get a massage. In the Eastern Bot of the complex are almost 400 Buddhas, carvings and bas relief everywhere, and a magnificent bronze Buddha.

Continue to the river on Thai Wong. Here you can get a great view of Wat Arun, across the river. If a water taxi at Tha Tien, the pier, is available, cross the river and check out the temple, then return. This temple is known as the Temple of Dawn and is 286 feet tall. Climb to the third terrace for great views. Just south of the wat is the Klong Bangkok Yai, a “fake” Floating Market.

Cross the river back to Tha Tien and take Maharat Rd (parallel with river) north, by the Royal Palace complex. Beyond the complex, take a right onto Tr. Silpakorn to Thanon Na Phra That. Take a left and stop at Wat Mahathat (on the left). Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic) houses a large, sitting Buddha. Here is the Center for the study of vipassana (insight) meditation.

Across from the Wat is Sanam Luang (the National Common), which used to be where public executions were held. Cross the common and turn right to reach Lak Muang, a marble pavilion with a phallic-shaped sculpture. This is the City Pillar, the foundation stone of the city (point from which all distances in the country are measured). Next to it is the Defense Ministry, with its collection of cannons, and, next to that, the Saranarom Palace, now the Foreign Ministry.

Retrace steps and walk north on Ratchadamnoen Nai Road. As you near the end of the common look to your left to see the National Museum, Royal Theater, and National Gallery. Then turn right onto Ratchadamnoen Klang. At the circle ahead is the Democracy Monument. Cross the circle and take Prachathipatal Rd north. About a mile north of the circle, you will see Dusit Park on the right at the intersection with Si Arutthaya Rd. Enter the park and visit Vimanmek Palace, “castle in the clouds“, in the northwest corner (no shorts or sleeveless shirts), the largest teak palace in the world (73 rooms). No nails were used in its construction.

Chitralada Palace (the royal residence) is adjacent to the park on its eastern side, but is not open to the public. Also look for Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall (east of Vimanmek), which has a veranda carved with exquisite latticework, and Ananta Samakhom (Royal Throne Hall).

Exit on the southern edge of the park (Si Arutthaya Rd) and turn left to find Wat Benchamabophit, perhaps the most impressive example of Thai architecture in the city. Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple) has 52 bronze Buddhas lining the courtyard. The name of this temple comes from the white, Carrara marble which forms the walls. Retrace steps on Si Arutthaya Rd toward river to Ratchadamnoen Nok Rd. Turn left and walk to its end at a major intersection. Take Mahachai Rd (same direction on opposite side of intersection). At the corner is Mahakan Fort (one of two remaining watchtowers which guarded the Old City Walls). Next to the fort, cross the Phan Fa Bridge and look to your right to see Wat Saket (it used to be city‘s main crematorium and was used to dispose of bodies killed in the many epidemics of the 19^th century), which sits on an artificial hill (Golden Mount). Notice its carved windows. Climb its 318 stairs for a great view of the city. Back on Mahachai, look across the road to see Loha Prasat (Metal Castle) Pagoda (note the 37 metal spires which symbolize the virtues needed to attain nirvana) which is within the Wat Ratchanada complex.

Continue south on Mahachai Rd, then turn right on Bamrung Muang Rd and left on Ti Thong Rd to check out Wat Suthat (on left just past the Giant Swing). Note the refined Large Wihan (main hall) with teak doors and frescoes, and the Bot (meeting hall), famous for its murals. Return to the intersection and take Thanon Bamrung west to Thanon Atsadang. Take left here and look for Wat Ratchabophit on the left. Note the Chinese ceramic tiles on the walls of the bot and the exquisite works of art on the windows and entrance doors. Next, continue south, then turn left onto Charoen Krung Road. Check out the Thieves Market, on the right just past the canal. Stay on Charoen Krung Road back to the hotel. This walk will probably take an entire day with stops at many of the temples, so be sure to schedule a lunch and perhaps several coffee stop along the way.

Bangkok Walk at Night

Exit the hotel and walk east on Silom Road (probably at least a mile). Look for Patpong 1 Road and take a left. This is Bangkok’s main “Red Light District”, parallel streets between Silom Road and Surawong Road. Stroll the area, then return to the hotel using either Silom or Surawong Roads.

Bangkok Shopping Walk

Exit the hotel and walk north on Charoen Krung Road, turn right onto Si Phraya Road to its end. Cross Rama IV Road and take Phayathai Road north to Siam Square. The Mahboonkrong Center (MBK) and its seven (7) floors of shopping is at the corner with Rama 1 Road. Plus, it is connected via skyway to Siam Square Mall, almost as big. Hidden to the rear of Siam Centre is Wat Pathumwnaram, in the Srapathum Palace complex. Taking Rama 1 Road west then right onto Soi Kasem San 2 brings you to Jim Thompson’s House, an interconnecting maze of seven (7) teak houses that the expatriate and antique collector had built to house his treasures. In the opposite direction, just east of Siam Square, at the corner of Rama Road and Ratchadamri Road is the Erawan Shrine. This incense-filled shrine is dedicated to the Hindu God, Brahma.

Miscellaneous Thoughts and Ideas:

1. Take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River - white and red Express Boats leave every 20 minutes from Tha (pier) Sathon.

2. Damnoen Saduak, the famous “floating market” seen in one of the recent James Bond movies, is 68 miles southwest of the city. Ton Kem is the biggest market there. Since the market closes at 11 AM, an early excursion is necessary. Buses leave Bangkok’s southern terminal every 20 minutes from 6 AM. Then you must take a 1 hour boat tour of the market with a local.

     Bangkok is certainly one of the most exotic cities in the world. It is the cultural and economic center of the country of Thailand, which used to be the intriguing nation of Siam. Because Thailand is a monarchy, there is considerable pomp and circumstance associated with the kings and the special treatment has produced much of the meticulous detail enshrined in the country's royal buildings. But most of Bangkok's tourist attractions revolve around the practice of Buddhism and the Wats (Temples) of Bangkok are second to none. Just like in Europe with its awesome churches, however, it is probably possible to become "watted out," since many are very similar. A Western visitor, nevertheless, will be totally impressed and mind-boggled by the gold and the exquisite workmanship which adorns each and every house of the Buddha. This post will be followed soon by a photo album and walking tour.

 

      1. Grand Palace - This incredibly ornate and spectacular complex of buildings is truly special and ranks as one of the most important attractions of its kind in the world. The grounds also contain the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Thailand's most important religious shrine.

 

      2. Wat Pho - The Temple of the Reclining Buddha, very close to the Grand Palace, claims to have one of the largest reclining Buddhas in the world. He is 150 feet long and 43 feet high, is covered in gold and his feet are encrusted with mother-of-pearl. The grounds here contain many other beautiful buildings as well. Wat Pho is also the center for Thai massage instruction and visitors can receive a complete massage, done by an apprentice, for a fraction of the cost at a major hotel.

 

      3. Boat Ride on the Chao Phraya River - This muddy river which winds through the city provides and important vehicle of transport for the goods and services of the city. Since there are few bridges across the river, and since traffic is always snarled in the city, river traffic is both convenient and efficient. Every visitor should see the vast city from the water, paying particular attention to the bustle of everyday life here. At the stops, pay close attention when someone throws bread into the water to see the frenzy of hundreds of large fish which thrive in the river.

 

      4. Wat Benchamabophit - The Marble Temple is another exquisite assemblage of buildings and meticulous grounds, to the north of the Grand Palace. Several golden Buddhas are featured in this collection of structures named for the white Carrara marble used in their construction.

 

      5. Wat Traimit - The Temple of the Golden Buddha displays a 5-ton Buddha of pure gold which was discovered accidentally when it fell during transport and the plaster covering cracked.

 

      6. Wat Intharawihan - This temple contains a large golden standing Buddha, 32 meters high.

 

      7. Wat Arun - The Temple of Dawn dominates the west (Thonburi) side of the river, opposite the city center. Its imposing prang or spire rises almost 80 meters and is exquisitely crafted of Chinese ceramic tile.

 

      8. Shopping in the Patpong Night Market - Bangkok's "red-light district" becomes, at night, the scene of some of the best shopping in Bangkok. Bargain hard to score those unususal items that are too expensive elsewhere. Knock-offs are featured here, but there is much more to see and the people-watching is great.

 

      9. Wat Saket and the Golden Mount - The Golden Mount rises majestically above the old city center and views from the top (after many stairs) are fantastic in all directions. Wat Saket, at the bottom of the hill, is another exquisite complex.

 

      10. Having Clothes Made at James Fashion - One of the premier shopping experiences in Bangkok is to have clothes custom-made. They can be ready for wear in 1-2 days and the staff will even come to your hotel for fittings and delivery of the finished product. Textiles is one of the major industries in Thailand.

 

       Other sites considered:

          Wat Suthat