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29 septembre Top 10 Cities in the USA The United States is well-known for its great cities. Many of them can be found in almost anyone's Top 50 cities of the world, so it was difficult narrowing the choices down to ten, but here goes. Again, they are listed in alphabetical order and the list will be followed by a photo album. Look for details about each elsewhere in the archives.
1. Boston, MA
2. Chicago, IL
3. New Orleans, LA
4. New York, NY
5. Orlando, FL
6. Philadelphia, PA
7. San Diego, CA
8. San Francisco, CA
9. Seattle, WA
10. Washington, D.C.
27 septembre Next 10 Top Cities in Europe Because there are so many wonderful cities in Europe, I thought it was appropriate to come up with a "next 10," since many of these cities would be included in anyone's Top 50 Cities in the World. So here are my choices for numbers 11-20, again listed in alphabetical order and to be followed by a photo album. See detailed descriptions of these cities as well elsewhere in the archives.
11. Amsterdam, Netherlands
12. Berlin, Germany
13. Brussels, Belgium
14. Budapest, Hungary
15. Copenhagen, Denmark
16. Dublin, Ireland
17. Edinburgh, Scotland
18. Helsinki, Finland
19. Lisbon, Portugal
26 septembre Walking Tour of Amsterdam, Netherlands Walking Tour of Amsterdam
Here is a city with a reputation for decadence and permissiveness which, nevertheless, has a charming ambience and friendly people, making it an important stop for anyone who seeks a complete European experience.
This walk begins in Dam Square, home of the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and the New Church. It is a very busy place with automobiles, trams, and hordes of people. After checking the three attractions listed above, exit the square to the south on Rokin (near the National Monument). Take a right into Spui, an adorable tree-lined square which contains the Begijnhof, a former cloister for single women interested in a life of solitude and charity.
Head back to Rokin, turn right and then right onto Vijzelgracht to reach Muntplein. At the square is the Mint Tower. Nearby, on SIngel Canal, is the Flower Market.
Take Vijzelgracht south to Weteringschams, take a right, then left, across the canal to the Rijksmuseum, one of the world's great art museums. It is especially famous for collection of works by Dutch masters, in particular, Rembrandt. Also in this museum complex is the Van Gogh Museum, another of Amsterdam's mega-attractions.
After your visit here, go back out the way you entered the museum area to Leidsed Warsstraat and turn left. At the square up ahead (Leidseplein) turn right on Leidsestraat and proceed to the very next canal, Prinsengracht. Take a left just across the canal and walk approximately one mile to Radhuisstraat. Just beyond the intersection is Amsterdam's most popular attraction, the Anne Frank House. You will know it by the long line waiting to enter. Next to it is the Westerkerk, which contains the remains of Rembrandt.
After the amazing visit to the Anne Frank House, head north, away from the churhc, then take the first right to the second canal (Herrengracht). Take a left and walk to Brouwersgracht. Across the canal is West Indies House, the former headquarters of the Dutch West India Company, which controlled trade with the Americas.
Take a right and walk down to Singel Canal. On the opposite side, at #7, is the Narrowest House (at least in frontage at 1 meter wide). Continue eastward, then turn left and then right at Prins Hendrickkade. When you reach the Central Station area, look for St Nicholas Church and the Schreierstoren (Tower of Tears) which was once part of the city's fortifications. Both are worth a closer look.
Now, take Gelderskade south, then turn right to the Zeedijk (Sea Dike) which once protected the city from incursions from the sea. Go left on Zeedijk and continue southerly. Next, turn right to Oudezijde Voorburgwal to get to the Oude Kerk (Old Church), on your right. This 14th century Gothic structure is notable for its gilded ceiling, great organ, and Lady Chapel.
From here, walk straight out of the church and across the canal, then slightly right into New Market Square. De Waag, the only Medieval gatehouse still remaining in the city, is now a restaurant on the square. Leave the square by heading south, on the right side of the canal just ahead, then take the first right and right after crossing the next canal to wander the streets of Amsterdam's Red Light District.
When done ogling, turn left on Molenstgasse (at the northern end of the area), then left onto Oudezijde Voorburgwal, then right onto Damstraat which leads back to Dam Square where the walk began. 25 septembre Walking Tour of New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Walking Tour of New Orleans
The "Big Easy" is one of the most exciting and unique destinations in the entire United States, perhaps the world. Here is a place which resonates with music at all hours of the day and night. Jazz, born here, can be heard on the streets, in the restaurants, and in the clubs. New Orleans is also a paradise for culinary aficionados. Cajun and Creole cooking are available everywhere. Mardi Gras here is world-renowned, but there is a party atmosphere every night as Bourbon Street is closed to traffic and the streets are filled with revelers.
In and Around the French Quarter
This walk begins at the Spanish Plaza, the lovely square on the Riverwalk, which winds along the Mississippi. This is the place to arrange a paddle-wheel cruise on the lazy river while you're in town. There are also many shops in the vicinity where you might return when time is available. The Aquarium of the Americas is also along the Boardwalk, a great place for the kids.
After exploring the area a bit, head up (northwest) Canal Street. At the St Charles Avenue intersection, board the St Charles Avenue Streetcar for a nostalgic and romantic ride through the tree-lined, wealthy area known as the Garden District. It makes a great introduction to the ambience of New Orleans.
When you return to Canal Street, turn left and walk to Basin Street. Take a right and walk several blocks northeast to St Louis Cemetery #1, on your left. Because of the high water table and periodic flooding, the city's dead are buried in above ground tombs. The designs and statuary are fascinating, and there were many prominent city residents interred here.
Now head down St Louis Street, back toward the river. At #820 is the Hermann-Grima House, one of the few Federal-style homes in the French Quarter. It was built in 1831. When you reach Bourbon Street, take a left and then a right on St Peter Street. On your right is the proverbial "center" of jazz in New Orleans, Preservation Hall. The legendary venue is the place to hear authentic New Orleans jazz.
Continue southwesterly down St Peter Street and take a left on Royal Street. At the corner where Orleans Avenue meets Royal are the LaBranche Buildings (#700). These are classic examples of French Quarter architecture with its ironwork balconies. Continue on Royal Street to Esplanade Avenue and turn right.
This broad, elegant, tree-lined thoroughfare was the home of the Creole aristocrats of New Orleans society. However, turn right at the next intersection, Chartres Street. At the corner of Gov. Nicholas Street, on the right, is the Beauregard-Keyes House, former residence of General P.G.T. Beauregard and of Frances Parkinson Keyes, a local novelist. Next door is the Soniat House, a combination of Creole and Greek Revival architecture. On your left is the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley (1752).
Continue on Chartres Street to the most popular gathering place in the French Quarter, Jackson Square. The beautiful, tastefully-landscaped square has a magnificent equestrian statue of General Andrew Jackson at its center. The Presbytere is the first building on the right as you enter the square. It was planned as housing for clergy but is now a Mardi Gras Museum. Check it out to experience the extravagance of Carnival time.
Next door is the stunning St Louis Cathedral. Its white exterior with three prominent steeples is distinctive, attractively symmetrical, and readily recognizable. Don't miss the beautiful interior, especially the altar area. Beside the Cathedral is the Cabildo. It was the New Orleans City Hall, and also the Louisiana Supreme Court Building. The Louisiana Purchase was signed here!
On the other two sides of the square are the Pontalba Buildings, apartment complexes. Walk southward across the square and turn left on Decatur Street. A few blocks to the east is the Historic French Market which now contains a Farmer's Market and Flea Market. Also nearby is the famous Cafe du Monde, a restaurant/cafe where smooth jazz serenades the customers.
Just beyond the French Market is the Old US Mint, now housing the New Orleans Jazz Collection. To return to the starting point of the walk, head southward along the riverfront. 24 septembre Walking Tours of London, EnglandWalking Tours of London, England This huge, sprawling city on the Thames is quintessentially British and loaded with attractions that can easily occupy an entire week. It is certainly one of the world's great cities, yet much of it is best explored on foot. The two walking tours below cover most of the must-see attractions in the center of the city, around the river and into a few of the more inland neighborhoods.
Walking Tour 1 - Along the Thames This walk begins at the Tower of London, the city's most popular attraction. A guided tour led by one of the Beefeaters is a must. Learn about the interesting and sometimes terrifying history of this place which has been a Royal residence, a Treasury, and most ominously, one of the most dreaded prisons in the world. After your visit, head west along Lower Thames Street, turn right on Monument Street to the Monument, which commemorates the Great Fire of London (1666) and was designed by Christopher Wren. It is considered the tallest, isolated, stone column in the world, at approximately 210 feet. From here, walk along Cannon Street which eventually leads to St Paul's Cathedral, whose spacious and elegant interior has hosted many important events, such as, the funeral of Winston Churchill (1965) and the wedding of Lady Diana to Prince Charles (1981). The church is the masterpiece of Christopher Wren who practically single-handedly rebuilt the city of London after the Great Fire. Now take Ludgate Hill St west, which becomes Fleet Street. Take a left on King's Bench Walk which leads south toward the river. On your right is the Temple Church, one of the few round, Norman churches remaining in England. This one was built for the Knight's Templar in the 12th century. When finished continue south to the river and turn left on the Victoria Embankment past the Black Friars Bridge to the Millennium Bridge, a footbridge which crosses the Thames. Cross the river here, stopping frequently to admire the views both up and down the river. When you reach the south side of the river (called Bankside) head straight ahead to the Tate Modern, one of London's foremost art museums, displaying 20th and 21st century art from around the world. After your visit, walk eastward and toward the river to find Shakespeare's Globe, a reconstruction of the Elizabethan theater where many of the Bard's plays were performed (if here during the summer months, try to attend a performance). When finished at the Globe, walk away from the river (south) to Southwark Street and turn left. In the vicinity of Southwark Cathedral, continue east on Tooley St and then left onto Tower Bridge Road. Ahead is one of London's icons, the Tower Bridge. This powder-blue, Medieval-looking span is only a bit more than 100 years old (1894) but has nevertheless captured the fancy of millions with its unusual design. After leaving the bridge (on the north side of the river), take a left down the stairs to the Tower of London where the walk began. Walking Tour 2 - Around Westminster This walk begins at Trafalgar Square, one of London's most popular gathering places. Wander the square and its environs thoroughly, noting Nelson's Column, a tribute to Admiral Nelson, England's most famous naval hero, as well as the pools and fountains. Around the square are the National Gallery, the regal, columned building to the north, the National Portrait Gallery, to its right, and St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, a model for Colonial churches in the United States, toward the northeast (check out the Cafe-in-the-Crypt for a bite of lunch). From the square, head down Whitehall (south) toward Westminster. On the right are the Horse Guards where a "Changing of the Guard" ceremony is held each day. The Banqueting House, one of the world's most beautiful dining halls, is on the left. Further down, on the right is 10 Downing Street, residence of the British Prime Minister. Beyond the Cenotaph, a war memorial in the center of the road, this street becomes Parliament St and leads to Parliament Square. Explore the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, the huge bell in St Stephen's Tower which also contains the clock recognized around the world. To the west of Parliament is Westminster Abbey, one of the world's great churches, mainly because it is the final resting place for so many of England's monarch and other notables. Must-see spots in the church include Poet's Corner, a memorial to England's famous literati, Elizabeth I's Tomb, and the grave of Sir Isaac Newton, featured in the movie, The DaVinci Code. Exit the church and return to Parliament Square. Take a left on Great George Street which becomes Birdcage Walk. Then enter St James' Park and stroll to the north and then west to the Queen Victoria Memorial and the grand Buckingham Palace, residence of the Royal Family. Try to time your visit to coincide with the elaborate Changing of the Guard ceremony which normally takes place at 11:30 AM. Some rooms of the palace may be open at various times of the year, so check before you leave. After the palace, continue west on Constitution Hill to the entrance to Hyde Park, Instead of entering now, continue westward on Southbridge Street and then, at the Knightsbridge Tube Station, turn left on Brompton Road. Harrod's Department Store, one of the world's best, is on your left. Browse the incredible displays, especially the Food Hall. Next, retrace your steps back to Knightsbridge and cross into Hyde Park. Head westward along the south edge of the park to the Albert Memorial. Just south is the Royal Albert Hall, a well-known entertainment venue. If you continue westward, you will enter the Kensington Gardens which are delightful to stroll. Be sure to stop at the Peter Pan Statue. Next head north and east to the Cumberland Gate where you can make a speech at Speaker's Corner and also see the Marble Arch when you exit the park. Follow Oxford Street east for a long way until you reach Bloomsbury St. Take a left, then a right on Great Russell St to London's best museum and one of the world's greatest, the British Museum. After your visit, head back to Bloomsbury St, take a left and continue straight when it becomes Shaftesbury Ave, which winds its way to Picadilly Circus, one of the city's busiest intersections and another favorite gathering place. From here, take Coventry St, to the east, and straight ahead on Longacre, then right on James Street into the Covent Garden area. After checking out the St Paul's Church and the Central Market, leave by heading south on Southhampton Street. Take a right at the Strand which leads back to Trafalgar Square and the walk's starting point. 22 septembre Top 10 Cities in Europe National Geographic has just released a list of their Top 50 Cities/Places of a Lifetime. I thought I would respond by coming up with my own set of top cities. However, to drag the process out a bit, I will do it by continent and then follow each post with a photo album.
The first release in the series is Top 10 Cities in Europe. They are listed in alphabetical order and all have been included elsewhere on the website, so check the archives.
1. Athens, Greece
2. Barcelona, Spain
3. London, England
4. Madrid, Spain
5. Munich, Germany
6. Paris, France
7. Prague, Czech Republic
8. Rome, Italy
9. Venice, Italy
10. Vienna, Austria
21 septembre Walking Tours of New York City, NY Walking Tours of New York City
The "Big Apple" is one of the most exciting and interesting places on earth. There are so many mega-attractions that a visitor can easily spend a week or more and not run out of things to do. There are activities and fun-filled locations for people of all ages. However, the city can be very intimidating because of the huge throngs of people and the tremendous traffic. Enjoy your stay and realize that New Yorkers love to walk and that the city, although very large, can be accessed by foot.
Walking Tour 1 - Lower Manhattan
This walk begins at Battery Park, on the southern tip of Manhattan Island. Before beginning your walk, take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, necessary excursions for all tourists to the city. Get to the area early in the morning to avoid the long lines.
After your cruise, return to Battery Park and wander the area. Exit by heading north on Broadway. When you reach Trinity Church, make a short visit, then leave at the rear of the church on Trinity Place. Just to the northwest is Ground Zero, the area which used to be occupied by the World Trade Center's Twin Towers, destroyed in the horrific events of September 11, 2001. This is now hallowed ground and the future site of a new memorial structure being built to commemorate the almost 1,000 lives lost on that fateful day. There are reminders everywhere that make this a very solemn scene.
From here, head back to Broadway via Libery or Vesey Streets and turn left (north). On your right as you proceed is New York's City Hall. This was where the Declaration of Independence was first read to New Yorkers while George Washington stood nearby.
Turn left on Chambers Street, then right on West Broadway through the Soho neighborhood and into another famous New York area, Greenwich Village and eventually to Washington Square. Check out the famous Washington Arch and relax for a bit, here, to do some people-watching, since this is a popular gathering place in the city.
Exit by turning left at the south end of the square on W. 4th Street. Then turn right on Lafayette, left on Houston, then right on Mott Street which heads into "Little Italy," the city's Italian neighborhood. Mott Street continues into Chinatown. Keep walking down to Canal Street and take a left. There are numerous bargain opportunities here for shoppers. Then turn right onto The Bowery which becomes St James Place and then Pearl Street as it travels southward.
Take a left on Fulton Street, where the old fish market has become a string of shops. Walk onward to the East River and turn right in this South Street Seaport area which is also replete with shops and restaurants.
Continue southward then turn right onto Wall Street heading into the Financial District of the city. Check out Federal Hall National Memorial, which is on the site of our nation's first Capitol Building.
From here, head south on Nassau Street to Broad Street, then right on Pearl Street to return to your starting point, Battery Park.
Walking Tour 2 - Midtown Manhattan
Note, before starting, that to reduce the duration of the walk and some of the distances, some subway rides have been inserted. Also note that attempting to accomplish all the activities included in this walk in one day is impossible! Travelers should perhaps use this walk as an orientation and then return to various venues that spark their interest later in their visit to the city.
This walk originates in Times Square, the heart of New York City and one of the most famous locations in the world. Keep in mind that what is known as Times Square is a fairly large area, encompassing the junction of 7th Avenue and Broadway between 42nd and 50th Streets. The activity level here is staggering as are the crowds at any time of the day or night. Kids will want to check out the Toys 'R' Us Store, but there are many other enticements as well. This is also the center of New York's Theater District.
From 42nd Street, head into the subway and take either the Yellow Line (N,R,Q or W trains) or the Red Line (1,2,3, or 9 trains) Downtown to 34th Street. Walk east on 34th Street to the Empire State Building, at the corner of 34th and 5th Avenue. The views from the Observatories of this extremely famous skyscraper are easily worth the wait in line.
When finished here, continue east on 34th Street to Park Avenue and turn right one block to 33rd Street. Pick up a Green Line Subway (4,5, or 6 train) back Uptown to 42nd Street and Grand Central Terminal. Admire the architecture and especially the ceiling of this Beaux Arts masterpiece.
Leaving the terminal, walk eastward on 42nd Street to 1st Avenue. Turn left and walk north to the United Nations Building, at the junction of 46th Street. Visit this symbol of world cooperation (and sometimes world dissension).
Exit and walk north on 1st Avenue then left on 48th Street all the way to 5th Avenue. Turn right on 5th to see, on your left, Rockefeller Center, home of the Today Show and NBC Studios (take the tour if you've never seen the intricacies of a television studio) and the Skating Rink (occupied by restaurant seating in the summertime).
After your visit continue north on 5th Avenue. On your right is St Patrick's Cathedral, a beautiful, Gothic-designed Roman Catholic church. Further north, at 52nd Street is the Museum of Television and Radio, a great place for the nostalgia-buff to relive the early days of these important media.
Another block or so north, at 11 W. 53rd Street, is the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), one of the world's great art museums. When finished here, head back toward 5th Avenue and one block beyond to Madison Avenue. Take a left and, especially if you have children with you, check out the SONY Wonder Technology Lab, at 550 Madison (amazingly enough, it's FREE!).
After your visit, head south to 53rd Street and east to Lexington Avenue where you can pick up a Green Line Subway (4,5,or 6 train) Uptown to 77th Street, then head west to 5th Avenue and right to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, another of the world's greatest museums.
Seven blocks further north is the Solomon R Guggenheim Museum, where the building itself is one of the star attractions.
From the Guggenheim, enter Central Park and walk generally south and west across this huge urban park, designed by Frederick Law Olmstead. Wander some of the paths and be sure to spend some time people-watching. Exit the park using Trans Road #2 (in the vicinity of 79th Street) westward, then take Central Park West south to the American Museum of Natural History, one of the world's great science museums, which also includes the Rose Center for Earth and Space.
Leaving here, head a fews blocks north to 81st Street and take the Blue Line (A or C train) Downtown to either 50th Street or 42nd Street, whichever is nearest to your starting point in Times Square.
20 septembre Walking Tours of Paris, France Walking Tours of Paris, France
Paris, the "City of Lights," is often called the "most romantic city in the world." The classic vision conjured up by this image is a couple walking arm in arm along the Seine River. Although it is a huge city, many of the most important attractions and much of the beauty of the city is centered around this river which runs like a ribbon through the center of this urban metropolis. A boat ride on a Bateau Mouche is a must-do activity for travelers to Paris because of the importance of the river and its access to many of these sights. Another way to incorporate the river into your sightseeing is to walk along its banks and their vicinity. My first walk takes advantage of the river's omnipresence.
Walking Tour 1 - Around the Seine
This walk begins at the famous glass pyramid of the Louvre, one of Paris' many must-see attractions, located between the Rue de Rivoli and the Seine River.
Visit the Louvre early to avoid the crowds, then proceed west from the pyramid, past the Triumphal Arch built by Napoleon and through the lovely Tuileries Garden and ultimately out into the Place de la Concorde, which is a very busy area but worth closer examination. Check out the Egyptian Obelisk (3,200 years old), the fountains and statues. During the French Revolution it was the location of the guillotine which ended the lives of over 1,000, including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
Take the Champs Elysses which begins at the square and ends at the Arc de Triomphe. This grand thoroughfare, one of the most famous streets in the world, is lined with exclusive shops and cafes. The beginning is adorned with formal gardens which offer some shelter from the noise and bustle of the city.
When you reach Place Clemenceau, turn left on Winston Churchill Avenue to see the Grand Palace, on the right, and the Little Palace, on the left. Ahead is Pont Alexandre III, but save a detailed look at this famous bridge for later, on your river cruise.
Instead, return to the Champs Elysses and turn left, climbing the hill to the Arc de Triomphe, one of Paris' premier attractions. Take the tunnel under the traffic circle to reach the structure which chronicles and pays tribute to the victories of Napoleon and the French who died in other wars. The view from the top of the Arch is stunning.
Next, head down the Avenue d'lena which eventually brings you to the Trocadero Gardens, across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. Cross the bridge to Paris' #1 attraction and one of the most readily recognized icons in the world. It was built by Gustav Eiffel for the 1889 World Exhibition and was, for a while, the tallest structure in the world, at over 1,000 feet high.
Climb the tower for fantastic views of the entire city. At the base of the tower, incidentally, is the launching dock for the Bateau Mouche cruises of the Seine, a must-do activity for all visitors to the city, but return here later, or on another day, for that part of your visit.
Exit the area by walking southeast (away from the river) along Avenue Pierre Loti through the Parc du Champ de Mars and aroung the military school to Avenue de Segur, then turn left to reach the Hotel des Invalides, whose dome sits over the tomb of Napoleon.
Pass by the Court of Honor to the Quai d'Orsay and take a right along the banks of the Seine, past the Bourbon Palace, now the National Assembly Building and onward to the Musee' d'Orsay. Save a visit here for later and continue the walk eastward along the Seine, past the School of Fine Arts, then take a right onto Rue de Vieux Colombier to St Sulpice Church, featured in the movie, The DaVinci Code. Take a quick look inside then turn right onto Rue Garanciere which leads to the Luxembourg Palace and its wonderful gardens. Stroll the lovely garden paths leisurely to enjoy the park-like atmosphere.
Exit at the front of the palace and take a right onto Rue de Vaugirard. Take another right on St Michael's Boulevard, then left on Soufflot into the district known as the Latin Quarter and up to the Pantheon. This impressive domed church is famous as the final resting place for many notable French men and women, such as, Victor Hugo, Marie Curie, Rousseau, and Zola.
Return to Boulevard St Michel and turn right. Be sure to spend some time here on the Left Bank, sitting at a cafe and people-watching. Eventually this road will bring you back to the river. Check out the Place St Michel and its beautiful fountain, then cross the bridge ahead onto the Ile de la Cite'. Continue straight ahead on the Boulevard du Palais. On the left is the exquisite Sainte Chapelle, a Gothic masterpiece with magnificent stained glass windows. Next to it is the Palace of Justice, once the Royal Palace, and, on the northern side of the island, is the Conciergerie, the infamous prison where the condemned awaited their decapitation.
Next head down the Rue de Lutece, then right on Rue de la Cite' and walk left into Notre Dame Square. The incredible cathedral before you must be scrutinized from all sides and angles. Be sure to check out the gargoyles, portals, and flying buttresses on the exterior and the famous Rose Windows inside.
When finished, exit north on the D'Arcole and cross the Notre Dame Bridge back to the right bank. Almost directly ahead, on your right, is Paris' beautiful City Hall. Check out its grand elegance and the beautiful square it sits on.
Exit to the north, turning left on Rue de Rivoli which will bring you back to the Louvre. A slight detour -- an immediate right on Rue du Renard, will take you to the Pompidou Center, another of the city great museums.
Walking Tour 2 - North of the Seine
This walk begins at Paris' Opera House (Opera National de Paris Garnier), one of the foremost venues of its kind in the world. To paraphrase Ernest Hemingway, if I could sit in front of the Opera House indefinitely, the entire world will pass by. It is located at the northern end of the Avenue l'Opera, just north of the Tuileries Gardens.
A short, optional detour leaves the Place de l'Opera heading southwest on the Boulevard des Capucines which leads to the Place de la Madeleine and the huge church which was originally built as a temple by Napoleon. Return to the Opera House and continue northeast on Boulevard des Capucines, then turn left on Rue Laffitte. When you reach Rue de Chateaudun turn right then immediately left on Rue Flecher to a large intersection. Turn left onto Rue Notre Dame de Lorette and then right onto Rue Pigalle which leads to Pigalle Square. This infamous neighborhood is the decadent part of Paris where you will see sex shops and other x-rated places.
Take a left on Rue de Clichy and then turn right at the famous Moulin Rouge (Red Windmill) where the Can-can became famous and is still performed. You are now on Rue Lepic and have entered the section of Paris known as Montmartre, an enclave populated by artists.
Follow Rue Lepic as it winds first to the west then to the east and ends up at the famous bakery, Boulangerie, used as a subject in so many paintings of the area.
From here, head east on Rue Norvins which enters the center of the Montmartre neighborhood, Place du Tertre. This is another great place to people-watch while sipping a beer or a coffee.
Continue east on Rue Norvins which will bring you to another of Paris' famous churches, Sacre Coeur. The beautiful white Basilica sits high above the city and offers stupendous views. Be sure to check out the inside as well, admiring, among other things, the Great Mosaic of Christ, above the choir.
When you leave, take the funicular or the stairs down to Rue le Tudico. Take a right, then left on Rue des Trois Fieres, Continue straight at the square down to Boulevard de Rochechouart, then straight across to Rue Bochart du Saron, then right on Rue Condorcet and left on Rue des Martyrs.
Continue southward right through the large intersection with Rue Notre Dame de Lorette and other streets onto Rue Flecher and then a quick right and left onto Rue Laffitte and finally right on Boulevard de Italiens which becomes Boulevard des Capucines and leads back to the Opera House where you began.
19 septembre Walking Tours of San Francisco, CA, USA Walking Tour of San Francisco
Walking Tour 1 - City Walk
The "City by the Bay" is one of the world's great destinations. It's easy to spend an entire week exploring the city and its environs. People never tire of seeing the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoying the excitement of this beloved tourist location. Some of its enclaves and ethnic neighborhoods, such as, Nob Hill and Chinatown, are legendary.
This walking tour (it will also incorporate a Cable Car ride since the city is large, the attractions spread out, and the many hills are notoriously steep) begins at Fisherman's Wharf, at the north end of the city and directly on San Francisco Bay.
First, explore this area in depth before proceeding. Check out the seals on Pier 39, or perhaps arrange a boat trip to Alcatraz Island for later in your stay. Certainly spend some time at Ghirardelli Square, at the western end of the wharf area, for shop and restaurant options.
Then hop on a Powell-Hyde Cable Car which begins at the junction of Hyde and Beach Streets. Get off as close to Lombard Street as possible (ask the conductor). Spend a few minutes checking out the "crookedest street in the world."
Then get back on the next Cable Car and take it as far as Union Square, one of the best shopping areas in the entire city. After browsing the square and perhaps planning to return when you have more time, take Maiden Lane, an alley on the east side of the square. It has more shops and also contains a Frank-Lloyd Wright-designed building at #140.
Walk all the way to Grant Avenue and turn left into San Francisco's Chinatown, the largest Chinese neighborhood in the world outside China. The entrance gate is a few blocks ahead. Savor the colorful chaos of this bustling area, even exploring side alleys (such as Waverly Place, off Clay Street) as you walk basically northward.
Turn right onto Washington Street and then left at Montgomery. Look for the Transamerica Pyramid, the city's tallest building. As you pass this skyscraper, you are in the Jackson Square Historic District -- notice the lamp posts and hitching posts.
Continue north on Montgomery then turn left at Broadway. At the corner of Columbus and Broadway is the City Lights Bookstore, a reminder of when the headquarters of the Beat Generation could be found in San Francisco. For more of the same nostalgia, check out Jack Kerouac Alley, just south of the bookstore.
Next, head northwest on Columbus Avenue to enter North Beach, the Italian section of the city. Continue to Washington Square, which contains the Sts Peter and Paul Church and a Statue of Benjamin Franklin. This grassy area is a favorite gathering place.
Now, turn right on Filbert Street and head east to Telegraph Hill. Turn left on Stockton and then right on Lombard to the Coit Tower and Statue of Christopher Columbus. Climb the tower for some of the best views of the city and its lovely bay.
When finished here, head behind the tower to the "Greenwich" sign and take the stairs down the hill all the way to Sansome Street, then take a left and walk down to the Embarcadero at the water. Turn left and follow the bayside road to Jefferson and continue along the piers back to Fisherman's Whart, where the walking tour began.
(The total distance covered is approximately 5.7 miles but almost half of this length is via Cable Car, so the actual walking distance is closer to 3 miles, but remember that much of the walk involves steep hills.)
Walking Tour - 2 - Bridge and Parks Walk
Begin at the Golden Gate Bridge (on the far - Sausalito - side). Walk the bridge south toward San Francisco. (Note - this walk is extremely long so to cut down on the distance, drive the bridge and begin the walk at the city-end of the bridge).
At the end of the bridge turn right onto Lincoln Avenue which leads through the Golden Gate Recreation Area to Lincoln Park. Inside the park, museum-lovers will enjoy the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, an excellent art museum.
After your visit, exit via Legion of Honor Drive, then turn right on Geary Boulevard which becomes Point Lobos and leads to Cliff House, a very popular overlook which features Seal Rocks.
Continue along the coastline on the Pacific Coast Highway to Golden Gate Park. Wander the 3-mile expanse along JFK Drive from the ocean to Stanyan Street. Check out, in particular, the Conservatory of Flowers, the Dutch Windmill, and the lovely Japanese Gardens.
To continue the walk, exit the park at its eastern end on Haight Avenue. The vicinity where this road meets Ashbury Street is the famous Haight-Ashbury District, well-known for the "flower children" of the 1970's. When you reach Market Street, turn left and left again on Dr Carleton Goodlett Place which will take you to San Francisco's Beaux Arts City Hall. Continue past the building and take a right, then left again on Market to Hallidie Plaza where you can pick up the Hyde-Powell Cable Car which brings you down to the waterfront near Fisherman's Wharf. 18 septembre Walking Tour of Krakow, PolandWalking tour of the Old Town Begin at the Barbican (north end of Old Town). Note the Florian Gate and the City Walls. Before going through the gate, see the Planty (a park surrounding old town). Walk down Florianska St, continue into Main Market Square (a great gathering place and people-watching area). Check out St Mary's Church. Its interior is stunning in maroon and blue and the altarpiece is exquisite. From the window of the tower, a bugler begins a warning each hour to the townspeople similar to the time when the Tatar's approached in the 13th century and was cut down by an archer. Spend some time at the Cloth Hall, a 16th century Renaissance building which now houses a crafts market. Opposite the church is the Town Hall Tower. Climb to the top for a bird's eye view of Europe's largest square. If time permits, exit the square at the southwest corner on Sw Anny. Ahead on the left is the Collegium Maius, the only surviving building of the academy where the famous scientist, Copernicus, studied. A bit further on the right is the sumptuous, Baroque St Anne's Church. Leave the square at the middle of the south end (Ulica Bracka) to a big red brick church (St Francis Basilica) and check out its Art Nouveau stained glass. Outside the church, turn right and look across the square to see the 13th century Dominican Church. Both were powerful monastic centers. Walk south on Grodzka. Continue on Grodzka to Saints Peter and Paul Church. This was the first Baroque church built in Poland. Next to it is St Andrews Church, built in 1086, which was the only building that survived the Tatar invasion of 1241 AD. Walk across the square opposite the two churches and then turn left on Kanonicza St (arguably Krakow’s most picturesque street) which leads upward to Wawel Hill. Tour the Cathedral, where monarchs were coronated and buried for four hundred years. The Sigismund Chapel, with its golden dome, is a remarkable Renaissance structure. Spend some time in the Castle with its Flemish tapestries and Royal Chambers and on the beautifully landscaped grounds. If time permits, visit the Jewish Quarter (Kasimierz) which is a 20 minute walk from the Old Town (southeast of Wawel). Take Ulica Stradomiska southward from the castle. Take a right on Meiselsa then a left on Augustiariska to check out St Catherine's Church, which is Gothic in design, then continue south and take a left onto Weglowa which leads to Corpus Christi Church, which is decorated in the Baroque style. Continue eastward on what is now Wawrzyrica out of Catholic (western) section of the district and into the Jewish section. Go left on Waska to reach the High Synagogue. Turn left and immediately right to pass Izaak's Synagogue and then to reach the Remu'h Synagogue and Cemetery. If the synagogue is open, the cemetery can be visited where you will see some interesting Renaissance gravestones.
17 septembre Walking Tours of Istanbul, TurkeyWalking Tours of Istanbul, Turkey Istanbul, once the Roman city of Constantinople and center of the Roman Empire, has always been a crossroads between Asia and Europe. The city itself straddles both continents, with its eastern portion in Asia and the western part, the major tourist area, in Europe. The first walk will incorporate the Old City, which includes Sultanahmet, Seraglio Point, and the Bazaar District. Keep in mind that this is a very large area and travelers may want to break the walk up into more manageable segments. An alternative is to do the entire walk without extended visits to the attractions and then return to the desired tourist sights for in-depth attention. A separate walk will address the Beyoglu section of the city, modern Istanbul. Walking Tour 1 - Old City and Surroundings This walk begins in Sultanahmet Square which contains two of the city’s premier attractions, the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Hagia Sophia is recognized as one of the most important buildings in the world. It was built by the Roman Emperor Justinian, in 537 AD. Later, in the 15th century, it was converted into a mosque by the Ottoman Turks. Now it is a museum. The edifice still has one of the largest domes in the world. Recent restorations have exposed some of the original Christian mosaics which were covered over when it became a Muslim house of worship. The incredible size of the interior (nave) is staggering. Across the gardens from Hagia Sophia is the splendid Blue Mosque, one of only a few mosques in the world adorned with six (6) minarets. Built in the early 17th century by Sultan Ahmet I, it is named for the exquisite blue tiles which cover its interior. (Note: women must cover their heads to enter and all must remove their shoes) Exit the mosque by heading back toward the Hagia Sophia and turning left on Mimar Mehmet Aga Caddesi. Cross the street into the Hippodrome, once the ancient Roman stadium that held chariot races and other events. Wander the expanse and check out the three interesting obelisks. The Egyptian Obelisk, furthest to the northeast (right) was built in 1500 BC and moved here from Luxor, Egypt by Emperor Constantine. The middle monolith is the Serpentine Column which came here from Delphi, Greece and is thought to have been built in 479 BC. The third obelisk is the Column of Constantine Porphysogenitus (also known as the Brazen Column) and was restored to its current state in the 10th century. Leave the Hippodrome by walking out to the street that you crossed to enter the area, Atmehdani Sokak, turn left passing Hagia Sophia then turn right onto Sogukcesme Caddesi, which leads to the Imperial Gate and through the First Courtyard of the Topkapi Palace, to its public entrance. This incredibly opulent complex was home and seat of government for Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. The grounds are laid out in a series of courtyards dotted with various buildings and pavilions. Entry is through the distinctive Gate of Salutations. The Treasury is a must-see with its unbelievable collection of precious objects, as is the Harem where the sultans wives and concubines lived. Other significant stops include the Pavilion of the Holy Mantle which contains relics of the prophet Mohammed, and the palace kitchens which now display an exhibition of ceramics, glass, and silverware. Exit the palace and go straight on Babihumayun Caddesi , past Hagia Sophia, then right onto Ayasophia Mehdani, then diagonally left onto Divanyolu Caddesi until you see a tall Byzantine Column known as Cemberlita. Take a right on Vezir Hani Caddesi and walk downhill to the Nuruosmaniye Mosque. Take a left at the mosque which brings you one of the gates into the Kapali Carsi (Grand Bazaar). Wander and get incredibly lost in the maze of this mega-mall of over 4,000 shops, somewhat arranged by type of merchandise. Be sure to bargain hard for all treasures. When you finally leave, try to exit at the northwestern corner of the complex, the Orucular Gate and continue straight (north) on Orucular Caddesi. If you are not already mosqued-out and are willing to make a short detour, you may visit the Suleyman Mosque, Istanbul’s most important house of worship, by turning left on Ismetiye Caddesi -- the mosque will be on the right (Istanbul University is on the left). When done, return to Orucular Caddesi and take a left ( the road becomes Uzuncarsi Caddesi). Several blocks ahead, turn right onto Kutucular Caddesi which becomes Hasircilar Caddesi. Turn left at Tahmis Caddesi and right on Cami Mehdani Sokak to reach the entrance to the Egyptian (Spice) Bazaar. As you enter, you will be mesmerized by the colorful displays of exotic spices and the aromas are heavenly. Again, be sure to bargain hard. When done, exit and go back to Tahmis Caddesi, turn right and head down to the waterfront, turning right again to the Bosporus Cruise docks. A fitting end to the walk is a relaxing (if you don’t mind getting jostled by the crowds) cruise on this waterway which separates Asia and Europe. It travels almost to the Black Sea, north of the city, before returning. To return to the starting point after your cruise, go left on Resadiye Caddesi, then right on Anakara Caddesi, then left on Professor Kazim Ismail Gurkan Caddesi and finally right on Atmedani Sokak to Sultanahmet Square. TOTAL Distance: approximately 12 km/6.6 miles Walking Tour 2 - Beyoglu This more modern section of Istanbul also has some allure for tourists. The walk begins in Taksim Square, scene of many special events and other activities for the city. From the square, head east along the edge of Taksim Park, then turn left on Mete Caddesi and right on Gazhane Bostani Sokak. When you reach the Bosporus, turn left and visit the Dolmabahce Palace on the right side of the street. The only way to visit is by guided tour. The Royal Family moved into the sumptuous residence from Topkapi in 1856. Highlights include the Ceremonial Hall, Crystal Staircase, Ataturk’s Bedroom, and the Main Bathroom. After your visit, turn left on Dolmabahce Caddesi which changes names several times. Turn right when you reach Yuksek Kaldirim Caddesi. Look for the Galata Tower, to the left. It was a Genoese fortification which dates to 1348. Subsequently used as a prison, it is now a tourist attraction and provides great views of the Old City, across the Golden Horn. When finished, head back out to Yuksek Kaldirim Caddesi and turn left. When you reach the large intersection where the Galata Tunnel ends, turn diagonally right onto the pedestrian-only Istiklal Caddesi which is lined with shops and restaurants and is one of the busiest thoroughfares in the world. It leads back to Taksim Square where you began. TOTAL Distance: 9 km/5 miles 16 septembre Walking Tour of Philadelphia, PA, USA Philadelphia is one of the most historically important cities in the entire United States. It was a pivotal place during the days preceding and following the Revolutionary War. Thankfully, this historical treasure-house is fairly compact and ideal for walking. However, Philadelphia has much more to offer than history and some of these additional attractions are also included in my walk.
Begin at the Independence National Historical Park Visitor Center, on 2nd Street. See the film, Independence, and pick up a map from the center personnel before proceeding.
Exit at 3rd Street. Driectly across the street is the First Bank of the United States and the Federal Government's bank from 1797 to 1811. Exit and take the path to the rear of the building which leads to the New Hall Military Museum. Don't bother with the museum unless you are particularly interested in this subject, but turn left and visit Carpenter's Hall, site of the 1st Continental Congress in 1774. Walk back past the museum and cross Chestnut Street bearing a bit to the right to get to Franklin Court, a glowing tribute to Benjamin Franklin, one of our nation's most respected patriots. Visit the Underground Museum and the First Post Office, then exit onto Market Street (to the north).
Turn left and proceed to Independence Mall, a vast expanse of green. Go first to the Liberty Bell Pavilion, to see one of the most enduring symbols of American freedom.
Looking south, head for Independence Hall (entrance is in the rear) where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the Constitution of the United States drafted. Take a tour to see where the representatives sat and discussed the Revolution.
Next, spend some time in Independence Square checking out Congress Hall and Old City Hall.
When finished, walk back out to Market Street and turn left. When you get to 11th Street, turn right and take a break at the Reading Terminal Market, a delightful indoor mall of stands selling all sorts of items, especially food. It's a great place to have lunch to get fortified for the longer part of the walk.
Return to Market Street and turn right, heading for Philadelphia's distinctive City Hall, topped with a statue of William Penn. Turn right and walk around City Hall with a left on Filbert Street until you reach the Visitor Center at JFK Plaza (on the right). From here look down flag-lined Benjamin Franklin Parkway toward the Phildelphia Museum of Art (although not included in this walk, it is worth a visit) for a classic view of the city. For another photo-op, proceed down the Parkway a bit and look back at the City Hall.
From the plaza, head south on 16th Street and take a right onto Market Street, walking as far as 22nd Street. Take a left and look for the College of Physician's Mutter Museum, a unique venue which examines the history of medicine and disease. After the visit, continue south to Chestnut Street, turn left and walk back to 15th Street. Take a right to Pine Street and then left, proceeding through what is known as Antiques Row (a shopping area) to 9th Street.
Take a right here and head for the city's Italian Market, in South Philly, a cacophony of incredible sounds and smells, made famous in the Rocky movie. Browse the shops and stalls, then go eastward (on almost any street) and turn left on 3rd Street, heading through the Historic Waterfront District, past the Kosciuszko National Memorial all the way to Arch Street where you can visit the Betsy Ross House. Go east on Arch Street to 2nd Street, turn right and return to the starting point of the walk.
15 septembre Walking Tour of Athens, Greece Walking Tour of Athens, Greece
The site of the birth of Western Civilization and of the elements of Democracy is an incredibly historic look back for the visitor. The looks and sometimes feels like a huge archaeological dig. The crowning glory of all this history is the Acropolis, one of the most important tourist attractions in the world. The fact that it towers above the city center and can be seen from almost everywhere is a constant reminder of its world-wide significance.
This walking tour begins, appropriately enough, at the public entrance to the Acropolis. See it first for its influence and impact will be felt throughout your stay in Athens. Keep in mind that these buildings, although in various stages of ruin and decay, were constructed during the 5th century BC, over 2,500 years ago. It's amazing that there is so much that remains to be seen.
Be awestruck by the beauty and symmetry of the Parthenon; wonder about the unusual design of the Erechtheion; try to imagine how the Propylea, the grand entrance to the complex, looked in the time of Pericles. Also check out the remarkably well-preserved Odeon of Herodes Atticus, still used today for special events, and the Theater of Dionyus, where so many Greek plays were performed.
Because of its location, high above the city, the Acropolis provides fantastic views of the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, Areopagus Hill, and Mount Lycabettus, to the northeast.
Exit by way of the Theater of Dionysus, in the southeastern corner of the complex, see the Chapel of St George along the way and emerge on Dionysiou Areopagitou, across from the New Acropolis Museum, which should now be open. Be sure to stop at the museum to see the originals of some of the relics from the site, removed to preserve them.
When finished at the museum, exit and turn right, then left on Vyronos which leads to Plaka Square, with its Lysicrates Monument. This square was a popular spot of Lord Byron, the famous English poet.
Continue north on Sezley, then Tripodon, and take a right on Flessa, and left on Nicodemou, then right on Apollonos. Head left at the fork to reach the Mitropolis (Athens' Cathedral). Just before it on the right is the Panagia Gorgoepikous, a tiny church which dates to the 12th century. Check out the beautiful carvings inside.
After you have visited both churches, go west on Pandroson, then left on Mnisikleous, and right on Kyristou to the Tower of the Winds, an octagonal water clock and weather vane constructed in the 1st century BC.
Continue west from the Tower, through the Roman Agora, to reach the Ancient Agora. Wander through what was once the political center of the city. Be sure to walk along the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, which looks today as it might have looked in Athens' heyday.
Exit the Agora the way you came in and turn left on Areos, past Hadrian's Library and out to Monstiraki Square. Take a right on Ermou which becomes pedestrian-only and leads to Syntagma Square which is the location of Greece's Parliament Building and its Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. There is a Changing of the Guard Ceremony here at intervals throughout the day.
After watching, take a right on Leof Vas Amalias which passes by the National Gardens, on your left. If time permits, take the first major pathway into the Gardens, pass by the Zeppelou and exit at Irrodu Attikou. Across the street is the Presidential Palace, but turn right and ahead on your left is Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmara), built of white marble for the inaugural, modern Olympic Games in 1896 and was used again in 2004 when the games were held again in Athens.
Go left when leaving the stadium on Leof Vas Konstantinou, then right onto Leof Vas Olgas. In the open area to your left is the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest temple ever constructed in Greece (only a few of its original columns still remain). Turn left on Amalias and check out Hadrian's Arch, erected in 131 AD.
Take a right onto Dionysiou Areopagitou to return to the starting point of the walk. 13 septembre Top 10 Copenhagen Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and a delightful city on the Baltic Sea. Recently the Danes were found to be the "happiest people in the world," and this distinction is evident in any trip to its capital. Here are my choices of the best attractions and activities available in Copenhagen. Enjoy your trip!
1. Christiansborg Palace - This building is the seat of political power in Denmark and houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister's Offices.
2. Tivoli Gardens - This amusement park is reputed to be the world's oldest, dating to 1843, and is just as popular today, with its Moorish architecture, thrill rides, and thousands of lights which sparkle each evening.
3. Little Mermaid - The symbol of the city, this small statue, barely five feet high, sits on a boulder just offshore. It was sculpted in 1913, and probably reminds Danes of their favorite son, Hans Christian Anderson.
4. Rosenborg Castle - This imposing structure houses the Danish Crown Jewels, the Treasury and also encompasses the King's Garden and the Botanical Gardens.
5. Amalienborg Palace - The current residence of the Danish Royal Family has a "changing of the guard" ceremony at noon when the family is in residence.
6. Stroll the Stroget - This avenue is the longest and oldest pedestrian street in all of Europe. Browse the many shops or sample the fare of street vendors with the rest of the crowds.
7. Take a Photo at Nyhavn - This area of the city, known as New Harbor, is particularly photogenic with its many boats moored in the canal.
8. Excursion to Roskilde - Only about 30 kilometers west of the city, the town of Roskilde was once the most important city in Denmark. Its cathedral, Roskilde Domkirke, is the final resting place for many Danish monarchs. Here, visitors will also find the Viking Ship Museum, which displays five Viking vessels, painstakingly restored.
9. Have a Carlsberg and Knakkers - Danish Carlsberg beer is featured everywhere in the city and goes very well with the wonderful sausages that snap when they're bitten.
10. Check out Christiania - The "free city" of Christiania is an area of Copenhagen taken over by squatters who believe in a radically alternative lifestyle -- they have declared their area to be separate from Copenhagen, a "free" city. 12 septembre Walking Tour of Chicago, IL, USAWalking Tour of Chicago, IL, USA The exciting city of Chicago has long been recognized as a “true” American city, built with the blood and sweat of average Americans. It is a conglomeration of a multitude of ethnic neighborhoods, many of which still retain their cultural flavor. It has blossomed into a center for the Arts and Sciences and its many fine museums draw tourists from around the world. This walking tour begins in Grant Park which is the city’s centerpiece on Lake Michigan. The park provides great views of the city to the west and contains the marvelous Buckingham Fountain. After strolling the park, head west (toward the city) on Jackson Boulevard, passing the Chicago Board of Trade, the world’s oldest commodity exchange, to the Sears Tower which is located on South Wacker Drive, a right off the boulevard. Go up to the 103rd floor Skydeck for stunning views of the entire city. After the visit, continue north on Wacker Dr. Note the Chicago Mercantile Exchange on the left. It is one of the world’s largest financial exchanges. You’re can actually observe the trading of futures and options from the 4th floor gallery. Continue on what is now North Wacker Drive and then turn right on Washington Street and walk all the way to Michigan Avenue. Cross the major thoroughfare into Millennium Park (really just a continuation of Grant Park). Check out the noted architect Frank Gehry-designed Pritcker Pavilion, with its very modern and unusual band shell. Wander the gardens and promenades of the park before returning to Michigan Ave and turning right (north). The downtown part of Michigan Avenue in Chicago is known as the Magnificent Mile -- a treasure trove of high-end shopping and one of the best known venues of this type in the world. After crossing the Chicago River, look for the Wrigley Building on the left. It was modeled after the Giralda of Seville, Spain. The Tribune Tower, a little further ahead on the right has a façade which incorporates stones from some of the world’s greatest structures, such as, the Great Wall of China, the Pyramids, and the Kremlin. Further up Michigan Avenue is the Chicago Water Tower, one of only a few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Its juxtaposition next to skyscrapers is dramatic and noteworthy. A bit further down the avenue, on the right, is the John Hancock Building. If you didn’t view the city from the Sears Tower, you have another opportunity here. The Observatory is on the 94th floor. Continue up Michigan to Oak Street and take a right. Cross Lake Shore Drive to the Oak Street Beach, a great place for a picnic or a swim, or just to people-watch and relax. When finished at the beach, follow Lake Shore Drive south along the Lake Michigan coastline. About ½ mile ahead, on the left, is the Navy Pier, originally an amusement park, now a complete family activity center. Returning to Lake Shore Drive, take a left and continue south past Millennium Park and into Grant Park again. When you reach Roosevelt Road, you are approaching a cluster of world-class science museums. Learn about the natural sciences at the Field Museum; see a huge variety of aquatic animals at the John G Shedd Aquarium; and explore the heavens at the Adler Planetarium. When you reach the latter, there is an excellent view of the magnificent Chicago skyline. The view is even better at night. Return to Lake Shore Drive, turn right and walk back to Grant Park where the walking tour began. 11 septembre Walking Tour of Rothenburg, Germany Walking Tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
This wonderful town on the Romantic Road is considered by many to be the best-preserved Medieval town in all of Europe. It is an extremely charming walled village with cobblestone streets and well-kept homes and businesses. The only problem here is that it was discovered long ago by tourists and can get incredibly crowded, especially during the summer time. The best ways to avoid the hordes is to get to town early in the day or to spend the night since most visitors are day-trippers.
Begin the walk at the Marktplatz, market square and the central gathering place in the town. The dominant building here is the Rathaus, City Hall, part of which dates to 1240 AD. Climb the Tower for views of the walled city. From here travel south on Schmiedgasse toward Sieber's Tower (a guard tower) where the street becomes Spitalgasse and leads to the Spital Bastion at the southernmost part of town. From here begin a walk of the city walls, heading northwest back toward the center of town. Pass Kobolzeller Gate and continue to Burg Gate at the far western end of town. Here you may continue your circuit around town along the walls or go back down to ground level to walk the streets. (This tour will do the latter).
From the Burg Gate head eastward along Herrngasse. Check out the Puppet Theater on the left and then stop at Franziskkirche, one of the town's main churches. Continuing on Herrngasse, just before you reach the Marktplatz, stop in at Christmas Village to browse this most interesting shop. Then continue eastward past the main square to Markus Tower, another of the guard towers within the city walls and onward toward the Roder Gate. Just before the gate, take a left on Rosengasse and walk to Galgengasse. Looking to the right, you will see the Gallows Gate, but turn left and head back toward the center of town passing beneath the White Tower enroute. The street becomes Klostergasse and leads to St Jacobkirche on your right. Be sure to check out the interior of this important church whose altar was made by Tilman Riemenschneider, famed sculptor from Wurzburg.
From here, if you have not seen enough of the city gates take a right onto Klingengasse and head for the Klingen Gate. Otherwise, continue straight on Klostergasse and then turn left when you reach the city walls. Pass the Burg Gate and then continue south taking a left on Burggasse. Notice the Kriminal Museum at #3 Burggasse. If you are interested in torture and Medieval punishments, this is the only museum of its type in Europe. After your visit continue on Burggasse and then take a left on Schmiedgasse to get back to Market Square and the walk's origin. 10 septembre Walking Tour of San Juan, Puerto Rico The quaint Old Town of San Juan, Puerto Rico is a vintage Spanish American community and is loaded with enough attractions, restaurants, and shops to warrant at least a full day of sightseeing.
My walk begins at the cruise ship docks, at the south end of the city, since most visitors arrive this way. Turn left (west) at the road (Calle Concepcion de Garcia) which leads to a cute little square and the Tourist Office. Stop here to get a map of the Old Town before proceeding.
From the entrance to the Tourist Office, turn left. Admire the pastel-colored Custom House to your left, on the water. Turn right and enter the large Plaza de la Marina which marks the eastern end of one of the city's wonderful promenades, the Paseo la Princessa. Enter this attractive, tree-lined walkway and walk west, noticing several interesting sculptures. The building on the right side (La Princessa) was once a dreaded prison.
Continue to the beautiful, elaborate fountain, which is entitled Roots and depicts the origins of modern-day Puerto Ricans, with dolphins at their feet.
Turn right at the fountain and follow the seaside promenade which winds along the formidable City Walls. As you pass through the San Juan Gate, turn right onto Calle Recinta del Oeste. At the end of the street, the guarded gates mark the entrance to the Governor's residence, La Fortaleza.
Retrace your steps and continue on Recinta del Oeste. Bear left when you reach Caleta de las Monjas and find yourself in a small square (Plazuela de la Rogativa). Continue parallel to the City Walls to the fork. Bear right and pass La Casa Rosada, a pink villa. Continue up the steep ramp, then cross the field to El Morro (Castillo de San Felipe del Morro). Visit the fortress, admiring, in particular, its dramatic location on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Exit the fort via Calle del Morro to its end at a plaza. The pastel buildings on the right include Casa Blanca, built by Ponce de Leon's son-in-law for him (although he never actually lived here).
From here, travel eastward on Calle San Sebastian to the Plaza de San Jose and its much more modern neighbor, Quincentennial Plaza. Wander both squares and be sure to check out Inglesia San Jose, one of the oldest Christian churches in the New World, built in 1532.
Exit the square at its southwestern end and walk downhill on Calle Cristo. On the left, a few blocks down, is the Cathedral of St John, where Ponce de Leon's remains are entombed. Continue south, then turn left onto Calle Fortaleza and left again on Calle San Jose. On your right is the Plaza de Armas, the original main square of the city. Check out the "Four Seasons" fountain and San Juan's City Hall (Alcaldia).
Leave the square by heading east on Calle San Francisco which brings you to Plaza de Colon. The stone column in the square has a statue of Christopher Columbus. Continue east on Calle San Francisco, then turn left onto Boulevard del Valle. On the right is San Juan's other famous fort, Fuerte San Cristobal.
When your visit to the fortress is concluded, head back down the boulevard, past Plaza de Colon, then right on Calle Fortaleza, then left on Calle Tanca and back to the pier. 9 septembre Walking Tour of Brussels, Belgium Brussels is the capital and most-visited city in Belgium. Despite being fairly large, the City Center is fairly compact and relatively pleasant to walk. It has always been a great center for trade, and, even in the Middle Ages housed the Guild Houses which were the headquarters for the producers of goods throughout Europe.
Begin the walk at the Grand Place, one of the most beautiful and elegant squares in all of Europe. Besides the regal, Gothic Town Hall, the square is lined with many of the Guild Houses which made this city a commercial center. Check out Le Cornet, the Guiild house of boatmen at #6, Le Revard, the Haberdasher's Guild house, at #7, Le Cygne, at #9, where the Butcher's met, and Maison du Brasseurs, the Brewer's Guild house at #10. These are just a few. The houses are all spectacularly decorated and gilded to the nines since there was always competition to prove that one group or another was the most prosperous. In mid-August, every other year, part of the square is carpeted with flowers which makes for an incredible scene.
From the square leave on Rue Charles Buls and travel southwest for several blocks to reach the unimposing statue of Manneken Pis, the symbol of the city. This small statue of a boy peeing is perhaps the epitome of the Belgian people's irreverence. Turn left at the statue and proceed up Rue du Chene which changes names several times before reaching the Place du Grand-Sablon, a square which has numerous antique shops and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Notre-Dame-du-Sablon Church which dates to the 15th century and is an excellent example of the flambouyant Gothic style.
Next, cross the Rue de la Regence and arrive at the charming Place du Petit-Sablon which is very attractively landscaped with shrubs and grass, surrounded by a wrought fence bearing a large number of bronze statues, reminiscent of the Medieval guilds of Brussels. There are also several statues in this square, which is a particularly lovely place to sit in solitude for a time.
After investigating this interesting square, go back to Rue de la Regence, turn left and walk about 300 meters to the regal and stately Palais de Justice. From here walk back down Rue de la Regence to the large open space known as Place Royale. The equestrian statue in the square memorializes the leader of the First Crusade, Duke Godefroid de Bouillion. Continue straight then take the first right onto Place des Palais and view the magnificent Royal Palace. Walk straight across the large park in front of the palace, then turn left on Wetstraat which becomes Rue des Colonies, then turn right onto Rue de la Chancelerie to the Cathedral. From here take St Goedelestraat which then becomes Rue de la Montagne and finally brings you back to Grand Place. 8 septembre Walking Tour of Avila, Spain Northwest of Madrid is a city recognized as having the best-preserved Medieval city walls in all of Europe. The city of Avila is also famous as the birthplace of St Teresa who is a well-known mystic in the Catholic Church and who founded a number of convents throughout Spain. The city center is extremely pleasant to stroll and a walk on the walls produces some spectacular views of the city within and the countryside beyond.
Begin the walk in the Plaza and Parque de San Vicente, just outside the city walls in the northwest corner of the city center. Before entering the centro, check out the Basilica de San Vicente, one of the city's most beautiful churches. Then cross the plaza and proceed through the walls at the Puerta de San Vicente, the most impressive of the city's nine gates. Turn left immediately and walk along Del Tostado to Avila's imposing Cathedral, built right into the walls and forming part of the fortifications.
From the Cathedral, turn left and hug the walls of the Cathedral and walk along Calle Cruz Vieja to admire the Puerta del Alcazar, another entryway into the city. From here take Calle Generalisimo Franco then turn left and cross the square to the east to St Ignacius of Loyola Church. Pass the church and Episcopal Palace on the Plaza y Deniel to the Palacio de los Davila. Around the palace and a little further southward is the Plaza General Mola.
From here take Madre Soledad into Saint Teresa Square and the Convent of St Teresa. Here in the plaza there are tributes to this "favorite daughter" everywhere. At the nearby Puerta de Santa Teresa, you can climb up and begin a walk of the walls. The entire circuit is just over a mile long and worth it if you have time. At least walk back to the Puerta de San Vicente, where you entered the city, by using the walls, to get some interesting glimpses of city life below.
Before leaving be sure to drive around the city to see the incredible walls from the outside. A Walking Tour of Florence, Italy Walking Tour of Florence
Florence, Italy is the cradle of the Renaissance and, as such, probably has more masterpieces from this period concentrated in its Centro than anywhere else in the world. Fortunately, the city center is fairly compact, allowing visitors to see the best of the city in just a few days. My walking tour incorporates what I consider to be the top attractions of Florence. Because of the many stops, this walk should be stretched out to last at least two days since much of each day will be spent in museums.
Begin at the Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore), a symbol of the city and one of the most beautiful churches in the world. The pink, green and white marble of the exterior is positively stunning. Brunnelleschi's famous orange-tiled dome was the largest of its kind when built in 1463 AD. Across from the main entrance is the Baptistry, with its incredible East Doors designed by Ghiberti, may have been constructed in the 4th century AD. The Campanile was built by Giotto, another Renaissance heavy-weight.
From the Piazza del Duomo, take Via Ricasoli north to the Galleria dell'Accademia which contains Michelangelo's orginal David sculpture, perhaps the most famous sculpture in the world. Order tickets ahead since this is one of Florence's most popular attractions. After your visit, retrace your steps back toward the Duomo, then turn right onto Via de Pucci which leads to the Piazza de San Lorenzo and the San Lorenzo Church which contains the Medici Chapel and other designs by Michelangelo.
When finished, leave the church and turn left (west) from the piazza on Via del Canto di Medici, then left again on Via del Giglio. Continue to the Via dei Bianchi and take a right. Cross the busy area ahead to reach the Piazza di Santa Maria Novella which contains another well-known church, Santa Maria Novella. The distinctive green and white stripes and its unusual facade design simply entice visitors to enter the beautiful Gothic interior with its famous frescoes.
Exit and turn right onto Via Degli Avelli which changes names several times before it ends at Via della Spada. Turn left here and again at Via Degli Strozzi which brings you to the Piazza della Repubblica, site of the old Roman Forum. Continue straight across the square and walk eastward on Via del Speziali, then turn right on Via del Calzaiuoli which empties into Florence's most famous square, Piazza della Signoria. This gathering place is renowned because of the scultures which decorate its southern section. Here visitors will find a copy of Michelangelo's David, Cellini's Perseus, Giambologna's Rape of the Sabine Women, and the distinctive Neptune fountain. Also on the square is Florence's Town Hall, the Palazzo Vecchio which sits next to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world's most important museums (once again, be sure to get tickets prior to your arrival to avoid the long lines).
After the museum visit, continue southward beside the Uffizi to the river. Turn right and walk along the Arno admiring the distinctive Ponte Vecchio, a covered bridge over the river lined with shops.
If time permits, cross the bridge and walk uphill alongside the Via de'Guicciardini to the Pitti Palace and its grounds, the Boboli Gardens. Otherwise walk back along the northern bank of the river, eastward, then turn left at the next bridge, on the Via de' Benci which leads to the Piazza di Santa Croce and Florence's second most famous church, Santa Croce. The building resembles the Duomo but is noteworthy more for the people buried inside. Here are the tombs of famous Florentines like Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Ghiberti. Rossini and a beautiful monument to Dante Alighieri, author of the Divine Comedy.
From here, walk westward from the piazza on Via dell' Anguillara, then turn right on Via del Proconsolo. Another famous museum, the Bargello is on the right. It contains more Renaissance masterpieces such as, Donatello's David, and Giambologna's Mercury. After your visit turn right and this street will lead back to the rear of the Duomo, the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo and the starting point of the walk. |
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