Tagged With "Butte Hill"
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Re: Heidelberg Castle: Where Gumbo Was (#135)
If you're referring to the marked area below, it's not an illusion, but not part of a building, either! There are buildings further up the hill, but not that close to the castle.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Jan, 21, 2014: Raccoon, Vancouver, British Columbia
And they are smart. When my kids were young, we used to camp every summer in Maine, at a site where raccoons came every night to feast at the cans. One year I decided I'd had enough, and brought chain tethers to keep the lids on. Worked fine, the lids stayed quiet all night. But in the morning, when we left our tents, we found that our two stryofoam coolers (which were not in use) had been shredded, all the implements from the table were on the ground, and the ropes securing our storage tarp...
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Re: Is Porto worth the trip?
Much as I loved my time in Porto...it's NOT a day trip. Much too much to do there, including evening stroll along the Douro, port-wine tasting across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia and more. I'd say take the advice above and save Porto for another trip. Of the recommended day trips above, I'd vote for Sintra. It's an easy trip--trains run about every 30 minutes, more frequently in rush hours, The town itself is interesting, the Moorish Castle up on the mountain and the Pena Palace above that...
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Re: The "Eiffel Tour" Only Starts with the Tour Eiffel
Your piece will serve inspiration for many future trips,I'm sure of that.I had no clue as the extent of Eiffel's work but I now want to see several of them in person. This serves as an example of why TravelGumbo is so different and needed
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Re: The "Eiffel Tour" Only Starts with the Tour Eiffel
PHeymont, Your post reminded me that I had seen a pre-fabricated church designed by Eiffel in Baja, Mexico. It is in the small town of Santa Rosalia and still in use. There is more info here .
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Re: The "Eiffel Tour" Only Starts with the Tour Eiffel
Absolutely fascinating, thank you. And I thought that UK's Isambard Kingdom Brunel was prolific!
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Re: The "Eiffel Tour" Only Starts with the Tour Eiffel
Brunel has fascinated me since reading a book on the Great Eastern, an unlucky ship he designed. Perhaps someday I can find time to post about his work...unless I hear a volunteer? Thanks!
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Re: The "Eiffel Tour" Only Starts with the Tour Eiffel
I'm personally acquainted with one of Brunel's railway bridges, the Gatehampton Bridge over the Thames in Berkshire, England. I was advised by my Thames Path guidebook that I was approaching it. There was a strategically placed bench in a meadow where I sat, had a snack and looked at it from a distance for a bit before walking under it. Not at all knowledgeable, or even much interested, in bridges I tried to get at least a glimpse of what the guide meant when it said "one of Brunel's Great...
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Re: The "Eiffel Tour" Only Starts with the Tour Eiffel
T&N, you make an interesting point about the air circulation and coolness of Eiffel's building. These days we are constantly reading about advances in "green design," intended to reduce excess energy use. Ironic how well some of those principles of making life bearable were known so long ago by those who didn't have the option of mechanical air-conditioning! Another example is in today's blog about Gaudi's Casa Battlo in Barcelona, which uses an open well through the center of the...
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Re: Sri Lanka: A Land Like No Other. (Part 5) The Elephants of Pinnawala
Thanks, PortMoresby! And we've not even been to the sacred tooth relic in Kandy, the medieval ruins of Polonnaruwa, the beautiful hill country filled with tea plantations and "The World's End", a wildlife safari at Yala National Park, nor any of the nice beaches (but keep reading -- reports on these are coming). Sri Lanka is a great destination, especially now that the civil war is over. I was doubly lucky to not only be able to visit a dear friend there but to have time to leisurely explore...
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Re: Where in the World is TravelGumbo (#178)
Here are today's clues. The boardwalks you see above take you through wetlands on the ridge of a hill. These are some photos of these wetlands, and what grows in them....
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Re: Where in the World is TravelGumbo (#178)
Time for some more clues. Besides the water on the hill, our also has an interior attraction. There are two entrances to this interior attraction. The first photo is of the historic entrance, which is now fenced off -- from this opening you descended by rope. The second photo is of the newer entrance to our destination allowing you to walk in. I hope this helps....
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Re: Clouds Hill - home of Lawrence of Arabia
I'm so pleased to see Clouds Hill, long on my list and a definite for my next visit to the south. Thanks Mac.
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Re: Welcome to The Golden State.
Currently estimated at 32,00 acres in size, the Butte Fire is now burning 1 mile from Mokelumne Hill. While I have no doubt the tiny town will be saved, your best view of it at the moment may be here , on TravelGumbo. More details on the CalFire site.
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Re: November 30, 2017: Delhi in a Nutshell
The Ajmeri gate, if I'm not mistaken - Ajmer in Rajasthan was much more important in the past, but now known mainly as the portal to Pushkar, where the world renowned 'camel fair' is held. Perched on a conical hill there is the only temple in India dedicated to Brahma
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Oct. 2nd, 2014: What is a "Folly"?
Seems most government buildings in North America, by this definition, are follys. The Broadway Tower and its overview from the hill are quite an eye pleaser, Garry. Nice photo and a good education on a folly. Thanks.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Oct. 12, 2014: Sunday in the Park with Dog
Great photos that shows why parks in Paris are so special! Hands down my favorite park experiences are in Paris. Parisians enjoy their parks and gardens so much, it's contagious!
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Oct. 12, 2014: Sunday in the Park with Dog
I like city parks like this one, though they in no way compare to National Parks, which I enjoy infinitely more.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Feb 11, 2015: Fruit of the Vine
I never knew that New York was a wine producer. I'll add that to my shopping list in August. Blossom Hill of California is a big seller here in the UK. Thank You !!
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Re: Where in the World is TravelGumbo? #55
I believe it's time for another clue. @madtraveldiarie, this place is not in India but you're on the correct continent. The place of interest sits on a hill and as you ascend to it you'll see this scene: Does this help anyone figure out where Gumbo is?
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Re: Spring Time on Table Mountain
Thanks adventuretime88 , Your blog made me feel like I was taking that hike! California really is an incredible state .
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Re: Spring Time on Table Mountain
A most beautiful place! I can see why it's special to you. Glad that there are still unspoiled places left like this in California. From your photos it's a little difficult to get a sense of the size and scale of Table mountain. Is it a huge place? A smaller oasis?
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Re: Spring Time on Table Mountain
I have spent whole days hiking Table Mountain and haven't even covered half of it. The top of the mountain is divided by the single two lane road that cuts up and over it. This day was spent on the West side of the divide. I couldn't find any information on the square mileage, but as a rough estimate I would say "huge". There are also caves, which I have never found, but then again I have never found Phantom Falls, either. Just North of this spot there is a "ghost town" called Cherokee.
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Re: Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, Vernon: Where Gumbo Was #31
They are similar in sharing the general features of Gothic architecture...but this one, while nearly as high in the nave, is much narrower. There are quite a few famous Notre Dames, especially in France. Marseille has one high on a hill, overlooking the port.
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Re: The Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana (Where Gumbo was #130)
Fascinating. The tailings pond looks so inviting. I hate to think that water fowl might land there. I hope animal instinct keeps them away from the toxic water. I also wonder what will become of the pit after the water is purified and pumped away. Or, will that process continue indefinitely because of the water seepage?
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Re: The Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana (Where Gumbo was #130)
Thanks for your comment, HistoryDigger. The tailing pond is relatively shallow and I don't believe is anywhere near as contaminated as the pit water. But I still wouldn't swim in it (not that you could, the entire area is sealed off except to workers) The pit water really is not accessible to anything except birds flying in, and hopefully their natural fear of flying into a hole would keep them away. There's enough rivers and lakes nearby that they have a lot of options -- not like trying to...
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Re: The Berkeley Pit, Butte, Montana (Where Gumbo was #130)
Wow what a piece of history. I didn't even know this existed. Thanks for sharing this story.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, May 9, 2015: All-You-Can-Eat Dim Sum
Last time I was at Top of the Mark I was in high school. It was THE place to go on prom night, along with the Tonga Room across the street at the Fairmont. I actually seriously considered staying at one place or the other on this road trip but opted for the free parking at the hostel, so annoying was the price of parking on Nob Hill. Interesting how decision-making can work. And btw, check in next Saturday and see where I actually did have a drink after dim sum.
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Re: Max Gate - home of British author Thomas Hardy
I walked once from Dorchester to 'Hardy's Cottage' but somehow managed to miss even the existence of this one. Could it look more English? It's now joined 'Clouds Hill' on my list for next time.
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Re: Discover the Texas Hill Country
Thanks for the tour I should have taken on my one trip to the Hill Country...although with only one day, it seems I would have needed another trip anyway, and that Kent Black barbecue plate is calling my name right now...
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Re: Discover the Texas Hill Country
Travel Rob, spring is my favorite time to visit the Texas Hill Country because the land is in full bloom with all the wildflowers, bees, and birds. Plus the weather is so nice, you'll want to be outside. If you are use to warmer weather, come during July 4th because we treat that holiday like Christmas and go all out with parades and festivals and fireworks. Autumn offers its own seasonal charm and warmth. You really do have to visit mulitple times to experience it all!
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Re: Discover the Texas Hill Country
I've only been in the Hill Country one day, and that specifically was to hike Enchanted Rock area. Several pals and I did a day trip from a meeting in San Antonio and had a great time there. Definitely time to head back soon. Thanks for the wonderful post, and welcome to TravelGumbo!
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Re: Tough Trains
I've only been on one of those they list, but as we so often do, I disagree with some of their choices. For instance in India, some of the best rides are the mountain trains to Hill Stations, like the famous toy trains to Shimla and to Darjeeling, both of which I've ridden, the Shimla route twice. I'd also include Delhi to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, rather than to Mumbai. Ah well, in any case, so many trains, so little time.
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Re: Walking the Burgundy Canal
Every walk is different, of course, so planning, for someone like me who isn't a distance walker, is essential. I can walk comfortably up to about 10 miles with my little pack, more if I must but try to avoid it, so there's no rush in the morning to be out early. I enjoy a leisurely breakfast and head out mid-morning. I'm never in the position of looking for a place to overnight because I've reserved in advance, either well in advance or at least a day or 2, knowing where I'll be. In France...
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Re: Portland, Oregon - Part III - Escaping
Thanks again for a wonderful view of the Portland area. If you had continued East along the Columbia River you would have reached the Maryhill Museum . This fascinating collection of art started as the dream of Samuel Hill who was president of the Seattle Gas and Electric Company around the start of the 20th century. He hoped to build a Quaker farming community, but irrigation proved too difficult. Istead he was convinced to turn his mansion into an art museum. His collection was eclectic. I...
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PurpleDinner Greg
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Re: Sri Lanka: A Land Like No Other (Part 8) Hill Country
This is the chapter I've been waiting for, DrF. I 'm a lover of all things tea, which includes stays in tea growing places. I've made pilgrimages to the hill countries of various parts of India, China and Malaysia and now I believe "Ceylon" must be the next target. Many thanks for the fine introduction.
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Re: Sri Lanka: A Land Like No Other (Part 8) Hill Country
Thanks, PortMoresby! There's lots of interesting places to stay in the Hill Country, some in tea plantations themselves. My favorite place here was the Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya. A bit of historic elegance. Where else can you find a "cigar room" (where men gather to smoke) and a "billiards room" anymore?
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day. January 14, 2014: Calgary Peace Bridge
You have sharp eyes PHeymont! The third and fourth pictures are taken from the Crescent Hights, a small hill on the North bank of the Bow River. In the Calgary downtown core area, there are three bridges (tow for pedestrians and cyclists; one for cars) connecting the skyscrapers on the South bank and residential areas on the North bank of the river. The peace bridge is out of the picture 3 frame and in all other 3 pictures.
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Re: Gumbo's Pic of the Day, Nov 2, 2013: BootHill Graveyard, Tombstone, Arizona
Ah great memories Dr. F! We had the pleasure of strolling round Boot Hill and then shaking hands with both Doc Holiday and Wyatt Earp themselves! (Well, they were the real one's weren't they?). The tomb stones, or grave markers, in Boot Hill make great reading. Quite a number referring to folks being "legally hanged" (did that make any difference to the end result?). I particularly liked the tomb 'stone' (board) saying: "Here lies George Johnson, hanged by mistake 1882. He was right, we was...
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Re: The Petite Ceinture, Paris: Where Gumbo Was (#71)
Fascinating! I've been by the front many times and I never knew!
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Re: The Petite Ceinture, Paris: Where Gumbo Was (#71)
In an e-mail, Jonathan L provides an update—a happy one—on the Gare Ornano. It appears that about a year after I took my pictures, the station was sold, the KFC is gone, and a new cafe+recycling center has renovated the station; a picture below shows a view of the rear very different from the one below the KFC picture above. The site now also hosts food trucks! Thanks to Jonathan L for finding the followup, which can be found at http://www.larecyclerie.com/ It's in French, but if that's a...
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Re: 27, Rue Tholozé
Very nice! (including the 2CV...). I was in your neighborhood last summer—it's only a 10-minute walk over the hill to "our neighborhood" in Clignancourt, and we passed nearby both on our way to Broceliande, a really nice Breton creperie at 15, rue des Trois Freres, and on our way to visit Montmartre Cemetery. Our impression was that the retail streets were significantly more gentrified than some of the other parts, which is true in Clignancourt area as well. PS...Montmartre Cemetery will be...
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Re: Gumbo’s Pic of the Day, August 29, 2014: Postcards from Greece - The Portara on Naxos
I stayed once for a week on Naxos and the window of my room on the hill in the center of this picture had exactly the opposite view, this structure from a distance. I remember the guesthouse and the island fondly and could happily stay there for some time. An unpretentious and friendly place.
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Re: Help with Provence Itinerary
Nearest St-Remy: - Don't miss Les Baux . The village is touristy but the castle complex on top is fantastic and the views are to die for - you don't need to be a fan of scenery to appreciate them. - Roman ruins of Glanum , walking distance from St-Remy - Arles for more Roman ruins (but I think you've been already?) Farther away: - Day-trip to the Luberon for unmatched scenery and charming little villages full of vernacular architecture - what people build themselves, without an architect.
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Historic Route 66 (pt 4) - Gallup to Albuquerque
The last leg of my journey on Route 66 was from Gallup to Albuquerque. The is a lot to see on this leg, but I rushed to meet The Amazing Ms. D ,who was flying in to Albuquerque for a writers workshop. Therefore I only had time for one thing. I chose...
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Saguenay Fjord — Deep and Long but not very Tall
I’d heard as a schoolboy that the Saguenay Fjord was one of the longest in the world. Years later someone told me the area around Tadoussac was pretty, sparsely developed and inviting. Given a spare day or...
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Ottawa – NOT the coldest Capital in the world!
Ottawa is a vibrant and charming small city — so pleasant that it’s hard to believe it’s home to soooo many politicians. Of the national capitals I've visited, Ottawa seems the most livable to me (ie. if...