A Stroll Along Constitution Avenue, San Juan, PR

29 January 201816 September 2024

Riding the shuttle towards El Morro, I noticed a street of beautiful Spanish mansions and monuments that seemed like a great morning walk.

The next morning, I grabbed my workout clothes and shoes and headed out to a sunny day with mild temperatures. Starting at Plaza Colon (Columbus Square), I began my run heading towards the ocean until I reached San Juan’s Antiguo Casino. This statuesque Spanish and French-style marvel was built to entertain the Old San Juan’s socialites. Designed by architect Carlos del Valle, this gorgeous palace was completed in 1917 on the site of one of the original city gates, la Puerta de Santiago.

Later, the casino was converted into the Free School of Music and by 1955, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture. With its majestic staircase and magnificent twelve-foot chandelier and stunning gardens are the property of the Government Reception Center. The location hosts corporate functions, formal weddings and festive galas.

Within minutes I start my approach towards the Ateneo Puertorriqueno, Puerto Rico’s Athenaeum. While the structure was beautiful and elegant, the architecture appeared more Middle Eastern with its tile and beautiful white stucco. Built as an educational center, its primary endeavor was to provide high learning for the Puerto Rican people. Built in 1876, it now has many uses serving as a museum, performance hall, library and school.

Beautiful palm trees accentuate the facade of the exquisite Casa de Espana. Looking regal with its Moorish architecture, the House of Spain was once a meeting place for Spanish Puerto Rican citizens. Inside, the two stories are decorated with multiple arches and splendid views from the upper level. Outside the plaza and its fountain are optimal for capturing photos. Bringing a bit of Spain to the island, the venue’s gorgeous interior is perfect for weddings and special occasions.

With so much to see along my run, I eventually came upon a section of monuments beginning with the Police Monument of San Juan and slowed down to check them out. The large obelisk, carved with a listing of names, honors the policemen and policewomen who have died in the line of duty while serving the island of Puerto Rico.

I was fascinated with the Plaza de los Leones and the regal lions that guarded the square. Not much is written about this beautiful plaza with the exception of a letter dated 1938. The note states that the “plazoleta”, having undergone restoration, had been damaged by vandals soon after the completion of the renovations. Because of the vandalism, the square was not properly inaugurated and even to this day, the site remains “under construction.”

Approaching the bronze statue of the girl and the globe, I knew this beautiful sculpture somehow represented the children of the island. Dedicated to the teachers of Puerto Rico, it goes without saying that the people here are appreciative of the educators who give back to their community daily. A list of some of the most notable teachers are inscribed on this additional monument and dedication.

Up a set of stairs sits a granite wall surrounding a tall statue. The El Monumento de la Recordacion, or the Monument of Remembrance, recognizes the Puerto Ricans who had given their life in combat under the armed forces of the United States. The memorial was unveiled in 1996 and contains over 2,000 names.

Before reaching the Paseo de los Presidentes, I approached a stunning mural with an arbor as its backdrop. Demonstrating the history and culture of the Puerto Ricans it was one of the most ornate sculptures I had ever seen. A bronze statue, know as The altar de la Patria, took center stage.

Moving towards the coast, there were several bronze busts of past Puerto Rican governors as the grassy park extended towards the roadway. Crossing back up towards the Capitol building I eventually entered the Paseo de los Presidentes.

Located directly across the street from San Juan’s Capitol was a line of life-sized bronze statues. Taking a closer look, I soon realized they represented six of the US Presidents who have visited the island since the late 19th century. Bronze plaques provide a short summary of each leader’s purpose for their visit and what they had accomplished during their stay.

Before finishing my morning of exercise, I wanted to make one last stop. Heading back away from the coast and towards Columbus Square, I reached the Capitol building and decided to go inside for a quick visit.

The Capitol building, more formerly known as El Capitolio de Puerto Rico is located across from the El Monumento de la Recordacion and the Paseo de los Presidentes.

I felt so small standing at the bottom of the steps looking up towards the Capitol building. I could see the security checkpoint and was a bit nervous as I climbed my way to the top.

As I approached the columned facade, I approached the opened door where two men in uniform were waiting at the entrance. While concerned that I was not dressed properly, they escorted me to the metal detector and mentioned the forum was open for visitors.

A short walk away from the security checkpoint, I was standing beneath an exquisite dome painted with local scenes. A true masterpiece of art, I could not take my eyes off of the intricate details of the stunning murals. At each corner, colorful depictions tell the story of Puerto Rico’s important historical events. One represents Columbus’ arrival to Puerto Rico, while another, the end of slavey and the end of the Spanish American War.

Before exiting the building, I happened to notice a wooden table with a glass cover at the other side of the room. Approaching the furniture piece, I could see the placard that identified the document as the Constitution of Puerto Rico.

Standing at the top of the steps, I looked out onto a more quieter San Juan, there were a few additional monuments to explore.

Reaching the San Juan Holocaust, I was reminded of the horrific treatment of Jews during the Second World War. Various plaques in both Spanish and English provided some of the historical facts of this atrocity. Nearby, the Path of the Righteous memorialized those who assisted the Jews and others that fell victim in the pursuit of trying to protect their Jewish friends and neighbors. Risking their lives they were true heroes and are duly honored here.

Within a few steps, I approached one of the most recent monuments dating to the late 1970s. It was here that I learned about the Lod Airport massacre where three Japanese terrorists attacked the terminal in 1972. Seventeen pilgrims from Puerto Rico lost their lives during the assault which resulted in 26 deaths and 80 injuries.

As I completed run and exploration along Constitution Avenue, I learned so much about the people and history of Puerto Rico. The highlight of my visit was the Capitol building and as I completed my morning run, I had certainly worked up an appetite. I think it’s time to continue my education of the culture of Puerto Rico and try some authentic Puerto Rican food. Next stop…..Raices!

During your travels, do you immerse yourself in the history and culture of the place you were visiting? Where was that place and what did you learn? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave your comments below! Many thanks for reading about our walk along the Constitution Avenue. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

San Juan’s Antiguo Casino
Ponce de Leon Ave and Norzagaray
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 641 7722 (Open by appointment only)

Ateneo Puertorriqueño
Telephone: 787 721 3877 (Open by appointment only)

Casa de Espana
Ave. Constitución #9,
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 939 272 4054, 787 724 1044 or 787 722 3611
(Open by appointment only)

El Capitolio de Puerto Rico
Ponce de Leon and Munoz Riviera Aves.
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 721 5200 extension 301

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
Amenities: Tours are given in Spanish and English
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours, depending on if you take the tour
Tips for Your Visit: You will be required to pass through security to enter.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

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

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico:

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

The American Red Cross of San Juan

Walkway of the Presidents

The Capitol Building in San Juan

Ending the Spanish-American War

The End of Slavery in Puerto Rico

First Encounter with the Tainos

Christopher Columbus Arriving in Puerto Rico

The Holocaust Memorial, San Juan

Wright Brothers Memorial at Kill Devil Hills, NC

21 May 201716 September 2024

Approaching the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, the colossal granite sculpture was the first monument that came into view. The shrine had been erected at the location of the first engine-powered flights on Carolina’s natural sand dunes in the year 1903.

Since Orville and Wilbur Wright flew the first airplane in 1903 at Kill Devil Hills, the field of aviation has come a long way. Two young brothers from Dayton, Ohio decided that the Outer Banks would be the perfect location for launching their aircraft based on its wide open spaces and optimal wind conditions.

The national park’s Visitor Center doubled as a small museum displaying a replica of the first airplane. In addition, relics from the Wrights’ original research and initial experiments are also exhibited. A new structure opened in 2003 marking the hundred-year anniversary of the Wright brother’s “First in Flight” accomplishment, referred to as the “Century of Flight” museum.

Within the glider room, there was a staging area for park ranger talks about the Wright Brothers and their successful attempts of flight. The walls were covered with other notable flight pioneers who have contributed to aeronautical advancement throughout the years.

Outdoors, visitors walked the Flight Line, which is the length of each of the four successful flights as indicated by stone markers. Nearby were replicas of the Wrights’ temporary living quarters and the first airplane hangar. Small monuments honoring the Wright Brothers and the first flight were sparsely staged throughout the field to include a tablet erected in 1923 by the National Aeronautical Association and a roundel of the 100^th anniversary of the first flight.

During the unveiling of the 60 foot monolith memorial in 1932, Orville Wright was present. At the top of the monument is a lighthouse-like beacon at the top where, with advanced reservations, a select few can explore. Built on the 90 foot tall Kill Devil Hills, the granite monument is flanked by busts of both Wilbur and Orville Wright.

Wright Brothers National Memorial is an amazing historical park for enthusiastic aviators and history buffs. Several interactive opportunities and ranger talks are provided to visitors of all ages.

Have you visited Wright Brothers National Memorial? I would be interested in hearing about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for checking out my blog post about the Wright Brothers National Memorial and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Local Attraction:

Wright Brothers National Memorial
1401 National Park Drive
Manteo, NC 27954
Phone: 252 473 2111

Admission Fee: An entrance pass is required for all visitors. The cost for an individual adult is $10 per person, 16 years and older. Children 15 years and younger are free.
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 5:00PM with the exception of Christmas Day
Amenities: ranger demonstrations, historical talks, reconstructed historical buildings, visitor’s center
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the sand dunes and Atlantic Ocean.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking as there is an uphill walk towards the entrance. Bring a kite to fly at nearby Jockey’s Ridge Sand Dunes! For the outside exhibits, wear sunscreen and bring a bottle of water.

Hotel Accommodation:

Days Inn by Wyndham
201 N. Virginia Dare Trail
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Telephone: 252 489 4181

Restaurant Recommendation:

Henry’s Restaurant
3396 N. Croatan Highway
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Telephone; 252 261 2025

For a starter, I had to try the she crab bisque, which was creamy and loaded with crab. For my main meal, I ordered the BBQ lunch platter which included cole slaw, french fries and hushpuppies, a classic Carolina meal.

Visiting KitchenAid for its Annual August Sale

26 March 201614 December 2024

It was a beautiful day in August and I drove the hour and a half commute to downtown Greenville, Ohio to check out the KitchenAid Experience retail center. I have a love for all things KitchenAid and was so surprised to learn that this amazing brand was actually made in my home state of Ohio.

As soon as I stepped inside, I was salivating from the selection of exceptional kitchen products in so many colors. KitchenAid products were first introduced to the public in 1919 with the development of the stand mixer. An idea, developed by engineer Herbert Johnston, this appliance became the “best kitchen aid” a woman could have ever had.

For a time, I envied every woman who had a KitchenAid mixer. I saved for two years to purchase one for myself in hopes of making the perfect meringue and whipped mashed potatoes. I was more excited now to browse through all of the attachments for my mixer and any additional appliances that would match my new toy.

Visitors are also invited to attend cooking demonstrations and events revolved around the art of cooking and baking. With the help of KitchenAid products, attendees can learn how to create every day meals to gourmet dishes to bring out the true chef in everyone. Check out their online schedule for classes which are offered on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Viewing the KitchenAid’s complete line of bakeware, cookware and cutlery, I decided to make my way to the basement to check out some of their refurbished items on sale. I was also excited to learn more about the KitchenAid brand by visiting their downstairs museum.

The KitchenAid Stand Mixer were initially made for commercial bakers. At the Greenville plant, the mixer for home use was produced in 1919, weighing in at 68 pounds. The museum displays original stand mixers and shows its evolution from its early prototypes to the most recent designs available in stores today.

The KitchenAid mixer in the 1930s

The 1940s KitchenAid Mixer

1950s Evolution of the KitchenAid Mixer

The introduction of the home Dishwasher in the 1960s

One of my favorite stops at the museum was the Julia Child’s Stand Mixer display.

The 1,000,000 gold plated mixer

While the KitchenAid brand has been producing their legendary stand mixer for years, today, visitors can leave with a number of products for the home cook. From blenders to toasters and in between, the KitchenAid Experience is a great way to purchase one of the world’s best known kitchen products and attend a cooking demonstration to learn more about their additional offerings.

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

What to See and What to Do:

KitchenAid Experience Retail Center
423 South Broadway
Greenville, OH 45331
888 886 8318

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 9AM to 6PM.
Amenities: Store with discounted items on refurbished products
Guided Tours and Informational Booklets: Self-guided tours of the KitchenAid museum.
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Call for information on cooking classes, extended hours and special Sunday and holiday hours.

Factory Tours
1701 KitchenAid Way
Greenville OH 45331
800 961 0959

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Tours are conducted Tuesday through Friday at 12:30PM
Guided Tours and Informational Booklets: Guided tours of the factory are Tuesday through Friday at 12:30.
Length of Tour: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Factory tours are subject to manufacturing schedules. Call for availability, walk-ins are welcome. Appointments are required for groups of 8 or more. Enclosed shoes are required (closed toe and heel) and safety glasses are provided. You must be 12 years of age or older. Motorcoach groups should schedule a date and time for your visit.

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH 45380
Telephone: 937 526 3020

Where to Eat:

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH 45331
Telephone: 937 459 4405

Where to Drink:

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH 45346
Telephone: 937 273 8381

Exploring An Ancient Archaeological Site, Fort Ancient Earthworks in Oregonia, OH

30 July 201514 December 2024

Tightening my boots in preparation for the trail, I was excited to be reaching the Fort Ancient Earthworks for a late morning hike. Since moving to Columbus, I have been fascinated by the Ohio Indian tribes that once made their home in the valley. I wanted to learn more about the Hopewell Indians, their customs, history and their building of the multiple mounds throughout the state.

I found a great parking spot close to Morgan’s Livery and Canoe in Oregonia, specifically designated for hikers and cyclists. Conveniently located near the trailhead, I crossed over the bridge where I shortly arrived for my hike.

I walked along the paved bike path for a short distance when I noticed the entrance to the Fort Ancient trail. It was springtime and a bit overcast, which was the perfect combination for an afternoon hike. I was happy for the sign that reminded me of the $12 entrance fee and for the distance calculations for reaching both the earthworks and the museum.

Although the hike was not far, it was steep. It took me about an hour to reach the earthworks but it was well worth the trek. I noticed a sign guiding me to the South Overlook so I followed it. I reached the overlook and realized that this would be a wonderful place to visit during the fall. There were so many trees in the distance and I imagined the colorful display when the leaves began to change. I decided to head back towards the museum passing a large number of hills that reach heights of about 23 feet.

As I continued to explore the small section of the mounds stretching over three and a half miles, there were signs that reminded me to stay off of the prehistoric earthworks. There were also several markers that provided information about the Indians as well as the history of the area.

Researchers first believed that the high walls were used for defense and protection, but their theory was later disproven by archaeologists who confirmed it was used for religious and social purposes.

The map showed that I was heading north and walking towards the visitor’s center. I noticed a group of people dressed up as Indians in the distance and could see a couple of large teepees. As I approached the area walking along the mounds, I realized that there must have been an Indian celebration the night before.

There were multiple tables set up with Indian handicrafts and artwork. I was impressed with the craftsmanship of the headdresses, clothing and tools.

I continued the trail towards the museum surrounded by the earthworks. I paid the entrance fee and began to explore the exhibit. Several stations were set up that explained the primitive way of life for the Indians in this area. There were miniature scale models to show how the villages were set up and the types of housing that was constructed during that time.

In addition to the lives of the Hopewells and Fort Ancients, there are displays of animals that once roamed the region but are now extinct.

I was also fascinated by the artifacts that were found in the area and the creative artwork that was discovered during excavations.

One of my favorite exhibits chronicled the later lives of Tecumseh and his brother Tenskwatawa and their final days in Ohio. I grew up watching the outdoor drama, Tecumseh, that took place each summer and looked forward to it each year.

I think we often times lose sight that the Indians were the First Ohioans. I find it wonderful that Ohio makes an effort to preserve the history of these Indians and their tribes. From outdoor dramas to museums and from literature to parks, we can continue to understand a culture and people that have made an impact on the history of our great country, the United States.

Fort Ancient hosts an annual Fort Ancient Spring Wildflower Walk around the first Saturday in April each year.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Fort Ancient? I would love to hear about your experience if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Fort Ancient Earthworks to learn more about the prehistoric Indians of Ohio! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fort Ancient Archaeological Park
6123 OH-350
Oregonia, OH 45054
Telephone: 513 932 4421

Admission Fee: $7 for adults, $6 for seniors (60+), $6 for students aged 6 – 17; children under 6 and members are free.
Hours: April through November from 10AM to 5PM on Tuesday through Saturday, Sunday from noon to 5 and closed on Mondays. December through March from 10AM to 5PM on Sunday and noon to 5 on Sunday; closed Monday through Friday except by appointment
Amenities: Outdoor archaeological site, museum, children’s groups, tour groups, facility rental, museum store, restrooms, picnic area
Scenic View: Wander among the mysterious Indian mounds
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Do not climb upon the mounds. The site is a religious and hollowed location for the Indians, so one should visit in reverence taking this into consideration.

Where to Stay:

The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel
27 South Broadway Street
Lebanon, OH 45036
Telephone: 513 932 5065

Where to Eat:

The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel
27 South Broadway Street
Lebanon, OH 45036
Telephone: 513 932 5065

I began my dinner with The Golden Lamb’s famous sauerkraut balls. I selected the Noodles & Ale Cheese from the House Specialties, with smoked chicken, andouille sausage, campanelle pasta and creamy amber ale cheese sauce. For dessert, I could not resist ordering Sister Lizzie’s Shaker Sugar Pie with Tahitian Vanilla Gelato.

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

What 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.

Parking lot is beside the Morgan Canoe and Livery Center

Teepees at Fort Ancient