The Chicago Water Tower

806 North Michigan Ave, Chicago - See a ghost and then do some shopping on one of the best streets in the world to shop! Historically the Water Tower is the only building to survive the Chicago Fire, it is said to be haunted by a man who chose to hang himself rather than be consumed by the flames. Many tourists have reported seeing a man hanging in the Tower's top window. When you visit the Tower today, make sure you take the tour it very interesting and you really get a feel for the building.

Bachelor's Grove Cemetery

143rd Street, Midlothian - Although, this haunted place is not truly located in Chicago; it was a popular and unofficial burial site of many Chicago gangsters in the 1920's and 1930's. Rumors also include satanic cults using this cemetery for rituals and animal sacrifices in the 1970's. Due to the various happening at this cemetery, it is considered one of Chicago's most haunted places. Multiple white lights have been seen floating over this area at night. Due to its location, however, this writer does not recommend visiting this place at night. For more information on Bachelor's Grove and its history visit Bachelors Grove.

Resurrection Mary

Resurrection Cemetery 7200 South Archer Ave, Justice - Resurrection Mary is the most famous ghost in the Chicago area and the most seen. Many Chicagoans, including this author, has seen a girl fitting Mary's description walking along the cemetery road.

According to legend, Mary had gone to a dance, where she decided to leave early without her date. Since she lived in the area, Mary chose to walk home. While she was walking, Mary was hit by a car and left to die on the side of the road. Soon after her burial people began to see a young woman walking along Archer Avenue and hitching rides, when a Good Samaritan driver would pick up this young woman, she would request that they stop in front of the cemetery where she would promptly disappear.

Though ghost hunting is not for everyone the next time you are in the area you may want to stop by and pay your respects to some of the city's most famous hunted places. Who knows you may even see a ghost for yourself!

A great place to take the kids, especially in the spring and summer months. As it sits along lake Michigan, there's a Ferris wheel outside along with indoor shopping and food. Parking is quite expensive, be prepared to pay anywhere from $20 to $30. This is true for most of downtown, Chicago. During the weekday it is impossible to find inexpensive parking.

Millennium Park

A recent addition to Chicago, Millennium Park sits on Michigan Avenue. In the winter months there's an ice rink. During the hot summer months, bring a spare change of clothes for the kids, there's a fountain they'd love to get wet under. Underground parking is available.

Michigan Avenue

A trip to Chicago would not be complete without seeing the Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue. Shop the stores, visit the Art Museum, and ride the trolley.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Be sure to bring the kids to Lincoln Park Zoo. Admission is always free. Grab a bite to eat at the zoo or be sure to take your own picnic lunch.

Wrigley Field

On the Northside of Chicago sits Wrigley Field, home of the Cubs. Many films have used the outside of the stadium and you will likely recognize the bright red sign. Tickets are difficult to come by, even for die-hard fans that live in Chicago. If you do manage to find tickets (stubhub, ticketmaster) don't leave before the 7th inning stretch as someone (sometimes famous) will sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.” You will also notice that residents surrounding the stadium will be on their roofs, with stadium seating watching the game from home!

The Museum of Science and Industry

Chicago hosts many museums located along Lake Michigan. Most are near Solider Field (home of the Chicago Bears). The Museum of Science and Industry however is located near the southside, right off I-55. They typically have temporary exhibits worth noting when you visit. They've hosted both CSI and Star Wars.

Those Who Cook Together Stay Together

Cook up the perfect meal at The Wooden Spoon (5047 N. Clark; 773-293-3190). Try their special couples cooking class where you'll prepare the meal together and share the romantic meal afterwards. Talk about some real bonding time. On the menu is Clams Casino, Osso Bucco with Red Wine Cabbage and Oven-Roasted Root Vegetables and Mango Soufflé with Tropical Fruit Coulis. You'll score huge points for this one (hint, hint guys).

Wine Me, Dine Me

If you're really looking to impress, take that special person to The Signature Room (875 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-878-9596). Located on the 95th floor of the Hancock Building, you'll let them know that they are as special as their surroundings. Say “I love you” Italian style at Via Due Enoteca (1417 W. Fullerton Ave; 773-348-9463). Enjoy their fabulous wine bar and share some spaghetti and you'll both be screaming “Mama Mia.” Café Iberico (739 N. Lasalle Dr; 312-573-1510) will please your palate. Most of their dishes are small and meant to share. Feed your dearest dishes like Champinones A La Plancha; Grilled mushrooms with garlic and olive oil and Calamares A La Plancha; Grilled squid with olive oil, garlic and lemon juice and you'll be closer than ever.

Sky Write Your Love

The Schaumburg Airport, just a short drive from the city offers scenic tours of Chicago. This one will really surprise them. It's a little pricey ($262 per couple) but it will be worth every penny when you see the look on their face when they find out they will be taking a helicopter tour of Chicago. You'll see the Loop in a way you've never seen it before (905 W. Irving Park Rd, Schaumburg; 877-474-3127).

Ride Old Fashioned Style

Chicago is a beautiful city. What better way to see it than by taking a horse and carriage ride with your loved one. JC Cutter's (1-888-664-6014) offers 30 minute, 45 minute and one hour tours. Prices range from $40-$100. It doesn't matter how long you've been with your significant other; it'll be perfect as you stroll through the city in a classy carriage and visit the best highlights of downtown Chicago such as Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park and fabulous lakefront views. This could be a great way to propose and something you'll never forget.

Escape on a Tropical Getaway

Stop by the trendy Lincoln Park Massage Spa (630 W Webster; 773-296-6300) and have a sweet massage with your sweetie. Upon entering you'll be pampered with a warming herbal neck wrap, flavored tea of your choice and a warming towel to refresh your hands. You may not have the time to take a tropical vacation but you'll sure feel like your on one when you step into one of their themed rooms and feel like your laying on the beach in the Caribbean as you hear the tranquil sound of waves softly crashing. Choose from massages like Swedish, deep tissue, sports, Thai and hot stone therapy. You'll both be oohing and aahing after this splendid treat.

Call it a Night

Early to Bed (5232 N. Sheridan Rd; 773-271-1219) offers everything you can think of that will make you and your darling want to hit the hay as soon as possible. Here you will find great treasures that will make your evening extra special. From fun toys to sweet smelling massage oils, you'll be sure to score. As a bonus, this classy shop offers workshops on how-to be a better flirter and teaches couples tickling techniques.

Sparkle and Shimmer

Everyone knows that the ladies love jewelry. Francesca's (2012 N. Halsted Ave; 773- 244-4075) offers reasonably priced twinkling jewelry that's sure to please. Choose from cute earrings, bracelets and necklaces. They also have a great line of clothing and accessories to match. You can't go wrong with this perky boutique. Arts and Artisans (321 N. Michigan Ave; 312-855-9220) is an elegant shop to find the perfect gift for him or her. For her, you might choose their Belladonna perfume bottle adorned with brightly colored flowers. And for him you might consider their beautifully crafted jewelry chest made of natural woods. Or make it a gift you can share together and pick up some of their beautiful stemware. Macy's (111 N. State St; 312-781-5000) is a classic store with endless ideas. Whether it's jewelry, fragrance or candy you're looking for, you can definitely make this a one stop shop.

For the Thrill Seekers

Okay, so you want something a little more exciting? Something that will literally make your heart beat faster? Oldtown Fitplex (1235 N. LaSalle; 312-640-1235) will give you daredevils a boost of excitement. Try indoor rock climbing on any of their challenging routes. You and your loved one will take your relationship to new heights. Private lessons start at $35. Get a great work out at Fleetwood Skating Rink (7321 W. Archer Ave; 708-458-0300) as you and your skate date go back in time and roll around the rink to some groovy tunes and hip fluorescent lights.
Phone: 312-541-1951

When I was ten my mother took us on a spontaneous road trip. We had no set destination but eventually landed at the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, North Carolina. For those of you who don't like to fly by the seat of your pants, planning a trip to the Biltmore is easy. Driving in is super convenient with the home sites Regional Driving Directions page. The Estate is about 15 minutes from Ashville Regional Airport which is serviced by most major airlines and car rental companies. Or you could Greyhound it, landing about four miles from the Estate.

Being there…

The Festival of Flowers is being held until May 20th. You can listen to classical music under the arbor, ask gardening questions to the masters, or enjoy wine and chocolate while your children stomp the grapes. During their summer evening concert series you can watch the sun set over the Blue Ridge Mountains while you watch Chicago perform, yes, Chicago. Fall hosts the Harvest Celebration with abundant activities and the changing of the leaves in the mountains, need I say more? It was Christmas time when I went so the Mansion stood in stark contrast to the evergreens surrounding it. Inside a choir sang in the recessed greenhouse-like entry and the smell of cinnamon filled the air from the kitchens below. These days you can experience their Candlelight Christmas Evenings, but it is best to purchase those tickets online at biltmore.com where you can find lots of other details.

Building memories…

As Americans we are the “young country” and as such are starved for true old world culture. The Biltmore embodies the opulence of antiquity fused with American modernism. Treat yourself to a unique and unforgettable experience.

See America's only true castle for yourself.

1. Navy Pier
2. Shedd Aquarium
3. Millennium Park
4. Chicago Art School
5. Devon Street (If you like Indian food)
6. China Town (if you want to have some Chinese, Vietnamese or Korean good food)
7. John Hancock (has a nice observatory at the top)
8. Sears Tower (2nd biggest building in the world)

And so on, there are a lot of other places where you can go around but the above ones are the best ones. Also, a person should at least plan for one full week to enjoy all these places since they are not just sight seeing places instead they need attention and provide with a lot of fun if given time. Chicago has huge markets if you are a shopping freak and you can enjoy yourself in big malls out there.

One thing to keep in mind is, don't be hungry till late night because most of the hotels and restaurants close very early around 9 pm and it's very hard to get anything in the night. Obviously if you can find a McDonald then it's great since it's a 24 hour service. Enjoy!

“The fall colors around here are absolutely gorgeous,” said Bill Bickett owner of Ayers Landing, a canoe outfitter located along the Fox. “You’ll see oranges, and yellows, and reds, and still a lot of green, with all the towering pine trees in the area.”

Canoeing the Fox River

The Dells section of the Fox is lined with St. Peter’s sandstone cliffs and outcroppings that can climb as high as 40 feet in some parts of the Dells. These cliffs are home to multitudes of swallows that love to dart madly about the cliffs as you canoe past. The river, dotted with islands big and small, is the habitat of a number of great blue herons, egrets, ducks and birds, as well as a pair of eagles that have been nesting in the Dells section for just over two years.

“The best time to see the colors is usually between October 1st and the 20th,” Bickett offered. “And with all the rain we’ve been getting in the area, the colors should be real good this year.” For $40.00, Ayers rents canoes and transports paddlers upriver for their choice of a 12-mile trip, starting six miles above the Dells Section, or the 6-mile trip which begins just outside the Dells. Multi-day trips are also available.

I’ve paddled the 6-mile Dells river section many times. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with some friends and a cooler of cold beverages. We always enjoyed exploring the islands and caves along the way, jumping off of rock ledges into the water below, and lunching on Indian Island—the biggest of the Fox islands at just over one-block long. The many sandbars along the water make great places to stop, lounge about, and take a breather from the winds that can whip through the river at times. These same sandbars occasionally cause riffles which are always fun to paddle through. The sighting of a majestic great blue-heron, with its 5-foot wingspan, has made each of my trips to the Fox memorable. With paddling, a lunch break, and time to explore, the 6-mile trip takes about 4-5 hours. And believe me when I say this: the sight of the fall colors burning bright atop a sandstone cliff is a sight to behold.

Getting there. From Chicago. Take the Dan Ryan (94) South to Interstate 57 South. Take 57 South to I 80 and exit at Route 23 (Exit 90). Take Route 23 North for 5 miles until you see a sign marked “Wedron.” Turn right, going east for 3 ½ miles. At the bottom of the lone hill, you’ll see a red barn on the right, followed by the Ayer’s Landing sign on the left. Turn Left and follow the road to the outfitter (Ayers: (800) 540-2394/(815) 434-2233. Other area outfitters: C & M Canoe Rentals in Wedron at (815) 434-6690.

Other sights of area interest: (1) Starved Rock State Park. Fifteen miles west, the many trails in this state park are a great way to experience the fall colors and learn about the history of the Fox Indians and their impact on the area. (2) Ottawa. The quaint town of Ottawa is a fun place to explore, and the town square itself, the sight of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates, is now a great park with many benches and picnic tables to relax on and take it all in.

It took me several years to overcome my fears and make my first step on USA soil. Isn't it surprising that me, being an Israeli, am not afraid to travel all over my country, to walk for my pleasure on military paths near the boarders, under the eyes of the Hezbollah, visit any mall I wish, travel by buses, but shivered only from the thought to walk on the streets of New-York City, or travel along the country?!

Well it was the time before Mayer Giuliani, when the newspapers and films covered the stories of crime all over the country, like bands of motorcycles, and the situation in New-York City, especially the underground.

After I visited the USA for the first time, on 1993, it became like a magnet to me, and I visited the USA five times more, during the years 1994 thru 2001. Each visit lasted a month. So, I can say, proudly, that I lived in the USA for a period of half a year.

I had in my mind thoughts to put on some media the descriptions of those trips.

The last trip that I and my wife took was on 2001.

We started our tour on the 23rd of September and ended it on the 17th of October, having in mind to travel the state of New-York during the "Indian Summer".

For those who have no patient to read my entire story, I can summarize in brief that the root was from Chicago through the states of Indiana, Ohio, New-York, New-Jersey, Washington DC, Pennsylvania, and back to New-York City.

I always start planning our trips several months ahead. As the USA is so convenient for the tourists, I manage to plan for each day the places to visit and places to stay for the night. We find Super8, Best Western and Comfort Inn to be chains of perfect motels for our needs. I start my planning by marking on the map the places were those motels are, and I build the plan of the day to drive no more then 150 miles, because my back pains.

We booked our flying tickets on July 2001 to take off on the 23rd of September. Then happened "September 11". After we recovered from our shock, we decided that it is not typical for us, being Israelis, to cancel such a trip. Our family members and friends tried to prevent us from going to the USA in such a time. Now I felt for the first time the hesitations of those who want to come to Israel. But from our experience we knew that such terror activity cannot take place again too soon.

I myself felt that I have to "support" the American people with their grief and shock, after the long years they supported my people.

We passed much stressed days because all the flights to the USA were canceled, but we were lucky that several days before the 23rd of September, the flights were renewed.

So, the happy day came and we started our trip, flying with Lufthansa to Frankfurt to continue with them to Chicago.

I don't know how other people manage to sleep the night before the flight or during the flight. We slept very little, if any, before the flight, as the flight was due to take of at 5AM and we should be at the airport 3 hours before embarking the plain, because of the Israeli severe security check up. We couldn't also get some sleep during the flight because we were excited and worried about our connection. It was one hour interval between landing and taking off in Frankfurt, and according to the captain's announcement we were half an hour late. As the plain landed we rushed to the appropriate gate and to our astonishment we found ourselves in a long line. Immediately we felt at home: severe security check up! As it was only a few days after the renewal of the flights to the USA, the checkers did their job very slowly and according to the questions they asked one could feel the embarrassment of the security guys.

At last, after one hour delay we found ourselves in the air. The flight was very convenient, and after 8 hours we landed at the international terminal of Chicago airport. We were asked only about our purpose of coming, we got a tourist visa for 6 months, and we rushed on our way to our hotel, one of the Travelodge chain.

Chicago.

We woke up in the morning after sleeping some hours, with the known feeling of jet lack. The sun greeted us as a familiar friend. We liked the city from the first moment, almost like San-Francisco, the city we like most in the USA. It is a pleasure wandering through its streets especially the Michigan Ave with its lot of street sculptures. Where else can you take a picture with President Abraham Lincoln or ride an ox? In the back of my head I could hear Frank Sinatra singing his famous song about Chicago being his home town.

We stayed 5 days in this charming city, visiting all its recommended high-lights.

We were lucky to experience a very special exhibition in the Art Institute: pictures of Paul Gaugin and Vincent Van Gogh side by side, painting the same view or subjects. Such a case you can meet once in a life time!

We enjoyed, free of charge, two concerts for the public, one in St. James Cathedral and the other at the Cultural Center.

We couldn't visit two of the sites we planned: The Sears tower and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. The authorities were so confused because of September 11, that they forbade non authorized people to visit those very tall buildings!

We wanted to visit a zoo located in Brookfield, which was highly recommended in tour books but we had some difficulties to get information how to reach there. I almost gave up, but finally I bumped into a tourist information office on Michigan Ave, where I learnt how to reach Brookfield by train, and than by bus.

Traveling by the train was an opportunity to see a bit of Chicago vicinity.

Well, it was worthwhile to visit that zoo. The animals live there in huge cages. One gets the impression that someone wanted to give the animals the feeling of living in their natural habitat. My wife enjoyed the zoo so much, especially the big monkeys

(usually she doesn't like much the look of animals), that it caused her to look for more zoos along our trip.

In the morning of the fifth day we walked to the Hertz agency office to pick up a car we rented in Israel. I enjoy very much driving American's cars, being so huge and convenient. I always rent a car that has a cruse control. My wife says that driving an American car is so simple and convenient because you need only to hold the wheel with your hands and put a match in each eye to hold your eyes open.

I don’t know why, but I wanted very much to get this time a Ford Taurus, and you can imagine my excitement getting to the agency and found a big white Ford Taurus waiting for me. I asked for instruction how to operate the handle gear stick, because it was connected to the wheel and not to the floor, as I'm used to, and the man in service thought that I came from some other planet, not knowing to operate such a simple element…

Overfilled with joy we drove back to our hotel to pick our language and started our way out of Chicago. I cannot avoid mentioning the wonderful service of the AAA by providing guide books and maps. I cannot imagine a successful trip without their guide facilities. I also want to praise the excellent roads and guiding signs, which make the driving in the USA a "piece of cake". A local person who is born to such a system cannot appreciate it like an outsider.

Indiana.

We drove through the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. At the visitor center we viewed a nice audiovisual program about the history of the lake and its shores and drove towards South Bend. There we visited Copshaholm, the Oliver mansion. A very impressive house, owned by the man who built a factory of agriculture machines. Besides the large building, there is a smaller one, typical house of the workers. As a Polish born, I was surprised to learn that all the area was populated by immigrants from Poland, and the worker's home is called Dom Robotnika.

We found a nice restaurant for dinner, where one of the waiters, explained to us how to reach the S. Ray Miller Antique Auto Museum near Elkhart.

We visited several such museums during our traveling in the USA, but this museum was the biggest and the richest. One can roam hours among sparkling antique cars, and watching puppets in and beside the cars, dressed with clothes of the appropriate period.

The USA is a "young" nation comparing to Israel, and such a museum symbolizes to me the efforts the American do to preserve their history in every discipline.

While driving to our booked motel, we met strange horse carriages; we recognized them as belonging to the Amish, according to pictures we've seen in the past. We took photos of them, while driving. Later on we learnt that they are not allowed to be photographed, so, I apologize!

That night we spent at the Best Western Angola Inn.

Ohio.

We started that morning visiting the Historic Sauder Village in Archbold.

Entering the ticket office, the lady in charge noticed that we are foreigners. She was so pleased to hear that we came from Israel at such a time, that she wanted to raise the Israeli flag, in favor of us. We refused, because, as Israelis, we have instructions not to be outstanding, and we kept this advice, even while being in the USA.

It was nice to walk through all the rooms describing the early life of the American craftsmen learning about antique tools and clothing. The most attracting part to my wife was the doll room. It was hard to pool her from this charming room.

Our next station was the museum of art of Toledo. It has a very impressive collection of art and we enjoyed very much to watch all the collections.

I planned a relaxation day before continuing our trip, and I choose to make it in Port Clinton, being on the Lake Erie shore, and in the honor of the name "Clinton", which for me as an Israeli means a lot!

So, we stayed two nights at Best Western Port Clinton. Again, we had a very warm welcome from the lady manager, telling us that we, the Israelis, traveling at this time in the USA, prove to her how to continue with regular life, beside all the troubles!

In the morning we took a ferry to the Put-in-Bay Island, and we had a very charming morning. The rest of the time was dedicated to resting.

Our first station, on the next day, was the Health Museum of Cleveland. How often have you the luck to wander alone in a museum? I didn't ever visit such an interesting museum! The most impressive experience was traveling inside a huge tooth, learning from the inside about its structure.

The next station was, of course, the Cleveland Zoo. We passed nearby a group of Amish people, dressed in their typical closes, who visited the zoo, and we pretend to take photos of ourselves, but focused on them. Forgive us again!

We crossed the "border" to Pennsylvania and slept at Super8 Motel Erie.

New-York state.

We were excited to get near the area where the "Indian Summer" prevails. As my wife once said:" traveling that area is jumping from one picture into another"!

Crossing the border to New-York state we reached a charming little town with a bold sign: Public Library. One of the tourists' privileges in the USA is using the internet in the public libraries conveniently and free of charge. For the local citizens it is so obvious, that they cannot appreciate it. We wrote home calming messages to our family.

When I am in the USA, I mainly watch two TV channels: the weather channel and Fox News. On an evening bulletin they told the public that because lack of tourists in New-York City, there are excellent deals for those who want to get an hotel there.

So we also checked the deals on the Internet and there was nothing attractive. Our reservation was still cheaper than all the "deals".

The old rule prevails: never believe what they want to "sell" you on the news media!

We drove along the shore of Chautauqua Lake towards Corning.

My language is too poor to describe the delight feeling to be in the NW of the USA during the "Indian Summer". Better writers than me did it a lot. I can only wish everybody to experience it.

Corning - a charming little town – was our next stop. There we visited the Corning glass center. Walking through magnificent pieces of glass art, one cannot avoid wondering how people developed the glass industry and the secret of producing such wonderful and delicate pieces of art. There is so much creativity in each model!

One cannot avoid adoring the skills like patience, punctiliousness, delicate and strong muscles that the manufacturer needs!

That night we stayed at Super8 Motel Corning.

The next day was dedicated to travel through the Finger Lakes. We started with a delightful walking along the scenic glen in the Watkins Glen State Park. At noon we visited the Rose Hill Mansion, admiring its Greek revival style and charming furnished rooms. At the afternoon we walked again in a glen and admired the Taughannock falls near Ithaca. At night we stayed at Super8 motel Binghamton.

Next morning driving on route 88 we reached Howes Cave. The uniqueness of this stalactites and stalagmites cave is that it is very deep. You go down by elevator, and then you tour it by a rowboat. Our "sailor" must have been the most bored man on earth, as it was reflected on the look on his face, and his explanations. I wanted so much to ask him what keeps him in his "job", but, I didn't dare…

Our next goal was the Catskill Mountains. We drove the recommended roads by the AAA's map all the way to Kingston, where we stayed at Super8 Motel Kingston.

The next morning we started by crossing the Hudson River. If someone was watching us, he could, I believe, watch two strange people with open widely mouths, for a good period of time. For us, the Israelis, coming from a relatively dry area, such a huge amount of water is a miracle!

Hyde Park is a little town with several mansions and museums. We could visit only one mansion and we picked the Vanderbilt Mansion. What can I tell you?! It is good to be a millionaire, and the best is to be such one in the USA!

Wandering through the rooms and the gardens reminds you the biggest and richest palaces of the kings in Europe.

Our next visiting place was West Point. Can you imagine my excitement, being an Israeli officer, coming near the legendary place on which we heard and learnt during our training? It was a big disappointment to find it is closed to visitors because of September 11! Only family members of the young trained officers were allowed to enter the place! The only compensation we got was a very good meal in a Mexican restaurant not far away from the camp.

We made a charming visit to Bear Mountain; from its top one can see the entire Hudson valley below as far as the horizon…

That night we stayed at Best Western Nyack.

New Jersey.

We passed this state on our way to Philadelphia. The only place we visited was Edison National Historic site at West Orange. Wandering through the laboratories one cannot avoid thinking about the huge contribution this man gave to the human development!

That morning was the only raining time during our visit in the USA. Can you imagine our luck being on a tour with only two hours of rain during 25 days?

Well, coming from the Holy Land, the sun always follows us…

We found no more interesting sites to visit in NJ. What we did found, with no offend, that NJ is only a passing roads to many Americans. There were no such crowded roads in any other state! After some very long and fatigue driving hours, we reached Brooklawn, our next two days base for visiting Philadelphia. There we stayed at Days Inn.

Philadelphia.

I think there is no Israeli who did not study the early history of the USA. To me this period of time was always fascinating, and comparable to the Jewish straggle to establish our own state. So, a visit to Philadelphia is accomplishing of a childhood dream! We had a very exciting day at the Independence National Historic Park.

I couldn't avoid taking pictures with the Liberty bell.

At the evening we had a very pleasant meeting with a couple of American friends, who came especially to meet us from Wilmington, Delaware.

We became friends when we met them on a guided tour to Scotland a few years before, and our friendship keeps going on. They took us to a very unique restaurant called Ponzio's.

The food and the company were great!

The meeting with the Amish people as I described above, made us curious about them. Reading the AAA guide book, we found to our pleasure that we are not far away from the Amish land. Our former plan was to drive straight to Washington D.C., but now we decided to visit first the Amish land. It came out as an excellent decision. At the Amish village Bird-In-Hand (what a name?!) we found all the explanations we asked for. There is a tourist center explaining all about the Amish people: their foundation, believes and traditional way of life.

Full with satisfaction we drove to Washington D.C., to our reserved motel – Days Inn Alexandria. There we stayed 3 nights.

Washington D.C.

It was our third visit to this wonderful city that we like so much.

At this time we stayed in a beautiful suburb named Alexandria. My wife even found a suitable and cheap jacket at a Benetton store. Sometime you need to come to the USA in order to buy cheap and good European products!

This time we visited museums that we hadn't the chance to visit on former tours to D.C, like that for Modern Art and the Corcoran Gallery of Art. At the last one we had a very nice experience, listening to a great performance of Jazz at noon.

To my disappointment the botanical gardens in the city were closed.

Pennsylvania.

We faced a very interesting but emotional day. Our plan was to visit Gettysburg.

At first we visited Eisenhower National Historic site. It was surprising to learn that such a great soldier and leader had habits of a common man, sitting by the fire place or running a farm. I think that dealing with animals is much more easy then dealing with people…

In the memory of those who died in the battle of Gettysburg, I don't even dare to tell with my poor words about the place. I can only tell, that me, an Israeli officer who participated three wars, suffered again all the horror, pain and agony I felt.

May be such a war, must have happened in the history to make the American people what they are today…

It was not easy to get a room for the night at Harrisburg. After we found one in Super8 Motel Carlisle, the owner explained, that in the area there was an exhibition and motor race of old cars, occasionally happening once a year in those days. As he told us that all the roads will be crowded we canceled our plan to visit the famous chocolate factory, Hershey.

New-York City.

Next day we drove all the way to New-York City. Lucky enough, we were advised by a tourist information office, in NJ, that there was only one open way to enter NY City, by the Lincoln tunnel. The Holland tunnel was closed to the public because the works in ground zero.

It took us two hours to cross the tunnel because of the heavy traffic.

Can you imagine how happy I was to return the car after more then 4000 miles?!

It was our third visit to NY City. This time we stayed in a booked apartment in Greenwich Village. I don't know why, but the city looked to me quite different this time.

The buildings were not so high; visiting Time Squire was not so exciting…

We stood 2 hours in the line to buy tickets to the Loin King musical, but left the line when we found out that the price was 92$ per ticket!

We enjoyed very much staying in Greenwich Village. It is not at all as NY we met on previous visits.

We also enjoyed wandering in the near neighborhoods, like Chelsea.

A couple of friends from Long Island, with whom we traveled together in Lapland, invited us to dinner in a restaurant. Although the table was booked before, it took a long time until one table was vacant. Well, it seemed that the New-Yorkers were coming back to themselves…

We took the subway to Brooklyn. We walked on the charming streets of Brooklyn Heights, and then we faced very emotional scenery – in the promenade facing ground zero, many lighted candles and wreaths of flowers in the memory of the innocent victims…

Such an end of the visit to USA reminded us more than anything the place we are going back…