Memorial Day Weekend at Boston

We seem to be on a historical site seeing spree after our last trip to “Colonial Williamsburg” we were off to Boston for the memorial day weekend.

First Stop “Harvard Square”

Bustling with activity and situated outside America oldest, and arguably most famous university, after which it is named, this little spot is bustling with activity. Choc a block with places to eat and shopping, the vibe is very upbeat and youthful.

We chose to go for the HAHVAHD tour, run by current students of Harvard. Our tour guide Alley did a great job of introducing us to the history of the university, some quirky traditions and even shared tidbits about how the university currently functions. Highly recommend this to visitors to Harvard. 

Next a quick visit to the MIT campus, here the buildings all look slick and modern in stark contrast to the historical architecture that the Harvardians are so proud of.

That evening it was time for the husband to catch up with an old buddy from college and for Ria and me to make some new friends.

Day 2

We started Day 2 with a self-guided tour of The FreedomTrail. Marked by a red line (which we only discovered about half way into the tour) we visited all the historical spots, many of which had been meeting points for the patriots as they discussed the revolution. Also prominently featured on the trail were several burial grounds where many famous (and not so famous) Bostonians were buried.

Foodie me was excited to stop at the Quincy market adjacent to Faneuil Hall, where the biggest problem was choosing between all the tempting options for lunch. I finally settled on clam chowder and the husband wolfed down a lobster roll (which was banned to me coz of my shrimp allergy)

The second half of the day was at the Boston Duck Tour 

These tours are conducted on W.W.II style amphibious landing vehicle, which chugs along on both water and land. Our very entertaining guide had us in splits through the tour and the little one got a chance to navigate the boat-bus as we were sailing along the Charles river. 

Day 3

We ended out historic tour with a visit to the Boston TeaParty Museum. What a delightful experience this was, I even got a talking part! From disguises, to throwing tea overboard and a mock meeting in historically accurate weather, (it was a rainy day) this was such a fun time. Talking pictures, holograms that disappeared in a poof and to end it all what better than a cup of tea!

Before heading back, we dropped into James Hook & Co for a bite. The husband feasted on a giant lobster while I made do with a crab roll.

Time to head back to NJ but not before paying a 42$ parking fee, as much as we had been warned of the outrageous charges for parking in Boston this was quite the shocker! 

Spring Break 2016

A short road trip planned to coincide with Ria’s spring break.

Day 1

First Stop Shenandoah Caverns

Unassuming from the outside but large and labyrinthine on the inside, these caverns are located in the state of Virginia. They bear a close resemblance to our earlier visit of Ruby falls in Chattanooga. Natural formations in the cave bear uncanny resemblance to the weird and wacky, ranging from elephants to the biggest bits of bacon you can ever imagine. Drops of water often trickle down from the cave ceiling and are nicknamed cave kisses. Sachin got a lot of lovely pictures, each formation is uniquely lit to add to the visual experience of the tour.

Outside the cavers are a couple of other attractions too.

The “American Celebration on Parade”, has massive parade floats on display. 

The “Yellow Barn” has a display of a collection of antique farm equipment and carriages. 

After the cavern visit we headed to Cave Ridge Vineyard, a drive off the highway into a narrow road and picturesque setting. Here there was of course the wine tasting, followed by the most delicious baguette with cheese and wine. A quaint little spot which made for a memorable stop.

Day 2

Colonial Williamsburg

Called a living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg has been recreated from the 1700’s during the times when America was still a British colony and the movement for independence was brewing. Many original structures have been restored and many others rebuilt on original foundations. What a pleasure it was to stroll along these streets where there were functioning silversmiths, cobblers, weavers along with taverns, courts and the capital building. Each structure has guides explaining how things worked in the 18^th century giving us a wonderful historical perspective. Truly the highlight of the holiday for me. I cannot recommend a visit here enough!

Day 3

Aquarium at Virginia Beach

                                              My favorite was the Komodo Dragon!

Virginia Beach

A popular summer destination, we landed here on a bright, sunny but windy day. Temperatures were fairly good and visitors were clad in their beast beach wear and while it was too cold to head into the water it was still fun to be out and about after mostly staying indoors for the winter.

Ocean City, MD

Shops, tourist attractions and hotels jostle for place in this popular tourist destination. While Summers find the beach overflowing with people, the off season was eerily deserted with just a handful of tourists on the boardwalk and almost all of the restaurants closed. We bravely headed over toward the beach and the little one took great persuasion to agree to leave as she was enjoying herself, playing in the sand, collecting shells and building castles. 

Day 4

Bye-Bye To Ocean City and end of the Holiday

The Ocean City boardwalk stretches over 2.5 miles and a fun way to see it all is on the family cycle (surrey) where Sachin and I peddled while Ria sat back and enjoyed the ride.