tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39497643456419388222023-11-15T12:18:51.180-05:00Write(Right?)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-46805477935644623912013-06-23T16:47:00.000-04:002013-06-23T18:59:17.844-04:00A 16 course scrumptious lunch <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's Sid's B'day today and I decided to surprise him by taking him out for lunch to <a href="http://elevenmadisonpark.com/" target="_blank">Eleven Madison Park</a>. we have been wanting to go there for over a year and I finally managed to get reservations for lunch.<br />
<br />
It's a 16 course culinary journey which lasts over 3 hours. We were blown away not only by their scrumptious food but also their excellent service and very creative presentations. The anticipation and surprise element made the dining experience very unique. We had no idea on the number of courses being served or the menu. We only shared our food preference and they did an excellent job at creating these delicious and beautiful dishes. After courses 12, I was ready to quit, I had had my fill . Luckily the last few courses were cheese and small deserts. Overall this was the BEST meal i have ever had. Chef Daniel Humm has a winner in <a href="http://elevenmadisonpark.com/" target="_blank">Eleven Madison Park</a>.<br />
<br />
Here are some picture from yesterday:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I245VsCyUwU/UcdVGe-TRkI/AAAAAAAAP2I/2qsvFfUYuEM/s1600/IMG_8134web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I245VsCyUwU/UcdVGe-TRkI/AAAAAAAAP2I/2qsvFfUYuEM/s400/IMG_8134web.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a_z0MAVrR5Q/UcdVF4ikj0I/AAAAAAAAP18/dZrhlJVwrRQ/s1600/IMG_8136web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a_z0MAVrR5Q/UcdVF4ikj0I/AAAAAAAAP18/dZrhlJVwrRQ/s400/IMG_8136web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheddar - Savory Black & white Cookie with Apple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RFFIZtlhHg/UcdVFtBZklI/AAAAAAAAP14/gDOX4s2-Kz8/s1600/IMG_8137web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RFFIZtlhHg/UcdVFtBZklI/AAAAAAAAP14/gDOX4s2-Kz8/s400/IMG_8137web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Urchin - Snow with Smoked Cantaloupe & Conch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1M5tmD8Z0M/UcdVGd8lH7I/AAAAAAAAP2M/ikRG7v0FKMI/s1600/IMG_8140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="332" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1M5tmD8Z0M/UcdVGd8lH7I/AAAAAAAAP2M/ikRG7v0FKMI/s400/IMG_8140.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asparagus - Custard with Caviar & Rhubarb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-icZ1EWmDHXI/UcdVGtdf47I/AAAAAAAAP2Q/vko-WCqor3I/s1600/IMG_8144web.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-icZ1EWmDHXI/UcdVGtdf47I/AAAAAAAAP2Q/vko-WCqor3I/s400/IMG_8144web.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnU_9MYS9TU/UcdVIOHBiRI/AAAAAAAAP24/EQ4QOaNi0VU/s1600/IMG_8149web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KnU_9MYS9TU/UcdVIOHBiRI/AAAAAAAAP24/EQ4QOaNi0VU/s400/IMG_8149web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sturgeon - Sabayon with Chive oil Smoked with Everything Bagel Crumb, Pickles & Caviar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y1kyMfPtRw/UcdVHJTlLAI/AAAAAAAAP2c/8O_9G2HfaGY/s1600/IMG_8151web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y1kyMfPtRw/UcdVHJTlLAI/AAAAAAAAP2c/8O_9G2HfaGY/s400/IMG_8151web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Neck Clams</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t6vUCYd5nKM/UcdVHc5IIBI/AAAAAAAAP2k/tOXZY78LuZU/s1600/IMG_8152web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t6vUCYd5nKM/UcdVHc5IIBI/AAAAAAAAP2k/tOXZY78LuZU/s400/IMG_8152web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hvrZPmYUwQ/UcdVHnKZACI/AAAAAAAAP2w/SjObH5BzXqc/s1600/IMG_8153web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0hvrZPmYUwQ/UcdVHnKZACI/AAAAAAAAP2w/SjObH5BzXqc/s400/IMG_8153web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couscous</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0foM48_mM0c/UcdVHxiGszI/AAAAAAAAP20/cuYL1PTVFDE/s1600/IMG_8155web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0foM48_mM0c/UcdVHxiGszI/AAAAAAAAP20/cuYL1PTVFDE/s400/IMG_8155web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clam Chowder</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HHS8iNA_xjk/UcdVITSSh8I/AAAAAAAAP28/a1Sup3qk5WE/s1600/IMG_8158web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HHS8iNA_xjk/UcdVITSSh8I/AAAAAAAAP28/a1Sup3qk5WE/s400/IMG_8158web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter & Lamb Butter </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iWvDnMqhznw/UcdVIlrqkdI/AAAAAAAAP3M/VHcVhzOBvkE/s1600/IMG_8161web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iWvDnMqhznw/UcdVIlrqkdI/AAAAAAAAP3M/VHcVhzOBvkE/s400/IMG_8161web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0xjbZLqWEc4/UcdVKbV1bGI/AAAAAAAAP34/Ti84bJKsASU/s1600/IMG_8167web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0xjbZLqWEc4/UcdVKbV1bGI/AAAAAAAAP34/Ti84bJKsASU/s400/IMG_8167web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asparagus - Salad with Bitter Almond & Buttermilk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CM6OlRUGsak/UcdVIymK7TI/AAAAAAAAP3U/CFvLAAfZKDE/s1600/IMG_8173web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CM6OlRUGsak/UcdVIymK7TI/AAAAAAAAP3U/CFvLAAfZKDE/s400/IMG_8173web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shredding the Carrot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ja-VvPRx1HE/UcdVJWr1qYI/AAAAAAAAP3c/D-e_l-xhc0E/s1600/IMG_8178web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ja-VvPRx1HE/UcdVJWr1qYI/AAAAAAAAP3c/D-e_l-xhc0E/s400/IMG_8178web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrot - Tartare with Rye Bread & Condiments</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NDAwoT0Kg5I/UcdVJoIQ05I/AAAAAAAAP3k/Qxe_KiTiTt8/s1600/IMG_8180web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NDAwoT0Kg5I/UcdVJoIQ05I/AAAAAAAAP3k/Qxe_KiTiTt8/s400/IMG_8180web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrot - Tartare with Rye Bread & Condiments</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMl7Alpx7pQ/UcdVKMqzw2I/AAAAAAAAP3w/-0Fiqpc2XMo/s1600/IMG_8189web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMl7Alpx7pQ/UcdVKMqzw2I/AAAAAAAAP3w/-0Fiqpc2XMo/s400/IMG_8189web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lobster - Poached with Snap Peas & Morels </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nRlrIroT-GA/UcdVKeEMCdI/AAAAAAAAP30/JA7YpSX7Daw/s1600/IMG_8203web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nRlrIroT-GA/UcdVKeEMCdI/AAAAAAAAP30/JA7YpSX7Daw/s400/IMG_8203web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nettles - Creamed with Fingerling Potato & Goat Cheese</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RlXF1Llr-ho/UcdVLMuVKWI/AAAAAAAAP4M/Yg-ctTy-axQ/s1600/IMG_8212web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RlXF1Llr-ho/UcdVLMuVKWI/AAAAAAAAP4M/Yg-ctTy-axQ/s400/IMG_8212web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F0sauOeuebg/UcdVK9pSjXI/AAAAAAAAP4E/xPBNTTk-x1A/s1600/IMG_8206web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F0sauOeuebg/UcdVK9pSjXI/AAAAAAAAP4E/xPBNTTk-x1A/s400/IMG_8206web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb - Crisped with Leek, Bibb Lettuce & Meyer Lemon Roasted with Freekeh, Mint & Leek</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uNp86lNejAM/UcdVMRH832I/AAAAAAAAP4s/mQKdw1aAsDU/s1600/IMG_8219web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uNp86lNejAM/UcdVMRH832I/AAAAAAAAP4s/mQKdw1aAsDU/s400/IMG_8219web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening the Mystery Picnic Basket - Pretzel, Mustard & Pickled Stawberries</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9N6IMRJtJpM/UcdVLaanifI/AAAAAAAAP4U/7d3ySJynaRU/s1600/IMG_8226web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9N6IMRJtJpM/UcdVLaanifI/AAAAAAAAP4U/7d3ySJynaRU/s400/IMG_8226web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Preparing the Malt </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MVrcAovzKpg/UcdVL4ZErbI/AAAAAAAAP4c/CyvPa4qSOME/s1600/IMG_8230web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MVrcAovzKpg/UcdVL4ZErbI/AAAAAAAAP4c/CyvPa4qSOME/s400/IMG_8230web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malt - Egg Cream, Vanilla & Seltzer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cA-JMirwM1A/UcdVMUdZOfI/AAAAAAAAP4o/9yl6Zb12Yqw/s1600/IMG_8232web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cA-JMirwM1A/UcdVMUdZOfI/AAAAAAAAP4o/9yl6Zb12Yqw/s400/IMG_8232web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A very happy and satisfied B'day boy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8LB32b7HBgI/UcdVMs-Ru7I/AAAAAAAAP4w/1iqXYA17Yk8/s1600/IMG_8242web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8LB32b7HBgI/UcdVMs-Ru7I/AAAAAAAAP4w/1iqXYA17Yk8/s400/IMG_8242web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mint - Sorbet with Chocolate Ganache</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-2NtkYTGYA/UcdVMz6UB0I/AAAAAAAAP44/yRzyxgCE1_s/s1600/IMG_8244web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-2NtkYTGYA/UcdVMz6UB0I/AAAAAAAAP44/yRzyxgCE1_s/s400/IMG_8244web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheep's Milk - Cheesecake with Mango & Peanut</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5h8eymE1pL8/UcdVNVGnbJI/AAAAAAAAP5I/gJOew_EcRj0/s1600/IMG_8250web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5h8eymE1pL8/UcdVNVGnbJI/AAAAAAAAP5I/gJOew_EcRj0/s400/IMG_8250web.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate - Popcorn Flavored</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZ0OtCHE_ho/UcdVNeOsc2I/AAAAAAAAP5M/E1KxfOMIIeo/s1600/IMG_8252web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZ0OtCHE_ho/UcdVNeOsc2I/AAAAAAAAP5M/E1KxfOMIIeo/s400/IMG_8252web.jpg" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretzel - Chocolate covered with Sea Salt </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-59296534084534087422013-06-01T18:07:00.003-04:002013-06-01T18:07:34.741-04:00A Rainy Day in the City<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Last week was a rainy, wet and gloomy week. It rained like cats and dogs. I usually like to bundle up, grab a good book and drink hot chai when it's not bright and sunny but this time it was different.<br />
<br />
One evening, after work I decided to capture some pictures in the rain. I put on my trench coat and headed out on the streets of NYC. The streets were a bit chaotic, people were rushing home and the rain kept pouring. Initially, I started out by clicking and running from one shelter to the next but that did not work, atleast for my photographs it didn't. So I finally settled under a covered spot (thanks to constructions in NYC) at the corner of two intersecting roads, crosswalks on either side and that was the perfect spot. I clicked and clicked for the next 90 minutes. It was fun, real fun, watching people scurry and run for shelter. Some looked harassed by the rain, others just kept walking. People chatted, laughed, shared stories and grumbled. I was particularly attracted to all the colorful and unique umbrellas, they stood out to me that evening. It was like they were enjoying all the attention. The minutes just rolled by.... Here are some pictures, I hope you will like them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HOi7Vvstux4/UaptfB9o8JI/AAAAAAAAPtE/aLmz24-2UYY/s1600/IMG_6133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HOi7Vvstux4/UaptfB9o8JI/AAAAAAAAPtE/aLmz24-2UYY/s640/IMG_6133.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fRBxiA_DdA4/Uaptgn4dFBI/AAAAAAAAPtQ/TRb7-TJzRss/s1600/IMG_6176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fRBxiA_DdA4/Uaptgn4dFBI/AAAAAAAAPtQ/TRb7-TJzRss/s640/IMG_6176.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZC33RBV39s/UaptfwQix6I/AAAAAAAAPtI/bJao1vaE1Zk/s1600/IMG_6202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZC33RBV39s/UaptfwQix6I/AAAAAAAAPtI/bJao1vaE1Zk/s640/IMG_6202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8wd9dtMSxN8/UaptjKFOCoI/AAAAAAAAPto/s3UPwcyMIY4/s1600/IMG_6220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8wd9dtMSxN8/UaptjKFOCoI/AAAAAAAAPto/s3UPwcyMIY4/s640/IMG_6220.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WHLr-FA-dJE/Uapthq-9AEI/AAAAAAAAPtc/QatWSV5Nc9w/s1600/IMG_6245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WHLr-FA-dJE/Uapthq-9AEI/AAAAAAAAPtc/QatWSV5Nc9w/s640/IMG_6245.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-81_Kd7d60oY/UaptjCgxRVI/AAAAAAAAPts/pC1zRaTDDmw/s1600/IMG_6277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-81_Kd7d60oY/UaptjCgxRVI/AAAAAAAAPts/pC1zRaTDDmw/s640/IMG_6277.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EE64JWXXwok/UaptkL0tVYI/AAAAAAAAPt8/_omdAdgjkck/s1600/IMG_6285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EE64JWXXwok/UaptkL0tVYI/AAAAAAAAPt8/_omdAdgjkck/s640/IMG_6285.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-88436124354885068232013-05-10T14:38:00.001-04:002013-05-10T14:39:20.812-04:00Arms and Armor<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I recently visited <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/" target="_blank">The Metropolitan Museum of Art</a> (MET) in NYC. I loved the museum and was amazed at the different collections. Now I am not an arms and armor person and usually I avoid this section but the one on display at the MET took my breath away. It's a beautiful modern collection focussing on excellent design and decoration rather than just pure military and technical use. Each piece has such fine details that it was hard not to stand and admire the excellent artistry.<br />
<br />
The elaborately decorated Greenwich armors were from the English Royal workshops founded by King Hentry VIII. It houses one of Henry's personal armors which was made in Italy and was worn by the king in his last campaign against the French at Calais in 1544.<br />
<br />
Some pictures from the collection:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLVpb7AAwkE/UY08mXGlX7I/AAAAAAAAPqE/ly7G-cpO8XQ/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLVpb7AAwkE/UY08mXGlX7I/AAAAAAAAPqE/ly7G-cpO8XQ/s640/14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PDjP5UsBqh4/UY08mzZ3vYI/AAAAAAAAPqM/CtmHoNXuCWA/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PDjP5UsBqh4/UY08mzZ3vYI/AAAAAAAAPqM/CtmHoNXuCWA/s640/16.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wu3FmoE-5pE/UY08nG4SSaI/AAAAAAAAPqU/M-lmt-3qTKs/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wu3FmoE-5pE/UY08nG4SSaI/AAAAAAAAPqU/M-lmt-3qTKs/s640/17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4oL0W9WgnQA/UY08nvuiQ6I/AAAAAAAAPqY/EluT9pN2ldA/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4oL0W9WgnQA/UY08nvuiQ6I/AAAAAAAAPqY/EluT9pN2ldA/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XZfYF9mDPHk/UY08nyYjuLI/AAAAAAAAPqg/M8VLlO3JZfg/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XZfYF9mDPHk/UY08nyYjuLI/AAAAAAAAPqg/M8VLlO3JZfg/s640/20.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlwpFTJjpTg/UY08oiN3mvI/AAAAAAAAPqs/ofHow4KcRjc/s1600/IMG_3475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="564" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nlwpFTJjpTg/UY08oiN3mvI/AAAAAAAAPqs/ofHow4KcRjc/s640/IMG_3475.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SHZf1OsKCI4/UY08oz3d-gI/AAAAAAAAPq0/Calq0cuGGV0/s1600/IMG_3478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SHZf1OsKCI4/UY08oz3d-gI/AAAAAAAAPq0/Calq0cuGGV0/s640/IMG_3478.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--m4SdRFxLEY/UY08pPq09-I/AAAAAAAAPq4/osrPBD0VDhg/s1600/IMG_3484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--m4SdRFxLEY/UY08pPq09-I/AAAAAAAAPq4/osrPBD0VDhg/s640/IMG_3484.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BeeGNmE3YOs/UY08piLdVEI/AAAAAAAAPrE/z3rldv-k4F4/s1600/IMG_3489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BeeGNmE3YOs/UY08piLdVEI/AAAAAAAAPrE/z3rldv-k4F4/s640/IMG_3489.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v3kf_s4XZlM/UY08qK4CUjI/AAAAAAAAPrM/BXZkYPYmM_M/s1600/IMG_3493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v3kf_s4XZlM/UY08qK4CUjI/AAAAAAAAPrM/BXZkYPYmM_M/s640/IMG_3493.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-6887982974045023282013-05-02T22:48:00.001-04:002013-05-10T21:30:19.705-04:00My first gallery show ever - Abstracts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
April 30th, 2013 - a date I will always remember. I had my first gallery show in the city of NY and it was spectacular!! I was super excited, had worked very hard and was in love with my pictures. The best part everyone else loved it too.<br />
<br />
I present to you the abstract series. The pictures from this series are vibrant, colorful and oh so creative!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iKhgsAJifrc/UYMjzLdN_oI/AAAAAAAAPoY/zqNf_nkO-Rk/s1600/Image10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iKhgsAJifrc/UYMjzLdN_oI/AAAAAAAAPoY/zqNf_nkO-Rk/s640/Image10.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HA7st4Y0lbI/UYMjw74kSYI/AAAAAAAAPnk/WymXU7Qw8M0/s1600/Image2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HA7st4Y0lbI/UYMjw74kSYI/AAAAAAAAPnk/WymXU7Qw8M0/s640/Image2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2h9A0cxU0uE/UYMjx3pp21I/AAAAAAAAPnw/SREXJZ4QsfY/s1600/Image3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2h9A0cxU0uE/UYMjx3pp21I/AAAAAAAAPnw/SREXJZ4QsfY/s640/Image3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBzahGcHkzM/UYMjybYAb8I/AAAAAAAAPn8/_3NVnrOTfZE/s1600/Image4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBzahGcHkzM/UYMjybYAb8I/AAAAAAAAPn8/_3NVnrOTfZE/s640/Image4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n5cPUfPN1QY/UYMjyYuvXnI/AAAAAAAAPoA/LyKPOMLaf9w/s1600/Image5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n5cPUfPN1QY/UYMjyYuvXnI/AAAAAAAAPoA/LyKPOMLaf9w/s640/Image5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LiWmY93XoL4/UYMjy5IlzjI/AAAAAAAAPoM/59_VcEF3UM0/s1600/Image6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LiWmY93XoL4/UYMjy5IlzjI/AAAAAAAAPoM/59_VcEF3UM0/s640/Image6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5eXEEEd4wA/UYMjy4Ez_KI/AAAAAAAAPoQ/h70NDcarikE/s1600/Image7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5eXEEEd4wA/UYMjy4Ez_KI/AAAAAAAAPoQ/h70NDcarikE/s640/Image7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIm0i55haM8/UYMjzggQ00I/AAAAAAAAPok/DiGXGQvkP8A/s1600/Image8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lIm0i55haM8/UYMjzggQ00I/AAAAAAAAPok/DiGXGQvkP8A/s640/Image8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvPo3B5-Qhs/UYMj0-ltP-I/AAAAAAAAPos/X7rHSrLQ8XM/s1600/Image9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvPo3B5-Qhs/UYMj0-ltP-I/AAAAAAAAPos/X7rHSrLQ8XM/s640/Image9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBu63nIMBfc/UYMjwH2URzI/AAAAAAAAPnc/ITFRFXXDlCI/s1600/Image1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wBu63nIMBfc/UYMjwH2URzI/AAAAAAAAPnc/ITFRFXXDlCI/s640/Image1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
© 2013 Shruti Kapoor, All rights reserved </div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-49211382097337468262013-04-16T12:01:00.002-04:002013-05-10T21:28:26.166-04:00Washington Square Park <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;">One of my favorite spots in the city is the Washington Square Park. It's close to some scrumptious eating spots and there is always so much going on in the park. Last week, I spent an hour in the park capturing people and moments. It was such a fun experience. Let me know what you think of the pictures.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>People</b>: </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-amem5IEiNAQ/UW1x3lDDPjI/AAAAAAAAPGg/PVf5TKxn4ZA/s1600/IMG_4159-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-amem5IEiNAQ/UW1x3lDDPjI/AAAAAAAAPGg/PVf5TKxn4ZA/s640/IMG_4159-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuuQ1MGv6Ts/UW1x3ExnYyI/AAAAAAAAPGU/Rl2AiOUMWMU/s1600/IMG_4175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CuuQ1MGv6Ts/UW1x3ExnYyI/AAAAAAAAPGU/Rl2AiOUMWMU/s640/IMG_4175.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHxjYSwpasw/UW1yABxt82I/AAAAAAAAPHU/8urDF19c7_A/s1600/IMG_4232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wHxjYSwpasw/UW1yABxt82I/AAAAAAAAPHU/8urDF19c7_A/s640/IMG_4232.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JzUnwEN6lLY/UW1x8kDtg4I/AAAAAAAAPHA/3BG-zjomtfU/s1600/IMG_4208-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JzUnwEN6lLY/UW1x8kDtg4I/AAAAAAAAPHA/3BG-zjomtfU/s640/IMG_4208-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--5Q2d1R5huY/UW1x7zAvebI/AAAAAAAAPG8/cgt_jbkFjSg/s1600/IMG_4211-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--5Q2d1R5huY/UW1x7zAvebI/AAAAAAAAPG8/cgt_jbkFjSg/s640/IMG_4211-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkNwlX6Xmec/UW1yCzdILMI/AAAAAAAAPHs/3gr0iEKfiVc/s1600/IMG_4240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="386" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkNwlX6Xmec/UW1yCzdILMI/AAAAAAAAPHs/3gr0iEKfiVc/s640/IMG_4240.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KcO5AUBxX1s/UW1x7Rso3rI/AAAAAAAAPG0/xGwGFq54lBc/s1600/IMG_4213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KcO5AUBxX1s/UW1x7Rso3rI/AAAAAAAAPG0/xGwGFq54lBc/s640/IMG_4213.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak1V-NEWRbM/UW1yA8Hd9dI/AAAAAAAAPHc/JBKeHAagrRc/s1600/IMG_4234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ak1V-NEWRbM/UW1yA8Hd9dI/AAAAAAAAPHc/JBKeHAagrRc/s640/IMG_4234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wyendqHgZI/UW1yBkiVp1I/AAAAAAAAPHk/cBTh--YkIMs/s1600/IMG_4237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wyendqHgZI/UW1yBkiVp1I/AAAAAAAAPHk/cBTh--YkIMs/s640/IMG_4237.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xONmPhYmZM0/UW1x3Zf1U1I/AAAAAAAAPGY/eOKZ6QRWjDk/s1600/IMG_4140-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xONmPhYmZM0/UW1x3Zf1U1I/AAAAAAAAPGY/eOKZ6QRWjDk/s640/IMG_4140-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Others:</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPE5HlK8NQo/UW1x5Fdl1JI/AAAAAAAAPGs/ldQ7iDtvHlw/s1600/IMG_4193-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yPE5HlK8NQo/UW1x5Fdl1JI/AAAAAAAAPGs/ldQ7iDtvHlw/s640/IMG_4193-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UE87p0uhwUw/UW1x_b6vcVI/AAAAAAAAPHM/xQfUltgSt_U/s1600/IMG_4223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UE87p0uhwUw/UW1x_b6vcVI/AAAAAAAAPHM/xQfUltgSt_U/s640/IMG_4223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A87KUhlnDNY/UW1x0-xGnEI/AAAAAAAAPGM/dBtlmN6DHds/s1600/IMG_4122-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A87KUhlnDNY/UW1x0-xGnEI/AAAAAAAAPGM/dBtlmN6DHds/s640/IMG_4122-2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k84rBmxQefk/UW1zuVlrlbI/AAAAAAAAPH0/kFiLQZ1loqQ/s1600/IMG_4200-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k84rBmxQefk/UW1zuVlrlbI/AAAAAAAAPH0/kFiLQZ1loqQ/s640/IMG_4200-2.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyg_aOvd0v4/UW1zvVZSqaI/AAAAAAAAPH8/YB3ROJEgChA/s1600/IMG_4212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jyg_aOvd0v4/UW1zvVZSqaI/AAAAAAAAPH8/YB3ROJEgChA/s640/IMG_4212.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span id="goog_1216092288"></span><span id="goog_1216092289"></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-40408513737441936832013-03-21T16:38:00.004-04:002013-05-10T21:29:14.841-04:00Exploring the city <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
These days I like to walk around with my camera. New York city is a photographer's paradise. Here are some of my recent shots. Hope you like them!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o9Wj9eLhIsY/UUtucKjTFyI/AAAAAAAAPC0/2vOn0BpJzCo/s1600/IMG_3003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o9Wj9eLhIsY/UUtucKjTFyI/AAAAAAAAPC0/2vOn0BpJzCo/s640/IMG_3003.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Cd0a8rjUJ8/UUtucV5ER9I/AAAAAAAAPC4/wlZR29YJiL0/s1600/IMG_3043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Cd0a8rjUJ8/UUtucV5ER9I/AAAAAAAAPC4/wlZR29YJiL0/s640/IMG_3043.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PAgQNzfjSQ/UUtucJJFTJI/AAAAAAAAPC8/FrAYY-1sYbY/s1600/IMG_3030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PAgQNzfjSQ/UUtucJJFTJI/AAAAAAAAPC8/FrAYY-1sYbY/s640/IMG_3030.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vp_uBx-1b-I/UUtudLTjihI/AAAAAAAAPDM/Gl6OzFfdAis/s1600/IMG_3053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vp_uBx-1b-I/UUtudLTjihI/AAAAAAAAPDM/Gl6OzFfdAis/s640/IMG_3053.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjI9Hw2hjf8/UUtufk-e-OI/AAAAAAAAPDc/ic4dAJeT_ro/s1600/IMG_3054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjI9Hw2hjf8/UUtufk-e-OI/AAAAAAAAPDc/ic4dAJeT_ro/s640/IMG_3054.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWo1fjt8on4/UUtuh0I8iXI/AAAAAAAAPDk/Jjuc4xQsR1Y/s1600/IMG_3098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWo1fjt8on4/UUtuh0I8iXI/AAAAAAAAPDk/Jjuc4xQsR1Y/s640/IMG_3098.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H5s3DuuHH30/UUtu5JwEouI/AAAAAAAAPD0/fF2J0L_ej0g/s1600/IMG_3065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H5s3DuuHH30/UUtu5JwEouI/AAAAAAAAPD0/fF2J0L_ej0g/s640/IMG_3065.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nsATN0TqgbA/UUtySCiEnmI/AAAAAAAAPEE/UuUQUo0yTQc/s1600/IMG_3097_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nsATN0TqgbA/UUtySCiEnmI/AAAAAAAAPEE/UuUQUo0yTQc/s640/IMG_3097_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-81798042682696740862013-02-19T14:04:00.000-05:002013-02-19T14:05:30.997-05:00Central Park, NYC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my favorite spots in New York Cit (NYC) is the Central Park. Apparently it's the most visited urban park in United States. If you are visiting NYC, it's a must see/do. Luckily for me, my mom was visiting from India and so the day after the big snow storm I decided to take her to Central Park. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now I must admit that I hate snow storms and had it not been for my mom I would have never dreamt of stepping out of my house. But I am so glad I did because when I saw that Park all covered in snow, it were the most beautiful moments. The snow covered trees looked gorgeous. The pure white snow sparkled in the bright golden sunlight and I felt, I was in wonderland. Here are some pictures I clicked while freezing in the cold :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zxTZrJ-vIkc/USPKkOQ9rtI/AAAAAAAAO-E/vGbi1T9KUL0/s1600/IMG_2302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zxTZrJ-vIkc/USPKkOQ9rtI/AAAAAAAAO-E/vGbi1T9KUL0/s640/IMG_2302.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oPR-okRtstQ/USPKvNmca8I/AAAAAAAAO-M/R6mg5VKegEA/s1600/IMG_2309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oPR-okRtstQ/USPKvNmca8I/AAAAAAAAO-M/R6mg5VKegEA/s640/IMG_2309.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfGvIJmbQUk/USPK5CVu_fI/AAAAAAAAO-U/bsaoSdnV78Y/s1600/IMG_2310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfGvIJmbQUk/USPK5CVu_fI/AAAAAAAAO-U/bsaoSdnV78Y/s640/IMG_2310.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom & Sid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AnLsn29GF7U/USPLDS21uYI/AAAAAAAAO-c/3ZJ8HL2VHnw/s1600/IMG_2316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AnLsn29GF7U/USPLDS21uYI/AAAAAAAAO-c/3ZJ8HL2VHnw/s640/IMG_2316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XBzur8xwe7w/USPLO2jAW_I/AAAAAAAAO-k/EfdF5RR_Fbo/s1600/IMG_2320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XBzur8xwe7w/USPLO2jAW_I/AAAAAAAAO-k/EfdF5RR_Fbo/s640/IMG_2320.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-70ADJiwuevs/USPLauB5cmI/AAAAAAAAO-s/pvi3bHAuGkI/s1600/IMG_2323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-70ADJiwuevs/USPLauB5cmI/AAAAAAAAO-s/pvi3bHAuGkI/s640/IMG_2323.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFpiA2dswDk/USPLyz4zzJI/AAAAAAAAO-0/ptnN7JwHBKs/s1600/IMG_2328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFpiA2dswDk/USPLyz4zzJI/AAAAAAAAO-0/ptnN7JwHBKs/s640/IMG_2328.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2Lpde3OntE/USPLzdW8GaI/AAAAAAAAO-8/-loM5F1fizc/s1600/IMG_2335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W2Lpde3OntE/USPLzdW8GaI/AAAAAAAAO-8/-loM5F1fizc/s640/IMG_2335.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hBwCDVjWxk/USPL1tOx_4I/AAAAAAAAO_E/1hH1LJAsbJQ/s1600/IMG_2341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4hBwCDVjWxk/USPL1tOx_4I/AAAAAAAAO_E/1hH1LJAsbJQ/s640/IMG_2341.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8g8CmY1mF7Y/USPL168-h8I/AAAAAAAAO_I/dXb6UiY-LNo/s1600/IMG_2364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8g8CmY1mF7Y/USPL168-h8I/AAAAAAAAO_I/dXb6UiY-LNo/s640/IMG_2364.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hyqz_0grkOw/USPL5VPzOyI/AAAAAAAAO_c/_fhB9yu9_iE/s1600/IMG_2367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hyqz_0grkOw/USPL5VPzOyI/AAAAAAAAO_c/_fhB9yu9_iE/s640/IMG_2367.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtTOwj5XewY/USPL5pG-68I/AAAAAAAAO_g/pUoQBAtNUeY/s1600/IMG_2390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtTOwj5XewY/USPL5pG-68I/AAAAAAAAO_g/pUoQBAtNUeY/s640/IMG_2390.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHgEb0Otar4/USPL6IgLiGI/AAAAAAAAO_o/VFIMlxzehnM/s1600/IMG_2374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHgEb0Otar4/USPL6IgLiGI/AAAAAAAAO_o/VFIMlxzehnM/s640/IMG_2374.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h9ErDxPL8m8/USPL6ocg4vI/AAAAAAAAO_0/QJEVc0iVVFc/s1600/IMG_2409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="484" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h9ErDxPL8m8/USPL6ocg4vI/AAAAAAAAO_0/QJEVc0iVVFc/s640/IMG_2409.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple Store near Central Park </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-74627482097421827322013-02-05T14:13:00.000-05:002013-02-05T23:18:49.216-05:00Black & White <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I recently came across this picture (on the internet) which left me speechless! Photographer <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarcinRyczekFotografia" target="_blank">Marcin Ryczek</a> snapped this once in a lifetime image of a man feeding swans on a snowy river bank of Poland. What's beautiful about this picture is the juxtaposition of black/white, snow/water, man/animals. I absolutely love this photo and the fact it's not photoshopped is so very inspiring.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9R0AcH0p3Qk/URFYQyldxNI/AAAAAAAAOv4/5zfpYdSOO1k/s1600/manfeedingswans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9R0AcH0p3Qk/URFYQyldxNI/AAAAAAAAOv4/5zfpYdSOO1k/s640/manfeedingswans.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
To download a desktop version of this photo, click <a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/287299_563556910323351_1872533864_o.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-61983050862016583652013-01-23T11:37:00.001-05:002013-01-23T11:37:27.102-05:00Monterey Bay Aquarium <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There is something about bright colored fishes that makes me very happy. One of the best aquariums I have ever visited is the <a href="http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/">Monterey Bay Aquarium</a> in Monterey. Located on the <a href="http://www.canneryrow.com/">Cannery Row</a> of the Pacific Ocean shoreline in Monterey CA, this place attracts 1.8 million visitors every year. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I thoroughly enjoyed seeing exotic fishes of various shapes and sizes. They were beautiful and so special. Some were calm and floating around, others agitated, excited, aggressive and hostile. It was interesting to take a peek into their fishy world. My favorite section in the aquarium was the special <a href="http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/efc/efc_jellies/exhibit.aspx" target="_blank">jelly fish exhibition</a>. I was absolutely awestruck by their beauty and exotic types. Each one was unique and so delicate. Floating around in the clear blue water, the orange jelly fishes took my breath away. It's definitely an exhibition worth seeing, don't miss it! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some of my favorite pictures from our visit, hope you like them: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5QB_2vg8zWE/UP3qJnymv4I/AAAAAAAAOlY/F9TfeX5bAj4/s1600/DSC_0586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5QB_2vg8zWE/UP3qJnymv4I/AAAAAAAAOlY/F9TfeX5bAj4/s640/DSC_0586.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rGkP1Le8jZA/UP3qJ0ehlOI/AAAAAAAAOlc/IRXSuNRSnD0/s1600/DSC_0601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rGkP1Le8jZA/UP3qJ0ehlOI/AAAAAAAAOlc/IRXSuNRSnD0/s640/DSC_0601.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nsEaffPgBzQ/UP3qKg-JWKI/AAAAAAAAOlw/uppV453R0SE/s1600/DSC_0615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nsEaffPgBzQ/UP3qKg-JWKI/AAAAAAAAOlw/uppV453R0SE/s640/DSC_0615.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oKYrzoTT_iM/UP3qK_1lwgI/AAAAAAAAOl0/p6THYvZMmws/s1600/DSC_0620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oKYrzoTT_iM/UP3qK_1lwgI/AAAAAAAAOl0/p6THYvZMmws/s640/DSC_0620.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAhDF6h7EoE/UP3qLoVTNnI/AAAAAAAAOmM/HmSSLB0PDJM/s1600/DSC_0622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAhDF6h7EoE/UP3qLoVTNnI/AAAAAAAAOmM/HmSSLB0PDJM/s640/DSC_0622.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gXbSLZlkvuE/UP3qL8tVV9I/AAAAAAAAOmQ/sc68ukW1e2w/s1600/DSC_0652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gXbSLZlkvuE/UP3qL8tVV9I/AAAAAAAAOmQ/sc68ukW1e2w/s640/DSC_0652.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EmILQX2jyVE/UP3qMN57UwI/AAAAAAAAOmU/gkOKW2rPLck/s1600/DSC_0656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EmILQX2jyVE/UP3qMN57UwI/AAAAAAAAOmU/gkOKW2rPLck/s640/DSC_0656.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAZ6KU7GS4Y/UP3qMo6v0VI/AAAAAAAAOmg/rZcjQcCmTGI/s1600/DSC_0661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAZ6KU7GS4Y/UP3qMo6v0VI/AAAAAAAAOmg/rZcjQcCmTGI/s640/DSC_0661.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yInjH86kSY/UP3qMgZrsII/AAAAAAAAOmo/LogWURIyvjg/s1600/DSC_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yInjH86kSY/UP3qMgZrsII/AAAAAAAAOmo/LogWURIyvjg/s640/DSC_0659.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-OohcpZgWo/UP3qNDFKTFI/AAAAAAAAOmw/wWEOswKs4kw/s1600/DSC_0664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s-OohcpZgWo/UP3qNDFKTFI/AAAAAAAAOmw/wWEOswKs4kw/s640/DSC_0664.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moon Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NmPuacd_SPI/UP3qNIbHmhI/AAAAAAAAOm4/emODvdMR5Ic/s1600/DSC_0667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NmPuacd_SPI/UP3qNIbHmhI/AAAAAAAAOm4/emODvdMR5Ic/s640/DSC_0667.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moon Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJIHjfFgIQ8/UP3qOLU9VnI/AAAAAAAAOnQ/wofpddT7U3A/s1600/DSC_0677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lJIHjfFgIQ8/UP3qOLU9VnI/AAAAAAAAOnQ/wofpddT7U3A/s640/DSC_0677.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moon Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsX4ErDpndQ/UP3qO0AE0OI/AAAAAAAAOns/Lz7jhpYB4ZQ/s1600/DSC_0683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsX4ErDpndQ/UP3qO0AE0OI/AAAAAAAAOns/Lz7jhpYB4ZQ/s640/DSC_0683.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg yolk Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkbcpW01qwg/UP3qPF270wI/AAAAAAAAOnw/p43esZ9EBE0/s1600/DSC_0685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkbcpW01qwg/UP3qPF270wI/AAAAAAAAOnw/p43esZ9EBE0/s640/DSC_0685.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg Yolk Jelly </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4ruDH8Cr7w/UP3qPjFO4TI/AAAAAAAAOoA/MahpIoooKng/s1600/DSC_0695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4ruDH8Cr7w/UP3qPjFO4TI/AAAAAAAAOoA/MahpIoooKng/s640/DSC_0695.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg Yolk Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VtRzTiR_4lM/UP3qQ_IjOWI/AAAAAAAAOok/kJnc4BLDz-U/s1600/DSC_0710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VtRzTiR_4lM/UP3qQ_IjOWI/AAAAAAAAOok/kJnc4BLDz-U/s640/DSC_0710.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hQS6WIIclbs/UP3qSBq6RkI/AAAAAAAAOpU/x_r-bN9v4CI/s1600/DSC_0716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hQS6WIIclbs/UP3qSBq6RkI/AAAAAAAAOpU/x_r-bN9v4CI/s640/DSC_0716.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhC7cMch_ak/UP3qSyS9abI/AAAAAAAAOpg/4xG_26KPtkY/s1600/DSC_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhC7cMch_ak/UP3qSyS9abI/AAAAAAAAOpg/4xG_26KPtkY/s640/DSC_0722.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S3yBHsEigsU/UP3qTqI6haI/AAAAAAAAOp4/2NEfq3eb7vc/s1600/DSC_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S3yBHsEigsU/UP3qTqI6haI/AAAAAAAAOp4/2NEfq3eb7vc/s640/DSC_0727.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jellies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y7RA_-YK9uI/UP3qT_ePmOI/AAAAAAAAOqI/eCoQwEId-rU/s1600/DSC_0728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y7RA_-YK9uI/UP3qT_ePmOI/AAAAAAAAOqI/eCoQwEId-rU/s640/DSC_0728.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jellies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SotO5F-W8qU/UP3qV9O1TUI/AAAAAAAAOrA/z5EETOdbmsc/s1600/DSC_0737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SotO5F-W8qU/UP3qV9O1TUI/AAAAAAAAOrA/z5EETOdbmsc/s640/DSC_0737.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jellies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_m1rqTd3gs/UP3qWepIYmI/AAAAAAAAOrE/qcJDTaR65TE/s1600/DSC_0743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_m1rqTd3gs/UP3qWepIYmI/AAAAAAAAOrE/qcJDTaR65TE/s640/DSC_0743.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eEgCSYH1BLs/UP3qWidChLI/AAAAAAAAOrU/-mKSI1quBI0/s1600/DSC_0744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eEgCSYH1BLs/UP3qWidChLI/AAAAAAAAOrU/-mKSI1quBI0/s640/DSC_0744.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Y9qe0sLoc/UP3qXAD9l1I/AAAAAAAAOrk/lXwfvplc5VE/s1600/DSC_0752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Y9qe0sLoc/UP3qXAD9l1I/AAAAAAAAOrk/lXwfvplc5VE/s640/DSC_0752.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crystal Jelly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-28866628027143045372013-01-21T14:34:00.000-05:002013-01-21T15:45:13.494-05:00Mohonk Mountain House <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Siddharth and I decided to take a day trip to the <a href="http://www.mohonk.com/" target="_blank">Mohonk Mountain House</a> this long weekend. It's 90 miles north of New York city and perfect for a weekend getaway or just a day trip.<br />
<br />
The Mohonk Mountain House is a beautiful Victorian castle built on cliffs above the lake Mohonk. Perched on top of a cliff, this resort offers spectacular views, <a href="http://www.mohonk.com/Accommodations/Rooms" target="_blank">charming rooms</a>, <a href="http://www.mohonk.com/Spa-Fitness/Spa-Services" target="_blank">excellent spa services</a> and various <a href="http://www.mohonk.com/Activities" target="_blank">activities</a> for everyone. It's a place to truly relax and getaway from the craziness of the city. The best part - their rooms don't have a TV. If one wants, one can really unplug themselves from the outside world and enjoy the serenity all around.<br />
<br />
We visited the resort in the winters and there was snow all around. It was beautiful and very peaceful. The spa service was excellent and a perfect place to lounge around during the day. I am sure the resort would be spectacular in the summers too once the flowers are in full bloom.<br />
<br />
Here are some photos, if you'd like to see...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FKBbUJleNCA/UP1zI8kwTkI/AAAAAAAAOfA/Fhwa4MbYk0M/s1600/IMG_1906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FKBbUJleNCA/UP1zI8kwTkI/AAAAAAAAOfA/Fhwa4MbYk0M/s640/IMG_1906.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2skh0oRu-cE/UP1zLP3Z1LI/AAAAAAAAOfI/qKhdJyp9j9Y/s1600/IMG_1917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2skh0oRu-cE/UP1zLP3Z1LI/AAAAAAAAOfI/qKhdJyp9j9Y/s640/IMG_1917.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hWFO_357NS8/UP2ozN99EvI/AAAAAAAAOkE/zd8id32TzbI/s1600/IMG_1923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hWFO_357NS8/UP2ozN99EvI/AAAAAAAAOkE/zd8id32TzbI/s640/IMG_1923.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5dF68cil41w/UP1zL9TmYRI/AAAAAAAAOfU/AnrHF-5xk3I/s1600/IMG_1907.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5dF68cil41w/UP1zL9TmYRI/AAAAAAAAOfU/AnrHF-5xk3I/s640/IMG_1907.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YBgQuGfplnc/UP1zOi2TVQI/AAAAAAAAOfg/QJ39P188dOY/s1600/IMG_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YBgQuGfplnc/UP1zOi2TVQI/AAAAAAAAOfg/QJ39P188dOY/s640/IMG_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwrmhXcBKv8/UP1zQL19PWI/AAAAAAAAOfo/aCN2HZW5XDI/s1600/IMG_1924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kwrmhXcBKv8/UP1zQL19PWI/AAAAAAAAOfo/aCN2HZW5XDI/s640/IMG_1924.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UbXOUQ3RD_A/UP1zQmYJX2I/AAAAAAAAOf4/pU2z0mkkWts/s1600/IMG_1932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UbXOUQ3RD_A/UP1zQmYJX2I/AAAAAAAAOf4/pU2z0mkkWts/s640/IMG_1932.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYXX4qgcAaU/UP1zScMFFRI/AAAAAAAAOgA/tJafHEv4rYE/s1600/IMG_1939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYXX4qgcAaU/UP1zScMFFRI/AAAAAAAAOgA/tJafHEv4rYE/s640/IMG_1939.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6QgrVKowY8k/UP1zTZJ5L4I/AAAAAAAAOgI/gtCTgNbxcvI/s1600/IMG_1947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6QgrVKowY8k/UP1zTZJ5L4I/AAAAAAAAOgI/gtCTgNbxcvI/s640/IMG_1947.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HV7sPdTt4CU/UP11SDTeO5I/AAAAAAAAOi0/GcTVRbQwHUU/s1600/IMG_1925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HV7sPdTt4CU/UP11SDTeO5I/AAAAAAAAOi0/GcTVRbQwHUU/s640/IMG_1925.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-idcc7WP-_Pg/UP1zUXgWWeI/AAAAAAAAOgQ/8YVS8Ou9cvo/s1600/IMG_1954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-idcc7WP-_Pg/UP1zUXgWWeI/AAAAAAAAOgQ/8YVS8Ou9cvo/s640/IMG_1954.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iw-OxIakNdM/UP1zVCxIn1I/AAAAAAAAOgY/_1jF7gjITwg/s1600/IMG_1958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iw-OxIakNdM/UP1zVCxIn1I/AAAAAAAAOgY/_1jF7gjITwg/s640/IMG_1958.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVkb9Qw_2rM/UP1zWRkkJ_I/AAAAAAAAOgg/9ro87ZsvDJs/s1600/IMG_1974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVkb9Qw_2rM/UP1zWRkkJ_I/AAAAAAAAOgg/9ro87ZsvDJs/s640/IMG_1974.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-61840050329747256592013-01-02T12:03:00.000-05:002013-05-10T21:31:19.003-04:00New Year Resolutions (or not) <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy New Year everybody!!! Welcome back from the holidays.<br />
<br />
I love welcoming in the new year but hate making resolutions. I feel like we don't need Jan1st of 20XX to make the same promises to ourselves about things which we should be doing anyways. We get all excited and make resolutions at the beginning of the year but somewhere down the road the excitement fades, the resolutions are compromised and we are back to square one. So there you have it all. That's how I feel about New Year Resolutions!!<br />
<br />
We are always so eager to make resolutions, to make it bigger, better and wanting more, that we forget to acknowledge and give ourselves credit for all that we have and all the good we did. This year I would like to start 2013 by giving myself credit for the all things that I did well last year.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Meditate More</i></span></b></h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fXWu8TLjDAY/UORZQfpdX7I/AAAAAAAAObU/4psAnmmahJE/s1600/meditation-omharmonics1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="363" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fXWu8TLjDAY/UORZQfpdX7I/AAAAAAAAObU/4psAnmmahJE/s640/meditation-omharmonics1.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: landsofwisdom.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been meditating for over a year now and following the art of mindful living. Last year I took it up a notch and plunged into a 10 day silent meditation retreat called <a href="http://www.dhamma.org/" target="_blank">Vipassana</a>. I observed " noble silence" - that is, silence of body, speech and mind for 10 days. It was the hardest challenge of my life and I emerged a winner, feeling happier, lighter and more at peace. I want to take a minute to acknowledge this wonderful experience and thank myself for my continued efforts to make my practice better.<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Be Grateful</span></i></b></h3>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5H6wJp3kYr0/UORc8v7EBZI/AAAAAAAAOcg/w7B9X57pMug/s1600/grateful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5H6wJp3kYr0/UORc8v7EBZI/AAAAAAAAOcg/w7B9X57pMug/s640/grateful.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: google.com/images</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This past year I have learnt to find joy in small things. To appreciate more of what I have and fret less about what I don't. We often have a long list of things we want, a better job, a bigger house, more money, more clothes, more of this and more of that. In the quest to achieve more, we forget to appreciate what we already have. Being grateful for what I have gives me immense happiness. This past year I made it a daily practice to remind myself of the small miracle in my life.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><i><span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Slay your Dragons</span></i></b></h3>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5IHa2WHNYZc/UORimj6EJMI/AAAAAAAAOds/A7aoUtIuonw/s1600/Knight_Dragon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5IHa2WHNYZc/UORimj6EJMI/AAAAAAAAOds/A7aoUtIuonw/s640/Knight_Dragon.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: google.com/images</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We all have our dragons (fears) that stop us from achieving what we want to achieve. That inner voice, that tells us, "you are not good at it", "it's too late to start", " are you sure you can do this" these are all our fears. Our ego wanting to keep us safe, to protect us. I had and still have plenty of dragons in my closet. Last year I decided to slay a few. I went on dates with my self to do things I was scared of the most. I took my camera and explored unknown territories. I drew more, i wrote poems and blogs, I accepted change. I silenced the voices in me that kept saying "I am not a good writer, that I suck at drawing, that there are much better photographers than me, that it's too late to learn how to dance". I slew my dragons and embarked on the unknown journey. I was scared but you what, it was fun to explore the artist in me. <br />
<br />
And as we usher into 2013 I'd like to follow my bliss, take more chances and face my fears. There, that is my new year resolution if you will!<br />
<br />
So, tell me did you make any new year resolutions? What's the thing you are proud of you did last year? What are you working on improving this year? I'd love to hear from you.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-57884677687715146942012-11-02T10:23:00.001-04:002012-12-21T14:08:38.329-05:00Hurricane Sandy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Pheeeww!!! It's been an eventful week. Hurricane Sandy paid us a visit and affected the lives of millions in almost 24 states. On the evening of October 29th, New York city was hit by the cyclone which flooded numerous streets, tunnels and subway lines. Lower Manhattan, Staten Island, Coney Island, the Rockaways, New Jersey were some areas severely hit by the storm. Millions were without power, heat and running water for several days.<br />
<br />
While we had prepared for the worst to come in terms of food supplies, water etc, no one knew what to expect. It was Siddharth's and my first time dealing with a hurricane. The winds started to pick up Sunday evening. By Monday morning, there was constant rain and the winds were all crazy. Trees danced like they were in a jam session. The winds howled like a beast in pain. It was loud and eerie. Things began to fly around and the rain poured like cats and dogs. By evening we got a call from our electricity company saying that they will shut our power. We ran to fill our tubs, pots and pans with water, made sure we had our flash light ready and candles all stocked. Charged all possible gadgets and informed our families.<br />
<br />
We awaited with bated breath for the darkness to engulf us. The light flickered a bit, then our cable died, followed by the internet. We assumed the next would be our power. An hour, two hours and nothing happened. Soon we dozed off.<br />
<br />
Tuesday morning, I woke up and stared out of the window, it was bright and sunny. Was the worst over? Had the storm passed?? I looked outside and Manhattan was still standing tall. Unaware of the damage the storm had caused, I switched on the TV and was in for a rude shock - everywhere there was DEVASTATION!!! Several parts of NYC. NJ had been hit badly.<br />
<br />
I decided to go out in my neighborhood to assess the situation and took my camera with me. I will forever be grateful for what I saw for the next 4 hours. While the internet and media was pouring with images of devastation, all I came across that day were beautiful pictures of my neighborhood. I went looking for trouble and devastation and all i could see was beauty everywhere. People and children were out on the streets and looked relieved and cheerful. And for that I am forever grateful!! Grateful for keeping me, my family and my neighborhood safe.<br />
<br />
Here are the images I captured in my neighborhood (Park slope, Brooklyn) on the day after the hurricane. We are so lucky and grateful to have gotten through the hurricane unscathed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3T-gjotvUE/UJFqECGg5FI/AAAAAAAAOEc/L9zkxSvSGww/s1600/MP8A0499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s3T-gjotvUE/UJFqECGg5FI/AAAAAAAAOEc/L9zkxSvSGww/s640/MP8A0499.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DC1DLoc4yc/UJFqXhq9GFI/AAAAAAAAOEk/Vei0du38ea4/s1600/MP8A0500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DC1DLoc4yc/UJFqXhq9GFI/AAAAAAAAOEk/Vei0du38ea4/s640/MP8A0500.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zNtX27jJ8j8/UJFrsGuzG1I/AAAAAAAAOFE/eHuWkWSeu4E/s1600/MP8A0508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zNtX27jJ8j8/UJFrsGuzG1I/AAAAAAAAOFE/eHuWkWSeu4E/s640/MP8A0508.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-euZmsJJeGrg/UJFsayae4PI/AAAAAAAAOFU/WScrbR_CjYo/s1600/MP8A0512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-euZmsJJeGrg/UJFsayae4PI/AAAAAAAAOFU/WScrbR_CjYo/s640/MP8A0512.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UB7yoqhUPNA/UJLg5Z6LaRI/AAAAAAAAOWA/8O8rHL3wUkw/s1600/MP8A0520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UB7yoqhUPNA/UJLg5Z6LaRI/AAAAAAAAOWA/8O8rHL3wUkw/s640/MP8A0520.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RnIP4s5uPiQ/UJLhQSZnCZI/AAAAAAAAOWQ/OJUhzUpVq8Y/s1600/MP8A0524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RnIP4s5uPiQ/UJLhQSZnCZI/AAAAAAAAOWQ/OJUhzUpVq8Y/s640/MP8A0524.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_LVo5n1oeU/UJLhmZ01wbI/AAAAAAAAOWg/LjUuhvXYXI0/s1600/MP8A0557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0_LVo5n1oeU/UJLhmZ01wbI/AAAAAAAAOWg/LjUuhvXYXI0/s640/MP8A0557.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BNdFpRYqBZg/UJLhtcSN3qI/AAAAAAAAOWo/K3JwRwMct4Q/s1600/MP8A0566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BNdFpRYqBZg/UJLhtcSN3qI/AAAAAAAAOWo/K3JwRwMct4Q/s640/MP8A0566.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9RZf1Patp4/UJLh6Lu94rI/AAAAAAAAOWw/zCPJNeM_ce0/s1600/MP8A0567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9RZf1Patp4/UJLh6Lu94rI/AAAAAAAAOWw/zCPJNeM_ce0/s640/MP8A0567.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cz6OPaGoFXU/UJLiJDJOHPI/AAAAAAAAOW4/1qUtIki3PxI/s1600/MP8A0571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cz6OPaGoFXU/UJLiJDJOHPI/AAAAAAAAOW4/1qUtIki3PxI/s640/MP8A0571.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxN8eHwVbiM/UJLibePeQMI/AAAAAAAAOXA/v6yZCqp3kiY/s1600/MP8A0577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxN8eHwVbiM/UJLibePeQMI/AAAAAAAAOXA/v6yZCqp3kiY/s640/MP8A0577.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IRh-kfNNf60/UJLinPBpplI/AAAAAAAAOXI/BylCa6FmEaw/s1600/MP8A0583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IRh-kfNNf60/UJLinPBpplI/AAAAAAAAOXI/BylCa6FmEaw/s640/MP8A0583.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghe292n18AQ/UJLitYZ2QoI/AAAAAAAAOXQ/Y6JbpFbdg28/s1600/MP8A0590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ghe292n18AQ/UJLitYZ2QoI/AAAAAAAAOXQ/Y6JbpFbdg28/s640/MP8A0590.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R6N30r8P9TI/UJLi1TYdszI/AAAAAAAAOXY/M7MUQx_cl78/s1600/MP8A0600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R6N30r8P9TI/UJLi1TYdszI/AAAAAAAAOXY/M7MUQx_cl78/s640/MP8A0600.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CcdNZemgtgo/UJLjSDgBVkI/AAAAAAAAOXo/hN5pELKmc5Y/s1600/MP8A0604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CcdNZemgtgo/UJLjSDgBVkI/AAAAAAAAOXo/hN5pELKmc5Y/s640/MP8A0604.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UP_m5F_igfM/UJLjhe-rOdI/AAAAAAAAOXw/FCwsrgNab-o/s1600/MP8A0609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UP_m5F_igfM/UJLjhe-rOdI/AAAAAAAAOXw/FCwsrgNab-o/s640/MP8A0609.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-esvCcafFkLo/UJLjuP4XurI/AAAAAAAAOX4/GCXE59Nooeg/s1600/MP8A0613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-esvCcafFkLo/UJLjuP4XurI/AAAAAAAAOX4/GCXE59Nooeg/s640/MP8A0613.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vyy_TCEVfCo/UJLj55HV0GI/AAAAAAAAOYA/5woP_VFDzYE/s1600/MP8A0616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vyy_TCEVfCo/UJLj55HV0GI/AAAAAAAAOYA/5woP_VFDzYE/s640/MP8A0616.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_78O_h4yVzs/UJLkEnPDqiI/AAAAAAAAOYI/R0bTiH7lXPU/s1600/MP8A0627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_78O_h4yVzs/UJLkEnPDqiI/AAAAAAAAOYI/R0bTiH7lXPU/s640/MP8A0627.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9fo90VNPoZk/UJLkOv_kDKI/AAAAAAAAOYQ/e1TsD45iV7I/s1600/MP8A0633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9fo90VNPoZk/UJLkOv_kDKI/AAAAAAAAOYQ/e1TsD45iV7I/s640/MP8A0633.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5yHl4_DmjKo/UJLkdnnoP6I/AAAAAAAAOYY/mqyz6S48l18/s1600/MP8A0641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5yHl4_DmjKo/UJLkdnnoP6I/AAAAAAAAOYY/mqyz6S48l18/s640/MP8A0641.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--9LDdcFU3po/UJLkoRNu7jI/AAAAAAAAOYg/t0CDcU56CCo/s1600/MP8A0654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--9LDdcFU3po/UJLkoRNu7jI/AAAAAAAAOYg/t0CDcU56CCo/s640/MP8A0654.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PY33NL6ZiuI/UJLkzSV44DI/AAAAAAAAOYo/zNRKOXC4VCs/s1600/MP8A0657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PY33NL6ZiuI/UJLkzSV44DI/AAAAAAAAOYo/zNRKOXC4VCs/s640/MP8A0657.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pcpa-8ooIoc/UJLlUDl17ZI/AAAAAAAAOZA/XiiYZXibR3Q/s1600/MP8A0673.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pcpa-8ooIoc/UJLlUDl17ZI/AAAAAAAAOZA/XiiYZXibR3Q/s640/MP8A0673.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eVCdssHfX6s/UJLldfzyyLI/AAAAAAAAOZI/sLjAxEzA7lI/s1600/MP8A0678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eVCdssHfX6s/UJLldfzyyLI/AAAAAAAAOZI/sLjAxEzA7lI/s640/MP8A0678.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_MCQUJnnow/UJLlnfZAL9I/AAAAAAAAOZQ/7SVzR0qQHPQ/s1600/MP8A0680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i_MCQUJnnow/UJLlnfZAL9I/AAAAAAAAOZQ/7SVzR0qQHPQ/s640/MP8A0680.jpg" width="390" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nEC50k168To/UJLlyf4nsII/AAAAAAAAOZY/ZUMRrmGgKwo/s1600/MP8A0681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nEC50k168To/UJLlyf4nsII/AAAAAAAAOZY/ZUMRrmGgKwo/s640/MP8A0681.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ci-IJXySpdg/UJLl8ul5a5I/AAAAAAAAOZg/OR8kRTzkL-8/s1600/MP8A0684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ci-IJXySpdg/UJLl8ul5a5I/AAAAAAAAOZg/OR8kRTzkL-8/s640/MP8A0684.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kOCsf1QYzE4/UJLmFD4ixYI/AAAAAAAAOZo/iqZ-0TACuIA/s1600/MP8A0686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kOCsf1QYzE4/UJLmFD4ixYI/AAAAAAAAOZo/iqZ-0TACuIA/s640/MP8A0686.jpg" width="394" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ADLd7kxuRbY/UJLmL-1WHMI/AAAAAAAAOZw/3yGLd6S5Qeo/s1600/MP8A0695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ADLd7kxuRbY/UJLmL-1WHMI/AAAAAAAAOZw/3yGLd6S5Qeo/s640/MP8A0695.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/incredible-pictures-of-hurricane-sandys-new-jerse" target="_blank">Here</a> and <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/shocking-before-after-photos-of-hurricane-sandy" target="_blank">here</a> are some incredible pictures of hurricane Sandy's destruction.<br />
<br />
My heart goes out to the millions of people whose lives have changed because of this storm. Whose devastation knows no bound. All the best to you and your families as you come together to help and support each other. <br />
<br />
<b><span id="goog_1864121801"></span><span id="goog_1864121802"></span>How can you help?? </b><br />
<br />
- To volunteer immediately, email - <b><i><a href="http://nycservice@cityhall.nyc.gov/" style="text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">nycservice@cityhall.nyc.gov</a> </i></b>with your name, email address and borough.<br />
- The Red Cross is looking for shelter volunteers - visit <b><i><u><a href="http://nyredcross.org/" target="_blank">nyredcross.org</a></u></i></b> for sign-up information<br />
- For other opportunities go to <b><i><u><a href="http://newyorkcares.org/" target="_blank">newyorkcares.org</a></u></i></b><br />
- To donate money, visit <b><i><u><a href="http://salvationarmyusa.org/" target="_blank">salvationarmyusa.or</a>g</u></i></b><br />
- The Humane Society is accepting donations (<b><i><u><a href="http://humanesociety.org/" target="_blank">humanesociety.org</a></u></i></b>)<br />
<br />
Here are some <a href="http://manhattanusersguide.com/article/how-to-help-november-1-2012" target="_blank">other ways to help</a><br />
<br />
My prayer for all:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
May all be happy, may all be happy, may all be happy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May you be happy, may you be happy, may you be happy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whether visible or invisible, may all beings be happy </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of earth, of water, or of sky, may all be happy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of all the direction may all be happy</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May all be free from fear, animosity and insecurity</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May all be happy, may all be happy, may all be happy</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-41451468891875302302012-10-07T21:10:00.000-04:002013-01-24T10:05:45.918-05:00DUMBO, NYC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my favorite neighborhoods in NYC is DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). DUMBO has spectacular views of the city including the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridge. It's a combination of old warehouses, unique boutiques, restaurants and pricey condos and lofts. Various art galleries adorn the streets of this small neighborhood. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-haypCmy68TA/UHGZRbRU4MI/AAAAAAAAN8Y/XerIH0KMlh4/s1600/MP8A0373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-haypCmy68TA/UHGZRbRU4MI/AAAAAAAAN8Y/XerIH0KMlh4/s640/MP8A0373.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Manhattan bridge with the Empire state building in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6f_Mxkz4G8/UHHUFj1PhDI/AAAAAAAAOBs/hICz6JQp3KA/s1600/photo(19).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z6f_Mxkz4G8/UHHUFj1PhDI/AAAAAAAAOBs/hICz6JQp3KA/s640/photo(19).jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the Manhattan Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The lush green Brooklyn bridge park is a perfect spot to spend an afternoon. You can wander around the pathways and gaze at the views of the Statue of Liberty, have a picnic, read a book or just enjoy the excellent city views and the fresh breeze along the East river. During the summer there are plenty of food vendors, special concerts, kayaking off the piers and many other fun activities for all age groups.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SiHoHNDLhAc/UHGanbYPVZI/AAAAAAAAN8o/7IPkPSjpPyM/s1600/MP8A0389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SiHoHNDLhAc/UHGanbYPVZI/AAAAAAAAN8o/7IPkPSjpPyM/s640/MP8A0389.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect spot for picnics</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLoK_HGXaY4/UHGbDFkMXbI/AAAAAAAAN8w/5qICfz_eOkQ/s1600/MP8A0395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLoK_HGXaY4/UHGbDFkMXbI/AAAAAAAAN8w/5qICfz_eOkQ/s640/MP8A0395.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manhattan Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cR4JzUOeiw/UHGboVV5XUI/AAAAAAAAN84/tV7BZPgzj_s/s1600/MP8A0412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9cR4JzUOeiw/UHGboVV5XUI/AAAAAAAAN84/tV7BZPgzj_s/s640/MP8A0412.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the Manhattan bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCz4U4SnSFE/UHIkNtyz3PI/AAAAAAAAODE/00ovrsrHGII/s1600/DSC_0410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCz4U4SnSFE/UHIkNtyz3PI/AAAAAAAAODE/00ovrsrHGII/s640/DSC_0410.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1aOwsPKFI4I/UHHTbvP-xuI/AAAAAAAAOA0/hdkfvPd9iVM/s1600/IMG_0178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1aOwsPKFI4I/UHHTbvP-xuI/AAAAAAAAOA0/hdkfvPd9iVM/s640/IMG_0178.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sit along the river and enjoy the lovely views of the city</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;">DUMBO is a kids friendly neighborhood. Apart from the lush green parks, there are plenty of playgrounds for children. The play areas are well equipped with swings and is a hotspot in the evenings. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KaN9zUbY9mU/UHGZ3Pa1UiI/AAAAAAAAN8g/OPkkMJKX3KM/s1600/MP8A0386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KaN9zUbY9mU/UHGZ3Pa1UiI/AAAAAAAAN8g/OPkkMJKX3KM/s640/MP8A0386.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://janescarousel.com/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Jane's Carousel </a><span style="text-align: left;">created in 1922 is a spectacular addition to the neighborhood enjoyed by both kids and the adults. For $2 a ride it's a treat not to be missed. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BCd_op4KchQ/UHGdFWegVXI/AAAAAAAAN9I/C96FDZ8w7Zc/s1600/MP8A0435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BCd_op4KchQ/UHGdFWegVXI/AAAAAAAAN9I/C96FDZ8w7Zc/s640/MP8A0435.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jane's Carousel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In September the famous <a href="http://brooklyn.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=brooklyn&cdn=citiestowns&tm=667&f=10&su=p284.13.342.ip_p554.23.342.ip_&tt=3&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//dumboartsfestival.com/" target="_blank">Dumbo Art's Festival </a>features work of over 500 artists. This was my first year visiting the festival and I absolutely loved it. I was specially intrigued by the projects sponsored by the <a href="http://www.cmany.org/" target="_blank">Children's Museum of Art</a>. The projects were vibrant, creative and so much fun. Here are a few pictures I took. It was a day well spent admiring some talented artistis. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WlNtzhDp1vo/UHHQnnU6HSI/AAAAAAAAN_s/rh0GzLPWeDk/s1600/IMG_0138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WlNtzhDp1vo/UHHQnnU6HSI/AAAAAAAAN_s/rh0GzLPWeDk/s640/IMG_0138.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Youngs minds at work!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KUUGxaY2JqE/UHHRBEkzC3I/AAAAAAAAN_8/pRM1bygxFUg/s1600/IMG_0140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KUUGxaY2JqE/UHHRBEkzC3I/AAAAAAAAN_8/pRM1bygxFUg/s640/IMG_0140.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g3aS4F_WQ6o/UHHRTJKjhaI/AAAAAAAAOAE/ffdsqtilGi8/s1600/IMG_0143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g3aS4F_WQ6o/UHHRTJKjhaI/AAAAAAAAOAE/ffdsqtilGi8/s640/IMG_0143.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siddharth posing at one of the warehouses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_PT28eWSqI/UHHTRPaq5uI/AAAAAAAAOAs/VlKkeRBlCd8/s1600/IMG_0170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_PT28eWSqI/UHHTRPaq5uI/AAAAAAAAOAs/VlKkeRBlCd8/s640/IMG_0170.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the artistic creations near the river</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wo-MjwLbn_w/UHHTj5jzmPI/AAAAAAAAOA8/K9zJKMz3uy0/s1600/IMG_0179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wo-MjwLbn_w/UHHTj5jzmPI/AAAAAAAAOA8/K9zJKMz3uy0/s640/IMG_0179.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Admiring the view </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In Brooklyn, there is no lack of good food options. There is always great pizza everywhere. <a href="http://www.grimaldis.com/" target="_blank">Grimaldi's </a>is a must eat pizza place if you can patiently endure the super long lines. Once inside, the pizza is a sure winner. It's spectacular!! Read my yelp review <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/grimaldis-brooklyn#hrid:t4CqCTtaGoCcFFm2mTv6hQ" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUlyJ449_Gs/UHHTy5k77II/AAAAAAAAOBM/_Y1jbRHH8pE/s1600/DSC_0366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HUlyJ449_Gs/UHHTy5k77II/AAAAAAAAOBM/_Y1jbRHH8pE/s640/DSC_0366.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside Grimaldi's Pizza </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2hGbReY2loM/UHHT4Isp_qI/AAAAAAAAOBU/JMTbkVDrcLo/s1600/DSC_0370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2hGbReY2loM/UHHT4Isp_qI/AAAAAAAAOBU/JMTbkVDrcLo/s640/DSC_0370.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Long lines at Grimaldi's Pizza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoA21REw9oM/UHHUAQjT_vI/AAAAAAAAOBk/KbR6f45qOiM/s1600/IMG_2249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xoA21REw9oM/UHHUAQjT_vI/AAAAAAAAOBk/KbR6f45qOiM/s640/IMG_2249.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious pizza!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another recent favorite of ours is the Mexican place -<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/grimaldis-brooklyn#hrid:t4CqCTtaGoCcFFm2mTv6hQ" target="_blank"> Gran Electrica</a>. Love their rad wall paper, cocktails and their delicious mexican tapas. Oh and don't forget to check out their romantic, outdoor seating area. It's a winner all the way!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HCz2FnbWubQ/UHHN-j08kJI/AAAAAAAAN-c/ShTAcjB9hGM/s1600/MP8A0462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HCz2FnbWubQ/UHHN-j08kJI/AAAAAAAAN-c/ShTAcjB9hGM/s640/MP8A0462.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gran Electrica - DUMBO's new Tequira</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbXcQW637pg/UHHPmQ4SfII/AAAAAAAAN-0/rASPvvoRTVY/s1600/IMG_0115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QbXcQW637pg/UHHPmQ4SfII/AAAAAAAAN-0/rASPvvoRTVY/s640/IMG_0115.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Electrica's cute wall paper</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eVzY6RO9ZXk/UHImaLYZFkI/AAAAAAAAODM/mJA2Q25SOkA/s1600/MP8A0471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eVzY6RO9ZXk/UHImaLYZFkI/AAAAAAAAODM/mJA2Q25SOkA/s640/MP8A0471.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor seating</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgHYwpPB658/UHHQBI0VmfI/AAAAAAAAN_U/yWy1ofWi_FA/s1600/IMG_0120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgHYwpPB658/UHHQBI0VmfI/AAAAAAAAN_U/yWy1ofWi_FA/s400/IMG_0120.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tostado Jaiba</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvmC8Y-RP94/UHHP7sq0svI/AAAAAAAAN_M/WAIEkPv0M1A/s1600/IMG_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvmC8Y-RP94/UHHP7sq0svI/AAAAAAAAN_M/WAIEkPv0M1A/s400/IMG_0118.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setas Quesadilla </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-L9g-Lu0pk/UHHPyJ7HWKI/AAAAAAAAN_E/RNS4xaLT3B0/s1600/IMG_0117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-L9g-Lu0pk/UHHPyJ7HWKI/AAAAAAAAN_E/RNS4xaLT3B0/s400/IMG_0117.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poblano Chile Tacos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To satisfy your sweet tooth, head straight to <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/brooklyn-ice-cream-factory-brooklyn-2#hrid:qVnjcE9O79UjpP3sSHOB2w" target="_blank">The Brooklyn Ice Cream factory</a>. Their ice creams are delicious!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQiPhXvrvMg/UHIjqLy9NcI/AAAAAAAAOC8/kvpSHS2fQSo/s1600/DSC_0412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQiPhXvrvMg/UHIjqLy9NcI/AAAAAAAAOC8/kvpSHS2fQSo/s400/DSC_0412.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Another place famous amongst the tourists is the One Girl Cookies. They make all sorts of cookies, cupcakes, whoopie pies and deserts. What did i think about them? Read <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/one-girl-cookies-new-york-2#hrid:8EOSnE_T32ZBcPOU1LkiVQ" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yBqOWePRqLM/UHGdiAmf_YI/AAAAAAAAN9Q/L8qT_P955uE/s640/MP8A0444.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One Girl Cookies </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lZJ8DFqPxs/UHGeBobv2AI/AAAAAAAAN9Y/AD91QdeBJYI/s1600/MP8A0445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_lZJ8DFqPxs/UHGeBobv2AI/AAAAAAAAN9Y/AD91QdeBJYI/s640/MP8A0445.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBwQiXQKN_U/UHHTuK0HoQI/AAAAAAAAOBE/PE_BonTfmWc/s1600/IMG_0189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBwQiXQKN_U/UHHTuK0HoQI/AAAAAAAAOBE/PE_BonTfmWc/s640/IMG_0189.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assortment of cookies and cakes </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some other fun places to eat are: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/almar-brooklyn-2#hrid:FJc39uYmSA8mFlyxoKN_vg" target="_blank">AlMar</a> - cash only </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://bubbys.com/" target="_blank">Bubby's</a> - cash only</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/best-chocolate-cake-in-the-world02/" target="_blank">Choco Bolo</a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/governor/" target="_blank">Governer </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/jacques-torres-chocolate/" target="_blank">Jacques Torres Chocolate</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/river-cafe/" target="_blank">The River Cafe</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://nymag.com/listings/restaurant/superfine/" target="_blank">Superfine</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-sCLWinKss/UHIi1Z2e57I/AAAAAAAAOC0/R3aIBNUxVfE/s1600/DSC_0400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-sCLWinKss/UHIi1Z2e57I/AAAAAAAAOC0/R3aIBNUxVfE/s640/DSC_0400.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River cafe restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vuXrj5p8m-Q/UHHTEAWwn2I/AAAAAAAAOAk/QSITiKkPqBU/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="142" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vuXrj5p8m-Q/UHHTEAWwn2I/AAAAAAAAOAk/QSITiKkPqBU/s640/IMG_0164.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another Panoramic view of DUMBO<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium; text-align: left;">Many people come to DUMBO just to take photographs, for wedding pictures, special occasions and anniversaries. The New York City skyline provides a perfect background for any picture. Located just 648 ft from the Brooklyn bridge, this yuppy, artistic and creative neighborhood is becoming one of New York's most talked-about borough!! </span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dOGlwHJSkQY/UHGYzfVDgbI/AAAAAAAAN8Q/arW3cwfVPbc/s1600/MP8A0371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dOGlwHJSkQY/UHGYzfVDgbI/AAAAAAAAN8Q/arW3cwfVPbc/s640/MP8A0371.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the Brooklyn bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-36599611279828039582012-09-17T12:16:00.004-04:002012-09-17T12:21:45.483-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 5 - Zaanse Schans <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was our last day in Amsterdam and we decided to venture out of the city for a bit. I wanted to visit one of the open air museums and we decided on Zaanse Schans. It's about a 15 minute train ride and then a 15 minute walk to the museum from Amsterdam. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Unlike the other museums, this is an open-air museum. It almost feels like you are visiting a small countryside town. They have re-created a 17th century Dutch town and is devoted to the traditional lifestyle along the Zaan. Zaan was once lined with hundreds of windmills. Today it's heavily industrialized and houses a giant corporate chocolate factory. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'll now let the pictures speak for the place.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh6Mz7m6KAQ/UEAjNJxbldI/AAAAAAAAN4A/vvCiRagIZ6c/s1600/DSC_0973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jh6Mz7m6KAQ/UEAjNJxbldI/AAAAAAAAN4A/vvCiRagIZ6c/s640/DSC_0973.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A typical windmill as you enter the town </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oAv9HULTSB8/UEAjHiydofI/AAAAAAAAN34/5j_3K6oQ8wU/s1600/DSC_0972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oAv9HULTSB8/UEAjHiydofI/AAAAAAAAN34/5j_3K6oQ8wU/s640/DSC_0972.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sid posing in front of the windmill </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-94p_VngIDpA/UEAhkmfo1dI/AAAAAAAAN2I/36uU8xU5lkk/s1600/DSC_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-94p_VngIDpA/UEAhkmfo1dI/AAAAAAAAN2I/36uU8xU5lkk/s640/DSC_0019.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsPmtpXVlRw/UECs50TePdI/AAAAAAAAN6g/ByDIrCTkfWw/s1600/DSC_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsPmtpXVlRw/UECs50TePdI/AAAAAAAAN6g/ByDIrCTkfWw/s640/DSC_1024.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of tourists just rent bikes and bike around the museum </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3lW3HFunPU/UEAjb5hVyLI/AAAAAAAAN4Q/mZRt58U-QkU/s1600/DSC_0979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3lW3HFunPU/UEAjb5hVyLI/AAAAAAAAN4Q/mZRt58U-QkU/s640/DSC_0979.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lush green scenery </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kNJ9h7s9fHI/UEAjjh5sgFI/AAAAAAAAN4Y/M1JkK7uGOjM/s1600/DSC_0980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kNJ9h7s9fHI/UEAjjh5sgFI/AAAAAAAAN4Y/M1JkK7uGOjM/s640/DSC_0980.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture perfect, straight from a fairy tale</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbGt92BB-vI/UEAiwhxpX8I/AAAAAAAAN3g/Kr1PfUTHbHQ/s1600/DSC_0127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XbGt92BB-vI/UEAiwhxpX8I/AAAAAAAAN3g/Kr1PfUTHbHQ/s640/DSC_0127.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZfDPOMwdn4/UEAjv38INNI/AAAAAAAAN4o/FcYmlaBlvYE/s1600/DSC_0983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WZfDPOMwdn4/UEAjv38INNI/AAAAAAAAN4o/FcYmlaBlvYE/s640/DSC_0983.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ctrTjmkXIiQ/UECsL731uAI/AAAAAAAAN5o/ijysVy8XchU/s1600/DSC_0986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ctrTjmkXIiQ/UECsL731uAI/AAAAAAAAN5o/ijysVy8XchU/s640/DSC_0986.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OqcoobfaP1o/UECsRPom98I/AAAAAAAAN5w/GiYA5tBk2sg/s1600/DSC_0990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OqcoobfaP1o/UECsRPom98I/AAAAAAAAN5w/GiYA5tBk2sg/s640/DSC_0990.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">We toured one of the several old fashioned windmills. This particular one was used for grinding the spices. Try to choose a windmill that is spinning, that ways you will be able to see more action inside. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCPeOsRlG9o/UEAhencX4dI/AAAAAAAAN2A/7Mh1s8h5iao/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCPeOsRlG9o/UEAhencX4dI/AAAAAAAAN2A/7Mh1s8h5iao/s640/DSC_0003.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">This man selling delicious gelato caught my attention. His cart was small but full of colorful objects. The two brass lids are huge pots where he keeps the gelato. </span><span style="text-align: left;">The gelato was creamy and simply delicious!!</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i-AzOXcqDNc/UEAhYGPuLZI/AAAAAAAAN14/rOqBmATeJFg/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i-AzOXcqDNc/UEAhYGPuLZI/AAAAAAAAN14/rOqBmATeJFg/s640/DSC_0001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gelato cart</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMf-M17M9qw/UEAhrBOO1cI/AAAAAAAAN2Q/Dn_PZZ_f4BA/s1600/DSC_0029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMf-M17M9qw/UEAhrBOO1cI/AAAAAAAAN2Q/Dn_PZZ_f4BA/s640/DSC_0029.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
There are plenty of museums all around and in some places you could pet animals :) I don't know who was more scared, the goat or me??<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt7MN1V1OUY/UEAhw4IiQSI/AAAAAAAAN2Y/ZXcRge1_IRw/s1600/DSC_0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lt7MN1V1OUY/UEAhw4IiQSI/AAAAAAAAN2Y/ZXcRge1_IRw/s640/DSC_0033.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It was a beautiful day and i thoroughly enjoyed just walking around aimlessly. The sun was warm and bright and it was a scene straight from fairy tales. It was unbelievably picture perfect. Our next stop was the Clog museum (or the wooden shoe workshop). This one in particular is more engaging that the other attractions. You can catch a live demonstration of how clogs are made.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TIcZalL8jg8/UEAiBiUIivI/AAAAAAAAN2o/JzalyB7JgVY/s1600/DSC_0049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TIcZalL8jg8/UEAiBiUIivI/AAAAAAAAN2o/JzalyB7JgVY/s640/DSC_0049.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--33KuSkf_WI/UEAiH5v80II/AAAAAAAAN2w/PWWsr1J7BRY/s1600/DSC_0052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--33KuSkf_WI/UEAiH5v80II/AAAAAAAAN2w/PWWsr1J7BRY/s640/DSC_0052.jpg" width="364" /></a></div>
Colorful clogs from different regions of Netherlands were beautifully displayed in the museum. Excitedly, I tried one on but decided against buying it. They were a bit heavy and would require getting used to it. I loved the bright colors and the patterns imprinted on each one of them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0pf0pzj_GM/UEAiPZ0naOI/AAAAAAAAN24/uhuZzVbFHxw/s1600/DSC_0071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L0pf0pzj_GM/UEAiPZ0naOI/AAAAAAAAN24/uhuZzVbFHxw/s640/DSC_0071.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SxZxxHKkYbs/UEAicJrRyTI/AAAAAAAAN3I/52VH51viWkQ/s1600/DSC_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SxZxxHKkYbs/UEAicJrRyTI/AAAAAAAAN3I/52VH51viWkQ/s640/DSC_0108.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sid, tries his hand on these, finally after a few attempts manages to perfectly balance on it :) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The De Catharina, Hoeve Cheese farm is really a giant cheese shop which shows you how cheese is made. A costumed Dutch maiden explains the process in detail and in the end dispenses samples of cheese hoping to allure customers into buying some :)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DmmtK43Abos/UEAii1SDCbI/AAAAAAAAN3Q/fZMetgDoDxQ/s1600/DSC_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DmmtK43Abos/UEAii1SDCbI/AAAAAAAAN3Q/fZMetgDoDxQ/s640/DSC_0118.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the cheese making museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nKbQE7RnUqc/UEAiou9F8oI/AAAAAAAAN3Y/ZkEUNXn5AQs/s1600/DSC_0121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nKbQE7RnUqc/UEAiou9F8oI/AAAAAAAAN3Y/ZkEUNXn5AQs/s640/DSC_0121.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spotted this cute post on the way</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Zaanse Schans is a fun place to visit for a few hours during the day. There is a festive mood in the air and people are generally very relaxed and happy. They are lounging in their boats, drinking and having a good time. You might catch a live band playing in the evenings.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIRXzEEm5Xk/UEAi5d1emfI/AAAAAAAAN3o/7C-314Zdho0/s1600/DSC_0131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIRXzEEm5Xk/UEAi5d1emfI/AAAAAAAAN3o/7C-314Zdho0/s640/DSC_0131.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A live band entertaining the crowd</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-npR3W8Lduwk/UEAjAKkVCWI/AAAAAAAAN3w/2l_9nuY2n-4/s1600/DSC_0135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-npR3W8Lduwk/UEAjAKkVCWI/AAAAAAAAN3w/2l_9nuY2n-4/s640/DSC_0135.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are not very many food options at the museum. In fact to be precise there might be only two places to eat. We decided to try the De Hoop op d'Swarte Walvis. They have beautiful outdoor seating and an ambitiously priced menu. The food is nothing to rave about, but it's probably the best you will get out there. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZRkxOA5Z7M/UECsnMQhvlI/AAAAAAAAN6I/PHlYgUXFR3s/s1600/DSC_0998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZRkxOA5Z7M/UECsnMQhvlI/AAAAAAAAN6I/PHlYgUXFR3s/s640/DSC_0998.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor seating at the restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ePdpjQ8emV0/UECs_PrzW6I/AAAAAAAAN6o/aO-bvjgjYI0/s1600/IMG_2579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ePdpjQ8emV0/UECs_PrzW6I/AAAAAAAAN6o/aO-bvjgjYI0/s640/IMG_2579.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Wrap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qa8HwYqx2FE/UECtECpHUlI/AAAAAAAAN6w/7uo8cKTR9AI/s1600/IMG_2580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qa8HwYqx2FE/UECtECpHUlI/AAAAAAAAN6w/7uo8cKTR9AI/s640/IMG_2580.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The best experience about this outdoor dining was the live music. Every few minutes there were boats and boats of sailors singing out loud. It was so much fun to watch them. What a festive feeling :) I've never quite experienced something like this and loved it!! Here is a small video:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxh0avvU1TMtlcCsyRjhU4xRnsBBI3OzjNJrMHcQKgfu_9DOjlDdkWBzSNoC_bB74mvaWfqGUR2YkevnKEr1Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uSOUVJB87uk/UEAjUeRySGI/AAAAAAAAN4I/c0krInBJru8/s1600/DSC_0977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uSOUVJB87uk/UEAjUeRySGI/AAAAAAAAN4I/c0krInBJru8/s640/DSC_0977.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3YoZb0vUV2M/UEAjoMnPgHI/AAAAAAAAN4g/JGAlw2Hch_s/s1600/DSC_0982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3YoZb0vUV2M/UEAjoMnPgHI/AAAAAAAAN4g/JGAlw2Hch_s/s640/DSC_0982.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Zaanse Schans and would highly recommend it if you are visiting Amsterdam. It's unique, fun and a very Dutch experience!! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-32633213689587393962012-09-04T22:14:00.003-04:002012-09-04T22:19:51.770-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 5 - Amsterdam - Day 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I woke up excited!! <a href="http://www.pancake.nl/index.php" target="_blank">Pancake bakery</a>, <a href="http://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/vgm/index.jsp?lang=nl" target="_blank">Van Gogh museum</a>, Red Light district...today was going to be a fabulous day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mopjT60JQEI/UEAE7fOrj9I/AAAAAAAANuo/8TAVpD1QgUo/s1600/DSC_0809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mopjT60JQEI/UEAE7fOrj9I/AAAAAAAANuo/8TAVpD1QgUo/s640/DSC_0809.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBCxkhjRsd0/UEAFD8O9nfI/AAAAAAAANuw/k7g1bw6hGl0/s1600/DSC_0811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBCxkhjRsd0/UEAFD8O9nfI/AAAAAAAANuw/k7g1bw6hGl0/s640/DSC_0811.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After downing a cup of green tea, we quickly got ready and walked out straight to the <a href="http://www.pancake.nl/index.php" target="_blank">Pancake bakery</a>. The rumor has it that they have one of the best pancakes in town :) We were promptly greeted with a long queue. Almost a 40 minute wait. Well like obedient kids we stood in line patiently waiting for our name to be called. Once seated, we ordered the yummiest pancakes!!</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qGrHGK2ZL3o/UEAFIU2-UMI/AAAAAAAANu4/TWVWrV0fwwE/s1600/DSC_0816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qGrHGK2ZL3o/UEAFIU2-UMI/AAAAAAAANu4/TWVWrV0fwwE/s640/DSC_0816.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pancake bakery </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The wait was absolutely worth it. In a few minutes, 2 huge pancakes were staring at our face screaming out loud -- EAT ME!! And eat we did, like no one's business...they were delicious!!! BuRRRPPPP !!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r9XUa9KERaA/UEAH_P7jCkI/AAAAAAAANyw/raGXtxNrtIk/s1600/IMG_2556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r9XUa9KERaA/UEAH_P7jCkI/AAAAAAAANyw/raGXtxNrtIk/s640/IMG_2556.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VKt480OSMVo/UEAIEf3X34I/AAAAAAAANy4/LgqZ-pCSyMQ/s1600/IMG_2558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VKt480OSMVo/UEAIEf3X34I/AAAAAAAANy4/LgqZ-pCSyMQ/s640/IMG_2558.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken and cheese pancake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4gS_ZZCsENs/UEAFT8ErfvI/AAAAAAAANvI/G0yKzzy2sgw/s1600/DSC_0824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4gS_ZZCsENs/UEAFT8ErfvI/AAAAAAAANvI/G0yKzzy2sgw/s640/DSC_0824.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bga2cybnBik/UEAFm-6L6gI/AAAAAAAANvg/ghRtGoymyHo/s1600/DSC_0832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bga2cybnBik/UEAFm-6L6gI/AAAAAAAANvg/ghRtGoymyHo/s640/DSC_0832.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More bicycles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4aakueD1hDc/UEAFtd8ZQEI/AAAAAAAANvo/zje6dmXbq48/s1600/DSC_0833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4aakueD1hDc/UEAFtd8ZQEI/AAAAAAAANvo/zje6dmXbq48/s640/DSC_0833.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rVoVRKJ3R50/UEAF5bbKscI/AAAAAAAANv4/XSjrdqbTCfg/s1600/DSC_0837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rVoVRKJ3R50/UEAF5bbKscI/AAAAAAAANv4/XSjrdqbTCfg/s640/DSC_0837.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely outdoor cafe </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-asl0ECXJSEE/UEAGA3QohiI/AAAAAAAANwA/QwygrpbV5-s/s1600/DSC_0845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-asl0ECXJSEE/UEAGA3QohiI/AAAAAAAANwA/QwygrpbV5-s/s640/DSC_0845.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRirhFB6fa4/UEAGIpcTKEI/AAAAAAAANwI/7jfLVj9k9k0/s1600/DSC_0849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRirhFB6fa4/UEAGIpcTKEI/AAAAAAAANwI/7jfLVj9k9k0/s640/DSC_0849.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x1LayOGCyhg/UEAGWXgg_-I/AAAAAAAANwY/h0AX8276Rzs/s1600/DSC_0856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x1LayOGCyhg/UEAGWXgg_-I/AAAAAAAANwY/h0AX8276Rzs/s640/DSC_0856.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street signs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H_EbXaCBfQA/UEAGcJOIQKI/AAAAAAAANwg/zFE2cT3nxtE/s1600/DSC_0858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H_EbXaCBfQA/UEAGcJOIQKI/AAAAAAAANwg/zFE2cT3nxtE/s640/DSC_0858.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical homes in Amsterdam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After we stuffed our faces with delicious pancakes, we headed out for the very famous <a href="http://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/vgm/index.jsp?lang=nl" target="_blank">Van Gogh museum</a>. The wonderful tram transported us to the museum for less than 2 euros each. The next 2 hours were delightful!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8O0apZ8i3E/UEAG4GugQBI/AAAAAAAANxI/go5cDlshgp0/s1600/DSC_0881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8O0apZ8i3E/UEAG4GugQBI/AAAAAAAANxI/go5cDlshgp0/s640/DSC_0881.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I absolutely loved the <a href="http://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/vgm/index.jsp?lang=nl" target="_blank">Van Gogh museum</a>. We already had tickets to the <a href="http://www.vangoghmuseum.nl/vgm/index.jsp?lang=nl" target="_blank">museum</a> (thanks to our concierge) so we skipped the lines and went in. Bought the audio guide and went straight to his collection. The experience was amazing, the paintings were arranged in chronological order and each one had a beautiful story to tell. Stories about his struggle as an artist, the world around him, the various influences and stages of his life and the world around him, I stood and stared in amazement at each of the 200 odd pieces of creativity. Listening to stories so meaningful and so touching. Here is a glimpse of what might have been his last painting before he shot himself.<br />
<br />
Wheat fields with crows was Van Gogh's most powerful and fiercely debated paintings. Some see this painting as his suicide note put to canvas, while others have a more positive approach to it. The painting is turbulent, and certainly conveys a sense of loneliness in the fields - a powerful image of Van Gogh as a defeated and solitary artist in his final years<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUCVQ0wgKsY/UEAU_wRTQvI/AAAAAAAAN04/TqdpxAk4KAA/s1600/Vincent_van_Gogh_(1853-1890)_-_Wheat_Field_with_Crows_(1890).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUCVQ0wgKsY/UEAU_wRTQvI/AAAAAAAAN04/TqdpxAk4KAA/s640/Vincent_van_Gogh_(1853-1890)_-_Wheat_Field_with_Crows_(1890).jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wheat fields with crows - Van Gogh</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5m-caWYw0Q/UEAGgxfJBEI/AAAAAAAANwo/DM38EhFJzGo/s1600/DSC_0859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5m-caWYw0Q/UEAGgxfJBEI/AAAAAAAANwo/DM38EhFJzGo/s640/DSC_0859.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I Love Amsterdam!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I came out of the museum wanting to paint like him :) What a foolish thought!! The museum shop is stacked with everything Van Goghyyyy. Don't worry if you can't paint like him, you certainly can own clothes, mugs, magnets, calendars, etc etc with his paintings on it. They left no object out!! We decided to walk back to our hotel. Maybe a 2-3 mile walk. And glad we walked because we passed some amazing boutiques on the way that left a deep hole in my pocket!! I specially love this sign on the way and thought it was neat. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xqz7oxKueq0/UEAGlKOhq4I/AAAAAAAANww/eaFT5blYd58/s1600/DSC_0861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xqz7oxKueq0/UEAGlKOhq4I/AAAAAAAANww/eaFT5blYd58/s640/DSC_0861.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">We walked through Jordaan, a characteristic neighborhood filled with cafes, boutiques, bookstores and art galeries. Things unique and common to Amsterdam, but no other city in the world. Here is a picture of the typical houses in Amsterdam. They crowd together shoulder to shoulder. Most of them have big tall windows to bring in as much light as possible. Along the rooftops are Amsterdam's famous gables that come in all shapes and sizes. They are false fronts to enhance the roofs. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q3Cqt0TD1Zs/UEAG96tgP7I/AAAAAAAANxQ/9dbwyLPIc4o/s1600/DSC_0888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q3Cqt0TD1Zs/UEAG96tgP7I/AAAAAAAANxQ/9dbwyLPIc4o/s640/DSC_0888.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Van Zuylen cafe - famous for its variety of beers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Lohb2DErUg/UEAHJNhMqiI/AAAAAAAANxg/iIiyfBC_2UM/s1600/DSC_0891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Lohb2DErUg/UEAHJNhMqiI/AAAAAAAANxg/iIiyfBC_2UM/s640/DSC_0891.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I was extremely excited for the evening. We were going to check out the Red light district and instead of going alone we decided to take <a href="http://www.randyroysredlighttours.com/" target="_blank">Randy Roy's Red light district tour.</a> This is a 90 minute walking tour and I highly recommend it for anyone who is a first timer at the red light district. Our tour guide Kimberly was extremely knowledgeable and had a good sense of humor. She knew the area well and did a great job and our group was small and very manageable. We felt very comfortable and safe and I enjoyed the tour.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oktg8i-Hcf0/UEAHOTN9shI/AAAAAAAANxo/8IxRBpNf3N4/s1600/DSC_0896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oktg8i-Hcf0/UEAHOTN9shI/AAAAAAAANxo/8IxRBpNf3N4/s640/DSC_0896.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Light District </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNGNcdEFk_E/UEAHTGNZV-I/AAAAAAAANxw/SuNoueeLD3o/s1600/DSC_0898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNGNcdEFk_E/UEAHTGNZV-I/AAAAAAAANxw/SuNoueeLD3o/s640/DSC_0898.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unesco Heritage homes </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TUqv_ZaEJkI/UEAHXD63vOI/AAAAAAAANx4/5CpgZaDKyEA/s1600/DSC_0905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TUqv_ZaEJkI/UEAHXD63vOI/AAAAAAAANx4/5CpgZaDKyEA/s640/DSC_0905.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the canals in the Red Light district </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2GYVZ5vMcl8/UEAHdwTJYfI/AAAAAAAANyA/HrmvU2_t8Fs/s1600/DSC_0913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2GYVZ5vMcl8/UEAHdwTJYfI/AAAAAAAANyA/HrmvU2_t8Fs/s640/DSC_0913.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the oldest bars in Amsterdam </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JRAkisrC0m8/UEAHkoKx-zI/AAAAAAAANyI/I_xb8YEMQsI/s1600/DSC_0917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JRAkisrC0m8/UEAHkoKx-zI/AAAAAAAANyI/I_xb8YEMQsI/s640/DSC_0917.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After a wonderful tour of the red light district, we walked back to our hotel. There was a sudden urge to eat some delicious dessert and so we decided to go check out the apple pie at <a href="http://www.winkel43.nl/" target="_blank">Winkel</a>. This apple pie is hands down the best I have ever eaten. It was delicious!!! And the best part is, it costs only 3 euros :)<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ad8H3XwV_5c/UEAIcw0JJwI/AAAAAAAANzY/6AfFDSnPkhs/s1600/IMG_2569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ad8H3XwV_5c/UEAIcw0JJwI/AAAAAAAANzY/6AfFDSnPkhs/s400/IMG_2569.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They have the best Apple tart and it's only 3 Euros :) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The walk back to our hotel was beautiful. The canals were all lit up and sparkling. The city looked gorgeous and romantic. Such a beautiful and fun city. I loved every bit of day 2.<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fYHZArRxKSI/UEAHrpvfU1I/AAAAAAAANyQ/ZINWavpP8Bo/s1600/DSC_0933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fYHZArRxKSI/UEAHrpvfU1I/AAAAAAAANyQ/ZINWavpP8Bo/s640/DSC_0933.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MPgA-M5YzxY/UEAHyaB659I/AAAAAAAANyY/0SLxSt4Ct10/s1600/DSC_0943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MPgA-M5YzxY/UEAHyaB659I/AAAAAAAANyY/0SLxSt4Ct10/s640/DSC_0943.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-84842471612122452192012-08-26T20:56:00.002-04:002012-08-27T16:44:26.847-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 5 - Amsterdam - Day 1 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Paris, day 3 - The alarm goes off at 5am in the morning, I wake up sleepy and dazed. Our train for Amsterdam leaves at 7am. Quickly I brew a cup of coffee for both of us and wake up Siddharth. 6:30am and I am standing in a slow moving line at the hotel lobby to check out. Cursing the inefficient staff, I try to keep my calm even though my mind and heart are sprinting. 6:35am we hop into the cab and request the guy to drive us to the station as fast as he can. He looks at us like we are crazy and nods his head as if we should be prepared to miss our train. Whizzing through the empty streets of Paris, I pray we make it on time. As soon as the cab comes to a screeching halt we spring out of our seats and I begin to run. 6:55am - huffing and puffing we board the train and take our seats. I check 3 times to make sure we are in the right train in the right seats! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The next 3hr 20mins are a breeze. Smooth as silk! I weave in and out of dreams, eat my scrumptious breakfast and wait in excitement for our final destination. Finally the train pulls into Amsterdam Central train station and I am AWAKE. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Amsterdam is called "Venice of the North". It's known both for it's canals and it's past position as an economic powerhouse. It's a place of good living, cozy cafes, coffee houses :), great art and the attitude of live and let live. It has 790,654 people and almost as many bikes. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We checked in at the Renaissance Hotel (read my review <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/kantjil-and-de-tijger-amsterdam#hrid:VW5AoNhXvSbEZRWZ4JWQiw" target="_blank">here</a>)<span id="goog_1411646779"></span><span id="goog_1411646780"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a> and headed out for lunch. Based on </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.ricksteves.com/" target="_blank">Rick Steve's </a>recommendations we decide to try out an Indonesian restaurant, <a href="http://kantjil.nl/en/" target="_blank"> Restaurant Kantjil en de Tijger.</a> They are famous for their three rijsttafels (traditional rice tables with a dozen small courses). You can read more about my restaurant review here. I'd just like to entice you with some pictures of the scrumptious meal we had. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzE-ENzp68o/UDt3S1Mx9GI/AAAAAAAANtc/MzKNHmGSYGg/s1600/IMG_2516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzE-ENzp68o/UDt3S1Mx9GI/AAAAAAAANtc/MzKNHmGSYGg/s640/IMG_2516.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iced ginger, lemongrass tea</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ib6bj5r1wmQ/UDTwUCpXzWI/AAAAAAAANpM/G7tH_FNh-Y4/s1600/IMG_2517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ib6bj5r1wmQ/UDTwUCpXzWI/AAAAAAAANpM/G7tH_FNh-Y4/s640/IMG_2517.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veggie Fritters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VQfYhvwn5Ho/UDTwZLDQZCI/AAAAAAAANpU/o1K4n4tr0Go/s1600/IMG_2518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VQfYhvwn5Ho/UDTwZLDQZCI/AAAAAAAANpU/o1K4n4tr0Go/s640/IMG_2518.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring Rolls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4RxyoEg-Stw/UDTwlQo-llI/AAAAAAAANpk/Ys9T-nYNNvE/s1600/IMG_2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4RxyoEg-Stw/UDTwlQo-llI/AAAAAAAANpk/Ys9T-nYNNvE/s640/IMG_2521.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken Skewers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SNK5EeLOPjQ/UDTwrAJn_ZI/AAAAAAAANps/aK61D6Uds3M/s1600/IMG_2522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SNK5EeLOPjQ/UDTwrAJn_ZI/AAAAAAAANps/aK61D6Uds3M/s640/IMG_2522.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rijstaffel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
5 minutes in the city and you will realize 2 things: There are bikes and canals EVERYWHERE. I must admit it was intimidating to walk on the streets because you really had to look out for the bikers. They would come from nowhere. There were bikes in all shapes, sizes and colors. It was a feast to the eye.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YuC5-9QwH7w/UDTt7p9jMLI/AAAAAAAANl8/g6QPul-g4Yo/s1600/DSC_0723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YuC5-9QwH7w/UDTt7p9jMLI/AAAAAAAANl8/g6QPul-g4Yo/s640/DSC_0723.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4LyX6tPc0s/UDTt_Zh9biI/AAAAAAAANmE/Z4qpGlO3uDE/s1600/DSC_0726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W4LyX6tPc0s/UDTt_Zh9biI/AAAAAAAANmE/Z4qpGlO3uDE/s640/DSC_0726.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jhyn_S_hlYw/UDTuZUODgcI/AAAAAAAANmk/8ZYGcLVUlTs/s1600/DSC_0738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jhyn_S_hlYw/UDTuZUODgcI/AAAAAAAANmk/8ZYGcLVUlTs/s640/DSC_0738.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sapY5S7nUCY/UDTugmCyfII/AAAAAAAANms/WsPFAlBtwtU/s1600/DSC_0741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sapY5S7nUCY/UDTugmCyfII/AAAAAAAANms/WsPFAlBtwtU/s640/DSC_0741.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uI9a632eNQY/UDTvNbjm0II/AAAAAAAANnk/lc25exG8W2s/s1600/DSC_0755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uI9a632eNQY/UDTvNbjm0II/AAAAAAAANnk/lc25exG8W2s/s640/DSC_0755.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Canal boat tours like the one shown below are a popular way to see the city. You can see the entire city from a different level.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AiYthjQR0cY/UDTu8dkALtI/AAAAAAAANnM/5Ezo-4THbTE/s1600/DSC_0748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AiYthjQR0cY/UDTu8dkALtI/AAAAAAAANnM/5Ezo-4THbTE/s640/DSC_0748.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zNMSAK6OGDA/UDTuMFpHqlI/AAAAAAAANmU/yIvKa_U0ybE/s1600/DSC_0731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zNMSAK6OGDA/UDTuMFpHqlI/AAAAAAAANmU/yIvKa_U0ybE/s640/DSC_0731.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Here are some typical houses in Amsterdam<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KefUpifdNp0/UDTuTIk3DCI/AAAAAAAANmc/341vN4XYs4k/s1600/DSC_0736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KefUpifdNp0/UDTuTIk3DCI/AAAAAAAANmc/341vN4XYs4k/s640/DSC_0736.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And here is a house boat<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2IanYs8fZHs/UDTumV969dI/AAAAAAAANm0/AgnULeZvgpw/s1600/DSC_0743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2IanYs8fZHs/UDTumV969dI/AAAAAAAANm0/AgnULeZvgpw/s640/DSC_0743.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A typical boathouse </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDxlBz0qfp0/UDTurUwRO1I/AAAAAAAANm8/C1SCH2xE5n0/s1600/DSC_0746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CDxlBz0qfp0/UDTurUwRO1I/AAAAAAAANm8/C1SCH2xE5n0/s640/DSC_0746.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walk to the museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cD66RkauozU/UDTvDx2Aa3I/AAAAAAAANnU/ulPPleCPKgQ/s1600/DSC_0750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cD66RkauozU/UDTvDx2Aa3I/AAAAAAAANnU/ulPPleCPKgQ/s640/DSC_0750.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flower museum outside the Anne Frank's house </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a quick nap in the afternoon we decided to visit the <a href="http://www.annefrank.org/" target="_blank">Anne Frank's house</a>. Now if you are someone who had read the book "Anne Frank's Diary" you would understand the significance of this house. On the other hand if you are clueless and have never heard her name, I would recommend you go with an open mind. It's hard to understand what's so special about this <a href="http://www.annefrank.org/" target="_blank">house/museum</a>.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.annefrank.org/" target="_blank">house</a> immerses you into the struggle and pain of the war years. It's converted into a museum and you can walk through the rooms where for two years, eight Amsterdam Jews hid from the Nazi persecution. Tickets to the <a href="http://www.annefrank.org/" target="_blank">museum</a> are available online but you have to purchase them well in advance. if not you will have to stand in line which can take anywhere between 45 min - a few hours depending on the crowds. Each adult ticket costs 9.50 Euros.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--HF1jVso4Ys/UDTvGyGG4eI/AAAAAAAANnc/Bydk1jIM6FA/s1600/DSC_0753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--HF1jVso4Ys/UDTvGyGG4eI/AAAAAAAANnc/Bydk1jIM6FA/s640/DSC_0753.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">People sitting outside the Anne Frank's museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ynd38mDyJEQ/UDTvTV_RsAI/AAAAAAAANns/YYrJuTKmkXU/s1600/DSC_0756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ynd38mDyJEQ/UDTvTV_RsAI/AAAAAAAANns/YYrJuTKmkXU/s640/DSC_0756.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The line to get into the museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn0qdYsNZyo/UDTvY_n8ToI/AAAAAAAANn0/nBnSsInx248/s1600/DSC_0757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn0qdYsNZyo/UDTvY_n8ToI/AAAAAAAANn0/nBnSsInx248/s640/DSC_0757.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More line for the Anne Frank museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was very excited to visit the museum. Once inside, I quickly noticed how they have done a fantastic job at maintaining everything in it's original condition. The house is really narrow and the stairs are steep. You can wind your way in and out of the rooms. My heart skipped a beat when I reached the secret annex hidden behind a bookcase. I was in awe when I entered the annex and realized how small and narrow it was. 8 people cooped up here for 2 years in pitch darkness was unimaginable. The rooms were filled with pictures, sayings and memorabilia each one trying their best to transport you back into the the 1940s. It definitely was an emotional and a very heart touching tour for me.<br />
<br />
Located right next to the Anne Frank's museum is this landmark church - Westerkerk. It's famous because it houses Rembrandt's body somewhere under the pews and also has Amsterdam's tallest steeple. The interiors of the church are barren but the tower is open for tours for 6 people at a time. It's a beautiful church but we decided to skip it because the lines are really long.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GMWyYxdjm9s/UDTvdVOY02I/AAAAAAAANn8/t-ql5bLr1C0/s1600/DSC_0758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GMWyYxdjm9s/UDTvdVOY02I/AAAAAAAANn8/t-ql5bLr1C0/s640/DSC_0758.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Westerkerk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Walking around Amsterdam is a delight. One could just be entertained by purely walking around. Cafe's like this are all along the canals and buzzing with activity at various hours of the day. Evenings are the best, people are relaxed, happy and it feels like the entire town is enjoying themselves. All you need is a beer, some yummy fries and a seat to gaze around. It was just perfect!! </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-er6VJDhGkBU/UDTvjhP8iTI/AAAAAAAANoE/EZB3iP6mrJ4/s1600/DSC_0763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-er6VJDhGkBU/UDTvjhP8iTI/AAAAAAAANoE/EZB3iP6mrJ4/s640/DSC_0763.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful cafe on the canal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RyZb02KQdyw/UDTvvmeekTI/AAAAAAAANoU/uJYzEoCbUtc/s1600/DSC_0765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RyZb02KQdyw/UDTvvmeekTI/AAAAAAAANoU/uJYzEoCbUtc/s640/DSC_0765.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z25G86zKuYQ/UDTwFxgHjtI/AAAAAAAANo0/4m_InerZhR8/s1600/DSC_0788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z25G86zKuYQ/UDTwFxgHjtI/AAAAAAAANo0/4m_InerZhR8/s640/DSC_0788.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9aNbVTRM1FU/UDTwJDJ5NsI/AAAAAAAANo8/Bpcr2jAZITk/s1600/DSC_0794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9aNbVTRM1FU/UDTwJDJ5NsI/AAAAAAAANo8/Bpcr2jAZITk/s640/DSC_0794.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
For dinner we chose <a href="http://www.dereigeramsterdam.nl/" target="_blank">Cafe Restaurant de Reiger</a>. Famous for its fresh ingredients and delightful bistro ambience, served us one of the best meals on this trip. Read my review <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/cafe-restaurant-de-reiger-amsterdam#hrid:mQu56SuHNuDvtppIibhPeg" target="_blank">here</a>. It does get crowded in the evenings and on the weekend and it does not take reservations. The food however more than makes up for the wait. It's absolutely delicious!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fnb6fHmnZZM/UDTv4NUZcaI/AAAAAAAANok/w2cHgb7rLTg/s1600/DSC_0778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fnb6fHmnZZM/UDTv4NUZcaI/AAAAAAAANok/w2cHgb7rLTg/s640/DSC_0778.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An awesome restaurant </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0zZ2hpDE5c8/UDTv0kXVKyI/AAAAAAAANoc/SRPkrgUVzck/s1600/DSC_0770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0zZ2hpDE5c8/UDTv0kXVKyI/AAAAAAAANoc/SRPkrgUVzck/s640/DSC_0770.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved the table decor- simple and elegant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nmexCXhmjEg/UDTxFxz679I/AAAAAAAANqU/zQX4koSZTY8/s1600/IMG_2535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nmexCXhmjEg/UDTxFxz679I/AAAAAAAANqU/zQX4koSZTY8/s400/IMG_2535.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Started off with a crisp bread and olive tapenade</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLWoPXF4UPw/UDTxTeIS1NI/AAAAAAAANqk/fNOjzjoQRmQ/s1600/IMG_2540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lLWoPXF4UPw/UDTxTeIS1NI/AAAAAAAANqk/fNOjzjoQRmQ/s400/IMG_2540.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How cute are the wine carafe?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rQrPehYyBGg/UDTxbGre4ZI/AAAAAAAANqs/KSIO-Xfz3AA/s1600/IMG_2542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rQrPehYyBGg/UDTxbGre4ZI/AAAAAAAANqs/KSIO-Xfz3AA/s400/IMG_2542.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuna Tartare served in a sesame cornetto </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s_QyT7IrepQ/UDTxiH4FBpI/AAAAAAAANq0/_9ytlWPrMZ0/s1600/IMG_2543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s_QyT7IrepQ/UDTxiH4FBpI/AAAAAAAANq0/_9ytlWPrMZ0/s400/IMG_2543.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato Basil soup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gzopYSrj9L0/UDTxpceb43I/AAAAAAAANq8/HGVzmoXlHKI/s1600/IMG_2544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gzopYSrj9L0/UDTxpceb43I/AAAAAAAANq8/HGVzmoXlHKI/s400/IMG_2544.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Pasta - Excellent </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMpfx9TNars/UDTxwcCZ3uI/AAAAAAAANrE/6NL37dfXCtU/s1600/IMG_2545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fMpfx9TNars/UDTxwcCZ3uI/AAAAAAAANrE/6NL37dfXCtU/s400/IMG_2545.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burrata Salad </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NjKi8g0Z7fo/UDTx2_Uq-BI/AAAAAAAANrM/PP1h4XX-X3Q/s1600/IMG_2546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NjKi8g0Z7fo/UDTx2_Uq-BI/AAAAAAAANrM/PP1h4XX-X3Q/s400/IMG_2546.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">House Salad </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RH4My4lvBs/UDTyCetan8I/AAAAAAAANrc/mfKmjPam5Iw/s1600/IMG_2548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RH4My4lvBs/UDTyCetan8I/AAAAAAAANrc/mfKmjPam5Iw/s400/IMG_2548.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">French fries with mayo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YGzwiMZcuY/UDTyKfjk_zI/AAAAAAAANrk/oudtkpeZezQ/s1600/IMG_2549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YGzwiMZcuY/UDTyKfjk_zI/AAAAAAAANrk/oudtkpeZezQ/s400/IMG_2549.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Cheesecake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After an amazing day and two very satisfying meals we strolled around a bit more before heading back to our hotel. I was absolutely smitten by Amsterdam and could not wait to explore it more on Days 2 and 3. Next to come is the Van Gogh museum, the Red Light District and more. Stay tuned!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-32259405901002174352012-08-09T16:24:00.001-04:002012-08-09T17:06:09.337-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 4 - Paris, Day 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://shruti-k.blogspot.com/2012/07/europe-pit-stop-4-paris-day-1.html" target="_blank">Paris</a> in two days? Impossible!! I knew two days would not be enough to see the city so we didn't even try. I had created my priority list and stuck to the plan. I definitely wanted to see:<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://www.eiffel-tower.com/" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a><br />
2. <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a> (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Mona Lisa</a>)<br />
3. <a href="http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/-English-" target="_blank">Notre Dame Cathedral</a><br />
4. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Champs-%C3%89lys%C3%A9es" target="_blank">Champs-Elysees</a><br />
<br />
That's it, nothing more, nothing less! So we started day 2 (read about day 1 <a href="http://shruti-k.blogspot.com/2012/07/europe-pit-stop-4-paris-day-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>) with the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Champs-%C3%89lys%C3%A9es" target="_blank">Champs-Elysees</a>. Posed in front of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arc_de_Triomphe" target="_blank">Arc de Triumph</a> (The India Gate of France). Beautiful and imposing. Once we got our desired pictures with the Arc, we moved on.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLU-PlPe9sQ/UCQA1APkZkI/AAAAAAAANg4/UN3kdnZpsPI/s1600/DSC_0596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JLU-PlPe9sQ/UCQA1APkZkI/AAAAAAAANg4/UN3kdnZpsPI/s640/DSC_0596.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arc de Triumph</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZnOZyFdY1g/UCQA6Fm-cmI/AAAAAAAANhA/gqcf6ocyiDc/s1600/DSC_0612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dZnOZyFdY1g/UCQA6Fm-cmI/AAAAAAAANhA/gqcf6ocyiDc/s640/DSC_0612.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us at Arc de Triumph</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nkgGbH5gDQA/UCQA-oLAurI/AAAAAAAANhI/Du3wfKVgcag/s1600/DSC_0614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="502" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nkgGbH5gDQA/UCQA-oLAurI/AAAAAAAANhI/Du3wfKVgcag/s640/DSC_0614.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another one at the Arc de Triumph</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since we were in no hurry to get anywhere, we strolled the famous avenue and wondered what's so beautiful about it. It's crowded, commercialized and nothing like what it used to be in the olden times. It's lined with tonnes of stores and luckily for us each of them had a SALE :). The Avenue is one of the most famous streets in the world for upscale shopping. Traditionally it was home to popular brands like <a href="http://www.louisvuitton.com/front/#/eng_US/Homepage" target="_blank">Louis Vuitton</a>, <a href="http://www.hugoboss.com/de/en/collection.php" target="_blank">Hugo Boss</a>, Guerlain and more but now stores like Gap, Sephora, Zara, H&M, Bennetton etc. occupy most of its space.<br />
<br />
This is what it used to look like in the 1890s!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rMn5q9DhDmA/UCQEuIlDnYI/AAAAAAAANkA/B8kzfwBlzNI/s1600/Paris.champs.elysee1890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rMn5q9DhDmA/UCQEuIlDnYI/AAAAAAAANkA/B8kzfwBlzNI/s640/Paris.champs.elysee1890.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The avenue in 1890 - Source: Wikipedia.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is how it looks now, sigh!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rFu2wPdAdD4/UCQFAVjQUwI/AAAAAAAANkI/h1Yukp77j3s/s1600/800px-Champs-E%CC%81lyse%CC%81es_from_the_Arc_de_Triomphe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rFu2wPdAdD4/UCQFAVjQUwI/AAAAAAAANkI/h1Yukp77j3s/s640/800px-Champs-E%CC%81lyse%CC%81es_from_the_Arc_de_Triomphe.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Champs Elysees - Source: Wikipedia.com </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After spending almost the entire afternoon on the Avenue (blame it on the sales) I decided to make a quick trip to the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a> again, to pay my homage to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Miss Lisa</a>. So while Siddharth headed back to the hotel, I hopped on the subway and headed in the opposite direction.<br />
<br />
I had butterflies in my stomach, I was finally going to see the "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Mona Lisa</a>", not judging just going. Since I had only an hour I did not bother checking out any other section in the museum. I quickly bought the museum ticket (10 Euros) and the audio guide (which btw is extremely helpful, comes in seven languages and costs only 5 Euros) and scanned the large map for signs of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Mona Lisa</a>. I made my way to the Denon section (which is where the painting is). As I strolled through the corridor I was awestruck by large format Italian and French paintings. I was so engrossed in the beautiful paintings that I kept walking and reached the end of the corridor. Huh!!! Where is the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Mona Lisa</a>?? Only then did I realize that I had left her far behind and traced my steps back.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuaAK-ZMN1A/UCQBC_z8CYI/AAAAAAAANhQ/QwesH1mPLBk/s1600/DSC_0624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KuaAK-ZMN1A/UCQBC_z8CYI/AAAAAAAANhQ/QwesH1mPLBk/s640/DSC_0624.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denon section of the museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR2CABF1opY/UCQBK4DWe6I/AAAAAAAANhY/sl68xlnjUaE/s1600/DSC_0631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qR2CABF1opY/UCQBK4DWe6I/AAAAAAAANhY/sl68xlnjUaE/s640/DSC_0631.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful ceilings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-apwwBN26_BE/UCQBR1IMvVI/AAAAAAAANhg/OBt4GnLjm8E/s1600/DSC_0632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-apwwBN26_BE/UCQBR1IMvVI/AAAAAAAANhg/OBt4GnLjm8E/s640/DSC_0632.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another look at the beautiful ceilings </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1fHjk8q34ys/UCQBZAJoK3I/AAAAAAAANho/Je9TCSihdzg/s1600/DSC_0638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1fHjk8q34ys/UCQBZAJoK3I/AAAAAAAANho/Je9TCSihdzg/s640/DSC_0638.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Tucked in the hallway was a small room with a large crowd, I instantly knew why!! There she was, in a small frame, smiling and greeting all. I am guessing, almost everyone who visits the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a> wants to see the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Mona Lisa</a>. It's undeniably the greatest attraction in the Louvre and about <a href="http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_many_people_view_the_Mona_Lisa_painting_in_the_Louvre" target="_blank">6 million</a> people view the painting annually. I elbowed my way to the front and stood staring at it. The audio does a decent job of explaining the painting but leaves you wanting for more. While I admired the painting, I could not help but ask myself "So what's so special about it? ". I took one last look and walked out towards the exit. Apparently, the painting is assessed at approximately <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">$720 million</a> (adjusted for inflation) in 2010.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0U9CInK-GRY/UCQf24SUfII/AAAAAAAANk8/D9GoqOGWhpA/s1600/DSC_0644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="638" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0U9CInK-GRY/UCQf24SUfII/AAAAAAAANk8/D9GoqOGWhpA/s640/DSC_0644.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mona Lisa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KyoGBXAKZlE/UCQBiHnvO2I/AAAAAAAANh4/YKAg2SmFec0/s1600/DSC_0647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KyoGBXAKZlE/UCQBiHnvO2I/AAAAAAAANh4/YKAg2SmFec0/s640/DSC_0647.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The crowd checking out the Mona Lisa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was 9 pm and the sun was about to set. The <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a> bathed in golden light and I captured it some more before heading back for the grand finale of our trip.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppbNbZdE6no/UCQBouh47XI/AAAAAAAANiA/KT2NvhSRp54/s1600/DSC_0663.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ppbNbZdE6no/UCQBouh47XI/AAAAAAAANiA/KT2NvhSRp54/s640/DSC_0663.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pyramid at Louvre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQLqZI-uSdY/UCQBu6q9C0I/AAAAAAAANiI/NzdDS9CzWLY/s1600/DSC_0665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQLqZI-uSdY/UCQBu6q9C0I/AAAAAAAANiI/NzdDS9CzWLY/s640/DSC_0665.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louvre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-drBFQUjpoNw/UCQB0w0kWoI/AAAAAAAANiQ/LL4bsJps514/s1600/DSC_0666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-drBFQUjpoNw/UCQB0w0kWoI/AAAAAAAANiQ/LL4bsJps514/s640/DSC_0666.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louvre</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn25pF0l8QA/UCQB6QwnwPI/AAAAAAAANiY/vmo30wZTIvY/s1600/DSC_0671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn25pF0l8QA/UCQB6QwnwPI/AAAAAAAANiY/vmo30wZTIvY/s640/DSC_0671.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcijPC7MXis/UCQB_spOWdI/AAAAAAAANig/_o9KL6HArEY/s1600/DSC_0674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcijPC7MXis/UCQB_spOWdI/AAAAAAAANig/_o9KL6HArEY/s640/DSC_0674.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I had a date with Siddharth at 9:45pm at the <a href="http://www.eiffel-tower.com/" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower.</a> We stood in line for an hour to go up the tower. Btw the tower looks gorgeous in the night and both of us were super excited to go to the top. Here's a tip, you can skip the line by buying the tickets <a href="http://ticket.toureiffel.fr/index-css5-sete-pg1-lgen.html" target="_blank">online</a>. It will save you tonnes of time but the ticket is almost double the price (14 Euros online vs 8.50 Euros onsite). Had I known about it I would have totally opted for the online version. Here are some pictures while waiting in line!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fzs2oj_tJUo/UCQCLNONx_I/AAAAAAAANiw/rrNVL7AOlCw/s1600/DSC_0686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fzs2oj_tJUo/UCQCLNONx_I/AAAAAAAANiw/rrNVL7AOlCw/s640/DSC_0686.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eiffel Tower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kHgpn0UeEo8/UCQCTvamiII/AAAAAAAANi4/ohflyoTauhM/s1600/DSC_0694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kHgpn0UeEo8/UCQCTvamiII/AAAAAAAANi4/ohflyoTauhM/s640/DSC_0694.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oueXvbkX9fA/UCQCazxvhCI/AAAAAAAANjA/eQ1cMQu4K4A/s1600/DSC_0695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oueXvbkX9fA/UCQCazxvhCI/AAAAAAAANjA/eQ1cMQu4K4A/s640/DSC_0695.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6AjrILaL4ek/UCQCggWFQGI/AAAAAAAANjI/pF08VZBIgOc/s1600/DSC_0697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6AjrILaL4ek/UCQCggWFQGI/AAAAAAAANjI/pF08VZBIgOc/s640/DSC_0697.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
The views of the city from the second floor of the tower were spectacular. There was a gentle pitter patter of raindrops falling on our faces while we enjoyed this beautiful moment. It was absolutely breath taking and worth the wait. Unfortunately due to a technical problem the lifts were only going up to the second floor - the centre of the tower (another reason why you should not wait till the last minute before closing). Nonetheless we enjoyed every bit of it!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoIl8oL6lfw/UCQCjctWDDI/AAAAAAAANjQ/esEvGAzPms8/s1600/DSC_0698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoIl8oL6lfw/UCQCjctWDDI/AAAAAAAANjQ/esEvGAzPms8/s640/DSC_0698.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views of the city from the tower deck</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pFtr4F_wPIs/UCQCmRInAjI/AAAAAAAANjY/8hHfWwgZ97s/s1600/DSC_0702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pFtr4F_wPIs/UCQCmRInAjI/AAAAAAAANjY/8hHfWwgZ97s/s640/DSC_0702.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views of the city from the second floor of the tower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-39L-lGnWAso/UCQCwc7MhDI/AAAAAAAANjo/bKx6szLB4YA/s1600/DSC_0711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-39L-lGnWAso/UCQCwc7MhDI/AAAAAAAANjo/bKx6szLB4YA/s640/DSC_0711.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kR4tVGGKnfY/UCQCzfWpcpI/AAAAAAAANjw/ld3h5bGTrFE/s1600/DSC_0716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kR4tVGGKnfY/UCQCzfWpcpI/AAAAAAAANjw/ld3h5bGTrFE/s640/DSC_0716.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here we are enjoying the moment!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOinUZIKSic/UCQC0DyuK-I/AAAAAAAANj4/JZfLgoV4IVo/s1600/IMG_2514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OOinUZIKSic/UCQC0DyuK-I/AAAAAAAANj4/JZfLgoV4IVo/s640/IMG_2514.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span>The journey down was even more exciting as we decided to take the stairs. 704 freaking steps is what we took all the way down to the bottom. My legs were shivering but my heart racing with happiness at this wonderful experience. Holding each others hands we walked back to the hotel and as I turned my head to take another look I saw it sparkle one more time!!</span><br />
<span><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw1RN2I37pQGiqMBJAfRu_Y0oj4pvkMLgnCf9Q4IHgh_Bt3nlx1_FoNk3nJ5w0A9PD4puoRTucajbUfJLeXNQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div>
<span><br /></span></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-52724871607311840212012-07-27T13:43:00.002-04:002012-07-27T18:33:29.115-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 4 - Paris, Day 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px;"><i>“A walk about Paris will provide lessons in history, beauty, and in the point of Life.” </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><span style="line-height: 20px;">― </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1673.Thomas_Jefferson" style="line-height: 20px; text-decoration: none;">Thomas Jefferson</a></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was extremely excited to get to Paris. So on day four we bid farewell to Belgium, hopped on the <a href="http://www.thalys.com/" target="_blank">Thalys</a> and sped to the gorgeous city of Paris. The 30 minute cab ride from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gare_du_Nord" target="_blank">Paris station</a> to our <a href="http://www.pullmanhotels.com/gb/hotel-7229-pullman-paris-tour-eiffel/index.shtml" target="_blank">hotel </a>was exhilarating. I was hanging on to the cab window with starry eyes oohing and aahing at each building we passed by. Such beautiful architechture..sigh!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had picked a hotel which was a block from the <a href="http://www.eiffel-tower.com/" target="_blank">Eiffer Tower</a>, so I had plenty of day/night views of the tower. In french they call it the <a href="http://www.eiffel-tower.com/" target="_blank">Tour Eiffel</a>. I could hardly resist my excitement and as soon as we checked into our rooms I was ready to check out and walk the streets of this beautiful city.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We decided to first visit the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a> and bought the 2 day all inclusive subway pass. Here is a glimpse of one of the subway station, so charming and old school. The trains are small and very basic. The doors are not automatic so you actually have to flip the handle to open the door. Since the train is not air conditioned the windows are cracked open and you can feel a rush of air on your face as the train speeds by.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On our first trip on the subway I was having fun listening to the french pronounce each station. The pronunciation was so different that I decided to keep my mouth shut and just keep my ears open :)</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yPb8IdQEH0Q/T_xnhwnQOKI/AAAAAAAANUc/otcsN7ppajs/s1600/DSC_0304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yPb8IdQEH0Q/T_xnhwnQOKI/AAAAAAAANUc/otcsN7ppajs/s640/DSC_0304.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjtvJF9v-hM/UBK0Ex0M35I/AAAAAAAANdA/ULQoJ1ogtR8/s1600/DSC_0307.NEF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjtvJF9v-hM/UBK0Ex0M35I/AAAAAAAANdA/ULQoJ1ogtR8/s640/DSC_0307.NEF" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A 20 minute train ride and we were at the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a>. <span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">The </span><b style="line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Musée du Louvre</a></b></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </span><span style="line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">is one of the world's largest and most visited museums. The museum is housed in the Louvre Palace, built in the 12th century and is a must visit for all art lovers. </span></span>Unfortunately for us, the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a>was closed on Tuesdays. I was disappointed but Siddharth was beaming with joy. For a guy what could be better, he (the guy) came with me (the wife) to see the museum - (the wife is happy because you accompanied her) but unluckily since the museum was closed he (the guy) did not have to go through the torture. Perfect scenario!! So we just walked up and out and took some pictures of the magnificent museum. I decided to come back for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mona_Lisa" target="_blank">Mona Lisa</a> the next day. Here is the 1st glimpse of the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-swmd0M3BzIM/T_xnokpwQ4I/AAAAAAAANUk/AVJaGMXXefU/s1600/DSC_0316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-swmd0M3BzIM/T_xnokpwQ4I/AAAAAAAANUk/AVJaGMXXefU/s640/DSC_0316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8n4n8-B6M58/T_xnwCm7UhI/AAAAAAAANUs/00LIhBpezCc/s1600/DSC_0336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8n4n8-B6M58/T_xnwCm7UhI/AAAAAAAANUs/00LIhBpezCc/s640/DSC_0336.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can enter or exit the museum from here. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We just walked around absorbing every bit of this beautiful architecture. Did some posing sessions. Marveled at the enormity of it and just stood staring it in amazement.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wg6muUqsOzc/T_xn3kC4EII/AAAAAAAANU0/pSFTgdR7_e8/s1600/DSC_0339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wg6muUqsOzc/T_xn3kC4EII/AAAAAAAANU0/pSFTgdR7_e8/s640/DSC_0339.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pg0pzviR7m8/T_xn-CwgLjI/AAAAAAAANU8/Xj_15ca3zzE/s1600/DSC_0345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pg0pzviR7m8/T_xn-CwgLjI/AAAAAAAANU8/Xj_15ca3zzE/s640/DSC_0345.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vOyHHrHx0Sg/T_xoGdIjtrI/AAAAAAAANVE/O4ha5c5AN9Q/s1600/DSC_0347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vOyHHrHx0Sg/T_xoGdIjtrI/AAAAAAAANVE/O4ha5c5AN9Q/s640/DSC_0347.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Sine the museum was closed we were done with the <a href="http://www.louvre.fr/en" target="_blank">Louvre</a> trip in 30 minutes, next on our list - The <a href="http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/-English-" target="_blank">Notre Dame Cathedral</a>. You can either take the subway or just walk to the cathedral. We decided to walk which was an excellent idea. After a 25 minute stroll, across the bridge stood the beautiful cathedral in all its glory. I was just awe struck by its beauty. I just stood there staring at this exquisite structure wondering how on earth is it humanly possible to make something so intricate and beautiful?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBw9WGXBZ9A/T_xoax2O4lI/AAAAAAAANVc/N6eB7JJlMTE/s1600/DSC_0377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBw9WGXBZ9A/T_xoax2O4lI/AAAAAAAANVc/N6eB7JJlMTE/s640/DSC_0377.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QpZkwObEXS0/UBK0sskghHI/AAAAAAAANdY/GJq4aWMfzco/s1600/DSC_0384.NEF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QpZkwObEXS0/UBK0sskghHI/AAAAAAAANdY/GJq4aWMfzco/s640/DSC_0384.NEF" width="640" /></a></div>
Notre Dame Cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can see, the line to enter the cathedral was serpentine. Of course Siddharth refused to stand in line and I had to beg and plead!! Luckily for him the line moved pretty quickly and we were in the cathedral in less than 15 minutes.I must admit this by far has been one of the most beautiful cathedrals I have seen in my life. Here are some pictures:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkYXOtY3OXE/T_xojn9NgcI/AAAAAAAANVk/-eOp_0xZ8X0/s1600/DSC_0395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkYXOtY3OXE/T_xojn9NgcI/AAAAAAAANVk/-eOp_0xZ8X0/s640/DSC_0395.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appearances of the risen Christ</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IhIYLDiRc7A/UBKzqCNlyoI/AAAAAAAANcw/gv55KMnbxhM/s1600/DSC_0386.NEF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IhIYLDiRc7A/UBKzqCNlyoI/AAAAAAAANcw/gv55KMnbxhM/s640/DSC_0386.NEF" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siddharth lights a candle for us</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vnYdzMvG9PM/UBK07a10WVI/AAAAAAAANdg/peejSIEhS_A/s1600/DSC_0406.NEF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vnYdzMvG9PM/UBK07a10WVI/AAAAAAAANdg/peejSIEhS_A/s640/DSC_0406.NEF" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Stain glass windows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NC7QwlP2E7c/T_xoxjiSlzI/AAAAAAAANVs/hFWEpxumEeo/s1600/DSC_0415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NC7QwlP2E7c/T_xoxjiSlzI/AAAAAAAANVs/hFWEpxumEeo/s640/DSC_0415.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside the cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6kVL4Hf4WKs/T_xo8JaNOSI/AAAAAAAANV0/Y01cUR4fXyo/s1600/DSC_0423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6kVL4Hf4WKs/T_xo8JaNOSI/AAAAAAAANV0/Y01cUR4fXyo/s640/DSC_0423.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful arches inside the cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The best part about Paris is you don't have to go to specific spots to enjoy the city, just walk around and it's magical. There is romance in the air, streets are lined with cafes, people are hustling and bustling and everything looks so charming. After visiting the cathedral we strolled back and hung out a bit on this bridge (over the Seine river) just admiring the beautiful views all around.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qv2JHhEDtEs/T_xoM7O3cbI/AAAAAAAANVM/p4JnhP1zsoA/s1600/DSC_0364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qv2JHhEDtEs/T_xoM7O3cbI/AAAAAAAANVM/p4JnhP1zsoA/s640/DSC_0364.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge over the River Seine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q28r3VRX2x4/T_xoUjgTc3I/AAAAAAAANVU/bNhlkDNUsY0/s1600/DSC_0368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q28r3VRX2x4/T_xoUjgTc3I/AAAAAAAANVU/bNhlkDNUsY0/s640/DSC_0368.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Seine Cruise</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_A2n0eI4TUo/T_xpCCne9RI/AAAAAAAANV8/gFWqyUUZfqk/s1600/DSC_0456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_A2n0eI4TUo/T_xpCCne9RI/AAAAAAAANV8/gFWqyUUZfqk/s640/DSC_0456.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A man creating big bubbles on the bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bfJXa6r990Y/T_xpJlmxLAI/AAAAAAAANWE/241J1Gav0Rg/s1600/DSC_0459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bfJXa6r990Y/T_xpJlmxLAI/AAAAAAAANWE/241J1Gav0Rg/s640/DSC_0459.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q3TVmYgIMjM/T_xpRdbW_-I/AAAAAAAANWM/Xy7aYtlMos4/s1600/DSC_0495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q3TVmYgIMjM/T_xpRdbW_-I/AAAAAAAANWM/Xy7aYtlMos4/s640/DSC_0495.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxWAYIYgTm8/T_xpZD51gPI/AAAAAAAANWU/z4Vxphs3Er8/s1600/DSC_0496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxWAYIYgTm8/T_xpZD51gPI/AAAAAAAANWU/z4Vxphs3Er8/s640/DSC_0496.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UkCyvkCSIk4/T_xpe1LjlxI/AAAAAAAANWc/P3jMuAiYtb0/s1600/DSC_0499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UkCyvkCSIk4/T_xpe1LjlxI/AAAAAAAANWc/P3jMuAiYtb0/s640/DSC_0499.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YT2Akma5Esk/T_xpnWLXmbI/AAAAAAAANWk/DdVBxqu_oYI/s1600/DSC_0510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YT2Akma5Esk/T_xpnWLXmbI/AAAAAAAANWk/DdVBxqu_oYI/s640/DSC_0510.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In the evening we had tickets for the <a href="http://www.moulinrouge.fr/index_gb.php" target="_blank">Moulin Rouge</a> show. I had bought online tickets to show the day we decided we were going to Paris. I am glad I did because I LOVED the show!! The <a href="http://www.moulinrouge.fr/index_gb.php" target="_blank">Moulin Rouge</a> is a cabaret in Paris and is best known as the birthplace of modern can-can dance. Now I love dancing and music and despite all the bad reviews I had read, I was adamant that I wanted to see this one. Yes there is some nudity but it's all presented in a very creative and beautiful way. Moreover we are all adults and it's nothing that one cannot handle. The costumes are GORGEOUS, bright and so full of life. The performances were spectacular. There was light, music, dance, singing, costumes, bling and super high energy. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The performers filling-in between the shows were extremely talented and it was a delight to watch them perform. There were jugglers, skaters, dancers, it was truly an entertaining evening. The only disappointing thing about the show was that the hall was packed like a can of sardines. They seat you on tables which you share with other people. You can choose tickets with dinner/champagne or none of the above. They really do cram you up and each table is packed. Luckily for us, we were seated last and had only one other couple on our table. That was the only thing that I did not like about the show. The show is a big THUMBS UP from my side. If you enjoy music, dance, singing, costumes and performers this is a must see.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LBVDT9EhNTE/T_xraTsRHjI/AAAAAAAANYU/h_hXzLWv9dI/s1600/IMG_2475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LBVDT9EhNTE/T_xraTsRHjI/AAAAAAAANYU/h_hXzLWv9dI/s640/IMG_2475.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJxJPOWsx1Q/T_xrSVscdxI/AAAAAAAANYM/UzqUXB8T9rg/s1600/IMG_2474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJxJPOWsx1Q/T_xrSVscdxI/AAAAAAAANYM/UzqUXB8T9rg/s640/IMG_2474.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I walked out of the show buzzed, happy and mesmerized :) People were waiting in a long queue for the next show at 10pm. Everyone was out on the streets, the mood was festive. We decided to walk around and ended up at this crepe stand. Within minutes we discovered the guy making crepes was from Bangladesh and spoke Hindi. What do you know next..we are eating the yummiest crepes everrrrrr!!! They were cheap, delicious and made with love. Thank you!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tkr-IiyaqGk/UBMV4NDWrGI/AAAAAAAANgI/04Nui-R8LEY/s1600/IMG_2489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tkr-IiyaqGk/UBMV4NDWrGI/AAAAAAAANgI/04Nui-R8LEY/s640/IMG_2489.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yBm_LmUIW-0/UBLGY4o5D_I/AAAAAAAANeY/5E8yDUQixco/s1600/IMG_2482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yBm_LmUIW-0/UBLGY4o5D_I/AAAAAAAANeY/5E8yDUQixco/s640/IMG_2482.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wHtR4SLzoeg/UBLGdZU-98I/AAAAAAAANeg/mDaaZEHyrjg/s1600/IMG_2483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wHtR4SLzoeg/UBLGdZU-98I/AAAAAAAANeg/mDaaZEHyrjg/s640/IMG_2483.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nutella and Banana<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDAKqmOESB8/UBLGnBTc8iI/AAAAAAAANew/0ZT9LtYMvyc/s1600/IMG_2485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDAKqmOESB8/UBLGnBTc8iI/AAAAAAAANew/0ZT9LtYMvyc/s640/IMG_2485.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
You can see his enthusiasm for making a crepe for us...the amount of cheese was insane.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rictTm3DQ5U/UBLGxFFyJGI/AAAAAAAANfA/6kjeTGYZllY/s1600/IMG_2487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rictTm3DQ5U/UBLGxFFyJGI/AAAAAAAANfA/6kjeTGYZllY/s640/IMG_2487.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i--RzJ3CHA0/UBLG0134akI/AAAAAAAANfI/1xKdj-g5qRg/s1600/IMG_2488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i--RzJ3CHA0/UBLG0134akI/AAAAAAAANfI/1xKdj-g5qRg/s640/IMG_2488.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicken, cheese and mushroom crepe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The best part about walking in Paris is when you get tired you just hop into a taxi and worry no more. There are taxi stands all over the city and if you want to hail a cab just go to one of these stands and they will be waiting for you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UYtlnKS0nRA/UBLG_bGmhWI/AAAAAAAANfY/fjvtSJX1Ayc/s1600/IMG_2494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UYtlnKS0nRA/UBLG_bGmhWI/AAAAAAAANfY/fjvtSJX1Ayc/s640/IMG_2494.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It was 11:45pm when we got back to our room. I had still not visited the <a href="http://www.eiffel-tower.com/" target="_blank">Eiffel tower</a>. It stood there like a golden statue inviting me over. So I picked up my camera, all my lenses and walked over. Ain't it just gorgeous?? The next 45 minutes just flew by. I clicked and clicked some more...wanted to capture every angle, every nook, every corner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zOkgLxYfTx8/T_xpvtyw3BI/AAAAAAAANWs/EadTwOpHAxY/s1600/DSC_0560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zOkgLxYfTx8/T_xpvtyw3BI/AAAAAAAANWs/EadTwOpHAxY/s640/DSC_0560.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">After sunset, the <a href="http://www.eiffel-tower.com/" target="_blank">Eiffel tower</a> sparkles and bathes in golden light to welcome its night time visitors and offers a breathtaking view of the Paris lights. </span></span>It was magical and after witnessing this, I just fell in love. What an amazing moment! I came to my room and slept with a smile on my face dreaming about day 2!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzlfj6HQAm1jPp72QbD_8dxOJ0FFwnw24O_yFgvCT9ghmnjHuc8to9-e1MaNkGUdBdvgbK4C9fafLAW4PSc' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-84828850008545301692012-07-16T17:58:00.000-04:002013-03-01T15:36:44.047-05:00Europe - Pit Stop 3 - Brussels, Belgium<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After the beautiful cities of Ghent and Bruges our next pit stop was Brussels. The capital of Belgium is also the headquarters of NATO and is generally low on great sights but high on ambience. A day and night would be enough here but if you decide to stay longer there are plenty of things to do. The main reason people visit Brussels - the Grand Place.<br />
<br />
We bid our goodbyes to Ghent and around noon hopped on to a van to catch the next train to Brussels. The cab ride was so comfortable that five minutes into the journey we wondered if the driver would be willing to drive us all the way to Brussels. A few minutes of negotiation and finally he agreed to do the job :) I love spontaneous plans!!<br />
<br />
After checking into our hotel - Novotel Brussels (read my review <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g188644-d232022-r134099477-Novotel_Brussels_Centre-Brussels.html" target="_blank">here</a>) we headed directly for the Grand Place. While walking through the market we made a quick stop at this waffles place selling delicious waffles for 3 Euros. Take a look at these, who can ignore these scrumptious monsters. Hot and fresh waffles, I gorged on a banana and Nutella waffle. It was amazing, had the perfect crunch, texture and flavor. It was better than the best. I quickly decided to go for a second one!!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vCINSIfL_Uc/T_xgvMCV0bI/AAAAAAAANQw/LcV541oca2Q/s1600/DSC_0191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vCINSIfL_Uc/T_xgvMCV0bI/AAAAAAAANQw/LcV541oca2Q/s640/DSC_0191.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy Waffles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wBMpW5QRrko/T_xg02ybKZI/AAAAAAAANQ4/0ibOJbfLw7E/s1600/DSC_0193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="459" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wBMpW5QRrko/T_xg02ybKZI/AAAAAAAANQ4/0ibOJbfLw7E/s640/DSC_0193.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The waffle stand</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After a 10 minutes walk we found ourselves standing in Brussel's main square called the Grand Place. It is the heart of the town and the greatest sight. Historically this was where farmers and merchants sold their goods in open-air stalls. Today the square is surrounded by shops and cafes selling chocolates, gaufres (waffles), beer, mussels, fries, lace and flowers. My first impression was WOW!!!<br />
<br />
The main building dominating the square is the Town Hall (below). It has a 300 foot tall tower with a golden statue of St. Michael slaying a devil. We decided not to go inside.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKVjkVfzZbU/T_xh4TWCDQI/AAAAAAAANRw/ZnQEb9HpsXw/s1600/DSC_0237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QKVjkVfzZbU/T_xh4TWCDQI/AAAAAAAANRw/ZnQEb9HpsXw/s640/DSC_0237.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town Hall </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGTH5vcOJW0/T_xg_Jn0ThI/AAAAAAAANRA/oEyE0Nsc9dA/s1600/DSC_0204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BGTH5vcOJW0/T_xg_Jn0ThI/AAAAAAAANRA/oEyE0Nsc9dA/s640/DSC_0204.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town Hall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MhE8NEvjjoU/T_xhc-A5ygI/AAAAAAAANRY/7CU0AUNaFZ0/s1600/DSC_0227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MhE8NEvjjoU/T_xhc-A5ygI/AAAAAAAANRY/7CU0AUNaFZ0/s640/DSC_0227.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town Hall </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_xqVYI1Q2Nk/T_xhIWk9NlI/AAAAAAAANRI/cNVkzVhNkzs/s1600/DSC_0223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_xqVYI1Q2Nk/T_xhIWk9NlI/AAAAAAAANRI/cNVkzVhNkzs/s640/DSC_0223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These smaller buildings are the former guild halls (now mostly shops and restaurants). They were once the home offices for town's different professionals.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2JoXUXMgHIk/T_xhWcRfKBI/AAAAAAAANRQ/2C2SrkOqDkw/s1600/DSC_0225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2JoXUXMgHIk/T_xhWcRfKBI/AAAAAAAANRQ/2C2SrkOqDkw/s640/DSC_0225.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guild Halls </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I4ZCom1v10o/T_xhvm9yCiI/AAAAAAAANRo/y9p4RtUrSN8/s1600/DSC_0232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I4ZCom1v10o/T_xhvm9yCiI/AAAAAAAANRo/y9p4RtUrSN8/s640/DSC_0232.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guild Halls </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Right opposite the town Hall is the Kings's House (Maison di Roi). It was used by the kings not as a house but an administrative centre. There is a City museum inside the house, we skipped it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGrM5ySu1Kk/T_xhlS9MOGI/AAAAAAAANRg/jD6hF2baoAs/s1600/DSC_0231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGrM5ySu1Kk/T_xhlS9MOGI/AAAAAAAANRg/jD6hF2baoAs/s640/DSC_0231.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King's House</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oxmNFb6CW_w/T_xiCQMR53I/AAAAAAAANR4/8U0opuRtNUI/s1600/DSC_0238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="419" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oxmNFb6CW_w/T_xiCQMR53I/AAAAAAAANR4/8U0opuRtNUI/s640/DSC_0238.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town Hall </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After spending a few minutes at the Grand Place we decided to walk around the city. Unfortunately it was a Monday and all the museums were closed. While walking around we came across this beautiful church.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RGUqieY8CYY/T_xiY5rMY9I/AAAAAAAANSI/EWXTftpsO7c/s1600/DSC_0250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RGUqieY8CYY/T_xiY5rMY9I/AAAAAAAANSI/EWXTftpsO7c/s640/DSC_0250.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
In the evening we had fabulous dinner at this small, quant restaurant called Sainte-Catherine. It was the BEST meal in Belgium so far. I'm just going to leave you with some pictures of the scrumptious meal.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uvr_H1a9zko/UASIjrQbDgI/AAAAAAAANbI/n-CUZtdTGnE/s1600/IMG_2460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uvr_H1a9zko/UASIjrQbDgI/AAAAAAAANbI/n-CUZtdTGnE/s640/IMG_2460.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prawns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2wazX7k5AfQ/UASIo5rS40I/AAAAAAAANbQ/grDRDmwKQHU/s1600/IMG_2461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2wazX7k5AfQ/UASIo5rS40I/AAAAAAAANbQ/grDRDmwKQHU/s640/IMG_2461.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious french fries</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cwl32LZY0-c/UASIuIDSWWI/AAAAAAAANbY/NzuZ20q5jiU/s1600/IMG_2462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cwl32LZY0-c/UASIuIDSWWI/AAAAAAAANbY/NzuZ20q5jiU/s640/IMG_2462.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0NtKann3c4/UASIzpXHpYI/AAAAAAAANbg/VaAxWUtCWVU/s1600/IMG_2463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0NtKann3c4/UASIzpXHpYI/AAAAAAAANbg/VaAxWUtCWVU/s640/IMG_2463.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monkfish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k5szGBLKqfE/UASI6d-Q5mI/AAAAAAAANbo/FsPgTADvFKQ/s1600/IMG_2464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k5szGBLKqfE/UASI6d-Q5mI/AAAAAAAANbo/FsPgTADvFKQ/s640/IMG_2464.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed and herbed veggies </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3G_qJPfWwks/UASI_VZglMI/AAAAAAAANbw/Qhud40-lYFo/s1600/IMG_2465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3G_qJPfWwks/UASI_VZglMI/AAAAAAAANbw/Qhud40-lYFo/s640/IMG_2465.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steak </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LEYglNCOl5o/UASJGpg7TQI/AAAAAAAANb4/Tmjvin18IGY/s1600/IMG_2466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LEYglNCOl5o/UASJGpg7TQI/AAAAAAAANb4/Tmjvin18IGY/s640/IMG_2466.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gk-g2BJbpzQ/UASJelmfdXI/AAAAAAAANcA/kigYUNgTtJ0/s1600/IMG_2467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gk-g2BJbpzQ/UASJelmfdXI/AAAAAAAANcA/kigYUNgTtJ0/s640/IMG_2467.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate Mousse<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After a truly amazing meal, my friend and I decided to take a stroll and go back to the Grand Place. The sun had just set in (it was probably 10 pm) and the lighting was perfect, I wanted to capture those beautiful monuments all lit up. I am so glad we went back. The square was buzzing with hundreds of people. The air was festive and everyone was just having a good time. They were preparing the place for an event the next day so there was much excitement all around. For the one last time, I present to you yet again, the Grand Place. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xcSEil8cvWw/T_xieCIbVpI/AAAAAAAANSQ/DRfgenepiew/s1600/DSC_0273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xcSEil8cvWw/T_xieCIbVpI/AAAAAAAANSQ/DRfgenepiew/s640/DSC_0273.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town Hall </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5AjaiCdJxYk/T_xilv6i6OI/AAAAAAAANSY/LA7L2aTn9gk/s1600/DSC_0277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5AjaiCdJxYk/T_xilv6i6OI/AAAAAAAANSY/LA7L2aTn9gk/s640/DSC_0277.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The square </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRUJPfP1xBU/T_xiusEWzjI/AAAAAAAANSg/vacUUIi5X_Y/s1600/DSC_0286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRUJPfP1xBU/T_xiusEWzjI/AAAAAAAANSg/vacUUIi5X_Y/s640/DSC_0286.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9CLab3YRIvM/T_xi2ld4lEI/AAAAAAAANSo/TGPWa06K2DQ/s1600/DSC_0287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9CLab3YRIvM/T_xi2ld4lEI/AAAAAAAANSo/TGPWa06K2DQ/s640/DSC_0287.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_r0Bz8xerQQ/T_xi_DYjKbI/AAAAAAAANSw/t0dxVZSsiJQ/s1600/DSC_0291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_r0Bz8xerQQ/T_xi_DYjKbI/AAAAAAAANSw/t0dxVZSsiJQ/s640/DSC_0291.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMx8xLE_o5U/T_xjFLxfE6I/AAAAAAAANS4/c4Get6-W_5A/s1600/DSC_0294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uMx8xLE_o5U/T_xjFLxfE6I/AAAAAAAANS4/c4Get6-W_5A/s640/DSC_0294.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6pzpAU5TwLc/T_xjMe-_-uI/AAAAAAAANTA/P7_JYzsy7Zg/s1600/DSC_0299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6pzpAU5TwLc/T_xjMe-_-uI/AAAAAAAANTA/P7_JYzsy7Zg/s640/DSC_0299.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-83964538440302022612012-07-11T14:04:00.000-04:002012-07-11T21:12:14.460-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 2 - Bruges, Belgium<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Day 2 in Belgium - After a scrumptious breakfast of waffles, fresh fruits, coffee and eggs we headed out for the touristy town of Bruges. The town is Brugge in flemish and Bruges in french and english. It's a 20 minute train ride from Ghent. It's a well preserved Gothic city and prospers mainly because of tourism. It's prefect for a day trip or you can even spend a night or two.<br />
<br />
We visited Bruges on a sunday. Once you reach the main train station, you can either walk to the Market square (20 mins) or take any of the buses marked as <i>Centrum</i>. We were 4 of us and we chose to walk. We passed through a huge flea market selling all kind of goods. I was struck by the number of vendors at this beautiful and colorful market. If you are doing a day trip, here are some recommendations on what to see/do:<br />
<br />
Walk around the flea market on Sunday, it has a great selection of vintage goods/furniture and new items.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZgr1sEiSTQ/T_xceGOOjuI/AAAAAAAANOM/LWOaYdGAqQg/s1600/DSC_0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eZgr1sEiSTQ/T_xceGOOjuI/AAAAAAAANOM/LWOaYdGAqQg/s640/DSC_0033.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flea market on a Sunday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1gRcKyVahhE/T_xckLL_AVI/AAAAAAAANOU/EIRhFg5Jn7A/s1600/DSC_0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1gRcKyVahhE/T_xckLL_AVI/AAAAAAAANOU/EIRhFg5Jn7A/s640/DSC_0037.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Colorful houses</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lc_Y3JTjIYg/T_xcsh0ZLpI/AAAAAAAANOg/nz7G0Osy6nE/s1600/DSC_0047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lc_Y3JTjIYg/T_xcsh0ZLpI/AAAAAAAANOg/nz7G0Osy6nE/s640/DSC_0047.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z19rcF1x9zM/T_xc2s78J5I/AAAAAAAANOo/7bmkojg6AwM/s1600/DSC_0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z19rcF1x9zM/T_xc2s78J5I/AAAAAAAANOo/7bmkojg6AwM/s640/DSC_0061.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Ride a bike around the city or take a horse-buggy tour. You can also take one of these boat tours which takes you around the city canals. A perfect way to view the city. The last tour leaves at 5:30 pm in the evening.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-53cvj2wYVP0/T_xdDI4vk5I/AAAAAAAANOw/mY2Ahw-AMug/s1600/DSC_0068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-53cvj2wYVP0/T_xdDI4vk5I/AAAAAAAANOw/mY2Ahw-AMug/s640/DSC_0068.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Boat tours on the canal </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cG2XCSSBik/T_zpduSUz4I/AAAAAAAANY4/8TU35z3P0WI/s1600/DSC_0129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4cG2XCSSBik/T_zpduSUz4I/AAAAAAAANY4/8TU35z3P0WI/s640/DSC_0129.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W4ZqLp2Mn4k/T_xdPbUdnHI/AAAAAAAANO4/e4a7u_qXL14/s1600/DSC_0088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W4ZqLp2Mn4k/T_xdPbUdnHI/AAAAAAAANO4/e4a7u_qXL14/s640/DSC_0088.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Scenic canal view</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-paetaqQoqlA/T_xdXuycu2I/AAAAAAAANPA/96iYup5vVVM/s1600/DSC_0105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-paetaqQoqlA/T_xdXuycu2I/AAAAAAAANPA/96iYup5vVVM/s640/DSC_0105.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Visit the Church of our Lady and see Michelangelo's <i>Madonna and Child. </i>The entry to the church is 4 Euros. The church is nice but not very well maintained from inside. This Michelangelo's statue is the only one to leave Italy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlNfPN9YugE/T_xddm4BCgI/AAAAAAAANPI/0gPejP0M_DI/s1600/DSC_0110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VlNfPN9YugE/T_xddm4BCgI/AAAAAAAANPI/0gPejP0M_DI/s640/DSC_0110.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-align: left;">Michelangelo's </span><i style="text-align: left;">Madonna and Child</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXv-BdlcWMk/T_xdnpUQrpI/AAAAAAAANPQ/JG9JF8BhTl8/s1600/DSC_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXv-BdlcWMk/T_xdnpUQrpI/AAAAAAAANPQ/JG9JF8BhTl8/s640/DSC_0118.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Church of our lady </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XV5mXhkzzo/T_xdxd1EhNI/AAAAAAAANPY/y63VELSNsqU/s1600/DSC_0125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XV5mXhkzzo/T_xdxd1EhNI/AAAAAAAANPY/y63VELSNsqU/s640/DSC_0125.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Inside the church</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Walk to the Market Square where the Bell tower stands tall and high at 290 feet. If you have time, climb up the 400 stairs all the way to the top for spectacular views of the city. It will cost 8 euros and is open from 9:30 am - 17:00 pm. Right under the Bell Tower are two famous stalls selling Belgian-style fries.<br />
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdJFPgRniKw/T_xeEb3jvuI/AAAAAAAANPo/5U22iXDwPzg/s1600/DSC_0141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdJFPgRniKw/T_xeEb3jvuI/AAAAAAAANPo/5U22iXDwPzg/s640/DSC_0141.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bell Tower at Market Square</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_b7iyKBhOv4/T_xeLSNSaDI/AAAAAAAANPw/ssIz4zMw5t0/s1600/DSC_0147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_b7iyKBhOv4/T_xeLSNSaDI/AAAAAAAANPw/ssIz4zMw5t0/s640/DSC_0147.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gxrjxhKgSJo/T_xeVMb8R_I/AAAAAAAANP4/lvK7iz_8p_I/s1600/DSC_0159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gxrjxhKgSJo/T_xeVMb8R_I/AAAAAAAANP4/lvK7iz_8p_I/s640/DSC_0159.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Bruggians love fine chocolate. All throughout the city you will find beautiful chocolate-filled display windows. The Chocolate line attracts plenty of tourists and locals everyday. The chocolates are pricey at 5 Euros/100 grams but definitely worth the price. Dominique Person - the mad chocolate scientist mixes chocolate with a variety of savory flavors. Options like lemongrass, lavender, ginger, chili, Moroccan mint and many more are all available at this store.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r4f_2SAXh3I/T_xeb_4_5YI/AAAAAAAANQA/Ixe-nigKS00/s1600/DSC_0161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r4f_2SAXh3I/T_xeb_4_5YI/AAAAAAAANQA/Ixe-nigKS00/s640/DSC_0161.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Fine Chocolate</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpUYjbWJDnc/T_xeo--wqCI/AAAAAAAANQI/yfARcNj0Khs/s1600/DSC_0176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GpUYjbWJDnc/T_xeo--wqCI/AAAAAAAANQI/yfARcNj0Khs/s640/DSC_0176.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NLJSUyuFmUA/T_xeu2zQBaI/AAAAAAAANQQ/tUT3wLRTWPc/s1600/DSC_0180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NLJSUyuFmUA/T_xeu2zQBaI/AAAAAAAANQQ/tUT3wLRTWPc/s640/DSC_0180.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Train Station </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We ate a scrumptious lunch at a family owned Mediterranean restaurant called <a href="http://www.theolivetree-brugge.com/" target="_blank">The Olive tree</a>. The dishes were all tasty and prepared fresh. It's the kind of place where you go, sit and enjoy a meal. Do not dine there if you are in a hurry. The owner/server was extremely friendly and took great care of us. We tried the shrimp and chicken. Both tasted great. The best part of the meal was the complimentary dessert - greek yogurt with candied fruits and honey. Simply delicious!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d9TJn51OmKk/T_xe5w7jEWI/AAAAAAAANQY/VJXX21bD5Ys/s1600/IMG_2457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d9TJn51OmKk/T_xe5w7jEWI/AAAAAAAANQY/VJXX21bD5Ys/s640/IMG_2457.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fish at The Olive restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgwdmJm-V8I/T_xfEa1JycI/AAAAAAAANQg/nOjJf49NqN4/s1600/IMG_2458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgwdmJm-V8I/T_xfEa1JycI/AAAAAAAANQg/nOjJf49NqN4/s640/IMG_2458.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bread with olives at The Olive restaurant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aok6FUyYALU/T_xfNU9T85I/AAAAAAAANQo/yHjBXBU5bBE/s1600/IMG_2459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aok6FUyYALU/T_xfNU9T85I/AAAAAAAANQo/yHjBXBU5bBE/s640/IMG_2459.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Chicken kebabs at The Olive restaurant</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bruges is also famous for lace. Bruges' crocheted lace imitates lace, which is done on the bobbins. There are plenty of stores selling beautiful lace for curtains, table-cloth and pillows.<br />
<br />
If you have time, take a horse-buggy ride. You will hear one pass by you every few minutes. You can catch up on Flemish art at the Groeinge Museum. You can also do a fun tour that includes beer. It's called the De Halve Maan Brewery Tour. Rent a bike and visit the countryside. Finally if you are interested in chocolates, they even have the Chocolate museum.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-89425355454984510912012-07-10T22:07:00.000-04:002012-07-19T09:16:05.132-04:00Europe - Pit Stop 1 - Ghent, Belgium<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When you think of Europe and vacation, not many travelers (including me) consider Belgium. Having spent three fabulous nights in Belgium, I must admit i am pleasantly surprised and happy. Nestled between France, Germany and Netherlands, Belgium is one of Europe's best kept secrets. It's famous for its beer, waffles, chocolates, sprouts and lace. Perfect for a summer getaway. The temperatures are cool and the days are long. Beautiful and picture pretty.<br />
<br />
We landed in Brussels (the capital of Belgium) from JFK and took the train straight to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghent" target="_blank">Ghent</a>, our base for the next two days. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghent" target="_blank">Ghent</a> was once famous for its textile trade. Now it's just a well preserved picturesque town with a great night life and charming museums. It's a 35 minutes train ride from Brussels.<br />
<br />
Once you arrive at the main station called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gent-Sint-Pieters_railway_station" target="_blank">Gent-Sint-Pieters</a>, you can either take the tram (1.20 Euros, a 15 min ride) or a taxi (10 Euros, 15 min ride) to the main city centre. Our hotel <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g188666-d206724-r133951075-NH_Gent_Belfort-Ghent_East_Flanders_Province.html#CHECK_RATES_CONT" target="_blank">NH Ghent Belford</a> was right next to the City centre, the hub of all attractions and tours. While the daytime is full of tourists, evenings are beautiful and less crowded. I highly recommend taking a stroll in the night once it gets dark and the city is all lit up. The monuments have a different charm to them in the night. Btw just a word of caution it does not get dark here in the summers till after 9:30 - 10 pm. So the days are definitely longer.<br />
<br />
The most famous places to see are:<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>St. Michael's Bridge</u></i></b>: One gets the best views of the city from this bridge. The bridge faces the waterway which was once the city's busy harbor. Lining the embarkments on the right of the bridge are beautifully decorated guild houses (meeting halls for the traders). There are plenty of locals (students) and tourists in and around this place, drinking, chatting and having a fun evening. The air is vibrant and light, the city shines like a star and the weather is prefect for a slow and lazy stroll.<br />
<br />
<b><u><i>Korenmarkt</i></u>: </b>The "Grain Market" is a small square in the city. From here you can see the three main buildings in Ghent - The church of St. Nicholas, the Belfry and St. Bavo's Cathedral. It is said that you can determine the age of a building in Ghent by the stone used in its construction. Before the year 1400 when Ghent was a wealthy town and trade was flourishing, they built with gray limestone. By 1500 as the economy slowed down, they started using yellow sandstone. And after 1500 when Ghent's economy tanked due to competition from other cities, they resorted to the cheap red bricks. Interestingly each building has several centuries of construction.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>St. Nicholas' Church</u></i>: </b>This Gothic church is mostly made of gray limestone. The entrance is free and it is open daily from 10:00 - 17:00 pm. You can clearly see the transition from the gray limestone to yellow sandstone in certain parts of the church.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.belfortgent.be/" target="_blank"><b><i>Belfry</i></b></a><b>: </b>This is one the biggest and most interesting buildings in Ghent. I was instantly attracted to the dragon topping the spire. Upon further reading i discovered that the dragon symbolizes a protector who never sleeps as it watches over the city. One can go up the belfry for a view over the town. It's open daily from 10:00 - 18:00 pm.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Cathedral of St. Bavo</u></i>: </b>This is the main church of Ghent. Entrance is free and it's open from 9:30 - 16:45pm mon - friday and 13:00 - 16:30 pm on sundays. Since this church was built over many centuries, all three materials were used in the construction. The highlight of the church is the Jan and Hubert Van Eyck's <i>Adoration of the Mystic Lamb</i> alter piece.<br />
<br />
Ghent is a beautiful city which is specially charming in the night. Spend a day or more in this relaxed town. It's central location makes it a great home base while traveling to nearby cities. The city has beautiful monuments which come to life in the night. Make sure you're cameras are well equipped to capture the night time beauty. Here are some shots my friend and I took during our visit.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OVI7dHBt31Y/T_xLEt-U62I/AAAAAAAANMg/BYxeV7YbPPs/s1600/DSC_0491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OVI7dHBt31Y/T_xLEt-U62I/AAAAAAAANMg/BYxeV7YbPPs/s640/DSC_0491.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Michael's Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O5B-bg_6ktc/T_xLN-gCnjI/AAAAAAAANMo/uUBcl1mCO7I/s1600/DSC_0502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O5B-bg_6ktc/T_xLN-gCnjI/AAAAAAAANMo/uUBcl1mCO7I/s640/DSC_0502.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Michael's Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkzgDq0ZD-8/T_xLT6eJ4nI/AAAAAAAANMw/1c369dVXUWg/s1600/DSC_0506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkzgDq0ZD-8/T_xLT6eJ4nI/AAAAAAAANMw/1c369dVXUWg/s640/DSC_0506.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ornately decorated guild houses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FdGBQamhBLg/T_xLd7j2FdI/AAAAAAAANM4/Y2gOXhhVTEI/s1600/DSC_0509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FdGBQamhBLg/T_xLd7j2FdI/AAAAAAAANM4/Y2gOXhhVTEI/s640/DSC_0509.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another view of the city in the night </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hri-FxhElPM/T_xLl35jpWI/AAAAAAAANNA/MOGnrH_46PU/s1600/DSC_0510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hri-FxhElPM/T_xLl35jpWI/AAAAAAAANNA/MOGnrH_46PU/s640/DSC_0510.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of the famous buildings<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ueam7gVYhSE/T_xUlJl2qyI/AAAAAAAANN0/hKV7btbjGe0/s1600/DSC_0444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ueam7gVYhSE/T_xUlJl2qyI/AAAAAAAANN0/hKV7btbjGe0/s640/DSC_0444.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">St. Nicholas' Church</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skcHAcXXBGg/T_xL058rwnI/AAAAAAAANNU/PTeRIzzQKrI/s1600/DSC_0519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skcHAcXXBGg/T_xL058rwnI/AAAAAAAANNU/PTeRIzzQKrI/s640/DSC_0519.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X-eB1uuf8Y8/T_xK6uVXkqI/AAAAAAAANMY/zCQmNxDHx_I/s1600/DSC_0437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X-eB1uuf8Y8/T_xK6uVXkqI/AAAAAAAANMY/zCQmNxDHx_I/s640/DSC_0437.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5M4oDUSdS4/T_xLtYJc_QI/AAAAAAAANNI/09MfpHP5EA4/s1600/DSC_0515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5M4oDUSdS4/T_xLtYJc_QI/AAAAAAAANNI/09MfpHP5EA4/s640/DSC_0515.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral of St. Bavo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9qceTKvejk/T_xL_BWIG_I/AAAAAAAANNc/Ve8VxFSRA_Q/s1600/DSC_0523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9qceTKvejk/T_xL_BWIG_I/AAAAAAAANNc/Ve8VxFSRA_Q/s640/DSC_0523.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cathedral of St. Bavo </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-35192143365668116692012-06-29T10:13:00.000-04:002012-06-29T10:36:22.033-04:00The High Line, NYC<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I finally managed to visit </span><a href="http://www.thehighline.org/" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The High Line</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> last week. What is </span><a href="http://www.thehighline.org/" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The High Line</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> you may ask? It is a 1 mile long public park built on an historic freight line elevated above the streets on Manhattan's west side. It's become the "top 10" must visit spots in NYC. So what makes the High Line so special? </span><br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The lush greenery, plenty of flora fauna and the cool eco - friendly benches. The elevated park gives you a feeling like you are floating with the clouds while still being on the ground. The view of the streets below makes it unique. All along the walk you can see buildings, new modern apartments and even a view of the pier. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">If this is your first time, you'll never know what's coming your way. You just keep walking and beautiful things keep coming your way. There are some food stalls and information booth at one end of the park. People are generally lounging around, laughing/talking/walking/reading along the path. The whole atmosphere is calm and peaceful. Here are some picture I took with my phone on the way!!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-azn1aJGp8Lk/T-2i1x5XakI/AAAAAAAAMrY/5y8RZ_Uq_yE/s1600/IMG_2298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-azn1aJGp8Lk/T-2i1x5XakI/AAAAAAAAMrY/5y8RZ_Uq_yE/s640/IMG_2298.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WJ6HH_23WpI/T-2jlCZu1aI/AAAAAAAAMr0/ipdzNS0S0uA/s1600/IMG_2306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WJ6HH_23WpI/T-2jlCZu1aI/AAAAAAAAMr0/ipdzNS0S0uA/s640/IMG_2306.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M2rQjBBFHAY/T-2jGGhlbgI/AAAAAAAAMrg/iyPNnfENYAM/s1600/IMG_2301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M2rQjBBFHAY/T-2jGGhlbgI/AAAAAAAAMrg/iyPNnfENYAM/s640/IMG_2301.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DI7wvegxZwo/T-2j7pEP85I/AAAAAAAAMsI/zY3x9KBGpHM/s1600/IMG_2311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DI7wvegxZwo/T-2j7pEP85I/AAAAAAAAMsI/zY3x9KBGpHM/s640/IMG_2311.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2JSSwhXDpAE/T-2kJikd_nI/AAAAAAAAMsQ/eq0bsPlNpTs/s1600/IMG_2314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2JSSwhXDpAE/T-2kJikd_nI/AAAAAAAAMsQ/eq0bsPlNpTs/s640/IMG_2314.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xIPcOZB9vko/T-2kVsH859I/AAAAAAAAMsc/QT6W2m2cdj8/s1600/IMG_2315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xIPcOZB9vko/T-2kVsH859I/AAAAAAAAMsc/QT6W2m2cdj8/s640/IMG_2315.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P3kY0lt0PUM/T-2kh4DumAI/AAAAAAAAMsk/mbPf764j_SI/s1600/IMG_2316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P3kY0lt0PUM/T-2kh4DumAI/AAAAAAAAMsk/mbPf764j_SI/s640/IMG_2316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kcnw2ygv2dM/T-2kwVy72JI/AAAAAAAAMss/9FRzsONwN34/s1600/IMG_2318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kcnw2ygv2dM/T-2kwVy72JI/AAAAAAAAMss/9FRzsONwN34/s640/IMG_2318.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb8yz808r-4/T-2k6S-5oxI/AAAAAAAAMs4/jgZ4unBnp4E/s1600/IMG_2319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb8yz808r-4/T-2k6S-5oxI/AAAAAAAAMs4/jgZ4unBnp4E/s640/IMG_2319.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Sy8sc9ykgE/T-2lG9n5aqI/AAAAAAAAMtA/NuJH4CYapKs/s1600/IMG_2320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Sy8sc9ykgE/T-2lG9n5aqI/AAAAAAAAMtA/NuJH4CYapKs/s640/IMG_2320.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tpYCwvebFlI/T-2lVmgVEPI/AAAAAAAAMtI/YvUYO8HJSzc/s1600/IMG_2322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tpYCwvebFlI/T-2lVmgVEPI/AAAAAAAAMtI/YvUYO8HJSzc/s640/IMG_2322.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RAkp45MFIA/T-2ljTG-XKI/AAAAAAAAMtU/uvMVFEzdJno/s1600/IMG_2323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RAkp45MFIA/T-2ljTG-XKI/AAAAAAAAMtU/uvMVFEzdJno/s640/IMG_2323.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pKLYP6GUKW4/T-2lyMV08dI/AAAAAAAAMtc/-UISdvhVOHo/s1600/IMG_2324.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pKLYP6GUKW4/T-2lyMV08dI/AAAAAAAAMtc/-UISdvhVOHo/s640/IMG_2324.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6xhp8xMtnLY/T-2mLsazBQI/AAAAAAAAMtw/Hix43kuh-hw/s1600/IMG_2326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6xhp8xMtnLY/T-2mLsazBQI/AAAAAAAAMtw/Hix43kuh-hw/s640/IMG_2326.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CMSRtYLzH_w/T-2maG44TfI/AAAAAAAAMt8/ElIwdDv1P1k/s1600/IMG_2329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CMSRtYLzH_w/T-2maG44TfI/AAAAAAAAMt8/ElIwdDv1P1k/s640/IMG_2329.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7IFv0BDKDrI/T-2muZzpreI/AAAAAAAAMuE/V9io5KkzCB4/s1600/IMG_2331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7IFv0BDKDrI/T-2muZzpreI/AAAAAAAAMuE/V9io5KkzCB4/s640/IMG_2331.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KeQndsF36Mo/T-2nUHjxojI/AAAAAAAAMuY/eJ-BduoCy9M/s1600/IMG_2334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KeQndsF36Mo/T-2nUHjxojI/AAAAAAAAMuY/eJ-BduoCy9M/s640/IMG_2334.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l37JxOkZ5Qg/T-2nAbtHD1I/AAAAAAAAMuQ/LVyHf4ZlFGw/s1600/IMG_2333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l37JxOkZ5Qg/T-2nAbtHD1I/AAAAAAAAMuQ/LVyHf4ZlFGw/s640/IMG_2333.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHyrPlDaGE4/T-2nhitFnmI/AAAAAAAAMuk/SgG8cXE_13k/s1600/IMG_2335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eHyrPlDaGE4/T-2nhitFnmI/AAAAAAAAMuk/SgG8cXE_13k/s640/IMG_2335.jpg" width="480" /></span><span style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"> </span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CSopms616D0/T-2nvoHkaUI/AAAAAAAAMus/TMMtL_qr-lY/s1600/IMG_2337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CSopms616D0/T-2nvoHkaUI/AAAAAAAAMus/TMMtL_qr-lY/s640/IMG_2337.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8TuLpnSjv20/T-2n-7o2FyI/AAAAAAAAMu4/L9OaHgWHBGg/s1600/IMG_2341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8TuLpnSjv20/T-2n-7o2FyI/AAAAAAAAMu4/L9OaHgWHBGg/s640/IMG_2341.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LrJEwWdEXbM/T-2o9jXQgQI/AAAAAAAAMvg/tBFhbOxEnXA/s1600/IMG_2347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LrJEwWdEXbM/T-2o9jXQgQI/AAAAAAAAMvg/tBFhbOxEnXA/s640/IMG_2347.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0s3mJGVep8/T-2pN7U4DvI/AAAAAAAAMvo/E7nxMbFrUPo/s1600/IMG_2348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0s3mJGVep8/T-2pN7U4DvI/AAAAAAAAMvo/E7nxMbFrUPo/s640/IMG_2348.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tAHOBa1FXcc/T-2pe1vZbWI/AAAAAAAAMv0/ENuvX4o_z9Y/s1600/IMG_2349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tAHOBa1FXcc/T-2pe1vZbWI/AAAAAAAAMv0/ENuvX4o_z9Y/s640/IMG_2349.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivTHU6y3dM0/T-2po8sgKII/AAAAAAAAMv8/LWb0Q1Mfas8/s1600/IMG_2350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivTHU6y3dM0/T-2po8sgKII/AAAAAAAAMv8/LWb0Q1Mfas8/s640/IMG_2350.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3j1dQuaOmM/T-2p1Ss8QrI/AAAAAAAAMwI/W3q3BY3L3Eo/s1600/IMG_2351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S3j1dQuaOmM/T-2p1Ss8QrI/AAAAAAAAMwI/W3q3BY3L3Eo/s640/IMG_2351.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VwX2VDKnJE/T-2qa124DwI/AAAAAAAAMwk/ylfyGxYz9qs/s1600/IMG_2359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VwX2VDKnJE/T-2qa124DwI/AAAAAAAAMwk/ylfyGxYz9qs/s640/IMG_2359.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bz0IdTiQT30/T-2qB5CUqtI/AAAAAAAAMwQ/Owd5gbMR8dg/s1600/IMG_2353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bz0IdTiQT30/T-2qB5CUqtI/AAAAAAAAMwQ/Owd5gbMR8dg/s640/IMG_2353.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-23228975028979352132012-06-18T19:26:00.002-04:002012-06-18T20:07:16.163-04:00JUST YOU<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My best friend who has never ever run in her life, recently completed a half marathon. I was so proud of her that i wrote a poem in her honor. While this poem is dedicated to her, I must say the more I read it, the more i felt it's dedicated to all of us too. It's true to me, to you and to every woman (or man) who is true to themselves. I hope this inspires you to find the true YOU!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You, you are the woman of today</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Strong and brave, each morning, each day</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">you are gentle and sweet</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Such a beautiful soul, but a bit freak</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You, you are the woman of today</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The one who lives her life each minute her way</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You stumble and you fall</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">But pick up yourself and move ahead with your call</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You, you are the woman of today</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Filling our lives with love, laughter and your crazy ways</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You jump and you scream, play like a girl and beam</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You also work hard, dream and want to move up the corporate stream</span><span style="background-color: white;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You, you are the woman of today</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One who makes up her mind and trains for this day</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You started with 2 minutes, your legs could run no more</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today your strong will, will run you through 13 miles and maybe more</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">You, you are the woman of today</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Strong willed, beautiful and sexy in every way</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I thank you for being yourself, for being YOU</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My dear friend you are the most beautiful when you are truly YOU.</span></div>
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-40456079456822306332012-06-13T15:58:00.001-04:002012-06-29T10:24:56.828-04:00The week that was!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hi Everybody! I hope your week is going well. The past few days have been very exciting...every day I discover something wonderful in NYC. There is just so much to see, learn, absorb, listen and get lost in. Sharing a few trigger points! </div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>My yoga teacher <a href="http://virayoga.com/founders/elena-brower" target="_blank">Elena Brower</a> and a few others are doing a Global Yoga class in August. The world's largest yoga class - cost $675,000. Read all about it <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/glblyoga?c=home" target="_blank">here</a>. And an excellent reply to this global yoga event <a href="http://intentblog.com/the-worlds-largest-yoga-class-only-costs-675000-what-else-could-you-do-with-that-money/" target="_blank">here</a>. Would you donate for this event? </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F65Jle2i2f8/T9jbHwWhWQI/AAAAAAAAMjQ/i8FLRkfKV_M/s1600/Global+yoga" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F65Jle2i2f8/T9jbHwWhWQI/AAAAAAAAMjQ/i8FLRkfKV_M/s640/Global+yoga" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: Indiegogo.com</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>An inspiring <a href="http://unchartedplay.com/aboutus.html#story" target="_blank">story</a> with a very <a href="http://unchartedplay.com/howitworks.html" target="_blank">cool product</a> by 2 students from Harvard. It's a soccer ball SOCCKET--that doubles as an eco-friendly portable generator. </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OmADn7S8VvI/T9jvzwO6W9I/AAAAAAAAMm0/BQnos-CyiuU/s1600/Soccket" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OmADn7S8VvI/T9jvzwO6W9I/AAAAAAAAMm0/BQnos-CyiuU/s640/Soccket" width="459" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: http://unchartedplay.com/howitworks.html</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>I had the opportunity to dine at some really good restaurants, including a Michelin star Indian restaurant. The food was scrumptious!! Read my reviews here: <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/junoon-new-york#hrid:exhqhmvTlg3PczwuKKdEyA" target="_blank">Junoon</a>, <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-redhead-new-york#hrid:yprtssiJy8rNaB9ZlMFunA" target="_blank">Redhead</a>, <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/delicatessen-new-york#hrid:yUJAuWWErLO8oDtmTBqHVw" target="_blank">Delicatessen </a>and <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-green-table-new-york-2#hrid:A6UYemZfp0ZQz34Xki2LvQ" target="_blank">The Green Table</a>. Some pictures of the food. </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XOGWOIhRCRg/T9jrVlud4hI/AAAAAAAAMlc/jI09-g1KY0Q/s1600/IMG_2190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XOGWOIhRCRg/T9jrVlud4hI/AAAAAAAAMlc/jI09-g1KY0Q/s640/IMG_2190.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veggie Burger at Delicatessen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SBFj_6YUYn0/T9jr6WYmsZI/AAAAAAAAMmQ/yVBKLgQyHV8/s1600/photo%2829%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SBFj_6YUYn0/T9jr6WYmsZI/AAAAAAAAMmQ/yVBKLgQyHV8/s640/photo%2829%29.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mac & Cheese at The Green Table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViryUgHFTZc/T9jr_Pmk9SI/AAAAAAAAMmY/UElyIRb4lBc/s1600/photo%2830%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViryUgHFTZc/T9jr_Pmk9SI/AAAAAAAAMmY/UElyIRb4lBc/s640/photo%2830%29.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Pappardelle at Redhead </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JzmPNvAlTqA/T9jsF602ZyI/AAAAAAAAMmg/pIuO5wS8Me0/s1600/photo%2831%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JzmPNvAlTqA/T9jsF602ZyI/AAAAAAAAMmg/pIuO5wS8Me0/s640/photo%2831%29.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried Green Tomatoes at The Green Table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>While walking in NYC I came across a group practicing <b>Capoeira</b> - a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazil" title="Brazil">Brazilian</a> <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martial_art" title="Martial art">martial art</a>
that combines elements of dance and music. It is known by quick and
complex moves, using mainly power, speed, and leverage for leg sweeps.
Loved it, here is a short video I took. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw9i9AaRP_tweGD_Q8Tm0v2WkSg7u7SrneVMOvL-2Y1rjLGYkD9fn6tQn1k7fwr9OvKworV44YQPn9TvhCJ1Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Yoga pose of the week - <a href="http://www.yogatuneup.com/weekly-yoga-pose" target="_blank">The twisted triangle</a> </li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Love the concept of Cinemagraph. It's a technique that selectively causes some parts of a photograph moving. <a href="http://www.defringe.com/2011/jamie-beck/" target="_blank">Here</a> are some of my favorites by Jamie Beck.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Booked our tickets for <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1345836/" target="_blank">The Dark Knight Rises</a>. July 21st it is!</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f6f0lcbMwx8/T9jZ_6QnynI/AAAAAAAAMjA/QfDi_FzYlnA/s1600/dark+night" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f6f0lcbMwx8/T9jZ_6QnynI/AAAAAAAAMjA/QfDi_FzYlnA/s640/dark+night" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Google.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li> I am in heaven when i eat you!! While browsing through the isles of my local Whole foods I discovered Chocolove. Since then every trip to Whole food means a bar of my favorite Almonds and sea salt chocolate. Its rich and creamy, tasty with every bite. A little bit of salty and crunchy, delicious! Almonds & Sea Salt is arguably the best out there.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCeh-b7kqO4/T9jObefbxEI/AAAAAAAAMi0/zjhj4qrmXjc/s1600/Almonds+&+Sea+Salt-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="329" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sCeh-b7kqO4/T9jObefbxEI/AAAAAAAAMi0/zjhj4qrmXjc/s640/Almonds+&+Sea+Salt-large.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>Finally 2 more weeks till our trip!! Bonjour Paris!!! </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_l3wBnDfiI/T9joCt49iGI/AAAAAAAAMjk/3v1POto-N8c/s1600/Paris" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_l3wBnDfiI/T9joCt49iGI/AAAAAAAAMjk/3v1POto-N8c/s640/Paris" width="424" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Source: Pinterest</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3949764345641938822.post-42492136632529602922012-05-29T11:21:00.000-04:002012-06-29T10:25:42.056-04:00Trigger Points<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Hi Peeps, I hope you had a wonderful Memorial day weekend. Today I want to keep it short and simple. So just a few bullets! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I just got back from a weekend trip to Cleveland. Surprisingly had some amazing food at <a href="http://luckyscafe.com/" target="_blank">Lucky cafe</a>. More on that in the next post. </span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C03iEJqR0og/T8Totvj238I/AAAAAAAAMiQ/9yJj10Zgd9c/s1600/Cleveland" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C03iEJqR0og/T8Totvj238I/AAAAAAAAMiQ/9yJj10Zgd9c/s640/Cleveland" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleveland</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Spent the whole evening catching up on <a href="http://www.eonline.com/shows/kardashians" target="_blank">Keeping up with the Kardashians</a>. It's a love -hate relationship. I hate the whole family, but its easy to watch their mindless drama and forget about your own. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My favorite teacher <a href="http://www.jillmilleryoga.com/" target="_blank">Jill Miller's</a> teacher - <a href="http://www.bijayoganyc.com/schedule/" target="_blank">Glenn Black is in NY for a workshop</a> and I am so excited to attend it. </span>I have heard way too many good things about him to miss this one! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">2012 looks like a good year for Hindi cinema. Here is the <a href="http://www.top10bollywood.com/2011/07/bollywood-movie-calendar-2012.html" target="_blank">2012 calender</a>. I am looking forward to seeing <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bg1mnWqUu_I" target="_blank">Ishaqzaade</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-AkWDkXcMY" target="_blank">Gangs of Wasseypur</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M97P3zoUIos" target="_blank">Talaash</a></span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I am hooked on to these Bollywood songs. Can't seem to get them out of my mind! <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqyu9zqSxno" target="_blank">Pareshaan</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nHXOJPaKSc&feature=fvwrel" target="_blank">Auntiji Auntiji. </a></span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It’s an <a href="http://www.london2012.com/" target="_blank">Olympic year</a>. The countdown to the opening ceremony is on. Only 59 days left!! </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My favorite picture from this weekends trip is of the St. Theodosius church in the Tremont neighborhood, Cleveland. I just fell in love with the church! </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XhPh9kwfkBE/T8ToPMYCqYI/AAAAAAAAMiA/8r0JFSBLsDc/s1600/Church" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XhPh9kwfkBE/T8ToPMYCqYI/AAAAAAAAMiA/8r0JFSBLsDc/s640/Church" width="640" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And finally, we are heading for a short trip to Europe. My favorite part of the year! This year we will be visiting Brussels, Netherlands and Paris. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>What are you looking forward to in the next few weeks? </b> </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237109962264820749noreply@blogger.com0