Baltimore, MD

I had the opportunity this week to stay at the lovely Hotel Monaco near the beautiful inner harbor waterfront in downtown Baltimore, formerly the site of the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad headquarters. 

It still today maintains a gorgeous lobby with lots of marble and chandeliers.

The history of the property is fascinating as is the B&O railroad itself.  This illustration is showing

a B & O train crossing the Thomas Viaduct (which remains the world's oldest multiple arched stone railroad bridge) near Elkridge, MD this photo from 1835. 

 

The façade of the building (not the best picture) is still evident in today's remake of a hotel. 

  And how can anyone forget this iconic mention of B&O from Monopoly.  Rent $25.  If 2 RR's owned $50, if 3 $100 and $200 if you were lucky enough to own all 4.

 

 

A modern day street scene. 

 

With wonderful and soulful restaurants nearby.

It was the perfect place for a tête-à-tête while also conducting business a few blocks away. 

 

My favorite artist / song this week are compliments of Nikki Yanofsky

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFl9SwnItj0.  It's got a jazz beat and she's adorable.  I don't think you can help but feel like dancing while listening to this.