Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) |
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February 29, 2024
Kennedy Space Center Port Canaveral Florida
January 17, 2024
Puerto Plata Dominican Republic
Puerto Plata Dominican Republic was a day stopover on Caribbean cruise, had booked a shore excursion to see the city and The Christ the Redeemer statue which is a famous landmark located at the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres. After a 10 minute walk to exit the Taino Bay Cruise Port, The tour bus was waiting for the group of folks that booked the tour. It takes about about half an hour to get from the Port to Mount Isabel de Torres.
One can see the beautiful beaches and the city of Puerto Plata Dominican Republic from the Mount, on the way down from Mount Isabel de Torres the group decided to walk half way down as suggested by the tour guide, not an easy hike down though very scenic and beautiful through lush green gardens.
The tour continued and the tour bus drove towards Fort San Felipe, a historic fortress built in the 16th century. We drove through The Malecon street which is about a 3 kilometer Picturesque drive on the oceanfront.
Next stop on the tour is Parque Independencia which is a gazebo structure in city center across from Cathedral of St. Philip the Apostle. We did go inside the Cathedral and spent a good 20 minutes there.
Independence Square Puerto Plata |
This is the main square of Puerto Plata where you can walk to the cathedral. the two statues are of national heroes Juan Pablo Duarte and General Gregorio Luperon. From this square, we walked to the surrounding attractions Umbrella Street, and Victorian pink alley Paseo de Dona Blanca
Pink Alley Puerto Plata |
We stopped at souvenir shops in downtown, they all charge tourist prices. The tour bus dropped us off at the Taino Bay Cruise port entrance, Taino Bay has music blasting with bars and shops selling T shirts, coffee, chocolates ect, there is also a pool and a lazy river, there is also free WiFi
It was a hot afternoon in December and I took a free Tuk-Tuk ride from Taino Bay to the Ship, and tipped the driver 1 USD.
Questions or comments? Do share this post on social media, Thanks!
December 17, 2023
Things to do in Vilnius Lithuania
Exploring Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, on a walking tour can be a delightful way to immerse yourself in its rich history, charming architecture, and vibrant culture.
Arrival - Took a bus from Riga Latvia, cost was around 15 USD
Stay: Stayed at a hotel on Gediminas Avenue which is the main street of Vilnius, It connects the historic city center and the Cathedral Square to the Lithuanian Parliament. Walking distance to most tourist attractions. Gediminas Avenue is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Presidential Palace Vilnius |
Did the walking tour of Vilnius, the tour starts at 9 AM, and the meeting point is Cathedral Square
Cathedral Square: At the heart of Vilnius, where you'll find the stunning Vilnius Cathedral and the iconic Gediminas Tower on the hill overlooking the city. Took some time to explore the square and its surroundings.
Vilnius Cathedral |
Vilnius University: Admire the architecture of Vilnius University, one of the oldest universities in Eastern Europe, and the stunning St. John's Church and its bell tower.
Pilies Street: Pilies Street, a picturesque cobblestone street filled with boutiques, souvenir shops, and cozy cafes. This street is a true representation of the city's charm.
Presidential Palace: As we continue on Pilies Street, you'll pass by the Presidential Palace. Stop to take photos and learn about Lithuania's government.
Town Hall Square: Reach Town Hall Square, surrounded by colorful buildings and the Vilnius Town Hall. In winter, this square turns into a lovely Christmas market.
Užupis District: Cross the Vilnia River to enter the artistic and bohemian Užupis district. This self-proclaimed "Republic of Užupis" is filled with art galleries, sculptures, and a unique atmosphere.
Angel of Užupis: Look for the Angel of Užupis sculpture, a symbol of the district's artistic spirit and independence.
St. Peter and Paul's Church: Head back towards the Old Town and visit the impressive St. Peter and Paul's Church, known for its intricate and decorative interior.
Vilnius' Gates: The remains of the city's historic gates: the Gates of Dawn and the Medininkai Gate.
Literatų Street: Stroll along Literatų Street, lined with colorful artwork and tributes to Lithuania's literary heritage.
The Bastion of Vilnius Defensive Wall: The tour ended by exploring the bastion, a part of Vilnius' defensive fortifications, offering historical insights and panoramic views.
December 12, 2023
Old Town Panama Visit
Exploring the old town of Panama City, also known as Casco Viejo, is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the area. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with charming colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. Visited Panama in February, spent a day in old town Panama and the next day crossing the Panama canal
Things to do and see in Old town Panama
1. Plaza de la Independencia:
This historic square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and is a great place to learn about the area's history. You'll find the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Municipal Palace here.
2. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral:
Take a moment to step inside the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture. The cathedral has an impressive altar and beautiful stained glass windows.
3. Walk along Avenida Central:
Avenida Central is a lively street with many stores, cafes, and restaurants. It's located in Casco Viejo, between Plaza Santa Ana and Plaza Cinco de Mayo. The colorful buildings and vibrant atmosphere make this a delightful walk.
4. Stop at Plaza Bolivar:
Plaza Bolivar is a charming square named after Simon Bolivar, a prominent figure in Latin American history. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a great spot to relax and people-watch.
5. Explore the San Felipe Neri Church:
Continue your walk to the San Felipe Neri Church. This church played a significant role in Panama's history and has a distinctive yellow façade.
6. Visit Plaza de Francia:
Plaza de Francia offers panoramic views of Panama City's skyline and the ocean. It's a tribute to the French engineers who attempted to build the Panama Canal in the 19th century
8. Wander through Plaza de la Catedral:
This picturesque square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. The Plaza de la Catedral is a great place to take a break and soak in the atmosphere.
9. End at Bóvedas and the Sea Wall:
Finish your walking tour at Bóvedas, a series of archways that were once used as dungeons but now house souvenir shops. Nearby, you'll find the sea wall, a perfect place to take in views of the ocean and the modern skyline.
Questions or Comments?
November 10, 2023
Fish Market Lake Victoria Kampala Uganda
Was the only tourist at the market. Below are few photos, did ask for permission before taking photos.
Lake Victoria |
Fish being auctioned of at the Market
|
You can Pick the fish you want |
They'll fry it in front of you |
Fishing boats |
Dinner is served |
October 18, 2023
Things to do in Ljubljana Slovenia
Franciscan Church |
Ljubljana Slovenia Dragon Bridge |
October 13, 2023
Antarctica Cruise Costs and Tips
In January 2020 I went on a Expedition Cruise to King George Island in Antarctica. In my 20 plus years of travelling off and on, had already been to other 6 continents and this was a trip of a life time.
Planning - Started planning for my Antarctica trip in 2018, looked at several different companies, there are few good one, I went with Adventure Life, its based out the USA, there are several tour operators offering tours to Antarctica in Europe and Australia, I just didn't want to deal with a company overseas in case of any issues. There are other Tour operators in the USA, the price Adventure Life had to offer was within my budget and had enough time to save and pay for it.
Dealing with an overseas tour operator have not had issues with day tours or train tickets, though twice buying Air Plane tickets turned out to be a bad experience.
Costs - flew from Texas to Buenos Aires, Argentina depending on where you are flying from you Airfare is your first cost, My flight was delayed 24 hours due to bad weather, I had given myself 2 days in Buenos Aires before taking a flight to Ushuaia and had I rushed it, that would not been good for me, so add to the flight costs 2 night hotel, food and Taxi costs in Buenos Aires and 1 night in Ushuaia.
Ushuaia Argentina is where most ships to Antarctica will leave from, you will also need to get Health Insurance coverage, the company used for my Health Insurance was World Nomads.
The Expedition Cruise cost was around Five thousand USD, that included a flight back from King George Island to Punta Arenas Chile and a night hotel stay in Punta Arenas Chile.
From Punta Arenas Chile I had to pay for my way home to Texas, of course since I was already in South America I spent another 10 days in Chile and Bolivia before returning home.
When all said and done, my cost was eight thousand plus U$D.
One can also find tourist agencies selling last minute tours to Antarctica in Ushuaia's San Martin Avenue which is the main street, now Ushuaia is not a cheap destination so basically my suggestion is to plan ahead.
Tips - Most Ships will provide you with rubber boots for zodiac excursions, some tour companies will even provide a Water Proof Parks, check with your tour operator
You will need water proof Pants or coverings as you will get wet when going on the zodiac boats, the ones I took with me were Frogg Toggs that I bought on Amazon
Antarctica has no dock ports you will need to take boats to go ashore, be the first one to get on the boats and spend more time on land
Motion Sickness Pills, take some with you.
Informative Website
Happy Travels!
October 12, 2023
Santiago Chile Travel
Visited Santiago in January 2020
I left after 2 days
Airport to city takes about 30 minutes, have your hotel arrange for transportation to avoid any taxi scams.
Civil protests were taking place Chile in response to a raise in the Santiago Metro's subway fare, increased cost of living, and inequality in the country.
In Santiago the city streets one could see graffiti every where also burnt buildings and shops.
Protest were still going on, there were protestors trying to break into shops for looting and armored police trucks were spray tear gas to disperse the crowds.
Questions or comments?
September 18, 2023
Explore Austin Texas
Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake |
Texas State Capital |
4. Food and Dining:
Home Slice Pizza on Congress Ave |
September 12, 2023
Top 10 of Everything at India
Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple, Amritsar) |
If you are looking forward to embracing the holy beauty of culture, diversity in religions, spiritual abodes and lip-smacking street foods, then India is the place to be.
I thought of working on the best places to visit, eat food at, accommodate you to and embrace the beauty of and came up with this enticing list of spell-binding wonders. Without taking much time, here’s our Top 10 of everything, when at India:
Safety: Being an Indian, I find India to be very safe, to a foreigner, I would suggest using common sense and you'll be just fine.
Airport Immigration Check and Visa Airport Immigration Check is quick and Easy, citizens of most countries need a Visa to enter India, more on eVisa Click Here!
Trains: India has one of the world's largest railway networks, Passengers can book tickets through mobile app, or at http://www.indianrail.gov.in/
TIP Groupon is very Popular in India
1. Historical / Architectural Monuments:
India’s history dates back to 5000+ years and have been offering a rich civilization and cultural traits to ponder upon. Offering a scientific approach to its architecture, standing proud and tall letting the tourists dwell into the history behind the making of these spell-binding structures, India lets you embrace its traditional and cultural appreciations with all warm hearts.
When in India, do stop by at the following sights, click
on the links:
1. Monuments of Hampi (Karnataka)
2. Taj Mahal (Agra),
3. Sanchi Stupa (Madhya Pradesh),
4. Ajanta and Ellora Caves ( Maharashtra)
5. Jantar Mantar (Rajasthan)
6. Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu)
7. Sun Temple (Orissa)
8. Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh)
9. Jaisalmer Fort (Rajasthan)
10. Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple, Amritsar)
2. Eating and Drinking in India:
With diversity in cultural and religious backgrounds, India has a beautiful array of lip-smacking cuisines to relinquish your taste buds. From Gol gappe to theplas, and mishti dohi to gulab jamun, Indian’s surely are big-time foodies and love their appetite.
Here’s a list of some of the best dishes you should try out at different states in India as follows:
1. Makke Di Roti and Sarson Ka Saag (Punjab)
2. Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepla (Gujrat)
3. Pav Bhaji, Thali peeth(Maharashtra)
4. Ker, Sangri, Gatte Ki Sabji (Rajasthan)
5. Sandesh, Daab Jhingri, Rasgulla and Mishti Dohi (West Bengal)
6. Momos, Thukpa, Gundruk (Sikkim)
7. Hyderabadi Biryani, Mirch Salan, Kodi Kura (Andhra Pradesh)
8. Masala Dosa, Chettinad Chicken, Rasam (Tamil Nadu)
9. Red Ant Chutney (Chattisgarh)
10. Masor Tenga (Assam)
3. Affordable and Safe Shelter Recommendations:
If you are the kind that looks forward to budget travelling then you should definitely try a hand at seeking shelter at a shrine, ashram or spiritual lodge. Here’s where you can return the favor as you do ‘seva’ (Hindi term that means selfless service as devotion). If you are not quite comfortable with the concept then you can look out for accommodation services from
1. Zostel
2. Holiday Homes
3. State Tourism Departments
4. Local Lodges
5. Couchsurfing
6. Rent a Bungalow
7. Inexpensive Hostels and Hotels
8. Dharamshalas
9. Paying Guest, Home stay (For slow travelers)
10. Religious institutions
Also, hotel rates are quite affordable and one can have a good stay at a comfy hotel for the price of 900-1500 Indian Rupees for a night.
4. Adventure and Fun Sports:
If you are looking forward to some fun activities and adventures whilst your stay at India then you should definitely visit these must-visit adventure sports destinations popular amongst Indians.
1. Skiing in Kashmir
2. Mountaineering in Uttarakhand
3. River Rafting in Himachal
4. Flying Fox in Kerala
5. Bungee Jumping in Karnataka
6. Water Sports (Swimming, Jet Skiing, Para Sailing, etc) in Goa
7. Paragliding in Maharashtra
8. Rock Climbing in Madhya Pradesh
9. Scuba Diving in Andaman
10. Trekking in Arunachal.
Jaisalmer Fort (Rajasthan) |
Apart from all these beautiful sights and attractions, India lets you trail through an array of beautiful and serene beaches, waterfalls and a wide canopy of forests, sanctuaries and national parks. Do not miss out on any of these places, you never know, one of the best of your adventures might await your presence at India.
If you think one of the destinations didn’t make up to the list, then comment below on your favorite destination, food, sport or idea of fun or travel that you experienced while at India.
Happy travelling to you!
August 29, 2023
One Day in Acapulco Mexico
As the sun rises over the shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean, the vibrant city of Acapulco comes to life with an energy that is both infectious and invigorating. The warm breeze carries with it a mix of salt and the scent of freshly prepared seafood, setting the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation.
Acapulco was Day stopover on my cruise to Cross The Panama Canal.
Safety: Found Acapulco to be safe for tourists.
Morning:
My day started with a stroll along the famous La Costera Avenue, a bustling waterfront boulevard that runs parallel to the beach. Street vendors are already setting up their stalls, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to colorful textiles. You stop by a local café and savor a traditional Mexican breakfast of chilaquiles, a dish made of tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, and eggs.
Acapulco Mexico |
With the morning sun casting a golden glow, I made my way to Playa Caleta, one of Acapulco's most iconic beaches. The soft sand beckons you to kick off your shoes and dip your toes into the refreshing waves. Locals and tourists alike are enjoying beach volleyball, building sandcastles, and basking in the sun.
Afternoon:
Took a Cab to The "Capilla de la Paz" (Chapel of Peace) Cost $30 round Trip From the Cruise terminal port, the cab driver did not speak any English, only Spanish.
The Capilla de la Paz is a stunning white chapel that sits atop a hill overlooking Acapulco Bay. It's known for its iconic design, breathtaking panoramic views, and its significance as a symbol of peace and spirituality in the region. The chapel was built in the late 20th century and has become one of the most recognizable and visited sites in Acapulco.
Architecture: The chapel's architecture is characterized by its modern and minimalist design. The clean lines and white facade stand out against the backdrop of the lush surrounding landscape and the azure waters of the bay. The simple yet striking design creates a sense of tranquility and serenity.
Giant Cross: One of the most prominent features of the chapel is the towering cross that stands in front of it. This cross is not only a religious symbol but also a symbol of hope and peace. It can be seen from various points around Acapulco and has become an iconic part of the city's skyline.
Panoramic Views: The main draw of visiting the Capilla de la Paz is the breathtaking panoramic views it offers. From the chapel's elevated location, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of Acapulco Bay, the cityscape, and the surrounding mountains, the Capilla de la Paz is a must-visit destination in Acapulco.
August 26, 2023
Singapore Places to Eat
Sultan Mosque Singapore |
For Indian food, my place to go is Komala Vilas: A well-known spot for authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. Also Khansama Tandoori Restaurant: Offers a range of North Indian dishes, including delicious tandoori options.
August 24, 2023
3 Days in Belgrade Serbia
Belgrade Sign located by Sava River |
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia has beautiful architecture, a vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and some of the best book fairs, movie festivals, theaters, and events in Europe. The city is tourist friendly, has low crime rate and friendly people who are happy to help.
Currency Serbian Dinar is the official currency though I was able to use credit cards and Euros everywhere. At the time of writing this post 1 USD equals 108 Serbian Dinar.
Besides walking and a bus ride from the Airport, took mostly cabs. Could not find Uber in Belgrade.
Day 1. Arrived at Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade on a early morning flight from Ljubljana Slovenia, As of 2023 Serbia is not part of European union, USA passport holders do not need a visa for tourism. Got local currency at the Airport ATM, and once outside the Airport looked for buses to go to Stari Grad or Old town, that's where my hotel was, conveniently located to several eating places and tourist attractions. Found the bus and driver was very helpful and let me know where to get off, it was a good 45 minute ride from the Airport to Stari Grad in Belgrade.
Checked into the hotel and headed to Knez Mihailova Street: A pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, often considered the heart of Belgrade. It's a great place for shopping, people-watching, and soaking in the city's atmosphere. After a lot of walking it was Time for some world famous Serbian pancakes
Day 2. After Breakfast, headed towards Republic Square, a 10 minute walk from my hotel to take a walking tour of Belgrade
National Theatre Belgrade |
Republic Square: This is one of the main squares in Belgrade, surrounded by historic buildings and important landmarks. The National Museum and the National Theatre are located here. The walking tour started in front of the Prince Mihailo Monument Statue in Republic Square.
The tour goes towards Skadarlija: Often referred to as the "Bohemian Quarter," Skadarlija is a cobblestone street known for its traditional restaurants, art galleries, and charming atmosphere.
Belgrade Fortress: Walk uphill to reach the Belgrade Fortress, a historic site that offers panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Explore the fortress walls, visit the Victor Monument, and enjoy the peaceful Kalemegdan Park within the complex.
Photo taken from the Belgrade fortress of Sava and Danube rivers |
After the tour ended, I met up tourists from India and Sweden and shared a cab to visit Hram Svetog Save which is a Serbian Orthodox church in Belgrade
This is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and an iconic symbol of Belgrade. The interior is equally impressive with beautiful frescoes and intricate details. The church is located on the Vračar plateau and The name translates to "The Temple of Saint Sava".