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Disclaimer : This is a true story and all characters are non-fictional. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely intentional. This is a tale of how two things, any two things can fall in love... Ill be honest, Chicago wasn't my favorite at the beginning. I visited the city 4/5 times, covering most of its tourist spots like the Adler Planetarium, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, etc. Almost every trip, I complained about the damn wind. But it was last year (on my birthday) when I completely fell for this city. Dating Needless to say everyone loves surprises and I, for one, make a big deal of my birth-day. Anupam surprised me with a weekend getaway to this wonderful city. We had pretty much covered it all as tourists, but this time I wanted a different experience. A executive stay at the Hilton on Michigan ave was a good start. I love the hustle bustle of the city and I could step out of the hotel right into it. We walked around enjoying the people, places, food and weather. No specific agenda, just wandering around enjoying life. Ofcourse Chicago has thousands of exclusive eateries. From the many ones that I have tried, Ramen-San is thus far my favourite. During that time, I was in a "Ramen is the best" phase of life, so this spot was perfect for my birthday dinner. However what I very much loved about this restaurant was the housemade delicious donut balls. My mouth waters every time I even think about them. Go try it! Proposal My second surprise was a 'Vintage shopping experience'. After the surprise photoshoot in NYC in 2017, I didnt think Anupam could come up with anything better. But I stand corrected. A 2 hour shopping spree (booked on airbnb) with my personal shopper Tricia. I shopped till I dropped. You are welcome Pilsen Vintage and Knee Deep Vintage :) This was followed by a much needed scoop of ice cream at La Michoacana Premium Pilsen. As I walked along the streets of this lower east side area I realized it was an entirely different world. Calmer streets and smiling faces. The hard working diverse crowd with a zest for life. It was an instant 'feel good' moment. The city was beginning to feel comfortable and home-like. Happily Ever After I love guided tours. I love learning about places and things. I also love horror, mystery, mafia and history (unintentional rhyme). Next in plan was a ghost tour by Free Tours by Foot. This was by far the best guided tour I have taken in my entire life. It is true. Our guide Andy was one of the most entertaining and knowledgeable humans. Not only did he indulge us in scary horror stories and unimaginable serial killer stories, but the added information on the history of this city blew my mind. How had I missed this. The great fire, valentine day massacre, Iroquois theater fire, the SS eastland disaster, serial killers like H H Holmes & John Wayne Gacy and so much more. Chicago was not just a windy tourist spot anymore. The history of this place is riveting. The more I find out, the more it intrigues me. The city has taken so many hits and still stands strong. This culture trip is my love story with Chicago. Go find your's ...weather you like city life, food, history, museums, music or the Obamas. Go visit this amazing city and fall in love... The End
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This blog is basically about FOOD... Last Christmas, I packed my bag and drove to Gatlinburg with the hubby and friends. Even before we rented a car or booked our hotel, we decided our first stop would be "Cheesecake Factory". What can I say about Cheesecake Factory? It is one of my favorite food joints. It's not only about Linda's fudge cake which happens to be my most favorite, but also about the chicken samosas, crab bites and chicken potstickers. Top that off with a Moscow Mule and you have yourself a well content tummy. (#DontDrinkandDrive) We knew travelling to Smoky Mountains in winter may not be a great idea, but we are from Michigan and the cold doesn't scare us. Antithesis - upon reaching Gatlinburg, we knew this was going to be more of a culinary experience than an adventure trip. Dinner at Blain's Grill and Bar I was in a mood for a vegie pasta. French fries (which are a must) were ordered for the table and I also pecked a few bites of grilled chicken and mashed potato from my hubby's plate. The coleslaw on the side was delicious too. Great ambiance and really friendly staff... Brunch at Crockett's breakfast Camp It is one of the few restaurants that is open on Christmas day. The lines are loooong but totally worth the wait. Everything from ambiance to food to service is great here. Do not miss this if and when you find yourself in Gatlinburg Dinner at Smokey Mountain Brewery It is possible that this may be a good restaurant, but my experience was not that great. The food was ok, drinks were meh and the service was poor. I wish I had something nice to say about this place so here it is - thankfully its open on Christmas Day Brunch at The Pancake Pantry Oh my God...you have to try this restaurant. I didn't know there could be so many pancake options and all of them - delicious. It has the best vegie burger, THE BEST!!! This place is always packed so give yourself about 20-30 mins wait. Overall their food is good and staff is good. Note : They accept cash only! Dinner at Brijmohan After a few 'western' meals, my stomach automatically craves Indian food. #TheHeartWantsWhatItWants. On my way back home I landed at a great referral; this place offers mouthwatering chaat, a variety of fresh sweets/desserts and an array of Indian delicacies. All in all, when you have an extremely satisfied tummy, you know you had a great vacation :) - Anita Bhandare  New York City is always on the bucket list for every traveler. From architectural delights to man made parks, from top notch museums to mouthwatering restaurants, from the popular yellow cabs to the bright lights, this city never disappoints. I have visited many cities in USA and hands down NY is my most favorite. For a first time traveler, NY can be overwhelming, there is so much to see. I made a list of must see places in NY for a first time traveller. Statue of Liberty, the symbol of freedom - Ferry your way to Ellis Island to understand what the statue stands for, understand why it symbolizes freedom, understand how thousands of immigrants were welcomed to this great Nation and what it meant to them to be accepted. The history will bring a tear to your eye. Then hop on the ferry and travel to the statue. Its simply magnificent. If you get a chance to walk up till the crown, its awesome. Financial District - Take a walk through the money district to see NYSE, the charging bull, trinity church, etc. As you head south and reach the waters, you will get a beautiful view of the Brooklyn bridge. One World - You must take a subway to see the newly built WTC subway station. You will feel as though you skipped ahead 20 years. Get a 360 deg breathtaking view of NY city from atop the new world trade center. "Never forget" as you visit the memorials fountains and museum. You will be amazed to see how NY has risen from the dust like a phoenix. Times Square - Why is NY called the city that never sleeps? Go to times square and you will know, It is bright, it is fun, it is lively. Need a break from the many many people around you? Just slide into Madam Tussauds Wax Museum. Empire State Building - Everyone has heard of the Empire State, needs no description. Elevate to the top level and see the top view of this wonderful city. Rockefeller Center - An iconic business center, it is a national historic landmark in the heart of midtown Manhattan. Grand Central - Biggest most gorgeous train station in NY. Central Park - Need to get away from the hustle bustle of the city? Step into this wonderful place with greenery, fountains, sculptures, bike trails, horse cart rides, boat rides. Central Park was planned and how well! New York has so much more to offer, but if you can check off the above places in your first visit, you my friend, will fall in love with this city. Tips : The hop on, hop off tours are quite popular. However, given the traffic in NYC I strongly suggest against it. There are a lot of websites that can help you plan your trip and travelling by subway is an experience in itself. Other options like "Tours by Foot" (guided tours) are also helpful. Hope you guys have a great time in NYC and love it as much as I do. - Anita Bhandare |
