Saturday, October 14, 2006

Kew Gardens

London Kew Gardens

A trip to London will never be complete without a visit to the city’s famous Kew Gardens. It has been a long while since our last visit a few years ago. Here at Kew Gardens one can be assured of something spectacular at any season of the year. Our visit was on a fine October day. The last of the roses were still in bloom. The leaves on most trees were still bright green although on some there was a hint of yellow and gold. Early spring will be for the crocuses and the snow drops. Spring will find a brilliant display of different varieties of daffodils. Roses, rhododendrons and other flowers during summer, autumn for the change in colours of the leaves and winter is a time when most plants and trees hibernate away the cold months. It is safe to say that Kew Gardens is worth a visit at all times of the year.

On the day of our visit there was the promotion for cranberry, highlight on pumpkins and a display of more than 200 varieties of apples.

The Princess of Wales Conservatory is worth a visit. Here you will find a fine display of plants from regions in the tropics to the desert. The plants are well displayed with brief descriptions for each.

The rock gardens are well presented with rockery plants some of them still in flower.

Attached are some photographs of the day. Enjoy.









Thursday, October 05, 2006

Chicago

Chicago aka The Windy City

Three days in Chicago was definitely insufficient to do all the things and see all the interesting places in this city. It is a very vibrant city with many interesting sights. We spent our three days walking the streets of Chicago. It took us a whole day to walk the Magnificent Mile. This is the Chicago version of Oxford Street of London. Here are all the major stores where one can purchase all designers goods. A walk along this stretch is a must when visiting Chicago. The restaurants scattered in this area are also quite good.

Another place to visit in the city is the Navy Pier. From here one could take mini cruises or boat rides to see the famous Chicago skyline. On the day of our visit to this pier, it was the end of September and the weather was a little chilly. The activities on the pier were limited. On a good summer day, I am sure it would be a livelier place.

The Millennium Park of Chicago is situated in the heart of the city. This is a nice place to spend a pleasant afternoon. The open-air concert stadium within the park holds regular musical events.

A three day visit is insufficient to enjoy the whole of Chicago. It is definitely worth a second visit.