thelookingglass



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thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Trevi Fountain

(in Italy > Lazio > Roma > Trevi)

Not worth visiting!

A tip I have about this place

I went in the evening, and it was ridiculously crowded with tourists, so much so that I could not see this beautiful fountain, nor could I get close enough to toss a coin in. Plus, a street merchant tried to sell me a stupid battery operated fan, and when I told him no, he swore at me in Italian (I know the swear words!!!). By that time, I did not want to come back to Rome and did not want to throw a coin in. I have revised my memories of Rome, but the Trevi Fountain – well, I don’t need to see it that bad if and when I do go back.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Bocca della Verità

Not worth visiting!

A tip I have about this place

I stood in a really long line that took at least 20 minutes just to chance the fates with the Mouth of Truth. My hand is still in tact. I have a couple of pictures. I lived my Roman Holiday. It is only worth it if you are near the Roman Forum. Do Not make a special trip.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Palazzo Pitti

Worth visiting!

A tip I have about this place

Buy the admission into all parts of the palace. It’s a better value and worth it.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Ponte Vecchio

(in Italy > Toscana > Firenze)

Worth visiting!

If I only had 3000 euro...

Or about $5000, I would buy the perfect opal I saw there. It’s really just for the view and for window shopping, unless you can afford the things that glitter there (and I ain’t talking about the Arno in the sunlight)...


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Piazzale Michelangelo

(in Italy > Toscana > Firenze)

Worth visiting!

It's All For the View

Florence is magical all around, but the view from here is spectacular. Though, I also recommend the top of the gardens at Palazzo Pitti. You also get skyline, though you have to pay to get in the palace.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

The Mall

Worth visiting!

A tip I have about this place

Springtime is the best time to go. Walk the mall in the daytime for pictures and at night for the lights. I’ve done both, and they are both worthwhile experiences.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Egypt

(in Africa)
Why I want to go to this place

I have always dreamt of going to Egypt and exploring the seat of some of the most ancient history on this planet. It appeals to the adventurer in me. And maybe Raiders of the Lost Ark contributed to that a bit, but still. I find the history of ancient Egypt fascinating. They were an advanced culture thousands of years ago that was somehow destroyed or wiped out. I just fancy going there would be like looking through a portal of time. I know it’s going to be really hot, and it’s not exactly the friendliest place in the world, but I have to see it someday!!! Someday.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

Art Institute of Chicago

Worth visiting!

Good Art Museum

As art museums go, it’s very decent and conveniently just south of the Magnificent Mile. I went to the Institute for an impressionist exhibit including Monet, so I enjoyed it. I didn’t see much of the regular museum, though.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

World Of Coca Cola

Worth visiting!

A tip I have about this place

As an avid Coke drinker (I’m so addicted), this was a great place to visit while I was down in Atlanta for work. The absolute best part is the tasting room, where you can sample different varieties of Coke from around the globe, but avoid a particularly nasty one, I think it was from Italy. You can also gulp down large quantities of Classic and Cherry, if you’re a traditionalist.


thelookingglass
Grand Rapids

University Of Michigan

Worth visiting!

My Alma Mater...

...and one of the greatest places on Earth. I. Loved. It. The only two places I have lived in and would stay living in in Michigan are Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor.

U of M is one of the most eclectic campuses you’ll find. It’s got a mix of old and modern. There are tons of people, literally of all types, shapes, and sizes. There’s a lot to do. There is lots of activity.

And, of course, if you’re a college football fan, you can’t go to the campus without setting foot inside Michigan Stadium, the largest college football stadium (and perhaps one of the largest sports arenas in general) in the country.

I can answer any and all questions about U of M, from the tourist, to the townie, to the would-be student. Go Blue!