New York

United States

New York City, also known as the "Big Apple," is one of the world's most exciting and diverse cities. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the trendy neighborhoods of Brooklyn, there's never a dull moment in the city that never sleeps. 
New York City is home to more than 8 million people and is the most populous city in the United States. The city's five boroughs – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island – each have their own unique personality and culture.
The City is also home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge. The city's skyline is instantly recognizable and has been featured in countless movies and TV shows.
The city is also a major center for finance, media, and technology. Wall Street, located in lower Manhattan, is home to the New York Stock Exchange and many of the world's largest financial institutions. The city is also home to some of the world's most influential media companies, including The New York Times and CNN.
Despite its size and reputation as a fast-paced city, New York is also known for its green spaces. Central Park is an 843-acre oasis in the middle of Manhattan, and the city has more than 1,700 parks in total.
New York City is a fascinating and dynamic city that has something for everyone. From its iconic landmarks and world-class museums to its diverse food scene and bustling streets, there's always something new to discover. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the Big Apple!

If you're a tourist visiting New York City, one of the must-see destinations is Wall Street. Known as the financial center of the world, Wall Street has been the heart of global finance for centuries, and it's not just a street, it's a symbol of power, wealth, and influence. 
Its history dates back to the 17th century when the Dutch colonized Manhattan Island and built a wall to protect themselves from British invaders. The wall extended from the Hudson River to the East River and the street next to it became known as Wall Street. 
Despite its reputation as a center of finance and wealth, Wall Street has a dark history that includes the slave trade. During the 18th century, Wall Street was a slave trading marketplace and many financial institutions profited from the buying and selling of enslaved people.
In the early 19th century, both residences and businesses occupied the area, but increasingly business predominated, and it quickly became the financial center of the country. Wall Street saw unprecedented growth and became a symbol of American capitalism. Today, Wall Street remains the financial capital of the world and is home to some of the world's largest financial institutions, including investment banks, hedge funds, and private equity firms. These institutions help shape global markets and are responsible for managing trillions of dollars in assets. The street is also home to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the central bank of the United States responsible for implementing monetary policy and regulating financial institutions.
Despite its reputation as a center of finance and wealth, Wall Street has not been immune to controversy. It has been the site of numerous financial scandals over the years, including the collapse of the investment bank Lehman Brothers in 2008 and the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme. Wall Street has also faced criticism for its role in exacerbating income inequality and for prioritizing profits over social responsibility.
Despite these controversies, Wall Street remains a fascinating and essential destination for tourists visiting New York City. Whether you are interested in exploring the history of finance, visiting iconic landmarks, or simply people-watching in one of the world's busiest financial districts, Wall Street has something to offer everyone. With its bustling energy and rich history, it's easy to see why Wall Street continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Wall Street

Wall Street Sign (1-9)

CC BY-SA 3.0

Wall St.

CC BY 2.0

CC BY-SA 2.0

Las Vegas

Las Vegas offers everything you can imagine: from Michelin-starred restaurants and 24-hour wedding chapels to larger-than-life scenery and slot machines. But just when you think you've seen it all, Vegas surprises you. Take, for instance, Meow Wolf, an immersive experience blending theme park excitement with art gallery intrigue. Or consider the ice rink at the Cosmopolitan, bringing a touch of winter to the desert. And let's not forget about nature—venture beyond the Strip, and you'll discover state parks and breathtaking views aplenty at places like Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon. These hidden gems make Vegas a destination not just for partygoers but for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Bellagio stands as a quintessential landmark along the vibrant Las Vegas Strip, often regarded as its pulsating epicenter. Despite being one of the newer establishments, the Bellagio has swiftly garnered a stellar reputation, becoming a must-visit destination in Sin City. The Bellagio boasts a myriad of attractions, including Michelin-starred restaurants, a botanical garden, a conservatory, and a captivating gallery of fine art. Embracing its Italian namesake, the Bellagio exudes a sense of grandeur, enticing guests with its enchanting fountain shows choreographed to an eclectic array of songs.
The Bellagio's rich history traces back to real estate mogul Steve Wynn's visionary endeavors in the early 1990s. Formerly the site of the legendary Dunes hotel and casino, Wynn embarked on an ambitious project to redefine luxury on the Strip. Collaborating with Atlandia Design and esteemed architect DeRuyter Butler, Wynn unveiled the Bellagio, a modern homage to Italy's Lake Como town of the same name. Despite its hefty price tag, the Bellagio emerged as one of the most opulent hotels ever constructed upon its completion in May 1996.
Stepping inside the Bellagio is akin to entering a realm of opulence and sophistication. Designed by Roger Thomas, the interiors showcase exquisite craftsmanship, featuring granite countertops, marble statues, and a mesmerizing botanical garden adorned with blooms from across the globe. The hotel's lavish amenities continue to evolve, offering seasonal garden displays, captivating art exhibitions, and a renowned Poker Room that hosts prestigious events like the World Poker Tour.
The grand unveiling of the Bellagio in October 1998 was a lavish affair, marked by a star-studded celebration attended by luminaries such as Michael Jordan, Clint Eastwood, and Drew Barrymore. 
With its unparalleled luxury and world-class entertainment, the Bellagio epitomizes the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, promising an unforgettable experience for discerning travelers and entertainment enthusiasts alike.
This iconic establishment has left an indelible mark on the silver screen, featuring prominently in blockbuster films like the 2001 Ocean’s Eleven. Ocean’s Eleven producer Jerry Weintraub and Bellagio owner Steve Wynn were friends, so the production team got a 24-hour, all-areas pass to film there for five weeks. Among the locations featured in the film are the casino floor, botanical gardens, art gallery, Picasso restaurant, and the lobby with its colorful Dale Chihuly glass ceiling. 

Bellagio Hotel & Casino

Bellagio Casino at Night, Las Vegas

Bellagio, Las Vegas

DSC07321, Bellagio Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Bellagio Lobby

Chanel @ Bellagio

Las Vegas & Les Canyons

CC BY-ND 2.0

London

United Kingdom

London is the capital and largest city of the United Kingdom, with a population of over 8 million people. It is one of the most iconic and diverse cities in the world, known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant energy.
London is a city with a long and fascinating history, dating back to its founding by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. Throughout the centuries, it has played an important role in world events, from the Great Fire of London in 1666 to the Blitz during World War II.
Today, it is home to a wealth of cultural and historical landmarks that draw millions of tourists each year. Some of the most popular attractions include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and the London Eye.
In addition to its historical significance, the city is also a cultural hub, with a thriving art, music, and theater scene. The city is home to many world-class museums and galleries, including the Tate Modern, the National Gallery, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.
London is also known for its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the trendy streets of Shoreditch to the historic streets of Greenwich, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
London is a city that truly has it all – history, culture, diversity, and energy. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there is always something new to discover in this iconic city.

St James's Park is one of London's eight Royal Parks and one of the most iconic green spaces in the city. Spanning nearly 57 acres, the park is known for its stunning beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and rich history.
The park was once a marshy watermeadow, bordering on Whitehall to the west. In the thirteenth century, a leper hospital was founded, and it is from this hospital that the park took its name. King Henry VIII acquired the land in the 16th century, as a deer park and built the Palace of St James's.
It was redeveloped multiple times but it was Charles II who made the first dramatic changes. French-inspired avenues of trees were planted and lawns were laid, and the king opened the park to the public in the 17th century. He was a frequent visitor, entertaining guests, and mistresses, feeding the ducks, and mingling with his subjects. Charles II frequently played a French game, called 'pelle melle' in the park. The name of the game was immortalized by the wide processional route on the north side of the park called The Mall.
Bordered by some of London's most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Horse Guards Parade, and the Mall, the park has been a popular destination for Londoners and tourists alike ever since. 
The park we see today is essentially as John Nash remodeled it in the 19th century. Nash changed the design of the original canal to create a gently curving lake and the straight avenues were replaced with winding paths, creating a romantic space.
One of the highlights of St James's Park is its stunning lake, which is home to a variety of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, and swans. Crossing the lake is the Blue Bridge, which offers magnificent views towards Buckingham Palace, Whitehall, and the London Eye. 
The park is also home to a range of beautifully landscaped gardens, including the park’s famous flower beds at the front of Buckingham Palace, which are a familiar backdrop to pageants including Trooping the Colour, as well as state visits and other ceremonial occasions.
St James's Park is also known for its famous pelicans, which have been a fixture of the park since the 17th century when a colony of pelicans was given to Charles II by the Russian ambassador.  The gift started a custom, and even today ambassadors to the UK frequently give the gift of a pelican to the park. They are fed by the park's staff every day at 2:30 pm, much to the delight of visitors.
The park also hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual London Marathon, which passes through the park, and the St James's Park Food Festival, which showcases the best of British cuisine and local produce.
St James's Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of London. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and range of attractions and activities, the park offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or a vibrant cultural experience, St James's Park has something for everyone.

St James Park

Chicago

Chicago offers the bustling atmosphere of a big city, yet its welcoming locals and pedestrian-friendly layout give it a cozy and approachable feel. 
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago was officially established as a city in 1837, strategically positioned near a portage connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River watershed. Experiencing rapid growth during the mid-19th century, the city faced a devastating setback in 1871 when the Great Chicago Fire ravaged several square miles, displacing over 100,000 residents. Despite this tragedy, Chicago's population continued to soar.
Throughout its history, Chicago has made significant contributions to urban planning and architecture, notably through the Chicago School, the City Beautiful Movement, and the innovation of the steel-framed skyscraper.
Immerse yourself in the iconic architecture that defines Chicago or indulge in its diverse culinary scene. During the spring and summer, take advantage of leisurely days by the lake or relaxing picnics in one of Chicago's numerous parks. 

The Bean ranks among Chicago's most beloved attractions. This monumental artwork serves as the anchor of downtown Millennium Park, capturing the essence of the city's iconic skyline and the lush surrounding greenery. 
Officially known as Cloud Gate, this sculpture is one of the globe's largest permanent outdoor art installations. Unveiled in 2004, this monumental masterpiece swiftly claimed its place among Chicago's most iconic landmarks.
The inspiration for The Bean's gleaming surface came from the liquid mercury, offering mesmerizing reflections of park-goers, the vibrant lights of Michigan Avenue, and the encompassing urban landscape and verdant surroundings—a true embodiment of the Millennium Park experience. Its polished exterior invites visitors to engage, encouraging them to touch the surface and contemplate their own reflections, infusing the artwork with an interactive quality.
Anish Kapoor, the internationally acclaimed artist behind Cloud Gate, chose to name the sculpture as such due to the captivating reflections of the sky and the park beneath its curved underside. Kapoor, an Indian-born British sculptor known for his large-scale outdoor works with highly reflective surfaces, crafted this masterpiece as his first permanent public outdoor installation in the United States, securing its status as his magnum opus. 
Although the artwork is formally known as Cloud Gate, Anish Kapoor typically assigns titles to his creations post-completion. During the construction phase, architectural renderings of the design were made available to the public. It was during this time that Chicagoans glimpsed the curved, oblong structure and promptly adopted the endearing nickname "The Bean," which has since become inseparable from its identity.
The exterior of The Bean consists entirely of stainless steel. Computer technology meticulously cut 168 massive steel plates, which were seamlessly assembled and welded shut, ensuring a flawless finish. The sculpture's interior comprises two substantial metal rings connected by a truss framework, resembling that of a bridge, expertly distributing the structure's substantial weight to its two base points, creating the iconic "bean" shape and allowing for the vast concave area beneath.
To adapt to changing weather conditions, The Bean's steel exterior connects to the inner frame through flexible connectors, allowing for expansion and contraction. Standing at 33 feet in height, 42 feet in width, and 66 feet in length, it tips the scales at approximately 110 tons—equivalent to the weight of about 15 adult elephants. 

The Bean

Not A Scandal About Clouds

The Bean - Cloud Gate

Atlanta

Atlanta has earned various titles, including the "capital of the new South" and "the next international city," and it's hailed as an excellent place for business. Fueled by the success of local giants like Coca Cola and Holiday Inn, the city's vibrancy was further amplified by hosting the 1996 Summer Olympic Games and the influx of young, ambitious individuals. Atlanta is thriving, offering a range of world-class restaurants, cultural attractions, lively nightlife, and abundant sporting events, making it cosmopolitan in every aspect. Despite its modernity, Atlanta has preserved its historical charm, evident in places like the Atlanta History Center, the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Site, and the former home of renowned author Margaret Mitchell. For those interested in presidential history, the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum provides insights into the life of the former president and his family. Whether indulging in modern urban pursuits or savoring old southern delights, Atlanta promises a satisfying experience.

Swan House, designed by Philip Trammell Shutze in 1928 for Edward and Emily Inman, holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Edward Inman, an Atlanta businessman with interests in various sectors, inherited a substantial cotton brokerage fortune post-Civil War. Alongside him, Emily was active in philanthropy, politics, and society. Employing the architectural firm of Hentz, Reid, and Adler in 1924, they commissioned the design of the residence.
Renowned architect Philip Trammell Shutze crafted Swan House and its gardens, showcasing his prowess in blending Italian and English classical styles with 20th-century living standards. A cascading fountain is flanked by double staircases, leading to the awe-inspiring Italian Mannerist façade. At its center, the central doorway, crowned by a heavy, segmented pediment, is flanked by niches on the first floor. Ascending above the cornice of the western façade is an Italian attic extension, embellished with a circular window. The entrance façade, typically viewed as the rear of the property, displays an English Palladian-inspired two-story portico, characterized by four massive columns supporting a substantial entablature and triangular pediment.
Moving into their new home in 1928, the Inmans experienced the onset of the Great Depression just a year later.  Tragically, Edward Inman passed away at the age of 49, leaving Emily with her son Hugh, his wife Mildred, and their children.
Emily continued to live in Swan House until her death at 84 in 1965. The Atlanta Historical Society acquired the property in 1966, along with its original furnishings spanning centuries. Opening its doors to the public in 1967, Swan House serves as both a house museum and the headquarters of the Atlanta Historical Society.
The Swan House served as one of several Georgia-based settings featured in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Mockingjay: Part 1, the house was President Snow’s mansion.
Visitors can embark on the Capitol Tour experience, which offers a guided exploration of Swan House, highlighting the very rooms immortalized in the movie's production.

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