The Arch in Saint Louis, Missouri

     My trip to Saint Louis in June was a unique experience. It was funny at the same time, a creepy anecdote.

     Saint Louis is known for its Gateway Arch. It is 630 ft. tall and the tallest man-made monument in the US. Unfortunately, it was under construction when I visited. Hence, I didn't experience the journey to the top. Nevertheless, I had a glance at this monument and was able to photograph with different angles and distances. It's amazing architecture you would want to see as well. 

     I meet friendly people on my travels. While eating lunch at an Italian restaurant, I chatted with this lovely couple from Saint Louis, and they offered to give me a ride to downtown. We first headed to the Gateway Arch then later went to the wine and concert festival. They were nice, so I needed to compensate for their hospitality. I bought them drinks and snacks at a fancy bar.

     I decided to save a little money on this trip and thought of staying at a hostel. This unforgettable experience was with Huckleberry Finn Youth Hostel and this was my story. . .  

     The owner was nice, the place was clean, but for me, it was creepy. The building looks haunted (I am sorry to say this.) My aborted stay could have been different if there were other guests in the room. But nobody was booked that night in the women's quarter. The physical appearance of the house was very uncomfortable. I didn't want to wake up in the middle of the night seeing other creatures around me or in front of the mirror. More so, I didn't want to stay awake the whole night if I had decided to stay there overnight. After having these scary thoughts, I decided to leave and book another hotel. When I was about to do that, my former boss, Rick, who lives in a nearby town in Chicago, found out that I was there and wanted to see me. He offered me to stay in their house that night, picked me up, and paid my hostel bill. He even drove me to the airport the following day. Was our meet-up a coincidence? I think it was a blessing!

     Saint Louis is another quaint city. There are lots of brick old buildings similar to New Orleans. But Saint Louis has its own character. I love visiting churches and taking photos, and I took pictures of the grotesque St. Peter and Paul Church. 

     Even though I had a creepy experience, I wouldn't mind coming back to Saint Louis. I will make sure to go up to the Gateway Arch and see it beautifully lighted at night.

Huckleberry Finn Youth Hostel