Solitude in Pennsylvania

Called the "Keystone" State.

I've visited Pennsylvania a couple of times, but two places are significant to me - New Hope and Mary's Hill.

Located in Bucks County, the Borough of New Hope is a combination of contemporary and romantic atmosphere. This quaint village gives you a chance to enjoy nature and solitude away from the city. The beautiful sunset on the bridge that connects Pennsylvania and New Jersey, a quiet town with small shops and restaurants, and the elegant houses in the neighborhood are impressive sights.  I was here in November 2012, where the Christmas season was in the air. New Hope is one of my favorite places that I would love to revisit. 

The Mary's Hill, located in Kunkleton, is an oasis of solitude, bliss, and sacredness. A trip with friends in September 2012 was a spiritual experience. We prayed and witnessed a miracle in the sky.

 

New Hope



New Hope

Mary's Hill

Mary's Hill

Mary's Hill



 

A peek at The White House

Do you ever wonder what's inside The White House? To tour The White House is on my bucket list. I hope to have an opportunity to see what's inside the walls of this elegant White House. 

Like New York City, Washington DC attracts many visitors worldwide. There are many attractions to see, including memorials, monuments, and museums.

My first visit to D.C. was an official trip in 2000 during my American Embassy days with the U.S. Trade and Development Agency. I accompanied a delegation of Philippine high-ranking government officials to a conference and visited some U.S. government organizations. Of course, being with top government officials was a big responsibility, but this experience has taught me a lot. This was one of the many blessings that I am always grateful for - the career I've had with the U.S. Government with the opportunity to travel for training and conferences. 

When in D.C., my itineraries always include a peek of The White House, The Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and Washington Monument. I've explored the Smithsonian National Museums and some Federal buildings. These are the must-see places when you only have a weekend to stay.

I've visited D.C. when cherry blossoms and dogwoods were gorgeous. Cherry blossom season is one of the best times to visit DC. I've seen the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. If you are a devoted Catholic, you need to include this in your itinerary.

Another memorable trip was in 2014 when I took my daughter, Mary, on her birthday. It was her first trip to D.C., and I thought she enjoyed it. 

Washington DC has played a significant role in my professional career and growth with the U.S. Government. It is indeed one of my favorite places.

The White House

The Capitol 

Washington Monument

Cherry Blossom

Dogwood

The shore of New Jersey

Known as the “Garden State.”

Among New Jersey’s nice attractions are the beaches on Jersey Shore,  Ocean City, and Atlantic City. There are lots of things to do in this laid-back and relaxing state.

To enjoy the sun, sand, water, and breeze during summer. To spend a weekend in the beach house, stroll along the boardwalk or shore and view the beautiful sunset.  Having family time at Six Flag, Great Adventure are some great outdoor things to do in New Jersey. I had a memorable bonding time with my son, Joshua, at Six Flag Great Adventure in 2014.

New Jersey is home to one of the top universities in the US - Princeton University. The architecture is impressive. I visited this University in Winter 2013. It was beautiful.

I have friends and former colleagues who live here. It is closest to my home state, and it is close to my heart. 

 

 

Six Flags Great Adventure

Princeton University

Atlantic City

Ocean City

Jersey Shore

I love New York

My home state. 

Diverse. Busy. Colorful. Alive.

As the state that never sleeps, the action and fun in New York are endless.

Here are some of the many interesting things I love to do in New York. I enjoy summer on the grass of Central Park, which is the nation's first public park. Ride a ferry to see one of the U.S. landmarks - the Statue of Liberty. Visit the United Nations Headquarters and experience to be inside the meeting rooms of the world's leaders.  See the iconic Empire State, day or night. Walk on Brooklyn Bridge. Go to Lower Manhattan to see the Freedom Tower and Wall Street. Watch a Broadway show. Be with the crowd in Times Square on the Thanksgiving parade and New Year's eve to witness the ball. Join the parade and celebrate the National Day of your country. Shop till you drop at any of the posh stores on 5^th Avenue or in China Town if you are looking for cheap buys. Eat burgers, New York pizza, and my favorite Junior's cheesecake.  

New York is a big beautiful state. To enjoy a road trip to see the State's scenic central part, especially during Autumn, is another great thing to do. I love road trips, and I love Autumn here. It is my favorite season in New York.

Tourists from all over the world visit New York all year round, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is crowded yet fun.  I invite you to visit New York to experience the hustle and bustle of this big city.

 I am a  New Yorker, and I love New York! 

Central Park

Statue of Liberty

United Nations

Empire State

Central  New York