MyJourneyin50States

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Cruises & Theme Parks in California

“The Golden State”

California is one of the first States I’ve visited. Because of the great weather, which is somewhat like the Philippines, Filipinos love to visit or live here.

My earlier trips to California included a trip with my kids when they were young. A visit to Disneyland, San Francisco, and Harbor Cruise experience were the highlights of our trip. Those are wonderful memories.

I’ve also explored Los Angeles, including Rodeo Drive and Hollywood, and the San Jose area, including Silicon Valley. I’ve seen beautiful views on a road trip from LA to San Jose.

My recent visit was with my kids in San Diego. It was my daughter’s wish to see San Diego. I am glad she convinced me, as we had a great trip. I was surprised at how beautiful it is there. The harbor and trolley tours took us to nice places, including Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island, which are my two favorites.

California's motto is "Eureka," meaning I have found it. There you go . . . I've found my name on the street of Little Italy in San Diego. Was it a coincidence? Maybe.

California is big and has many beautiful places to explore. My imminent list to visit includes Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, and Venice Beach, to name a few.

I have few friends who live here, too. So I say, "I shall return."

San Diego Harbor

My attempt to dive

Old Town San Diego

Eureka! found my name in Little Italy, San Diego

Hollywood

Sun and Fun in Florida

Do you love some fun in the sun?

I know many people who love Florida, including me. The weather and many outdoor activities are two reasons why it is a great destination for vacation or a place to live.

I've visited Florida on many occasions. The first time is always memorable. Years ago, we visited Disneyworld with my best friend from the Philippines, Marichu, and her family. It was a long nice road trip from Maryland.

The second visit was my birthday trip in September 2014. To satisfy my curiosity for Miami Beach, I wanted to see how beautiful it is. The sandy beach is obviously a great place to unwind.

Another memorable trip was with my kids, Joshua and Mary, on our Christmas getaway. Universal Studios was our main destination. We love the Harry Potter studio. No matter how many times you have visited this place, it would always be fun.

I recently visited a good friend, Aubrey, in her house in Tampa. We had a great time. The sunset was gorgeous!

I would always go back to Florida, visit friends, explore another coastline, and who knows, I may eventually live here. Why? Because of the weather and beaches.

Miami

Universal Studio, Orlando

Orlando

Clearwater, Tampa

Disneyworld, Orlando

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Memories of Minnesota

“The land of 10,000 lakes.”

Minnesota is another state close to my heart. It was in Minneapolis in May 2014 where I had my Flight Attendant training and earned my wings.

The month-long stay in Minneapolis was filled with great memories. I had gained knowledge and skills in aviation, wonderful experiences, as well as new friends.

My visit to St. Paul Minneapolis church was a significant part of my training. My faith helped beat the challenge. This journey was not all hard work after all. I had so much fun with my classmates during group studies and some night outs.

Mall of America, which is the biggest mall in America, became our second home. When you are traveling to Minneapolis with kids, visiting this mall is recommended.

A month of hard work, fun, and ultimately success are the reasons why I love Minnesota! This experience has absolutely changed my life.

I haven’t seen much of Minnesota, but my flight attendant memories are vivid, documented, and would last a lifetime.

One day I would like to explore more of this state. Maybe I can paddle a boat in one of their 10,000 lakes.

St. Paul Minneapolis Church

Inflight training

Downtown Minneapolis

Dinner with John & Ryan

I fell in love with Virginia

     Years ago, when I first visited Virginia as a tourist, I had thought that in case I decided to immigrate to the US, I would like to live in Virginia. It’s a beautiful state, and I fell in love with it.

     I have traveled to Virginia a couple of times in the past. My previous travels included a trip with my best friend, an official trip with my former office - US Trade & Development Agency, and another trip with an embassy friend. The recent trip and one of my favorites were when I traveled for the Endeavor Air Flight Attendant interview. It was indeed a successful trip!

     Virginia is one of my favorite states. I have great memories here, and it's close to my heart. I've seen some beautiful places in Virginia, but I would like to revisit and explore more.

Crowne Plaza National Airport Hotel

Arlington National Cemetery

Luray Wooden Bridge

Singing Tower

Pentagon

Monday, January 19, 2015

Oprah Show in Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City.

I am a big Oprah fan, and watching her show was the highlight of my trip. From waiting outside the studio to watching her on the show, browsing and buying stuff at the Oprah Store were exciting and unique experiences.

It was spring in 2008 when I first visited Chicago, and the flowers were beautiful. I felt the wind from Lake Michigan, but it wasn’t as bad as the winter.

I did enjoy the art and architecture at Millennium Park, located at the heart of the city. The famous cloud gate sculpture is known as “The Bean" is amazing artwork. It is a 12-ft high mirror-like surface that reflects from a variety of perspectives. The spouting faces and crown fountains are just a few of the entertaining art displays.

I’ve had a panoramic view of the city in the sky deck of Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower.) This 108-story building is now the second tallest building in the US.

Indeed, my first trip to Chicago was one of my favorite and memorable ones.

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