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Margaritaville Lake Resort
Are you wanting to go on a tropical vacation?
Margaritaville Lake Resort is close to home and it is a place to take the family, to play, to relax, to reconnect, and to enjoy time on the lake. They just opened in the summer of 2020. This location brings the spirit of the Islands to the lake. This waterfront paradise will transport you straight to the tropics, with luxury suites, cottages, and a tempting array of amenities.
It is on 186 waterfront acres on the shores of Lake Conroe,TX. It is a beautiful, family friendly resort with a three acre water park, restaurants, golf course, mini golf, tennis court, pickleball, big fitness center, spa, boat rentals, and 80 boat slips for anyone bringing their own boat. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a fun-filled family getaway, or an all-inclusive group destination, they got you covered.
It was Spring Break and my birthday getaway in March. It was sunny and beautiful. The water was sparkling, and the wave of palm trees were beckoning you into your relaxing escape. The swimming pools would get busy midday, but there were still lounge chairs for everyone.
We stayed in a king-bed suite. If possible, get it on the highest floor that you can. We had an amazing view of the pools and lake. The suites are in the tower and have a bedroom, living room and really nice bathroom. The cottages have the same fixtures and furniture. Free self parking is available as well as paid valet.
The water park includes a lazy river with tubes included, splash zone, two water slides, hot tub and one heated pool. One pool is for adults-only. Everything else is open to all. In addition to the pools, there is a small beach with lake access. The fitness center is great too.
The food is always going to be the best part of any trip. Margaritaville provides plenty of options throughout the resort. Some of the resort restaurants are open to the public, but everything else requires a guest wristband to access.
At the resort you can rent equipment for the lake. They have Tritoon boats, electric paddle boats, stand up paddle boards, kayaks, fishing poles and bait.
There is shopping inside the resort and also nearby. If you forgot something, it's just a five minute drive to pick up some essentials in nearby shops.
The cottages give you your own little house. which is great for family or group. The cottages also have their own assigned parking spot and boat slip right outside.
Weekends are the busiest time. so if you can do a weekday staycation, you will probably have more space.
It was certainly a relaxing stay.
Plan your staycation. Check the Margaritaville website.
Click on links below to read more:
Breakfast At Los Milagros by the garden
The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston
Tesoro Los Cabos Club Resort
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At The EDGE Of The City
The Edge at Hudson Yards is the latest addition to an ever expanding super tall New York city observation decks. It was opened in March 2020, somewhat unfortunate timing as the city locked down for Covid-19 just a few days later. But Edge has now quickly becoming one of the top tourist destinations in the city.
From afar, you simply can’t help but be drawn toward an intriguing sharp-edged triangular platform sticking out 80 ft into the open air from the 100th floor of a glass skyscraper.
What is Edge?
It is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere at 1,131 ft above ground. It is located at 30 Hudson Yards, with a one-of-a-kind design. Edge is suspended in mid-air, giving the feeling of floating in the sky and you'll get some amazing views of New York city.
What it’s like to visit Edge?
Your visit starts at ground level, where the high-speed elevator will take you up to the top in just 52 seconds. Once you reach the top, head outside to the outdoor sky deck. Suspended in mid-air, the ledge extends out 80 feet from the side of the building. It’s pretty spacious too.
When is the best time to visit Edge?
If you want to beat the crowds, the morning is the best time to go, the earlier the better. Late evenings are also less crowded. Going midday can be nice because it easily fits into a day of sightseeing, allowing time to explore Hudson Yards before or afterward.
Is there a time limit for your visit?
Nope. There is no limit on how long you can stay. But around 45 minutes to an hour should be plenty of time.
Is Edge the best observation deck to include on your NYC itinerary?
It depends on your preferences. Each of One World Observatory, The Empire State and Top of the Rock offer something unique and each will blow you away in its own way.
The Edge is sleek, elegant and offers a unique perspective over New York city. We thought the overall experience was fantastic. Very impressive!
Adding to the thrill is the glass floor. You can stand on the glass bottomed panels looking 100 floors below to see the city under your feet. It will certainly take your breath away. But not for the faint of heart though.
Edge is a must see when you come to New York city. The skyline of the city is a monument of splendor. The views from Edge is unbeatable. Feel what it’s like to be on top of the world.
Book your tickets here.
For the thrill seekers, If you dare, check this out!
Click on links below to read more:
Watching Sunset at Top Of The Rock
The Vessel At Hudson Yards
Fall Breeze & Autumn Leaves In New York City
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WATCHING SUNSET FROM TOP OF THE ROCK
I have been to New York city countless times and I would still consider myself a tourist. There is so much to see and you will always find things you haven’t done before and going to the Top of the Rock was one of those things. I have been to the top of the Empire State Building and recently Edge and they are all amazing.
Top of the Rock observation deck is at the top of Rockefeller Center on 5th and 6th avenues. Access to the building entrance is on 50th Street and opposite Radio City. A bright red carpet with Top of the Rock in huge letters builds instant excitement.
It would take 42 seconds inside an elevator with glass ceiling to reach the 67th floor. Top of the Rock has 3 floors of observation decks. They are 67th, 69th, and 70th floors. The 70th floor is completely open and unobstructed, which means photographs never have glare from glass barriers. Top of the Rock is the only one of all major observation decks in the city to have no glass barriers.
Why choose to visit Top of the Rock at sunset over other times of day? Well, sunset is the quintessential and most sought after NYC observation deck time slot. It is the best time of day for a romantic date, it is the best time of day for photographers to capture spectacular colors in the sky, and it is the best time of day to enjoy views with a glass of champagne. Expect big crowds at sunset and embrace the exciting atmosphere. If you want to get those popular selfies, be sure to arrive a little earlier to avoid the chaos.
Top of the Rock is the least tall but in our opinion offers the best views of all observation decks in NYC. Why? Because you can see Central Park clearly, have perfect views of the Empire State Building and One World Observatory in the distance, plus an incredible view of the sun setting behind Edge at Hudson Yards.
A little tip. Stay after the sun has set. Everyone will disperse in a matter of minutes and you’ll be able to relax with the most beautiful colors in the sky yet to come.
I booked our tickets via Chase Sapphire Preferred website. I booked the NYC Explorer Pass which partners with various attractions across the city. This is a great way to save some money if you’re definitely visiting some other places. As a Chase member, you can just show up any time, any day and you don't have to wait in line. Just upload the Go City App for your QR codes. As everyone wants those picture perfect views, the place is extremely busy. If you’re very short on time, this might be the best option for you as a Chase Sapphire member. But just like many attractions in New York, there’s a range of tickets you can get for your visit.
To book at the Top Of The Rock website, you have to choose your day and time. Sunset is the most popular time to enjoy Top of the Rock. Visiting during sunset is an additional $10 per ticket. To see the sunset over New York city is totally worth it.
Check out ticket prices here.
#top of the rock#new york city#sunset#new york#rockefeller center#i love nyc#love#travel around the word
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THE VESSEL AT HUDSON YARDS
What is Hudson Yards?
Hudson Yards is a massive mixed-use development covering a massive acres on the west side of Midtown Manhattan at 10th Avenue and 33rd Street, just near the Hudson River.
At Hudson Yards' center is The Vessel, a ten-story tall, copper-clad sculpture that you can climb via intersecting staircases. It is an extraordinary centerpiece of Hudson Yards and a soaring new landmark where people can enjoy new perspectives of the city from different heights, angles and vantage points.
The Vessel is probably one of the most unusual buildings you will ever see. It’s part structure and part sculpture. It took two years to get this beautiful piece of art come to life. The Vessel was inspired by a British designer, Thomas Heatherwick. This new landmark opened to the public in March 2019. The Vessel looks like a honeycomb and is the newest Instagram hotspot for all.
What is The Vessel really?
The Vessel is practically a spiral open-air staircase. You can climb up or take the elevator to enjoy the views of the city and the Hudson river. It is made up of 2,500 steps. There are no benches for sitting, so it is pretty much in and out experience. The Vessel itself does not offer any activities, but you will find lots of things to do around in Hudson Yards. The site is home to more than hundreds diverse shops and culinary experiences, offices, and public art. It is also home to an art center The Shed, and Edge, the tallest observation deck in the Western hemisphere. Other establishments include modern residences, huge acres of public plazas, gardens, groves, and the world’s first Equinox Hotel.
The Vessel is open every day from 10 am to 9 pm. You can visit it for free, though you must get a ticket. Reserve in advance or even better obtain a Flex Pass for a USD 10 convenience fee. The problem with general attendance is that there is a very limited number of free tickets that can be reserved online. Also, when you reserve in advance through the official website, you will have to pick a specific date and time. With a Flex or sightseeing pass, you can just show up any time, any day.
Is it worth the visit?
Absolutely yes! The Vessel is an impressive sight and deserves recognition for its artistry and stunning views. It is also one of the best NYC spots for photography. The Vessel is gaining popularity and becoming a magnet for tourism. We’re happy we visited.
Watch the video of the Hudson Yards opening ceremony.
youtube
There's so much more to see and do. Click here.
¹ˢᵗ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁴ᵗʰ ᵖʰᵒᵗᵒˢ ᶜᵒᵘʳᵗᵉˢʸ ᵒᶠ ᴴᵘᵈˢᵒⁿ Yᵃʳᵈˢ
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Fall Breeze & Autumn Leaves In New York City
Central Park is the best place to experience the distinct and dramatic seasons in New York city. In winter, it is a snow-capped wonderland. In spring and summer, a flower lover’s delight. But Central Park in Autumn is utterly magical. There’s nothing like wandering the park’s winding paths and enjoying the kaleidoscope of colors. Autumn is easily our favorite season in the city. Central Park is beautiful year-round, but I think Autumn is the season it’s truly built for.
Our favorite spots to admire Autumn in Central Park is around the Central Park Lake, the Bethesda Fountain, the Bow Bridge and the Mall. The Lake is one of the best destinations for incredible scenery.
The Bow Bridge is one of the more iconic landmarks in the park. It is a fall foliage favorite and perhaps one of the most photographed areas in all of Central Park. The pedestrian bridge, built in 1862, overlooks the lake and has been featured in more than a dozen movies.
Late September to the end of November is the best time to visit New York. The temperature is a comfortable range between 50-75 degrees and the air is dry and crisp. New Yorkers love to spend time in Central Park regardless of the season. The park comes alive with colors when the leaves turn into a light show of orange, yellow, gold, maroon and shades of red during the beautiful Autumn season. Although there is no bad time to visit, we do think that Autumn is one of the best time to visit Central Park because it’s less crowded and it’s blasting with color everywhere.
Central Park is a stunning part of the city you just can’t miss on a visit to New York city. Walking through the park is up there with the very best free things to do in the city. We can easily spend a full day walking around in this park. Autumn is a magical time of year in Central Park.
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ℝ𝕀𝕍𝔸 ℝ𝕆𝕎 𝔹𝕆𝔸𝕋 ℍ𝕆𝕌𝕊𝔼
The cooler weather of Autumn is rolling in. Whether you want to relax on the water, have a picnic or go out on an active adventure, Riva Row Boat House has something for everyone.
Riva Row Boat House is situated along the Woodlands Waterway near Town Green Park in the Woodlands, TX. It is home to a huge acres of green space. The pine forest includes several parks, trails for walking, hiking, and biking. Scattered throughout are several lakes, ponds, and a creek. The largest lake is the Lake Woodlands.
Riva Row Boat House offers a wide variety of watercraft rental options, from kayaks, water bikes, paddle boards, and swan boats. It was opened as the first public boat rental location in The Woodlands in 2009 as part of the rapidly-developing Woodlands Waterway.
Our little adventure began by renting a swan boat. We paddled down the canal leisurely from Town Green Park along the upper waterway all the way to the Lake Robbins. It was surprisingly thrilling. There were plenty of people enjoying the lake. Paddle boarders, kayakers, and a rowing club glided across the calm waters in the Autumn sun. Ironman Texas triathlon was also going on. It was a busy day in the park.
On our way back to port, we paddled alongside fish, turtles, and ducks. Along the banks were many species of birds. We spent a few more minutes at the park by the lake and I felt the youthful nostalgia of being at a summer camp.
It was a very relaxing experience. Remember to take sunscreen, a hat, and water.
Visit and book a rental at Riva Row & Lake Edge Boat House
Click on links below to read more:
The Oasis on Lake Travis
Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
The Historic Route 66
Atlantis Resort Bahamas
📷 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙽𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗, 𝚁𝚒𝚟𝚊 𝚁𝚘𝚠 𝙱𝚘𝚊𝚝 𝙷𝚘𝚞𝚜𝚎 & Visit The Woodlands
𝟷𝚜𝚝 & 𝟸𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚑𝚘𝚝𝚘𝚜 𝚎𝚍𝚒𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚝 𝙿𝚛𝚘
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𝐕𝐀𝐍 𝐆𝐎𝐆𝐇: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
If you followed our visit to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, you could pretty much say that my wife and I are big fans of the magnificent Van Gogh. When the Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience and the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit Houston was making their way to Houston this summer, you can imagine how thrilled we were.
Not just one, but there are two Van Gogh exhibits going on in Houston. What? You may ask. Yes, it was confusing at first over which one to get tickets to or what are the differences between them. But no matter what, we have to see any one of them. After a bit of research, I found out that both exhibits are similar but have different sponsors. I booked our tickets online. Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience was still open and sold through events App Fever with limited tickets availability. The other exhibit is created by Massimiliano Siccardi and was booked up. I splurged and booked the VIP seats. I told myself that this is only once in a lifetime experience and for the love of Van Gogh, why not? The exhibit is scheduled to run through January 2022. I suggest booking a few months in advance if it comes to your city, so you could pick the dates you want.
The exhibit highlights Van Gogh’s paintings in a unique way, bringing the famous works to life from floor to ceiling with different elements of color, sound, and light using projectors, animations and more. It would take audiences on an emotional journey that would explore the artist’s art and life in a stream-of-consciousness narrative. The exhibit is around 60 minutes long and runs on a continuous loop. Guests can stay for multiple viewings.
Chilling with Van Gogh on a starry night. It was such a cool exhibit. It reminded us to be creative. It was inspiring.
The exhibition is on Marq’E Entertainment Center, a massive entertainment complex in Houston. A 20,000 square foot light and sound spectacular featuring two-story projections of the artist’s most compelling works in 360 degrees.
We were surrounded with the swirling sensation of Van Gogh's famous paintings. It was truly an immersive experience where you feel like you were traveling inside the paintings of one of the planet's best known and most celebrated artists. Even if you’ve seen Van Gogh’s paintings in person, you’ve never seen them brought to life in this extraordinary way.
Visiting Van Gogh's bedroom: While he was in Arles, Van Gogh made this painting of his bedroom in the Yellow House in 1889. He prepared the room himself with simple furniture and with his own work on the walls.
The Immersive Experience was the only exhibit of the two in Houston offering the VR ( Virtual Reality ) element. It is one of a kind VR interactive, which guides you on a ten-minute journey through “A day in the life of the Artist.” Walk alongside Van Gogh during this peaceful, visually rich journey to discover the inspiration behind eight of his iconic works, including: Vincent’s Bedroom at Arles, and Starry Night Over The Rhone River. I was in awe. It was realistic!
The exhibit is a beautiful homage to the great artist and the legacy he left behind. Van Gogh's art still resonates and connects with audiences across the world today. The exhibit is highly recommended. Book your tickets here. It is Covid secure and safe.
Click on links below to read more:
𝕋he Van Gogh Museum Amsterdam
The Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Museo Nacional de Antropología
Palacio De Bellas Artes
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𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕍𝕒𝕟 𝔾𝕠𝕘𝕙 𝕄𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕦𝕞
𝕋he Van Gogh Museum is home to the world's largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh and an essential stop for any visitor to Amsterdam. My wife and I are so fascinated with Van Gogh. A wall in our living room hanged two Van Gogh painting reproductions we bought in a Estate Sale in Texas more than 20 years ago. Visiting the Van Gogh Museum was a dream come true for both of us. Van Gogh is still very much alive in our visual culture. He is one of the best known and most celebrated artists in the world.
The museum features many of the artist’s best works of art alongside an excellent biography of his life. The story of his art is told throughout the galleries. It is narrated painting by painting in chronological order which enables visitors to discover this brilliant painter’s artistic and life-long development from painting rural landscapes until his haunting works at the end of his life. It was't allowed to film or take picture of artwork in the exhibition area. It was only permitted in designated areas. Our photos below were taken in the entrance hall and the so-called selfie-walls.
"𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒸𝒶𝓃𝓋𝒶𝓈𝑒𝓈 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓉𝑒𝓁𝓁 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾 𝒸𝒶𝓃𝓃𝑜𝓉 𝓈𝒶𝓎 𝒾𝓃 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝒹𝓈." -Vincent van Gogh
Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat, 1887
This is one of Van Gogh’s many self-portraits or we call it nowadays selfies. This is the selfie back in the day. It took him months to make one. When we look at Van Gogh’s self-portraits, so often we are hoping to get an insight into his personality and thoughts. This is because most of us are as fascinated by his extraordinary life as his amazing art.
Why did Van Gogh made so many self-portrait?
He made a total of 35. Unable to afford models, he turned to his mirror to practice his skills painting portraits. See some of his self-portraits here.
Sunflowers, 1889
This is one of the most famous versions of Sunflowers. Van Gogh painted 5 different versions of sunflowers in a vase. The sunflower paintings had a meaning for him. He wrote that they were an expression of his gratitude. His intention was to make art that offers solace to troubled hearts. After he died, friends brought sunflowers with them to his funeral. Sunflowers became synonymous with Van Gogh, just as he had hoped. Read more here.
Almond Blossom, 1890
Large blossom branches like this against a blue sky were one of Van Gogh’s favorite subjects. The painting was a gift for Vincent’s newborn nephew. The boy was born in 1890 and named after him. Read more here.
The Yellow House, 1888
In May 1888, Van Gogh rented four rooms in a house on Place Lamartine in Arles, France. The green shutters in this painting of the square show where he lived. Read more here.
The Bedroom, 1889
While he was in Arles, Van Gogh made this painting of his bedroom in the Yellow House. He prepared the room himself with simple furniture and with his own work on the wall. The bright colors were meant to express absolute ‘repose’ or ‘sleep’. Read more here.
Self-Portrait as a Painter, 1888
Van Gogh presented himself in this self-portrait as a painter. He showed that he was a modern artist by using a new painting style, with bright, almost unblended colors. This was his final self-portrait.
Watch the video below to step into Van Gogh's world.
vimeo
The life of Vincent van Gogh was sad and tragic. Two months after a couple of years confinement at the asylum, he took his life from what is believed to have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound. During his brief career, he did not experience much success, he sold only one painting, lived in poverty and suffered mental illness. The money he had was provided by his brother, Theo, and was used primarily for art supplies, coffee and cigarettes. Van Gogh might have been on the verge of success and may have killed himself at the very moment he was going to become what he had always wanted.
"𝐼 𝒹𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓂 𝑜𝒻 𝓅𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝐼 𝓅𝒶𝒾𝓃𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝒹𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓂." -Vincent van Gogh
In spite of his lack of success during his lifetime, Van Gogh’s legacy lives on having left a lasting impact on the world of art. He is now viewed as one of the most influential artists having helped lay the foundations of modern art. He is one of the planet’s best-known and most celebrated artists. Learn about his life, read his letters, or explore his paintings and drawings. If you plan a visit to his museum, book tickets here.
Vincent Van Gogh's Biography: Timeline
Visit the museum's official web page here.
Click on links below to read more:
𝑳𝒂 𝑪𝒂𝒔𝒂 𝑨𝒛𝒖𝒍: The 𝗙𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗮 𝗞𝗮𝗵𝗹𝗼 Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Museo Nacional de Antropología
Basilique du Sacré-Coeur
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𝓒𝓮𝓵𝓮𝓫𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 23 𝓦𝓸𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓾𝓵 𝓨𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓼
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓫𝓵𝓮𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓵𝓭 𝓫𝓮 𝓫𝓮𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓷 𝓼𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓵𝓲𝓯𝓮𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓮 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮?
Click on links below to read more:
𝟚𝟙𝕤𝕥 𝕎𝕖𝕕𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝔸𝕟𝕟𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝔸𝕥 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕝𝕦𝕖 𝕃𝕒𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕟
𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐎𝐟 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞
Celebrating 19 Wonderful Years At Hotel Granduca
18 Year Of 𝓛𝓪 𝓓𝓸𝓵𝓬𝓮 𝓥𝓲𝓽𝓪
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𝔹𝕒𝕤𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕢𝕦𝕖 𝕕𝕦 𝕊𝕒𝕔𝕣é-ℂ𝕠𝕖𝕦𝕣
𝕋owards the end of our Paris trip, we headed up to Montmartre. Montmartre which means Mountain of the Martyr is known for its cobbled streets and village-like charm. It was in Montmartre that the Impressionist art movement first began to take shape. Renoir, Matisse, Van Gogh and other notable impressionists all once made their home here.
If you plan on visiting Montmartre, you would definitely want to visit the Sacred Heart Basilica, known in French as the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. It is one of the most important religious buildings in Paris. The stunning landmark is situated on top of the hill of Montmartre. The majestic church offers one of the most incredible panoramic views of Paris.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a believer, you will love Sacre-Coeur where art and worship are mixed. This interesting church has a lot to discover and a lot of secrets kept to itself. If you are curious and would love to know a few facts about the Sacre-Coeur, read on.
Before the construction of Sacre-Coeur, long before the Christian era ever reigned through Paris, it is believed that the Montmartre hilltop was a much loved place of worship for Parisian pagans. This place has always been chosen by the believers, due to the feeling of being closer to the sky, which holds the idea of being closer to God, to heaven, and forgiveness in Catholicism.
Sacre-Coeur is the second most visited church in France next to Notre Dame Cathedral. It welcomes more than 10 millions visitors per year. You can visit the basilica for free, however if you want to visit the dome to enjoy a spectacular view over Paris, you have to buy the tickets on site.
Designed by Paul Abadie, the construction of the church began in 1875 and was completed in 1914. The architectural style is Romano-Byzantine and was inspired by churches, like Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and San Marco in Venice. The construction of the church was financed by the faithful Parisians through generous donations. You will find the names of the people who invested in the construction engraved on the walls of the church.
As you approach this impressive architecture, you’ll spot two oxidized green statues perched on the arched entryway. In keeping with the basilica’s nationalist theme, one figure is Joan of Arc and the other is King St. Louis IX. Both storied figures of French history are depicted riding a horse with a sword in hand.
Sacre-Coeur has one of the heaviest bells called Savoyarde. They brought the bell in 1895 with the help of 21 horses that dragged the bell to the top of the hill of Montmartre. The bell is not just one of the heaviest, it is also one of the biggest in the world. It weighs about 19 tons.
The ceiling of the entrance hall in the church boasts an extraordinary mosaic called the “Apse Mosaic”. It is one of the largest known works of mosaic on the planet, and it depicts Christ in all his glory. It is not allowed to film or take picture inside the Basilica.
One of the most impressive things about this church is its whiteness. You can see it from a distance due to its shiny look. But there’s a reason it stays that white all through the years. The exterior travertine stone, known as ‘Château-Landon’ is the same stone that was used for the Arc de Triomphe and the Alexandre III bridge in Paris. It is very resistant and water does not infiltrate. In fact, in contact with water, when it rains, the stone releases a substance called calcite that cleans the stone and enables it to keep its white color.
The real reason why the church was built. Struggling to recover from decades of internal turmoil and military defeat, the basilica was built to remedy a century of moral decline in France, and is as much a symbol of civic pride as it is a place of worship.
Celebrating Tweety's birthday with gelato. Montmartre has one of the best pistachio gelato. She was asking for more.
This is where you sit to enjoy the awesome panoramic views of the City of Love. We had a great time with our friends Eldaa and Raul who traveled with us to Paris from Texas.
Click on links below to read more:
The Magnificent Hagia Sophia
Visiting The Vatican
Walking On Duomo di Milano Rooftop
The Roman Pantheon
First photo courtesy of Vecteez
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Celebrating 22nd Anniversary During Pandemic
Anniversary is that one day you would want to celebrate all the memories and moments that you've made with your spouse. You want to make this day special and memorable each year by doing a variety of things. But due to the pandemic, you're all restricted to your home and won't have much access to outings or travelings.
Restaurants in many parts of Texas were already accepting dine-in customers with limited capacity since May 1st, 2020. We've been missing our favorite Middle Eastern restaurant during the lockdown. Since it was our 22nd wedding anniversary on June 28th, we decided to eat out at our favorite place. Restaurants were really hit hard during the lockdown and we wanted to show our support.
Restaurants looked different than they were before Covid-19. There were fewer tables that were spread out, the rolled silverware were replaced by single-use disposable items. So were condiments that once took up too much space on the tables. The menus were printed on paper disposed of after a single use. Servers wore gloves and masks when interacting with customers. Was it safe? Unfortunately, nothing was safe that time. But we can at least minimize the risk.
While I was sure many restaurants have taken precautions to make their establishments safe, we were not there yet regarding dining in. Luckily, the restaurant had plenty of patio seating available.
While we waited for our food to come, we reminisced on our 22 years of marriage. We thought about our blessings. There are countless things that we are blessed with having and are very thankful to God for all of them. We are so grateful!
Click on links below to read more:
𝟚𝟙𝕤𝕥 𝕎𝕖𝕕𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝔸𝕟𝕟𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝔸𝕥 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕝𝕦𝕖 𝕃𝕒𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕟
𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐎𝐟 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞
19 Wonderful Years At Hotel Granduca
18 Year Of 𝓛𝓪 𝓓𝓸𝓵𝓬𝓮 𝓥𝓲𝓽𝓪
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𝓛𝓪 𝓓𝓸𝓵𝓬𝓮 𝓥𝓲𝓽𝓪 𝓘𝓷 𝓟𝓸𝓼𝓲𝓽𝓪𝓷𝓸
Anyone who’s ever been to Italy’s Amalfi coast can tell you hands down that Positano is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy and a definite must-add to your travel plans.
Positano is the gem of the Amalfi Coast. Getting there can be an adventure on its own. But there’s so many reasons why you would want to visit this stunning village. The view is pretty spectacular and definitely worth checking out in person. I’ve said this before, but really, no photos, no matter how good can do this place justice. It is truly something you have to see for yourself. Being in the South of Italy, the weather’s pretty good especially in the summertime. The food is amazing too if you skip the usual touristy haunts and step off the beaten track for some of the best seafood. If you like watching sunset, it is epic in Positano.
Lunch With A View At The Poseidon Hotel
We had lunch at the beautiful Hotel Poseidon. On the terrace is the wonderful 𝐼l Tridente restaurant. They serve food using only local ingredients. It’s also the most perfect place to grab a cocktail and watch the sunset. The view from the hotel’s terrace is one of the most amazing in Positano. Every where you look is beautiful. If you are looking for a romantic destination in one of the most beautiful spots in the world, with an ambience that just can’t be described, then this is your place.
The food was alright. See menu here.
Palazzo Murat Hotel
The weather was beautiful. It was just perfect spending time outdoor and we absolutely enjoyed Palazzo Murat Hotel’s charming courtyard. It was a relaxing spot to have limoncello and rest our weary feet from all the walking. The courtyard under the shades of jasmine, bougainvillea, and orange trees was just what we needed to refresh. The atmosphere was truly enchanting. Palazzo Murat is an oasis in the very center of Positano.
We absolutely had an amazing time in Positano. It was incredible to be surrounded by so much beauty. The day we spent walking around town was truly one of the best days of our lives and one we will remember forever. It was unarguably why this picturesque village is a very popular place especially during summertime.
Probably the most famous attraction here in Positano is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Built in the 1920’s, the church’s magnificent tiled dome is the centerpiece of this community.
We have to say, Positano definitely lives up to the hype. Though it can get crowded and it’s not always budget-friendly, but it’s well worth the visit. You will experience 𝓛a dolce vita everyday here. Are you now ready for the Italian escape of your dreams?
Click on links below to read more:
We ❤️ Positano
Sun-kissed Amalfi
Tour Of The Ruins Of Pompeii
Trip To The Island Of Murano
It Tridente Restaurant Tripadvisor Reviews
Photo credits: Hotel Poseidon & Palazzo Murat Hotel as seen on their Instagram pages
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𝓕𝓲𝓮𝓼𝓽𝓪 𝓓𝓲𝓷𝓷𝓮𝓻 𝓞𝓷 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓑𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓱
After a day of sea adventure in the Pacific Ocean and swimming in the Sea of Cortez, we were craving for a great and relaxing dinner. It was on a Saturday night, the live music band was playing, welcome to an awesome place called The Office On The Beach. We were sailing past this spot earlier thinking, wow that looks like a heck of a restaurant by the beach, and here we are enjoying fresh seafood, Sex on the Beach drinks, and the stunning Cabo sunset.
The Office is one of Cabo’s most recognized and world famous restaurants. It has become a restaurant of the local and Hollywood stars. The restaurant is popular for its amazing views of San Lucas Bay and the Land’s End Arch. Decorated with tiki torches and colorful rainbow tablecloths, the restaurant remains and is always packed with revelers.
The views were absolutely breathtaking. We could see all the way over to the Land's End. We met a lovely couple who were here on a holiday and they were just raving about the place. It was one of the great dining options that they had here in Cabo and one that we also enjoyed.
Guests can choose their seating inside or out on the sandy beach under the shade of blue colored umbrellas, where the atmosphere is sunny and warm during the day, cool and wonderful at night.
The food and drinks were fantastic. Check out the dinner menu here. They also serve breakfast and lunch.
It only rains a handful of days annually in Cabo, affording diners the opportunity to dine alfresco most of the time. The intimate outdoor seating at The Office is worth seeking out.
The Office screams “tourist-trap”, but it's all in good fun. The friendly, attentive, bilingual staff is prompt and service oriented even when its busy. The Office is located at Playa El Medano, Cabo San Lucas.
Below is a photo with Rambo. The most famous guy in The Office. He’s been working in this restaurant since he was 17 years old.
It was like a Mexican fiesta at The Office On The Beach. A great place to have a sunset dinner in Cabo.
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Book your reservations here
What is the story behind the name “The Office”? Click here to read.
Tripadvisor Reviews
Click on links below to read more:
Sunset Dinner Cruise In Cabo
Glass Bottom Boat Sailing To El Arco
Tesoro Los Cabos Club Resort
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𝔼𝕩𝕔𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 ℂ𝕒𝕓𝕠
How exciting? We went on a sailing adventure aboard a glass bottom boat. We rented the boat with a Captain that took us to the famed El Arco, Pelican Rock, Sea Lions’ Colony, Playa del Amor, the Land’s End and around the Sea of Cortez where we plunged into the beautiful blue water for some swimming, snorkeling, and some luxury extravaganza. It was absolutely an incredible and exciting day. Honestly, that was my dream way to spend a day.
We made it to The Arch!
We got much closer to El Alco. This is the most famous spot in all of Los Cabos and it was cool to be here and be that close.
People were jumping off boats, swimming and snorkeling. There were margarita drinks flowing and great food. This is a must-do experience when in Cabo. It’s so much fun!
Los Cabos is a long stretches of pristine coastline and sparkling water. It is a must-visit destination bursting with plenty of outdoor activities, great food and colorful local culture. Los Cabos is located in Mexico on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula.
The spectacular rock formations are carved by time and salt water from the currents of both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez.
Up close with the sea lions. It was a great experience being welcomed by these friendly creatures and see them sunbathing on rocks above the sea. They have become accustomed to human visitors and have become social beings and sometimes friendly enough to pose for photographs with the tourists. The main place to find them in Cabo is at the famous arch.
Médano Beach.
In the heart of Cabo is the popular Médano Beach. Médano which means “The Dune” is famous for its soft white sands and warm, calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling , and some other water activities.
Vibrant Médano Beach is a nearly two-mile stretch of wonderful soft sand overlooking Cabo San Lucas Bay and the spectacular rock formations of Land’s End marking the meeting of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. Lined with beach clubs, cantinas and luxurious resorts, this is a great location for Los Cabos travelers and a must-visit for any Cabo vacationer. Médano also happens to be one of Cabo’s most welcoming beaches, with gentle waters and a host of activities including kayaking, jet skiing and parasailing.
Médano Beach is home to the most exclusive resorts and boasts in its beachfront a handful of palapa-shaded bars and restaurants for you and your family to enjoy. The beach is usually crowded with people looking to have a good time, as it is the go-to location for water-based activities.
Los Cabos is a known party spot and a very popular holiday destination. It is a hub of adventure and underwater activities as well as some great bars, clubs and restaurants.
There's no shortage of great things to do in Los Cabos. It is the perfect place for all the things I love. All those outdoor water adventures, I had so much fun. But for us, the highlight was definitely the luxurious sunset dinner sailing experience aboard Caborey Luxury Ship to the Land's End.
Glass bottom boat private tour to the Land's End was a great experience.
Click on links below to read more:
Sunset Dinner Cruise In Cabo
Fiesta Dinner On The Beach
Tesoro Los Cabos Club Resort
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On Top Of The World in 𝕊𝕥 𝕄𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕫
First, where is St. Moritz?
The Engadin St. Moritz region is on the southern side of the Swiss Alps about 1800 meters above sea level. The swanky town is one of 13 towns in the region. St. Moritz draws royalties, international celebrities, tourists and outdoor adventure lovers. It is the elite of the elite of the ski world and a superb summer destination as well. We did not come to ski. I wish we did. Ours was purely sightseeing. St. Moritz is one of the prettiest towns in Europe, with Lake Moritz at its feet and snowy-peaks all around.
Dubbed the birthplace of winter tourism, St. Moritz lures in visitors with its unique combination of incredible outdoor activities and unrivaled luxury. Whether you visit in the summer or the winter, the town is equally buzzy. In the winter, guests cozy up to fireplaces or take horse-drawn carriages through town, while summertime guests spend their days riding electric bikes and hiking on the surrounding mountains. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year and relatively mild temperatures, there's rarely a bad day in St. Moritz.
Sky-high St. Moritz is literally the top destination for premium shopping. The town may be small, but it’s a heavyweight in the world of fashion. Stroll down Via Serlas, the highest and possibly most expensive shopping street in Europe, where you can stare at all the store windows stuffed with diamond watches and fur-trimmed Bogner ski gear. Many of the top luxury brands maintain boutiques here. The Alpine resort’s selection of renowned fashion labels is second to none.
St. Moritz ranks as one of the world's top winter playgrounds for the jet set. Its palatial hotels, luxury shopping, and ski scene are one of the best in the world.
St Moritz fast fact: The sport of bobsledding was born in St Moritz and the town hosted two Olympic Games, in 1928 and 1948.
A well-known landmark of St. Moritz is the legendary Badrutt’s Palace Hotel. The favorite palace of celebrities and royalties. It is located in the heart of the city. It is set like a precious gem in one of the most amazing Engadin Valleys among Swiss Alps. Dating from 1896, this luxurious 5-star hotel offers panoramic views over the Alps and Lake Moritz. The Badrutt’s Palace Hotel was the first palace hotel in the world.
This was how we pictured being in the Swiss Alps and it didn’t disappoint. The snow-covered mountains, with peaks rising high above the clouds, were majestic, imposing and magnificent.
Lunch with a view! This was definitely one of the most scenic backdrops we’ve ever had having lunch.
St Moritz is worth a weekend or at the very least a day trip. One doesn’t need to be a skier or snowboarder to enjoy the many attractions here. It is a year-round destination but certainly worth braving the cold during winter too. It is magical covered in snow. We had a wonderful time!
Getting to St. Moritz is half the fun!
Switzerland's extensive train network is the stuff of dreams. The trains are incredibly comfortable and luxurious. A trip from either Zurich or Tirano to St. Moritz is fascinating. It offers views so picturesque that you might be convinced you're actually looking at an oil painting. See our post The Bernina Express Ride.
Enjoy the video below from exploremarco.
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Click on link below to read more:
The Bernina Express: Enjoy The Ride
A Perfect Weekend In Munich
Charming Town Of Tirano
Photo credits: stmoritz
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𝕮𝖆𝖒𝖇𝖗𝖎𝖉𝖌𝖊
If you ask anyone what they think of when you say ‘Cambridge’, the most likely answer will be ‘The University’. That would certainly be justified. Because the University of Cambridge is one of the top 7 in the world.
I have a soft spot for Cambridge. It’s not just because my brother and his wife live there, but it’s the kind of spot that has lots to see within one relatively small area. This alone makes it an ideal city to just wander around and explore. Even though Cambridge is a city, it does not feel like it most of the time, thanks to its vast and picturesque green spaces.
Cambridge attracts many travelers for a lot of reasons. It might be best known for its university which is home to some of the world’s greatest minds. But what I feel makes this English city truly incredible is its long, rich history and incredible buildings all across the city that are absolutely awe inspiring to see.
𝔎𝔦𝔫𝔤'𝔰 ℭ𝔬𝔩𝔩𝔢𝔤𝔢 ℭ𝔥𝔞𝔭𝔢𝔩 is the oldest surviving building within the College site and perhaps the most iconic building in Cambridge.
Cambridge is around an hour and a half drive from central London, making it perfect for a day trip. But I’d suggest you stay longer than just a day. So that you’ll have an opportunity to go punting.
What is Punting?
When the sun is out in Cambridge, go punting! For those that don’t know what punting is, let me fill you in. Punts are long and flat-bottomed wooden boats. The boat is pushed along by someone called a punter who stands at the back and pushes the boat along with a long pole. The activity is called punting. Read more here.
Punting is the number one outdoor activity to do in Cambridge. It’s a traditional and relaxing way to to explore the sights and learn the history and accomplishments that this incredible city proudly holds. Tour guides tell you historical tales and some funny secrets only they know. The glorious River Cam passes through the heart of Cambridge University’s campus, offering the most unique views of the famous colleges.
You can go punting in a shared or private tour. Some people go punting to have a romantic date, to propose marriage or just an ideal activity to spend time with family and friends. Grab some snacks and a bottle of bubbly, and just enjoy the glide!
Cambridge has a vibrant theater and arts scene as well. You’d also find fantastic contemporary restaurants mixed in with traditional pubs. We had lunch at Samaan Restaurant. It was one of the best Turkish grill in the city.
𝕬𝖚𝖉𝖑𝖊𝖞 𝕰𝖓𝖉 𝕳𝖔𝖚𝖘𝖊 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝕲𝖆𝖗𝖉𝖊𝖓𝖘
A 17th-century country house in Saffron Walden, Essex was once one of the largest and most opulent houses in Jacobean England. The impressive Audley End House that can be seen today is only about a third the size of the vast mansion created in about 1605–14 by Thomas Howard, 1st Earl of Suffolk. The place retains much of its original character. The gardens and landscape, which have been shaped by various owners over the centuries complemented the house. Read a full account of Audley End’s long and varied history here.
Dinner At 𝕭𝖊𝖉𝖔𝖚𝖎𝖓
Bedouin specializes in North African cuisine. It will tantalize your taste-buds by transporting you to the Sahara desert for the evening. Just sit back, relax and enjoy the unique dining experience. We enjoyed the food and the friendly service.
Click on links below to read more post:
A Perfect Day In London!
The Beauty Of Salzburg
City Tour In Reykjavík
A Day Trip To 𝕋𝕖𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕙𝕦𝕒𝕔á𝕟
Make your Bedouin reservations here
Bedouin Tripadvisor Reviews
Collage photos courtesy of Scholars Punting Co
#cambridge#england#king's college chapel#audley end house and gardens#bedouin#U.K.#Travel Around the World
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𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝖂𝖎𝖓𝖉𝖘𝖔𝖗 𝕮𝖆𝖘𝖙𝖑𝖊
Oh yes, we visited the Windsor Castle again. The last time was 3 years ago. Visiting a castle that once upon a time had royalty living in it is one thing but visiting one that is currently home to the present day Royal family is another thing entirely. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the entire world. It is pretty much open all year round. Clearly, it is a private home still and it is possible that parts of it will be closed for private occasions. If the Queen’s at home at the castle, then you’ll see the Royal Standard flag flying above the Round Tower. If not, you’ll see the Union Flag flying instead.
Windsor Castle is best seen in around two hours. If you are in a hurry you can easily see the castle and grounds in an hour. Try to buy your tickets in advance to skip the lines which can be quite long in summer and especially on weekends. The changing of the guard usually takes place at 11:00 am daily during the summer and on alternate days during the colder months. Another important note is that St George’s chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays.
Located opposite Windsor Castle is an indoor shopping mall called Windsor Royal Shopping. It is connected to an 1850s Victorian railway station. There’s variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes that you can enjoy.
Click on links below to read more:
A Perfect Day In London!
An Afternoon Tea @ Ting Shangri-La London
The Royal Crescent
Visiting Kensington Palace
The Royal Grand Palace, Bangkok
Visit the Windsor Castle website and get your tickets here.
#windsor castle#london#england#U.K.#cambridge#king's college chapel#audley end house and gardens#Travel Around the World
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