Trying to See The Gardens of Villa d’Este

Public fountain near a children’s park.

Well, we tried. But, the line was too long for my liking. Instead, we enjoyed the boardwalk along the panoramic view over the plains, and we caught a glimpse of the edge of the Villa d’Este gardens. That will be enough for me. I will enjoy the online photos.

Public fountain near the parking area.

We also enjoyed the fountains that were in the public bathroom park.

In the center of the photo is the edge of Villa d’Este.

We also enjoyed getting out of Tivoli. There are too many tourists and this is just spring. Wait till the summer!

The line to get in to Villa d’Este.

In looking for parking, we had a nice drive (the driver shudders) through the center of Tivoli. Cute. Just like so many other Italian towns.

The center of Tivoli.

There is actually a hotel in the middle of the Villa d’Este gardens. I wonder how nice that would be to stay in?

Dating in the Desh

Courtship, Bangladeshi style.

Bangladesh is a crowded country so getting away from the madding crowd for a quiet “date” with someone you are courting or being courted by… is somewhat a matter of real estate. Famous Lalbagh Fort, considered a mini Taj Mahal, looks quite different from what is shown on the Amazing Race TV show, but it is worth visiting. There is a mausoleum built by a grieving father, a harem with baths, sweet smelling flowers, and a 300-year-old pool. Interestingly, what makes the fort so attractive is not the tomb, pool, or harem. In a crowded country, the walkways and niches provide a private place in a public space for young Bangladeshi couples to court. This a romantic place and there must be something in the air.

Lalbagh Fort’s mausoleum to two daughters.

Love rocks!

Courting Deshi couples wait outside the gate for the Fort to open.

The harem at Lalbagh Fort with the crowded apartment blocks just outside the fence.