MyJourneyin50States

Sunday, January 18, 2015

Cruisin' in Boston, Massachussets

The Bay State.

My first travel to Boston was a birthday getaway in September 2012.

Riding the Old Town Trolley is one of the best ways to enjoy this beautiful city. You can hop on and off the tourist attractions, including the historic Freedom Trail walk, Old North Church, and the Boston Common public park. A guided tour of the USS Constitution (Old Ironsides) which is Boston’s most treasured landmark located in Charlestown Navy Yard gives you a personal experience and history of the world’s oldest commissioned warship.

A tour around the harbor on Boston Historic sightseeing cruise is a relaxing and informative way to enjoy Boston from the water. Don’t miss a visit to Harvard University; It was one of my favorites! The architecture and beauty of the campus are simply amazing. And a peek at MIT (Massachusetts Institute Technology) is another cool thing to do.

I've seen a lot during this visit. It was a great experience and a wonderful birthday trip. I know that there are still many great places to see in Boston, including the famous Cape Cod. So, until my next visit.

Harbor Cruise

Harvard University

Boston Common

USS Constitution

The Freedom Trail

Saturday, January 17, 2015

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

Mary's Hill

Sunday, December 14, 2014

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.