Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category

« Older Entries
Post Comment

Reason for the Season


2010
01.06

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in California US | Post Comment »

Although we did not get to spend Christmas with our family in other countries, we’re glad to have dear friends to share their holidays with us. From Missouri they flew to Arizona to spend this special occasion. We watched an off broad way show of “A Christmas Carol” the day before Christmas and then shared a simple dinner at home. Christmas morning we opened amazing gifts and then prepared for a long drive to San Diego for a nice off at the Pacific beach.

Crystal Pier – San Diego, California

We then visited Sea World. That day was full packed but we got lucky our friends work at AB which owns Sea World and got us ticket passes easy as a breeze. Truly, fun is five times fun when shared with friends!

Journey to Atlantis ride

Pet Stadium

Sea Lion and Otter Stadium

Feeding the Flamingos

Sky Tower Ride

Baby Orcas

A cool Moo that is too cute to ignore!

Next morning, the guys visited the old town while us girls explore the beach, wet our feet, relax as the beach sung its lullaby, took pictures, picked shells(I found my first sand dollar!) and went for shopping where we bought shirts and other interesting souvenirs.

Hi. My name is Sandy =P (Thank you Shubhra!)

Giant bird and octopus art at the jogging area.

Sea Gulls

A nice day for surfers.

Last day at San Diego – we packed our stuffs and had a final look at the beach before we head home. In our hearts we thank the blessings of family, good health, friends, work and God given strength and prayed for continued courage to get through the trials ahead. Most especially, I thank Jesus as HE is the reason for the season.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” ~ Isaiah 9:6


  • Share/Bookmark
Post Comment

Antwerp Central Station – Antwerp, Belgium


2009
05.16

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Antwerp Central Station | Post Comment »

 

 

centralstation_sunsetinmycoffee

 

While in Belgium we stayed in a studio which was really close to the Antwerp Central Station. The exterior architecture is exceptional that I couldn’t believe there’s a railway inside. It just suit to be called as the “Cathedral Railway” for its extraordinary beauty and eclecticism.

 

 

 

The original station was built between 1895 and 1905. The terminal is considered as the oldest railway line in Belgium.

 

 

underconstruction__sunsetinmycoffee

 

 

The building has a huge dome and the interior is decorated with different kinds of marbles and stone. The ceilings are covered by huge iron and glass.

 

 

central_station_sideview__sunsetinmycoffee

 

The station won 4th place as one of the world’s most beautiful station in the American Newspaper ‘Newsweek’

 

Credit: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/

Credit: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/

Incredible structure of the Central Station.

 

Antwerp Zoo Entrance

Antwerp Zoo Entrance

 

Antwerp Diamond Museum

Antwerp Diamond Museum

 

The Central Zoo and the Diamond Museum is close to the Central Station. The area has countless jewelry shops and the place is considered as the financial center of the world’s diamond industry.

 

Chimera

Chimera

 

A chimera sculpture (gargoyles in layman’s terminology) atop the Diamond Museum. The grotesque form was said to scare off evil spirits so they were used for protection.

 

Surrounding Buildings

Surrounding Buildings

 

Taken in late afternoon, storm ahead.

Storm ahead.

 

Taken on a lovely day. Already dark at 4:50pm.

Taken on a lovely day. Already dark at 4:50pm.

 

 

 

  • Share/Bookmark
2 comments

Meramec Cavern, Stanton


2009
04.06

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Meramec Cavern, Stanton | 2 Comments »

merameccaverns_sunsetinmycoffee

The Meramec Cavern used to be a refuge for the Native American Tribes during extreme weather and later on discovered by French explorers, the cave provided the French colonial miners with saltpeter or potassium nitrate, a key ingredient of gunpowder at that time. Legend says that the cave also served as hide out for Jesse James in the 1870’s. Today, the Meramec Caverns is the most visited cave in the state of Missouri. It offers guided tours of the rarest, unusual and colorful formations in the world.

Displayed was a brief History of the Early Explorers

Brief History of the Early Explorers

Miners of saltpeter and lead

Miners of saltpeter and lead

Jesse James

Jesse James

In the entrance stands a statue of the famous outlaw, Jesse James.

jessejameshideout_sunsetinmycoffe

A make shift cabin of Jesse James.

stalactites_sunsetinmycoffee

hangingstalactites_sunsetinmycoffee

Hanging stalactites and stalagmites.

Stairs to view the wine room

Stairs to view the wine room

Are you claustrophobic? No problem, there are no tight spaces on the tour.

The temperature inside the cave is 58-60 degrees so you might want to bring a light jacket.

"Wine Table"

"Wine Table"

wineroom_sunsetinmycoffee

formation_sunsetinmycoffee

“Wine table” consist of ragonite formation (most rare formation) the largest in the world. It got its name because of the grape like clusters that surrounds the formation.

13onyxmountain_sunsetinmycoffee

“Onyx Mountain” – a massive onyx formation, it is still growing.

"Jungle Room"

"Jungle Room"

"Jungle Room" with lights

"Jungle Room" with light

The “Jungle Room” is named because of the stone formations in it resembles a jungle vegetation.

Stage Curtain

Stage Curtain

Stage Curtain in lights

Stage Curtain in lights

The cave’s most prized possession is the “The Stage Curtain” a 70-million-year old calcite formation, standing nearly 70 feet tall. It does resemble a huge curtain on a stage! The tour guide (trained Ranger) asked us to seat on the assembled chairs in front of the stage for a presentation. They played two songs and used this formation to display dramatic light and musical show. What a great finale!

Visit the Gift shops for affordable souvenirs. We bought some gemstones and fools gold.

The Meramec Caverns is open everyday except Thanksgiving and Christmas. It departs every 20-30 minutes starting at 9:00 am. The tour takes one hour and twenty minutes to complete the one mile round trip. Rates for adult is $18, $9 for children ages 5-11 and free for ages 4 and under. Check as rates changes.

Directions: From downtown St. Louis, take I-44 West to Exit 230 (Stanton) and follow the signs to the Caverns.

After visiting the Cavern you might want to check out other activities:

1. Riverboat rides – A half hour long tour on the Meramec River aboard a canopy-topped riverboat. Tickets: $7 (adults) $5 (children 5-11)

2. Canoe Floats – A six or eleven mile float on the Meramec River. For more info and reservations call 1-573-468-6463

3. Dino Dig – Wanted to act as a paleontologist? Kids will surely enjoy digging those fossils out and it theirs to keep! Open only on June, July and August. Cost per fossil dig $6.99, Combo pack $ 9.99.

4. Lantern Tours – An 80 minutes guide-led tour detailing variety of historical characters along the way. Reservations needed. Rates: $20 (adults) $10 (kids 5-11) Call for availability.

5. Pan for Gold – Children can pan for gemstones, fossils and fools gold. Cost $5.99 small bag, $7.99 large bag, $9.99 emerald mine rough, $5.99 for an arrowhead rough mine.

  • Share/Bookmark
Post Comment

Gateway Arch, Saint Louis


2009
04.01

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Gateway Arch, Saint Louis | Post Comment »

 

We were lucky that our close friends were staying at Missouri, not only we had a great time staying and hanging out with them but we got the chance to roam Saint Louis also. The famous Arch was just close by so there was no excuse not to see it. We didn’t mind that it was drizzling that day, we parked and walked till we got close to the Arch.

 

 

The Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch

 

 

Front View of the Arch

Front View of the Arch

 

 

Tallest national monument in US

Tallest national monument in US

 

The Gateway Arch is the tallest national monument in the United States that rises 630 feet high, designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen. It was built to withstand high winds and earthquakes. The structure was inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision of the westward expansion in the USA.

 

Basilica of Saint Louis

Basilica of Saint Louis

 

Also, the Basilica of Saint Louis stands near the south leg of the Gateway Arch. It was decreed Basilican status in 1961 by his Holiness, the late Pope John Paul XXIII.

 

Mississippi River

Mississippi River

 

View of the Mississippi River

 

bridgebetmsil_sunsetinmycoffee

 

The bridge between Missouri and Illinois

 

If you want go all the way up the arch, there is tram that leaves almost every 10 minutes and the ticket can be purchased in either the north or south entrance. It is open between 8pm-10pm in summer and 9am-6pm during winter but is closed in Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year.

 

Our friends had been there like the nth time I think lol but they were still pretty excited for us :)

 

 

 

 

  • Share/Bookmark
Post Comment

Butterfly Haven, Pulilan, Bulacan


2009
03.30

Tags: ,
Posted in Butterfly Haven, Pulilan, Bulacan | Post Comment »

 

Framed Dried and Preserved Butterflies

Framed Dried and Preserved Butterflies

 

Butterfly Haven is a miniature Eden for different species of butterflies. It is located in the town of Pulilan in the province of Bulacan, Central part of Luzon in the Philippines. As a butterfly enthusiast it was such a thrill to be close to a breeding habitat of this fascinating creature.

 

Before the tour starts, we watched a video presentation on the life cycle of the butterfly and then only the guide took us around the garden, showing us the various stages and types of butterflies. After the guided tour, we got to explore the lush greenery. We then strolled around, sat on the bench and just watched the butterflies flutter their little wings. We sat there in awe as they displayed their colorful wings and moved gracefully. It was just feast for the eyes!

 

The habitat also has a man made fall and a small cave that serves as a butterfly nursery. The haven houses different species of orchids and ornament plants. Other attractions include an antique house which gave glimpse of the era that had gone by. This is the ancestral home of the Andan-Caleon clan, the owner of the haven. The area also has a small observation room which displays photographs of butterflies bred at the haven. Visitors are also welcome to dip on their swimming pool after a wonderful experience in the garden. And if you wanted some souvenir they have a store for that too. The place includes a beautiful courtyard for functions. Just call them up in advance for reservations.

 

The best experience was feeding the butterflies, luring them with a piece of mashed banana in our fingertips then letting them fly afterwards. It was simply amazing. I won’t mind visiting again.

 

How to get there?

 

Address: Pulilan Butterfly Haven

San Francisco St

Pililan, Bulacan

Philippines 3005

 

From North Expressway Balintawak Interchange

1.     Drive north on the Expressway till you reach Pulilan exit.

2.     Turn right and follow the Pulilan highway (You’ll pass Nestle Phils, Purina and a small chapel)

3.     Upon seeing the small chapel (right side), turn left into Sandico Street and drive about a block till you reach San Francisco Street.

 

 

 

  • Share/Bookmark
2 comments

Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu


2009
03.28

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu | 2 Comments »

 

Mamallapuram meaning “the town of Mamalla, the great wrestler” also known as Mahabalipuram meaning “the town of the great king Bali” it is a town located in Tamil Nadu in the SE India. The place is known for its magnificent temples, shrines, and various historic monuments built between 7th and 9th century.

 

From Bangalore, we started the journey at six in the morning by car. The distance was close to 350 kilometers to Chennai or Madras (old name) then the next day a 60 kilometers journey to Mamallapuram.

 

Our main goal was actually to go to Chennai and the trip to Mamallapuram was an added bonus. We didn’t get the chance to roam and visit the rock-cut and monolithic architectures, which is the most important part while visiting Mamallapuram! But we did get the chance to meet a very talented sculptor.

 

It is believed that this place served as a school for young sculptors. And we were lucky to have met one. The lodge we stayed at was the owner and also a talented sculptor, Mr. Natesan. His works are displayed in his garden at Hotel Surya. Below are images of some of his works.   

 

Lord Shiva as Nataraja

Lord Shiva as Nataraja

 

A sculpture of the Hindu God Shiva “Auspicious God” as Nataraja, Nata meaning dance and raja meaning Lord. The dance represents creation and destruction. The image represents balance of the opposite world.

 

Buddha

Buddha

 

 

Other amazing sculptures in the garden.

 

sunsetinmycoffee

 

 

sunsetinmycoffee

 

 

Nataraja “The Cosmic Dancer”

Nataraja “The Cosmic Dancer”

 

Lord Krishna playing flute for Radha

Lord Krishna playing flute for Radha

 

Lord Krishna is the most popular incarnation of the Hindu God Vishnu, the protector and the restorer of moral order. And Radha was the incarnation of the Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity. When Krishna plays the flute, all the deer, cows and birds would be enchanted and just listen to Krishna’s divine music.

 

If you’re interested to see his other works, you’ll find it in his museum and I am sure he will proudly take you there to have a look at his most recent creations.

 

By accident on our way home we got the chance to see also the Marina Beach.  It was a nice day, blue sky and cool weather. We decided to pull over, rolled our pants and just wet our feet, sit on the sand and just feel the wind while listening to the waves.

 

Marina Beach

Marina Beach

 

 

 

marinabeach_waves_sunsetinmycoffee

 

Then on our way back to Bangalore, a snap of the beautiful Sunset on the Chennai-Bangalore Highway.

 

Sunset at Chennai-Bangalore Highway

Sunset at Chennai-Bangalore Highway

 

 

TIPS:

1.     If you’re driving from Bangalore-Chennai Highway, bring cash for toll fee. I think we paid 5 to 6 toll along the way, the road was good so it was worth it.

2.     If you’re driving by car, bring some water and snacks (of course) although you can have a stop over at Vellore like we did to order in for food.

 

 

 

  • Share/Bookmark
Post Comment

Sunset Crater Volcano, Flagstaff


2009
03.22

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Sunset Crater Volcano, Flagstaff | Post Comment »

 

The colorful cinder cones were formed by series of eruptions between 1040 and 1100. A final eruption made the originally black upper portion of the cone to dusky red-orange patches, giving its name.

Sunset Crater

Sunset Crater

 

 

 

Lava Flow Trail

Lava Flow Trail

 

Hiking is prohibited to the top of the crater because of its continued erosion, but the visitors can still explore the Lava Flow Trail, a self-guided loop walk through the hardened lava flows and cinder fields at the base of Sunset Crater.

 

Cloud above the Sunset Crater

Cloud above the Sunset Crater

 

 

Bonito Lava Flow

Bonito Lava Flow

 

 

The Bonito Lava Flow is a basaltic flow, which means the lava is jagged or sharp.

 

Close image of the hardened bonito lava flow

Close image of the hardened bonito lava flow

 

 

 

Splotches of greens and yellows on the surface

Splotches of greens and yellows on the surface

 

 

These splotches are actually lichen. Lichen are part fungus and part plant (an algae) living together to function as a single organism.

 

 

Partiallyrevegetated_sunsetinmycoffee

 

Amidst the hardened lava varieties of wildflower, shrubs and trees spout up.

 

 

scatteredpine-trees_sunsetinmycoffee

 

Ponderosa Pines on the slope.

 

The Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is now being maintained by the National Park Service.

 

Location: North of Flagstaff in US State of Arizona

Directions:

From Flagstaff, take U.S 89 north for 12 miles (19km), turn right on the Sunset Crater – Wupatki Loop road and continue 2 miles (3km) to the visitor center.
Hours Open:

November – April      9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST
May - October         8:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Open all year except Dec 25

Entrance Fee:

$5 per individual, valid for 7 days. Free for kids that is under 16.

For more info call the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument Visitor Center (928) 526-0502

 

 

 

 

  • Share/Bookmark
Post Comment

Het Steen, Antwerp


2009
03.20

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Het Steen, Antwerp | Post Comment »

 

 

Het Steen or The Stone is a medieval castle, built around the year of 1200, the oldest building in Antwerp. What you see today is just a small part of what it used to be. The castle used to control the access to the river Schelde and also served as a prison between 1303 and 1827 and became the museum of archeology in 1890 and in 1952 annex was added to house the National Maritime Museum. You’ll also find a war memorial to the Canadian soldiers in WWII.

 

 

Het Steen or The Stone

Het Steen or The Stone

 

 

Old Vessels

Old Vessels

The Maritime museum also displays several old vessels.

 

The Lange Wapper - Antwerp version of the Boogie man

The Lange Wapper - Antwerp version of the Boogie man

The giant in the entrance to the Steen Castle is Lange Wapper, a Flemish folklore legend. He is a mischievous shape shifter who can change from a small child to a giant. He terrified children, uses tricks to approach women to get their breast milk, and likes to leap at houses at night then peeps into houses to taunt his victim. Folklore has it that he especially dislikes drunkards.

 

 

 

 

  • Share/Bookmark
« Older Entries