Portland, Maine

Frankfurt am Main

Christmas Market

Boca Raton, Florida

 

About Sushi

This is how sushi platter should look like. Many Korean-run (and Chinese and Thai-run) sushi restaurants have sprung up in the U.S., but the quality tend to be bland and mediocre, especially at buffet restaurants. Some stand out, as this one, with emphasis on fresh sashimi and detailed presentation. Matsu Sushi in Centreville, VA.

Ramen for Lunch in D.C.

The noodle is instant Korean ramyeon with spicy broth, but there are generous toppings -- choice of meat, fresh vegetables, and boiled egg. $9 at Axian.

More Hors d'oeuvre Creations

New "Pale Blue Dot" -- Earth and Moon Seen from Saturn

The tiny blue dot is Earth, seen from Saturn by the Cassini space probe, 900 million miles away, on July 19, 2013. A close-up photo below shows Earth and Moon together.

New Orleans

A night scene in the French Quarter -- the cityscape is as colorful and vibrant as its music and food.

  Che sighting in a New Orleans store

 

Brooklyn / Manhattan Bridges

The Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building in the background.

The lower Manhattan skyline with the Twin Towers missing.

The Brooklyn Bridge, one of the oldest suspension bridges in America, was completed in 1883. The designer, a German immigrant, died during the construction. His son took over, but became ill due to the construction, and the project was finally finished by his son's wife.

This area is called DUMBO -- Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass, filled with small restaurants and shops.

Santa Barbara, California

The old Spanish colonial influence in California can be seen in architectural styles, as in this Santa Barbara Mission.

Chicago