It's Called Nusa Penida; Just in Case Bali Wasn't Quite Remote Enough

I love to watch travel vloggers on YouTube.  It makes me smile.  One of my favorites is World Wanderista, a young Belgian traveler who favors waterfalls and the locations to find them.  Is it any wonder, those of you who know me, that I'd be drawn to such videos?

I was watching Joelle, the World Wanderista the other day, and discovered something I had no idea of.  In Indonesia, there's an island known as Bali.  That I knew, as did anyone who ever saw "South Pacific."  But,  in Bali you can catch a ferry to a more remote set of islands, one of which is Nusa Penida.  Who knew there was something more remote than Bali close to Bali?  I know there are thousands of islands in Indonesia.  I'm a traveler and I get it.  But, Nusa Penida has luxury hotels, cars to rent, convenient ferry service, tour companies, activities, and villages.  It's not some deserted island.

Nusa Penida has treehouses, wild trails, wonderful beaches, waterfalls, and a giant swing off a cliff.  Quite a place to spend at least a day if you happen to be in the area.  I'm not going to say much about this.  I've included all kinds of material from vlogs, blogs, and YouTube for your consideration.  I just thought it amazing that there was a busy place more remote than Bali available to tourists.

Nusa Penida is popular as a day trip from Bali.  The idea is to catch a ferry to the island, take a tour of the high points, try some local food, and head back to Bali.

The Pura Goa Giri Putri Cave, Peguyangan Waterfall, Seganing Falls, Kelingking T-Rex, and Thousand Island Viewpoint all have rough trails.  Steep trails, cliffs and tons of steps and stairs.  Is the view worth it?  Of course.  But, just in case you're not up for a rough walk, these places may not be for you.

Maybe you'd rather go to the beach?  Diamond Beach and Atuh Beach are two of the most popular beaches on the islands.  There are also activities water related on this island.  You can kayak, snorkel, dive or swim with manta rays.  There are lots of reasons to spend time in the water in this area.

Hotels aren't hard to find, from luxury to hostel.  Hoteliers know their market, and if there's a place to build, they will.  The ferries run back and forth all the time, so it's easy to grab a bag and go to the quiet island for a bit and then head back to Bali, the main remote island.  Restaurants are plentiful, history is in action,  temples are here and there for you to see.  It's a full on tourism experience on an island more remote than Bali.  I love it.

So, there's a surprise that I hadn't heard of with all the amenities you might want or need.  So, there's one more reason to visit Asian Pacific and Indian Ocean islands.  There's one more reason to visit Indonesia.

Do consider taking a tour of this island.  It's easier to get around with a guide to see all the wonders that the tiny island has to offer.  If you wish to stay over, by all means use one of the many options they have available.  Do not try to book a flight to this island.  The ferry is how you get there.  Check the State Department website as always for information before going to a foreign country.  Use the advice they give wisely.

So, if your getaway to Indonesia, with a getaway to Bali in the schedule isn't a getaway enough; check out Nusa Penida and get that true getaway feeling.  The nature is beautiful, the beaches are beautiful, even the treehouses are beautiful.  Pack a bag and run away.  Enjoy!

 https://www.viator.com/Bali-attractions/Penida-Island-Nusa-Penida/d98-a16276?mcid=28353&tsem=true&supci=-987491552&supag=49463267457&supsc=aud-435409373039%3Akwd-391804426776&supai=292832933688&supap=&supdv=c&supnt=g&supti=aud-435409373039%3Akwd-391804426776&suplp=9003419&supli=&m=28353&supag=49463267457&supsc=aud-435409373039%3Akwd-391804426776&supai=292832933688&supap=&supdv=c&supnt=nt%3Ag&suplp=9003419&supli=&supti=aud-435409373039%3Akwd-391804426776&tsem=true&supci=aud-435409373039%3Akwd-391804426776&supap1=&supap2=&gclid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvcmCc7Q_eOe7mb8C4CVAcPOXdRPZArtlfw2m3tKD1XgNHKh6MPyz4KRoCXYsQAvD_BwE

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Products-g2538506-a_contentId.38901395922+714316317-Nusa_Penida_Bali.html

https://www.journeyera.com/things-to-do-nusa-penida/

https://www.saltinourhair.com/bali/things-to-do-nusa-penida/

https://wanderersandwarriors.com/things-to-do-on-nusa-penida/

https://lovehardtraveloften.com/indonesia/things-to-do-nusa-penida/

https://wanderingwheatleys.com/best-things-to-do-in-nusa-penida-indonesia/

https://dailytravelpill.com/top-things-to-do-nusa-penida/

https://www.jonnymelon.com/things-to-do-nusa-penida-bali/

https://digitaltravelcouple.com/best-things-to-do-nusa-penida/

https://www.wisatamurahnusapenida.com/

https://www.airbnb.com/penida-island-indonesia/things-to-do

https://www.thrillophilia.com/destinations/nusa-penida/places-to-visit

https://www.hotels.com/go/indonesia/best-nusa-islands-things-to-do

https://www.getyourguide.com/nusa-penida-l89276/small-group-activities-tc502/

https://liburanbali.net/en/nusa-penida/

https://nusapenida.org/information/nusa-penida/get-around-in-nusa-penida-bali/

https://bali-backpacker.com/transport-to-nusa-penida/

https://www.kimkim.com/l/indonesia-tours?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=adwords&utm_campaign=indonesia&utm_content=indonesia_tours&utm_term=tours%20in%20indonesia&gclid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvcoQypDAYKaeiDtEFuuoX8O_FudfGy41P76T_moyKshESJdbiQqxCbBoCZgEQAvD_BwE

https://www.hotels.com/de1792092-th6/beach-hotels-penida-island-indonesia/?rffrid=sem.hcom.US.google.003.00.09.DT.s.kwrd=c.588007555898.117844717843.12414139809..aud-1388462376382:dsa-1394229698809.9003419...CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvcqiv-Pl6gxv5Jr3CW9SaHgmf9HK0HKDrz1RzR6d63fFtn-gOsjzdEBoCeXQQAvD_BwE.aw.ds&PSRC=&semcid=HCOM-US.UB.GOOGLE.DL-DSA-c-EN.HOTEL&SEMDTL=a112414139809.b1117844717843.g1aud-1388462376382:dsa-1394229698809.l1.e1c.m1CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvcqiv-Pl6gxv5Jr3CW9SaHgmf9HK0HKDrz1RzR6d63fFtn-gOsjzdEBoCeXQQAvD_BwE.r1.c1.j19003419.k1.d1588007555898.h1.i1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&gclid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvcqiv-Pl6gxv5Jr3CW9SaHgmf9HK0HKDrz1RzR6d63fFtn-gOsjzdEBoCeXQQAvD_BwE

https://balicheapesttours.com/nusa-penida-tour.html

https://www.vrbo.com/vacation-rentals/indonesia/bali/nusa-penida/penida-island?semcid=VRBO-US.UB.GOOGLE.DT-c-EN.HOTEL&semdtl=a1=12239508959&b1=116712350825&ktarget=aud-513810068135:kwd-300912377683&ksprof_id=700000002164842&ksdevice=c&k_clickid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvckcPuAq6Tpy8YRBLmnUnVX34T06sTaHSIclftCZnMbsAtNF3gwfA7xoCm8AQAvD_BwE&r1=48d0ca461e138c85608388e4b4599b86a8b648aba2f1d47c209f102d1a425797&c1=&klocf=9003419&kloct=&d1=618203185664&h1=e&ha_t=::&ds_cid=71700000079588265&ds_aid=58700006696410153&ds_kid=43700065177911002&ds_kids=p65177911002&utm_content=&utm_source=&utm_medium=&utm_campaign=&utm_term=&v1=&w1=&gclid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvckcPuAq6Tpy8YRBLmnUnVX34T06sTaHSIclftCZnMbsAtNF3gwfA7xoCm8AQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

https://www.travelocity.com/Penida-Island-Hotels-Hotel-Arsa-Santhi-Nusa-Penida.h21874489.Hotel-Information?semcid=TRAVELOCITY-US.UB.GOOGLE.PT-DSA-c-EN.HOTEL&semdtl=a113542841898.b1124062854056.g1dsa-1321329644599.l1.e1c.m1CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvclnagdVLpSdJeVo-PGVlZc-Mw_ZN-ZPL_uKrEw4e_bTVtKtmbKqxSRoCpT0QAvD_BwE.r1.c1.j19003419.k1.d1528080022691.h1.i1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&gclid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvclnagdVLpSdJeVo-PGVlZc-Mw_ZN-ZPL_uKrEw4e_bTVtKtmbKqxSRoCpT0QAvD_BwE

https://www.booking.com/city/id/nusa-penida.html

https://www.agoda.com/nusa-penida/maps/bali-id.html?cid=1844104

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g2538506-Activities-c57-t95-Nusa_Penida_Bali.html

https://www.travelfish.org/eatandmeet/indonesia/bali/bali/nusa_penida/eat

https://www.kayak.com/flight-routes/United-States-US0/Bali-IDBA

https://www.cheapflights.com/flights-to-bali/

https://www.skyscanner.com/flights-to/dps/cheap-flights-to-bali-denpasar-airport.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLDFLEJe7qA

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/indonesia-travel-advisory.html

Jen Takes us to Sunny Barcelona and Their Architecture!

 

My friend, Jen, has taken us once again to a fabulous, one of a kind spot in the world.  It's also square on my bucket list of visiting Spain.  We're headed to the one of a kind city, Barcelona!

What is it about this city that stands out as like non other in the entire world?  First and foremost is The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia.  If you set foot in Spain, you have to visit it.  Conceived in 1882 and still under construction, city legendary artist and architect Antonio Gaudi was the originator of this amazing work of art and architecture.  

It's a spectacle and one of the most visited churches in the world with 2.8 million visitors a year.  It is the tallest building in Barcelona and will be the tallest church in the world.  It houses 5 naves, four towers, the world famous facades designed by Antonio Gaudi and Josep Maria Subirachs.  It has been under construction for 140 years, is funded entirely by donation and they hope to finish it in 2026; the centenary of Gaudi's death.  Over the years, many architects and artists have been in charge of this project including Domenec Sugranes, Isidre Pui Boada, Lluis Boneti Gari, Francesc de Paula Cardoner Blanch, Jordi Bonet Armengol, and Jordi Fauli Oller.  Work has been done on the facades by Gaudi, Subirachs, and Etsuro Sotoo.  It's quite a crowd, and it's one of the must sees if you're in Barcelona.

If you visit La Sagrada Familia, there will be things you need to know.  Check various websites for information.  As usual, I've listed many.  The hours may vary, always check.  You will most likely want to buy tickets and schedule your visit in advance.  Tickets start at about $28 U.S. and there are various prices for different experiences.  Tours also vary in price.  A couple of things to be aware of are etiquette and dress.  It is a Basilica, declared as such by Pope Benedict XVI.  Be respectful of the patrons and the institution.  Also, be aware of what you wear.  Church in Spain is serious.  Cover yourself up.  Cover shoulders, thighs, chest.  Dress respectfully.  There are guidelines on most websites.

That being said, there are so many reasons why to visit this site.  The beauty, the history, the pure devotion, the art, and so much more. 

 

Now, Barcelona.  Welcome to one of the most unique cities in the world.  Picasso called this place home as well as Gaudi.  It sits on the sunny shores of the Mediterranean and isn't really cold, even in winter.  It's known as Gothic, Bohemian, Modernistic, and Catalan.

What is Catalan?  Well, it's an ongoing conflict in Spain.  Catalonia, of which Barcelona is the capital, is a part of Spain that regularly tries to break away into it's own country.  Gaudi was born in Catalonia in Reus and spent his whole life in the region.  He is the best known Catalonian in history.  Catalonia speaks it's own language, and hands it down through the generations.  They also speak Spanish as it is the national language of the country they currently belong to.  They are a proud people and very proud of their heritage.  So, be aware.  They are different from other regions of Spain.  Be respectful.  They'll appreciate it.

I'm only going to cover certain things about Barcelona specifically.  In general, they have high end fashion and all other kinds of shopping.  They are devout Catholics and celebrate all holy days as such.  Once again, be respectful of that.  The food is delicious and possibly a little spicy, ranging from the world famous variety of Tapas that Spain is famous for to lots of seafood, including Paella.  The beaches are large, warm and public for the most part, so getting a tan is a must while in the area.  There are wonderful museums, parks, and a lot of Olympic sites to see.  Camp Nou is the local sports stadium where you can see a soccer game quite often.  There's Labyrinth Park which is self explanatory.  There are pedestrian areas like La Boqueria and Gracia full of shopping, food and drink.  There's great public transportation by tram, metro, train and bus.  It's a great city to visit.  All the great stuff is there and can be found in the links below.  

All that being said, if you don't go to Barcelona, at least in some fashion to see the land of Gaudi; you're missing the best parts.  Obviously visit The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia.  It is the crowning glory of Gaudi and the one still under construction.  But, also visit Park Guell with castles and fountains and so much more of Gaudi's creations to see.  Visit Casa Batllo with it's skull and crossbone balconies.  Visit La Pedrera or Casa Mila, and Casa Calvet.  Even take a pass by Casa Vicens which is closed at this time.  

When you're done with that, check into Pablo Picasso.  He also lived in Barcelona for years and there's a Picasso Museum.  More works by another revolutionary artist.

You won't see the normal architecture in Barcelona.  It's different.  It's original. It's one of a kind.  It pays homage to Gothic, Modernist, Art Nouveau and more.  You'll never see anything like the creations of Gaudi.  I urge you to take that plunge.  Bypass all the normal looking stuff, take time off of shopping.  Check out what Gaudi made.  Catalonia at its most original.  You should be aware that you aren't really in Spain anymore when you're there.  

I've been around.  I've seen a lot of cities in my time.  If you truly want to see a whole town that just offers something different this is it.  Enjoy the food, but the travelers say to find a place a bit out of the line of fire for tourism.  Enjoy the shopping, but take the time to go to the city markets and meet the locals.  Stroll the Gothic Quarter, but don't miss the parks.  Barcelona is varied and it takes time to enjoy all that it has to offer.  That's why I focused on the architecture.  The rest you'll have to explore.

Spain has so many exotic places to see.  Catalonia is mysterious in a way.  Barcelona is modern, yet traditional.  But, there's only one city like Barcelona, with the legacy of Antonio Gaudi everywhere you look.  It's that one of a kind place in a one of a kind country with a one of a kind history.  So, whether you fly, drive, take a cruise or take the train, come and see the spectacle of Gaudi and enjoy!

https://alittleadrift.com/la-sagrada-familia-photoessay/

https://www.spain.info/en/places-of-interest/sagrada-familia/

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/spain/articles/the-history-of-the-sagrada-familia-in-1-minute/

https://www.getyourguide.com/sagrada-familia-l2699/

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/spain/barcelona/leixample/attractions/la-sagrada-familia/a/poi-sig/374867/1320680

https://www.hotels.com/de1274/hotels-near-sagrada-familia-barcelona-spain/?dateless=true&destinationid=1274&locale=en_US&pos=HCOM_US&siteid=300000001&rffrid=sem.hcom.US.google.003.00.02.LM.s.kwrd=c.618047802947.136093216943.11848102937..aud-1388462376382:kwd-582531879.9003419..sagrada%20familia.CjwKCAiAzp6eBhByEiwA_gGq5EkUwMNNCxCgobYUxG7uvjPuzLJjouy-YXizQOvwTp7hzlBPcp4VWBoCXYwQAvD_BwE.aw.ds&PSRC=&semcid=HCOM-US.UB.GOOGLE.LM-c-EN.HOTEL&SEMDTL=a111848102937.b1136093216943.g1aud-1388462376382:kwd-582531879.l1.e1c.m1CjwKCAiAzp6eBhByEiwA_gGq5EkUwMNNCxCgobYUxG7uvjPuzLJjouy-YXizQOvwTp7hzlBPcp4VWBoCXYwQAvD_BwE.r10df030002750a96c7c77b03263fd51fa551d9133800b06035d8ae64c7e2bd871.c1.j19003419.k1.d1618047802947.h1e.i1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&gclid=CjwKCAiAzp6eBhByEiwA_gGq5EkUwMNNCxCgobYUxG7uvjPuzLJjouy-YXizQOvwTp7hzlBPcp4VWBoCXYwQAvD_BwE

https://www.viator.com/Barcelona-tourism/d562-r6544513931-s110212451?mcid=28353&tsem=true&supci=1053816902&supag=6544513931&supsc=kwd-582531879&supai=292871113903&supap=&supdv=c&supnt=g&supti=kwd-582531879&suplp=9003419&supli=&m=28353&supag=6544513931&supsc=kwd-582531879&supai=292871113903&supap=&supdv=c&supnt=nt%3Ag&suplp=9003419&supli=&supti=kwd-582531879&tsem=true&supci=kwd-582531879&supap1=&supap2=&gclid=CjwKCAiAzp6eBhByEiwA_gGq5B2EicGEzXEkkZ-8Hov2paY-nMTceEupwYsLhG_0DKHi4EIh88TJdhoC8rMQAvD_BwE

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https://www.getyourguide.com/s?cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=6654173973&cq_con=76427540862&cq_term=&cq_med=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_pos=&cq_plt=gp&campaign_id=6654173973&adgroup_id=76427540862&target_id=aud-905885567962%3Adsa-84666501466&loc_physical_ms=9003419&match_type=&ad_id=600148735408&keyword=&ad_position=&feed_item_id=&placement=&device=c&partner_id=CD951&gclid=Cj0KCQiA8aOeBhCWARIsANRFrQGlYzeIFiB6inJPuwlBJSeupaclgRQan-gHUqCrLWZ6U6a5oke5zxQaAui_EALw_wcB&q=Barcelona&et=137483

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https://www.goaheadtours.com/tours/europe-tours/spain-tours/barcelona?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=US_Search_Europe_Spain_EXM&utm_group=Spain_Barcelona_Travel&utm_term=travel%20barcelona&utm_content=514354264265&mt=e&utm_device=c&invsrc=g.1403&gclid=Cj0KCQiA8aOeBhCWARIsANRFrQHEbAlPyQTVuSdmNCAqooBSLEOdXOMfyA4y8d63PkgrirNXtSARBbAaAnFJEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

https://www.tripmasters.com/europe/spain/barcelona/activities?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8aOeBhCWARIsANRFrQFGR20uUTfzIfvHfiZEgPO4rhqXuZnJd2FAC8ElOcv0WooT3nevCC0aAkN8EALw_wcB

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https://www.eurail.com/en/plan-your-trip?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8aOeBhCWARIsANRFrQHYoUuY4_AlG-xArhNjuHWEEfYQsYTm0fWmJjyGbWeFxoAaD3yAaekaAtsjEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

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https://www.tripsavvy.com/barcelona-metro-tips-1644666

One Place That Should Always be Discussed at Christmas...New York City!

 

It's one of the most iconic Christmas shots in the world.  The Christmas display at Rockefeller Center in New York City.  Been there, done that.  Never have any regrets for visiting.  I promise that. 

 

I've seen the Christmas Spectacular with the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.  I've perused the windows of Saks 5th Avenue.  I've lighted a candle at St. Patrick's Cathedral.  It's great.  In other news, I've taken a carriage through Central Park and even played on the giant piano from the movie, "Big" in the old FAO Schwarz.  I love New York City at Christmas.  I love a red and green Empire State Building.  I don't love trying to do anything at Macy's, but I've tried.  

Now, let's discuss something different than the norm that makes a tourist stand out like a sore thumb.  My first thoughts turn to the Winter Village in Bryant Park.  This is a midtown wonder with ice skating, lots of shopping and food.  This is a laid back way to spend a Christmas Season day without going entirely crazy.  It sits butted up against the main branch of the New York City Library, where you can find even more amazing Christmas displays and beautiful architecture.  Another perk of this one is that it's only a two block walk from Grand Central.  I love to take the train into the city and hop over to Bryant Park to get out and have a little festive time that's highly reminiscent of European holiday markets.  

There are many other holiday markets in NYC.  There's one on 6th Avenue between Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center.  There's one in the Financial District not far from 1 WTC.  There's one right in Grand Central.  There's one at Union Square.  There are many.  Visit one.  It's good for the soul.

Now, do you hate crowds and want something a little different?  I've got some trees for you and some other ideas.  Do you like art?

Man have they got a tree  in the Met.  The perk of going to the Metropolitan Museum of Art is that you get the Met experience along with one of the most unusual and beautiful Christmas Trees you'll see anywhere in town.  The entire museum is decorated for the season and is festive from start to finish.

Washington Square also sits in a fun neighborhood that not only includes New York University, but the Ice Cream Museum.  It's beautiful this time of year and the entire neighborhood is lit up for the holidays.

Here's one that most people visiting the city would probably not think of.  The Financial District.  This is a hidden gem all year long, but it's a bright one come holiday season.  The New York Stock Exchange has one of the most beautiful trees in the city!  Not joking.  Trinity Church also leaves the lights on to make the most of all the stained glass windows.  Several, I don't mean one here and there, but several of the buildings are illuminated in red and green flood lights.  Some nights there's live music right on the street.  As I mentioned, there's a Holiday Market not far as well.  It's a beautiful neighborhood to visit and way lower key than the rush at Rockefeller Center.

This year, I do have something new and fascinating to discuss.  This one has been brewing over the last few years, and it flew under a lot of people's radar due to pesky things like pandemics.  New Yorkers have quickly taken to and highlighted Hudson Yards.

20 Hudson Yards is the home of shops and restaurants.  It's a high end mall for sure, but the view is amazing.  If you really want a view, Peak is your food venue.  It has a great view of Hudson Yards and the river.  If you're wondering, Hudson Yards is built not far from the High Line Park along the Hudson River in Midtown Manhattan.  It's called Hudson Yards because it's built directly over a train yard serving the city.  Everything about it is luxury.

The Vessel is the iconic landmark of Hudson Yards.  The walk isn't difficult, no matter what it looks like.  The view is amazing.  Bring a friend.  You can't go into the Vessel alone.  If you really want to know why, there's about a hundred articles on the subject, but I don't want to ruin the Christmas vibe.  It will cost you $10 to get in.  It's worth it.

The lights display at 20 Hudson Yards is amazing.  One of the best parts is that it's inside.  Most of the lights on display are in the mall.  You're welcome.  I know how cold it can feel outside along the Hudson River.  If you like the outdoors, Hudson Yards has fabulous light displays along its walks as well.

Is Christmas only for kids?  Not At Hudson Yards!  Check out Santa's Secret.  This is just for adults.  Welcome to an old fashioned speak easy where you can party with your friends while watching shows designed for the over 21 crowd.  Open Thursday through Sunday during the holiday season with showtimes on the website. Tickets are available online.  This is one of those hidden gems thrown back to a time where lots of things were hidden.

Next to the Vessel is another basically for the adults thing.  Art.  I know my child never wanted to go to an art exhibit, but the Shed sits right next to the Vessel and is a space for exhibiting art.  But, don't think that the art is the only thing to look at.  The building itself is a work of art.  It moves.  I'm not joking.  You can make the building larger or smaller by moving one side of it on tracks.  I'd never seen anything like that.

Then, there's the Edge.  30 Hudson Yards is one of the more interesting buildings in the city.  It's full of offices and expensive residences.  It's also home to two of the most amazing experiences in town, or in the world.  The Edge is the highest open air observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.  Tickets start at $33 and there are a lot of different experiences to choose from when visiting the Edge.  The view is amazing.  If you're scared of heights, probably stick with the mall next door.

Then, there's the creme de la creme of all the experiences you can have at Hudson Yards.  It's called the City Climb.  The top of 30 Hudson Yards looks like someone cut off a piece.  If you look real close, there's steps up part of that wedge.  There's a tiny platform sticking out from the point of that wedge at the top of the building.  For $185 dollars, you can climb those steps in climbing gear and hang off that platform over the city.  That's City Climb, and it's only for the fearless.  It's the highest experience of it's kind in the world.  

So, Hudson Yards is my new gem any time of year, but particularly around Christmas.  There's a lot to do.  There's a lot to see.  There's over 2,000,000 lights.  It's an easy ride on the 7 subway to the last stop.  It's also just off the south end of the High Line elevated park, if you'd like to combine experiences.  The High Line is also beautiful during the holidays.

With that said, New York City never disappoints.  It really never disappoints during the holiday season.  So, for my money, take the time to do something besides the standards and check out some other affairs across Manhattan.  Check out a winter market, some great lights, or a daring climb you'll never forget.  Make memories this holiday season in Manhattan and enjoy!

https://www.edgenyc.com/en

https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/vessel

https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/food-drink

https://www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/listings/2022/christmas-tree

https://vossevents.com/santas-secret/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcGErAa5VJGP0vxCC6ykh_USU2Ji8zqVdlSbUmXbnYJwv-ZMfIHSKRAaAtkEEALw_wcB

https://www.rockefellercenter.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcExcZ5c1chKUu0iiV36jfZsybyFy9Mz3U7ENBol6_66Xcy57NdkC0gaAtEHEALw_wcB

https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/radio-city-music-hall/

https://saintpatrickscathedral.org/

https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/holiday-windows-in-new-york-city

https://loving-newyork.com/holiday-windows-in-new-york/

https://freetoursbyfoot.com/nyc-christmas-window-displays/

https://bryantpark.org/activities/bank-of-america-winter-village-at-bryant-park

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoUQA8Q3SxI

https://www.timeout.com/newyork/shopping/holiday-markets-in-new-york-city

https://loving-newyork.com/christmas-markets-in-nyc/

https://secretnyc.co/definitive-guide-every-holiday-market-nyc/

https://www.getyourguide.com/financial-district-manhattan-l98094/christmas-activities-tc14/

https://www.getyourguide.com/lower-manhattan-l3519/christmas-activities-tc14/?cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=6658528217&cq_con=106096112378&cq_term=&cq_med=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_pos=&cq_plt=gp&campaign_id=6658528217&adgroup_id=106096112378&target_id=aud-905885568202%3Adsa-926633820470&loc_physical_ms=9003419&match_type=&ad_id=640164339593&keyword=&ad_position=&feed_item_id=&placement=&device=c&partner_id=CD951&gclid=Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcFA2As9RXp8lElF7RphQswjS9H0PNmkMF6eOyqJj_EfLc0k0UJ9VvAaAi5vEALw_wcB

https://secretnyc.co/plaza-high-line-turned-colorful-winter-wonderland/

https://newyorkcityadventure.com/carriage-rides/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcGOsGZ3v1mvyv2juyLFA9JU_rVJY1ks7FvCjcSQDL7GHPRBBUJux2waAkHQEALw_wcB

https://www.timeout.com/newyork/things-to-do/best-christmas-things-to-do-in-nyc

https://www.girlwiththepassport.com/christmas-in-nyc/

https://pursuitist.com/the-nyc-2022-christmas-guide/

https://www.grandcentralterminal.com/event/the-2022-holiday-fair/

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https://www.expedia.com/Hotel-Search?SEMDTL=a111798314955.b1119954583532.g1aud-1665158934460%3Akwd-4573816911.l1.e1c.m1Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcEmvI4zI5YzsCf8llov5yM3X3-GeFGfccl4w8HJrIMtew6DxJYOrucaAmaiEALw_wcB.r172fc2e16a95cd2b29dcb3fb921f5599d325b99a492ecc08194d421c24f77217b.c1.j19003419.k1.d1618840629221.h1e.i1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&destination=New%20York%2C%20New%20York%2C%20United%20States%20of%20America&endDate=2023-01-03&gclid=Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcEmvI4zI5YzsCf8llov5yM3X3-GeFGfccl4w8HJrIMtew6DxJYOrucaAmaiEALw_wcB&locale=en_US&regionId=2621&semcid=US.UB.GOOGLE.DT-c-EN.HOTEL&semdtl=a111798314955.b1119954583532.g1aud-1665158934460%3Akwd-4573816911.l1.e1c.m1Cj0KCQiAtICdBhCLARIsALUBFcEmvI4zI5YzsCf8llov5yM3X3-GeFGfccl4w8HJrIMtew6DxJYOrucaAmaiEALw_wcB.r172fc2e16a95cd2b29dcb3fb921f5599d325b99a492ecc08194d421c24f77217b.c1.j19003419.k1.d1618840629221.h1e.i1.n1.o1.p1.q1.s1.t1.x1.f1.u1.v1.w1&siteid=1&sort=RECOMMENDED&startDate=2023-01-02&theme=&useRewards=true&userIntent=

https://newyorksimply.com/where-to-stay-new-york-city/

https://freetoursbyfoot.com/where-to-stay-in-new-york-city/

https://new.mta.info/agency/metro-north-railroad

https://new.mta.info/

Just Putting Some Christmas Sales Out There!

 

I thought I'd run some pretty great stories on sale on Kindle during the holiday season.

In a complicated post Covid era filled with peaceful governments that are manipulated by separatist groups trying to dominate the world, Talia Anderson has a particularly difficult situation.  As the Director of Security for the United Nations, she is responsible for protecting some of the most important people from all over the globe, but her personal life keeps getting in the way.

With her mother hiding at her estate in Connecticut, her father-in-law becoming the President of Russia, and her teenage daughter, Anya missing; she barely has time to deal with the frustrating Cameron Walker who mysteriously appeared in her life from absolutely nowhere. 

In order to rescue her daughter, she must allow Cameron to help her unravel the advanced technology used by the separatists, and work with her father-in-law, Eduard, and her personal security team on the road through Europe to solve a years old puzzle. 

The Alder Nation claimed responsibility for her daughter's abduction, but has not demanded anything since they forced Eduard to run for President.  As the search continues, the location and activities of the group and their leader, Percival unfold.  Talia realizes that she is chasing the ghost of her dead husband across Europe to Lviv, Ukraine in a game that was organized to eventually allow a single separatist group to conquer and rule the world.

Talia must find her daughter and stop the Alder Nation from terrorizing her family any longer with a global chase that ends in a confrontation to stop at least one level of "The Terrorist's Game."

 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FH93JJX  is the link to the book on Kindle!  This is a thrill a minute thriller with multiple U.S. and European destinations.  It has terrorists obviously, a strong female lead, and cast of unique characters.  There's lots of action, some violence, and a collection of one of a kind family issues.  We do leave a little time for romance and enjoying the scenery.

Enjoy this modern classic back on Kindle for free December 10th through 14th!

Sandy is trying to make her way through life the best she can with some of the darkest family secrets, and toughest relationships imaginable.  What happens when she suddenly starts to have a recurring dream?

As Sandy makes her way through life in a truly Forrest Gumpian manner, she finds out many things and learns about the world and how to navigate it.  She finds love, has loss and finds herself in some truly unusual situations during the 1980's and 1990's both outside of and behind the Iron Curtain.

Follow Sandy as she and her unusual friends and family stumble through life with the most amazing outcome.

The one question that Sandy can't answer is the one that she needs an answer for the most.

Is her dream really a Destiny Dream that shows her future, no matter how implausible it seems, or is the dream that everyone talks about really just a stupid dream?

Find out as we follow Sandy on her quest to find the answers from Indiana to Connecticut to Europe and beyond in the action packed adventure:

"The Destiny Dream".

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V6SF62F  Is the link to this book on Kindle!  This is a story that takes place in the 1980's and 1990's as Sandy is trying to find her way through life.  There's plenty of action, travel, characters, mystique, and modern historical events in this Forrest Gumpian life adventure leading a young woman to the future she was meant for.

Enjoy this life experience action adventure drama on Kindle free!  December 15th through 19th!

Edwoena Carrington, of the Las Vegas Carringtons, is a vice cop, thrown into the case of a lifetime when a mysterious man, known as Mark Twain by the prostitutes he hires, begins killing the girls.  Is he a modern day Jack the Ripper?  Where does he come from?

Quickly, Eddie and her ex boyfriend, Homicide Detective Bart Schultz, establish the man's true identity; Mark Swain III of one of the most wealthy families in Maine.  The game begins with her traveling to Maine, where she discovers her mother was born.  She meets relatives while in town to extradite Swain to Las Vegas for questioning, and the secrets continue to unfold.

Greenville, Maine is the quirky town she must learn to navigate.  It's run by timber barons, it's full of moose, and there are Swain family secrets galore.  Eddie eventually discovers, not only is she from local stock, but she's part of the Swain family timber dynasty as she is Mark Swain III's half sister.

Enacting an arrest warrant becomes a labyrinth of interdepartmental red tape  as the murders continue.  Wealth, mileage from the Canadian Border, personal and professional loyalties continually delay what should have been a simple arrest.

As Eddie Carrington deciphers more and more about the crimes and the man who commits them, her world turns upside down, leaving her the lone recipient of their father's estate and the only person who can deal with the now life and death situation created by the timber magnate in the north woods of Maine in a bizarre little town called Greenville.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B9F1XPJV  My most popular book by far!  Eddie is a one of a kind character at odds with everything from her mother to her ex to her environment to the killer she's chasing in the north woods of Maine.  This thrill a minute murder mystery, suspense family trauma style thriller that will keep you turning pages.  Bring along a quirky town in Maine and all the characters who live there, add some plane chases and criminal acts and you have a great time.

Enjoy this bestseller for free for the holidays!  Makes a great gift!  Free on Kindle from December 20th through the 24th!

Hope you enjoy reading any of my books you get your hands on.  If you ever wondered what I do with my memories of all that travel;  I write novels with them!  Enjoy!

https://www.amazon.com/Terri-Dixon/e/B06Y1C2MS7   You can find all of my books on Amazon and Kindle!  Alice is the new girl on the block, but she's $1.99.