Day Trip: Hey Lil Philly!

Mushroom Cheesesteak Sandwich

I don’t know what to make out of yesterday’s venture. Vickson and I did a one day trip to Philly. In fact, we left Bmore at 5.30am and arrived two hours later in time for breakfast at John’s Roast Pork. The meat portion inside the sandwich had a blessed three-way with the spinach and sharp cheese; the intermingling of those flavors had me stomping in approval. Still not a morning person, but I did a showdown on half the sub within twn minutes. Panda had the cheesesteak, a classic Philly icon. The best I’ve had, nuff said. Just so you know, we split half to trade. That way we’ll have tried both, smart eh? Will definitely be back whenever I’m in town.

Philadelphia City Hall

I’ll say this. As much as Philly is just another American city, it’s one with its own charms. I fell in love with the architecture of skyscrapers and historical buildings as they intermingle in brotherly love. The moment we drove into the city, the city hall stood out (with its Greek features casted in forms of columns) welcoming with arms open as we continue to stare at it, eyes-wide. At 8am, we parked the car at a garage nearby. Scored the $10 early bird price, so as long as we take out the car by 7pm. That would meant sufficient amount of explore time. I was washed away from sleepiness thanks to the smells of coffee and bagels.

First stop: Love Park. Tis too bad I ain't here with a boyfriend. I can hear you from the other side of the screen, giggling at my statement. What is Vickson then? A friend, guys. Just a friend. :)

When you’re in Philly, you have to come say hi to the Liberty Bell. This bell with its crack in the middle has plenty to smile about, for it’s a local celebrity. People lined up for 15 minutes or more for a photo with this old man. Located strategically, all historical buildings are within walking distance. A pleasant stroll along Arch Street soon found us surrounded by tourists and scouts.

I did the exact pose as the big man here, much to many's amusement.

After visiting the Independence Hall, we shoved our rumps back into Chinatown. Main objective: Malaysian food at the Banana Leaf. Had curry mee, yong tau foo, hainanese chicken rice, and kangkung belacan. Good ol comfort food to make the trip even more worth its while. I ish approve this place! Shortly before departing to South Street, I did a little shopping for some Japanese candies and baby sized mooncakes. It’s the Autumn Festival soon chya know?

Magic Gardens: A different kind of Wonderland

You absolutely have to come to this place! Tis a magical art wonder situated closely to the Antique Row, and the only attraction of the day that we forked out for admission. In a way, I still felt that the seven bucks goes to its maintenance, which I’ll gladly give for the amount of joy the place gave us. The Magic Garden has mosaic of broken pots, bottles and anything thinkable (or not) brilliantly designed by Isaiah Zagar. He was absent at our time of arrival. No matter, totally had fun taking pictures here. No wishing well though, much to Vickson’s dismay. Better luck next place bud!

Unfortunately for the time, we weren’t able to go see the Eastern State Penitentiary. Perhaps another good reason to be back here soon, with no traffic, no crazy GPS antics, and more friends. 

Spent lots,
Vonnie S.