Category Archives: Philadelphia
The 2016 Philadelphia Marathon
Rounding Logan Square/ H. Novak
The annual Philadelphia Marathon took place on Saturday, November 19. I live with three other friends in a hall group—that is, we occupy four comfortable rooms next to one another. My wonderful hall-mate Carissa, who is also my hell mom, had been training for weeks and weeks . . . and weeks. I have never been the athletic type, but I admire anyone who has the devotion and drive and patience to run. I was simply in awe of Carissa’s endurance in running a half marathon. (Plus, besides training for the marathon, she bikes from Bryn Mawr to her UPenn classes in Philly!)
The 2016 Presidential Election
I thought this would be a very different post, but things did not turn out the way I envisioned. I think it is safe to say that things did not turn out the way many envisioned. Here is a documentation of my experience before and after the 2016 presidential election.
Hand-Drawn Noodles, Anyone?
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House and Spice C
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House/ M. Ye
My friend says she goes to Chinatown whenever she needs a “taste of home.” Steaming hand-drawn noodles, stir-fried vegetables, roast pork buns, hot pot . . . Chinatown has it all. How glad I am that Philadelphia is a city with a Chinatown! Fresh noodles are not common in our everyday cuisine. They are difficult to acquire and even more difficult to make.
The Reading Viaduct
Color/ M. Ye
Philadelphia has many secrets hidden in the open. Naturally, tourists always rush for the Independence Mall sights. However, once you have checked the Liberty Bell off your to-do list, the possibilities are endless.
Miel
Espresso on espresso/ H. Novak
I find that the best way to get off campus while still being productive is to go to a coffee shop, homework in tow. One of the most elegant destinations would probably be the French café Miel (French for honey). Fittingly, the café is a honey color, with bee door handles and honeycomb patterns throughout.
Farmer’s Keep
Food by sunlight/ H. Novak
Philadelphia—the city with an unlimited array of restaurants. . . . But where to start? Something quick? Something fancy? Something relaxing? Philadelphia has it all. It is best to explore and stumble upon a little hole-in-the-wall restaurant. You may be surprised. But, yes, Yelp and Trip Advisor are helpful.
The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
The Grand Staircase/ H. Novak
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Wonderland/ H. Novak
The Last Drop
Philadelphia aesthetic/ H. Novak
There are many ways to cross Philadelphia if you are heading from the Rittenhouse Square area to the Old City. Chestnut Street and Walnut Street are among the most common routes. They are always bustling with people and filled with activities. If you wanted something a little quieter—a stroll after lunch, perhaps—go for Pine Street.