A Collage of Photographic Adventures

A Collage of Photographic Adventures.

I am the solitary traveler: On the rare occasion when I am not traveling with my family, I travel alone. For many, it is an inconceivable thought. But I am a loner. Time spent alone whether at home or in a foreign country, is something I relish.  More so after two disastrous attempts to veer from, what for me, had become the norm: A solo trip to Madrid, one of my best trips ever, happened because my friend decided to bail at the last minute.  Another time, I found myself abandoned in Amsterdam, the second stop on a three country tour: an ultimatum from her boyfriend had my travel companion scurrying back to the U.S.  He threatened to dump her, and apparently, she couldn’t survive losing him. Both experiences cemented what I knew to be an unmitigated truth, for me at least: some roads are best traveled alone.  And some roads are best traveled with companions: companions with shared interests: free of the drama, or idiosyncrasies that can turn a great travel experience into a nightmare. Companions who are simply happy to come along for the adventure.  Below is a collage of photographic adventures with my favorite travel companions.

 

          

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Scotland's charming capital City of Edinburgh is worth a visit.

Why Scotland’s Charming Capital City is Worth a Visit.

 A visit to the United Kingdom almost always begins and ends in London.  With good reason! London is a cosmopolitan city, with a pulsating edge. It is exciting. It is fun. It has a treasure trove of great museums, art galleries, stunning architecture, palaces, and castles, churches, beautiful parks, theaters, great restaurants, pubs, and a modern history dating back to 43 A.D.  It is also somewhat of a launching pad to Continental Europe: accessible to both France and Belgium by train.  But amenities and convenience come with a price.  And in the case of London, the price tag is especially steep.

London is one of Western Europe’s most expensive cities to visit.  The average hotel price in the English capital is 127 GBP, or the equivalent of 199.00 USD. Note that the dollar is worth less than the pound. Visitors from the U.S will see an exchange rate of .64 pence for every dollar. So unless you have very deep pockets, or have been saving up for your vacation of a lifetime, a trip to London is going to cost you.

There is however, no need to despair.  There is another alternative. Namely, further north, to Scotland’s charming capital city of Edinburgh, a designated UNESCO world heritage site.  It may stand in the shadow of its larger, more popular Southern, neighbor, yet, Edinburgh can offer visitors everything that London has to offer. Albeit on a smaller, and much more affordable scale. Here, you will find, great museums, art galleries, stunning architecture, monuments, castles, churches, beautiful parks, and gardens, theaters, great restaurants, pubs, some of the world’s best whiskey, and a modern history, as old, if not older than that of London.

What more, Edinburgh is safe, clean, much less crowded, locals are friendly and it has an old world charm that’s all its own. The city is divided into two: New Town, the modern, planned, urban, city built between 1767 and 1850. This part of the city retained much of the original neoclassical and Georgian period architecture. Old Town with its carefully preserved, cobblestoned streets, reformation era buildings, narrow alleys, and courts is the quintessential medieval city. At its heart is the Royal Mile, the street which runs from the fortress commonly known as Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace.  This contrast between old and somewhat modern, makes Edinburgh especially picturesque.  It has the type of old world vibe that London will never be able to deliver.

Edinburgh is a compact city: a city made for walking. Visitors will save money because they’ll never need to get on a bus, or hail a taxi. Most, if not all, the major tourist’s attractions are within the city center. And generous Edinburgh will allow visitors to visit many of its museums for free. The average hotel price in Edinburgh is 102 GBP, or the equivalent of 159.00 USD.

Getting there: Most major airlines fly into London’s Heathrow. A connecting flight from Heathrow to Edinburgh takes approximately one hour and twenty minutes.

Where to stay: There is a wide variety of hotels to choose from. Recommendation: Hotel du Vin, 11 Bristo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 1E2 UK, 44 844 736 4255.  Price per night approx. $181.  This former asylum, turned boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Town: minutes from the Royal Mile, National Museum of Scotland, and Edinburgh Castle.

Things to see:

The Castle: this impressive medieval fortress built on a rock overlooking the city is a must see.  Most of Edinburgh’s and Scotland’s history is tied to this formidable building.  It is impossible to see it all in one day. It is vast. But a stroll through the castle at their own leisure will take visitors back in time. If possible, stay long enough to hear the cannon go off.  1:00pm every day, except Sundays.  Admission: 16:50 GBP, 28USD, Child 9:90 GBP 15USD

Holyrood Palace, Canongate, Edinburgh. Located at the end of the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace is the official residence of Queen Elizabeth 2^nd, whenever she visits Edinburgh.  The palace is open to the public from 9am- 6pm.  There is a café and gift shop. Visitors are also allowed access to the gardens and nearby park. Admission: Adult 11:60 GBP, 18USD Child 10:60 GBP, 17USD, Children 5 and under free.

Museums and galleries:

National Museum of Scotland: Chambers Street, Edinburgh. Scottish history, science and technology, world cultures, art and design, all in this amazing museum. This is where you will find Dolly the sheep: the first cloned mammal. Open daily10am-5pm. Admission free.

Scottish National Gallery: Located on the Mound, the area separating Old Town from New Town. Mon-Wed, Fri-Sun. 10am -5pm. Thurs 10am-7pm.  Admission free.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: 73/75 Belford Road, Edinburgh. Open daily 10am-5pm. Admission free.

Monuments:

Scott Monument: Gothic structure honoring Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott. Located in the Princess Street Gardens in Edinburgh’s New Town.

Calton Hill: Situated beyond the east end of Princess Street in the middle of the city is Carlton Hill. Here visitors will find, The National Monument, Nelson Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, Robert Burns Monument, City observatory etc. The Scottish philosopher David Hume is buried in the nearby Old Calton Cemetery.  Great views of the city.

Things to do:

Arthur’s Seat: Dormant volcano located in Holyrood Park adjacent to Holyrood Palace. Hike to the top, to get the most stunning views of the city.

Water of Leith walkway: Walk or bike on the path that runs alongside the river of the same name.

Edinburgh International Festival: August of every year the City of Edinburgh comes alive, with a collection of arts and cultural festivals.

Whiskey Tour: Expert guides will take visitors through the history of whiskey making. There is a barrel ride through a replica distillery. And yes tasting is involved. Prices vary based on the type of tour. Adults 14-60 GBP, 22-94 USD, Children 7GPD, 11USD. Children under 5 free. The Scotch Whiskey Experience, Castle Hill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh. Tickets can be bought online.

Walking tours: recommendation Sandemans: A free walking tour that takes visitors through Old Town. Visitors will learn interesting titbits about Scotland's and Edinburgh's history. Knowledgeable guides. Tips are welcomed at the end of the 2hr tour.

Eat/Drink

Edinburgh is definitely a foodie town. There are some really great restaurants. Recommendation: Ondine 2, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. Wonderful Seafood restaurant located in Old Town just off the Royal Mile.

The White Hart:  34 Grassmarket, Edinburgh. A supposedly haunted pub, which also claims to be the city’s oldest. Beer, Pub grub, live music.

Arcade Bar Haggis and Whiskey House. 48 Cockburn Street, Old Town.  Dedicated to both haggis and whiskey. 

Short bread. These rich, buttery, sweet, goodness are everywhere. Indulge!

Note: When visiting Scotland opt for GBP which is printed by the Bank of England and accepted all over the U.K. The Bank of Scotland also prints Scottish notes, which though widely accept in the U.K may not be accepted elsewhere. 

Edinburgh is close enough to London: less than five hours by train. Tickets start at 30 GBP, 47USD.  It is a city steeped in history and tradition. It is picturesque, clean, and charming. Take the time to visit this gem of a city on your next trip to the British Isles.  You won’t regret it!

Memorable Attractions

Memorable Attractions.

 

Immersing yourself into another world, for a day, a week, a month, can be a daunting task. Traveling, note I used the word traveling, not touring, is not for the faint-hearted. But an adventurous spirit, an open mind, a willingness to learn and adapt, and an appreciation for something other than the status quo will ensure that the experience is a positive and memorable one.

Flexibility is key when traveling. Be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. Know that high expectations often lead to disappointment. And bear in mind that not all tourist’s attractions are created equal. If standing at the top of a steel structure, and looking down at a city is of no interest to you, then don’t waste hours standing in line to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower. By all means see the Eiffel tower, take a photo, and then spend the rest of your day exploring the city at your leisure.

While some attractions are meaningless tourists’ traps, Time Square in New York City is a great example, many do have meaningful historical and cultural significance. A great many may not appear on the tourist’s guide top ten list of things to do. But they are worth the time, effort, and money. A visit will leave a lasting impression. Your cultural and personal experiences will be greatly enhanced. Here is an abbreviated list of some of my favorite attractions.

 

Mexico, Yucatan Peninsula: Chichen Itza. Prepare to spend an entire day on this excursion. It’s not cheap either. From Cancun prices are in the vicinity of $70-$100, maybe even more. Tours can be arrange via your hotel. But once there, you’ll realize it is money well spent. Chichen Itza will challenge and quite possibly restructure your beliefs on ancient human intelligence and capabilities. It will leave you with more questions than answers. But most of all it will evoke admiration and a deep appreciation for the ancient Mayan Civilization and culture.

  

New York, Liberty Island. The Statue of Liberty. Lady Liberty is a symbol of hope. She is one of New York City’s biggest tourist attractions—deservedly so.  Liberty Island is beautiful. The views are spectacular. You won’t be disappointed. A reserve ticket for the ferry, Liberty Island and Ellis Island costs $25 adults, $16 kids. Unless you’re a contortionist, and like crawling up ridiculously tiny spaces, don’t waste time or money climbing to her crown or pedestal.

Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica. Michaelangelo’s Pieta, and the Sistine Chapel. Michaelangelo’s Pieta is hauntingly beautiful, and gut wrenching. This sculpture of the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of her adult son, will generate emotions, maybe even tears. It is an image that will remain etched in your memory.

The Sistine Chapel: Michaelangelo’s painting of the Creation and the Last Judgement will captivate you. Your eyes will remain glued to the ceiling for a considerable amount of time. And you will ask yourself over and over: how on earth did he manage to do that? You will walk away believing anything is possible. Tickets for both approx. 38 euros.

Spain, Granada: The Alhambra:  A palace complex built for the last Moorish Emirs of Southern Spain. It sits on a hillside overlooking the enchanting Andalucian city of Granada. A sprawling, well preserved palace and fortress, surrounded by lush, beautiful, gardens, dotted with fountains, private patios, and reflecting pools. It is said that the Spanish King was so enamored that when the Moors were finally expelled from Southern Spain in 1492, he built his palace right next to the existing one. A visit to Granada would not be complete without seeing this serenely, beautiful, place. Tickets: Adults 14euros, Kids12 and over 8 euros. Kids 12 and under free.

France, Paris Musee Rodin: There are no lines. You won’t have to fight your way through a throng of tourists to see him. And the euros you save here can be put to good use: wine. Auguste Rodin’s sculpture of ‘The Thinker,’ seats in the garden outside the Musee Rodin where visitors can admire him at their leisure.

Notable mentions: Michaelangelo’s David: At the Academia di Belle Arti in Florence. If you cannot make it to the Academia, or would rather not spend the money, there is a replica of David outside the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.

Westminster Abbey London:  Great Gothic architecture. If like me, you are a lover of English literature, you will want to visit Poet’s Corner, the final resting place of some of England’s greatest iterary masters. Price Adults $31 Kids $14.

Lugano Switzerland: It is not a painting or a monument that made this city so memorable. Rather it is the sheer natural beauty of the landscape. This is a city where the lake and mountain conspired to create one of the most gorgeous, natural, scenery I had ever seen. It is a view you will never tire of. And best of all, it is free! A personal gift from Mother Nature.

Pisa Italy: See the leaning tower, visit the church, and then let your legs take you on a journey through this charming city. Follow the maze-like cobblestoned streets and they will take you on an epicurean adventure. Some of the most delicious food I’ve ever eaten. The wine wasn’t bad either.

 

If anyone has memorable attractions they would like to share, please do!

 

Zoe's list of child friendly cities.

 

 

At nine years old, my daughter Zoe, is a seasoned traveler. She’s been traveling since she was an infant. She has no recollections of some of the cities she’s visited. But she has three favorites from the ones that she does remember. I can’t say I’m surprised at her choices. The cities she chose are clean, safe, not very crowded, and there are a plethora of child friendly activities that will make for a fun, if not idyllic, vacation. They seem designed to keep the perpetual whining, and emotional meltdown that so many kids are known for, at bay. And yes, parents will enjoy these cities too. The next time you hear: “I’m booooorrrrrred,”will probably be on the flight home.  

 

Zoe’s list of favorite cities:

 

 

 

#3 Boulder Colorado: From a child’s perspective, it’s hard not love Boulder. Pedestrianized Pearl Street in downtown Boulder is brimming with activities.  Fun at every block! Play structures designed to keep kids active and entertained. Mesmerizing street performers: who can forget the zip code guy! Tell him a zip code, he’ll tell you where it’s located. A miniature train: those little legs need a break from all that running, hopping, climbing, and dancing.

Blocks from Pearl Street, in the middle of the city, are parks, hiking trails, biking paths, and a creek. Fishing anyone?

Want to get out and explore the different neighborhoods? Banjo Billy bus tour, 720 938-8885.  Kids can learn all about Boulder’s exciting, and sometimes scary history while seating in a saddle.   

Getting there: Fly to Denver International Airport. Fare approximately $100 to Downtown Boulder.

Hotel: Hotel Boulderado 2115 13^th Street, Boulder Co. Boulder’s oldest hotel has a colorful and storied past. It is located two blocks from Pearl Street. Fares varies: check website.

Eat: Zoe’s favorite restaurant: The kitchen, 1039 Pearl Street, Boulder Co. We had the best vegetarian meal ever, at this gem of a restaurant. 

Boulder Farmer’s Market, 1900 13^th Street, Boulder Co: Saturdays 8-2 pm and Wednesdays 4-8pm. Delightful!

Drink: The Dushanbe Tea House: Afternoon Tea. 1770 13^th Street. Boulder Co. Reservation is required. Wonderfully informal.

 

 

#2 Seattle Washington: An urban playground. Memories created here, will be cherished for years to come. What kid wouldn’t enjoying sampling the culinary delights of Pike Place Market? Or enjoy a game of ping pong at the bustling urban square that is Westlake Park? Victor Steinbruek Park, overlooking Puget Sound, provides the perfect vantage point for kids to wave at passing ferries, and gape at the huge cruise ships. Olympic Sculpture Park: bike, walk, fish, admire the sculptures, or sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the bay. The kids will be thoroughly occupied with tossing rocks into the water, and getting their feet wet.

Getting there: Seattle Tacoma Intl. Trains run from the airport to the city: $3 Taxi $40-45.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza: 1113 6^th Ave, Seattle, Washington. Located downtown Seattle within walking distance of everything you’ll need to see. There is a member’s lounge that offers complimentary breakfast, and late afternoon snacks or light dinner. Signup for free and start earning points.  Approx.: $237 per night.

Eat: Steel Head Diner, 95 Pine Street in the Pike Place Market. Best Mac n Cheese.

Drink: Storyville Coffee, located on the 2^nd flr at the South entrance of Pike Place Market. Nothing beats sipping delicious hot chocolate, in front of a roaring fire, away from the noise of a crowded market.

Café Ladro: 108 Union Street, Seattle, WA. Another pretty awesome hot chocolate spot.

Dessert: Fran’s Chocolate: 1325 1^st Avenue, Seattle, WA. Most delicious chocolate Zoe has ever tasted.

Things to do: Seattle Aquarium, Argosy Harbor Cruise. EMP Museum at the Seattle center. An entire area of the museum is a dedicated kid’s zone.  Outside, there is a sprawling playground. Here, parents have the option of sitting back and watch their kids run themselves ragged. For a $49 kids pass, the kids will be able to enjoy all of these, including the Space Needle, Pacific Science Center, and Chihuly Gardens.

Just for fun: Kids will count the number of steps (I stopped counting after we got to 100) that lead from Alaska Way where the Aquarium is located, to the top floor of the Pike Place Market.

Tours: There are free walking tours.  Seattle 101 is informative and very kids appropriate. At two hours long, it might be a bit much. That said, Zoe enjoyed it.

Ride the Duck Tours: A bus/boat will ferry you across both land and sea. There’s music, and the general mayhem that comes with kids and adults singing along to YMCA, sightseeing and interesting titbits about the city of Seattle. Meeting point, Seattle Center, outside the EMP Museum. Price $32 adults, $20 kids.

 

 

 

City #1 Vancouver British Columbia: Two words: Stanley Park. Zoe has never met a park she didn’t like. So it’s no surprise that her memories of Stanley Park reign supreme. Can’t say I blame her. This urban masterpiece is by far the biggest, and quite possibly the best, kid’s playground of all.

Things to do: Stanley Park: Located in the middle of the city, within walking or biking distance of most hotels, Stanley Park is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. It has just about everything that would keep a kid mesmerized for a very long period of time: days! There is the swimming pool, the beach, tennis, miniature golf, the aquarium, ponds, lakes, lagoons, gardens, play grounds, trails, and bike paths. Stroll along the scenic seawall. Ride the miniature train. Stop long enough to admire the monuments and sculptures.  Have your kids sit for a portrait-yes there are artists. There is an abundance of wildlife. There are horse drawn carriages, or shuttle tours, and restaurants too. The wealth of activities seem endless.

The weather can be an issue. It rains a lot in Vancouver. But the kids won’t care. Zoe didn’t care.  Rain boots and raincoats are highly recommended.

Getting there: Fly to YVR Vancouver Intl Airport. Fare from the airport to the city center: Ranges from $24-$40.

Hotel: Sutton Place Hotel: 85 Burrard Street, Vancouver, B.C. Approx.: $350 per night. Wonderful hotel, centrally located, within walking distance of just about everything.

Eat: Cactus Club Café: 588 Burrard Street, Vancouver, B.C. Zoe remembers the flatbread with goat cheese and smoked salmon.

Drink: Revolver: Cafe located at 325 Cambie Street in the Gastown neighborhood. Rich, decadent, hot chocolate and freshly baked pastries.

Cultural activities: The Vancouver Jazz Festival, held every June. The year we visited, it was held outside the Vancouver Art Gallery at 75 Hornsby Street, Vancouver B.C. Great music, great food: we had a blast.

So why, might you ask, would these three cities appeal to a kid? Because they’re fun! Kids like to have fun! But I have another theory. All three cities have one thing in common: every activity that a child would possibly enjoy is within a one to three mile radius within the city center. In the case of Vancouver, almost every activity is located within Stanley Park. With no bus, car, train, or ferry ride to contend with, kids can walk out of their hotels and immediately begin exploring the sights and sounds around them. That said, if the opportunity ever presents itself, take your kids to at least one of these cities. They will thank you for it.