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| © Photo: Bianca Mitchell |
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| © Photo: Bianca Mitchell |
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| © Photo: Bianca Mitchell |
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| © Photo: Bianca Mitchell |
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| © Photo: Bianca Mitchell |
SNAPSHOTS: FALL INTO PARIS
Paris in the Fall is SO beautiful. Take a peek at my Prippie Paris travels:
- Bianca Jane Mitchell
PRIP TRIP: NEW ORLEANS, LA
A Four- Day Adventure in NOLA
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St. Charles Street, NOLA |
March 4- Mardi Gras
Stationed in Uptown, we had a great view of the parades, and as a first timer to Mardi Gras, it was essential to find a front row spot. The various parades are put on by krewes, or historic (for the most part) social clubs. Imitating European royalty, each krewe has a ranking structure of king, queen, dukes, knights, and captains. While there are several parades in a day, there is usually one main parade that at night. We caught the end of the Hermes parade and stayed for Krew d’Etat and Morpheus, the biggest parade of the day. All of these parades followed a similar route in Uptown, so we were able to stay in the same spot for each one, which happened to be the perfect spot for catching beads! No flashing was necessary, just a little yelling, some pointing, and eye catching does the trick.
While you are in New Orleans, whether it is for Mardi Gras or any other time of the year, you should definitely take advantage of the night life -- there is always something to do! We went to a new club in the Lower Garden District called Eiffel Society, which is a museum, bar, and music venue. The night we went the three local bands played, my favorite being a dub step band!
While you are in New Orleans, whether it is for Mardi Gras or any other time of the year, you should definitely take advantage of the night life -- there is always something to do! We went to a new club in the Lower Garden District called Eiffel Society, which is a museum, bar, and music venue. The night we went the three local bands played, my favorite being a dub step band!
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Mardi Gras Beads! |
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Eiffel Society, NOLA |
March 5- Food, Music and Fun
The next day we went to parkway bakery to experience a true po’boy. Parkway Bakery is an institution in New Orleans
Note to self—there is no such thing as a “quick bite” during Mardi Gras season. Expect lines and crowds wherever you go. All I can say is it was well worth the wait. Erin and Lauren got the classic fried shrimp po’boy. I got a po’boy with ham and cheese- tres francaise, and not so new Orleans
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Shrimp Po'boy at Parkway Bakery |
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Sweet Potato Fries at Parkway Bakery |
That night we hit the local favorite spot of Frenchmen street Bourbon Street
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Frenchmen Street |
With that taken care of, we quickly made our way back to Frenchmen where we ended up staying to watch the band Naughty Professor at Maison. If you ever get a chance to listen to the guys, make sure you take advantage of the opportunity. They were great—a really young, energetic soul band with an awesome brass section. One great thing about this time of year in New Orleans
March 6- Around Town
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The French Market, NOLA |
We ventured to the French Market Sunday morning. Sitting a few blocks from the French Quarter, the market is full of everything you can imagine: Mardi Gras beads and masks (of course), handmade candles (http://www.frenchquartercandles.com/), seasonings and spices, fresh produce and food stands, trinkets and jewelry.
Nearby, Aunt Sally’s Pralines (the best of New Orleans
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Aunt Sally's Pralines |
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Cafe Beignet |
That night, we ate at the Dat Dog. We discovered the small food stand when we were parking for the parade. Luckily, Dat Dog offers just about every type of meat (including alligator sausage) that you could put on a hot dog bun. The golden brown fries were the perfect side. Again, the staff was friendly and entertaining, and the owner sat down with us to eat outside! This was definitely a deliciously satisfying and quick option before heading down to the parade.
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Dat Dog Menu |
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Dinner at Dat Dog, NOLA |
The first parade we went to was Endymion, the main parade on Sunday. Endymion is always known for their celebrity grand marshals, and this year’s hosts were Kelly Ripa and Anderson Cooper!
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Paparazzi at Mardi Gras! Parade host, Anderson Cooper. |
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Lauren Cleans up Mardi Gras style. |
I couldn’t have asked for a better schedule! I had a lot of energy and was ready to catch some beads (in my yelling/pointing/eye catching ways). I quickly became friends with a family next to me and out bead catching became a team effort! No one was going home empty handed – in fact, we each had two shopping bags full!
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Bead catching team |
March 7- Last Day? Just Kidding
We began our last full day by walking up and down Magazine Street
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Ms. Mae's |
We made our way down to the Uptown institution of Ms. Maes- a 24- hour bar on the corner of Magazine and Napoleon. Due to the graces of the open container law, we took our bloody marys and mimosas down to “the fly”—short for the butterfly, the riverside portion of Audubon Park
We spent our last night back on Bourbon Street
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Bourbon Street, NOLA |
March 8- The Treasured Coconut
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The Zulu Parade |
We couldn’t leave NOLA without attending the Zulu parade, which is known for its most treasured throw, the coconut. Each member of the Zulu social club decorates coconuts throughout the year, and they are a rare catch because you usually have to know someone in the parade to get one. However, after many unsuccessful attempts of telling the parade members I was new to Mardi Gras, my effort of staying with a float for quite some time paid off, and I came away with a coconut! There couldn’t have been a better way to end the parade! In fact, on our way back home, there were several parade floats handing out beads on the highway. Dangerous? Yes, but it could only happen in New Orleans
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Parade float handing out Beads on the Highway |
PRIPPIE™ TRAVELER: LONDON
London: Where Preppy and Hippie Fall in Love
This weekend, while watching “Shakespeare in Love”, I became fascinated by the rich history and romance of the city of London and its blend of Elizabethan-era charm, with modern style and pace. The home of writers, artists, models, and musician, London holds a myriad of attractions for lovers of the Bard, Kate Moss, or the Beatles. It also is also a legendary intersection of both preppy Polo spirit (think Prince William in a match) and the bohemian avant-garde art scene. For my first visit to the great city I was sixteen years old and overwhelmed by the charged bustle of Victoria Station, the majesty of Big Ben, the House of Parliament overlooking the Thames, and the picturesque vision of brick row houses, with white Georgian columns and wrought-iron fences. I noticed how art infiltrates London"s atmosphere as it boasts some of the world’s finest collections housed in the National Gallery, the Tate Britain, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria & Albert, to name a few. London itself is a multi-faceted work of art, full of countless cabinets of wonder waiting to be discovered, a phenomena best described by the immortal neoclassical poet and critic Dr. Samuel Johnson: “He who tires of London tires of life.”
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| London's West End Photo Credit: Kenwilsoneltfiles.wordpress.com |
This weekend, while watching “Shakespeare in Love”, I became fascinated by the rich history and romance of the city of London and its blend of Elizabethan-era charm, with modern style and pace. The home of writers, artists, models, and musician, London holds a myriad of attractions for lovers of the Bard, Kate Moss, or the Beatles. It also is also a legendary intersection of both preppy Polo spirit (think Prince William in a match) and the bohemian avant-garde art scene. For my first visit to the great city I was sixteen years old and overwhelmed by the charged bustle of Victoria Station, the majesty of Big Ben, the House of Parliament overlooking the Thames, and the picturesque vision of brick row houses, with white Georgian columns and wrought-iron fences. I noticed how art infiltrates London"s atmosphere as it boasts some of the world’s finest collections housed in the National Gallery, the Tate Britain, the Tate Modern, and the Victoria & Albert, to name a few. London itself is a multi-faceted work of art, full of countless cabinets of wonder waiting to be discovered, a phenomena best described by the immortal neoclassical poet and critic Dr. Samuel Johnson: “He who tires of London tires of life.”
Having an idea of predetermined “must-see” destinations is essential to making your London experience memorable and manageable. Organized bus tours are fantastic sightseeing options, and especially time-efficient, while still hitting the major districts. Prippie™ travel recommends riding on the top tier of the bus like a true Londoner, complete with wind-swept hair! However, if you decide to venture out on your own, take advantage of the Prippie™ London Calling list, directing you to our favorite hangouts!
1. HYDE PARK:
Mingle with the locals in this beautiful green expanse, which graces the heart of the city. Runners, dog-walkers, businessmen on Bluetooths, mothers and children, lovers, geese-feeding old women— Hyde Park people-watching is a great way to get in the London groove while staving off jet-lag, making it an ideal first-day activity.
2.TRAFALGAR SQUARE:
Host to two of London’s finest art museums, the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery. These bastions of British culture contain amazing collections of the Italian Renaissance painters, French impressionists, Dutch masters, as well as the portraits of the legendary Tudor monarchs. The Square itself is a spectacle, with the pillar of Lord Nelson overlooking a giant fountain guarded by two classical lions. Note the hipster kids and skaters also adorning the scene.
3. HARROD'S:
Arguably the world’s most unique and exquisitely decorated department store, Harrod's is located in London’s classy Knightsbridge shopping district. It is the go-to place for Versace evening gowns, antique pool tables, tourist teddy bears, and everything in between. If your budget is limited due to the appalling exchange rate, simply grab a teatime scone at the food court, while marveling at the elaborate seafood sculptures or equally as elaborate passers-by. Finally, ride the escalator up and down all seven levels. It is here you will experience the splendor of Egypt and the face of the stores former owner, Mohamed Al-Fayed, as it is installed in Pharaoh’s headdresses throughout the corridor. At the bottom of the escalator lies the most unexpected find of all: a creepy yet fascinating shrine to the love affair of Princess Diana and Mohamed’s son Dodi , complete with a moldy champagne glass and supposed engagement ring preserved in cut glass.
4. THE TOWER OF LONDON:
The execution spot of Braveheart, the unfortunate wives of Henry VIII, Thomas Cromwell, Guy Fawkes (think V for Vendetta)…need I go on? This historical gold mine holds grotesquely fascinating and romantic displays such as medieval armor, torture racks, and dark Romanesque architecture. For those less morbidly inclined, however, the treasure of the Tower literally is a treasure: the royal Crown Jewels have been stored there since the 14th century, offering a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see the very crowns that have graced the royal family for centuries. Look to the center of the Tower green for the glass pillow, that marks the exact location where so many souls lost their heads…
5.THE WEST END:
After a depressing day at the Tower of London, head to the city’s vibrant West End for a night at the theater. Les Miserables, Lion King, The Phantom of the Opera—with such excellent choices, and equally pleasing venues, the problem becomes deciding which one to see. Two years ago, on my most recent visit to London, I was fortunate enough to see a production of Waiting for Godot with Sir Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart, two truly brilliant actors who made this theatrical masterpiece come alive. The audience of the Haymarket Theater went wild with existential excitement and applause.
-Anna Marie Armistead, Staff Writer
PRIP TRIP: NORTH BAY, CA
North Bay, California: A day trip through Salsalito, Muir Woods, Stinson Beach and Treasure Island.
Upon moving in San Francisco, I was told repeatedly to get out of the city as much as possible. Man am I happy I listened. The city is great, don't get me wrong. There are endless things to do within this seven mile by seven mile peninsula, but aside from those chilly days on the beach, you tend to lose touch with nature. So in order to reconnect with Mother Earth, I would highly recommend a trip to the North Bay. Laying so unassumingly across the Golden Gate bridge is a virtually untapped region of redwood trees and the most outrageous views imaginable. I made this adventure a solo trip, which was even more memorable, regardless of the awful self-timer pictures that came from it.
The trouble with this trip is that it requires a car. Lucky for me, I have one. Lucky for you, Yelp offers some sweet deals on zipcars. Keep an eye out, and take advantage of them whenever you can. It is totally worth it.
After crossing the Golden Gate and paying that god-awful toll, you are immediately put into a little town called Salsalito. Take the road to the left that sends you winding your way up the side of a hill. Find a parking spot, and take in the most breathtaking view of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge possible. Once you've gotten your photos in, say goodbye to the city for the day, and start making your way to Muir Woods.
Muir Woods National Monument is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and a highly visited destination along the Mount Tamalpais Mill Valley Scenic Road. The 559 acres of land encompass hundreds of massive redwood trees, making for an impossible breathtaking walk through nature. Silence is required in many parts of the walk, allowing for patrons to take in the mystical sounds of nature. On the way out, be sure to hit up the cafe and speak with the cute barista. All the oxygen in the woods will get you light-headed enough to strike up a conversation, hopefully leading to a free coffee - which you will definitely need, considering this day is only half over.
From Muir woods, continue out the windy road toward Stinson beach. It's a gorgeous sight to see, coming out of the overgrown red woods, and looking at the waves crashing along the cliff side. I parked my car overlooking the beach, and propped myself up on the hood, where I enjoyed the picnic lunch I had packed for myself - Brie, Avocado, Red Onions, Spinach and Sprouts on a Baguette and orange slices on the side - and then continued down to the water so I could dip my toes in the Pacific. I only stayed long enough to get caught gawking at the surfers that occupy the water before making my way around the bay.
My last stop on this long gorgeous day trip was Treasure Island. In order to get there, you have to wind your way from North Bay down to Oakland and cross the Oakland Bay Bridge. Treasure Island is the half way point between Oakland and San Francisco and provides the most spectacular place to watch the sunset. Watching the sun dip beneath the horizon, with my toes dangling into the Bay, I found myself living the Otis Redding Song - Sitting on the Dock of the Bay. But really, if there is a better place to be caught wasting time, I'd like to hear about it.
So there it is, your escape from the city. I always find that making plans limits room for opportunity, so hop in a car and let the wind blow you where it may.
-Chelsea Byers, Staff Writer
chelseabyers@prippie.com
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| View from Salsalito Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
The trouble with this trip is that it requires a car. Lucky for me, I have one. Lucky for you, Yelp offers some sweet deals on zipcars. Keep an eye out, and take advantage of them whenever you can. It is totally worth it.
After crossing the Golden Gate and paying that god-awful toll, you are immediately put into a little town called Salsalito. Take the road to the left that sends you winding your way up the side of a hill. Find a parking spot, and take in the most breathtaking view of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge possible. Once you've gotten your photos in, say goodbye to the city for the day, and start making your way to Muir Woods.
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| Muir Woods Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
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| Bohemian Grove in Muir Woods Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
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| Stinson Beach Picnic Spot Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
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| Sunset at Treasure Island Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
-Chelsea Byers, Staff Writer
chelseabyers@prippie.com
PRIP TRIP: HAIGHT ASHBURY, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
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| Haight Ashbury Landmark Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
[Day] Trippin' in the Haight
As any true flower child should, I felt it absolutely necessary to pay homage to Haight Ashbury. My own personal hajj to this not-so-holy land included just two bus rides and a short walk. I can assure you that I have, and will be making this pilgrimage multiple times.
Noted and revered for the role it played in the 1960s hippie movement, the Haight is a haven for the left-over, rock and roll, drug culture hippie burn-outs, providing an interesting dynamic for an afternoon stroll. The Haight Ashbury district, named for the intersection of Haight Street and Ashbury Street, encompasses more than ten blocks of stores, coffee shops, and restaurants, and draws hundreds to the streets daily.
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| The walls in Haight Ashbury are very colorful and vibrant, echoing the life of the district. Photo Credit: Chelsea Byers |
Between the beads, the tie dye and the endless shelves of hippie memorabilia, getting lost in the shops of the Haight is an adventure in itself. More than once I have found myself seemingly trapped in one of many vintage clothing shops, scrambling to find the means to purchase a hand-crafted piece of hippie couture from the flower days that I cannot live without. Thankfully, the selection of second-hand stores is to die for. Crossroads (a SF favorite) and Buffalo Exchange are just a few that I have found myself rummaging through. While I haven't found the gall to splurge, I have yet to leave the Haight without a new bumper sticker proclaiming "Peace and Love" or "Make Art Not War" for the car that I do not have in the city. Pointless as my purchases may be, I am always satisfied.
When I need to catch a second wind, the Haight provides many options for a cup of Jo. Coffee to the People, and the People's Cafe are amongst the best, both providing a relaxing space to chill out. Despite its small land space, the Haight can get overwhelming between the amounts of people in the streets, all the things to look at, and all the places to spend your money. Though it is nothing compared to its peak in the 60s (I say it like I was there), the Haight exists as a tribute to all things peaceful and loving. You bring your love to the Haight, and go to the Haight to love. It's that simple.
-Chelsea Byers, Staff Writer
PRIPPIE™ TRAVELER: BANGALORE, INDIA
Temporarily separated from Meg, Paulina and I found ourselves hanging with our random new host friend. His less than exciting house party more resembled an art opening’s wine and cheese reception on a budget. The music was barely audible and guests sat around a table, simply staring with little conversation. When a group of individuals appeared at the door, my hopes for the party rose. But they slowly declined as I watched the house owner turn them away. Meg’s face mysteriously appeared at the door. I thought she had gone home and I was glad to see her here. We agreed that this wasn’t our scene and decided to forfeit the night. Luck was on our side, we left just in time. As soon as we turned the corner from the house, the Indian police showed up to shut things down. The party was over, for now.
Bangalore, India . A respite. An oasis. A city of dreams.
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| A temple in the streets of Bangalore Photo Credit: Tareq Alani |
Okay, maybe it’s not exactly that. But to my friends and me, the city felt that way, as we embarked on a much-needed vacation away from school. A week of eating great food, hanging out at some awesome bars and clubs, and spending most of our money, was topped off by the adventure of our final night.
The evening started with dinner at the Hard Rock Café, a special occasion for two reasons:
1) It was voted the best Hard Rock franchise in 2010
2) Cheeseburgers!
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| Bangalore at night Photo Credit: Tareq Alani |
A cheeseburger may not sound that interesting, but if you’ve ever been to India Bangalore
Guest list? Cover? No worries. Paulina and Meg used their charm to get us in for free. The party atmosphere was complete with a pool, dance floor, great music, a mix of foreigners and locals, and people jumping fully clothed into the water. As we mingled with partygoers, we each found someone to chat with. Meg spoke with the aforementioned Brazilians. Paulina, tired of always having to speak English, was excited to converse in Polish and Italian (her first and second languages). We were enjoying ourselves, but with the 11:30 pm deadline approaching we were determined to keep the party going. I befriended the host, who invited us to an after party. From here, things got a bit strange.
Temporarily separated from Meg, Paulina and I found ourselves hanging with our random new host friend. His less than exciting house party more resembled an art opening’s wine and cheese reception on a budget. The music was barely audible and guests sat around a table, simply staring with little conversation. When a group of individuals appeared at the door, my hopes for the party rose. But they slowly declined as I watched the house owner turn them away. Meg’s face mysteriously appeared at the door. I thought she had gone home and I was glad to see her here. We agreed that this wasn’t our scene and decided to forfeit the night. Luck was on our side, we left just in time. As soon as we turned the corner from the house, the Indian police showed up to shut things down. The party was over, for now.
A half an hour later, there I was. In my room, awake, still excited for what I thought was going to be a long and exciting night. I pondered the culture I had just experienced and I realized something. The night and the gathering were much different and less crazy than I expected. Bangalore , however, proved its reputation as India
-Tareq Alani, Guest Writer
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| Roaming the streets of Bangalore Photo Credit: Tareq Alani |
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