Around The World Embassy Tours

I and my husband finally got to experience this tour event (2015). The fact is that previously, we booked a schedule via Rill's Bus Service, but unfortunately we both got ill after we arrived from our vacation in the Philippines...so, we had to cancel it! :(.

Around the World Embassy Tour happens every first Saturday of May yearly wherein at least 40 participating embassies open their doors to the public showcasing their culture, art, food and exhibits. This is a signature event supported by Passport DC and a part of Cultural Tourism DC project. 

It's a once a year experience to take the chance and visit popular embassy open houses and witness street dance performances and exhibitions in the nation's capital.

The tour includes giving visitors a "Passport DC Souvenir Passport" to be stamped at each embassy they visit. Take note: passports are NOT free and cost $5. each. They can be bought at any available info booths in the area. They are not official passports by the way. I call them "toy passports", - only for the tour, used as remembrance. ;)

The tour starts promptly at 10AM and ends exactly at 4PM. Judging by the time length given, it is impossible to visit ALL participating embassies...perhaps one of the reasons why this event is being held every year to give ample time for visitors to complete their visits.

If you are visiting, an itinerary plan is highly recommended as to where to go first and where to go last due to time constraints. The only challenge in this tour would be waiting in long lines. Some embassies have short lines and nothing at all! Usually smaller embassies are the ones which are easy to access right away.

Brochure maps are available for free which are of good help too!

You can only get around by walking and by metro bus. Buses are readily available in some designated pick up spots which are all printed in the brochure with instructions. If you are very familiar within the DC area, you'll probably don't have any problem where to go and how to go around. Hassle-free!...except for long lines!

Brookside Gardens - A Random Visit!

Brookside Gardens located in Wheaton, Maryland at Glenallan Ave., is worth the visit every spring, because the garden is always rich in colorful blooms from January to December.

In the winter (Dec.-Feb.), there might be a limit of plants to be seen depending on the snow and really below freezing temperatures, but still they have plants that thrive like paperback maple which has interesting bark, hollies and flowers such as snowdrops, lenten roses, witchhazel and winter jasmine. 

But still you can see four regular seasonal displays and exhibits throughout the year inside the conservatories of the garden. ;) You can discover more about the additional garden features when you visit. It's a nice experience discovering them with your own eyes while admiring the floral beauty and nature at the same time.

Spring season is probably one of the busiest season in the garden as it becomes crowded due to the colorful tulips!

It's a common instinct for many that spring is the season for the most colorful blooms in the gardens, where many various florals are at their peak blooms.

Brookside Gardens spans almost 50 acres wide, and was opened as early as 1969 with gardens that surround the conservatories, offices and library. In the later years, many gardens were added along with additional features and wider landscapes complemented by changing displays of interesting and new plants and gardens every change of the season.

I've visited various botanical gardens in various places, and although I find Brookside Gardens a bit smaller in area than others, the entrance is FREE!

Bigger gardens with really super huge acres usually have entrance fees.

There are also guided tours offered to groups who are interested in gardening and horticultural aspects by making an advance reservation by phone. (301-962-1407)

A Good Start For Cozy Winters Reviews

I love to shop both online and in the stores. It's always interesting to know the reason behind why do most women love shopping, and men, not much... Lol! But seriously, when I do shop online, I usually based what I buy on someone's reviews. 

It was good to see Cozy Winters Reviews doing product reviews and I recommend this should be updated with more recent posts because I believe it would help many buying customers in the end. 

 I am sure it would go a long way to help many shopaholics before they would buy certain products such as those included in the reviews. Believe me, I don't mind spending time reading reviews about a product I want to buy because they really are helping me get the entire idea about how a product would work before I buy it. At least I can use my money's worth in the end, right? So, keep it up and keep on updating the reviews. The more recent posts, the better help it can give to the public as well! :)

Bill Gaither Homecoming Tour @ Patriot Center - The Experience!

It was my first time to attend a Bill Gaither Homecoming Tour concert as well as a first timer to visit Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia. I was surprised to know, Patriot Center is more huge than American Music Theater in Lancaster which I usually go to watch inspiration concerts such as the Gaither Vocal Bands :).

Well, obviously, later I got to know and figured out that Patriot Center is an arena, while American Music Theater is merely a theater ;). - just a bigger theater

Being a 10,000-seater arena is something, -so to speak. They host big basketball games, family shows, big concerts and other ceremonies.

And food wise, you'll never get hungry while watching a show too! All sorts of food is around where food stalls surround the arena, quite the opposite when you're in AMT. I only remember buying a drink in a small food stand in the lobby of AMT once, since I was there few months ago. But of course, the shows I watched at both places were spectacular as always! :).

And talking about shows, the Homecoming Concert was so inspiring! I love to meditate through music sometimes and I love hearing Bill Gaither's music because I always end up singing their songs (as long as I know the lyrics, lol!) or just humming with them. I love slow gospel music for meditations, - one way of letting me feel the spirit of God in me.

I also love how Bill Gaither hosted his Homecoming concert in a full evening of entertainment and meaningful music, and his guests with the best-loved voices in gospel music. Of course, with the GVB and other group guests as well!

I am a big fan of GVB too!...can you tell? I was glad I had the experience of watching this concert. I am greatly blessed!

The Historical Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is the most prominent landmark you'll ever see when you're around the metro DC area, because its structures towers over everything considering its height which is at 555 ft. & 5.5 inches.

Some people would always call it the "big pencil" due to its obelisk shape topped with a 3,300 lb. marble capstone, covered by a 9-inch pyramid of cast aluminum which was considered to be a rare metal in the 18th century.

The monument is also one of the most visited landmark in Washington DC, although free tickets are always available for a timed entrance going up inside the monument. Take note though that the free tickets are always limited for a day. It opens daily except Christmas Day.

Visitors who want to access the top pf the monument will have to undergo security screening (just like an airport security screening) before entering. Then you will have to wait for a few minutes for the elevator going up since visitors are controlled to prevent overcrowding on top.

You will be boarding the elevator towards the top for 70 seconds (1 minute, 10 seconds) taking you to the 500-ft. level to see the sweeping views of the nations capital at the observation deck.

One level below the observation deck is a museum full of photos and other historical facts about the monument and about all vital information regarding the life and achievements and contributions of George Washington; - the first president of the USA.

Me inside the museum level of the Washington Monument

When you go down you will again board the elevator and take a slow descent while the elevator guide shares interesting  historical facts as you go past 195 memorial stones while viewing them which are attached on the monuments interior walls.

JHS Pedal & Effects Flash Sale!

Here is a chance for guitar band players or guitarists to get their gears a boosting lift for better sounds. How about considering getting jhs pedals that can help you add more versatility on your guitar tone?

Depending on the type of pedal effects you need, the result is always a sound that gets better. It means you will always achieve tones at a greater boost converting it to a more highly saturated  musical distortion.

Best of all to consider, these items are for sale online now in excellent condition. With more than enough collection to choose from, the better you can find the best one that helps you the most! 

Cruising With "Odyssey" in D.C.

I and my husband had a great experience for a luncheon cruise with sit-down meal on the Odyssey in Washington DC in the early spring of 2015. We enjoyed the signature elegance and the total entertainment experience of a true luxury cruising vessel can provide.

The Odyssey provides a short-cruise designed specifically to travel beneath the historic bridges spanning the Potomac river. Cruisers will be live witnesses as it offers amazing river views of the nation's greatest monuments while enjoying their meal direct from their tables.

The Odyssey cruise recommends dressy-casual attire such as nice pants or shorts and a collared shirt. It is also requested that no casual jeans, Tshirts, athletic shoes or flip flops are worn on the cruise.

Odyssey 111, - the name of the ship has its distinctive fully-enclosed glass equipped with an open-air perimeter deck where cruisers can go out to view the sceneries up close.

Saving Money on Your Ultimate Getaway

When you want to get away and relax, you may look at resorts like Singer Island Marriott and other exotic locations. Before you pack your bags and head to the airport, however, you may wonder how much a getaway will cost you and if you can save any money on your vacation. By checking out the online deals, you can choose a package price that suits your budget. You can also find amenities that will help you relax, have fun, and enjoy your time away from home.

Checking Out the Available Packages

How much you spend will depend greatly on how big of a room or suite you want to book. If, for example, you are traveling alone, you may do well with a room with a single bed and limited amenities. However, if you are traveling with a spouse or friends, you may want two queen or even king size beds in the room, as well as perks like an in-room refrigerator, cable TV, and other amenities. 

You can check out the packages to find out what rooms are available during the time you plan on visiting. You can also select a room that is best suited to what amenities you want and how much you can afford to pay. By doing your research now, you avoid any surprises about availability and in-room perks. You also can relax and look forward to other aspects of your vacation.

Pet Policy, Cancellations, and More

The best laid plans can sometimes go awry, which is why it may serve you to check out cancellation details, pet policies, and more. If, for example, you have booked a dog sitter, but the sitter cancels on you at the last moment, you may want to know if you can bring your pet with you.

You also may want to know how much money you will get back if you have to cancel your own reservations. If you get sick or another unexpected circumstance arises, you may need to cancel and recoup some of the money you have spent. You can get these details by visiting the resort's website.

If it is has been some time since you last took a vacation, you can anticipate your stay by visiting the resort's website. The site has rates, reviews, photos, and more that can stoke your excitement and help you enjoy your getaway.

Tasting Local Sweet Flavor From Edward's Nut & Candy Co.

While doing a tour trip in Lancaster, PA, I was surprised to find a candy company somewhat hidden away from the town.

The Edward's Nut & Candy Co. has the largest selection of candies, chocolates, jams, jellies and all related to sweets in Central Pennsylvania. specifically Lancaster.

It is good to know there is at least an ideal place worth visiting if you're a "sweet tooth". They also offer some candy products that are no longer carried in many modern candy stores nowadays.

Most of their products are repacked into smaller, sealed bags and you can also choose to mix and match a bag candy however you like.

The Astonishing Old San Juan

Most attractions in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico (PR) are within walking distances to each other...the reason why a walking tour is highly recommended. Wearing your most comfortable shoes is also highly suggested mostly because the streets are partly hilly and are paved with cobblestones.

Streets are narrow and can be steep at times particularly when the streets get wet. Cobblestones that are on the streets are actually cobbles of adoquine, - a blue stone cast from furnace slag. These stones were brought by Spanish ships and they got their colorful characterisitc due to time and moisture.

Old San Juan is considered to be a 465-year old community, used to be a military stronghold and ultimately transformed into a commercial and charming, residential district. These are more than 400 16th-17th century Spanish colonial buildings carefully restored in the city of San Juan. Old San Juan brings many tourists each year enjoying fine beaches, casinos and its tropical climate.

If you are visiting Old San Juan by foot, it can also be challenging experiencing the heat, mostly in mid-late afternoons. During spring, summer and fall, walking can sometimes become a bit oppressive due to heat, with crowded, tall buildings blocking the breeze. Good options to do in order to avoid the heat of the tropical sun and humidity would be to start the walk early, as most stores open at 10AM during weekdays, or you can consider catching up trolleys for free that goes back and forth throughout the area, and get the chance to get off at marked stops wherever you desire.

Have a fun-filled visit! ;)

The Historical San Juan - Puerto Rico!

When Christopher Columbus landed in Puerto Rico in 1493, he named the island "San Juan Bautista" in honor of John the Baptist. In 1508, the Spanish government appointed Juan Ponce de Leon as the first governor of the island. He founded Pueblo Viejo, - the original settlement which became Spain's most important military outpost in the Caribbean. The original settlement was relocated a year later to a coastal islet close by the site now presently called Old San Juan.

San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico and considered to be the most populous city in Puerto Rico. It was founded in 1521 by Juan Ponce de Leon who later named it city of Puerto Rico which means "rich port".

Puerto Rico's capital city is known to be the oldest city under U.S. jurisdiction although some agree that St. Augustine, Florida, founded in 1565 in the U.S. continent is the oldest city.

At present, San Juan is known as the walled city and is one of the best and biggest natural harbors in the Caribbean, and also known as the 2nd oldest European-founded city in the Americas. San Juan flag was officially adopted on March 8, 1948. The flag displays the coat of arms symbol of the city in the center of it.

Being known as the walled city, it expanded its walled confines in the 20th century which included Santurce, Condado, Miramar, Rio Piedras and Hato Rey.

The San Juan metropolitan area has also 3 distinct areas; - the Old San Juan, the beach/resort area and other communities like Rio Piedras, Santurce, Hato Rey and Puerta de Tierra. Metropolitan areas of San Juan has large facilities for the production of petroleum, sugar, brewing and distillery, cement, metal products, clothing, pharmaceuticals and tobacco, making San Juan as the largest processing center in the island.

San Juan is as well the country's financial capital where many U.S. banks and corporations hold offices and distributing centers there. 

It is also one of the busiest port in the Caribbean, the center of Caribbean shipping and the 2nd largest sea port in the area.

Tourism wise, there are lots of points of interest worth visiting in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Some highlights to visit are; the Old San Juan, the Forts, Parks, museums, historical buildings and landmarks, and other festivals and events.

As a tourist, it will be up to you to discover when you visit. Every tourist spot has its own rich historical past to tell. So pack your cameras and journals when you're planning to step on San Juan. A day or two of a visit wouldn't be enough! So plan your length of stay as well! :)

Ultimate Protection For DJ Equipments

DJ equipments usually are exposed to harsh environments. Mostly for club owners, they can be at higher risk of getting dust, liquids, smoke and other hazards depending on the settings or where they are set up to. It is just proper to get a decksaver cover DS-PC-VCI400 for your equipment such as that of vestax vci 400, specifically designed for the Vestax VCI-400 DJ controller.

The cover is properly produced for an exact fit on the equipment making it safer and stronger protection for your gear. Check the various designs for more choices.

Best of Barbados Tour (via Royal Caribbean)

Here is a 3.5-hour scenic drive tour that takes you to picturesque views and historical lamdmarks of Barbados' best! It's a splendid beauty hidden in one of the Caribbean's paradise.

One of the visits will be a scenic drive going to the Gun Hill Signal Station which is located at the center of the island of Barbados.

Gun Hill, - a former lookout and military post during WWII offers a wonderful panoramic views of the island! 

You will experience standing on the same exact location where those who protected the island once stood while at the same time discover the historical past through your tour guide as he tells the stories behind. AT the Gun Hill Signal is also a famous lion sculpture made of limestone by Captain Wilkenson in 1868.

Depending on your itinerary, you might also see the residence of the governor-general; - the Ilaro Court; - the Prime Minister's official residence and the statue of Bussa which was constructed in 1986 commemorating the deliverance from slavery.

Some tours don't include the two. Others would include a visit to the seaside UNESCO World Heritage Site, - the Historic Charles Fort.

Another stop is a visit to St. John's Church. The church is located 800 ft. above sea level, with a breath taking look out of the Atlantic Coast and the southernmost tip of Barbados island. The church was built in 1831, and has interior tombs built for prominent islanders at the colonial era site at the side and back of the church. It is also in this church where you can see the burial place of Ferdinando Paleolgus who is a descendant of Emperor Constantine the Great, and whose family was driven away from the throne of Constantinople by the Turks.

You will also be visiting the Flower Forest, - a lovely garden with many tropical colors of various flora as you come up close to them. It offers picturesque, relaxing scene for many visitors with an additional bonus of information as you will discover and learn about the medicinal uses and history of many plants in the garden. 

You will also see the tree called "Pride of Barbados". These are thousands of colorful blooms grown and displayed at Flower Forest within its 6-acre size surrounded by the countryside.

Overlooking from one part of the garden as well is the highest point of Barbados at 1,115 ft. above sea level.

At the end of your garden tour, you'll be offered with a complimentary beverage...relaxing!

Fort de France, Martinique Walking City Tour

Martinique was a French colony in the West Indies. Its capital city was St.Pierre, but in 1902, it was virtually destroyed and more than 30,000 people were killed due to a volcanic eruption by Mt. Pelee.

Fort de France became the city of Martinique which is now the primary entryway on the island.

This one hour, 15 minutes tour is not to be missed when visiting the city of Fort de France. There are several highlights as you visit historical monuments such as the War memorial, the Schoelcher Library, La Savane Park, St. Louis Cathedral, Le Marche' Couvert, Aime' Cesaire Theater, Maison Bougenot, Fort St. Louis, and many more.

If you signed up with a group tour, itineraries would be a bit limited since tour guides usually follow the time length of the tour as exactly as it is.

A walking city tour on your own will probably be a bit longer since you can take time as you wish, but you have to have your guide map with you.

Among the tour highlights with noted historical pasts: (Not in order)

• La Savane Park (Place de la Savane) - This is a 12-acre plaza and park which was built as early as 18th century. It was originally used as a training place by French military stationed at Fort St. Louis.

This photo is not mine (Courtesy of azmartinique.com)

At the southwest corner of the park is the Statue of Belain D'Esnambuc, while at the northwest corner is the Statue of Empress Josephine. Each of the two statue found in the park has its own long story to tell.

Statue of Empress Josephine (headless) and there's a story behind that.

• Fort St. Louis - located east of La Savane Park, just across the Blvd. Chevalier Sainte-Marthe. The fort was built to protect the harbor and its town from enemies. The fort was reopened in July 2014 when it was reinstated as an active military installation.

• St. Louis Cathedral - this church is built of iron with a Gothic architectural style and considered to be the most prominent structure that you see when you are in downtown Fort de France. Because it was constructed of iron, it can withstand earthquakes, hurricanes and fires. It was built in 1895, but in those early days, it was destoyed by natural disasters including other previous churches. This is designed by Henri Picq, prompting him to construct its entire frame with steel, - the reason why the church is now called "The Iron Cathedral". The cathedral has extremely interesting huge pipe organs and Byzantine architectural elements.

• Court of Justice Building - infront of the building is the Statue of Victor Schoelcher, who had an important role in the emancipation of the island's slaves in 1848.

• Schoelcher Library - this building was initially constructed in 1889 serving as a tribute to French abolotionist Victor Schoelcher. As a contemporary of Gustave Eiffel, designed by Henri Picq, the library was dismantled piece by piece and shipped to Martinique, then reassembled in Fort de france along Rue de la Liberte', just across La Savane Park.

• Le Marche Couvert - this is the covered market, also designed by Henri Picq which was originally built in 1901, but it was later restored in 1989. Currently, it's now a busy place to go where you can buy local spices, herbs, fruits, veggies, arts and crafts, all local products of Martinique. There are also restaurants within the market that offer local cuisines.
• Aime' Cesaire Theater - the theater used to be the City Hall of Fort de France where Aime' Cesaire held his office for more than 50 years, - a civil rights leader statesman and a playwright. It was constructed between 1884 and 1901 with a Neoclassical architecture in the Caribbean. At present, it now houses a museum upstairs in honor of Cesaire.

If you are touring on your own, you can also add more landmarks to visit such as the Martiniques Pre-Columbian Museum, Place Jose Marti, etc...

Seaworld Explorer Tour (St. Maarten)

This 2.5-hour tour is the best way to see the aquatic life underwater without actually getting wet! ;) If you're not into scuba diving, this is the best option.

The tour starts with a 30-minute bus ride through the countryside, and the adventure begins upon reaching a quaint, unspoiled fishing village of Grand Case, located on the French side of the island. Grand Case might be partially hidden throughout its countryside, but it is a paradise due to its famous idyllic bay and restaurants. 

You'll then be stepping along the shore with crystalline waters and then board the semi-submersible SeaWorld Explorer,-considered to be a state of the art semi-submarine craft which was developed for use on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Once onboard, you will enjoy a 60-minute narrated tour, - first by looking at the scenic views while cruising through the harbor to the unique geological formations of Creole Rock, as the boat goes closer to it.

Creole Rock

Upon reaching close to the Creole Rock, you will descend into the hull of the boat which is 5 ft. below the water's surface, and comfortably be seated in an air-conditioned comfort while enjoying the last half part of the tour with the help of your tour guide.

In an instant, you will see yourself surrounded by the turquoise waters of the bay of Grand Case as you see the marine life through clear glass windows, observing the coral reefs that surrounds Creole Rock, the underwater gardens and colorful school of fish. If you would be lucky enough, you will also get the chance to see the fascinating green and moray eels!

As you witness and marvel this paradise below the water, a diver will swim by your window while he hand feeds and surrounds himself with clouds of brilliant-colored fish, so you could see them more up close. The diver will be swimming, leading these marine life alongside with him to the viewing chambers (all windows) as he shares the spectacle with you.

Some sea turtles, eels, stingrays and even barracudas can sometimes be around among the reefs, so keep an eye on them, as they can be quick to swim away if they get startled.

This is also a good tour where you can take tons of photos as you wish. If your camera can take excellent photos in an underwater scene, get the chance to sit beside the window! :)

The tour will end up as you go back up the boat deck while returning back to the shore of Grand Case.