BUCKET LIST TRAVEL

Someday I'll get to India. I love the culture, food, and masala chai.   Photo: Carrot  Halwa and Masala Chai from an Indian cafe in Manhattan, NY. If I had to name one of my favorite beverages, Masala Chai would make it to the top of my list. The blend of different spices infused into black tea with some milk and a pinch of sugar is absolute nirvana. I first discovered Masala Chai at a yoga ashram.  It was served in the dining area. I poured myself a cup of that masala chai and liked it immediately. I made up my mind that I would drink a cup of masala chai at least once a week and to this day I still drink Masala Chai frequently. You can get a masala chai at an Indian cafe or restaurant for as low as one dollar, 89.43 INR a cup and other establishments charge up to five dollars, 446.74 INR for a cup of masala chai. When my boyfriend picked me up at the train station in Ann Arbor (having arrived from Washington DC) we had a four hour and thirty five minute drive ahead of u...

Williamsburg, Virginia is a destination that appeals to just about everyone. History buffs appreciate Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown, city dwellers enjoy the laid back charming atmosphere of Williamsburg,  kids love the European themed Busch Gardens, and college students seek higher education at the second oldest university in the United States known as William and Mary. Williamsburg is situated between the James and York Rivers and stands upon a ridge on the Virginia Peninsula. It's in close proximity of the capital Richmond, not far from Virginia Beach, and Washington DC is about one hundred fifty miles away. A vehicle free way to enjoy Williamsburg is to arrive by Amtrak train. Colonial Williamsburg is just a short few minutes away from the Transportation Center and a complimentary bus transports passengers to various stops in Colonial Williamsburg.  What to do in Williamsburg: Busch Gardens , a European theme park featuring thrilling rides and...

Union Station in Washington DC  is the second busiest train station in the United States. It's the gateway to the nation's capital and within walking distance of famous sights. Personally, I think the Amtrak train is the perfect way to arrive to the nation's capital. Union Station itself is worthy of an hour of exploring with its lovely architecture and an array of unique shops and restaurants.  On my past visits to Washington DC. I walked a lot and took the efficiently run Metro when needed. The Metro system in Washington DC is outstanding. Fares range from $2.25 to $6.75 with peak hours being more expensive. There are also reduced fares on the Metro for those eligible. If you're in Washington DC. for the day, the 1-Day Unlimited Ride is only $13.50.  Last week I left Williamsburg, Virginia in the early morning and had a seven hour layover in Washington DC. Amtrak train 40, heading to Chicago from Miami was running two hours behind. Due to the government shutdown a ...