Moulin Rouge - Paris France

In this day and age most people hear "Moulin Rouge" and think of the movie that came out years ago. While I have seen the movie I never knew that so many people didn't know it was an actual place in Paris France. Because of this I do feel the need to clarify that the Moulin Rouge has been around for a long time, and is not just a movie (yes I had a few people that argued the fact it was just a movie). In fact is was built in 1889, its the most well known cabaret show in the world as most people have heard of it and/or seen photos at some point in their lives.

The show itself is very suprising. I have to admit when I passed it on the way to Sacre Coeur it didn't look like much and is something that could be easily missed if you aren't looking for it. A few days later when we went to the show I was amazed. I am not big on shows of this nature but this one got an A+ from me. The entire show is great, the most amazing thing to me was the can-can, I had never really seen a performance of the can-can that was as enjoyable as this one. Most people think of this place and think of the show, but don't forget to try their food while you're there, I wasn't expecting it to be that good, as I'm pretty picky, but even I enjoyed the variety of food that they offered. Also please be advised that this is a non smoking place, which personally was just another plus for me.

If you find yourself heading to Paris its a good place to make sure that you see and if you can get a reservation and have time make sure you see the show. They offer dinner and lunch shows however its best to catch the dinner show if you can, but I personally have never seen the lunch show so I don't know what the difference is. Its also a good idea to try and make reservations in advance if you can. If you want to check out what their rates are or make reservations you can do so at the website listed below (makes sure you click on english to switch, so you can read it).

http://www.moulinrouge.fr/
Located at:
Bal du Moulin Rouge
Montmartre
82 boulevard de Clichy-75018 Paris France

Metro: Blanche (Ligne 2)

Phone Number: +33.01.53.09.82.82

Eiffel Tower - Paris France

The Eiffel Tower is the most famous landmark in the city of Paris, when people visit Paris they always have to see the Eiffel Tower. While many people are happy just being able to see it and admire the beauty of it, many others want to climb to the top. There are a few things that you should know about the Tower if you decide that you want to journey to the top to get one of the most beautiful views in Paris. The first thing that you need to know is that there are three levels, the first level has a good view and a gift shop and a restaurant or two. The second level has more gifts and restaurants, and has a better view of the city. This is also where if you are going to the top you have to change lifts. The third floor has the best view and a Champagne bar, as well as Gustave Eiffel's office that has been restored to original condition.

Depending on what level you want to get to there are different tickets available. I would recommend that if you are going to buy a ticket you might as well get the one that goes to the third level. But just so you know what your option are the first is a ticket for stairs that will take you to the second floor, this is hard as you have to walk all the way to the second floor. You can get a ticket to the lift to the second floor or a ticket that will give you a lift to the third floor. But if you want to see the first floor you will have to walk, as when I went there was no lift to the first floor, I am assuming this is always the way that it is.

You can purchase some tickets online, I believe that you can only purchase the tickets that go to the third floor online, but if you do this, make sure that you know what time the tickets are for and get there at that time or a little early. The tower is open every day of the year and the hours can change but most of the year the hours are 9:30- 11:45 with the last lift admission being at 11:00 and the last stair admission being at 6:00. If you can its a great idea to make sure that you visit the tower twice, once in the daytime and once at night, I am certainly glad that i decided to do it this way.

While the tower is a must see there are few things that you need to know before you go to visit it. One, make sure that you check the website to make sure of what the hours are as they can change as certain times and for certain events. Two, if you are going be prepared for crowds and also be prepared to be hounded as you enter and leave by people selling all sorts of things. I was lucky when I went and didn't have any problem with being hounded to much or pickpockets, but a couple people in my party were not so lucky. So make sure that you do not stop for those selling these, and make sure that you keep your belongings safe and secure with no pockets or flaps left open on bags.

 Also, if there is a big event going on when you visit this can make the tower even busier. On my trip I happened to be there when there was soccer match going on and during the day the tower was crammed with fans and it made for a great experience but might not be what everyone enjoys. The tower is a place that many people visit and its also a place that events are held so check the schedule before you go. But enjoy your trip and make sure that you are careful.

The Official Site is a good place to find any information that you might want.

Arc de Triomphe - Paris France

The Arc de Triomphe is Paris France is one of the most well known landmarks in Paris. If you find yourself in Paris then you must go visit this site. The history behind the site is something that not many visitors know, for instance it was ordered to be built by Napolean in 1806, but construction was stopped between 1814 and 1826. The Arc de Triomphe was not completed until 1836 long after Naploean died, in 1821. The design of the structure itself is amazing, the names of 128 battles of the first French Republic as well as Napolean's Empire are written on the walls that are under the vault as well as the names of the generals that took part in each battle.
To me the thing that really touched me the most when visiting this site is that of the unknown soldier that is buried at the Arc de Triomphe. At the base you will see a torch every night this torth is rekindled, the torch stands as a reminder of the sacrifice that an unknown soldier gave in World War I.
 

The Arc de Triomphe is not an easy place to get to. The thing that you should make sure that you remember is that the traffic is not worth braving. The traffic in this area is awful and can be dangerous especially if you are not familiar with the area. When I went we ended up having to cross the street to get there, and let's just say I feel lucky to have made it safely. You can look at the monument from ground level and see the flame and the details, underneath it. Or you can climb to the top and look out at a view of Paris. The key to remember is that its a great idea to travel all the way to the top to see the view but you have to remember that the only way to get to the top is to climb about 40 stairs and then enjoy the view. This can be a great place for you to visit with kids if you don't want to have to put up with the crowds that are at many other places, but the climb to the top could be difficult for younger children.

 

The hours are

April 1 to September 30: 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

October 1 to March 31: 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Luxor Obelisk - Paris France

In Paris France there is a little known area called Place de la Concorde. It has some really beautiful things to see such as statues, but to me the most interesting thing to see is the Egyptian Obelisk. This Obelisk weight about 220 tons. Its over 3300 years old and has hieroglyphics running down it that exalt the reign of
Ramses II. This Obelisk used to mark the entrance to the famous Luxor Temple in Egypt. Making this something that is not only beautiful to see but also a piece of history. Being someone that loves the history of Egypt and is always wanting to learn more this was one of the must see stops on my lists of things to see in Paris. There is no admission and its open for you to see whenever you like however I would recommend going during the day but either early in the morning to towards the later part of the day as the middle of the day is busier than the early morning or early evening. There really isn't much to advise when you are going to see this momument, other than be mindful of the weather.

Catacombs of Paris - Paris France

In the 18th century the Catacombs of Paris were created as a way for people that were not able to be buried in cemeteries to have a final resting place. The catacombs house over six million remains and is a must see if you are in Paris. There are a few things that you need to know before visiting this site. The first is that it is underground, its a series of winding tunnels that are underneath the city, meaning that if you don't like tight spaces or dark places, this might not be a good idea for you. But if you think that you can handle the two then its well worth the visit. Also if you don't do well with stairs its important note that you have to go down 130 steps and up 83 steps during your visit and there are no bathrooms so make sure that you go before you visit. And its also a good idea to make sure that you pay attention to how many people they are going to admit when you enter. There is a limit as to the amount of people that are allowed in the catacombs at one time so they will hold people back from entering and you don't want your party to end up being split up. Also it gets a little chilly so make sure that you bring a jacket.

Once you go down the stairs and are in the catacombs you are in a very tight place with the remains of over six milion people. You can reach out and touch the remains, that's how close you are. But before you do remember that they are real remains. During my visit I saw people touching the walls (which are made of reamins) and I was a little mortified at the lack of respect that people had for the place. During your trip through the catacombs then its a little creepy as you are looking at bones and alters and what I can only assume are a sort of memorial. Being that they were written in French and I speak very little French it made the feeling and the experience a little creepier I think.

You will also note that there are certain areas that you are note allowed to go. If you look through the gates that close it off you might see areas that they are restoring and piles of bones that they are putting back into place. For some reason I found this interesting so it might  be worth it to try and a take a look while you are there. As I was leaving I noticed that a guard was checking every person's bag as they left and he had a small pile of bones and a skull next to him. I sat down beside him as I was waiting for the rest of my party and he told me that those were bones that people were trying to sneak out, and the areas that were closed off were places that people had damaged, as well as places that were worn due to age. So remember if you were thinking about stealing anything you won't get away with it (although I don't know why you want to).

Overall on my trip to Paris this is one of the top three places that I visited. My only regret is that I didn't have more time, and had taken more photos. I would recommend this place to anyone going to Paris and say that its a must see for anyone looking for an interesting or historic place to visit.


The Catacombs are open 10 a.m. to 17 p.m. every day except Monday, and the last admission is one hour before closing. The entrance address is 1, avenue of Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, and the phone number is 01 43 22 47 63

The Sewers of Paris - Paris France

Ok so this is something that most people have heard about but few have ever really given any thought to. Well I'll tell you a little bit about my trip to the sewers of Paris. I went on a trip to Paris with a few people and there were a few things that were already decided that we would do and some that were things we might see when we got there. Well the sewers were one of those things. Let me tell you that basically if anyone ever says that they have been to the sewers of Paris and that you should go see them, they don't like you, or they playing a very mean trick on you.

I guess the first thing that should have triggered a "this is not something you want to do" thought was when we got there, and were buying tickets the smell was awful. And of course of if you go into the sewers it's going to get worse, logic would tell you this, but for some reason that day the logical part of my brain wasn't working. It does house a museum in the sewers which I'm sure is full of great things to read and see and history that is worth learning about. But sadly I didn't see any of it. The smell was so bad that me and the entire rest of the group that I was with ran, yes ran, through the sewers just to get out. We didn't stop and read anything or take photos, nothing. Things were dripping from over us, which was very unsettling to say the least. And I ended up with something on the bottom of my jeans as did another girl that I was with and let's just say those jeans didn't make the trip home, they made a trip to the trash.

If you could avoid the things dripping and you didn't mind the smell there might be something that you want to learn or find interesting down there. But before you to decide to make the trip there, remember one thing. Remember the smell in a public bathroom and how bad that can be, and image being the sewer system where it all goes. And if the smell is really bad for you when you are buying tickets know that its only going to get worse. This is one place that I say enter at your own risk. You have been warned.

Are the French Really Rude?

Ah the city of Paris, the city of love. For some reason people look at this city and get one of a few thoughts, most people think of beauty and some people think of not wanting to go there because they think that people are rude. I had the great luck of getting to travel to Paris for two weeks a while ago. I have to admit I was nervous, as I had heard, like so many people that they don't like Americans and are rude. But I was also very excited as I couldn't want to see everything that Paris had to offer. What I didn't know was that all my fears were for nothing, once I got over there I noticed a few things that seemed to be a pattern. I knew hardly any French, I could ask a few things, "Where is the bathroom?", "Where am I?", "Do you speak English", and "please" and "thank you". This does not seem like a lot to know if you are traveling overseas, but I was with a group of people and some of them knew how to speak French so I wasn't too worried. Once I got there I was nervous and didn't want to venture out on my own, but I got more comfortable and started to do things by myself. Yes this young girl that knows no French and was in a different country for the first time was going it alone.

Here is was I discovered. As long as you are nice and have a polite additude then you have nothing to worry about. The key is remember that you need to treat them with respect and respect their customs, don't complain because many cafes close down at certain hours or if service in a restaurant isn't as fast as you are used to, they are used to sitting and relaxing more than some countries when they eat, which I found to be a nice change of pace. But the key and this one is big is even if you speak hardly any French or no French try, there were some times when I didn't bother trying and people were somewhat nice or rude. But I noticed that whenever I tried, even if I failed they might have laughed a little but they were generally nice and very helpful. And if I asked "Do you speak English" in French then they usually were happy to nod and help me with whatever I needed. For many people they don't like going to places where they live to find that someone from another country is visiting and not speaking their language, I have seen it many times in America. Remember that the French might think that way to, if you don't understand why just think of when you are standing in line and the person in from of you doesn't speak English and you get annoyed. The key is to try, and be nice about it. Doing this can really help your entire experience in Paris. Granted you will find that people are just rude, but that is true of anywhere that you go, so chalk that up to some people are jerks.

I was very nervous about my trip, but found that all the horror stories that I had heard where just things that many people said but I had yet to actually talk to anyone that had been that had a horror story about the how the people treated them. If you do know of someone that has a bad story try and think was it just a one time thing so most of the people were nice? Or perhaps did they not speak French or can they sometimes be rude without knowing it? Manners and effort can go a long way to helping any vacation no matter where you are going, just food for thought.

CNN Center - Atlanta Georgia

If you ever find yourself in the area of Atlanta Georgia and you are looking for something that you can do for an afternoon or just want to find somewhere in the downtown area that has a few places to eat then you need to make sure that you check out the CNN Center. This might not actually seem like somewhere that would have a lot to do, but there really is a lot that you can do to keep yourself entertained.

If you are looking for somewhere to have a sit and get a bite to eat then you have several choices that you can get in the food court area of the CNN Center, if you are going to an event at the Arena its a great idea to simple get there early and have something to eat as, the Arena is attached to the CNN Center. In addition to places to eat there are a few places to shop in the center as well. If you are looking for gear for any of the major sports in Atlanta this is the place to go as you can find a store in here that will have what you are looking for. There are also shops that have CNN merchandise so that you can get a something to remember your trip to the center by.

If you really have some time and want an experience that you can't get anywhere else then make sure that you take time to take the tour. You can tour the CNN Center and the CNN Studios, all you need to do is check out the times that they offer, and if you can make a reservation in advance as this will help to make sure that you can get in when you want to.

To learn more about the tour and to book tickets then go to this site. http://www.cnn.com/tour/atlanta/

My recent travels

Okay everyone, so I know that lately I haven't been updating and posting as much as I should but its been a little crazy lately. Just in the past month I can been to California to see my sister, which by the way was a lot of fun, and I have a lot of places to share with you guys. Then I came to Atlanta for a week then back down to Florida again. So as you can see my time has been a little short lately but I promise that I will start to get back in the swing of things and updating every week or two. So thanks for being so understanding! But at least you know that when I do get updating you will have a some great new places to hear about!

Pensacola Beach - Pensacola Florida

When most people think of the beach they really don't think about the fact that all beaches are different. The only thing that they have in common is sand and water, and while this is basically what the beach is there are many other factors that will help you choose the best beach. Pensacola beach has one very important thing that it can claim that others can't, the whitest sand of any beach. The sand here is white and the water is beautiful. You will know that you have hit Pensacola beach when you see the water tower that is pictured on the left. This is the main section of the beach that people that visit like to go, its the busiest part of the beach, so if you don't like crowds you can go down the road either way just a few minutes and find a less crowded  area.

Finding a less crowded area can help if you are traveling with kids as they are going to want to play in the sand and build a castle, and the crowded areas are always more difficult to build a castle in. Plus its much easier to walk up and down the beach and collect seashells with fewer people around. If you really like to collect shells then early in the morning or after a storm are the best times to do this. The tide will wash in new shells and the earlier you get there the fewer people will have started searching.

Unlike many other beaches Pensacola beach does have some buildings but that doesn't mean that there is no beach. The beach is not flat and has dunes (that you aren't allowed to walk on). So many other beaches have let people build up so much that its pretty much flat and some you can even drive on making the sand flat and packed down. Not so with Pensacola beach you can walk through soft sand and trust me this will give you a great workout.

If you are on of the people that like to go swimming at the beach then there are a few things that you need to look out for. The first thing is knkow if its jellyfish season and be very careful if you are going to go swimming during that time of year. There are always creatures of many sorts that are swimming in the water with people, so you need to make sure that you are aware of this before going in the water. For instance during some times of year you can sit on the beach and watch schools of sting rays swimming very close to shore. Its always a good idea to know what you are swimming with.

Pensacola Beach doesn't have any hours and you can visit any time of year or day, but remember dogs aren't allowed and you need to make sure that you are careful

Downtown Fairhope Alabama

If you ever find yourself in a small town in southern Alabama called Fairhope Alabama you might find that there really isnt' much to do. Its a quiet town with not many, if any, attractions that draw people to come and visit. There are some festivals and there are some historic places but in truth most people that come to visit go there for some quiet time. Its a good place to visit and then head downtown to just walk around and enjoy some time in a small town that isn't busy. In fact downtown is where you can find the pier, which also has beach access and a small duck pond, as well as a park for children. If you are looking for something different then the actual streets of downtown have small shops that very much remind you of an old time town. Parking is scarce and there are a lot of art galleries and places to just go and have a quiet bite to eat.

If you find that you are walking around downtown and want a treat then make sure that you visit the ice cream shop, its called the Muffin Man, and they have some of the best ice cream that I have even tasted. There is nothing quite like getting some ice cream and walking down the streets that are downtown Fairhope. If you are looking for a place to eat then your best bet is to try Papa's Pizza. They have New York style pizza as well as many other pasta dishes. If you want to go shopping then you should try and make sure that you visit many of the art galleries that are around downtown, they support local artists that get their inspiration from the surrounding areas. Other shops include the Private Gallery Jewelry, A Christmas Shop, The Book Worm (for used books), Fantasy Island Toys, and so many more.

If you are looking for more than just a quiet afternoon shopping then you might want to take a walk over to the playground that is built to look like a castle. This playground has tire swings and a castle, and a mini obstacle course that is great for children of all ages. Make sure that you take a stop and look at the wall of handprints. This wall has the handprints of all the people that helped to build this playground, in fact this playground was built by the people of Fairhope. If you come at the right time of year then you might even be lucky enough to catch the Art and Crafts Festival. This is a festival that features local craftsman and ones that travel into town to show their crafts. You can find everything from paintings, photographs, household items, and so much more. Its best to make sure that you check in advance to see when this event is taking place so that you can plan accordingly.

Tigers of Auburn - Auburn Alabama

 When I say the tigers of Auburn, most people will no doubt think of the Auburn tigers sports teams, this is not what I am talking about. What I'm talking about are the tigers of Auburn, that are statues. There was a local artist that created many different statues of tigers, and they are now scattered all around Auburn. I was never able to find out how many there were or where each one of them is located. I spend a couple months in Auburn a few years ago, and me and my brother in law took on the challenge to find as many of these as we could. There is one that is in the Auburn Athletic Museum, this one looks like a tiger with nothing special about it, there is another one that looks pretty much the same that is outside of a bank. A tiger sits on top of the Arbys, while there is blue one that is one the top of the high school. There is a silver one, as well as a tiger weather a suit, and even two that are made to look like superhereos, one is Batman. The superhero tigers are located at a golf course. There is my favorite which is a tiger that is painted with the all American theme, this one sits outside the fire house. If you happen to be in Auburn and you find another one, please let me know as I'm curious to know how many there are, and what they look like. There is no one place to find these as they happen to be all over the place. But they do make for a nice little treasure hunt.

Museum of Mobile - Mobile Alabama

The Museum of Mobile is located in downtown Mobile Alabama. While it may not be the biggest museum it still has a lot to offer. You can travel back in time and go through the history of Mobile and see what happened to shape Mobile into the city that it is today. You can see a canon that came from a real battleship and many artifacts that come from Mobile's past. This is actually a great museum if you want to learn more about the past of the this city but there are a few things to remember.

               While the museum is something that can be fun for all ages and has things that could entertain people of all ages there are some things that you should be aware of. There are some things such as photographs and exhibits that have warnings because they aren't suitable for everyone. Mobile's past includes things such as the building of the Bankhead tunnel where you can hear the sounds of the tunnel being built as you walk through a replica of the process. There are also tales of slavery, and the yellow fever outbreak. Make sure that you pay attention to what you child looks at as there are photos that are covered and have warnings before you lift it to see it. There aren't that many places that will have something like this but you don't want your child seeing that. There are many different things and most of which everyone can enjoy, it's a good idea for you to make sure that you stop by and visit this museum if you are in Mobile, you can also buy a special pass that will allow you to visit this museum as well as the Firehouse Museum and the Mardi Gras Museum, both of which are worth seeing.

The Museum of Mobile is located at

111 S. Royal Street

Mobile, Alabama 36602

Hours are:

Tuesdays through Saturdays - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sundays - 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission

$5.00 - Adult

$4.00 - Senior Citizen

$3.00 - Student

First Sunday of Each Month is Free

The Pier - Fairhope Alabama

Fairhope Pier Fountain

The pier in Fairhope Alabama may actually seem like something that would be fairly boring and not really all that exciting to see. Well you would be right, sorta. If you are looking for just a quiet and calm walk then walking down the pier can be exactly what you need. Or you can take a walk along the shore and enjoy the waves crashing aganist the wall. I personally prefer to walk along the shore, because if you choose to walk down the pier then you have to deal with people fishing and the smell that can come with it. If you don't mind the smell or simply just want to walk to end of the pier then it's actually quiet nice, and its not so long that you get tired. Also on the pier is the restuarant, its a very nice restaurant but is not open all year so make sure that you check the hours.



Baby Ducks Swim in the Duck Pond

 You will notice if you visit here that when you are driving in to the right there is a drive that leads somewhere else. This is my favorite part of the pier. This drive will lead to a picnic area and a park that is actually quite long and very peaceful, this is also the area in which you are allowed to swim. At the end of the road there is a pond that will have ducks and geese. If you head down here its work it to go and get a loaf of bread to feed to the ducks. They are actually friendly and many of them will actually come right up to you and take it out of your hand, but don't forget to feed the squirrels as well. There is only one thing that you need to remember about the duck pond, at certain times of the year the ducks will lay eggs so during this time be very careful of where you step and go. But once this time is over if you are lucky you will be able to see the baby ducks after they hatch. This area is free to everyone during the cooler months but once the summer hits then there is a small fee if you are not a Baldwin Country resident.

If you choose to visit this area at a busier timeframe, there are always different festivals and activites that go on down here. Every fourth of July the city holds a fireworks display and almost like a little carnival that is at the pier. Sometimes music festivals and even art festivals can be found by the pier. There is always something going on, so its a good to check in advance.

Colony Cemetery - Fairhope Alabama



Colony Cemetery Step Entrance


While cemeteries are something that a lot of people find interesting you will find just as many that have no interest in seeing them. However if you are interested in history and not just the aspect of seeing as many cemeteries as you can then if you happen to visit Fairhope Alabama then there is one cemetery that you should visit. Colony Cemetery is located in downtown in the area of Oak Street. While you will not find any famous names buried here and there were no great battles that left many men dead and buried here there is some history. Many of the people that were responsible for shaping Fairhope and even Baldwin County itself rest here. If you are interested in seeing one of the most beautful cemeteries there is then go here.



One of the many stone graves

 It has a drive that leads down into the cemetery that some people would say is a little creepy, but I think it's peaceful, or if you are on foot there is a step entrance, which is where the sign is located. It seems as if you are going into the woods and not a cemetery, once in the cemetery it almost seems like you are in another place. You can hear the passing cars, and sometimes when looking in the right direction you might be able to see one, but it's far from modern. For a long time this was the only cemetery in Fairhope and therefore is the oldest. It's free to see, but remember that you're not to go in at night, and should you decide to visit please be respectful as this is a graveyard and respect should be given.

Colony Cemetery
North side of Oak Street between N. Section Street and North Church Street

Office Phone number:
251-928-8162

Toomer's Corner - Auburn Alabama

Toomer's Corner located in Auburn Alabama has been a tradition in Auburn 1896. You can find the historic Toomer's Drug Store where you can get the best fresh squeezed lemonade in south, it's a must see if you happen to be in Auburn. Not only do they have great lemonade but their old fasioned soda fountion will prove as a way to take you back in time, with good food and even ice cream. As you walk to Toomer's Drugs make sure to take special note of the stars that you pass on the sidewalk. They are decorating the entire Toomer's area with names of past Auburn legends like Pat Dye and Bo Jackson.

Another tradtion that Auburn fans, alumni and student hold dear is the tradtion of the great oaks at Toomer's Corner. For generations after every Auburn football victory students flock down to Toomer's Corner and throw toilet paper over the trees and surrounds lamps, poles, and even the traffic lights. The oak trees serve as a staple and tradition not only in Alabama but in the south, and stand as a symbol of the states love for football and Saturday afternoon rivalries. This tradition is held so close to heart that you can even buy special Toomer's Corner toilet paper rolls in Auburn to take with you to the game, so that you can run right over to the corner after the game.

Please note that sadly in early February 2011 in was announced that these trees were poisoned, by a so called Bama fan (I myself being a Bama fan, do not claim him). While currently the future of the trees remains unknown, one thing is for sure. Regardless of the outcome the Toomer's Cornet tradition will live on, and those that remember this awful event will never forget how fans from all teams joined together to mourn this senseless act.

Toomer's Corner is located on the corner of Magnolia Avenue, and College Street.

"Damn the Torpedos" Historic Fort Gaines - Dauphin Island AL



Historic Fort Gaines



Fort Gaines is home to the famous phrase "Damn the torpedos full speed ahead!" Fort Gaines is located on Dauphin Island off the coast of Mobile Alabama. This fort has weathered many storms and now stands has a historical landmark, a gateway to the past. Built in 1821, this fort is a landmark and best know for it's role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. Visitors can see not only the fort but also the USS Hartford which is where the famous line from above was said. The fort has the original cannons that were used during the war on display.

                Fort Gaines is a landmark not to be missed and one that could soon be gone. In March 2009 the Cival War Preservation Trust placed this site on the "History Under Seige" list, this list is for the ten most endangered Civil War battlefields in the country. With the many storms that the fort as weathered it has sustained many damages and with the fort itself sitting only a short distance away from the Gulf then with weather that continues to erode the beach, the fear is that one day this historic site will be lost forever. If you do get the great chance to see this site then you will no doubt be amazed. Many of the walls and brick are still the original that was laid over a hundred years ago. While some of the fort that has been damaged has been repaired or perhaps turned into a model of what it would have looked like years agos when the fort was still in use. Please be advised that many of the tunnels are quite low, and there are some areas that you will not be able to see unless you bring a flashlight. There are also many areas that have an "enter at your own risk" sign on them. These are just small portions of the fort and one can still enjoy it even if they don't want to deal with these areas.

Dolphins in Mobile Bay, as seen from the ferry

If you want to get to the historic fort there are only two ways. The first is to drive across the bridge that comes from Mobile. The second however is the more unique and scenic way. If you go to Fort Morgan that is near Gulf Shores there is a ferry and you can take the ferry, you can either walk on or take or car. If you take a car they will make you pay by the car otherwise it's per person. Then the ferry will take you across the bay to Dauphin Island where you can visit the fort. If you take the ferry you will have the change of seeing Mobile Bay's sealife swimming around. Dolphins can often be seen from the ferry boats and can sometimes even get close to the ferry. If you are lucky enough to be able to see these creatures in their natural habitat then it is something you will never forget. You can then take the ferry back to Fort Morgan. They have a strict running time so make sure that you check on it before you head out.

Fort Gaines is located at

251/861-6992
51 Bienville Boulevard
Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528

The ferry's website

http://www.mobilebayferry.com/schedule.html

Zen Massage (Atlanta)

Now this is a place that is a must for anyone that likes to be pampered. I have to admit it's not very big, and they don't have a very large staff but the staff is amazing as are the services, and the prices are some of the best that I have ever found. There are three locations in the Atlanta area however the one that I went to was Camp Creek so please keep in mind that is the location that I know for sure I loved. Here is just an example of services and prices that are offered. Swedish Massage-1 hour- $39.95, Deep Tissue Massage- 1 hour- $49.00. They offer other massages as well such as Sports, Neuromuscular, Pregnancy, and Focus. And you can have add ons put at the end of your massages such as, Hot Stones, Aromatherapy, Reflexology. If you happen to be going to get a massge with your significant other they do offer couples massages. Prices are very good for that as well, and I would highly recommend it.

Photo of the Camp Creek Location is below.

Camp Creek Zen Massage

 Skin Treatments are also offered at the Camp Creek location. They offer Express Facials, Customized Facials, Microzones (you can choose the specialized treatment you want), Age Smart Facials, Medibac Clearing Facial, Back Facial/Body Treatment. Prices for all of these range from $25.00-$85.00 depending on what facial you want. They also offer several waxing services.

The staff is amazing, they are very helpful, and pay attention to what you need whether it is a massage or skin treatment. They talk to you so you can tell them what you want out your visit, and if have any problems or in the case of massages injuries.

Now I guess that I should point out there are a few drawbacks, it is a little out of the way, not really near much, however if you are driving it's not a bad drive from Atlanta or any of the surrounding areas. It is in a shopping center which can make it seem a little smaller that other places. And it is a Zen massage place so if you are looking for fancy, this isn't the place for you. However I find the simple design calming and very much relaxing.

I am sure that all the locations are very nice, and helpful and relaxing. However I would visit the Camp Creek location. I would call ahead to book a reservation to make sure you can get what you want, when you want it. Their contact information is as follows.

678-705-3343
3220 Butner Road, Suite 140

Atlanta, GA 30331
http://www.zenmassageusa.com/