Amazing Annapolis
Wanna sail or cruise along the serene seaside while savoring the settings of colonial heritage, then head for Annapolis, the capital of Maryland on the east coast of the US.
We had the opportunity to see the marvelous Maryland and its sylvan suburbs, thanks to our friends Suparno and Malabika, permanent residents of the US.
We set off from Silver Spring (this is where Suparno stays) after lunch. Suparno was driving his sleek Honda Accura and it’s one and half-hour’s drive from Silver Spring.
It was not a very sunny afternoon, when we started and the weather was perfect for the trip. As we were driving through Highway 50E, we could see lush greenery on either side of the highway.
The 350-year-old city is home to a large fleet of sailboats and power boats and is called the sailing and boating capital. Annapolis has some of the finest examples of colonial homes, including the Hammond-Harwood House and the Charles Carroll House.
The city has a vibrant maritime industry from watermen who continue the family heritage of plying the Chesapeake for fish, crab and oysters, to sail makers and boat architects working on the latest innovations for the America’s Cup races.
I was talking to John, a resident of Annapolis, at a convenience store: “It is a vibrant city and we are proud of its charming colonial heritage,” he gushes. “Our neighborhood across the bridge from downtown Annapolis retains much of its old maritime character, showcased at the Annapolis Maritime Museum.”
It was 4 pm when we reached. We planned to take the cruise, but due to bad weather the cruise service was cancelled an hour before the scheduled time.
However, water taxi service was available and we boarded it to savor the serene sea shore. Rates for water taxi depend on destination: $2 to $8 per person. The City Dock Water Taxi stand is adjacent to the Harbormaster’s office in Ego Alley. There’s absolutely no need to worry about finding a parking spot when you travel by water taxi. If you are not sure what to do, ask your captain and he is always happy to point you in the right direction.
As the water taxi was gliding along the choppy water, the ride was an absolute delight. The sight of seagulls flying overhead and the elegant heritage buildings on the waterfront offered an exquisite spectacle.
There was an English narration describing culture and the history of the city: Named to honor the future Queen Anne of England, Annapolis literally translates to “Anne’s City.” All of this early town is within the designated National Historic Landmark area. On November 22, 1708, Governor John Seymour, appointed by Queen Anne of Great Britain, granted a charter to Annapolis, making it the oldest incorporated municipality in Maryland.
Annapolis is the only Maryland city whose charter was issued under the Royal seal.
As we stepped out of the water taxi, it was almost 7pm. The sky was overcast and we had to hurry home. As we left Annapolis, I thanked god for having created such an astonishing place on earth!
