A trip to the charming city of Seattle is lots of fun, if you're prepared for the inevitable rain. This city is notorious for wet weather year-round, but you really shouldn't let that stop you from seeing all the wonderful things Seattle has to offer. It's a unique, beautiful and very enjoyable city. Plus, all that rain makes the landscape greener than green, which only adds to its charm. Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Seattle.
1. The Space Needle in Seattle Center. It would be unthinkable to visit Seattle and not see its most famous landmark, built in 1962 for the World Expo and towering 600-plus feet into the sky.
You can enjoy a delicious lunch, brunch or romantic dinner in the revolving restaurant at the top. Or, just ride the amazingly fast elevator up to the 360-degree observation deck where a panorama of snow-capped mountains and other majestic sights will take your breath away. On a clear day, you really can see "forever" from the top of the Needle! Of course, the complimentary high-powered telescopes help a little.
2. In addition to the Space Needle, Seattle Center has many other things that are worth checking out. Theatre, ballet, opera, rock 'n' roll history, science, movies, shopping and exploring are all found in Seattle Center. I'm a kid at heart, and my favorite is the Fun Forest Amusement Park. This "playground for all ages" has 19 rides and an assortment of games. You can get an adrenaline rush on the roller coaster, take a spin on the carousel, or try to win a prize on the midway. Fun Forest also features the Entertainment Pavilion, open daily year-round with laser tag, mini-golf, games and three rides.
3. The Seattle Waterfront on Alaskan Way. Spectacular scenery, tacky-but-fun tourist shops and the Alaskan Way Viaduct thundering overhead make this a memorable place to see. The old streetcar clangs along the length of the waterfront, and the Bainbridge Island ferry leaves from Colman Dock. Also worth a visit if you have the time are the Seattle Aquarium and the Odyssey Maritime Discovery Center. Whatever you do, don't pass up the incredibly tasty fish and fried clams from the streetside fish-n-chips stand.
4. Pike Place Market is another of Seattle's most famous landmarks. What originally began as an impromptu farmer's market 100 years ago, has morphed into a venerable and impressive marketplace that encompasses 23 buildings and eight city blocks. Produce stands are still an important part of the market's offerings. Added to the eclectic mix are fishmongers, florists, bakeries, bars and quirky merchants with unique handmade wares. The only chain stores allowed are Starbucks and Sur La Table. Both of these opened their first retail outlets at Pike Place long before they became nationally recognized brands.
5. The Underground Tour of historic Pioneer Square. Tromping through the subterranean passages of Seattle's oldest neighborhood while an offbeat tour guide entertains you with humorous stories of Seattle's colorful history, is truly an unforgettable adventure. This leisurely walking tour starts inside Doc Maynard's, a restored 1890s saloon, and traverses about three blocks. It's all underground of course, so save this one for a rainy day!
Seattle is a great vacation destination despite the rain. Who knows, you might even get lucky and experience a dry spell during your trip. Pack your raincoat, umbrella and rain boots "just in case," and get ready to have a wonderful time in the beautiful city of Seattle.
Source Published by Julia Williams - Voices.yahoo.com
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Atlanta, USA Travel
Welcome to Atlanta, I'm going to share with you today my best kept secrets for experiencing this great city. Everyone knows about the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest in the world but did you also know that it's one of only a handful of places in the world where you can swim or SCUBA dive with whale sharks, and the only place in the U.S. The 2 1/2-hour experience takes place daily; guests can also enjoy encounters with beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters and penguins. Our next secret stop is a gourmet fruit house and market located in Atlanta's Old fourth Ward neighborhood.
There's another location at the Atlanta Airport At Lotta Frutta they've got the classics, but it's the exotic options that make this space so hot, like the spicy Limonatta fruit cup, which combines cantaloupe, coconut, cucumber, pineapple, watermelon, mango and papaya with fresh limejuice and the owner's signature spicy chile guajilo. There's also Cuban-inspired grilled "sanduches," salads, smoothies, ice pops and coffee.
We love this place. Here's another travel secret for Atlanta. To See Shakespeare done right you don't have to go to London's Globe Theatre. That's right Atlanta's new American Shakespeare Tavern has a theatrical approach called 'Original Practice' whereby each production is staged as it would have been in its own time. In other words, live sound effects, period music on appropriate instruments and Elizabethan-style costumes. And not mention, talented actors! You can eat here before the show and there's beer and wine too.
It's one of Atlanta's most beautiful parks, so why does nobody know about it? Maybe because of its secluded location at the heart of Emory University's campus (I guess the students don't want to share). But this 154-acre park, is a must-see, featuring miles of walking and jogging trails, a 210-foot suspension bridge, and a beautiful lake the views of the Emory president's home. Ok we've saved our best selection for last. Atlanta has a great nightlife scene but mix and mingle at the most scenic and beautiful cocktail party in the city— no invitation required! The Atlanta Botanical Garden's Cocktails in the Garden series, takes place every Thursday evening May-September, features food, drinks, live music and one heck of a gorgeous setting.
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| Atlanta, USA| |
There's another location at the Atlanta Airport At Lotta Frutta they've got the classics, but it's the exotic options that make this space so hot, like the spicy Limonatta fruit cup, which combines cantaloupe, coconut, cucumber, pineapple, watermelon, mango and papaya with fresh limejuice and the owner's signature spicy chile guajilo. There's also Cuban-inspired grilled "sanduches," salads, smoothies, ice pops and coffee.
We love this place. Here's another travel secret for Atlanta. To See Shakespeare done right you don't have to go to London's Globe Theatre. That's right Atlanta's new American Shakespeare Tavern has a theatrical approach called 'Original Practice' whereby each production is staged as it would have been in its own time. In other words, live sound effects, period music on appropriate instruments and Elizabethan-style costumes. And not mention, talented actors! You can eat here before the show and there's beer and wine too.
It's one of Atlanta's most beautiful parks, so why does nobody know about it? Maybe because of its secluded location at the heart of Emory University's campus (I guess the students don't want to share). But this 154-acre park, is a must-see, featuring miles of walking and jogging trails, a 210-foot suspension bridge, and a beautiful lake the views of the Emory president's home. Ok we've saved our best selection for last. Atlanta has a great nightlife scene but mix and mingle at the most scenic and beautiful cocktail party in the city— no invitation required! The Atlanta Botanical Garden's Cocktails in the Garden series, takes place every Thursday evening May-September, features food, drinks, live music and one heck of a gorgeous setting.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Chicago travel
Chicago is situated in the Great Lakes region of the American Midwest, in the state of Illinois. Rising from the edges of Lake Michigan, Chicago began as a tiny trading post at the mouth of the Chicago River, and has boomed into a modern global center of commerce and culture. The Windy City has always been driven by an unshakable optimism and can-do attitude. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed half the city, was seized upon as an opportunity for the metropolis to reinvent itself. What followed was the biggest building boom in US history and a skyline that is almost beyond beautiful. Start your visit in The Loop - the central business district encircled by the 'L', Chicago's elevated train line.
The streets within The Loop are a showcase of architecture, from the world's first high-rises, to the cloud-piercing towers of today. Willis Tower held the title of world's tallest building for almost 25 years. Take the 60-second ride to the Skydeck. On a really windy day you might even feel the building sway a little, but don't panic, it was designed to do just that. The Loop also contains some amazing outdoor sculpture and an historic theater district which makes the area feel like a cross between a museum and a film set. Running north from The Loop is the Magnificent Mile, where you'll be able to gaze up at even more wonders from the Chicago School of architecture. Looking a little out of place is the Old Water Tower, a lone, but much-loved survivor from the Chicago Fire.
Shop 'til you drop in the upscale boutiques which line The Magnificent Mile's wide boulevards. And when it's time to refuel, sink your teeth into a deep dish pizza - an old Chicago favorite. Following the south bank of the Chicago River and winding between the canyons of glass and steel, The Riverwalk offers a relaxing change of pace from the downtown bustle. Still within The Loop is Millennium Park. Once the site of railway yards and car parks, the area has been transformed into what critics have hailed as 'the future of parks'. The centerpieces of this visionary space are the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the BP Footbridge. The park showcases a number of public sculptures, including a futuristic stainless steel archway to the city, Cloud Gate, or as it's affectionately known to locals 'The Bean'. Just across the road is The Art Institute of Chicago whose exterior is a work of art in itself. Set aside at least a day to explore this treasure-house of European, American and Asian masterpieces.
There are plenty of treasures to be found outside The Loop. Just to the west is one of Chicago's hidden gems, the Garfield Park Conservatory, an inner-city haven for nature lovers and a first-date favorite for Chicago couples. In nearby Oak Park, step inside Frank Lloyd Wright's home and studio, where for 20 years he pioneered an entirely new architectural vision for America. Unity Temple is just a short stroll away. Completed in 1908, this Lloyd Wright masterpiece is widely regarded as the world's first modern building. While you're in Oak Park, stop by the birthplace of one of Chicago's most famous sons, Ernest Hemingway. In the nearby museum, fans of the novelist can read from his childhood diary and original manuscripts. Down by The Loop's waterfront, the historic Navy Pier offers entertainment for all ages. The pier is also the place to climb aboard one of the many lake and river cruises on offer.
Just south of Navy Pier, The Field Museum houses over 20 million specimens from the world of natural history. Say hello to Sue, the largest and most intact skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex ever unearthed. The museum might look a little familiar, after all, it was the home base for Indiana Jones in the blockbuster movie series. A little further south along the waterfront you'll find the Museum of Science and Industry known by generations of school children as 'the best field trip ever!'. Here you'll get to explore the inner workings of man and machine, and discover the secrets of natural phenomena like tornadoes, lightning and avalanches. Chicago's largest green space is Lincoln Park, a seven mile stretch of shoreline which runs north from The Loop.
It's home to nature reserves, a conservatory, and monuments to many of the nation's heroes, including the park's namesake - Abraham Lincoln. The park also features the Lincoln Park Zoo which has been entertaining and educating visitors since 1868. The zoo features two sections specifically designed for children, and best of all it's free. The park is also home to the Chicago History Museum. From gangsters to baseball, this is the place to visit if you really want to know what makes this unique city tick. As the sun sets, Chicago truly lights up. But don't plan on going to bed early, the city offers some of the best jazz, blues and theater in America. So come on over to Chicago, the memories you'll
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| Chicago travel |
The streets within The Loop are a showcase of architecture, from the world's first high-rises, to the cloud-piercing towers of today. Willis Tower held the title of world's tallest building for almost 25 years. Take the 60-second ride to the Skydeck. On a really windy day you might even feel the building sway a little, but don't panic, it was designed to do just that. The Loop also contains some amazing outdoor sculpture and an historic theater district which makes the area feel like a cross between a museum and a film set. Running north from The Loop is the Magnificent Mile, where you'll be able to gaze up at even more wonders from the Chicago School of architecture. Looking a little out of place is the Old Water Tower, a lone, but much-loved survivor from the Chicago Fire.
Shop 'til you drop in the upscale boutiques which line The Magnificent Mile's wide boulevards. And when it's time to refuel, sink your teeth into a deep dish pizza - an old Chicago favorite. Following the south bank of the Chicago River and winding between the canyons of glass and steel, The Riverwalk offers a relaxing change of pace from the downtown bustle. Still within The Loop is Millennium Park. Once the site of railway yards and car parks, the area has been transformed into what critics have hailed as 'the future of parks'. The centerpieces of this visionary space are the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the BP Footbridge. The park showcases a number of public sculptures, including a futuristic stainless steel archway to the city, Cloud Gate, or as it's affectionately known to locals 'The Bean'. Just across the road is The Art Institute of Chicago whose exterior is a work of art in itself. Set aside at least a day to explore this treasure-house of European, American and Asian masterpieces.
There are plenty of treasures to be found outside The Loop. Just to the west is one of Chicago's hidden gems, the Garfield Park Conservatory, an inner-city haven for nature lovers and a first-date favorite for Chicago couples. In nearby Oak Park, step inside Frank Lloyd Wright's home and studio, where for 20 years he pioneered an entirely new architectural vision for America. Unity Temple is just a short stroll away. Completed in 1908, this Lloyd Wright masterpiece is widely regarded as the world's first modern building. While you're in Oak Park, stop by the birthplace of one of Chicago's most famous sons, Ernest Hemingway. In the nearby museum, fans of the novelist can read from his childhood diary and original manuscripts. Down by The Loop's waterfront, the historic Navy Pier offers entertainment for all ages. The pier is also the place to climb aboard one of the many lake and river cruises on offer.
Just south of Navy Pier, The Field Museum houses over 20 million specimens from the world of natural history. Say hello to Sue, the largest and most intact skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex ever unearthed. The museum might look a little familiar, after all, it was the home base for Indiana Jones in the blockbuster movie series. A little further south along the waterfront you'll find the Museum of Science and Industry known by generations of school children as 'the best field trip ever!'. Here you'll get to explore the inner workings of man and machine, and discover the secrets of natural phenomena like tornadoes, lightning and avalanches. Chicago's largest green space is Lincoln Park, a seven mile stretch of shoreline which runs north from The Loop.
It's home to nature reserves, a conservatory, and monuments to many of the nation's heroes, including the park's namesake - Abraham Lincoln. The park also features the Lincoln Park Zoo which has been entertaining and educating visitors since 1868. The zoo features two sections specifically designed for children, and best of all it's free. The park is also home to the Chicago History Museum. From gangsters to baseball, this is the place to visit if you really want to know what makes this unique city tick. As the sun sets, Chicago truly lights up. But don't plan on going to bed early, the city offers some of the best jazz, blues and theater in America. So come on over to Chicago, the memories you'll
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Brooklyn , USA Travel
Just south of Manhattan, on Long Island, Brooklyn is the most populous of New York City's five boroughs. Steeped in history, Brooklyn was the very first settlement in what is now the state of New York. Brooklyn Heights is one of the richer neighbourhoods in the borough. It's a quaint yet thriving pocket of New York, thanks to the contrast of brownstone buildings and a thriving shopping district.
The centrepiece of Brooklyn Heights is the 85-acre Brooklyn Bridge Park. Take a stroll along the waterfront, and you will see some spectacular views of downtown New York City. At almost 6000 feet long, Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most recognisable landmarks in New York City. It spans the East River, connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan, and is crossed by some 4000 pedestrians every day. Further south, 600-acre Prospect Park has something for everyone.
Popular pastimes include relaxing on the green expanses of Long Meadow, cycling and jogging on one of the many paths and bikeways, and enjoying the wildlife on Prospect Lake. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Coney Island was once the largest amusement area in the United States. Some iconic attractions and stores remain today, including Nathan's Famous hot dogs and The Cyclone. The 2.5-mile boardwalk on Coney Island backs down onto pristine sandy beaches.
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| Brooklyn , USA Travel |
The centrepiece of Brooklyn Heights is the 85-acre Brooklyn Bridge Park. Take a stroll along the waterfront, and you will see some spectacular views of downtown New York City. At almost 6000 feet long, Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most recognisable landmarks in New York City. It spans the East River, connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan, and is crossed by some 4000 pedestrians every day. Further south, 600-acre Prospect Park has something for everyone.
Popular pastimes include relaxing on the green expanses of Long Meadow, cycling and jogging on one of the many paths and bikeways, and enjoying the wildlife on Prospect Lake. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Coney Island was once the largest amusement area in the United States. Some iconic attractions and stores remain today, including Nathan's Famous hot dogs and The Cyclone. The 2.5-mile boardwalk on Coney Island backs down onto pristine sandy beaches.
Central Park, New York
New York's Central Park is a network of meadows, gardens and
lakes which spans more than 50 city blocks. Central Park was America's first
great urban park, created as a place where people from all walks of life could
mingle and meditate.
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| Central Park, New York |
150 years on, and surrounded by wall-to-wall skyscrapers of Manhattan, Central Park now attracts over 30 million visitors a year. From wild, rambling paths to manicured avenues and lawns, Central Park is a place of many moods. It offers generous open spaces, like the Great Lawn, and smaller treasures too, like the many sculptures and bridges which dot the park.
Follow The Mall to
the park's elegant centerpiece, the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace, a location
made famous by countless movies. Nearby at the Loeb Boathouse, hire a boat and
take a romantic row around the lake, or rent a remote control sailboat and
cruise the Conservatory Waters with New York's model boat enthusiasts.
Rising over the woodlands, Belvedere Castle offers great
views of the park. While right next door is the Shakespeare Garden, where many
of the plants and flowers from the playwright's works spring to life. Join
Beatles fans in the Strawberry Fields Memorial Garden which celebrates the life
of one of New York's most famous residents, John Lennon.
Before you leave, say
a little thank you to New York's city fathers for their enduring vision - a
vision which has made this dynamic metropolis so livable. Central Park, a place
where New Yorkers and visitors alike can breathe, and simply be.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Some USA travel Note
If you're coming into the US on a visa make sure that you understand the conditions of that visa and also, most importantly, understand when the visa is going to expire. If this is your first visit, much will be familiar about the United States but there are some important differences.
For example, there are different layers of policing in the US, including for example, university campus police. The legal drinking age in the US is 21, not 18. Underage drinking is taken very seriously and if you're under the age of 21 and caught drinking you can face severe fines or even a night or two in jail.
You should always make sure you take out comprehensive travel insurance too. Medical expenses can be huge over here and I'm aware of cases where people have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars out of their own pocket covering medical bills because they either didn't have travel insurance or they didn't have the right type of insurance. There's a saying in the travel business actually, if you can't afford the travel insurance then you can't afford to travel.
While travelling it's a good idea to keep your friends and family well informed of where you're going and that way if there's an emergency either here or at home we'd be able to locate you quickly. If there is an emergency such as say an earthquake, then you should always follow the instructions of the local authorities. I hope you find those tips useful.
Safe travels!
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| White house |
For example, there are different layers of policing in the US, including for example, university campus police. The legal drinking age in the US is 21, not 18. Underage drinking is taken very seriously and if you're under the age of 21 and caught drinking you can face severe fines or even a night or two in jail.
You should always make sure you take out comprehensive travel insurance too. Medical expenses can be huge over here and I'm aware of cases where people have spent hundreds of thousands of dollars out of their own pocket covering medical bills because they either didn't have travel insurance or they didn't have the right type of insurance. There's a saying in the travel business actually, if you can't afford the travel insurance then you can't afford to travel.
While travelling it's a good idea to keep your friends and family well informed of where you're going and that way if there's an emergency either here or at home we'd be able to locate you quickly. If there is an emergency such as say an earthquake, then you should always follow the instructions of the local authorities. I hope you find those tips useful.
Safe travels!
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