WanderLust

Brooklyn Memoirs: Fulton Ferry State Park

It was not long ago that this hip, DUMBO location was filled with run down warehouses and shady cobblestone alleys.

In November 24, 2004 I set out, along with a few hundred people to watch a surprise performance, which was rumored to be none other than U2 at the Fulton Ferry State Park. We were all weary and a bit confused by the location. There were no galleries, no beautifully restored buildings or trendy bars. What surrounded us were old forgotten warehouses and buildings. As we waited for over an hour, we suddenly heard a loud booming noise and helicopters above us. We looked towards the Manhattan Bridge and witnessed one of the most incredible musical entrances. U2 on top of a flatbed truck, waiving to the crowd while playing Vertigo. The crowd went wild!  This became one of the most incredible musical experiences that many of us have witnessed, and to this day one of the most memorable experiences that I have living in New York City.

Today, this neighborhood has developed into a trendy area and would be unrecognizable from what it was eight years ago. They have added a carrousel, and given beauty to this tiny park, that I believe is one of the best-hidden secrets of Brooklyn, if not New York City. Go visit and you will not be disappointed.

The photographs above show images from the surprise concert, as well as the current addition to the park, which is the newly restored carrousel.

Long Drives, Medieval ruins, Glacial Waters and North Spain

I have to admit, that before I venture on a trip I don’t get excited until I step foot on the new country. For our trip to Spain, I was completely blindsided. It felt like falling in love. Discovering Barcelona was wonderful but the road trip in North of Spain was truly electric.

My curiosity was peeked when a friend showed me an image of her in the water near the Pyrenees. I did the research but was not prepared for the reality.  Crystal clear blue glacial waters, medieval ruins of a forgotten village, and the 360 view was just too overwhelming.

During our road trip we found the most enchanting scenery, and spontaneously stopped at a village or hiked towards ruins or went for a swim in the freezing water. I never had as much fun getting lost as I have in Spain. 

In all my years of travel, those moments were one of the most unforgettable and remarkable.

Highlights:

Arragon: road trip, glacial waters and medieval ruins

Cadaques: Salvador Dali’s home town and delicious churro con chocolate

Patrick Dougherty

As I innocently browsed through photo blogs of historic homes and gardens, I came across Partick Dougherty’s work.

Dougherty’s installations allows the viewer to connect with nature, regardless of the environment. The creative use of sticks, and saplings is truly amazing. I now have a new destination to add to my travel list.

Browse through his work, and maybe well meet in one of his exhibitions.

http://www.stickwork.net/installations.php

SOUTH OF THE BORDER

For anyone who has ever taken a road trip south to Florida, the constant and bizarre billboard adds for “South of the border” has become an icon. Like a little kid about to enter Disney world, I become very excited, some would say too thrilled when nearing this destination.

When I finally reach the “South of the border”, I instantly realize that the billboards were much more exciting than the final destination. So here it is, the place that makes me squeal with anticipation.  SOUTH OF THE BORDER, beyond the billboards!

Underwhelming, yes… still makes me squeal… yes! So next time you take the trip, make a stop and see the underwhelming southern road trip icon!