Category: Travelogue

Tour Athens Greece and Be Amazed!

by Heather Anne • August 11, 2020

The Parthenon at Night

Tour Athens Greece and Be Amazed!

To tour Athens, Greece is to journey back in time to the ancient soul of this timeless city. Athens may be a huge metropolis, but many of its neighborhoods have a peaceful, village feel. There are many oases to which to escape and ponder the wisdom of the philosophers. Aristotle wrote, “Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” This quote beautifully illustrates Athens. She has a single soul inhabiting both the ancient and the modern bodies. Her spirit of curiosity and innovative thinking are timeless.

The Parthenon by Day

The Parthenon

The iconic Parthenon is the symbol of Athens. Also known as the “Temple of Athena,” it stands proudly atop the Acropolis Hill. At this towering height it overlooks the entire city. It’s a constant remembrance of Athens’ illustrious past. The Greeks finished the Parthenon in 437 BC. It was a tribute to Athens’ patron goddess Athena. Unfortunately, the Parthenon was heavily damaged in 1687. At that time the Venetians besieged the Ottoman ammunition storage post here. But its beauty continues, scars and all. You can visit the Parthenon today, if you’re willing to brave the lines and make the trek up Acropolis Hill. Visiting Athens without a stop at the Parthenon is unthinkable!

The Erechtheion and Caryatids

While you’re up on Acropolis Hill, don’t miss the Erechtheion and Caryatids. The Erechtheion, constructed in the early 400s BC, may have been a tribute to King Erechtheus. It was used as a temple to the goddess Athena. The structure housed a statue of her. She was Athens’ patron goddess, and the namesake of the city. The Caryatids inhabit the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion. These six women serve as pillars. But they are distinctly different from the doric, ionic, and corinthian orders of pillars more commonly found in the ancient world. Caryatids were notably used within structures serving treasury purposes. Here they stand, timelessly guarding this ancient sanctuary, in all their stunning beauty.

The Parliament building, Syntagma Square

The Parliament Building, Syntagma Square

Syntagma Square, also known as Constitution Square, is the central square in Athens. It was unveiled in the early nineteenth century. Syntagma Square has been a core meeting place and transportation headquarters ever since. Wide open spaces cancel claustrophobia, and Athenians conduct their business and pleasure with the beautiful backdrop of the Parliament building. Also known as the Hellenic Parliament, 300 elected members meet here to administer, in a democratic republic governing system that has stood the test of time from Athens’ ancient roots. Not to mention a system which has influenced government functioning all over the world up to the modern day.

The Acropolis Theatre

The Acropolis Theatre, also known as the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, was finished in 161 AD. This impressive structure could hold up to 5,000 spectators in its heyday. The Germanic tribe of “barbarian” Heruli demolished it in 267 AD. At that time they were ravaging the ancient Roman Empire across the European continent. Greece was part of the Roman Empire from 146 BC to 330 AD, beginning with the Battle of Corinth. Magnificent views of the city can be had from this high perch. Whether there’s a show going on upon the stage or not, enjoy the show of Athens’ fascinating daily life down below from these elevated stands.

Charming Plaka Neighborhood (Old Town)

Quaint Plaka Neighborhood

The “old town” in Athens exists in what is called the “Plaka” neighborhood. This quaint labyrinth of a village provides a peaceful respite from the boisterous downtown of the city. Here you’ll climb steep, narrow steps that weave their way through cute little houses. Pots of brilliantly colored flowers decorate and perfume the whitewashed path. So to really enjoy this neighborhood, let yourself get lost, and have fun navigating your way out! Consequently, by the end you’ll have a hearty appetite, and will have the perfect excuse to indulge in a delicious Greek lunch!

Pork Souvlaki Lunch Break

Delicious Grilled Meat Treat

Athens is well-known for their street food, particularly their succulent grilled meat kabobs. Thus, you’ll want to stop for Souvlaki or a Gyro for a quick treat. Or relax and enjoy some people-watching while you alfresco dine on delicious Greek specialties like Moussaka and Pastisio under the radiant Greek sun. Want something lighter? Go for some fresh Greek yogurt with honey. And wash it all down with an Ouzo, a local licorice-flavored alcoholic beverage. Then you’ll have the stamina to tackle Athens’ impressive museums.

The National Archaeological Museum

National Archaeological Museum

Given Greece’s esteemed history, it’s no surprise that her museums pack a punch. The National Archaeological Museum is Greece’s largest museum. Housed here are some of the most archetypal artifacts from the ancient Roman, Egyptian, and, above all Greek, worlds. See sculpture, metalwork, ceramics and more in this sizable museum. This is one of the world’s finest museums. It’s assuredly worth a stop on your tour of Athens, Greece.

The Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is located next to Acropolis Hill. Hence, you can enjoy views of the Parthenon through gigantic glass walls here. The Greeks built this new structure in 2019. It was an attempt to persuade the British to return the “Elgin Marbles.” The Elgin Marbles are sculptures taken by British archaeologist Lord Elgin from the Parthenon in the early 1800s. Significantly, he carted about half of them back to Britain. Subsequently, he sold them to the British Museum, where they remain now. After that, the British argued that the Greeks didn’t have a suitable location to display the marbles. So the Greeks built this beautiful museum for that purpose. It’s a brilliant location within sight of the Parthenon, notably the original structure that housed it. And it’s within view from inside the museum where the sculptures would be displayed. But did the British return them after that? No…

Character is Destiny

Heraclitus wrote that “Character is destiny.” Undoubtedly, Athens’ character has been her destiny as one of the most alluring cities in the world. As a result, I hope you enjoyed my article on this captivating city. Finally, what do you think? Should Britain return the Elgin Marbles to Greece? Next, do you think Britain should be compensated in any way? On the other hand, should the marbles stay in the British Museum? Leave a comment with your thoughts, below. If you have an opinion, I’d love to hear it!

Tour More of Athens

Do you want to tour even more Athens via video? Consequently I have a full video tour on my YouTube channel here!:

And for more Greece:

Tour Rhodes Greece!

And for more travel around the world, check out my YouTube channel at:

Ultimate Travel Adventures YouTube Channel

Travelogue

Tour Rhodes Greece!

by Heather Anne • August 4, 2020

Rhodes City Walls

The Island of the Knights

Tour Rhodes, Greece and you’ll quickly see why many call it “the island of the knights!” The Knights of Saint John of Jerusalem controlled the island from 1310 to 1522, and they definitely left their mark on this amazing place. Massive stone walls surround the Old Town area in near pristine condition. This World Heritage Site has maintained the historical integrity of the area. You can take a step back in time, surrounded by history, untarnished by the modern sprawl. Stone pathways lead you through a labyrinth of peaceful passageways you want to get lost in!

Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes

Medieval Castle Culture

The most prominent structure in town is the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. The Byzantines built this Gothic castle and fortress in the 7th century. Beautiful mosaics carpet the building. Meanwhile, a forest of archways, arcades, statues, and columns guide the way through. There’s so much to explore among this citadel of stone. The Palace is open to the public, and many guided tour options are available. So feel free to unleash your inner knight and storm the castle!

Temple of Apollo

Tour Rhodes’ Ancient Ruins

The island of Rhodes is littered with ancient ruins. In fact, there’s everything from complete villages to single structures scattered throughout the island. During my visit, restorations were being made to the Temple of Apollo on the Acropolis of Rhodes, up on the island’s highest point. Aphodite, Zeus, and Athena boast their own temples on the island as well. And at Ancient Kamiros and the archaeological site at Lindos provide an even more comprehensive look at an Ancient Greek community.

What’s Left of Colossus of Rhodes

The Colossus of Rhodes

Rhodes was an important hub of activity in the ancient world long before the Crusaders. You can view what’s left of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Colossus of Rhodes at the port, and imagine the Greek deity Helios straddling the platforms and guarding the harbor. Wondering where the towering Helios is now? It’s thought he fell victim to earthquakes around 225bc. There are talks in the works of a possible rebuild of Helios, at five times the original height! I’m not sure how I feel about this prospect. Copies just don’t feel authentic to me, no matter how much research is completed or how true to the original concept the builders are. And, in this case, they’re looking at making a larger version, not a replica of the original. What do you think? Leave a comment with your thoughts!

Incredible Panoramic Views

Tour Rhodes’ Panoramic Views

Just when you thought you’d seen it all there’s the incredible panoramic views Rhodes has to offer. I took a taxi from the port for a tour around the island, and one of the most memorable stops was the incredible overlook above the beach line and town. You can see the diverse geography of the island from here, and watch the cars drive by down below looking like the matchbox toy cars of your youth. For the bigger picture (where everything’s smaller!), make sure you visit the high points!

Greek Souvlaki. Lamb Skewer on a Plate with Potatoes and Tzatziki, Geece

Greek Treats

Cute Cafes along Cobbled Lanes

You may not want to return to the reality of the present, but when you spot the cute cafes, and smell the appetizing aromas, you may not be able to resist! Adorable cafes along cobbled lanes serve delectable Greek treats, like succulent grilled meat on the spit, mouth-watering moussaka, and the licorice-flavored liquor “Ouzo.” The tastes and scents of Rhodes are every bit as good as the sights, so consider a leisurely stop for lunch!

Tour More Rhodes, Greece!

For a full video tour of Rhodes, Greece, check out my YouTube video here!:

And more magnificent ancient sites await you in Ephesus!:

Tour Ephesus Turkey Treasures

And check out my YouTube channel for more great destinations around the world!:

Ultimate Travel Adventures YouTube Channel

Thank you for reading! Remember, there’s always more to explore on Ultimate Travel Adventures!

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Travelogue

TOUR Kusadasi Turkey!

by Heather Anne • July 28, 2020

Turkish Patriotism in Kusadasi

Touring Kusadasi, Turkey

A tour of Kusadasi, Turkey treats you to many exotic delights! Kusadasi, (or Kuşadası in Turkish), is a vibrant port city on Turkey’s west coast. It’s a popular stop on cruise ship itineraries. It makes a great launching pad for exciting attractions in the region. These include the poignantly preserved ancient Roman metropolis of Ephesus, which I covered in another blog post here Tour Ephesus Turkey Treasures. Ephesus is a 12 mile trip. Sirince, which I cover in another blog post here Tour Sirince, Turkey, is about a 35 minute drive. If you’re not adverse to a road trip, the spectacular thermal pools of Pamukkale are just under 3 hours’ drive. I’ve marked Pamukkale a must for my next visit to Turkey!

Tepe Neighborhood

Mayor Özer Kayali promoted the Tepe project, which involved painting over 400 homes on this hillside in a rainbow of beautiful shades. He strategically selected this location directly on the port of Kusadasi, because here cruise ships and other tour boats would get their first glimpse of this up-and-coming city. It’s a brilliant sight to behold. It’s on a high perch, visible from much of the downtown area. The Tepe neighborhood stands as both a colorful symbol of the colorful personalities of the Turkish people, and creative spirit of the city.

Okuz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai

Öküz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai

Öküz Mehmed Pasha, military commander in the Ottoman Empire, commissioned the Öküz Mehmed Pasha Caravanserai. It was built between 1615 and 1618 and is still standing strong. Today this former customs building for port commerce serves as a hotel. You will feel very safe and secure in this robust fort-like structure! It stands out like an exclamation point a couple of blocks from the port, and is the most noticeable structure in town.

How Turkish Coffee is Served

Turkish Coffee Tasting

Turkish coffee is, admittedly, an acquired taste. It’s like an extra-strength espresso on steroids. So many Turks add sugar to the brew to tone down the bitter notes. When you order a Turkish coffee, you’ll be asked how you want your sugar. I asked a local what’s the most popular request for Turks, and he suggested “medium sugar.” I’m a firm believer in the old “when in Rome…” adage, so I always want to try the local specialties anywhere I go, and preferably in the most authentic form possible. With my “medium sugar” Turkish coffee I received a bowl of delicious candies and fresh water. I enjoy strong flavors, so I liked the coffee. There was a lot of residue at the bottom of the cup – I added some of the water to it so I could finish it off, which worked well!

Cafe Cats in Kusadasi

The cafe I visited was right on the port. I enjoyed beautiful views of the harbor, ships, Kusadasi Castle, and the Tepe neighborhood. I made a new friend – a local cat joined me, sitting on the bench right next to me. There’s a lot of cats out in public areas here, and they’re not afraid of tourists! Shopkeepers and restauranteurs feed them, because they keep the mice away. Do you want to learn more about Turkey’s cats? Check out the amazing film Kedi: click here.

Turkish Carpet Demonstration

Turkish Carpet Demonstrations

Many merchants in town will tell you no visit to Kusadasi is complete without a Turkish Carpet Demonstration. You can experience this visual stimulation all over town, and it will often come with a delicious pastry, Turkish coffee, and a licorice-flavored alcoholic drink Raki. The show was quite the spectacle, but no amount of Raki could have convinced me to spend the thousands of US dollars these merchants wanted for the carpets. They were extremely impressive though, so even though the demonstration was a “sales pitch,” I greatly enjoyed the artistry of their work nonetheless.

Touring around the Port

More to Tour in Kusadasi, Turkey!

There’s much more to tour in and around Kusadasi, Turkey! You can view my full video tour of Kusadasi, Turkey in my YouTube video here!:

And if you still have an appetite for Turkey, check out my other Turkey blog posts here!:

Tour Ephesus Turkey Treasures

Tour Sirince, Turkey

Finally, if you don’t want to miss out on Turkey’s fascinating cats, check out the amazing film Kedi! Click here for Kedi!

Thanks for reading! See you next week!

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Travelogue

Tour Ephesus Turkey Treasures

by Heather Anne • July 21, 2020

Ancient Main Road

Tour Ephesus Turkey

Welcome to another travel Turkey blog. Ephesus was one of the most vibrant major cities in the Roman Empire. Located on the west coast of Turkey near the port city of Kusadasi, it provides some of the finest examples of Roman architecture and civil engineering on the planet. Archaeologists continue to unearth more treasures to this day, as there is much more yet to be uncovered.

Ancient Roman Roads: Quality Construction!

When you tour Ephesus, Turkey, the first thing you notice is how well the main road through the town has stood the test of time. They don’t build them like they used to! Roads were vital to Roman trade, governance, communications, and military movement, just as they are today. The Romans constructed 250,000 miles of roads, many of them paved with stone like this one in Ephesus. Rome had many kinds of roads, from back alleys to major highways. These roads were critical to the explosive growth of the Roman Empire in the ancient world.

The Building Blocks of Civilization

Building Blocks of Civilization

The columns and bricks here represent more than the brilliance of ancient Roman civil engineering. They represent the building blocks of civilization: the institutions that continue to shape our culture today. We have adopted many staples of Roman society, like public squares, government buildings, libraries, marketplaces, theaters, stadiums, bathhouses, places of worship, and more. These institutions are now an important part of our daily lives.

Sophisticated Ancient Roman Plumbing

Very Sophisticated Plumbing

The plumbing system of the ancient Romans was highly advanced. The Romans built elaborate aqueducts to channel water from the countryside into the cities. Once in the cities, the water was delivered through a system of pipes, just like we use today. In Ephesus public toilets and their pipes are still intact. While it seems like there was no privacy, at least live music was provided in public restrooms to drown out the sound…!

Cats on Mouse Patrol

Cats On Patrol

Many cats roam the ruins in Ephesus. I asked a guide about them, and he told me they feed the cats and encourage their presence. The cats keep mice away, and delight visitors! Cats are cherished all over Turkey, and you will find them friendly and frisky. For a wonderful film about Turkey’s lovable feline population, watch the film Kedi. Click here to learn more: Kedi the Movie. This critically acclaimed film is heartwarming, fun, and fascinating, and I highly recommend it!

Library of Celsus

The consul Gaius Julius Aquila commissioned the Library in the 110s A.D. At the time this was the third largest library in the world after the libraries in Alexandria, Egypt and Pergamum, Persia. The Library of Celsus has impressively survived fires, earthquakes, and attacks by the Goths, not to mention centuries of time. This massive and exquisitely preserved structure is the highlight to any tour of Ephesus.

Tour Ephesus Turkey More!

Ancient Rome survives today, not only in it’s timeless ruins, but on the influence it continues to have in our lives to this day. Check out my video tour of Ephesus, Turkey on YouTube here!

And for another travel Turkey blog, check out my post on Sirince! More travel Turkey posts coming soon!:

Tour Sirince, Turkey

For more great destinations weekly, subscribe to my YouTube channel!:

Ultimate Travel Adventures YouTube Channel

We have now joined the new social media site MIX! You can join and follow us here!:

Ultimate Travel Adventures on MIX!

And don’t forget to check out the amazing film Kedi!:

Kedi on Amazon

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Travelogue

Tour Sirince, Turkey

by Heather Anne • July 14, 2020

Steep, cobblestoned hills

It’s time to tour Sirince, Turkey!

Time to tour Sirince, Turkey! Sirince has many surprises in store. Sirince is the epitome of a quaint, charming village. This adorable town is a short hop from the port town of Kusadasi, Turkey on the West coast. The ancient Roman city of Ephesus (coming soon in a future post) is also nearby. Give yourself a great variety of Turkish culture by touring these three destinations. You’ll experience the ancient and modern, along with the big city and countryside. You can board a tour out of Kusadsi to both Sirince and Ephesus in a one day trip. Sirince, Turkey is rippled with hills covered in cute little houses, which are adorned with beautifully detailed wood trim. Rusty orange terracotta roofs shimmer in the glimmering sun. Traveling to Sirince, Turkey is truly a pleasure.

Meet Sirince’s four-legged residents!

The narrow streets are lined with cobbled paths, which are traversed by many a friendly furry friend. You’ll find many cats in this area of Turkey! A native of this area told me they keep the mice away and delight tourists! So stop and say “meow” (translation: thank you!) for their hard work patrolling for the kinds of critters you’d probably rather not encounter…

Authentic architecture

What can I do while touring Sirince?

Sirince is a sleepy little village, but there’s plenty of shopping to be had. The cobbled streets, which are lined with shops and stalls, sell mostly local, homemade crafts, clothes, and foods. Prices are outstanding in Turkey. My favorite souvenir has been some handmade olive oil soaps that I picked up for a couple of dollars each. They have a fabulous scent and have lasted me for months after the trip. They remind me of the wonderful sights and smells I enjoyed here each time I use them!

Cute cafes

Tour the culinary traditions of Sirince!

Bring an appetite! If you do, you will find many good deals! There is an abundance of delightful little cafes where you can enjoy mouth-watering local specialties, such as strong Turkish coffee, succulent kabobs of grilled meat, and delectable Turkish delight candies. And the best thing about the cafes here may be the people watching. You can also bring the delight of Turkish delight home with you, so haggle with sellers to get six boxes for less than $20! I particularly recommend the strawberry flavor. Pistachio is another popular flavor.

Whitewashed homes on a hillside

Most memorable moment touring Sirince

Venture to the top of the hills, where Incredible views are to be had! From here you will gaze upon whitewashed homes descending down the slope, brilliantly bright in the shimmering Turkish sun. I had my most memorable moment when I reached the top of the tallest hill, where I could survey the whole amazing town from my high perch!

Conclusion

I highly recommend a stop in Sirince on your next visit to Turkey! At the bottom of the hill where the tour buses arrive it can be tackily touristy, but make your way to the top and you will encounter quiet side streets and spectacular views!

For more touring, Sirince, Turkey, and cats…!

Want to see more of Turkey’s amazing cats? Then I highly recommend this endearing film about them (notice the well-deserved 5-star reviews!):

KEDI the movie

Tour Sirince, Turkey virtually today! You can view the full tour of the charming town of Sirince, Turkey on my YouTube video!:

Video visit to Sirince!

Tour Turkey some more, with my post on Ephesus!:

Tour Ephesus Turkey Treasures

Traveling somewhere soon and want to learn how to order in a restaurant, check into a hotel, and ask for directions in the local language? Check out my Fluenz language review here!:

Fluenz Language Program Review

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Travelogue

Tour Radiant Rome, Italy

by Heather Anne • June 30, 2020

The Colosseum

Tour Rome, Italy

Rome is a delightfully diverse city. Whether you’re seeking painstakingly preserved ancient ruins, beautifully boisterous baroque buildings, or significantly spiritual structures, Rome is the city for you! I spent four amazing days in Rome. This turned out to be just enough time to get a small sample of all this incredible world-class city has to offer. Geographically, Rome is a sprawling expanse. It’s best toured by double-decker tour bus or public transportation. Even if long walking distances don’t bother you, there’s so much to see in so little time (no matter how much time you have…!)

Colosseum Interior

Rome’s Magnificent Colosseum

The Colosseum is often considered the symbol of Rome, and for very good reason. Brilliantly restored, it’s a step back in time to death-defying gladiator fights, bouts with wild animals, massive sea battles. (Yes – they filled the stage area with water and brought in boats…), and more. As I touched the timeworn stones and imagined the pageantry, I could almost feel the vibrant ancient energy of the place.

The Forum

Rome’s Formidable Forum

The Forum is where the ancient Roman government conducted their political business. It was a system which inspired scores of modern political systems. As such, it’s another amazing place to reflect on our collective past. The might of the Roman Empire is apparent in these monoliths still standing centuries later – both physically and symbolically. So much of the way our societies function today we owe to the innovative thinking of the Romans.

St. Peter’s Basilica

The Vatican: Rome’s Country within a Country

A trip to the Vatican lets you explore a tiny independent country, and seat of spiritual superstar the Pope. You can check online for days and times when the Pope will make an appearance. Be advised, reservations are highly, highly urged for the sites of the Vatican to avoid long lines. The Vatican is a wonderful area in which to ponder the beautiful brilliance of baroque, and the magnificent works of Michelangelo and other renaissance masters. It is a Rome must-see for spiritual and secular visitors alike.

Rome. Cityscape image of Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy during sunrise.

The Spanish Steps

Strolling the Spanish Steps

The Spanish Steps are best visited in the evening, where you’ll encounter many locals out for their evening walk – and after the day tourists are gone. Otherwise you can expect to encounter large crowds. The romantic glow of the fountains make this spot a favorite stop for couples. These massive stairs are a great way to work off the gelato you’re going to enjoy later…

Trevi Fountain

Trevi Fountain: the Perfect Nightcap to your Rome Tour

The best way to cap off a day of endless marvels in Rome is to enjoy the Trevi Fountain by night, delectable gelato in hand. The lights enhance the allure of the fountain, and the surrounding traditional architecture. Sit under the stars and soak in the ambience! Relaxed and refreshed, you’ll be ready for sound sleep and an exciting day full of inspiring sightseeing tomorrow!

More ways to tour Rome!

There’s so much more to Rome! You can see a lot more of the city and my time there by clicking the links below:

Video tour of Rome, Italy:

Video tour of my hotel in Rome:

Rome Hotel Blog Post

It’s hard to see a big city like Rome in limited time. For efficiency and convenience, a quality tour in a big city or out to the countryside can’t be beat! I’ve had very good experiences with Viator. They have many Rome options:

Get the lowest prices on Skip-the-Line Tours in Rome

Get the lowest price on Rome Day Trips

Get the lowest price on Rome Multi-day Tours

And visit more great destinations on my YouTube channel here!:

Visit my YouTube channel here!

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Travelogue

New York City Tour!

by Heather Anne • May 12, 2020

Times Square at Night

New York City: COVID-19 Edition

I did a New York City tour right around the outset of the Coronavirus pandemic in March. It was before it was really clear what was happening. These are tough times for all of us, no thanks to the COVID-19 outbreak. New York City in particular faces many challenges. I know a lot of us can’t wait until the “city that never sleeps” wakes up again. So in the meantime, I can share some images with you from my visit in mid-March, when news was beginning to surface about COVID but the city wasn’t in full shutdown mode yet.

Times Square by Day

Times Square

Times Square is arguably one of the most iconic locations in New York – and usually one of the most crowded, too. But auto and pedestrian traffic was a little lighter, and became even lighter day by day during my visit. The sea of people I encountered on previous visits to Times Square was noticeably absent this time. But the square was still alive with its signature rainbow of bright neon lights and colorful characters in costume, though…

Views from the Empire State Building

Empire State Building

We managed to visit the Empire State Building observatory two days before it closed due to COVID. What a lucky break for us, not to miss these incredible views. Here is a view of downtown, including the towering One World Trade Center standing guard over the rest of the city, symbolically. In the background you can also see the Statue of Liberty in the distance. We enjoyed the art-deco decor of the structure as we proceeded through the lobbies on our way up to the observatory. Once up top you can walk all the way around the building to see the spectacular panoramic scenes.

South Street Seaport Pier

South Street Seaport

South Street Seaport is one of my favorite neighborhoods in New York. Here you can inspect historic ships on the pier, or catch the New York Water Taxi for a tour of the harbor. And along cobbled streets stand the South Street Seaport Museum, as well as many opportunities for shopping. There’s a convenient stop for the double-decker bus tours.

South Street Seaport

New York City Water Taxi

I recommend an outing on the New York Water Taxi from South Street Seaport. I enjoyed outstanding views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan skyline, and Statue of Liberty from the boat. In addition to giving you a tour of the harbor, the taxi will also take you to additional stops where you can disembark and explore, like Midtown and Brooklyn. It’s a hop-on-hop-off experience, just like the double-decker bus. It was windy and chilly in March, but well worth it!

Brooklyn Bridge

We managed to catch the very last Water Taxi running, because as soon as our trip was over it was shut down due to COVID. It was a relief to have caught the last boat, but sad to see it have to shut down. This is one of the best experiences for visitors to New York, and I highly recommend it when the outbreak subsides.

Statue of Liberty

Ordinarily the Statue of Liberty would be swarmed with huge crowds, but not on this day… apparently it was already closed. Still, we got up-close and personal with her from the boat, which swung around to allow passengers on both sides of the boat to catch a glimpse. Possibly one of the most iconic structures in the world, it’s an absolute must-see. If you prefer not to pay, the free Staten Island Ferry will give you a view of her too, albeit slightly more distant.

Double-decker Bus: Great Way to Tour New York

Although the Water Taxi closed after this run we took, we were able to enjoy the double-decker bus for another day. This allowed us to explore downtown, midtown, uptown, Harlem, and Brooklyn, for a couple more days, with the ability to hop on and hop off at various sights. The double-decker bus is a very convenient way to get around the city, and offers great views. I highly recommend getting around New York City and getting a bird’s-eye view from the top of the bus.

M & M’s World

If you have a sweet tooth, no visit to New York is complete without a stop at M & M’s World in Times Square! Here you will find rows and rows of tubes of a rainbow of these delights, and samples are available! Many varieties are available here that you won’t find at your local grocery or pharmacy. And you can also shop for an array of branded merchandise. So leave your diet behind and let your inner “kid in a candy store” out!

Junior’s Diner Cheesecake

Authentic New York Treats at Junior’s Diner

I recommend trying out Junior’s Diner in the Theater District. Here you can indulge in delectable and authentic New York specialties like a Brooklyn Egg Cream, Pastrami Sandwich, and world-renown New York Cheesecake! It’s a little pricey, but portions are huge – take a friend and share and you’ll both be satisfied!

Central Park

No New York City tour is complete without a visit to Central Park. And what better way to shed off those calories than a stroll through this iconic landmark? It’s a relaxing oasis amid this bustling concrete jungle. Horse and carriage rides are another fun way to get around the park, but are a better value in a group of travelers sharing the cost. These rides were running about $50 for 20 minutes when I visited.

Tour More of New York City, and More!

First a disclaimer: I realize that this post may be controversial – that there may be some who feel it was irresponsible of us to visit New York in mid-March, 2020. And I’m sure there are others who applaud our determination to keep living our lives. We were in New York anticipating a cruise on the 15th that ended up being canceled two days before embarkation, so we remained in the city a couple more days before departing. At that time, there was a lot of confusion, and news of the virus was newly surfacing. The extent of the danger was not yet clear. To those who may be distressed by this post, know that after our visit we returned straight home and quarantined for 14 days. And to anyone wondering, no, we didn’t get sick.

Thanks for reading my New York City tour; catch my New York City video tour here!:

If you’re looking for places to stay in New York City, check out my blog post here:

New York City Hotels: Two Tours

And for more video tours of many destinations world-wide, check out my YouTube channel here!:

Ultimate Travel Adventures YouTube Channel

When you visit a big city like New York, I highly recommend taking a tour or getting a City Pass so that you’re able to save money and skip the lines! I like the way you can visit several attractions at a discount, without buying tickets at each one. Check it out here!:

Save up to 50% on combined prices for admission to must-see attractions! Shop Now at CityPASS.com!

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of New York!

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Travelogue

Skagway Alaska Travel: Wilderness Wonderland!

by Heather Anne • February 4, 2019

White Pass railway train

Skagway Alaska Travel

Skagway, Alaska is a remote wilderness wonderland! It’s also a frequent port on Alaskan cruise itineraries. Nicknamed “gateway to the Klondike,” Skagway has an illustrious history of people. Skagway’s hard-bitten ancestors embarked on a risky but exciting adventure. They had the sensible ambition of getting rich during the Gold Rush! Today Skagway is a sleepy town that resembles an Old West movie set combined with tourist commercialism. The large number of cruise ships that dock here throughout the summer may have had a hand in that. But the crush of visitors has not diminished Skagway’s charms. I visited while on the Alaska itinerary for the Norwegian Bliss. The architecture around town has maintained its authenticity despite the wave of commercialism that has flowed into the town.

“Downtown” Skagway today

Skagway in 1898, during the Gold Rush (public domain image)

White Pass Train

My highest recommendation for what to do in Skagway after a stroll through town to observe the Old West late 1800s architecture is a ride on the White Pass train. This train ride affords spectacular views of the White Pass Mountains, including remote wilderness, vast forests, waterfalls, wildlife, and glaciers (in summer!) Besides the scenic views, it’s fascinating to contemplate, as you listen to the whistles and chugging of the train and feel the vibration of its powerful motor, the efforts involved in building this rail track through these steep, imposing mountains. You traverse over massive bridges, through long tunnels, and on the edge of the mountain. (Afraid of heights? Consider yourself warned!)

White Pass train engine

Train Routes

There are a variety of train routes you may take in varying lengths, the longest making it’s way up into the Yukon Territory of Canada. You may purchase tickets for the train ride directly from the operator in town, or purchase an excursion or tour that includes the train ride as one of the included attractions, as I did. The train does not actually stop in Canada, so passports are not necessary. No matter what itinerary you choose, you’re sure to have a thrilling ride!

Views from the train

Panning for Gold

Another attraction included on my tour ticket was a gold panning lesson. During this experience, a very animated woman in period costume explained and demonstrated the process of panning for gold. Following the demonstration, I was handed a pan and given a trough out of which to pan for my own gold. Staff make the rounds to help anyone in need of assistance, but I was still confused… when turning in my gold for an appraisal, it was appraised at about $5. (You do get to keep the gold as a souvenir.) Like so many others in the history of the Gold Rush, I failed to make it rich! The experience was very touristy, but I learned a thing or two about the Gold Rush culture and process of panning nonetheless.

Gold panning lesson

Sled Dog Demonstration

The other portion of the tour I participated in included a sled dog lesson and demonstration. This began with a lecture given by an Iditarod racer, who showed and explained her equipment and discussed what the experience of participating in the Iditarod entails and what life is like for both racer and sled dog. Her presentation was, albeit somewhat touristy, engaging and informative. A short video presentation was also given. After the lecture, a sled dog “race” was simulated on dirt (given it was summer) on a dry run. The audience was introduced to the sled dogs on the team, and allowed to pet both the sled dogs and the puppies on site.

Iditarod racer lecture

More Skagway Alaska Travel!

The train experience was definitely the highlight of any trip to Skagway, but if you can overlook the touristy veneer of some of the other offerings in the area, much can be learned about history and culture in Alaska!

You may view my full video tour (including all of the above listed attractions!) here:

If you want to read more about Alaska, check out my other posts!:

Alaska’s Inside Passage: Mysterious Beauty and Pristine Wilderness!

Ketchikan, Alaska: Quirky and Wild

And visit my YouTube channel for more great destinations!

Ultimate Travel Adventures YouTube Channel

Travelogue

Getting High on Life in the Great Smoky Mountains!

by Heather Anne • November 19, 2018

Morning mountain mist

Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains, and corresponding National Park, straddle the states of Tennessee and North Carolina in the southern United States. My entry point into this natural wonderland was Gatlinburg, Tennessee. As I enjoyed the breathtaking view from the rocking chair of my porch, the Smoky Mountains namesake morning mist hovered. It weaved its way through the mountaintops, providing a perfect sight from which to contemplate the day’s adventures on which I would embark! (For more on where I stayed during my visit to the Smoky Mountains, look for my Wyndham Legacy Smoky Mountains Resort tour blog linked below.)

Scenic overlook in the Park

Smoky Mountains National Park

A visit to Smoky Mountains National Park in undeniably the first place you are going to want to begin your adventure. This is one of nature’s ultimate playgrounds. Here you will discover many natural wonders, including beautiful natural scenery and wildlife. Additionally, as the National Park Service describes, “One of the best collections of log buildings in the Eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures – houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools, and grist mills – have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.” (www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/historicbuildings.htm) These minimalist yet fascinating structures give a good glimpse of what life was like in the 1800s in the rural South.

John Oliver Cabin, from 1822

Hiking Trails

For the energetically-inclined there are an array of hiking trails available. No matter what your difficulty level, there’s a trail here for you. They range from short to long, and from easy to challenging. Hiking options are listed on the National Park Service’s Smoky Mountains website. Hiking trail maps are available at the Welcome Center (as well as driving tour maps of the Park.) On these journeys you will witness waterfalls (in varying sizes), creeks, and dense forests of a multitude of varieties of trees. A hike in the Smoky Mountains stimulates all of the senses! You get spectacular views of the mountains, the soothing sounds of bubbling brooks and trees rustling in the wind, and the smell of pine… truly a feast for the senses! Enjoy breathing in the fresh, pure air while you indulge in the epitome of peacefulness!

Strolling along a bubbling creek

Wildlife

One of the greatest perks of a visit to Smoky Mountains National Park is enjoying the abundance of wildlife! The Park is most well-known for their Black Bear population. When you see a log jam of cars parked illegally along the road and no scenic overlook – you can safely assume it’s a makeshift wildlife viewing stop! And if people are looking up into the trees, it’s probably not birds. Instead, they are likely viewing black bears, for whom the treetops are a favorite hangout! I also saw many deer in the park. This National Park is FREE, but the scenery is priceless!

Black Bear

Pigeon Forge

If you still have the energy after all of the walking, hiking, and driving through the Park, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, minutes away, is billed as a tourist Mecca for the area, where nightlife is readily available and tourists flock to in droves! I quickly realized upon arriving in Pigeon Forge that, well… it’s not for everyone. An extreme contrast from the National Park, the area is overwhelmingly commercial, touristic, and in some cases, tacky. Nonetheless I was drawn to the giant Ferris wheel at “The Island,” which towered over the town. Here there is a small amusement park, numerous restaurants, and a bounty of retail shops. I had preferred to do my shopping at the National Park Service’s shop where proceeds from my sale went to help the park, so I wasn’t in the market for more retail outlets at that point.

“The Island” ferris wheel

Delightful Dinner

For the celebrity restauranteur aficionado, Jimmy Buffett and Paula Deen both have restaurants here at “The Island.” There is also a pizza place I was familiar with called “Mellow Mushroom.” While I did not partake in their offerings on this visit, I had eaten at other locations for each of these restaurants in the past and greatly enjoyed the meal. So if you are looking for a dinner experience here in Pigeon Forge (and prefer to avoid the heavily billboard-promoted and, at least in some cases, “obnoxious” dinner show buffets in town), I would recommend any of these dining outlets.

Wyndham Legacy Resort, Sevierville, TN.

More Smoky Mountains

Please refer to my post linked below if you are interested in great accommodations from which to enjoy your Smoky Mountain Experience! The Legacy Resort by Wyndham is definitely a place I look forward to returning to again and again:

Bountiful Bliss at Wyndham “Legacy” Smoky Mountain Resort!

And you can watch my video tour of Smoky Mountains National Park here: