Finding Solitude at Joshua Tree National Park, California

18 March 20253 May 2025

My last visit to Joshua Tree National Park was last November, a perfect time of the year for a hike. The weather had begun to cool down in comparison to the summer heat and I was ready to set out for an amazing adventure. There are so many fabulous parks in southern California where you can feel like you are the only one in the world. This is one of them. The surroundings are just as unique as its unpredictable environment that each visit can bring about a whole new experience.

The whimsical Joshua Tree, for which the park is named, is an indigenous plant that reminds me of a furry cactus with starburst pompoms. These plants were used by the American Indians for food (their seeds and flower buds), household items and clothing (baskets and sandals).

The ground cover was scarce in most parts with clumps of brush, predominantly creosote bush. Colorful ocotillo and cactus were intermittently scattered throughout the vast expanse of the desert.

In addition to the Joshua Tree, what I found so fascinating about this park were the endless rock formations and twisted boulders shaped by geologic forces. According to the national park, these rocks rose from the ground beneath as a result of volcanic activity. As the boulders were pushed up from the earth, they cooled down and crystallized. Over time, the water from the ground rounded the edges and widened the cracks, resulting in heaps of monzogranite that look similar to toy blocks in a stack.

During the scenic drive, I took the time to find images in the rocks. If there was a large pile of them, I would pull over to see what shapes and figures appeared out of the monoliths. I had imagined a variety of objects from eagles, rabbits, horses and even people.

About halfway to Barker Dam, I met up with a rock climber to see if I could make the climb. I felt safe with the guide I hired, knowing that he would be there in the chance that I slipped and fell. We met in a safe location and one that was not too difficult for a first try. I was surprised that the rocks, for the most part, were fairly stable. It was exhilarating to reach the top and look out into the distance of the park. I wished I would have done this sooner.

Many people come to Joshua Tree National Park for a variety of outdoor activities. During my scenic drive I noticed bikers, hikers and the occasional rock climber. This is a perfect location for rock climbing and there are a few outfitters available to take out the adventurous for an adrenaline-filled afternoon. I hired an excellent guide from Joshua Tree Outfitters, who was specialized in working with novice climbers.

I had also set aside some time for a hike, so I decided on the Barker Dam Nature Loop, just over a mile long. This trail took me through parts of the desert where cattlemen built dams as a water source for their livestock back in the 1800s. Later, miners arrived in search of gold until the 1930’s when the land was parceled out to homesteaders.

I enjoyed the vast diversity of hiking the trail with rock formations that took on a wide variety of shapes. The dried out flora and fauna were at the mercy of the hot sun. and trees provided a brief solace from the scorching heat.

12 Wide Angle Landscape on the Barker Dam Trail

The landscape was extremely spacious with small rocks and boulders, while hills in the distance were low lying and desolate. The hike remained unsteady with stones until I finally reached the dam. I tried to look down into the wall but there was not a way for me to approach it any closer without falling over the edge.

14 Petroglyphs on the Barker Dam Trail

I was nearing the end of the trail when a boulder appeared in the middle of nowhere. As I closed in on the site, I noticed there were petroglyphs painted in red and black. I learned that there were actual Indian markings in the rocks, but they had been painted over and were not authentic.

15 Chipmunk at the Park

My day at Joshua Tree had come to a close and as I was crossing the parking lot, I saw a little chipmunk dart out from one underneath a car. There is nothing better than seeing animals in their natural habitat. Such a highlight of my day.

An area slightly larger than the state of Rhode Island, Joshua Tree National Park begs to be explored. Offering activities for all types of outdoorsmen, this is a wonderful way to explore the deserts of California.

Have you visited Joshua Tree National Park? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for following my journey through Joshua Tree National Park! Wishing you many Happy Travels!!

What to See and What to Do:

Joshua Tree National Park
74485 National Park Drive
Twentynine Palms, CA 74485
Telephone: 760 367 5500

Admission Fee: $30 for a 7 day vehicle permit, admitting the passengers of a single, non-commercial vehicle on the day of purchase and for the next six days. Motorcycles: $25 for a 7-day entrance permit, per motorcycle; Individual Entrance Fee: $15 7-day entrance fee, per person on foot or bike; Non-commercial groups: $15 per person charged to non-commercial groups entering in a vehicle with a capacity of 16 passengers or more. Joshua Tree Annual Pass is $55 valid for 12 months from the month of purchase.
Hours: Open all year
Amenities: Campsites are available for camping and overnight backpacking, rock climbing, birding, mountain biking, horseback riding. There are tours offered such as a Geology Motor Tour or a tour of Keys Ranch.
Scenic View: Views throughout the desert are incredible, but are amazing from the top of the rocks after a great climb. Stargazing is another spectacular opportunity for outstanding scenic views.
Length of Visit: To visit the full park would take at least a couple of days, but even a day visit is well worth the trip.
Tips for Your Visit: There is no cellular service throughout the park. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen as the desert can become quite hot during the day. In the evening, temperatures can drop, so it is also recommended to bring along a jacket. There are limited gas stations as well, so ensure that you have fueled up your vehicle. Refer to the park’s website ahead of time to note any closures and stop by the visitor’s center for any updates regarding the park.

Where to Stay:

Hilton San Diego Bayfront
1 Park Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92101
Telephone: 619 564 3333

Where to Eat:

Parq Restaurant
615 Broadway
San Diego, CA
Telephone: 619 727 6789

There were so many amazing items on the menu such as oysters, gnocchi, mussels and my favorite, the Charcuterie Board! Since I was taking clients out for dinner, we ordered each one and shared…perfect for four.

What to Eat:

Mexican cuisine, especially tamales
California wood-fired pizza
Southeast Asian foods
Sushi
Seafood
Local Wines

What to Read:

The Land of Little Rain, by Mary Hunter Austin
Wonder Valley, by Ivy Pochada
Twentynine Palms: A True Story of Murder, Marines and the Mojave, by Deanne Stillman

Photo Guide for San Diego:

Arch Rock at White Tank Campground
Skull Rock a few dozen yards from Park Boulevard
Cholla Cactus Garden along Pinto Basin Road
Barker Dam
Indian Cove at Indian Cove Campground
The Joshua Trees
Rock Climbers

16 Blue Skies and Boulders

One of my favorite photos of Joshua Tree National Park

17 121112, Petroglyphs at JTSP

More Petroglyphs

A Taste of Balinese Foods and Fruits

4 February 202222 September 2024

Experiencing the local food in another country is one of the highlights of my travels. During my visit to Bali, I was looking forward to trying the satay, the soups and to learn more about their exotic fruits. Prior to my trip, I decided to visit an Indonesian restaurant so I would have an idea of what to order and I was pleasantly surprised by all of the delicious options that would be available during my vacation.

From traditional, sit-down meals to the food stalls and roadside stands, there was no shortage of choices for experiencing an amazing meal in Bali. The fruit was incredibly fresh and deliciously unique from the Durian fruit to the Rambatan. There were a number of fruit stands throughout Bali where the generous merchants allowed me to try their produce before buying. There were pineapples, small bananas and mangoes which are popular in the United States, but they also had fresh tropical selections that tasted unlike anything I have tried back home.

One of the most colorful fruits I enjoyed was the pitaya, which is commonly known as the dragonfruit. Its external. layered skin is pink at the center turning green at its outer edges. It certainly looks like a dragon, but there is nothing scary about this fruit that comes in both sweet and sour flavors. This yummy fruit resembles the kiwi with small little seeds and a juicy flesh on the interior.

The mangosteen has a purple exterior which looks like an onion from afar. They grow on a tropical evergreen tree and have a juicy, sweet taste. Opening the fruit causes the rind to give off a purple sap which can stain clothes and skin. Inside they are segmented like the orange but the flesh of the fruit is white in color.

Finally, there is the Duran fruit. I had the opportunity to taste this spiny, thick skinned fruit on the first day of my arrival and it must be an acquired taste. The fruit has a strong odor which is sometimes described as kerosene, but it has a tender, runny-like pulp that is said to resemble an almond flavor with the thickness and texture of custard. I have to admit that I was not a big fan of the fruit, but I had later tried Durian ice cream which I found to be a bit more palatable.

Chicken Bakso was a staple of my diet during my visit to Bali. I absolutely love this dish!! Many of the locals refer to this as their Indonesian meatball soup and you can find it at the various food stalls throughout the island.

Some of the other snack foods that I enjoyed in Bali were bananas dipped in coconut, Krupuk (deep fried rice sugar) and the spinach fried with a peanut crust. There were so many options from which to choose, including other Asian snacks that included spring rolls, stuffed peppers and rice balls. Although some of the combinations seemed a bit interesting, I wanted to at least try them and was not disappointed.

Over the last couple of days in the south of Bali, the town of Kuta, I asked my driver to take me to a restaurant where I could have fish. He told me that there was a great place on the beach in Jimbaran, Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant and suggested that I try the red snapper. The dish was served with rice and it was absolutely phenomenal. The fish in Bali is a staple food for the locals and that is no surprise. There are a variety of dishes in Bali that include fish as the main ingredient and I planned to search for some of them to make once I traveled back home.

Have you traveled to a country where you fell in love with the food and wanted to replicate the foods you enjoyed? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for exploring the foods of Bali through my post! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

Road Side Stalls Throughout Bali

Bawang Merah Beachfront Restaurant
Kelan, Jimbaran Bay, Bali, 80361, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 770210

Bali, Indonesia: Amazing Culture, Phenomenal Nature

8 January 202222 September 2024

Rice Fields Heading to Northern Bali

Bali had been on my bucket list for years, so taking advantage of the Christmas holiday season, I decided it was time to make the trip. I wasn’t sure when I would have the opportunity again, so I booked my travel to stay for two weeks starting on New Year’s Eve. I was taking a chance on the weather because the rainy season is between December and January and trying to find a hotel over New Year’s was proving to be a challenge.

Balinese Fishing Boats

At the last minute, all of my travel plans were confirmed and the day of my flight had finally arrived. What an adventure!

It’s New Year’s Eve and the plane was beginning its approach for landing. The view from my window was a picturesque setting, typical of island life. The fishing vessels, shrimp boats and scenic cruises scattered along the shoreline and the weather was a balmy 80 degrees.

A sample of the Indonesian Visa, Immigration

As I exited the plane, I followed the crowd of passengers into the open air terminal. Indonesia requires Americans to purchase a 30-day visa which is available on arrival at the airport. Although the lines were long, the process was quick. Once I passed through customs, I waited at an outside café to meet up with my cruise ship friend, Wayan Sunarsa and his family.

My Waitress at the Snack Bar

Trying to reach Wayan by phone, the lines were busy and the traffic was packed. I later learned that the drive from Singaraja (located in northern Bali) took twice the amount of time to reach the airport because of the New Year’s holiday. While waiting, at the snack bar, I ordered a fruity cocktail to start the celebration and enjoyed some downtime watching the crowded terminal.

The Entrance to the Ngurah Rai Airport of Bali

Located in the Bali’s capital of Denpasar, the Ngurah Rai Airport is adorned with statues representing the island’s Hindu religion. It is conveniently located in the southern part of Bali within minutes of the more popular tourist destinations such as Kuta, Ubud and Jimbaran. The grounds of the airport were well-manicured with beautiful tropical flowers and palm trees and I could not help taking in my paradisal surroundings.

An Indonesian sacrifice at one of the many alters on the island of Bali

The stories I had heard about Bali were legendary. Laid-back and friendly, this extraordinary, Indonesian island offers spectacular scenery, phenomenal food and a fascinating culture. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim except for the island of Bali which is Hindu. Bali is a magnificent paradise where temples suspend from scenic mountainsides and sacrifices line the streets giving thanks to their Hindu gods.

The Sunarsa Family

Most people are familiar with the Bali that is depicted in movies like Eat, Pray, Love. Of course the scenery is breathtaking, but the people of Bali have an exuberant passion for life. In addition to the sites of the island, I wanted to explore their Hindu way of life through religious celebrations, monuments and everyday traditions. I was excited to meet up with the Sunarsas who were happy to show me around South Bali during the New Year’s celebration.

Garuda Statue

We finished dinner, watched the fireworks and enjoyed the festivities along the beach. Although it was late, Wayan and his family wanted to show me Wisnu Park in the nearby town of Ulu Watu. Known for its enormous statue of the Hindu god Garuda, the park is open each day and provides year around entertainment.

We would need to start driving north towards Lovina early in the morning, so we found the Hard Rock Hotel in Kuta and checked in. It was a long day of travel for me and I was exhausted. I fell asleep quickly but not before thinking about the fact that I had just spent New Year’s Eve in Bali! I was so happy to be starting the new year in such a beautiful place. Happy New Year! Or as they say in Bali, Tahun Baru!

Have you visited Bali? I would love to hear about where you stayed, what you ate and which attractions you visited if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my blog post about Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
Jalan Raya Uluwatu
Ungasan, Kuta, Selatan, Badung, Bali, Indonesia 80364
Telephone: +62 361 700 808

Admission Fee: Varies depending on entertainment and events
Hours: Daily from 8:00AM to 10:00PM
Amenities: Entertainment venue, shopping, restaurants with spectacular views (Beranda and Jendela Bali, gardens and plaza for entertaining, street theater, Segway rental, cultural performances, wedding venue, photo studio.
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of Bali from the park; dine at one of two restaurants for additional views.
Length of the Tour: Minimum of 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Visit the park’s website for upcoming events and performances.

Where to Stay:

Hard Rock Hotel Bali
Jalan Pantai
Banjar Pande Mas
Kuta, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 761 869

Where to Eat:

Seafood House Restaurant
Jalan Kartika Plaza
Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361
Telephone: +62 361 763900

I tried to eat as much seafood as I possibly could while I was in Bali. The fresh food and spices are unlike any other that I have tried. I ordered the fried red snapper and the bakso soup for a filling lunch.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

Flight information from Taipai

A perspective of the magnitude of Garuda’s Head

Wisnu, more commonly known as Vishnu is the supreme being of the Hindu religion

The island of Bali as seen from the Airplane

PNC Festival of Lights, Cincinnati, OH

22 December 201919 September 2024

As the year comes to a close, the spirit of Christmas continues into the New Year with the PNC Festival of Lights. From November 19^th, 2016 to January 4^th, 2017, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden displays close to 2 million lights during the holiday season.

For over 30 years, the Cincinnati Zoo’s lights have grown to become the largest holiday display in the city. There are several themed areas created for the event that include Frozen Wonderland, the Gingerbread Village, the Candy Cane Forest as well as Fairyland.

We stopped by the Frozen Wonderland exhibit to see Elsa and the rest of Walt Disney’s Frozen Characters then on to Gingerbread Village. Here we took in the various themes of each home and searched for the hidden mouse.

We strolled through the Candy Cane Forest and ventured out to Fairyland to find the five hidden fairies.

Although the focus for most visitors was the holiday lights, there were a small number of animal exhibits that remained open. We were so excited to see the giraffes.

A favorite stop for many of the children (and adults alike) is to catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer.

We enjoyed the new Wild Lights show that took place on Swan Lake. as they flickered to the tunes of ET, Harry Potter and Rocky. We couldn’t take our eyes off of the beautifully decorated 21-foot tree with its multitude of lights, putting us in the Christmas spirit.

We experienced the Winter Wonders for the Madcap Puppet’s Black Light Show, watched carolers sing familiar holiday tunes and attempted the PNC Festival of Lights Scavenger Hunt.

With so many activities, we worked up an appetite and ordered a hot dog and chips. The Cincinnati Zoo has over ten eateries, including stalls with options that are only available during the Christmas season. At S’Mores N More, we purchased the prepackaged ingredients for s’mores and roasted our marshmallows over the open fire pit.

Each year, Santa stops by for a visit and his last day to take toy orders is December 23^rd. If you happen to miss him, you can drop off your wish list at the Holiday Post office or put in a good word with Mrs. Claus.

Visiting the Cincinnati Zoo’s Festival of Lights was a wonderful way for us to enjoy the holiday season. We agreed that it was such a great experience, we decided to make it a part of our family’s holiday tradition.

Have you visited the Cincinnati Zoo during the Festival of Lights? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Cincinnati Zoo and wishing you and your family a Happy Zoo Year!

What to See and What to Do:

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
3400 Vine Street
Cincinnati, OH 45220
Telephone: 513 281 4700

Admission Fee: Basic package: $18 per adult, $12 for children; Unlimited ride package: $25 per adult, $19 for children; Ultimate holiday adventure package includes unlimited rides as well as the Holiday Polar Bear Express 4-D experience for $27 per adult, $21 for children. By purchasing your tickets ahead of time online, you can save a couple of dollars per ticket.
Hours: For the PNC Festival of Lights, the zoo is open from 10AM to 9PM (Sundays through Thursdays) 10AM – 10PM on Friday and Saturday. Visit the zoo’s website for hours at other times throughout the year.
Amenities: Gift shop, café and eateries, special events, wheelchair and stroller rentals, wheelchair accessible, animal encounters and experiences, rides and theater and educational programs
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Check the zoo’s website for special events such as the Animal Encounters opportunities.

Where to Stay:

Graduate Cincinnati
151 Goodman Street
Cincinnati, OH 45219
Telephone: 513 487 3800

Where to Eat:

The Grove is the zoo’s food truck experience with four mobile options. Choose from Taco Caja, The Coop, Wild Burger and Sweet Retreat.
Base Camp Cafe
LaRosa’s Pizza
Tusker’s
The Outpost
Skyline Chili
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Dippin’ Dots
Savannah Soft Serve

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

A Rainbow Tunnel of Lights

The Gingerbread House

Believe

Christmas Train

The Christmas Tree at Night

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Don Arturo Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, NOW LAS CALEñITAS RESTAURANT

6 October 201916 March 2025

Spending my twenties in Tampa, I fell in love with Cuban food, especially Cuban sandwiches served with black beans and saffron rice. I had been living in Cincinnati for nearly six months when I decided to fly down to Fort Lauderdale to visit my best friend, Melissa. She had been transferred to South Florida with United Airlines and had already scoped out the best Cuban restaurants, so I was so excited to hop off the plane and have a much-needed lunch.

Don Arturo Restaurant is minutes from the airport, so when I met her at the gate, we immediately set out for lunch. There was not much of a crowd so we ordered our drinks and food straightaway. Within minutes our meals were brought out to our table. My Cuban sandwich was perfectly prepared with nearly two inches of shredded pork on a perfectly pressed bun.

The Cuban Sandwich, or Cubano in Spanish is said to have originated in either Tampa or South Florida where Cuban immigrants migrated and set up communities. The sandwich is made with ham, roasted pork (mojo), Swiss cheese, pickle, and mustard placed on Cuban bread and then pressed on a plancha, similar to a panini press but without the grooved surface. When or where the sandwich was invented is difficult to confirm as many believe it became a lunch item for cigar makers who worked in communities such as Key West or Ybor City, outside of Tampa.

My black beans and yellow rice were topped with onion, which is exactly how I like them, My meal also came with an order of plantains, which was absolutely perfect.

It was great to catch up with Melissa and learn that she was looking for a home in Fort Lauderdale to set up as an Airbnb. Currently she has an apartment on South Beach and would like to make some additional income. I was excited that we would be hanging out on South Beach the next couple of days and I would be able to see her new place and catch up on life. For now, I am catching up on some amazing food at Don Arturo’s.

Do you have a favorite meal or a restaurant that you love to visit? I would love to hear about your favorite place and/or food if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Where to Eat:

Don Arturo Restaurant
1198 SW 27th Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312
Telephone: 954 584 7966

A Million Dollar View at Georgetown Vineyards, NOW GEORGETOWN TAVERN ON THE HILL

18 June 201916 March 2025

Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Georgetown Vineyards was established on a parcel of land once owned by Thomas Jefferson. In addition to producing their estate wines, Georgetown Vineyards also makes wine from California grapes under the label, J. Nico Wine. In January, their Moscato made Amazon’s White Wine list.

The smell of cheese and tomato sauce was coming from the wood-fired pizza oven as I entered the winery. I selected a seat at the counter and decided to try a flight of sweet wines. I collected my wine samples and exited the tasting room to explore the pavilion and enjoy the intoxicating view of the city of Cambridge below.

There was plenty of seating both indoors and out to experience the wines of Georgetown Vineyards. The relaxed setting and friendliness of the staff felt as though I was stopping off at a friend’s house for the afternoon.

Georgetown Vineyards offers a list of pre-selected tasting options of four samples for the cost of $3.50. I decided upon the grouping that included an apple wine and three grape varietals, Fredonia, Concord and Niagara. Each sample was the size of a one ounce pour and there were additional flight options for the same price.

Here is an overview of my winetasting experience:

Apple – light tasting, not too strong, has a very light alcohol flavor and would be a super refreshing at a very cold temperature
Fredonia – loved the smell! Beautiful, dense reddish pink color with a sweet aftertaste, but colder, this would be another refreshing summertime drink.
Concord – love this grape! Cranberry color and so easy to drink. The flavors come out towards the back of my throat and tastes very similar to Fredonia.
Niagara – clear wine from one of the most popular grapes grown here in Ohio, it was not my favorite wine, but one that seems to be a common selection at most Ohio wineries.

These are just a few of the fabulous wines that are available at Georgetown Vineyards.

While enjoying the fabulous views and sipping my wine samples, I had the pleasure of meeting the resident cat, Miles. He’s a friendly little guy and if you give him attention he will be your friend for life. I am a cat lover, so he could have hung out with me all day.

In addition to wine tastings and a great selection of food options, Georgetown Vineyards schedules a wide range of activities for visitors throughout the week. Wednesdays are wine and paint nights with a local high school art teacher from Cambridge. Live entertainment draws a great crowd on Saturdays and a bonfire is lit as long as the weather cooperates.

There is nothing more entertaining and relaxing than the spectacular view from this cute winery on the hill. Looking down into the town of Cambridge, the location is nothing less than spectacular.

The total property covers fifty acres, with approximately four acres dedicated to the vineyards, which include Fredonia and Niagara grapes. These are perfect grapes for Ohio, hearty for acclimating to the winter months of the state.

The owner and winemaker of this fabulous winery is John Nicolozakes whose family originates from the Greek island of Crete. Growing up in the Greek tradition of pairing sumptuous food and delicious wines, he has become quite the expert at producing wines that mirror this Greek culture for which he is accustomed. He began developing his winemaking skills as a hobby out of his garage while working full time as a miner back in 1993. It wasn’t long after that he planted the first vines and opened up the winery for business in 1998. More vines were planted in 2013 to extend their vineyard an additional 140 x 30 feet wide.

Coming soon, Georgetown Vineyards will be selling craft beers under the label, Southside Brewing Company. This will be a great addition and will appeal to craft beer lovers to the winery as well! With the breathtaking view, exciting entertainment and a wide option of choices of food and drink, Georgetown Vineyards is positioned to continue its amazing success.

Are you already a fan of Georgetown Vineyards or have just recently visited? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Georgetown Vineyards
62920 Georgetown Road
Cambridge, Ohio 43725
Telephone: 740 435 3222

Hours: The winery is open from 11 AM to 8 PM on Monday – Thursday, 11 AM to 8:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. The winery is closed on Sunday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and schedule of events.
Amenities: Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, outdoor seating, online shopping, wine, Southside brewery, private events and scheduled events to include
Tips for Your Visit: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available. As always, please drink responsibly.

There is an interstate sign off of I-70 and additional signage that will bring you to the winery. They are open year round and offer a variety of wines for tasting as well as brick-oven pizzas. There is a gift shop and of course, one of the most scenic views for an Ohio winery. Visit their website for more information about their wines, hours of operation and upcoming events or check them out on Facebook. Please note that the winery’s hours change from the winter to summer months.

Where to Stay:

Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center
14755 Cadiz Road
Cambridge, OH 43725
Telephone: 740 439 2751

Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center is one of Ohio’s State Park Lodges. This fabulous property offers a great selection of summer activities including pontoon rentals, hiking, fishing, archery, outdoor pool, beach, lounge, restaurant and more. The rustic accommodations of the lodge rooms were perfect for our extended weekend stay.

Where to Eat:

Georgetown Vineyards
62920 Georgetown Road
Cambridge, Ohio 43725
Telephone: 740 435 3222

Georgetown Vineyards offers a great selection of custom-made Wood-Fired Brick Oven Pizzas. I ordered the Margherita Pizza which was absolutely delicious with a perfect blend of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil, drizzled with olive oil.

Timber’s Restaurant at Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center
14755 Cadiz Road
Cambridge, OH 43725
Telephone: 740 439 2751

During my first night’s stay, I had expected to order a full dinner, but after having left-over pizza from Georgetown Vineyard, I decided on an order of chicken wings with the tropical habanero sauce. The appetizer was the perfect size and I enjoyed the heat and sweet of the wing sauce.

The Forum
2205 Southgate Parkway
Cambridge, OH 43275
Telephone: 740 439 2777

Flaming cheese Saganaki is one of my favorite dishes and you can’t go wrong by ordering the Greek sampler. All foods are made from scratch and are absolutely delicious!

Books to Read:

The Mansfield Killings: A Novel Based on True Events by Scott Fields
Green Bay Tree by Louis Bromfield
The Haunted History of the Ohio State Reformatory by Sherri Blake

Photo Guide to Mansfield:

The Ohio State Reformatory’s Facade, Cell Blocks and scenes from the movie, Shawshank Redemption
The Iconic Carousel at Richland Carousel Park
Kingwood Hall, the peacocks and gardens at Kingwood Center Gardens
Malabar State Park’s home of Louis Bromfield, the farm animals on the property and Mt. Jeez
The beautiful view of Georgetown from Georgetown Vineyards

Exploring Cincinnati’s Italian Heritage at CincItalia!

11 June 201918 September 2024

Cincinnati is known for its weekly Catholic festivals and the integral part they play, not only in raising money for the local parishes, but as a social meeting place among each of the churches. One of these festivals is the CincItalia, representing the St. Catherine of Siena Parish on the west side, which takes place at the Harvest Home Park each year.

The festivities began on Friday with an Adult-Only Carnevale celebration. Lasting from 6PM until midnight, the Italian food and wine flowed abundantly. This year, the Rusty Griswolds would perform on opening night, drawing large crowds to hear their favorite 80’s tunes.

I made my first stop at Gregorios to try the Arancini ($5), a Sicilian dish, made of rice with meat and cheese in the center, coated in bread crumbs and then fried. With a crisp outside and cheese-filled middle, this would only be the start of my Italian feast.

There were over 12 food stalls serving everything from Fried Calamari to Penne Pasta, hot dogs to pizza. A large selection of desserts included Italian favorites such as gelatos, ice and cannolis.

The Beer Garden was packed, but I was able to find a place to sit after waiting in the short line for a Prosecco.

The Rusty Griswolds were preparing for their first set as a large crowd began to gather near the stage. This band has been a local favorite in the early 1980’s when they were known as Free Reins. Having won a local rock station band contest, they performed for a few years until the band took a short hiatus. Reconvening in the late 90’s, the band changed their name to the Rusty Griswolds and bring large crowds to the venues where they perform.

With an amazing selection of Italian food, drinks and desserts, phenomenal 80’s music from the Rusty Griswolds, the CincItalia is one of the best Catholic festivals to attend each year.

Have you visited the CincItalia Festival or do you have a favorite Catholic festival in Cincinnati? I would love to hear about your experience or recommendations on where to visit next! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

CincItalia
Harvest Home Park
3961 North Bend Road
Cheviot, OH 45211
Telephone: 513 661 0651

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express West
5505 Rybolt Street
Cincinnati, OH 45248
Telephone: 513 574 6000

Where to Eat:

CincItalia
Harvest Home Park
3961 North Bend Road
Cheviot, OH 45211
Telephone: 513 661 0651

I recommend the arancini, stromboli, prosecco and limoncello.

More of My Favorite Places to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

Raices Restaurant, San Juan, Puerto Rico

19 February 201817 September 2024

While riding the trolley throughout the town of San Juan, Puerto Rico, I noticed the restaurant Raices, which had been recommended by the hotel concierge. I decided to stop here after my walk along Constitution Avenue, hoping it would be open for lunch. I was looking forward to trying more delicious, traditional Puerto Rican cuisine.

As I approached the restaurant, the door was open, so I walked in, not realizing that I was interrupting a staff meeting. They kindly informed me that they would be open in a few minutes, so I took a place at the bench outside to wait.

Soon after, I was greeted by a lovely young lady wearing a white dress and a white head wrapping, a traditional Puerto Rican costume. I had worked up an appetite with a few hours of walking the Old Town, so she promptly seated me and took my drink order. I was so excited to order the pina colada and even more so when it had arrived in a tin cup, helping the drink to stay frozen.

Looking around the restaurant, I enjoyed the beautiful artwork of traditional island color and local scenes. The picturesque paintings were framed with window shutters to look as though I was looking into Puerto Rican homes or looking outdoors onto pastures and fields.

I asked my server for a recommendation and he reviewed the restaurant’s house specialties. There were too many fabulous options such as a mahi mahi, creole style stuffed with shrimp in garlic sauce or muslitos campstres which is pork country-style drumsticks in fricassee sauce. There was also a surf and turf option listed on the menu, which looked absolutely delicious.

I decided to order the skirt steak with a chimichurri sauce, which came with a side of mashed green plantains enough to feed two people. The steak was so tender it melted in my mouth and had a buttery flavor while the chimichurri sauce gave it a wonderful flavor of garlic and oregano. I asked if they had any hot sauce and the server brought me over a small dish. With all of the amazing spices, this has to be one of the best hot sauces I had ever eaten. It had a nice kick but not too hot that I could not enjoy my food. I asked if there was any way that I could order it from their store in the back, but it was a new recipe of the chef and was not yet available. I learned that I would be able to order it on their website soon, but until then I would have to call them to request it.

The history of Raices (roots) is quite an interesting one. The restaurant and store is based on the root principles of the Puerto Rican cooking and its flagship restaurant first opened in the town of Caguas in 2002. It became so popular that it now has three locations throughout the island…Caguas, Old San Juan and Hato Rey.

The owners take great pride in the history and culture of Puerto Rico. I loved the unique atmosphere of the restaurant and the period costumes. The 1940’s style wardrobe of the servers and their impeccable service are just as much a delight as the extraordinary food prepared here. A visit to Raices is guaranteed to have you leaving the restaurant satisfied and wanting to come back for more.

When you travel do you like to try new foods at the location you are visiting? What has been your most memorable dining experience? I would love to hear your story, so kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about our afternoon lunch at Raices! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

Raices Restaurant
#315 Recinte Sur Street
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 289 2121

Explore Medieval Life at the Ohio Renaissance Festival

13 October 201616 September 2024

Stepping into another place and time, I entered the charming medieval village of the Ohio Renaissance Festival in Harveysburg, Ohio. This festival was voted one of the best in nearby Warren County, and I imagined a day of eating overesized turkey legs and drinking lots of beer. What could be better than that? So, on a beautiful, sunny Saturday afternoon, I set out to enjoy a day in the Middle Ages.

The Ohio Renaissance Festival takes place yearly on the weekends running from late-August to October. Dating back to 1990, the venue eventually established a permanent location in Harveysburg and began building a medieval village.

What I found most fascinating about the festival was the number of people in costume. From wenches to rowdy pirates, lords and ladies, it was as though I had been transported to England in the 16^th century. I was also surprised at the size of the venue which sits on about 30 acres displaying over 100 shops in the Medieval Marketplace and a large number of outdoor stages for entertainment.

As I wandered through the village, the smell of barbecue drew me to the food stalls where I started my feeding frenzy with, of course, that turkey leg and a beer. It was a difficult choice because there were so many options such as bread bowls filled with soup, fish ‘n chips and corn on the cob.

I could hear cheering from the jousting field and began to wander towards the Tournament Joust. The royal family was joined by their friends and watched the competition from their box seats. The excitement of the crowd was contagious, so I joined in to cheer on my favorite knight, jousting to the bitter end.

The shops were filled with medieval merchandise, including gorgeous gowns and armor. Made-to-order crafts were available for purchase and I enjoyed browsing through the leather goods, stone carvings and jewelry. High end, more expensive items were those made from glass and novelty items such as dragon eggs.

In addition to the shows and entertainment, children and adults played games, competed in feats of skill and enjoyed carnival-like rides. It was an opportunity for me to try my hand at archery, knife and ax throwing, a few tries to “drench a wench”, and a ride on the swinging ship called SeaDragon.

The admission covered most of the activities at the festival. Additional attractions not covered included the Premium Jousting Seating (the Royalty Box), Open House Mead Tasting and the Naughty Bawdy Pub Show and required a small fee.

I spent most of the day at the Festival and found myself browsing the shops, trying a few games and watching some of the shows. I joined in with the singing at the bar and was living the life of a serf. I was amazed at the amount of fun I was having and loved the camaraderie of the crowd.

What was even more amazing was how much time and effort that goes in to setting up the Renaissance Festival each year. The authenticity of the venue was so outstanding that I felt I was actually visiting a medieval village, immersed in the experience.

The Festival also hosts themed weekends, so check them out online to see if there is one that interests you. You may want to dress up and experience the Ohio Renaissance festival in a whole new way,

Have you visited the Ohio Renaissance Festival? What was your favorite part of the festivities? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about the Ohio Renaissance Festival and I wish you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ohio Renaissance Festival Grounds
10542 OH-73
Waynesville, OH 45068
Telephone: 513 897 7000

Admission Fee: Tickets for Adults are $19 while General Admission tickets for Children (ages 13+) are $7.50.
Hours: The 2019 festivities will begin the weekend of August 31^st and continue until the weekend of October 26 – 27. The event opens at 10:30 AM to 6 PM each festival day.
Amenities: Themed weekends, entertainment, food, crafts, games and rides as well as special events.
Length of Visit: Full day of food, fun, activities and entertainment
Tips for Your Visit: To immerse yourselves in the spirit of the festival, dress in medieval costume!

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Wilmington
123 Gano Road
Wilmington, OH 45177
Telephone: 937 283 3200

Where to Eat and What to Eat:

Ohio Renaissance Festival Grounds
10542 OH-73
Waynesville, OH 45068
Telephone: 513 897 7000

1572 Roadhouse Bar-B-Q for Pulled Pork Sandwiches, Sausages, Baked Beans, Mac-N-Cheese, Peach and Blueberry Cobbler
Aleing Knight Pub for King’s Weinie, Hot Dogs, Tots, Scotch Egg, Wedge Fries, Cheese Curds, Spicy Corn Nuggets, Chicken Sandwichies, Fried Mushrooms, Strawberry Cheesecake and Cheesecake on a Stick
Archebald Drake’s for Fish and Chips
Bourbon Chicken at the Dragon’s Lair
Bread Bowls
Davinci’s Pizza
Garden of Eatin for bourmet burgers and Fries
Jerky Stand for Beef Jerky
Turkey Legs, Loaded Potatoes and Fried Pickles
Corn Dogs, Brats and Pork Shops

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art

8 September 201616 September 2024

The Cleveland Museum of Art is known for its impressive impressionist collection and is one of the most visited in the world. I had always wanted to visit and when I learned about an additional exhibit based on an Egyptian collection, I was ready to make the two-drive to explore both exhibitions.

Entering the museum, I was overwhelmed with excitement to view the new exhibit: Pharaoh, King of Ancient Egypt. For months, I had been eager to explore this amazing showcase with over 200 ancient artifacts on loan from the British Museum. This exhibit provided an in-depth insight into the life, customs and culture of the Egyptian Pharaohs who ruled from 3000 BC to 30 BC.

The ancient Egyptians worshiped hundreds of gods and goddesses. The pharaoh was not only the ruler of the Egyptian kingdom but a religious figure as well. According to their beliefs, the pharaoh, an earthly representation of the god Horus, took human form to keep order within the kingdom of Egypt and to protect its citizens. Through various rituals, the pharaoh would attempt to please the gods in hopes to grow abundant crops and defeat their enemies. This was displayed by the 5-foot statue of Seti II seated on his throne while making an offering to the god, Amun, symbolized by a ram’s head on the shrine that Seti is holding. At the base of the statue is the carved name of Seti II, known in Egypt as a cartouche.

Once the pharaoh died, the Egyptians believed that he (or she) would be transformed as the god Osiris, the ruler of the underworld. Within his tomb, offerings of bread, wine and carved figures were given as gifts to the gods. The goddess Sekhmet was considered the “daughter of Ra”, a very powerful god, associated with the sun. She could also transform herself into the uraeus, the rearing cobra, displayed on the crown of the pharaohs.

One exhibit showed the Head of Pharaoh Mentuhotep II, a perfect example of the uraeus. His white crown symbolized the rule of the land of Upper Egypt while a red crown represented the rule of Lower Egypt. When the kingdoms were combined, the crown included both symbols of Upper and Lower Egypt.

In addition to statues, figures were also carved into the lintels of Egypt’s extravagant temples. The new pharaoh would leave his mark by building his own temple where the writing on the lintel would reference his rule. The lintel of Amenemhat III is a fine example of what would have been built in the time period of 1859 BC to 1814 BC.

During the Ptolemaic Period, when Greeks ruled Egypt, the tradition of building temples in the Egyptian style continued. According to the exhibit placard, it reads, “Pharaoh Ptolemy I presents grass and a papyrus plant to Hathor, goddess of fertility and joy. These plants symbolized Upper and Lower Egypt; together they represented the unification of the Two Lands.”

Smaller figurines of the pharaoh and the gods were also carved out of stone or wood while some were sculpted out of bronze. The jackal head is thought to have represented the god Horus in southern Egypt while the falcon may have been associated with the Horus of Pe in northern Egypt.

The colorful stela (writing on stone) of Pharaoh Tuthosis IV showed his offering a gift of papyrus and lotus flowers to Amun-Ra and the deified queen Ahmose-Nefertari, who was the wife of Pharaoh Ahmose. It is believed to have been created somewhere between 1279 BC – 1203 BC by Kha, the man who is carved into the bottom with his arms raised.

One of my favorite items in the exhibit was the Coffin Case of Bakenmut. I was taken by surprise at the beautiful artwork displayed both inside and out. Although not the sarcophagus of a pharaoh, it was the resting place of a member of the clergy of Amun at Thebes, a very rich man. It is estimated that it was built between 950 BC – 900 BC and made out of sycamore wood.

On the interior, there are images of two deified kings, Amenhotep I and Tuthmosis III from Dynasty 18. It is believed that Bakenmut desired to have an association with these kings in the afterlife.

I also enjoyed the wing of the exhibit that documented the lives of the royal family. Various everyday items displayed included jewelry as well as tiles and reliefs that decorated their opulent living spaces. One of my favorite pieces was the scarab beetle that dated back between 1391 BC to 1353 BC. The scarab symbolized immortality, resurrection, transformation and protection and most used to decorate tombs.

One of the most fascinating artifacts in the collection was the papyrus that dated back to 2454 BC – 2311 BC. This document revealed the administrative functions and economic procedures of that time period. For example, lists of offerings, calendars, accounts and inventory have been found by archaeologists and researchers.

When the pharaoh died elaborate tombs were designed to assist him with his passing and provided him with the items he would need in the afterlife. For example, many valuable objects would be buried with the pharaoh such as furniture, food and jewels. One of the most interesting objects was the shabti, a funerary figurine that was said to act as a servant for the deceased, carrying out manual labor after the pharaoh’s death. The turquoise Shabti of Seti I was said to have been carved from 1294 to 1279 BC.

Inside of the tomb, reliefs were painted to show images of the pharaoh in the afterlife. Seti I was the father of Ramses II and his tomb was considered the longest and deepest of all tombs discovered in the Valley of the Kings in Thebes. The fragment from his tomb has retained its original color and was part of the doorway .

The pharaoh lived a life of luxury not only on earth, but beyond his death. Valuable artifacts that were once the property of the pharaohs show the extravagant lifestyle for which they were accustomed. While many of us believe “you can’t take it with you”, the Egyptians would vehemently disagree.

The Pharaohs exhibit at The Cleveland Museum of Art was an insightful opportunity to explore the lives of the Egyptian pharaohs and to witness firsthand their riches and culture. The exhibit was on loan from the British Museum and was open to the public from March 13^th to June 12^th, 2016.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Cleveland Museum of Art? What was you favorite exhibit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cleveland Museum of Art
11150 East Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216 421 7350

Admission Fee: Free for the permanent museum exhibits. Additional fees may apply for special exhibits and tickets can be purchased online, at the ticket center or by calling 216 421 7350.
Hours: Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM to 5PM; Open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10AM to 9PM. Closed Mondays. Closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The museum will close at 4PM on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Amenities: On-site library and archives, restaurant, café, and museum store
Length of Visit: At least 3 hours for the permanent exhibit
Tips for Your Visit: Ensure that you have visited the museum’s website to confirm additional exhibits.

Where to Stay:

Glidden House at University Circle
1901 Ford Drive
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216 231 8900

The Glidden House is a gorgeous boutique hotel built in 1910. Located in a prestigious residential neighborhood of Cleveland, this extraordinary French Gothic offers impressive amenities and services.

Where to Eat:

Trentina Restaurant at Glidden House
1903 Ford Drive
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216.421.2900

Trentina is the sixth restaurant of Jonathan Sawyer, a James Beard Award winning chef offering Northern Italian cuisine and wine.

Check out more of these phenomenal artifacts from the Cleveland Museum of Art’s exhibit Pharaoh: King of Ancient Egypt! Enjoy!

What to Read:

Await Your Reply by Dan Chaon
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Cherry by Nico Walker
The Coming of Fabrizze by Raymond DeCapite
Derelict Paradise, by Daniel Kerr
The End by Salvatore Scibona
A Ghetto Takes Shape: Black Cleveland, by Kenneth L. Kusmer
The Greatest Thing Since Sliced Bread, by Don Robertson
The Headmaster’s Papers, by Richard Hawley
The Silent Syndicate, by Hank Messick
The Sparrow, by Mary Doria Russell

Photo Guide for Cleveland:

Abbey Road Skyline
Brewnuts is not only a lovely donut shop, but its nostalgic art deco interior is perfect for unique photos
A Christmas Story House in nearby Tremont
Civic Center District to photograph Cleveland’s City Hall, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and FirstEnergy Football Field
The Cleveland Arcade is one of the most photographed location in Cleveland so arrive early (8 or 9) before the crowds arrive.
Cleveland MetroParks Zoo
Cleveland Murals in Ohio City (close by)
Cleveland’s Museum of Art for its phenomenal architecture and exhibits
Cleveland Public Library
Cleveland Signs
Coastal Taco has some of the best views of the river in the city of Cleveland.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Brecksville is for nature lovers.
The Flying Fig is a yummy cafe where outdoor photos are a must.
East Fourth Street is where you will find cozy cafes lining brick walkways
The Fountain of Eternal Life honors local residents who served in the military (photograph during the day AND night)
Great Lakes Brewing Company
Heinen’s Grocery Store to photograph the rotunda overlooking the food court and check out the terrace for additional photos
Holden Arboretum in nearby Kirtland
Lakeview Cemetery
Hope Memorial Bridge is the best place for photographing a cityscape photo of Cleveland
Located at Playhouse Square, Yours Truly is a chic cafe with exposed brick and stylish furniture and the infamous GE Chandelier
Pour Cleveland is a lovely coffee shop with an artsy interior.
Q Arena
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for its spectacular architecture and historical exhibits
Settler’s Landing Park is perfect for photographing several iconic locations in Cleveland.
Superior Viaduct Bridge
West Side Market is absolutely amazing for shooting food photos at each of the stalls, but a trip up to the second level by way of the corner staircase will provide a photo-worthy shot of the market from above.