Texas: Austin Music Festivals

Austin has adopted the slogan "The Live Music Capital of the World" and they couldn't have made a better choice. The city offers festivals for music lovers of every genre. Here is just a sampling of what this vibrant city has to offer.

South by Southwest

For over twenty years the South by Southwest music festival has been bringing music and so much more to Austin every March. This isn't just a one-weekend event; it's an 11-day event that makes the whole city throb with crowds of music and cinema lovers.

This is not a one venue festival; it takes place all over town. It is more than just a festival it is a convention. Artists come to share both their knowledge and their talent. You will be able to hear the various artists at many locations around the city.

Even Superman couldn't do them all so you will need to find out where and when your favorites are going to be performing and make sure that you don't miss your favorites. This is as much about making connections for the artists as it is for the audiences to enjoy the performances.

Old Settlers Music Festival

In April Austin offers American music at its finest and the bluebonnets are at their finest this time of year as well. Come to listen to great music, eat delicious food and if you want to sleep in your tent that is available too. This is a family event with lots of activities geared toward the kids and runs Thursday to Sunday.

Austin City Limits Festival

The Austin City Limits Festival is a six-day event which takes place every October. Zilker Park comes alive as eight stages host hundreds of bands with such well-known groups as Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band and Beastie Boys headlining in years past.

You can purchase a three-day pass or a single day for whichever day you might want to attend. They are on sale at the official website for the festival along with parking passes.

While music is the main theme of the weekend it doesn't end there. The Austin Eats Food Court will introduce you to a variety of local restaurants and cuisines. It is a great way to try out a variety of eateries all at one central location.

The SoCo Art Market will offer local arts and crafts and other very interesting items. It is different every year so you can never be sure who and what will be here.

For the kids, the Austin Kiddie Limits is the place to be. Kids under 10 get in free with a ticket-bearing adult. You can never start too young to introduce your kids to music and this is the perfect way to do it. They can learn how to be and look like a rock star or just enjoy the sights and sounds of the festivals, kid's style.

The Austin City Limits Festival offers activities and fun for the whole family to enjoy.

Celtic Music Festival

November brings the sounds of the British Isles to Austin. You don't have to have Celtic roots to enjoy the highland games, the dancing, the storytelling and the music of Ireland and Scotland. The sounds of the bagpipes and the flute will make you feel roots you never knew you had.

Austin is indeed the live music capital of the world and it has the festivals to back that title up. No matter what type of music you prefer, you will find it in Austin's music festivals.

More information:
http://www.aclfestival.com
http://www.austincelticfestival.com

An Emotional Visit to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza Dallas

For me, the one reason I had for visiting Dallas was to visit the 6th Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. I don ‘t think that there is anyone who was alive on November 22, 1963, who doesn’t remember exactly where he was when he heard the news. A whole nation was stunned. It was as if time stopped as if our innocence was shattered. As far as impact goes it ranks right up there with September 11, 2001. 

In our family, this was a date we could never forget because it was also my fathers birthday. I was in 8th grade in 1963. We were all called back to our homerooms and told that the president had been shot and killed. We were let out of school early and for days just sat home glued to the television.

This museum brought this all back with a vengeance but though I cried several times while going through it was also cathartic, as if finally it could be put to rest. I am so glad that we went even though we all admitted that we left with a very heavy heart.

NO photography is allowed in the museum. You enter through the lobby and take the elevator to the 6th floor. The displays are chronological and include pictures, lots to read and some memorabilia. We start by learning about John F Kennedy, his family, his political life, the campaign and the years of his presidency. We work our way slowly into November 1963. We followed the President and Mrs. Kennedy through the other cities in Texas to that fateful noon in Dallas.

As we work our way to the sixth-floor window where Lee Harvey Oswald had created a barricade, it becomes more and more emotional. I find myself wanting the ending to change. I think everybody there was hoping the same thing.

On the 7th floor, there is an exhibit from the Dallas Police Department detailing the day from their perspective. It was a difficult time, they were prepared for some protesters but no one had any idea that this type of plan was afoot. After shooting President Kennedy, Lee Harvey Oswald killed a Dallas Police Officer and for a while, no one knew that it was the same man who had committed both crimes. The door that was on the precinct on that particular day is in this exhibit.
Entrance to the museum is $16. There is also a 45-minute audio tour for an additional $4.00.  

There are several other video exhibits that last a few minutes each along the way and then there is a small theater where a 10-minute video entitled “The Nation and World Responds” is shown.

You end your tour by passing through the proverbial gift shop. The museum has it’s own parking lot with paid parking. 

The Dallas Museum of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art developed from a modest beginning in the Public Library. A dedicated group of citizens set about making the space an attractive, well-lit area. Once they had space they began procuring additional art to display. The first two works were My Gondolier’s Kitchen by Herbert Faulkner and September Moonrise by Childe Hassam. These led to other donations and acquisitions, and in 1903 The Dallas Art Association was formed. In 1909 the DAA donated their collection to the City of Dallas.

In 1984 the museum moved downtown and since has expanded and supplemented the original building as need and funds have allowed. Major donations have given them a fabulous decorative art’s collection. Today the museum has more than 23,000 pieces of art from ancient to modern.

We began our visit by having lunch at the Atrium Café. Even the Café is a work of art. The large windows are covered in colorful glass flowers. There is a headphone tour that you may request at the check-in desk.

We fell in love with this museum. We began in the American section and they have done a wonderful job of integrating the art and the decorative arts. I was absolutely floored to find a late 18th-century portrait that had a view of the town hall in my hometown, Middletown Ct. in the background. I have never seen a picture of the town hall from that period before and I am not quite sure if anyone knows that there is one. I was mesmerized by it.

Photography without flash is allowed in the museum so as you can imagine I had a ball. You need to look at your map of the museum because some of the Impressionist Art is a little hard to find. It is shown in room settings and you need to find the rooms. There is something extra special about seeing the art in the rooms as it would have been displayed.

The silver collection is excellent. The Gorham dressing table and stool are like nothing else you have ever seen. Created for the Paris exposition it is breathtaking and just the tip of the iceberg.

Expect to see artwork by John Singleton Copley, Frederick Church, John Singer Sargent, Georgia O'Keefe, Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, Piet Modrian, Henri Matisse, and much more.

For us, however, the standout was the Wendy and Emery Reeves Collection. Consisting of more than 1,400 pieces, it was donated to the Museum in 1984. The Museum opened a 16,500-floor wing to house the collection. It will knock your socks off. The rooms recreate the Villa of La Pausa where the Reeves entertained among others, Winston Churchill and Greta Garbo. This will help explain the small room of Churchill artworks and memorabilia. Add to this, works by Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, Sisley, and Monet among others and you will get a small idea of the magnificence that awaits you.

State parks near Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix proper has a desert climate and yet within just a short drive, you can find yourself in the mountains where you can swim in crystal clear waters, walk among tall green trees of the verdant forests or take advantage of any number of outdoor sports and activities. The desert has its own haunting beauty but in the heat of spring, summer, and fall, people in the city often prefer to escape to the cooler areas nearby. Many state parks of the Phoenix area offer activities for every member of the family.

The Phoenix metro area has many state parks and also some city parks that can provide a more rural atmosphere. Among the city parks are South and North Mountain Parks. If you are looking for state parks, here are a few you should consider visiting.

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

If you want to try camping, this park which is located along the Verde River offers sites for those who want a site with amenities and also more rustic ones. The Verde River Greenway offers the opportunity to hike, bike and picnic. It is quite high in the mountains at 3,300 feet and spacious at 423 acres.

Located along the Verde River this State Park offers campsites both with and without electricity, picnic areas, hiking and biking trails and the Verde River Greenway Natural Area. There are 423 developed acres and the elevation of 3,300 feet makes it ideal for all outdoor endeavors.

No matter what your level of fitness, one of the 10 trails will be perfect for you. They vary greatly in distance and in difficulty. The Verde River Greenway has canoeing, kayaking, fishing and swimming. Many birds make their home in the area and you might see blue herons or black hawks, every season offers different choices.

Lost Dutchman State Park

One of the mysteries of the southwest is that of the legend of the Lost Dutchman Mine. Generations of treasure hunters have flocked to the area looking for his lost gold. They miss the real treasure of the park, the desert landscape. Lost Dutchman State Park offers hiking trails, camping, picnic facilities and nature trails. In the summer temperatures can rise above 100 degrees. A visit in the winter will be more comfortable at 60 degrees.

The Superstition Mountains offer a change of altitude and provide a sense of mystery. Is there really a lost Dutchman's Mine, no one knows for sure but what we do know is that many people have died trying to find it. Don't become one of them, respect this area and always have a plan in case you get lost.

Plan to enjoy one or more of the five hiking trails that are available. They vary from less than a mile to over five miles. Always carry plenty of water especially in the summertime.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Boyce Thompson Arboretum is an amazing place to visit. It is the oldest and largest of its kind in Arizona. It covers 323 acres and offers guest a chance to become familiar with the outstanding variety of the fauna of Arizona. They offer a variety of special programs and tours throughout the year.
Fort Verde State Historical Park

Some state parks are more about history than hiking and Fort Verde is one of them. Three historic buildings are located within the grounds and provide guests with a good idea of what life would have been like at a 19th-century fort during the Indian Wars.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Tonto Natural Bridge is believed to be the largest of its kind in the world. Nature created this over a period of thousands of years. It can be seen from the top or you can walk below it. This is a very difficult hike. Even though the trails are short their require strength and stamina. The facilities are limited to a gift shop, picnic tables and a portable restroom.

As you can see, the abundant state parks of the Phoenix metro area have a lot to offer. No matter what types of outdoor activities you enjoy, you will find it in one or more of these parks.

Ancient Attractions of the Middle East

The Middle East is an area of great historical significance. Visiting the ancient attractions of the Middle East is a dream for many including myself. Located within its geographical borders are the roots of three of the world’s great religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

According to Carol J. Riphenburg, Ph.D. in the academic community, the term Middle East refers to the Arab countries of North Africa; the Arab countries of Asia; Israel; and the non-Arab countries of Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey.

According to some broader definitions, it may also include the five countries of Central Asia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Some might also include Azerbaijan. Many must-see archeological sites are located in this array of countries.

Babylon

The remains of the ancient city of Babel are in the current day country of Iraq. The political unrest in the area makes this a difficult place to actually visit but in no way diminishes its importance as an archeological site. The location of the city has never been in question. They were just not excavated until 1899. Under the debris of ages was found the remnants of the magnificent walls, Nebuchadnezzar Palace, the foundation of the Tower of Babel and the main procession road.

It was thought at the time that the basement of the Hanging Gardens had been discovered but modern-day archeologists dispute that finding and agree that the location thought to be the gardens is likely something else. Enough remains of this magnificent empire to make a visit to Babylon something that lovers of history and archeology would most certainly enjoy.

Troy

Who has not heard of the Trojan Horse, made famous by Homer in his epic story the lliad? The history of Troy, however, is older than this time of the war between Troy and Sparta, going back as far as the Bronze Age and lasting well into the Ottoman era. Troy is not just one city, it is a series of cities built one upon the other as its predecessor fell victim to a catastrophic event either man-made or natural.

Archeologists have found evidence of what was probably the burning of the city by the Spartans and it has also fallen to an earthquake. It is perhaps one of the best known archeological sites in the world and was discovered over 200 years ago, It remains just as interesting today. With its located in Turkey, it is not hard to see that it held an important geographic location for trade to the area.

Petra

Located in the kingdom of Jordan, Petra is one of the most magnificent archeological ruins in the world. Today, it is more of a tourist attraction than an active archeological site but that does not detract from what was created here and what still exists.

Carved into the rose-colored cliffs of this city are the facades of magnificent buildings and archeologist are discovery more about this fascinating city all the time. They now know that it began in about 100 B.C. and thrived for 400 years. It was a rich city with pleasure palaces and lush gardens. Excavations in the area are revealing more information all the time. It is without doubt, stunningly beautiful and is a must-see for anyone who enjoys great architecture and historically significant locations.

These are just three of the many archeological sites that are located throughout the Middle East. Jerusalem is an archeological gem though it is very difficult to do archeological digs within the city these days. The Valley of the Kings in Egypt is still giving up its secrets after so many years. The Middle East has much to offer when it comes to history and archeology and without doubt, there are many treasures still to be discovered.

Off the Beaten Track in Switzerland

Switzerland will forever be associated with the story of Heidi, and in the minds of many all there is to Switzerland is the Alps. While the Alps are magnificent and certainly are an important part of Switzerland, there is much more to this delightfully neutral country than just yodeling and the Matterhorn. Wonderful food, exceptional art and charming cities and towns await the adventurous traveler. Going off the beaten track in Switzerland will give you a better picture of the real Switzerland. 

Am Romerholz Winterthur

One of the finest private art collections in the world is located overlooking the city of Winterthur. Winterthur is the 6th largest city in Switzerland and also one of its most artistically rich. Oskar Reinhart was a businessman who was also a very serious art collector. What he managed to accumulate in his lifetime is quite astonishing. The house is still set up like a home with an art gallery added. There are works from the old masters such as Lucas Cranach, Matthias Grunewald and Pieter Bruegel. An exceptionally deep collection of French Impressionists completes the collection including works by Monet, Manet and Cezanne hung alongside works by Van Gogh, Goya and Poussin.

This is the perfect place to spend an afternoon and stop at the cafe for a bite to eat after or enjoy lunch before you begin, it is a very good choice and in spite of being a captive audience, you will be happy that you chose to dine there. 

Fribourg

Fribourg is a delightful medieval city with wonderful museums and facades to enjoy. The city is on two levels, there is an upper city and the older lower city. It is a feast for the eyes, there are so many beautiful old buildings. Strolling through the streets, stopping to enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious pastry, are all part of the entire appeal of the city. This is primarily a French-speaking part of Switzerland. The Art and History Museum is a treasure and is a delight to wander through though English subtitles are noticeably missing. I came here because my one Swiss ancestor, Pierre Miville was born here. 

Gempen

The tiny village of Gempen is high up in the Alps. It has stunning views out over the valley below. The reason to come all this way up is to eat in the restaurant that is perched on what seems to be the edge of the earth. Gempen is located in the north of Switzerland, not too far from the city of Basel. The menu reflects this heritage and is German in inspiration. The food, however good, isn’t the main attraction, it is the view. Sit and eat and enjoy the spectacular scenery that is Switzerland. We came here to have fondue and excellent fondue it was.

Switzerland is full of famous places to visit but sometimes the traveler prefers to choose the road less traveled and absorb all the atmosphere, the history and the food that an area has to offer. Switzerland is a country that inspires just this sort of a visit. Going off the beaten track in Switzerland will provide enough memories to last a lifetime.

Key West on a budget

Key West has a reputation for being a getaway that is glamorous and expensive. It was indeed the place where Ernest Hemingway and President Harry S. Truman came to chill out, but it is also the land of Jimmy Buffett and Margueritaville.

The reputation for being expensive is true. The area is small and the demand is large, this will result in higher prices. However, there are many ways to travel to Key West and keep your expenses within your budget.

Understanding Key West

Key West is an island. It is the farthest of the Keys from Miami, more than 150 miles. Most of the road is a two-lane highway that works its way through the Keys. If you drive from Miami, it will take over three and a half hours. You can choose to arrive by plane, ferry or cruise ship if the drive doesn't sound like fun. 

Cruising into Key West

One of the most budget-friendly ways to visit Key West is on a cruise. You will pull into port, hop off and see the city on your own or take one of the tours that are offered. You can take a trolley, hop on the conch train, rent a bicycle or the most budget-friendly way of all, walking. The downtown area is small and walking is not going to wear you out.

Rent a condo

Accommodations are one of the big expenses on Key West. One way to minimize the amount that you spend is to rent a condo. This will not only save you money but it will give you extra space making it a particularly family-friendly option. Car rentals are expensive and it may be a more budget-friendly option to explore on a bicycle. Cabs are also easy to call and not too expensive.

Eating on a budget

Key West offers lots of dining options. If you opt for a condo you will be able to buy groceries for some of your meals and cook in. Grab the ingredients and make a picnic or just try to go a little away from the main tourist area. These strategies will allow you more money for the exploring part of your visit to Key West. You will want to explore the water on Key West and bringing your own snorkeling equipment with you will be much more budget friendly than renting.

Others ways to explore Key West

By renting a condo and cooking meals in you will save enough money to allow for a little splurge in your budget. One way to splurge is to explore the ocean with a jet ski. You can rent these by the hour and get a totally different view of the sparkling water and the beautiful sunsets. Another way to explore Key West is to get out and try parasailing. If these are a little too much for you, why not take a catamaran or sailboat tour.

Key West is a fantastic place to explore. Miles of beaches and almost continual sunshine beckon. Some of the most gorgeous sunsets in the world and sparkling blue water are yours to see for free. With careful planning, you will be able to do everything you want to and still visit Key West on a budget.