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Visiting Montana

It is BIG SKY!

GLACIER

The East side of Glacier National Park had stunning views.  

Glacier was one of the places I thought about visiting, but it wasn’t very high on my list. Now, I want to go back as soon as possible!!!

Where did we go?

East Side of the Park - Hike Grinnell Glacier Lake Trail

We hiked to Grinnell Lake which was beautiful and peaceful. The hike started at Many Hotel past Swift Current Lake and Josephine Lake. Many Hotel is a great place to grab something to eat and there is a gift shop to pick up a sweatshirt or a gift.

Once you get to Grinnell Lake take the time to hang out and enjoy the breath-taking view around the lake before hiking back.

Suggestion: There is a boat from Many Glacier that can take you across Swift Current lake. My suggestion is to make reservations early and take the boat to save some time, especially if you have young kids. The round trip hike was a little long for them.

Horseback Riding

Near the Many Hotel there is horseback riding. The ride takes you around a lake through beautiful meadows and lush forest. It was one of the most beautiful horseback rides I have experienced!

We were not allowed to take our cameras so there are no pictures of the ride.

Many Horseback Riding

Many Hotel and Lodge

Saint Mary’s Lake

The East side of the park is more rural, gravel road in some areas, and there are very few services. I didn’t have any cell phone service, so we had a paper map in the car. However, it is absolutely gorgeous!

The Going-to-the-Sun  East side

The West side of the park

The west side of the park is a little more developed and there are more people. If you want the shopping, and more food options than this is the side of the park to visit.

Lake McDonald and McDonald Creek

It was nice kayaking around Lake McDonald. The kayaks are located at the Lake McDonald Lodge and are rented by the hour, first come first serve. However, the McDonald creek, which is really a river, is beautiful. Take time to walk around the river and admire the colorful rocks in the river bed.

Colorful Rocks in McDonald Creek.

Bears?

We had our bear spray but didn’t see any bears while in Glacier.  We talked to a number of people who just saw a bear or a Grizzly, but all we came across was some fresh poop.  I am kinda glad that is all we saw, because it was a bit rural and I didn’t want to come across a grizzly on the trail. If you need bear spray it may be already too late.

Very fresh poop!

Blackfeet Country

I was probably most excited realizing we were in Blackfeet country! It was also cool to find out that they were having their first pow wow since COVID while we were there. It took some time to adjust seeing teepees because on the east coast it can be a little offensive to put up a teepee since they were not used as much east of the Mississippi.

Blackfeet Pow Wow Grand Entry

Little Big Horn

Little Big Horn was a bonus stop in Montana. In grade school we were taught about Custer, and when I was older I learned about the vision of Sitting Bull and the way the Indian nations came together to defend their land. While in Crow land there was a feeling of sadness and strength!

What you should know.

Which side of the park to visit?

It depends on your preference. The east side is more rural, fewer people and fewer services. The west side has more services and is easier to get to. We visited both sides :-)

Shuttle or Not

Should you take the shuttle to visit the different sites along the Going-to-the-Sun road? There is a cute red bus that is a great option, however, we rented a car which gave us the flexibility to make other stops and to get our feet wet in the river.

Cell Service

I didn’t have much cell service in most of the park, especially on the east side. Make sure you have an off-line or paper map in case your GPS is not working.

Roads

Most of the roads are well maintained, but we encountered some gravel sections even on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Oh, don’t forget to order your permit for the road in advance!

We flew into Billings because it was too expensive to fly into Glacier. The drive was long.

Food

Recommend packing lunch and taking snacks. We stayed in the park, but traveled several hours most days to visit different areas of the park. There are very few places to dine, so it is important to have plenty to eat. We were worried about wild animals, but most of the parking lots were busy with people. In the rural areas it is best to take all food with you. We didn’t leave food in the car over night.

Weather

We had great weather in the park, but the storms east of the mountains can be harsh. We experiences a golf ball sized hail storm and a horrible sand storm that caused a 22 car pile up.

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Paris Sky Lines

Take time to visit the roofs and highest floors of the the buildings around Paris to catch different glimpses of the city scape.

This is not the skyline that comes to mind when I think of Paris but it is unique. 

This give me a new appreciation for the Louvre and the enormity of this museum. I now know why I get lost in this place.

From this view you can see that the roads lead to the fabulous Arc de Triomphe!

Paris also has one of the biggest cemeteries.

This is one of my favorite views looking down from the Eiffel Tower.

Then there is the view of the Eiffel Tower from Montparnasse Tower. Well worth the trip to the top for a great view!

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Berlin

I tried Berlin and I liked it.

In the past, when traveling in Germany, I visited what may be considered the storybook sights…medieval Castles, the Black Forest, delightful Christmas Villages and lovely Cathedrals.  Normally, I avoid places known for their dark and tragic histories but this time I decided to take a chance and I visited Berlin including the concentration camp, Sachsenhausen.

First of all, I enjoyed the people who took the time to help me find my way around. In fact, this was one of my better experiences in Europe and Asia. Walking the streets of the city revealed unique and modern architecture but what really captured my eye was the colorful and creative street art.

Take the time to visit the Jewish Museum of Berlin. The baroque, titanium and glass Jewish Museum provides an experience that stimulates the senses.    

The museum is not typical and it is one that evokes emotion with the use of high spaces, gardens, light, sound and faces.  One of my favorite exhibits was the installation, Ganzfeld "Aural" by the artist James Turrell, the immersive experience with light and color.

The other moving exhibit was the 10,000 faces, “Fallen Leaves”, made of steel distributed on the floor of the museum.  Our guide stated that the void represents the emptiness if all Jews were missing from the earth.

The place I was most concerned about visiting was the Sachsenhausen concentration camp which is a train ride just outside of Berlin.  The station is in  Oranienburg,  The camp is a 20min walk from the station but there is also a bus.

How would I describe my tour of Sachsenhausen concentration camp?...enlightening. I was expecting it to be dark and somber, which it was, but I realized how much I didn’t know about these camps.  Yes, there was deflection, justification or what I often hear from those who don’t understand the pain they inflict on others… “it wasn’t as bad here as other places”.  It was brutal!

What I didn’t know…

They used the prisoners as laboratory experiments for athletic equipment and medicine. The prisoners had to run back and forth up to 25miles a day on different terrain to test durability of athletic and military shoes. If a guard was having a bad day he would shoot them or give them cocaine to make them work harder. Prisoners were also used to build aircrafts, create bricks and other items for major companies. Does this sound familiar?

Because this camp was also used for political prisoners, there was an area that was designed with smaller housing units away from the general population. Even though 30-50 thousand people died here it was not a death camp, at least not at first.

It seems there was a small amount of kindness and beauty here. One of the prisoners who worked in the infirmary was able to help some of the prisoner by providing them with medication.  In the basement of one of the buildings there were beautiful paintings of flowers.

What was hard to see?...The ovens that were build later in the war.

It was difficult to hear the history but the visit was very informative and provide a broader view I had never heard before.

The last place I visited in Berlin was the infamous... “Wall”.  It wasn’t as high as I had imagined it but it was depressing to see something cold separating people and their families.

An unexpected piece of history I learned was what the non-Jewish people experienced during the war. Reading their history revealed that people from other countries living in Germany were rounded up and placed in prisons and concentration camps. The the media was silenced by the ruling party and imprisoned those who spoke against them. The more I read the more familiar the actions sounded which sent a chill down my spine.  

Even though the history is ever present it drowned out by the wonderful music, tasty cuisine, impressive art and sweet candies.

If you plan to visit:

Transportation: 

The train is easy to use. I prefer the Silent Car.

The subway is convenient along with the bus system

The city is also walkable

Accommodations:

Take the time to stay in a small boutique hotel away from the core tourist areas but a few blocks away from public transportation.

Food:

It was easy to find healthy and vegetarian options in the city along with all types of cuisine.

Visit the small grocery stores for easy meals, wine and chocolate!

A neighborhood south of the Landwehr Canal down Mehringdamm road has great restaurants

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Favorite Pics from 2016

My memories from the past year.

Havana, Cuba

Santiago, Cuba...similar to many of the other countries I visit...except for the old cars.

Disney World, Florida..I love this place!

Duke Gardens, Durham, NC...I will miss these gardens

Montmorency Falls, Quebec, Canada

Cape Lookout, Outer Banks, NC...One of the most beautiful beaches.

Grand Ole Opry, Nashville, Tenn.

4th of July, Little Rock, Arkansas. Awesome view of the fireworks.

Little Rock Arkansas, View from our offices

Pinnacle Mountain Trial, Little Rock, Arkansas. I am glad I didn’t wear my sandals.

Toltec, Indian Mound, Arkansas

Highway 40 somewhere in Texas

Toltec Indian Mound, Arkansas

King Biscuit Blues Festival, Helena Arkansas. Can’t wait until next year. It is so cool to be in the heat of blues country.

Duke Chapel, Durham, NC

Big Dam Bridge View, Little Rock Arkansas

Rest in Peace.

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And then there are the Cars

Cuba’s Rides

When I tell people I went to Cuba they always ask me about the Cars, so here are some photos of the various types of transportation options in Cuba. This picture has both an American and Russian Car

The SUV/Vans were useful in the mountains

Many of the American Cars have been converted into drop tops because they are used as taxis for the tourists.

Often times buses and cars share the road with other vehicles.

Cuba has lots of tour buses to move tourist around the country. Also notice that they also have modern automobiles. There weren’t many but we did see Mercedes, Lexus, VWs and other luxury vehicles primarily in Havana.

In the countryside many people travel by horse.

Bikes in the city are popular as well.

This is their version of a bus system. Large trucks that transport people called Camion.

These old Russian cars are everywhere. When we called for a taxi this is what came to our door.

Looking at her, looking at him, looking at the car

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Revolution & Socialism

Cuba’s Messages

When traveling across the countryside of Cuba I saw signs and billboards that communicated the beliefs of the county. It felt as if the Revolution just happened yesterday.

In the US most of our signs promote possession of materials, food, sex and entertainment. It is a stark contrast between the two cultures. I wonder if that will change in Cuba once the embargo has been lifted by the US.

Courtesy of Sharon

Che is like a God in Cuba . His image is everywhere.

Courtesy of Bert

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Local Comida

A Taste of Cuba

We have a few Cuban restaurants where I live but I thought they were Americanized so I couldn’t wait for a chance eat the authentic.  With Cuba being an island this was a great opportunity to eat some great seafood but that would not happen. 

Cuba doesn’t have a fishing industry...why...the fishing boats are used to leave Cuba so to keep people in the country boats are not allowed. There were a few opportunities to eat seafood.

Vegetarian Anyone?

If you are vegetarian you may have a difficult time finding enough to eat in Cuba. Veggies were not very plentiful. Cucumbers and Tomatoes were the most frequently served vegetables while others came from a can.

Rice and Beans Rice and Beans and Rice and Beans. No more Rice and Beans. Cubans are the largest consumers of rice outside of China.

They also seem to eat a lot of pasta too.

Pork, Chicken and some Beef

Where to Dine?

If you want to go out to eat while in Cuba your options are a government owned restaurant or a paladares, a restaurant in a private home. The Cuban government has loosened the restrictions so there are many more paladares to choose from. Paladares are usually very good but there are a few that I would not go back to. As an American with a tour group the food was more expensive than in other developing countries. I think you can find more affordable meals if you eat where the locals dine.

Havana

LaFabrica was where I had one of my best meals in Havana. My currie lamb was great. I recommend reservations or you will have to wait awhile before being seated on the roof top terrace.

Paladar Dona Carmela in Havana has back yard seating and really good food but you will pay a little more (around $25 per person).

Villa Santo Domingo in Sierra Maestra

The Orchid is a few steps from the Villa Santo Domingo Hotel but I would recommend checking out other places to eat across the street or across the river because this one wasn’t very good. Also, if they offer you coffee it is not a hot cup of Joe but a bag of coffee beans they will expect you to pay for.

Santiago

El Morro is located at the Morro Museum in a beautiful setting overlooking the fort and the water. The food was great too!

Beverages

No Cokes, there were a few Fanta’s but they have their own brand, Ciego Montero.

Rum Flow

From a welcome drink in a hotel to toasting in the airport Rum flows frequently in Cuba. Havana Club and Santiago Cuba (Barcardi) are the two brands of rum that are most common in the country.

Cigars

Americans are allowed to bring into the US $100 of Cigars and Rum. Purchase the cigars from specialized shops only. The markets may not have authentic brands. A really good cigar can be purchased for about $7-$15 each.

Desserts

Cubans are crazy for ice cream and it was delicious! I am not a flan person but the flan at the Muraleando Community project was really tasty.

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Cuba - General Impression

Just got back from Cuba so there is so much to share. This first blog will provide my overall impressions of the visit and then I will follow up with specific topics related to culture, sites and their society. 

This visit was a delegation from the U.S. that entered Cuba on a visa. We flew out of Miami into Havana then traveled by chartered bus across the country to Santiago. We visited Santa Clara, Camaguey, Santo Domingo (Sierra Maestra) and Santiago.

Housing

The architecture is beautiful in Havana even the buildings that are crumbling have style. Currently, they are experiencing challenges with keeping them in good shape especially those along the waterfront that are beat up by the ocean winds and water. Housing consists of a combination of single family homes (more than one generation is living in these) and large apartment buildings that have been set up by the government.

We were told that everyone was provided with housing and I didn’t see any homeless people in the areas we visited.

Religion

Even though the Church and the Cuban government may not have seen eye to eye the last 50+ years Catholicism and Santeria seem to be the most practiced. There are some lovely cathedrals across the country. The one I liked best was outside of Santiago in Cobre.

Cathedral El Cobre 

It seems that there is a mixture of practices between Santeria and Catholicism which is similar in other countries such as Brazil.

Santeria Dancer

Tourism

There are tons of tourists in Cuba, many of them from Europe. Based on my previous travels in developing countries Cuba is similar in accommodating them. There are hotels, restaurants and souvenirs for purchase at each turn. The limited number of hotels are equivalent to 2, 3 & 4 star hotels in the U.S. Some with all of the amenities such as services, pools and shops, and others where the elevators and hot water are lucky if they work.  What is unique, is in response to a tip that is left each day the housekeeping staff may create animals or other shapes from the towels which is a special treat.

 Food

So I was really curious about the food. As most people know the food in the U.S. is usually a modified version of what is authentic to the country where it is from. I was expecting lots of seafood because it is an island but that was not the case. The staple of beans and rice was served with most meals along with either pork, chicken sometimes beef or fish. I would caution you if you have dietary restrictions or health issues related to blood pressure because the food we encountered was very salty, and fruit (except bananas) and veggies were not very plentiful.

The state run restaurants are OK, some of the private ones in homes are good but it really depends. Food with a tour group was pricey ranging $7-$25 (U.S. dollars) a meal. If you are traveling on your own meals may be around $3-$10.

Yes, there are old cars

Many of the old U.S. cars serve as taxis but there are also old Russian vehicles that seem to be everywhere. In the cities, along with automobiles there are motorbikes, and in the rural areas people are on bicycles, horseback or horse carriages.   

Of Course...Cigars and Rum

Some say that Cuban cigars are the best and there are several types of rum to choose from. Santiago Rum (aka Barcardi) is a favorite along with Havana Club. 

Politics

The U.S. has communicated that diplomatic relationships have been established but Cubans say that they are on the road to establishing a diplomatic relationship. They would like the U.S. to drop the embargo so they can trade with other countries. The U.S. embargo is not only restricting trade with the U.S. but there is a penalty for companies that trade with Cuba within 6 months of trading with the U.S.

The Revolution is visible throughout the country. There are signs honoring their leaders and heroes.

What to know about Cuba if you go

10% surcharge using/changing the American dollar. Most places don’t accept the dollar but there are banks or places to change money.

No U.S. credit cards accepted or ATM cards so bring cash.

Traveling with a tour group can be pricey. If traveling on your own you may be able to find more economical food and housing (casa particular - private homes). Bring plenty of money for tipping your waiter, housekeeping or someone that provides a favor.

Many places charge 5 CUCs (One of Cuba’s currencies) to use your cameras for photos. 

Internet is available but requires a wireless card from 2-5 CUCs an hour (about $2-5.00+). Internet is available in hotel lobbies or in the town plaza.

Donations: Thank you to my friends and colleagues for the donations to the Cubans.  Some businesses (museums, clinics...) may be able to use ballpoint pens but I would hesitate donating to those who are in the tourist industry because they receive more than most others. If you do bring something consider children’s medicine, women’s feminine products, batteries. The government has provided some basic needs for their people such as healthcare, education, some housing, low cost food.... Also consider giving to those who do not have housing, food, healthcare or basic needs in other countries.

Visiting Cuba over the holidays was lovely! Of course the warm weather was a treat but there was a festive spirit. The people are nice, the history interesting and the streets and plazas full of life.  Havana was very pleasant and beautiful but I really enjoyed Santiago which had an energetic vibe along with dance and music.

New Years Eve in Cuba!!!

Future blogs: Healthcare, Government, Education, Sites

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Washington DC - Quick Weekend Trip

If you have a weekend in the Nation’s Capital Mix it up a little 

Air Force Memorial

Most people have visited the Capital or the Washington Monument but have you been to the the Air Force Memorial? Located near the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, it also hosts events such as concerts by the Air Force Band.

The musical event I attend this past summer was a lovely evening under the stars and the towering spires. The audience consisted of people of all ages listening to quality entertainment that was not only relaxing but fun!

If you attend a concert take your chair or a blanket. The parking lot down the hill or around the corner is a short walk or you can take the trolley.

Martin Luther King Memorial and other Monuments at Night

One of the newest monuments is the Martin Luther King Jr. Monument located in West Potomac Park south of the Mall. In addition to the sculpture the inscription wall is a highlight which contains 14 quotes from his speeches and writings. After the crowds have left for the day take time to read them and feel the sense of love and peace each of us have within.

When visiting the monuments at night you avoid the crowds and see the monuments in a very different light.

Lincoln Memorial

The National Harbor

The newest attraction in the DC area is the National Harbor which has shopping, food and the Capital Wheel! Take a water taxi to the harbor from two locations but if you are in Virginia combine it with a trip to the cobble-stoned streets of historic Alexandria.

The water taxi leaves on average every hour but check the schedules because it changes. You can purchase tickets online or at the waterfront. Usually there is not a problem with buying tickets at the last minute but if you purchase a round trip you have to reserve the return time.  The cost is $8 per person.

A trip is not complete until you ride the Capital Wheel!  The $15 Ferris wheel ride is not cheap but on a nice day you can see the Washington Monument, Maryland and Virginia! If you spring for the $50 experience it includes leather seats and a glass floor. When I was there I think it also included a media experience (Google TV) but I prefer to enjoy the view.

Capital Wheel National Harbor

Alexandria

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and Georgetown Harbour

OK, if it is Sunday you can attend mass or just check out the largest basilica in the United States before indulging in a brunch along the waterfront at recently restored Georgetown Harbour.

Hains Point

After a day of touring and shopping drive down to Hains Point in East Potomac Park and enjoy a little bit of nature. Here along the waterfront you can watch people jog by or from the other side of the island watch the planes land at Reagan National Airport as the sun sets. Many families and couples take time to walk along the path under the shade trees.

Washington DC is a wonderful place to visit because there is so much to see and do beyond the Washington Mall and popular monuments. Just when you think you have done it all there is something new to experience!

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The John Coltrane Jazz and Blues Festival

This is a hidden gem held in High Point, North Carolina

This year was my first time attending and I was totally surprised that such a great event was held only 1.5hr away from the Raleigh-Durham area. 

Poncho Sanchez

This Festival is held over Labor Day Weekend in High Point, North Carolina the home of talented jazz artist the late John Coltrane.  The venue is at the Oak Hollow Festival Park along side the lake as beautiful back drop.

It was a beautiful afternoon and evening of great Jazz surrounded by so many friendly people.

This festival has brought artist to the areas such as Ironing Board Sam, Boney James, Christian Scott Quintet, Poncho Sanchez, Laleh Hathaway and George Duke.

Snarky Puppy

What to know if you plan to go

Bring a lawn chair

You can bring food and water but no coolers

Parking is about $5. If you get there early enough parking is fairly close. They do have golf carts that will transport you but good luck getting one. 

They will check your bags.

Prefer to eat once you arrive... there is food...hotdogs, chicken, fish...prices are from $10-15

They also serve beer and mixed drinks

ATM machine is available

A few vendors selling goods

Is VIP worth it?...It is 2X the price of a general admission ticket. It includes food, parking, two drink tickets and center seating in a provided chair.  The only real benefit in my opinion is the seating view (maybe). It is the section in front of the stage on the grass. The downside, the chairs provided are close together not much room for spreading out.  They will seat  you once your entire party has arrived.

What to Know about General Admission

I haven’t been to this venue before so I decided to try General Admission and was happy I did.  

Bring your own chair.  The only issue I have with general admission is that the seating options are limited for a great view of the stage. The grounds are fairly level.  If you sit behind the VIP section their chairs are higher so if your chair is low they block your view.  Side stage view is pretty good but it is on asphalt, can generate a little heat.  If you bring a tent you can set it up behind the seating.  

There are two large monitors for those who are further back. My suggestion is to make the monitors a little larger and have one turned towards the water so those on that side can see as well.

Tents are welcomed but they will be placed behind chairs near the lake shore.

Lalah Hathaway

I can’t wait to make this an annual Labor Day event!!

http://www.coltranejazzfest.com/

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Mayberry; Mount Airy, NC Five Must Sees

Inspiration for the Andy Griffith Show

This small town is located a few minutes north of Pilot Mountain off Highway 52 near the foothills of North Carolina. It is a cute place to spend a mid afternoon.

#1 - Tour Downtown Mt. Airy in Andy’s Squad Car

For a quick tour take a ride in Andy’s Squad Car. The Sheriff’s office is located next to Walley’s gas station which is on the edge of the downtown historical area. After the tour walk over to the Sheriff’s office and take a picture of yourself in the jail cell.

#2 - Walley’s Service Station

After the  tour walk over to Walley’s Service Station for a Soda Pop (North Carolina Favorites) and fun Souvenirs.

#3 - Siamese Twin Exhibit

I highly recommend the Eng and Chang Bunker Siamese Twin Exhibit next to the Andy Griffith Playhouse. These men from Siam were joined together at the chest traveled the world which is how the name “Siamese Twin” was coined. They settled in Mt. Airy and married two sisters in which they had kids.  Yes, interesting right :-)

You can walk form Walley’s Station to the Exhibit but it is a little bit of a hike so I do recommend driving especially on a hot day.

#4 Miss Angel’s Pies and Bakery and Snappy’s Lunch

You can’t leave Mt. Airy’s Main St. without a taste of the town. OK, if you are a pie fan then you will be in heaven if you visit Miss Angel’s...if you love homemade cake, muffins or ice-cream than you want to stop and and take something with you!!

Make sure you visit Snappy’s Lunch and try their famous Pork Chop Sandwich. This local eatery mentioned in the Andy Griffith show is a favorite but get their early before they close!

#5 Stroll Downtown Mt Airy - Main St

Main Street is where most of the attractions are located. Stop in the visitor’s center to pick up a map and for any current information. There are a few gift and clothing shops and art galleries.  If you have an extra day this part of the state is known for their beautiful wineries. I recommend Shelton Vineyards of Dobson.

The historic area is not far from hotels and modern restaurants but it is fun to take a step back into history.

Enjoy!!!

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Madrid Spain - Got a Weekend!  Food,  Sites, Bull Fighting and Shopping

I only had a weekend so I had to get as much in as possible. It is a walkable city with plenty of metro stops. This is what I recommend...

El Rastro is the largest market in Europe. Antiques, crafts and everyday goods. Get there first thing in the morning because it will be crowded. This picture was taken 45 mins after opening.

Take the time to see the beautiful churches.  

El Jeronimo el Real Church Day or Nite it is beautiful

Almudena Cathedral - Across the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace - the largest  palace in Europe

Centro Cultural Conde Duque  - Check to see if there is an event going on. There is an outdoor cafe across the street.

There are lovey gardens and parks everywhere. The Buen Retiro is near the edge of the old city center and a great place for a run. (gardens pictured near the royal palace)

Take a break to have a cocktail or lunch at one of the many outdoor cafes in a quiet plaza. I would avoid Plaza Mayor for lunch but it is great for people watching. It is very busy.

Wander around to enjoy the architecture.

Yes Bull Fighting! In Madrid it usually takes place on Sunday evenings but during festivals such as the San Isidro they take place every day during that week. Purchase your tickets early (online) and sit in the shade or partial shade seats. Sun seats are cheaper but it can be very hot!!

It was tough to watch but I felt it was worth seeing. The horses are extremely skillful! I didn’t stay for the whole event.

Las Ventas is on the subway stop and where the events take place. This is where I booked my tickets and picked them up a block away from the arena.

http://www.ticketstoros.com/espanol/teyci.html

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Rincon, Puerto Rico

Rincon PR

Where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic Ocean

Why did I select Rincon over the beaches near San Juan?

The natural beaches on the westcoast of Puerto Rico are nice. Most of the good beaches around San Juan are created by the resorts or hotels so I wanted the natural beauty.

Surfing or Swimming

Both!!! The westcoast of Puerto Rico is known for surfing and has hosted international surfing tournaments. Not into surfing?  Just a few miles south are the calm seas of the Caribbean with terrific snorkeling and swimming.   

Wedding Destination

It was surprising to find out that Rincon was one of the biggest wedding destinations and while in the salon for a pedicure we were invited to a wedding reception.  The people are so very nice!

RINCON Puerto Rico Things to Do

If you are in town on a Thursday evening visit the Craft Fair in the town center, Can’t miss it! There is food and hand made art from children’s toys to jewelry. North of town center on highway 413 there is some good snorkeling at Steps beach and the Rincon lighthouse. Get there early for parking. 

How to Get There

Rincon is only a few hours away from San Juan (highway 22 to 2) by car. The Expressway is a toll road so make sure you have an express pass or some change.  Highway 2 is a business 4 lane road with lights so once you get off the expressway it is a little slower.  

Lodging

You can visit the westcoast in a day but I would recommend at least 1 hotel night (but more if possible). Reserve in advance because many of the accommodations are vacation homes.

Food

La Cambija Bar and Grill is great with outdoor seating. There is also a Pizza joint where you can get a small-medium pizza and coke for $5! Two grocery stores (bring your own bags) and of course fastfood!

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San Juan, Puerto Rico

This Caribe Hilton Peacock Luvs Photo Ops

San Felipe del Morro Fort is lit up at night

The lighthouse at the fort

A view from inside the fort

How about this as your front lawn?

There are cool hidden tunnels and stairwells in the fort for easy navigation during a battle

La Perla is colorful but be careful in that area especially after sunset.

Colorful Old San Juan

Is this really comfortable?

The Turtles are even beautiful in PR

The nice beaches on the Eastside of the Island are mainly man made. Southeast near Fajardo are nice. If you are looking for nice natural beaches they are on the westside of the island.

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Rincon Puerto Rico

Fun in a small surfing village. What to do while you are there...

La Cara del Indio is a sculpture dedicated to the Taino Indians

This is visible on the westcoast of Puerto Rico in Isabela. It is a beautiful sight on highway 2.

This is the beach outside of our beachhouse in Rincon. The beaches on the westcoast of Puerto Rico are nicer than the eastcoast.  More beach, not many people on some stretches and some beaches don’t have strong waves. This stretch is great for kids. Some of the beaches are better for surfing.

I love lighthouses and there are several on the westcoast of Puerto Rico. The Rincon Lighthouse is a few miles north of the town. A very nice park overlooking the ocean.

Steps Beach is on the well known highway 413 in Rincon. It is great for snorkeling. Wear your water shoes because it is rocky at some point.

Rincon Puerto Rico Cats and Chickens!!!

Don’t be surprised if you send cats and chickens hanging around on the street, beach and yards.

We joined a VW Bug Quinceanera procession in Isabela.  It was so much fun riding around town with them!

Isabela Cathedral...A wedding was going on when we were there and the fashions were wonderful!!!

Gozalandia Falls at San Sebastian are lovely there are two of them. This is the first one closest to the parking lot.  Bring your water, food and swim suit. There is diving but be careful!

The falls at Gozalandia 

These falls near San Sebastian are easier to get to than the first ones. The hike is about 15mins from the parking lot where there is swimming. The most fun is driving to the falls...the roads are small curvy and steep.  Make sure you have detailed directions for getting there because they can be easy to miss. If coming from Rincon the turn off to the drive is on the left.

Entrance to the San Sebastian Falls

I love these beautiful orange flowers that are everywhere!

[globesposure]

Weekend in Madrid, Spain

Got a weekend...check it out

The Logistics

Spain has always been on my must visit list but I didn’t have enough time to make trip.  Finally after a business trip in Europe I felt I couldn’t wait any longer even though I only had the weekend. 

Why Madrid? There was a festival during the time I was in Spain so I felt it was the best time to see part of the culture.

Getting There

I flew to Madrid from Paris but you can also take the train.  Since my time was brief flying was the best option. 

Try to arrive earlier in the day because it will give you time to find your hotel with daylight. Taxis don’t always know where the hotels are located or the entrance may be on a walkway away from the main street.

Avoid Vueling Airlines-If getting to your location on time, getting there safely and with your bags is important stay away from this airline.  I took this airline because it was cheap but you get what you pay for.  Now I don’t have my luggage. Two of the planes had problems and they didn’t have enough staff to check us in.  We believe the reason we were delayed for hours was because they were hoping to combine flights.

 If in Madrid Spain STAY AWAY from Vueling.

The airport is about 20-30mins from the city center depending on traffic. I would recommend taking a taxi instead of the train to the city if this is your first time because depending on your hotel location it may require multiple changes.

Places to stay

It was a tough decision but I looked for a hotel near public transit and away from the major plazas.  

Even though I preferred the location (Gran Ave) I wouldn’t recommend the first hotel but the second hotel was great.

Ibis Styles Madrid Prado was nice. It is in a very pleasant area with some high end shops even though it is a little bit of a walk from some of the main attractions. Rooms are a nice size!

Bull Fighting Tix

Sunday nights seemed to be when they take place but during festivals they are held more frequently.  I purchased my tickets online from the below link and picked them up a block from Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas. 

Select seats in the shade or partial shade. It is hot so even though the seats are cheaper I wouldn’t recommend the ones on the sun (sol). 

I selected bull fight where horses were used because it was different from typical bull fighting. 

Rent a cushion for a couple dollars because the concrete seats are hard. 

There is smoking so be prepared. I also took in water and snacks in a small bag. They don’t allow large bags. Yes, you can take pictures.

http://www.ticketstoros.com/ingles/teyci.html

Safety

I felt safe but there are places where pic-pocketing is prevalent.

[globesposure]

Madrid Spain Taste

My focus was seeing as much as possible for the short time I was in Madrid so I didn’t eat much but what I did eat was pretty  good.

This Cod Salad was amazing! This is now my favorite new salad to make.

Cute little cupcakes

I was expecting a pleasant cup cake and iced tea but this blew me away. The vegan cup cake had lots of flavor. The iced herbal tea...awesome!!!  I wish the vegan food had this kind of flavor in the US.  I would recommend Celicioso!!

Location: Cl Horteleza 3 Madrid.

Mango and Raspberry Spirits!