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.
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 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.
When most people think of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, they think about cruising and the beach. While these certainly are a part of the overall vibe of Fort Lauderdale, there is so much more to a visit there than just the beach.
For more than 20 years, Broward Center for the Performing Arts has been bringing the arts to residents and visitors. Concerts of all sorts are offered. Make it an entire evening by booking dinner at Serenade, the upscale dining venue at the Center.
The Parker Playhouse is part of the Broward Performing Arts Center and has a 40 plus year history of providing a great venue for smaller productions. The Playhouse seats slightly more than 1,100 patrons.
Fort Lauderdale has a unique Antique Car Museum. It is dedicated to the Packard and has 22 of them that date from 1909 through 1947. In addition, there are other items collected by Arthur O. Stone.
From the IMAX Theatre to the child-friendly exhibits, the Museum of Discovery and Science is a place the entire family can and will enjoy. A newer permanent exhibit about the human body adds a new dimension to the already jam-packed museum.
Every visitor to Fort Lauderdale should take a tour and what could be more fun than a paddle boat. The Jungle Queen offers three-hour sightseeing of the New River. It also offers a BBQ dinner at 6 p.m. in the evening. Dine on chicken, BBQ ribs and shrimp while enjoying a comedy revue. The boat provides a delicious and memorable evening’s entertainment.
Dining
When you are ready to eat, head to the Las Olas Riverfront area. This area has a wide selection of dining options including Big City Tavern, Café de Paris and The Tilted Kilt just to name a few.
When you are planning a visit to Fort Lauderdale you will find lots of things to see and do. It is easy to get there and you will find plenty of places to stay and eat. You can spend an entire vacation getting to know the area. You can use this guide to help you plan the perfect trip.
More information:
http://www.granadainn.net
http://www.junglequeen.com
http://browardcenter.org/
http://www.mods.org
http://www.antiquecarmuseum.org/
Who would have guessed that someone whom we had never heard of before we visit his house, Friendship Hill, would have turned out to be such a fascinating man.. Albert Gallatin was born in Switzerland and came to this country as a young man. Among other things, he taught French at Harvard before moving west to the Pittsburgh area. He was elected to Congress and eventually was the Secretary of the Treasury under Thomas Jefferson.
His major claims to fame are the fact that he is responsible for the Louisiana Purchase and also for getting the Louis and Clarke Expedition going. It is hard to imagine why someone who was so important to this country’s early development has been almost entirely forgotten by the majority of Americans.
Friendship Hill is the home he built and where he brought home his first wife, Sophie Allegre. This is a sad story, Sophie died within months of their wedding having married against the wishes of her mother and never having been reconciled with her. Her grave is still on the property and though it is unmarked per her wishes it is surrounded by a small wall so that you can find it. Eventually, Albert did marry and had children but his wife never cared much for the house, she was a city girl and I am sure that as the second wife didn’t need to be reminded of his first love.
The house is now owned by the National Park Service. You begin your visit in the gift shop, there is a short video that you can sit and watch. Albert introduces himself to you and also tells you his story. You then walk through the house on a self-guided tour. There is an elevator to take you to the second floor and to the basement where the restrooms are. A couple of rooms are offered that can only be viewed by walking up a staircase.
The grounds are well worth walking through. A gazebo in the rear of the property has great views of the Monongahela River. You can also choose to visit Sophie’s grave which is across the yard, down a hill, along a meadow and through the woods. It is definitely not wheelchair accessible.
Picnic tables are located near the parking lot if you care to bring your lunch and the walkway from the lot is steep but paved so it would be accessible.
The gift shop has the typical Park Department items with a few really interesting books thrown in. Admission is free. I highly recommend a visit to Friendship Hill which is located in Marion, Pennsylvania.
The Philadelphia Museum of Art was founded in 1876. With over 200,000 pieces of art in its collection, it encompasses everything from textiles to Eastern art. It has one of the finest American collections in the world. The collection is anchored by local artist Thomas Eakins. The museum contains not only pieces of artwork but also furniture, glass, pottery and silver. It is a comprehensive collection that can stand up against just about any museum in the world.
Even if you have never visited Philadelphia, chances are you know what the art museum looks like. When Rocky runs up the stairs in that famous scene, he is doing it on the front stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It is a very distinctive building and makes a great impression when you first see it. If you are like most people who visit Philadelphia however, you will want to take your turn running up the stairs humming the Rocky theme. To enter the museum however, you will need to go around to the other side of the building.
When you enter the museum, check to see what special tours they are offering that day. The board next to the main desk will give you that information. You can also pick up a copy of Today at the Museum which will tell you what is being offered. If you visit on Sunday you can make whatever donation you choose as your entrance fee.
Among the tours that are offered is a headphone tour narrated by the Director of the museum called “Director’s Delights” there is also one called” Museum Highlights”. If you have the time it is worth your while to do one of these tours.
The second floor of the museum has the Old Masters collection. Galleries 250-299 cover European art from 1500-1850. These galleries contain a variety of art and styles, as well as period rooms. One exceptional piece is the portrait of Queen Marie Antoinette by Elisabeth Viger LeBrun, On the Director’s Tour, you are led to the Landsdowne Room, an Adams drawing room which once graced Landsdowne House in London. It has an amazing ceiling and this room has played host to many famous people during its heyday.
Among the early European artists featured are Rogier Van der Weyden and Jan Van Eyck. Van Eyck’s painting of St Francis is a difficult painting to find because it is very tiny. In a place of prominence, you will find the Hudon’s bust of Benjamin Franklin; it seems fitting, since this is Philadelphia where Franklin lived for so many years.
The arms and armor collection is a favorite with men and boys and the textiles collection will delight any of the girls and woman in your group. On Sundays, special programs are offered for the children in the family. To find out any special exhibits that they will be hosting check out their website.
If you get hungry, there is a cafeteria, as well as a more formal restaurant. There are several gift shops, with the main one being in the same area as the restaurants. If you are staying in downtown Philadelphia one of the stops on Phlash Bus is the Philadelphia Museum of Art. There is a parking lot but the number of spots is limited. Why not join the 1 million other people who will visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art this year. You will not be disappointed.
When it comes to views in Chattanooga, Tenn, there is nowhere that can compare with the Bluff View Arts District. This is the area of town where the wealthy chose to make their home in days past. Today, it covers a block and a half and encompasses museums, galleries, restaurants and the Bluff View Inn. If you are looking for someplace interesting to stay, this is a good choice.
The Inn consists of three separate historic houses. All of them have the potential to have great views, it just depends on the price you are willing to spend for your room. We were not willing to pay for the view, and really unless you want to be able to look out your window and see the river, you don't need to either. Great views can be had by just walking along the River Walk.
The website for the Bluff View Inn really does give a pretty accurate picture of what the rooms look like. They are all pretty and we asked and were shown quite a few of them. I enjoyed seeing the luxury of the rooms in the other two buildings but we opted to stay at the more affordable Thompson House.
We had the Newell Room. It was on the ground floor and had a king sized bed. It was the library in the house and the sliding doors were indicative of that use. There was free WiFi and cable TV. We also had a sofa and a coffee table which I used as my office while we were there. Our bed was very comfortable, we slept great. The bathroom was large and well stocked as well. We were very comfortable here.
The parlor was right outside of our room and we gathered there to indulge in the soft drinks and water that were provided in the afternoon. There was a gas fireplace that provided some atmosphere as well as warmth since we visited in January. In the early morning, coffee is delivered to the hall outside of our room and we could relax with a cup while reading the local newspaper which was also delivered.
A Continental breakfast was available to us at the coffee shop down the street. This was my least favorite thing. It was always busy, crowded and we had a hard time lingering. I think we should have just picked up our food and gone back to the room, it would have been more enjoyable.
Free parking is provided and the location on The Bluff is perfect. Many of the things you may want to do in Chattanooga are located either right on the Bluff or very close by. It is within an easy walk from the aquarium and some interesting shopping.
The one downside of the Thompson House is the fact that the highway is so close. In the morning the noise from rush hour traffic was distracting. A light sleeper might have a hard time in the Thompson House.
I really did enjoy staying here, there is a real character to the houses and on the weekends, you do get a breakfast at the McClellan House which is really good, luckily we had one weekend night. There is a lot to be said for not having to take out the car unless you really want to. I would not hesitate at stay again at the Bluff View Inn in Chattanooga.
