The missed flight saga… 

It was my first trip to the United States. I’d made plans, chalked out the itinerary, and exchanged U.S. dollars. As excited as I was about the solo trip, however, the world had other plans for me. Welcome to the saga of my missed flight.

All About Pittsburgh

(Image via Flickr by Always Shooting)

Planning a vacation is the best thing on Earth. The preparations, packing, and excitement surrounding the planning process make your heart beat faster as you approach the travel date. When you’re denied entry, however, your dreams come crashing down.

My trip to Pittsburgh would have been my second solo trip, and I was really excited. I wanted to do it all, including spending time at the Pittsburgh Zoo, admiring recycled art at Randyland, looping around the Bicycle Heaven, taking pictures with Dippy the Dinosaur, attending an ongoing performing arts extravaganza, and watching Kaufmann’s Clock go tick-tock.

But I was late. Do I blame the alarm, my phone, or just myself?

Top Five Things I Dreamt of Doing

(Image via Flickr by Alexander Day)

A friend who had lived in Pittsburgh previously helped me plan my stay. After choosing a hotel that offers the best views and easy access to the central market, clubs, and shopping and dining areas, here are the top five things I dreamt of doing.

1. Museums

My first day in a new city normally begins with a visit to the museum. This helps me gain firsthand knowledge about the culture and roots of the city. My plan was to go museum-hopping on days one and two, including the six-story Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Carnegie Museum of National History, and Henry Clay Frick’s car and art collection at the Frick Art and Historical Center.

2. Churches

A visit to these intricate structures is a must. My plan was to stop by and admire the beautiful architecture and woodwork of St. Paul Cathedral, Heinz Memorial Chapel, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, and Saint Anthony Chapel.

3. Interesting Tours

I’d planned to set aside a day for some biking, kayaking, and walking tours of the city. Incorporating a food and wine or bus tour would also be a fun way to get an overview of the city and imbibe the flavours of Pennsylvania.

4. City Skyline

My friend advised taking the Duquesne Incline, which provides a quick commute and beautiful views of the city by day or night. The Monongahela Incline was also something I would have opted to experience if I’d had the time.

5. Food Mapping

(Image via Flickr by brittreints)

Exploring the best food in a city is a priority for most food lovers, so I researched the best eats in town. I wanted to try Conflict Kitchen, which serves delicacies from places in conflict with the United States, fuel my bread and meat craving with a massive sandwich from Primanti Bros., get my burrito fix at The Gobblerito, and wind up with a dessert at Prantl’s Bakery. The list goes on.

Ultimately, I learnt a life lesson. Not everything goes as planned. There will be setbacks and disappointments, but life goes on. Now there are two alarms in my room, one by the bedside and one on the cabinet.

Have you visited Pittsburgh? How was your experience? Help me experience it vicariously.

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