Arvin Travels: USA

Showing posts with label USA. Show all posts

November 7, 2025

Explore Austin Texas

is a vibrant city known for its , , , and delicious food. It is also home to the , one of the largest schools in the USA, , an annual set of film, interactive media, and music festivals. Home to at .

, above “” 1720 S. First Street, Austin

Here are some popular things to do in Austin:

1. Live Music and Entertainment: Sixth Street: Known as the "," Sixth Street offers a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues featuring a diverse range of genres.

ACL Live at The Moody Theater: A popular music venue that hosts concerts, performances, and tapings of the Austin City Limits TV show.

The Continental Club: A historic music venue featuring live music, including blues, rock, and country.

2. Outdoor Activities:

Lady Bird Lake: Enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or simply take a stroll along the scenic hike-and-bike trail around Lady Bird Lake.

Zilker Park: A large urban park offering picnic areas, (a natural spring-fed swimming pool), and various recreational facilities.

Mount Bonnell: Climb the stairs to the top for panoramic views of the city and .

3. Cultural Attractions:

Bullock Texas State History Museum: Learn about the history of Texas through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays.

The Blanton Museum of Art: Explore a wide range of art collections from various periods and cultures.

Texas State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the state's impressive capitol building and learn about Texas history and government.

4. Food and Dining:

Food Trucks: Austin is known for its food truck scene, offering a wide range of cuisines from tacos to gourmet doughnuts

Franklin Barbecue: Famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, be prepared to wait in line for this culinary experience.

South Congress Avenue: Explore eclectic shops and dine in trendy restaurants along this bustling street.

on Congress Ave

5. Outdoor Markets:

Austin Farmers' Market: Visit local farmers' markets to find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.

Hope Outdoor Gallery: An outdoor graffiti park where artists create colorful murals and visitors can admire the artwork.

6. Natural Springs:

Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool in Zilker Park that offers a refreshing swim year-round.

Hamilton Pool Preserve: A stunning natural pool formed by a collapsed grotto, surrounded by lush vegetation and a waterfall.

7. Nightlife and Entertainment:

Rainey Street: A trendy area with bungalow-style bars and food trucks, offering a unique nightlife experience.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: Enjoy movies, food, and drinks in a fun and interactive movie theater setting.

University of Texas Austin

Questions or Comments?

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September 27, 2024

Explore Sydney Nova Scotia

Sydney, Nova Scotia, is a picturesque town located on Cape Breton Island, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. This was the first stop on my cruise from Boston to Greenland.

Outside the port where the ship docks there are several Taxi drivers eager to show you the Town, as a solo tourist the prices were high, for a group of 3 or 4 people they would be reasonable. So decided to venture on my own and walked along the Sydney Waterfront a leisurely walk along the waterfront boardwalk, with beautiful views of Sydney Harbor. The area features benches, public art, and picnic spots.

Situated on the Sydney waterfront is the Big Fiddle is an iconic 60-foot fiddle sculpture, a tribute to Cape Breton's musical heritage. It’s a great photo opportunity!

Big Fiddle

Continued my walk past the street musicians and came across the Merchant Mariner Monument.

Merchant Mariner Monument

This bronze statue commemorates the brave merchant mariners who served during World War II. The sculpture shows four figures, representing different aspects of their service

A sailor on the dock: This figure symbolizes the courage and determination of the merchant mariners who faced dangerous conditions at sea.
A sailor reaching out: This figure represents the camaraderie and mutual support among the crew members.
A sailor struggling to board a lifeboat: This figure depicts the perilous situations that the merchant mariners often encountered.
A sailor looking out to sea: This figure symbolizes the hope and resilience of the merchant mariners who endured hardships and dangers.

The monument also features a plaque that provides additional information about the history of the merchant marine and their significant contributions during the war. The inscription on the plaque reads

"We were the forgotten service. We were the unsung heroes. We were the merchant mariners."

From the harbor walk I ventured into the town saw a arts and craft fair, the fair was nothing to write home about. The downtown area is not too far from where the ship docks, walked along George Street which is a popular downtown location with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Came across Highland Arts Theatre. It is a historic building that was originally constructed as a Presbyterian church in 1911.

Tired from all the walking, headed towards the Port of Sydney where the cruise ship was docked, there are all kinds of souvenir Shops on the way, bought a couple of T-Shirts, and was just in time to get some lunch as the buffet closes at 3 PM on the ship.

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September 25, 2024

Discovering St. John’s, Newfoundland

St. John's is a Hidden Gem of Canada

Was on a cruise from Boston to Greenland and had a stopover at St John's on the way back to Boston. The plan was to explore the city on my own, and it was raining so had to go with Plan B which is no plan. As I ventured off the ship and walked across the pier a person approached me with a city tour for US $60. Took his offer and 10 minutes later I was on the tour bus and off we went to our first stop

Signal Hill

Signal Hill is a prominent hill overlooking the city of St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Scenic views, The hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, harbor, and the North Atlantic Ocean.

Cabot Tower

Above Picture is The iconic tower, located on Signal Hill, there is a gift/souvenir shop inside the Tower.

Quidi Vidi Village

Our Next stop was Quidi Vidi Village which is a charming fishing village and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring St. John's, offering a glimpse into the city's maritime heritage and natural beauty.

There is Quidi Vidi Brewery, selling craft beers. Now the bus tour passes through several historical and tourist sites. Sites like Jellybean Row which is one of the most iconic and charming features of St. John’s, Newfoundland. This vibrant street is famous for its brightly colored row houses, which have become a symbol of the city.

Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

This was our 3rd and final stop, it was still raining. This lighthouse is the most easterly point in North America, offering stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The visitor center provides information about the history of the lighthouse and the surrounding area.

On a Rainey Day the tour was worth every penny and turned out to be peachy.

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February 29, 2024

Kennedy Space Center Port Canaveral Florida

Visited the Kennedy Space Center in Port Canaveral Florida, used a tour company as I don't drive and there is no public transportation is available for the visitor complex. It takes about half an Hour to get there from Orlando, Florida

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers launch viewing, a Saturn V rocket, and the real Space Shuttle Atlantis

TIP: leave souvenir shopping for the last stop as you might not want to be caring around a bag of souvenir, as the space complex is huge.

Above: The Rocket Garden showcases various historic rockets and missiles from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo eras. It's a great place to explore and take pictures with iconic space vehicles. As you enter the complex, you'll see the Rocket Garden to your left Side. Our tour guide ha suggested we do the Apollo/Saturn Center first as that is a 15 minute bus ride from the Visitors center, The bus tour is included with daily admission and departs every 15 minutes.

On our bus ride we passed the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida is the world's largest single-story building. It's used to assemble and house pre-manufactured space vehicle components, such as the Saturn V, the Space Shuttle, and the Space Launch System.

Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB)

We arrived at the Apollo/Saturn Center. This center provides an in-depth look at the Apollo missions, including the Saturn V rocket, which took astronauts to the Moon. Exhibits include moon rocks, astronaut memorabilia, and multimedia presentations.

Above Picture is the Engines of the Apollo Rocket, give your self a good hour and half at the center. I did go outside to have a look at the Launch Pad which was being prepared for Space X rocket launch, its at a distance and could not get a good Picture. Depending on the timing of your visit, you might have the opportunity to witness a rocket launch. Check the launch schedule and plan accordingly.

I did touch the Moon Rock before talking the bus back to the center. At the center my next stop was Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit Hall. Spent another hour going through all the exhibits.

One can see space-related documentaries and films in the IMAX Theater, offering a cinematic experience with stunning visuals and surround sound. Also checkout the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, which pays tribute to the men and women who have made significant contributions to space exploration.

My last stop was the gift shop where you can find space-themed memorabilia.

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October 18, 2022

Las Vegas Tips 2022

Visited Las Vegas Nevada in March 2022, my second time in Vegas, link to my previous Post

I flew on a direct flight from Austin Texas to Las Vegas, the flight and Airports enforce Mask Policy due to covid 19. In Vegas however there is no Mask enforced in hotels, casinos, eating establishments or shows.

Vegas Airport to Hotel - I used Ride Share and the cost was $15 from the airport to the middle of Vegas Strip.

Safety - Vegas is generally safe, however there are scams, avoid anyone offering anything free on the streets or Women asking to take photos with them, use common sense you'll be fine.

My Hotel Suggestion - I stayed in a hotel in the middle of the Las Vegas Strip, from my past Vegas visit experience one thing I learnt, I did not want to spend all my vacation walking, taking buses and ride shares instead I wanted to enjoy my time in Las Vegas. Everywhere I went or did was in the Mid strip within 15 minutes of walking, even then I did end up walking a lot. I did take a day trip to Antelope Canyon and Horse Shoe Bend, the bus picked me up right outside my hotel and dropped me back at the same location.

Resort fee - The Hotels in addition to the room rate will charge a resort fee, you might be able to avoid the fee if you are a high stakes gambler or stay off strip, both of which I was not willing to do, ended up paying $40 a night in resort fee, there is no avoiding it.

Food - For breakfast I ate at Mon Ami Gabi located in the Paris hotel, Make reservations as that place is always full or at least it was the two times I was there, I had the Poached eggs with Salmon, and it was really good. I also ate at various fast food places as Vegas meals can get expensive.

The Linq Promenade - This is a must do walk in Vegas, Located center strip across from Caesar’s Palace Hotel it has everything from shopping, dining and entertainment. It was less then a 15 minute walk from my hotel. Linq has the world famous High Roller, a 550 foot observation wheel, which offers a 360 degree view of Las Vegas. I was there on a Friday at 4 PM and paid $30 for a 30 minute ride on the High roller, after 5 PM the prices go up. I ate at Gordon Ramsay Fish and Chips, the cost of fish, fries and a soft drink was $20, it was very busy both times I went there.

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at Paris Las Vegas

The elevator will take you 46 stories high on the viewing deck of the Eiffel Tower. Known as one of the most romantic spots in Las Vegas, this is another great attraction. I paid $30 for an anytime ticket and went there at 5:30 PM just in time to see the Bellagio fountain show.

Shows - During this Visit I went to see Absinthe at Cesar's Palace, this is one of the best rated shows in Vegas, it is an Adult rated show, it was well worth the $190 I spent on the ticket. The show is in a Tent in the court yard of the hotel

What is your favorite Las Vegas tips for tourists?

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September 10, 2022

Hot Springs Arkansas

How to get to Hot Springs - Driving is the best way to get to Hot Springs, Drove from Fort Smith, Arkansas to Hot Springs on a two and half hour scenic drive via highway 71 to highway 270; the views are spectacular.

Some History - Hot Springs was a popular hangout in the early 1900's for Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, and other mobsters. Al Capone used to stay at the Arlington hotel.

Nature - With Lake Ouachita, Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine and awesome walking trails, its a great place for outdoors enthusiasts.

Stay and Food - I stayed overnight at an Airbnb within walking distance to the bathhouse row. For food Diablos has delicious food, its across the street from the visitors center. There are Bed and Breakfasts in the downtown area, one can get the info at the visitors center.

Things to do in Hot Springs Arkansas

Bathhouse Row road (Central Avenue), take a hot bath with natural spring water, also there are several eating places, souvenir gift shops and attractions; this is the heart of Hot springs. Start at the visitors center at 629 Central ave, and get a walking tour map and walk on both sides of the Avenue. One can fill up spring water at one of the free water fountains.

Bathhouse Row Hot Springs Arkansas

Hot Springs Murals

Picture above of Quapaw Mural, on Central avenue across from Buckstaff Bathhouse.

A lot of work must have gone into making these massive murals. Walk along Central avenue from Olive street to Fountain street past the bathhouse row and you will see 16 murals representing various art themes.

Get a map from the tourist office and all the murals are marked on the map.

Hot Springs Mountain Tower

Picture taken from the Tower, what a scenic drive. One drives to the top of the mountain on windy roads and you'll arrive to the top where you go through a Gift shop and take the elevator to a history or museum floor, a lot of fact and fiction info about Hot Springs with pictures on display. One floor above is the look out floor of the tower with 360 views of the city. Cost to take the elevator is $12.

Along Central avenue you see Duck Tours, land and water truck type vehicles from WWII, I didn't do the tour. Also there is the Arkansas Alligator farm and petting Zoo, for families with kids, as well as go-karts and laser tag. A visit to Anthony Chapel which is part of Garvan Woodland Gardens is something to consider as well.

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#VisitHotSprings

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March 21, 2022

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend 2022

In March of 2022, took a trip from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend in Page Arizona. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are two of the top attractions in Page, Arizona. Antelope Canyon is a narrow slot canyon with colorful rock walls and formations. Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe-shaped meander in the Colorado River.

Antelope Canyon can only be visited on a guided tour. The canyon is divided into three areas: Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Antelope Canyon X.

The canyon was carved by wind and water over time. A Navajo guide can help you photograph the shifting light and creamy colors of the sandstone canyon.

Horseshoe Bend is less than 5 miles from Antelope Canyon. It's about a mile hike to the overlook.

The price of the trip was US$ 229, and $20 in tips so total of $250, had booked the trip through a Tour company, you can do a search online and pick one. My tour included the transport and tickets to sites, a Navajo guide that was extremely knowledgeable and walked us through the Antelope Canyon’s sculpted sandstone walls, no lunch was included. The tour bus driver did have water bottles free to anyone on the tour, and did stop on the way back at a fast food place for anyone wanting to eat.

I was at the Pickup location at 5:30 AM, the bus was already there and left at around 6 AM, it took over 5 hours to get to Page Arizona, the drive is really scenic. One has to be somewhat fit to go up and down the steep staircase in the Lower Canyon.

Before booking the tour, there were 2 choices, upper or lower Antelope canyon, the choice I made was Lower Canyon as one sees the daylight coming through the narrow openings from the top provides multiple kinds of light reflections, its like amazing. Also Lower Canyon is more narrow, and is more expensive if going on a tour or atleast in my case.

In March of 2022 face coverings or masks were Mandatory and one's temperature was checked.

From Antelope Canyon the tour continued to Horseshoe Bend, it a 15 minute drive distance.

The bus dropped us off in the parking lot and we walked to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook Stand above the Colorado River as you look down upon river at the bottom of Glen Canyon. Horseshoe Bend is an area where the Colorado River makes a complete turn, providing just great views of desert, river, cliffs and canyon.

There is a railing and safe place to take view and take pictures, some of the tourists were taking chances and getting to close to the edge to take Photos.

From Page Arizona we headed back to Las Vegas and passed through Glen Canyon Dam. Picture taken from the window of a moving bus

Glen Canyon Dam

Questions, leave them in the comments below and please do share the blog post on social media, Thanks!

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January 16, 2022

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta New Mexico

In October 2021 drove from Austin Texas to Albuquerque New Mexico, Its a 12 hour drive, took an over night break in Amarillo Texas

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is an amazing event held anually in early October with 100's of hot air balloons that fill up the sky. See video below, a must visit for anyone

Entrance tickets cost U$D 15 per session, there are 2 sessions 1 in the morning, gates open around 5 AM and second in the evening starting at 3:30 PM on the weekends, on weekdays there is just one morning session

Stay - I stayed at an Airbnb downtown for $115 a night, prices during the Balloon fiesta are high. My Airbnb was in downtown close to old town Albuquerque, and about 10 miles from the Balloon fiesta Park, Albuquerque did not have too bad of a rush hour traffic and the location worked perfect for me.

Weather - Mornings and Nights are cold and daytime is warm in October

Dawn Patrol

The Dawn Patrol is a morning event at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. It's a chance for pilots to check the wind conditions for the day and for early guests to cheer on the balloonists. The Dawn Patrol lasts up to two hours and occurs on Mass Ascension Days, which are weekends and Wednesdays. Got up at 5 AM and headed to the fiesta park, its still dark when the balloons take off.

Night Glow

The balloons are inflated and their burners are pulsed in time with music. The balloons glow like giant light bulbs or Chinese lanterns. The most spectacular moment is when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time.