Yesterday I returned to Philly from New Orleans, arriving long after the sun had set and far after I would have preferred to be in bed. My head was bobbing for most of the second flight out of Atlanta - I don't really even remember the drink cart coming through.
Rhapsody of the Seas, Royal Caribbean
The stories will begin to filter out this week, however I must admit that getting back into gear after a memorable weekend is never easy - I think that concept is universal, even for travel writers. I'm good about having fun anywhere and everywhere I go, but there's a big difference between covering a destination and eating one up, letting it under your skin.
The people you travel with certainly play a large part in determining which way the trip goes, and this morning when I woke up with a stomach that was still full and calves sore to the touch, I knew we had taken the Big Easy head on (cheers guys).
In addition to New Orleans coverage, I will also be finishing up a couple stories from the past few weeks:GoNOMADand Famtripperfeatures onDetroit,Denver, andNassauare in my queue.
These short breaks in my schedule are typically the hardest part of my job - the lull between two high points - yet the timing on this one is perfect given the packed schedule of late.
With New Orleans in the rear-view mirror and Alaska in the windshield, consider the curtains closed until Thursday morning.
When I woke up and saw the dusting of snow on the ground (Philly area), I brewed a hot cup of coffee and began looking over my plans for the next two months - specifically my two-week trip to St. Maarten/St. Martin in the middle of February.
I might have mentioned that I just relocated back east from California, and all my friends think it's funny to send me the weather report from Santa Barbara: 70s and sunny today.
That's all right - no seasonal depression here, however I do require a touch of warmth in my life - and I'll have details of my island plans for you in the beginning of February.
It's a long way off, but I confirmed the other day that I will be headed south in April to check out the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort on St. Simons. More info to come on that - I believe I will wrap it in a trip to check out Savannah as well.
Last Friday, after a walk under the sunset and the pink sky at Penn's Landing, we gathered at the Moshulu bar to warm up. It's a really comfortable spot, complete with a grand piano and open floor for dancing (although the piano was not being played while we were there).
The dining room provides nice views of either the water or the city, depending on which side you are seated (the port and starboard dining areas are mirror images of each other). It's definitely an upscale environment: White tableclothes, prompt/friendly service, and impressive menu items in both taste and diversity (entrees average about $30 each).
We shared Kobe Beef Sliders for an appetizer after the waiter recommended them. For dinner, my friend had the scallops and I ordered the trout stuffed with braised short rib. All the food was delicious - the trout/rib combo truly unique. When I saw it on the menu, I couldn't help but be curious.
After dinner we wandered the ship - too bad it's winter time. It seems like an incredible summer spot when the top deck opens up and you can dine outside, or have cocktails at the bar and take in views of the city and bridges.
I apologize: I failed on the photo portion of this experience (the lighting inside was tough and most of mine did not come out well), but here are a few to give you an idea.
We were treated to quite a display this weekend when we walked along the Delaware River at Penn's Landing. The sun was setting and the clouds broke up the light, creating beautiful colors and contrasts.
The photos tell the story of this relaxing walk, all courtesy of freelance photographer Andrea Ramsdell:
The Mummers Parade takes place every New Year's Day in Philadelphia, a fantastic way to get out of the house the morning after and extend the holiday season celebration one final day. "Local clubs" participate with bright costumes, instruments, and brillant flair, stopping every few blocks to perform and impress the gathered crowds.
I found it a really great way to start the New Year - a very diverse and festive experience. Many people take to the streets for hours, visiting the vendors and walking the closed off streets of the city. Others gather at City Hall where the judging takes place, raising their voices for their favorite club.
Here's a video and some still shots of the parade (photos by Will McGough and Andrea Ramsdell):
The Louvre The Louvre is the world's most visited museum, averaging 15,000 visitors per day. WIth over 380,00 art objects and 35,000 works of art in eight curatorial dept's, it is wise to break the visit down into small chunks. Check the website first and carefully plan your artistic journey!