Linda Suskie

Very cool to see the headwaters of the Mississippi River start as a creek flowing out of Lake Itasca. Quite a few people visiting here in late June. In the 1930s stones were added so you can walk across. When we visited, the water was high, the rocks slippery, and those walking across got wet. Note that some creeks flow into Lake Itasca, and some argue that one of them should be considered the Mississippi River headwaters (and at least one is so marked on Google Maps), but these are the generally accepted headwaters and certainly the most fun.

One of our favorite meals during our 6-night stay in Paris. Food and service were wonderful. Unlike some bistros we ate at, the tables were spaced far apart enough that we could have a conversation. But the setting was a highlight. The art nouveau interior is beautifully restored/preserved. Perfect setting for a Paris dinner.

An essential stop for fans of Monet and his water lilies paintings. We got tickets in advance for opening time and we were able to enter quickly and, as you can see, it wasn't very crowded. By the time we left, lines and crowds were far longer. The museum has a interesting collection of post-Impressionists that is worth seeing. Note; We had planned to take a break at the cafe, but it is small, with limited seating, and no seats were available when we stopped by.

An essential American experience even if, or especially if, you're not a country music fan. Several blocks of music venues, most with the band right in front of an open window. Of course most bands are country, but there's plenty of rock too. Excellent people watching, and the best collection of neon signs I've ever seen. Note: We visited on Tuesday, and it was really busy. I can't imagine what it's like on Saturdays!

Well worth seeing during a visit to the Tower of London. This was a prison, and the carved graffiti left by the prisoners is fascinating--nothing like today's graffiti.