Exploring World Civilizations at the British Museum

17 December 20243 May 2025

I was overwhelmed with excitement as I entered each of the rooms at the British Museum. I have never before seen so much history represented in one place. Unprepared for the amazing relics and archaeological objects spanning thousands of years, I was excited for the opportunity to glimpse into the lives and cultures of so many ancient civilizations. Established in 1753, the British Museum is the oldest public museum in the world and in my opinion, one of the most fascinating.

Credited as the first “archeologist”, Roman Queen Helena’s pilgrimage to the Holy Land in the 4^th century AD was focused on preserving the sites and relics relating to biblical accounts of the life of Jesus Christ. It was her desire to protect the Christian items and locations so that others could visit them in the future.

Today, museums such as the British Museum, house spectacular finds through archaeological digs and private collections that span thousands, even millions of years. Covering the rise and fall of some of the most powerful civilizations such as Egypt, Assyria, Greece and Rome, these insights explain their religious, political and societal beliefs. From artwork to architecture and skeletons to sarcophagus, visitors have the ability to understand how these societies evolved over many generations.

Ancient Egypt:

The mummies are one of the most popular exhibits among visitors and are located in rooms 61 – 66 upstairs. On display are some of the various instruments used by embalmers to preserve the bodies before they were entombed. This floor also houses Coptic art, fancy jewelry and one of my favorite statues, the bronze cat with the gold nose ring.

Entering through the main entrance and arriving into the Grand Court, the Egyptian Exhibit is located to the left of the Reading Room in Room 3. Displays of large, colossal statues and Egyptian sculptures dominate the space dating from 3000 BC. One of the most historically significant finds in all of ancient history is the Rosetta Stone.

One of the most visited objects in the British Museum, along with the mummies, is the Rosetta Stone. Unearthed in the Egyptian desert in 1799, the Stone was used by Francois Champollion, a French scholar, to decipher Egyptian hieroglyphics. This black slab of rock included three inscriptions in three different languages (Classical Greek and the two forms of ancient Egyptian) which assisted in the decoding of the Egyptian pictographs. Their biggest breakthrough was when it was discovered that the name of ruler Ptolemy V appeared on the sixth line of the stone. The Rosetta Stone dates back to 196 BC, made in honor of the coronation of Ptolemy. Large stones, such as this one, would have been displayed in temples all across Egypt and there are another seventeen quite similar that have since been discovered.

Not far from the Rosetta Stone (about 20 steps), is the Limestone False Door and Architrave of Ptahshepses dating back to 2400 BC. The door as well as the lintel are inscribed with hieroglyphics which tell the life story of a man named Ptahshepses. False doors were similar to our grave markings today, yet they were used as a ceremonial entrance into the room in which the mummified deceased was buried with his belongings. The purpose of the door was to allow the soul to come and go as it pleased but also used to keep out grave robbers from removing the earthly possessions of the dead.

Towering over the Ancient Egypt complex on the main floor, I easily spotted the Colossal Statue of Ramesses II in the distance. Ramesses took the throne in 1279 BC and reigned for 66 years. Known for his building accomplishments erecting temples, tombs, palaces and a large number of statues of himself, it is debated that he may have been the King of Egypt during the Exodus of Moses.

Weighing in at twenty tons, the full size sculpture stood 8 – 9 feet high. It was the largest Egyptian sculptures the British had ever seen and only the upper half of Ramesses statue is displayed at the British Museum. The statue dates back to approximately 1250 BC and was found in the Ramesseum, the pharaoh’s mortuary temple in Thebes. This memorial complex was built so that Ramesses could be worshiped as a god for many years after his death.

Exiting the Egyptian Room through the door facing the back of the Ramesses statue, there is a set of stairs that leads up to the mummies, coffins and one of the most fascinating displays I had ever seen, the human remains of the Gebelein Man (nicknamed Ginger due to a tuft of reddish hair) a naturally preserved body.

The body was discovered in 1856 in the desert of Egypt in a grave covered by stones. A combination of elements contributed to the preservation of the human tissue to include the hot sand naturally dehydrating and protecting the body and the additional layer of grave stones may have kept animals away. Scientists estimate Ginger to have died 5400 years ago, long before the pyramids were erected. He was found buried with bowls, beads and a flint blade next to his arm.

New technology has brought additional information to light about the death of Ginger. With digital imagery, it was determined that Ginger was “certainly murdered” and “his injuries suggest he was the victim of a deliberate, violent killing….consistent with a stab wound”. Additional information states that he was between the ages of 18 and 21 and was “stabbed by a blade of copper or flint at least five inches long.”

Ancient Assyria

Assyria, known today as modern-day Iraq, was a power-house civilization of the Middle East. Making their way as conquerors and traders, this Semitic culture expanded their dominion in a fierce ruthless manner terrorizing their neighbors from 900 – 600 BC. Some of the most beautiful artwork comes from the Assyrians on display at the British Museum.

Backtracking back to the Rosetta Stone in the Egyptian Gallery in Room 6, there are Two Winged Lions with Human Heads dating back to 870 BC. Found guarding the Assyrian palace of Ashurnasirpal II at Nimrud was called the Lamassu, the god of protection which defended the king from evil spirits. What makes this statue interesting is that it has 5 legs. The small marks between the loins of the Lamassu is cuneiform writing.

Passing through the Two Winged Lion entrance, turn right into Room 7, a narrow red hallway leading into a room with brown stoned panels. The beautifully detailed reliefs would have been painted and varnished, displayed in the throne room of Ashurnasirpal II’s palace. These intricately carved panels tell the story of Ashurnasirpal’s victories and hail him as the greatest king of the world.

Known to be ruthless in battle, the Assyrians carried their brutality into their leisurely activities as depicted in a set of reliefs in Room 10 labeled the Royal Lion Hunt. The impressive artwork depicts the horses and dogs preparing for the hunt while lions await unknowingly until the lions are killed by arrows. Lion hunts were the sport of kings and when wild lions were not available, staged hunts were arranged with animals bred for the fight. One of the reliefs shows King Ashurbanipal riding in a chariot participating in the hunt. Soon after the king’s death, the civilization of Assyria is overthrown by the Babylonians in 613 BC.

In Room 55, an extraordinary artifact is on display. Dating between 1500 – 500 BC it is identified as the “Flood Tablet”, which was found in King Ashurbanipal’s library. While many people are familiar with the story of Noah and the Great Flood, according to this writing, a similar story to the biblical account is referred to as the “Epic of Gilgamesh”. The gods planned to destroy the world with a flood, so Ut-napshti built a large boat to save his family and every type of animal. Of course the finding of this documentation in the late 1800’s caused quite a scandal due to the similarity between the Gilgamesh and Noah accounts.

Ancient Greece:

Visiting Greece last summer, a trip to the Acropolis was one of the highlights of my travels. I remember standing at the bottom stair leading up towards the Propylaea. This Panathenaic Way led to the Parthenon, the temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and victory. Inside, there once stood a colossal statue of her likeness made of gold and ivory, while the exterior was just as extravagant, with columns and colorful relief carvings.

Today, the ninety-two reliefs, known as the Elgin Marbles, are on display at the British Museum. These metopes, carved out of stone, depict war and battle scenes in elaborate detail. Some of them represent mythological conflict, while others portray actual battles. While many visitors stroll the exhibit to view the fifth century artwork, many are also intrigued by the political controversy that surrounds the display…should these ancient artifacts stay in London or should they be returned to Greece?

Ancient Rome:

The Romans embraced many gods from various cultures and celebrated an assortment of beliefs. From Persia, they adopted the worship of Mithras, or Mithraism which involved a number of initiations and rituals. The Mysteries of Mithras lasted in Rome between the first and fourth centuries so there is limited knowledge about the religion. It was so secretive that there were underground temples. What remains of this faith are several marble sculptures portraying the god Mithras, including the Statue of Mithras on display at the British Museum.

Dating somewhere around the 2^nd century, the beautifully carved stone shows Mithras performing the ritual slaughtering of a bull. Wearing a Phyrgian cap and trousers, his attire depicts the fashion of the east. The bull’s blood was said to have had cleansing properties, which would explain the dog and snake licking the blood, while the scorpion is shown attacking the bull’s testicles.

The detail of this sculpture, the flowing skirt and cape, and the folds in the shirt are exquisite. The sculptor is unknown, but it is one of the most fascinating pieces of Roman art in the museum.

The British Museum collection includes additional artifacts from other cultures around the world. For example, the North American Otter Pipe, found in Ohio dates back to 200 BC – AD 100 or the Shang bronzes from 15=00 BC. There are modern plaques from Africa, Mayan statues, and the Lewis Chessman found on an Isle in Scotland. Even the Great Court and Reading Room are both impressive and historical.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the British Museum? What was your most fascinating memory of your visit? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Want to know where to go, eat and stay in London? Check out more of my recommendations below for a magical experience in London! Many thanks for exploring the British Museum through my post and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The British Museum
Great Russell Street
Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7323 8000

Admission Fee: There is no fee for visiting the British Museum
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5:30PM and open until 8:30PM on Fridays
Amenities: scheduled tours, audio guides are provided in 10 languages, special exhibitions, restaurant, cafes, shops
Scenic View: Photograph the glass ceiling of the round reading room designed by Sidney Smirke
Length of Visit: At least 2 – 3 hours to see the highlights
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, pick up a map of the venue for planning your visit.

Where to Stay:

The Montague on the Gardens
15 Montague Street
London WC1B 5BJ, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7637 1001

Where to Eat:

Afternoon Tea at The Montague on the Gardens
15 Montague Street
London WC1B 5BJ, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7612 8416

On my first visit, I happened upon the Safari Themed afternoon tea which included an African-themed menu. I enjoyed a selection of finger sandwiches of African-spiced chicken and apricot, scones baked fresh with Devonshire clotted creme, a giraffe macaron with toasted coconut mouse, banana meringue and a wide variety of teas to include traditional, flavored, aromatic, fruit and green teas. I couldn’t pass up the Leopard Cocktail made with Amarula cream liquor, decorated with leopard spots and a paw print.

On Sunday, I returned for the Free Flowing Champagne garnished with fresh strawberries. From 2 to 6, I could enjoy as much champagne as my heart desired along with a wonderful selection of scones, pastries, sandwiches and cakes.

What to Eat:

Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in Piccadilly
Bangers and Mash at Mother Mash in Soho
Beef Welington at Simpsons on the Strand
Cockles, a type of clam, are best tried at Borough Market
Crumpets, similar to English Muffins should be ordered at Ask for Janice in Farringdon
Eton Mess is an amazing British dessert made of crushed meringue, cream ans strawberries at the National Cafe at the National Gallery
Fish & Chips at Poppies Camden in London
Full English Breakfast, which also includes blood pudding (a blood sausage) at The Ivy
Pie and Mash at the Windmill Mayfair
Pimm’s Cup, a gin-based drink made with ginger ale or lemon lime soda, fruit and mint is the official drink of Wimbledon and is best ordered at Lido Cafe Bar in Hyde Park
Scones at Gail’s Bakery
Scotch Egg is a dish that includes a hard boiled egg wrpeed in sausage meet, breaded and then fried; Try this at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in Piccadilly
Shepard’s Pie is on the menu at The Ivy Restaurant
Sticky Toffee Pudding at the Queens Arms in Kensington
Sunday Roast with Yorkshire Pudding in Nottinghill at The Windsor Castle
Toad in the Hole, a pastry filled with sausage at Bistro Union
Victoria Sponge is a vanilla sponge cake filled with jam and whipped cream at the Wallace Collection Museum

What to Read:

A Parcel for Anna Browne by Miranda Dickinson
A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks
Absolute Beginners by Colin MacInnes
Act Like It by Lucy Parker
Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding
London: The Novel by Edward Rutherford
My Best Friend’s Girl by Dorothy Kroomson
Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

Photo Guide to London:

The Lobby of the British Museum
Covent Garden Market
St. Paul Cathedral from the Restaurant Madison at One New Change, Millenium Bridge or Paternoster Square
Summerset House, especially during the Christmas holiday
The houses of Notting Hill
The architecture of Pancras Renaissance Hotel
Saturday market at Portobello
For amazing views, photos from the Coppa Club, close to Tower Bridge
The lovely pink cafe in London, Peggy Porschen
Panorama of London from Sky Garden Rooftop
Street art in Shoreditch
Leadenhall Market looks like Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley
South Bank for photos of the Thames
Panoramic Views of London from the London Eye
Saint Aymes Cafe for lovely feminine photos

The Island of Delos: A Lesson in Greek Mythology

1 May 20233 May 2025

As the cruise ship arrived in Mykonos, I learned that I could board a ferry to Delos, the island of the gods. I immediately approached the kiosk to pick up my ticket since I had not made previous arrangements and tickets sell out fast. In only a couple of hours I would be departing on the MV Delos Express and exploring the uninhabited island considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

As the ferry approached the island, I was overwhelmed by the number of ruins sprawled out across acres of land. I purchased my ticket to enter the archaeological site and was provided a map of Delos. Local guides were on hand for an additional charge to those visitors who were interested in personal tours.

I began my adventure searching for the Temples of Apollo and Artemis. Greek mythology revolves around the story of this brother and sister duo and their temples which were of most importance. The Temple of Apollo once housed the Treasury of Greece until it was relocated in the 5th century BC. Even after the island was abandoned, Greeks continued to visit the temple for the annual Panegyris festival in spring. The remains of the temple are sparse, but visitors can see the giant marble pedestal which once displayed the 35-foot Apollo statue.

Since the 1st century AD, the island was left abandoned and excavations by French archaeologists began in 1872. By then, the island of Delos was completely covered in silt and only one-fifth of the site has been uncovered. So much more to be discovered.

The Lion Terrace was undoubtedly one of the most fascinating sites on the island. Mythological legend claims that the statues were provided by the island of Naxos to guard the Sacred Lake as Leto gave birth to the twins. Replicas of the lions continue to watch over the lake, while the originals are housed in the nearby archaeological museum.

At the Sacred Lake stands the palm tree of Leto. It is said that Hera took hold of this tree while in labor with the twins, giving birth first to Artemis and then her brother Apollo. The lake no longer exists because it was drained by the French archaeologists to prevent bacterial disease and other dangerous organisms from growing.

Where once stood the Temple of Dionysus, is now the Phallus of Apollo. Not only was the phallus a symbol of Dionysus, It was erected as a representation of Apollo, the god of Patros (the father of all), the progenitor of the male ancestor, the symbol of fertility.

A residential area stands to the south of the island where a neighborhood of homes were discovered. During excavations, the archaeologists have determined the wealth of these families based upon the beautiful floor mosaics. The minuscule tiles and delicate delicate artwork have survived over many years, protected by the silt. The museum houses additional floor mosaics to shield them from the impacts of weather and the salty environment.

I can see Mount Kynthos on the left as I navigate through the network of streets in this ancient neighborhood of sorts. Once a bustling port town, the island of Delos was home to over 30,000 residents and an estimated 3,000 shops.

Through the maze, I found the Dolphin House known for its spectacular dolphin mosaic with a circle enclosed by a square. It is one of two mosaics that were signed by its original artist. The gorgeous mosaic in the House of Dionysos shows the winged goddess riding a tiger and is an amazing example of Hellenistic art. Within the House of Trident, the perfectly refurbished floor mosaic displays a dolphin, wrapped around an anchor.

Within walking distance was the Theater at Delos which seated approximately 5,000 spectators. In need of extensive repair, even in its current state, one could see the magnitude of its size.

The island of Delos was the home to Mount Kynthos (in the background) which rises 375 feet and is the highest point on the island. Unfortunately I did not have enough time to climb up to the top of the mountain to see the remains of the Temple to Zeus and Athena but I heard other ferry passengers discussing their spectacular view from its peak.

It was decreed by the Athenians in the sixth century BC that no one could be born or die here. The residents at the time were relocated to a nearby island, Rinia to keep the island of Delos pure for the gods.

Just as I had expected, my excursion to Delos was well worth the visit. I took the time on the ferry back to imagine the island with inhabitants and wished I could have seen it in its prime. An island dedicated to the gods? Not a bad place to be born.

What are your thoughts on Delos? Have you been to the island? I would love to hear from you if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Island of Delos accessible by Naxos, Mykonos or private yacht.

Admission Fee: 12 Euros if you are not paying for a guided tour; Guided tours are 50 Euros.
Hours: The earliest ferry departs from Mykonos at 10 AM while the last ferry from Delos to Mykonos departs at 7:30 PM. Another ferry departs at 1:30PM, so if you are traveling by cruise ship, you will want to ensure that you select the early ferry.
Scenic View: Amazing views of ancient civilization and the amazing colors of the harbor.
Length of Visit: 3 hours or more to explore the ruins, climb Mt. and visit the museum.
Travel Tip: You must ensure you take the correct ferry whether you are arriving to the island of Mykonos by cruise ship or visiting the island on your own. There are no accommodations on the island and for many years the island does not allow overnight stays.

Where to Stay:

Not available on the island of Delos

Where to Eat:

There is a cafe on the island, but the food is basic and a bit overpriced, Either bring something with you or snacks or wait until you return to your original location.

For more information about the beautiful country of Greece, visit my following links!

Santorini: Life on a Volcano
Mykonos: Whitewashed and Wild
Corfu: An Old Town, Palace and Monastery
Corinth, A Biblical and Historical Perspective
The Site of Olympia and its Role in the Olympic Games
The Archaeological Museum at Olympia
Athens, Greece: A Living Museum

The Journey to North Bali

25 February 202222 September 2024

The smell of coffee brought a smile to my face the morning after New Year’s Eve. Despite staying up late to welcome in the New Year, I had a restful sleep and was excited to make the journey to northern Bali. Before checking into the hotel on Lovina Beach, there would be plenty of time to make a few stops along the way. Wayan and his family wanted to drive around Denpasar to show me the busy city life of the south before reaching the more laid-back region of Singaraja.

Our first stop was in the heart of the island’s capital. First, the family needed to present an offering to their Hindu gods and offer up a prayer. There was a temple close by so, they completed their morning custom and then we visited one of the local shopping plazas to browse for souvenirs. This was the perfect location for purchasing a sarong for visiting the temples and there were so many options and a variety of designs. The children were eagerly excited to help me select the perfect one.

From clothing to temple decorations, the Balinese market offered a wide selection of products, quite similar to our large discount chains in the United States, but much more fun and exciting. Outside the shopping plaza were food carts that lined the street where a quick, healthy meal of meatball soups, noodle dishes or wraps could be purchased.

The Balinese are known for their intrinsic woodwork and take pride in the ornate furnishings they design. From decorating their everyday living space to adorning their family’s home temple, the Balinese artisans are very skilled and in high demand.

Wayan explained that each Hindu family has a small temple in their home to carry out their daily religious ceremonies. The altars are decorated in such detail to include carvings of the gods, with their exquisite artwork and vibrant colors. The shopping centers sell these types of items for their worship space and Wayan wanted to look at the new artwork on display. After purchasing a few bowls to hold their offerings to the gods, we were ready to start our journey north.

Before exiting the city, Wayan pointed out a tower-like structure, beautifully designed with vibrant colors known as a waddhu. Standing alongside the road, it had been created in preparation for a cremation ceremony and I learned that the higher the tower, the more important the person. This ceremony is one of Bali’s oldest customs that dates back to thousands of years.

The Balinese Cremation Ceremony, also known as Ngaben, is a spiritual ritual of the Hindu that is viewed as a celebration. It is believed that if the loved one has completed their purification on earth, they will be united with God. If the purification is incomplete, they will be reborn as someone else, returning to earth and starting the process again in a new life until purification is complete.

The date of the ceremonial rite will be selected by the Hindu priest and the family will make additional arrangements such as making the Lambu (the coffin), selecting the Gamelan musicians for the procession and purchasing the offerings to the gods.

After the service and procession, the priest will ignite the waddhu from the holy fire, burning the body until it has turned to ash. The remains will be scattered into the sea and ceremonial activities will last over the next twelve days in honor of their loved one that has passed.

With a two hour drive ahead of us, we left the city late that afternoon. The traffic began to lessen and the scenery to change in the most dramatic of ways. We traded in our stoplights and highways for mountains and rice fields. It was a quiet, relaxing drive and we made several stops to take some photos and enjoy the countryside.

We had been driving for about twenty minutes when Wayan’s wife, Candra noticed the fruit market on the side of the road. The fruit hanging from the poles is the durian fruit and when I told them I had not tried it before, they were happy to stop.

As soon as we exited the car, the strong smell of kerosene was overwhelming. In addition to its scent, the fruit has a spiky exterior. The durian’s pungent odor is one of its characteristics, but if you can get past it, the flesh is said to have a nutty custard flavor. The market provides free samples, so with a little coaching, I tried it.

I was happy that there were other fruit selections available as well, so I purchased bananas, rambutan and another local favorite, the starfruit.

Our small snack of fruit was enough to tie us over until lunch, and it was time to make another stop. As we pulled into the Ulun Danu Temple, Wayan mentioned that this location is one of the most photographed temples in Bali. He knew that I wanted to see Bali’s dramatic landscapes and the view of the temple surrounded by the misty mountains was magical.

Close to the temple was a small food stand where we could order authentic Balinese food. I tried the Bakso soup made of chicken and noodles in a bone broth and had a small order of spinach chips with a peanut crust. The meal was extremely fresh and satisfying.

Across from the food stand, children and teens were hanging out with their friends on the pier. Some were holding fishing poles while other seemed to be catching up on the latest gossip at school. We sat along the deck and gazed out into the scenic view before continuing our journey towards Singaraja.

Soon after leaving the temple, the sky began to darken. Passing a small group of trees, I noticed a monkey on the side of the road. The children were just as excited to see him so we pulled over for a closer look. He reappeared in the clearing along with a couple of friends and seemed so unafraid of humans.

Pande, Wayan’s oldest son, told me about the temple near their home where several monkeys lived. Wayan and Candra mentioned that it was on our way to the celebration that we would be attending later in the week.

I thought about that monkey the rest of our drive into Lovina Beach and about the fact that he had no fear of people. Candra said that the monkeys are a protected animal on the island and that they find refuge in the many temples.

We arrived at the Aditya Beach Resort where I had made my reservations, checking in around 9. I said goodbye to the Sunarsa family, who would meet back up with me in a couple of days.

My room was perfect and I was so tired that I knew it would be another great night of sleep. As the Indonesians say, Selamat Malam! (Good night!)

Have you visited the island of Bali? Where did you stay and what did you do? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for following my visit to the island of Bali! Happy Travels!

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

What to See and What to Do:

Erlangga 2 Shopping Center
Jalan Nusa Kambangan no. 162
Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Admission Cost: Free, open to the public
Hours: 8AM to 10PM
Amenities: Food court close to venue
Length of Time to Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Best kept secret for souvenirs and local items at inexpensive prices. Some of the best deals on woodwork, sarongs, souvenirs, t-shirts, Bali textiles and artwork.

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple
Jalan Raya Candi Kunung-Bedugul
Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia

Where to Stay:

Aditya Beach Resort
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

Where to Eat:

Ulun Danu Bratan Temple – Food Stalls
Jalan Raya Candi Kunung-Bedugul
Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia

I cannot get enough of the Bakso soup. I love the spices and it tastes so fresh!!

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

Forest on the Way to North Bali

Exploring Bali: Singaraja and Lovina Beach

22 January 202222 September 2024

Early morning sunrise on Lovina Beach, Bali

Just as I had predicted, I had a great night’s sleep at the Aditya Beach Resort on Lovina Beach in Bali. Waking up early, I wanted to walk along the beach at dawn while the weather was still brisk and invigorating. Besides the lonely fisherman and a couple of tourists, I had the beach all to myself. I walked the short length of the coast where rowboats had been pushed up along the sand next to piles of seaweed and debris and birds were searching for their morning breakfast.

Dolphin Cruise Excursion at Lovina Beach, Bali

On my way back to the hotel, the beach began to liven up with activity. A group of sightseers were stepping into a boat for a dolphin cruise and joggers slipped past the stray dogs.

Lovina is known for its large school of dolphins and early morning cruises are a popular excursion for tourists during season. Watching the boat drift into the horizon, I met the hotel security guard, Ajit, who stopped by to say good morning. Having met him at check in last night, he offered to take me around to the local sites. Since he knows my friend Wayan, I took him up on his offer.

Hindu Offerings, Bali, Indonesia

I strolled back to my room to prepare for the day and noticed several pedestals that contained pieces of fruit, flower petals and burning incense. These are the offerings that the Balinese offer up to their gods throughout the day and are visible on the side of the road, sitting on small roadside shrines or near the large temples throughout the island.

Buddhist Monestary in Northern Bali

Ajit returned on his motorcycle and I told him that I would like to visit the Buddhist Monastery. He also suggested a nearby waterfall and the hot springs, so we had a full day ahead of us.

The atmosphere of the monastery is one of reverence and solitude. Although the island is predominantly Hindu, there are two active places of worship for Buddhists in Bali as well.

Beautiful Fountains at the Monastery

The spectacular views of the coast from the Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery went on for miles. The tropical trees met up with the beaches of Lovina for a beautiful backdrop. The paintings and sculptures within the monastery were unusually lifelike and three dimensional.

Lily ponds and fountains gave the monastery a religious sense of calm. Protecting their surroundings, the monkey gods took a stand to ward off evil spirits. The soothing sound of water and gentle rustle of leaves from the wind were comforting as I searched for koi fish under the lily pads.

The Buddhist Eightfold Path of Enlightenment

The Eight-Fold Path is the final teaching of the Buddhist Four Noble Truths. A stairway at the monastery representing the steps of these teachings are said to lead to spiritual enlightenment and the end of suffering.

The Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery is an exceptionally well maintained temple and open to the public as a place of worship. The grounds are exquisitely manicured and the views out towards the sea from atop of the temple are magnificent. Signs throughout the property strongly communicate that this is not a tourist attraction but rather a temple and should be treated with reverence and respect. Proper attire is required and courtesy must be given to those who visit.

Northern Bali Waterfall

Enjoying a peaceful morning at the temple, I was ready for our next excursion, a hike to one of north Bali’s most treacherous waterfalls. Ajit explained that the falls is a local favorite and is not open to tourists. He guaranteed that this hike would be a challenge but the view would be well worth the trek.

The concrete path was manageable at the start but became narrow as we closed in on the falls. The course quickly changed as the mist produced a muddy trail we were cautiously trying to avoid. Eventually the pathway disappeared and we resorted to rock hopping amidst the rushing water between the stones.

I was close to giving up and turning back when I noticed the shrines appear on the side of the hill. The water coming from the cascades was so strong and powerful that I was frightened I may lose my footing.

We sat for a few moments on a couple of large rocks so I could catch my breath. The mist from the falls felt so cool on my face, dampening my hair and clothes. I decided that I was ready to take a few more steps and as I rounded the corner, I was able to see the highlight of my hike, the larger of the two falls.

I wished I could have enjoyed the view for a while longer, but working to keep myself upright was draining my energy and I was ready to find security back on dry land. The hike back was not as difficult and it seemed as though we reached the entrance in half of the time it took to reach the falls.

Visiting the hot springs could not have been more appropriate after a long hike. Set among the hillside there are three pools of water to enjoy a moment of rest and relaxation. The first pool at the top is the hottest while the bottom is the coolest of the three. I was looking forward to soaking in the springs.

Air Panas was built by the Japanese hundreds of years ago and is said to be therapeutic for those suffering from rheumatic disease. A steady rush of water from the mouths of mythical creatures adds to the fascinating environment of the springs.

I enjoyed the resort for a couple of hours and visited the snack bar before leaving for the hotel.

The Aditya Hotel was hosting an event that consisted of a four course meal and a program which included two young girls performing the Balinese dance of Legong. Known as one of the most popular forms of Indonesian entertainment, the dance consists of intense facial expression, body movements, and intricate finger work accompanied by Gamelan music.

The unique music and vibrant performance were entrancing. Although I was exhausted, I felt satisfied that I had accomplished so much physically, religiously and culturally in one day. I reflected back from the start of my journey and could not have been more pleased. I am ready to do it all over again tomorrow!

Have you visited northern Bali in your travels? 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 fun day in northern Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
Banjar Tegeha Buleleng Buleleng
Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia

Banjar Air Panas – Hot Springs
Jalan Banjar, Buleleng,
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Where to Stay:

Aditya Beach Resort
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

Where to Eat:

Banjar Air Panas – Snack Shop
Jalan Banjar, Buleleng,
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Aditya Beach Resort – Restaurant
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

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

A photo of the Dalai Lama that was given to the monastery during his visit

Exploring the beautiful grounds of the monastery

Buddhist Statues

Tigang Sasih: A Cultural Experience in Bali

15 January 202222 September 2024

Visiting a friend while on vacation in Bali, I was invited to a Hindu Nelubulanin Ceremony, a religious gathering that takes place when a child reaches the age of three months. According to Hindu beliefs, a child born to a family is considered a god until their three month ceremony which is one of the most rights of passage celebrations of the Hindu faith.

The Sunarsas picked me up at my hotel and we began our journey towards the northwestern side of the island. After a three hour drive and a stop along the way, we arrived in the residential town of Gilimanuk.

We set out early in the morning so that Wayan and his family could present their daily offering at the Monkey Temple. The traffic was light and the scenic drive included views of the ocean as well as statuesque trees that lined the roadway.

Prior to entering the village of Pemuteran, home to the Monkey Temple, there were several other Balinese sanctuaries situated along the coast. Among some of the most dramatic scenery, these places of worship are essential to the every day customs of the Balinese Hindus.

The cliffs behind the Pura Agung Pulaki temple are where the monkeys reside. According to Balinese legend, these monkeys are believed to be descendants of ancient guardians of the temple that once inhabited the island.

The Balinese believe that the reincarnated monkeys continue to provide protection to this magnificent temple. They are known by locals as the “Wong Samar” or “Gamang”.

The Sunarsa family entered the temple, prayed and left their offerings inside. It was hardly fifteen minutes when they emerged and met me outside where the active monkeys filled the sidewalks.

Returning to the vehicle, we noticed over fifty monkeys invading the walkway and curiously exploring the hood of our car and hopping onto the roof. Candra, Wayan’s wife, explained that these macaques are quite familiar with humans but can be aggressive if provoked. As we slowly walked towards the car, the monkeys began to scatter towards the trees and we continued our drive towards the coast.

Within an hour and a half, we arrived at the home where the Nelubulanin Ceremony would be taking place. On the drive over, Wayan explained the purpose of the celebration and its meaning.

According to the Balinese Hindus, until the day of the child’s three month celebration, the baby is a divine creature and is not permitted to touch the ground with his or her feet. They believe that the child is pure and sacred and must stay clean before the ceremony to connect with Mother Earth.

Family and friends will bring trinkets and blessings to the child to ensure that they are prosperous, healthy and have a joyous life. A priest is also in attendance to perform the ceremony and acts as an intermediary with the gods.

Celebrations are not only a part of the Hindu religion but of the Balinese culture. Large gatherings of family members and friends come together to celebrate, memorialize or mourn their loved ones. It is customary that relatives bring a dish for these celebrations and the food that day was an amazing spread of delicious Balinese foods.

The family of the child prepare themselves for the ritual by participating in a purification ritual. The parents also ready the baby by adorning him or her with jewelry such as earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

Many offerings are presented to the high priest in attendance and he prays over the items that have been prepared for the ceremony.

The Hindu priest facilitates the offerings and various rites of the event. He is seated on a platform among the offerings, water and incense. He is in a continual state of prayer that includes chants in the ancient Sanskrit language.

During this time, the family simultaneously presents their offerings to the priest and praying to the Hindu gods. The contributions are strategically placed within a designated square platform representing goodwill and protection towards the child.

The large number of offerings include earthly items that symbolize the state of the child’s future on earth. For example, leaves with inscriptions represent wisdom and intelligence, coins represent wealth and jewelry symbolizes the need for desire.

Fruit and grains of rice and corn represent the child’s future hard work and diligence. The water containing a goldfish symbolizes the pond of life. The climax of the ceremony is when the family places the child in the center of the small objects and watches as the child selects one of these items which will represent how he will live his life.

The child is carried around the symbolic offerings three times which represent birth, life and death. Once the ceremony is completed, the family gathers around to enjoy each other’s company at a wonderful feast which usually includes the suckling pig (babi buling) as well as a wide variety of other Indonesian foods and fruits. It is a joyous time for the family and their friends and lasts throughout the day.

Male Bali Starling

We stayed long enough to eat and enjoy each others company. Before sunset, we began the drive back to Lovina Beach. Nearing the halfway mark of our journey, the family eagerly suggested a stop at the Bali Barat National Park, a sanctuary for the country’s native bird, the Bali Starling. The reserve was established to protect these beautiful birds from extinction as locals trap them to keep them as pets for good luck.

Turning into the park, the entrance was paved and lampposts lined the driveway. The mangrove forest surrounding us is also home to more monkeys and a protected species of cattle. Not far from the conservation is a popular dive site with a coral reef and a variety of unique, interesting salt water fish.

Female Bali Starling

With over 160 varied species of birds at the Bali Barat National Park, it is the Bali Starling that is the most sought after, and is one of the most endangered species of birds in the world. The Bali Starling Recovery Project was created to reintroduce the bird back into the island of Bali.

From the beautiful drive to Gilimanuk, attending the Nelubulanin Ceremony, and visiting the Bali Starling Recovery Project, I was happy to have spent the day in the lives of my Balinese friends. With the Balinese celebrating a variety of ceremonies over the course of a year, it is unusual that an outsider would be invited to participate in the festivities. I felt honored to have experienced the ceremonial celebration. I learned so many wonderful lessons that day. One, the importance of religion and family in the lives of the Indonesians and secondly, their love of sharing their country and values with those that have a respect for their culture.

Have you attended a ceremonial celebration from another culture? 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 adventures through Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Pulaki Temple
Jalan Seririt-Gilimanuk, Banyupoh, Gerokgak
Kabupaten, Buleleng, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 362 92380

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Daily, open 24 hours
Amenities: Public toilet, Beach, Food and Drink Stalls
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the ocean from here and watching the monkeys is extraordinary!
Length of the Tour: Less than 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Dress appropriately for visiting the temple, covering your shoulders and knees. Watch out for the monkeys on the inside and outside of the temple as they are known to steal car keys, sunglasses, etc. Inside there are plenty of cats, which keep to themselves.

Bali Barat National Park
Kantor Pos Gilimanuk
Cekik, 82253, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 365 61060

Admission Fee: To tour the park, the cost is 10,000 Rupiah (IDR) during the weekday and 15,000 Rupiah (IDR) during the weekend. Because certified guides are required to trek through the park, the costs are varied (i.e., 2 hour trek = 150,000 IDR for 1 – 2 persons and 250,000 IDR for three to five persons).
Hours: Daily, open from dawn to dusk (open for overnight camping)
Amenities: Local Guides, Beach, Hiking, Snorkeling, Diving, Animal Reserve, Birding, Food and Drink Stalls
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the ocean from here and visiting the unique animals is fascinating!
Length of the Tour: Varies, depending on the activities you select
Tips for Your Visit: The best time to visit is from August to December which is the end of the dry season and start of the rainy season. I would also suggest going early in the day to watch the sunrise! The birding excursions are the most popular.

Where to Stay:

Nirwana Water Garden
Lovina Beach Street
Lovina Beach Bali

Nirwana Water Garden is located in the heart of Lovina Beach. It is a 45-minute drive to the dive site of Menjangan Island. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away. The hotel can provide hotel transfers for a fee.

Nirwana Restaurant serves Indonesian specialties, with the option of in-room dining. Guests can enjoy a guided tour to visit the dolphins at Lovina Beach, which can be arranged by the Nirwana’s staff.

Where to Eat:

Warung Ibu Wina
Jalan Mawar , Kalibukbuk, Lovina Beach, Anturan
Buleleng, Bali 81152, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 813 3759 6912

I could not stop thinking about the Makso soup that I had tried on my first day in Bali. The ingredients were light and fresh and the soup was downright delicious. I searched out a warung (a small Indonesian cafe) to find a place where I could find this yummy chicken soup and came across Warung Ibu Wina.

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

Tips for Entering Holy Sites Abroad

22 January 201716 September 2024

While traveling abroad, many of the main historical attractions include holy sites, such as cathedrals, churches, temples and mosques. Within these establishments, visitors may be required to adhere to a list of appropriate dress codes prior to entering. In many cases, the church, cathedral, temple or mosque may provide an appropriate cover-up, but this is not always the case. While items may be available at some sites, there may be a small fee for borrowing a scarf, skirt or head covering, so here is how to be prepared.

Shoulders covered – Tank tops and spaghetti straps should be avoided when entering the holy places. Some of the cathedrals and churches in Europe will provide you a scarf prior to entrance but expect to leave a small token of your appreciation.
Knees Covered – Wearing shorts or short skirts/dresses may prevent you from entering a religious site. Hindu temples may provide you with a sarong-type covering for a small fee before entering or you may be required to purchase one.
Head Covered – Some religious establishments, such as mosques, require that you wear a scarf to cover your hair
Removal of Shoes – Be prepared to remove your shoes or to wear a shoe covering when entering a mosque. The shoe covering will be provided to you and/or you can retrieve your shoes upon exit.
Small token for entering the location – small churches or cathedrals may solicit a small token of money upon entrance, so have some coins available in the event you are asked for an offering.

When traveling to religious and holy sites in other countries, it is important to respect the dress codes and adhere to any rules that are enforced in regards to clothing and customs. This will minimize any embarrassing moments or refusal of entry. You would be extremely saddened to have missed the opportunity to visit these locations due to the dress code as many of the cathedrals, churches and mosques of one’s country are a reflection of that nation’s culture and traditions. Always be prepared and enjoy the experience!

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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.