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Take away Strasbourg, the jewel of a city in Alsace, and the region is still one of the most phenomenal places in Europe, let alone France. Small yet so relevant in terms of history, agriculture, politics and commerce, Alsace is on the west bank of the Rhine river near both Germany and Switzerland. Geography then, in many ways, is precisely what makes the region so special and a veritable goldmine of peerless culture.
For pure Alsatian charm, towns like Saverne, Obernai and Guebwiller are sublime, as are small communes like Marmoutier, Neuf-Brisach and Wissembourg. The Alsace Wine Route, or Route des Vins d’Alsace, is an absolute must of course and perhaps the best reason to rent a car in France. For mountain peaks, from the Massif du Donon to the Ballon d’Alsace, and national parks, the region is terrific. But quintessential Alsace and indeed, the very heart of the region, is in nowhere else but Strasbourg.
The economic, political and cultural focal point of Alsace is the only big city in the region, yet in some respects, has the feel of a small town. The annual Christmas market and numerous folk festivals held throughout the year certainly belie the size of the city.
Yet for all the small town appeal, Strasbourg makes the top ten in France in terms of metropolitan population. Over 700,000 people call the city home and as a pre-eminent seat of such institutions as the Council of Europe and European Parliament, the capital of Alsace and the Bas-Rhin department is vital.
Strasbourg has a long history, even by European standards. In 1988, celebrations all over the city marked 2,000 years of unbroken settlement in Strasbourg, a notable achievement indeed. UNESCO World Heritage status honors that history, with specific designation for the Grande Ile (or Big Island).
The historic pulse point of Strasbourg is photogenic to the extreme, with a fabulous network of monuments spread out quite neatly in a relatively small area. The city’s main cathedral, four ancient churches and the Palais Rohan – once a grand royal estate – provide modern Strasbourg with a genuine and intact medieval town. With all the inherent characteristics there for visitors to enjoy, old Strasbourg chronicles the city’s development from the 15th to the 18th century.
St. Thomas, St. Pierre-le-Vieux, St. Pierre-le-Jeune and St. Étienne are the four ancient churches specifically cited by UNESCO. They provide Strasbourg’s Grande Ile with much to see. St. Thomas Church in particular has a fascinating history and was built between 1196 and 1521, believe it or not.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg is worth more than a cursory glance. Though some features reveal Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is nonetheless a classic late Gothic masterpiece. One of the best in fact, with roots that go back to the late 12th century. For well over two hundred years until 1874, Strasbourg’s cathedral was the tallest structure in the entire world. On a clear day, the grand spire can be seen from the Black Forest on the other side of the Rhine. Try to time your visit for 12h30, when the cathedral’s incredible astronomical clock comes to life.
Like any good city in Europe, Strasbourg has some wonderful squares where locals gather, mingle and congregate throughout the day and night. Place Kléber is the central square in the city, located on the Grande Ile close to many fine landmarks and monuments. Every December, the city’s fantastic Christkindelsmärik draws up to two million visitors to the square. A massive fir tree, as tall as 30 m, graces Place Kléber every Christmas to signal the start of the holiday season.
Discover the best hotel deals in beautiful Strasbourg.
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Source: Ian Harrison
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Every week I venture into the grocery store, head towards the fish department, and check the prices on lobster. The truth, however, is that I don’t really want to buy it from the store. I’d much rather get it straight from the source which, in most cases, is in the great state of Maine.
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There’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of fresh lobster, the crack of the shell, and the sweet salty taste of lobster meat mixing with hot melted butter. In reality, though, no one knows how to prepare a Maine lobster better than the folks who handle the delectable beasts all year long. Want to taste something really spectacular? Try a lobster dish from one of these great locations.
10. Five Islands Lobster - Georgetown, Maine
At Five Islands Lobster in Georgetown you’ll enjoy not only a perfectly cooked lobster but a spectacular seaside atmosphere as well. Start by choosing your live lobster from the tank and, if you so desire, add some corn on the cob to your plate. There’s no seating inside Five Islands Lobster, so when your food is ready you’ll take it outside where you can lounge on the deck, watch the boats on the bay, and enjoy your food in peace.
9. Shaws Fish & Lobster Wharf - New Harbor, Maine
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New Harbor found its place on the map after the hit movie Message in a Bottle was filmed there years ago but Maine locals always knew about this gem in the rough. New Harbour is a true fishing town - an amazing place to watch fishermen deliver their daily catches or to hear stories in Shaw’s bar.
Photo: hajime7
The most popular dish at Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf is the lobster roll - shredded chunks of lobster meat mixed with just a hint of mayo and lemon juice and then served on a scantily buttered hot dog roll. It may sound strange but the 10,000 people who ate them last year are proof it’s a dish worth trying.
8. Morse Lobster at Estes Lobster House - Harpswell Neck, Maine
A visit to Estes Lobster House, while it’s only a short drive from the main highway, will leave you feeling as if you’ve discovered a missing village. The restaurant, located between Potts Harbor and Harpswell Sound, features a fire pit surrounded by dozens of outdoor tables. The folks here are serious about their lobster. Who needs a pair of lobster crackers when you can use your bare hands?
7. Clam Shack - Kennebunkport, Maine
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Kennebunkport is well known as the vacation spot of choice for the Bush family, yet on the side of the road you’ll find something a little less presidential - the Clam Shack. The owner, Steve Kingston, refuses to use knives to shred the lobster meat he serves with butter or mayo (or both) on a roll. He thinks metal knives will destroy the taste of the meat before it can be eaten.
6. Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier - Kittery Point, Maine
Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier is located not on the ocean, but on the bay. Make sure you come prepared as Chauncey Creek serves lobster and lobster alone. Alright - they have a raw bar, too, but nothing else. You’ll need to bring your own beverages, salads, and anything else you might want to have with your lobster - which you’ll choose from a live tank. Choose to enjoy your mail at a picnic table on the dock or in the screened in deck - it’s up to you.
5. Waterman’s Beach Lobster - South Thomaston, Maine
You’ll definitely appreciate a trip to Waterman’s Beach Lobster - a place where families can enjoy the beach just outside of busy Rockland. At the end of each day the local fishermen steam their lobsters over a bed of salt water in order to keep the meat firm. Gather the family around one of the two dozen picnic tables and dig in before heading back to the beach to hunt for shells or fly a kite.
4. Red’s Eats - Wiscasset, Maine
There’s a bridge on Route 1 leading in and out of the town of Wiscasset. During the summer months the line of traffic waiting to cross the bridge is unbearable but locals know there’s relief on the other side in the form of Red’s Eats. Here you’ll be served a hot dog roll stuffed with the meat of an entire lobster. Your condiments will be served on the side and, if you’re brave, you can take that sandwich back on the road with you to enjoy as you sit in a parking lot of traffic.
3. Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster - South Freeport, Maine
The Freeport area is a popular destination for avid outlet shoppers but discounted clothing isn’t all that the area has to offer. On the marina you’ll find Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster - an incredible little restaurant dedicated to serving the juiciest lobster in Maine. Make sure you order a side of “onion middles” while you’re there, too!
2. Barnacle Billy’s - Ogunquit, Maine
Ogunquit is popular amongst tourists in Maine and for good reason. This little seaside town is home to some of the most breathtaking views in Maine. Head on over to Barnacle Billy’s and find a seat on the deck. While there you’ll enjoy not only a spectacular lobster roll but the best clam chowder you’ve ever tasted in your life.
1. Bagaduce Lunch - Brooksville, Maine
This incredible restaurant is by far the best seafood takeout joint in all of Maine. Bagaduce Lunch has been in business for over 50 years and serves incredible lobster rolls, fried haddock, and a number of other seafood dishes. If you’re lucky you might be able to nap a table outside. Otherwise, you’ll have to take your treats with you on the road.
Image Credit: thevieve
Is your mouth watering for a big juicy lobster? Forget the grocery store. Pack your bags and head to Maine!
Source: Jennifer Gregory
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For those of us who like to taste our way around the world, tourism that centers on a particular cuisine, culinary tradition, or indeed, potent potable, holds tremendous interest. From vineyard tours in Champagne to pizza tours of Naples, to cite just two examples, wine and food travel offers wonderful rewards.
If you yearn to quench your thirst with history and tradition, well, beer is the perfect place to start. There are records to suggest that as far back as ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia in the 6th millenium BC, a beer-like beverage was a staple. While many of us associate the early days of suds with trappist monks holed up in secluded monastic confines, it seems that beer pre-dates even Neolithic Europe.
While there are many places you can venture to craft your own personal beer tour, from Asia to the United Kingdom, Belgium to the Czech Republic, Germany is peerless. Home to the oldest and yes, some of the best beers in the world, from Lower Saxony to Bavaria, Deutschland knows how to make a superior brew. With that in mind, here are some points of interest for beer lovers to take note of in Germany.
Deutsches Brauereimuseum
A museum seems like a funny place to start a beer tour of Germany but give us a minute to make a case for the superb Deutsches Brauereimuseum in Munich. First of all, the home of Oktoberfest is a great base in Germany for beer tourism, especially if you end your trip with the famous festival. Second of all, the museum at Saint-Jakobs-Platz is part of the excellent Munich Stadtmuseum and features exhibits on the history and evolution of beer. Best of all, the Brauereimuseum has a great microbrewery on the premises.
Augsburg
With close to 265,000 people in soutwest Bavaria, the city of Augsburg is a beautiful college town - one sure signal that good beer is omnipresent. With fabulous architecture and landmarks, Augsburg is also the notable home of Thorbrau, a brewery that dates back to 1582 - almost new by German standards.
Thuringia
The Free State of Thuringia may be small in size but nonetheless, contains some significant charm in the form of towns like Gera, Erfurt and Eisenach. Many towns in the state offer visitors the chance to tour “Geraer Hohler”, or old beer cellars. In addition, the tiny town of Bad Kostritz has been the home of famous black beer producer Kostritzer since 1543. Goethe was a famous fan of the dark beer, which reportedly kept his energy up when he was infirm for a spell.
Freising
Freising is a lovely town of just under 50,000 people in a Bavaria district of the same name. North of Munich, the small city is a notable beer tour stop. Weihenstephan, just outside of Freising proper, contains a Benedictine abbey that is not only nice to look at, but a holy shrine for beer lovers. The abbey is home to a brewery in operation since 1040, which makes it the most historic in the world.
Northeim
A drive through Northeim, Lower Saxony is a must, if only for some of the best scenery in Germany. The district however, also has a gem in Einbeck, a small town of 28,000 people that has been the home of Einbecker Bier for over 600 years.
Straubing
A beautiful small city of 50,000 people on the Danube in Bavaria, Straubing holds a festival every August that is second only to Oktoberfest in importance and size. Gaubodenvolksfest, a wonderful folk fair, may actually be more popular with locals than Munich’s decidedly more mainstream and commercial affair - with tons of great beers on tap of course.
Wurzburg
Another remarkable gem in Bavaria, Wurzburg is home to over 130,000 people, a great cityscape and one of the most brilliant pilsner producers in the world in Wurzburger brewery.
Weltenburg Abbey
Head to Kelheim in Bavaria for a memorable experience. Home to beer lore par excellence, the Danube district contains Weltenburg Abbey, a monastery brewery in operation since 1050.
Oktoberfest
How can you complete a beer tour of Germany without a foray into the Oktoberfest fray? Munich of course, is the wonderful city that plays annual host to this festival of festivals, with the ubiquitous scent of beer in the air, on the ground and frankly, everwhere.
Held in late September, the sixteen-day festival draws over six million people every year. Bring a strong bladder and a fierce thirst for beer - the famous 1-litre steins flow fast and freely.
Discover the best hotel deals in destinations all over Germany.
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Source: Ian Harrison
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Welcome to Adelaide, the capital of South Australia and one of the largest cities in Australia. With a population of over 1.1 million people, you may fear getting lost in the crowd when visiting Adelaide, but such is far from the case. In a city where festivals and sporting events are the norm, it’s easy to find something to do in between business meetings or laps in the hotel pool. Of course, when you’re not out exploring you’ll want to ensure you’re able to relax in a luxurious atmosphere, which is why you’ll want to check out one of Adelaide’s incredible 5-star hotels.
5. Clarion Hotel Soho
The Clarion Hotel Soho is one of the newest hotels in the Adelaide area. This chic boutique hotel, opened in 2008, is home to only 30 guest rooms and suites, each complete with the finest modern amenities available today. Imagine returning to your room after a day in the city to relax in front of your 42″ television, bathe in your marble bathroom, or simply unwind while enjoying free internet access and in-house movies as you take in the view from your hotel windows.
As if all these amenities weren’t enough, the Clarion Hotel Soho has a magnificent roof-top pool surrounded by a lovely balcony. Bask in the warm Australian sunlight from the roof while enjoying views of the city skyline beneath you. Once you’re relaxed you’ll want to call the Soho Spa - a unique spa service that will bring the opportunity to be pampered directly to your private room.
4. Stamford Plaza Adelaide
The Stamford Plaza Adelaide is yet another remarkable hotel in the city centre of Adelaide. The five-star hotel is located on the North Terrace and is within walking distance of the Parliament House, the SKYCITY casino, and the Convention Centre. In stark contrast to the Clarion Hotel Soho, the Stamford Plaza features over 300 rooms on 19 floors - but the level of service and elegance is just as remarkable.
Each of the large rooms within the hotels features modern amenities and every guest receives a complimentary newspaper each morning. Guests who wish to stay close to their rooms will enjoy choosing from one of Stamford’s three restaurants or two bars, each featuring elegant cuisine your tastebuds will certainly enjoy. Guests at the Stamford Plaza claim to love the service as well as the convenience of the close proximity to the train station and tram stops.
3. Hilton Hotel Adelaide
Luxurious Hilton hotels can be found around the globe and the Hilton Hotel Adelaide is certainly no exception to the rule. The stunning 374-room hotel sits where it can overlook Victoria Square and is just moments away from some of Adelaide’s most stunning tourist attractions. Visitors will enjoy exploring the Central Market as well as the shopping and theatre districts before hopping the train to visit the coast at Glenelg.
The Hilton Hotel Adelaide offers a number of different room and suite styles, ranging from simple rooms to suites and now, after renovation, some spectacularly redesigned executive rooms and deluxe suites. When you are not in your aptly equipped room you’ll enjoy exploring the hotel’s numerous restaurants, spa, and outdoor pool or simply relaxing in the cozy bar.
2. Sebel Playford Hotel Adelaide
The Sebel Playford Hotel Adelaide is another stunning boutique hotel. Larger in size than the Clarion Hotel Soho, the Sebel Playford features over 180 luxurious guest rooms and suites. Wine lovers will particularly enjoy visiting the Playford Restaurant in which some of the area’s finest boutique wines are served, while those with work to do will appreciate their ability to take advantage of the 24 hour business center.
The service at the Sebel Playford Hotel Adelaide is noted as being superb from the moment you pull up at the main entrance until the moment you drive away. The service here is so stunning, in fact, that the hotel was voted the “Best Luxury Hotel” during the SA Tourism Awards for each of the six years between 2001 and 2006.
1. Hyatt Regency Adelaide
The Hyatt Regency Adelaide is one of the most conveniently located 5-star hotels in the city. Located within the Riverbank Promenade, the hotel is central to the SKYCITY Casino, the Adelaide Convention Centre, and the Festival Centre. Featuring over 360 elegant guest rooms, the hotel also houses three restaurants, a bar, and a nightclub. There’s no reason to sit alone in your room during a stay in Adelaide.
The staff members at the Hyatt Regency Adelaide are ready and waiting to ensure your stay is as pleasant as humanly possible. Past guests have loved every aspect of their stay including their staff experiences, the buffet breakfast, and even the gorgeously adorned bathrooms.
You deserve to be treated like royalty, no matter where you end up in Adelaide. Stay in one of these incredible 5-star hotels and you’re guaranteed a pleasant Australian hotel experience.
Source: Jennifer Gregory
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The world lost a pop culture icon on June 25, 2009. The untimely death of the King of Pop shook the entire globe, from Mongolia to Cuba, Iceland to New Zealand. Nobody in history, certainly not in the world of music and entertainment, had name recognition like Michael Jackson.
From The Jackson 5 to Off the Wall, Thriller to Bad, Jackson was a pioneer and innovator and set a new standard in show business. His videos, album sales, chart records and world tours had a transformative effect on the industry.
The hyperbole can get out of hand when you describe icons like Michael Jackson. Before we run out of adjectives to define his timeless legacy, here are some places that together, make up a de facto King of Pop pilgrimage.
Gary, Indiana
Born in Arkansas, Joseph Jackson, patriarch of the famous music family, came to East Chicago and later, Gary, Indiana, at the age of eighteen to work as a crane operator for U.S. Steel. There, he met future wife Katherine Scruse and after a failed attempt at a music career, Jackson poured his energy into grooming the couple’s nine children for stardom.
The rest as they say, is history. While the city of 100,000 people, a short 45 minute drive from Chicago, has some notable charm, Gary will forever be famous as the birthplace of Michael Jackson and indeed, the entire Jackson clan.
Detroit
After Berry Gordy got wind of The Jackson 5 in 1968 and specifically, the inordinate talent of young Michael, the family relocated to The Motor City. Once there, the band would revive Motown Records and from the first strains of “I Want You Back” and “ABC”, took the world by storm.
The Jackson 5 sound - a marriage of pop and R&B, led by the powerful, clear vocals of a pre-teen Michael Jackson - was fresh and revolutionary. It came to typify a new era of Motown and indeed, music. The old headquarters of Hitsville U.S.A., graced by the likes of The Temptations, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder and The Jackson 5, is now home to the Motown Historical Museum.
Apollo Theater
A New York City landmark and on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the Apollo Theater’s contribution to popular culture is without precedent. No other music hall in the world has launched more legendary careers, from Ella Fitzgerald to James Brown, Diana Ross to of course, The Jackson 5.
Michael Jackson’s appearance at the Apollo with his brothers in the very early days of the group helped propel them to mega-stardom. After his death became public on June 25, fans spontaneously gathered en masse outside the theater and his childhood home.
Los Angeles
Hollywood and Los Angeles contain a slew of relevant Michael Jackson landmarks. On the day of his death, the King of Pop’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was covered by a red carpet for the premiere of the Sasha Baron Cohen mockumentary Brüno. Coincidentally, a scene from the film featuring sister LaToya and referencing Jackson was cut by Universal, being deemed distasteful in the wake of the superstar’s death. As a result of the premiere, hundreds of fans mistakenly paid homage to the wrong Michael Jackson. English-born radio talk show host Michael Jackson also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Other Los Angeles landmarks that have a connection to the King of Pop include the Bel Air mansion where he met his demise on June 25. While inaccessible for now, Neverland Ranch, Michael Jackson’s sprawling 3,000 acre amusement park estate in Santa Barbara County, will no doubt rival Elvis Presley’s Graceland one day as a tourist attraction.
London
London was to be the backdrop for Michael Jackson’s dramatic swansong. With fifty dates at O2 Arena, all sold out in a matter of minutes, the King of Pop was just weeks away from the stage before he went into cardiac arrest on June 25.
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Source: Ian Harrison
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In the southwest section of India you’ll find the state of Kerala. The area has long been known as the “God’s own country” and it is famous amongst locals and tourists for a variety of reasons. Some enjoy the backwaters and others the beaches. Those interested in Ayurveda and other forms of health care, however, will be incredibly interested in the medical tourism industry that continues to grow in Kerala.
Image: fabola
What is Medical Tourism?
The term “medical tourism” isn’t as luxurious as you might at first believe. While some people associate tourism with “vacations” and “trips” the term actually applies to individuals who travel to foreign countries to obtain health care that is either not available or unaffordable in their own country.
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There are several different reasons to use medical tourism in order to obtain health care. Some people, especially celebrities, prefer to have cosmetic surgeries done far from home because they want to be out of the public spotlight while they recover. In other case, some patients may find alternative treatments being utilized in other countries that are not available in their home country. In many cases, the main reason for participating in medical tourism is cost.
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Individuals have traveled across international borders for joint replacement, dental work, psychological care, and even hospice treatments. Just about every area of the medical profession welcomes medical tourism in some country. Today there are approximately 50 countries around the globe who participate in medical tourism.
The Risks Associated with Medical Tourism
Those who decide to participate in medical tourism are taking quite a few risks. It is important to realize that the culture in every country is different. The natural immunity you have built up towards diseases in your home country may not protect you from foreign diseases in the place you visit. You’re opening yourself up to infection not only from your procedure, but from amoebic dysentery, paratyphoid, tuberculosis, HIV, and even hepatitis.
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One of the reasons people flock towards medical tourism is because the costs associated with care in other countries are often much less than the cost of care in their own homes. For example, the cost of healthcare in the United States is so expensive because it is heavily regulated by government agencies who are concerned with quality control. If the doctor makes a mistake in a foreign country you may have no recourse and, even if you did sue, the doctor is not very likely to pay you.
Ethical issues may arise as well. In some countries, such as Thailand, doctors are so focused on foreign travelers (who pay more) that they have less time for local Thai patients who urgently need their care.
Medical Tourism in Kerala
Image Credit: BIJI KURIAN
The Indian state of Kerala focuses on Ayurveda as its traditional medicinal system and is heavily promoted as a medical tourism destination because of these classical treatments. That’s not to say that Kerala is solely focused on Ayurveda, though. The state prides itself on having highly trained doctors from all areas of the medical profession and is believed to have some of the finest medical facilities in the world.
Indian doctors have gained recognition around the world. They’re known for being very skilled and caring and several of the finest Indian doctors return to India after touring and training abroad. The Indian medical system also includes world-class pre- and post-operative care - meaning you won’t be rushed out of your hospital bed because of corporate or bureaucratic red tape.
Image: fabola
The types of medical care available in Kerala include:
- Ayurveda
- Cardiac
- Dental
- Transplant Surgery
- Ophthalmology
- Orthopedic
- Neurosurgery
- Fertility Treatment
- General Surgery, and
- Other alternative practices (naturopathy, Siddha, etc)
Kerala is popular amongst medical tourists for a number of reasons. Aside from providing high-quality medical care for low prices, the area is relatively easy to access and boasts a temperate climate year round. Visitors will be able to communicate easily with their doctors and the public and will have the finest amenities available, both in the hospital and in their hotels.
Medical tourism is, of course, not something that should be taken lightly - whether you plan to travel to Kerala or some other country. Make sure you conduct thorough research before deciding to take a trip overseas for a procedure you could have had done back home. Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
Source: Jennifer Gregory
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Of the dozens of top ten lists in our humble blog thusfar, it was a major surprise, if not shock, to discover the conspicuous absence of Athens. For shame! Lest our Greek mates discover the blatant omission, we should rectify the error here and now, post haste.
Vast capital of Greece, birthplace of the Olympic Games and indeed, philosophy and democracy, the once classical city-state is a lively, cosmopolitan metropolis. Athens, the heart of finance, politics, commerce, arts and culture in Greece, is a premier alpha world city. While many opt for a short stay in the capital before weeks of debauchery and depravity in the Aegean Sea, patience yields brilliant rewards in Athens. Santorini, Ios, Rhodes, Mykonos and Crete, to name but several islands, will always be special but with well over 3,000 years of history, Athens is unbelievable.
From the obvious to the diminutive, here are ten must-see attractions in the 2004 Summer Olympic Games host city.
10. Academy of Athens
The de facto national academy of Greece is a tribute to the Academy of Plato and honors the tradition of knowledge, philosophy and study in the country. The main Neoclassical complex, built in the late 19th century, is one of the central landmarks in Athens.
9. The National Garden
Those in search of refuge from the heat and urban sprawl of Athens will love the superb National Garden. Just behind the Greek Parliament, the oasis offers over 15 hectares of land to explore at your own pace, with ancient ruins to ogle at every turn.
8. Syntagma Square
One of the most important squares in Europe, if not the world, has been the pulse point for political protest for well over a century - a frequent occurrence in Greece. Syntagma Square, with the Greek Parliament in full view, is a public transportation hub in Athens and provides easy access to some of the best districts in the city. Did we mention the square has free WiFi?
7. Cape Sounion
Though 69 km from Athens, Cape Sounion still merits consideration as a must-see attraction in the capital city. The beautiful peninsula promontory offers stellar Aegean Sea photo ops and best of all, a heritage network of ancient ruins and temples.
6. The Ancient Agora
In classical times, the agora was a place of assembly, open to the public at large. The Ancient Agora of Athens is the best example left in the world, with as many as twenty vital inherent monuments that date as far back as the 6th century BC. Some 800 years later, landmarks such as the Temple of Ares, Altar of Zeus Agoraios and Odeon of Agrippa, among many others, were built within the agora.
5. Mount Lycabettus
The grand summit of Athens is visible from the Acropolis but for some reason, many choose to leave it at that and skip out on the funicular ride to the top. With a magnificent panorama of Athens, the legendary hill is worth the short trip, especially for open air summer concerts.
4. The Plaka
At the base of the Acropolis, the historic Plaka district winds around the ancient hill and features labyrinthine streets, stone and Cycladic architecture and a host of restaurants, tavernas, bars and shops. The most popular and vibrant area of the city, bar none.
3. National Archaeological Museum
Archaeology and Greece go hand in hand. From Turkey to Macedonia, the country is a goldmine for Indiana Jones hopefuls. For the absolute best of what Greece has to offer in terms of ancient relics, artifacts, monuments and documents, head to the world class National Archaeological Museum.
2. The Acropolis Museum
A site of eternal archaeological excavation, the Acropolis is a limitless treasure trove of remarkable relics. Built in 2008 at the base of the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Acropolis Museum is without peer, with artifacts that cover the Bronze Age to Byzantine Greece.
1. The Acropolis
The Great Pyramid of Giza, the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal: all ancient and instantly recognizable. Well, add the Acropolis of Athens to the list. So familiar and ubiquitous in grainy picture form, from humble gyro restaurants all over the world to middle school history textbooks, the mere appearance of the Parthenon startles many as they get within close range of the famous hill. The premier attraction on the European Cultural Heritage list is a remarkable complex, with the ruins of no less than twenty-one vital monuments on site.
Discover the best rates on hotels in Athens.
Photo credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Source: Ian Harrison
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Known around the world as a fashion capital, the Italian city of Milan draws a wide variety of fashion divas and business tycoons year round. The city is as artistic as it is historic and features a number of distinguished museums, opera houses, palazzos, and galleries. Have you ever considered ogling some of da Vinci’s original drawings in between trips to upscale shopping malls? If not, a trip to Milan is certainly in order.
When to Visit Milan
Milan is an incredible destination throughout the entire year, though individuals who don’t like rainy weather should avoid the city during the spring months, although temperatures are reasonably cool. Summer temperatures tend to hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius) and then taper back down to a cooler temperature for the fall months. Truth be told, the temperatures in Milan are relatively stable throughout the year except for during the winter months when they fall to anywhere between 25 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 to 7.2 degrees Celsius).
What to Wear in Milan
Despite its status as the fashion capital of the world, not everyone walks around the city wearing designer clothing. As a matter of fact, if you look around you’ll see a wide variety of fashion trends ranging from ethnic dress to falling jeans (on teens, of course) and completely sloppy tourists. It’s best to try to look at least somewhat put together during your stay but dressing up every moment of the day is inappropriate.
What you don’t want to do is wear brand new white sneakers as they’re a sign that you’re a tourist. Shorts and tank tops are usually acceptable but you can’t wear them inside of churches so they’re best avoided, unless you’re absolutely positive you won’t be going near a house of worship on any given day.
Safety Considerations within Milan
Milan is an incredibly safe city for both locals and tourists but, as in any place, you should use caution when moving about. The most common crime in Milan is theft but if you are careful to lock up your belongings, pay attention to where you leave your purse, and lock your rental car at all times you should have no problems.
The city is usually very busy, even at night, so you should feel safe exploring the nightlife as well. Individuals traveling alone should consider renting a cab, though - better safe than sorry, especially if you find yourself lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood.
Photo: orsorama
Speaking the Language in Milan
This may come as a bit of a surprise but locals often prefer it when tourists speak their own native languages. You will, most likely, still experience a language barrier but waitresses and shop owners prefer speaking slow English than attempting to decipher your broken Italian.
Unless you are fluent in Italian, greet your host in his native language and then assess the situation. Many Milan locals, especially those who deal with the public, are fluent in English and it will be easier for everyone involved if you just slow you speech, avoid slang, and communicate effectively.
Transportation in Milan
Image Credit:LHOON
Most of Milan can be explored by foot, especially if you’re staying near the center of the city. You’ll enjoy being able to wander from shop to museum to restaurant at your own leisurely pace and at the same time you’ll have a better opportunity to witness life in Milan through your own two eyes.
It’s highly recommended that you avoid attempting to drive through Milan as it can be incredibly confusing - not to mention adventurous. The city bus system is highly recommended and taxi drivers are friendly and knowledgeable. Both are much better options than driving which, by the way, comes with an extra pollution surcharge.
Things to Do in Milan
If you’re visiting Milan for the first time we highly recommend you join one of the city’s myriad of sightseeing tours. They’re a bit expensive but will ensure you’re able to see several major highlights - including a view of the original Last Supper - and will help you to locate some of the other attractions you wish to see later on during your trip.
Those interested in understanding exactly why Milan is the fashion capital of the world should head towards Quadrilatero d’Oro. The triangle shaped plaza is where you’ll find the storefronts of most of Italy’s major fashion designers. If window shopping depresses you (or if you simply aren’t interested in high-end clothing) you should skip this section of the city entirely.
Photo: scalleja
By the way, you haven’t had a real gelato until you’ve visited Riverano Gelato. Inside you’ll be presented with a menu full of both familiar and unusual names (though you might be able to sample one of the strange ones if you ask). The creamy texture is unlike any you’ve ever tasted - and you certainly won’t find yourself licking up a watery mess like you would in some other shops. Don’t leave Milan without visiting this establishment.
Milan is a vibrant city full of sophistication and class. Explore as much as you can while you’re there. You won’t be sorry!
Source: Jennifer Gregory
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Set in the Huanan Province of China, the Guoliang Tunnel has been a source of interest and controversy for many years. Up until 1972, the only access to the secluded Guoliang Village was a tiny walking path that had been carved out of the side of the mountain. Desperate for freedom, anxious villagers decided that enough was enough and did what most would not have believed impossible. They carved their own road into the mountain.
Building the Guoliang Tunnel
A man by the name of Shen Mingxin was the leader of the village during the time the decision was made to build the tunnel. He mandated that all members of the village participate in the project in some way, shape, or form. The inhabitants of Guoliang Village sold herbs and even goats in order to raise funds for the tools they would need to carve the tunnel.
Once they had the tools they needed, a core group of 13 village members began the actual construction work. It took them five years to carve out the tunnel which spans just under a mile long and contains 30 distinct windows. The real reason for the windows is unknown. Some believe they were included so that the workers would have a place to throw the rubble from construction while others believe they were merely added to provide light in a place where electricity would never reach.
The tunnel itself is 12 feet wide and 15 feet high and its construction resulted in the death of several villagers. The tunnel was not open to traffic until May 1, 1977.
Guoliang Opens its Doors to the World
Previous to the opening of the tunnel, Guoliang Village was cut off from the rest of the world. The gamble the original 13 villagers took more than paid off. Years later the Chinese government decided to allow tourists into the country on a regular basis. When they did so, Guoliang Village became a renowned tourist attraction. The village that saw virtually no foot traffic suddenly had thousands of visitors each year.
Of course, while the Guoliang Tunnel is not nearly as dangerous as the Bolivian Highway of Death, it does have its quirks. There are a few open stretches in which cars turn around the mountain without the comfort of a tunnel wall on the outside edge.
On the other hand, even in the comfort of the tunnel there is still opportunity for danger. Because the road is only 12 feet wide, two-way traffic situations can become very difficult. One can only hope that the Chinese government, or at least the villagers in Guoliang, has developed a system for ensuring that traffic does not meet in the middle of the tunnel.
The tunnel, due to its relatively short length, is open to those traveling on foot as well. This only adds to the seriousness of the situation as drivers rounding the bends in the tunnel may not see walking travelers and tourists in time. If not, those traveling on foot risk being hit or being dumped off the side of the cliff - neither a very appealing option.
Regardless of whether you choose to walk or drive, we don’t recommend looking down out the side windows as you travel. The unsettling view of the mountainside dropping off beneath you may give you cause for pause and, to be honest, it’s often safer to just continue walking or driving until you’ve reached the other end.
There are, after all, plenty of opportunities to take photos of the tunnel or absorb the stunning scenery from afar, both on your way in and out of Guoliang Village. Everything in the village itself is made of stone - from the houses and bridges to the bowls and stools.
Guoliang Village may receive thousands of visitors annually but it is still a very small town. There are approximately 80 households within the city walls, providing shelter to about 320 regular citizens.
Be sure to make an effort to visit Guoliang Village the next time you find yourself in the Hunan Province. Both the village and the tunnel will provide you with memories you’re guaranteed to never forget.
Source: Jennifer Gregory
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While some pilgrimage sites around the world have become commercial and perhaps even, diluted over time, others still exude a tranquil sense of spirituality. While some remain inaccessible, others provide comfort and awe to anyone, no matter what set of beliefs they subscribe to.
Buddhism, a bastion of inclusion, acceptance and love, has a host of holy sites both ancient and venerable. From India and Burma, to China and Indonesia, these vital abodes of worship offer supreme scenery and peerless heritage architecture. Best of all, if enlightenment has proven elusive thusfar, you may yet attain it at one of these havens of reverence. At the very least, they provide the ideal backdrop and environs from which to earn some precious karma points.
Lumbini, Nepal
The Kapilavastu district of Nepal contains a number of Buddhist temples that draw scores of pilgrims throughout the year. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Lumbini however, is eternally sacred as the presumed birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha Gautama. At the foothills of the Himalayas, near the border of India, points of interest in Lumbini include ancient ruins and the Mayadevi temple where the Buddha was apparently born.
Bodh Gaya, India
The Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya is a major pilgrimage site in Buddhism for one very explicit reason. As the place where Siddhartha Gautama underwent a spiritual transformation under a Bodhi tree, Bodh Gaya is a holy city. A UNESCO World Heritage site, millions visit the temple and tree in a personal quest for nirvana every year.
Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
A city of 120,000 in beautiful and exotic Central Java, Magelang is one of Indonesia’s veritable gems and the ideal place for pilgrims and tourists to rest on the way to Borobudur. A 9th century Mahayana Buddhist monument, Borobdubur is a magnificent shrine to Buddha. The UNESCO World Heritage site is the most popular attraction in Indonesia.
Sarnath, India
As the location where Gautama first taught the dharma, or ultimate truth about the universe, Sarnath is a precious site for devout Buddhists. The deer park just outside of the big city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is a major site of worship.
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Kushinagar, India
A small town in Uttar Pradesh was the scene of Buddha’s death in 400 BC, give or take a few years. With about 18,000 people, Kushinagar’s principal attraction is Makutabandhana, the cremation site of Gautama Buddha.
Luang Prabang, Laos
One of the most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites in Southeast Asia, Laos has a splendid jewel in Luang Prabang. A blend of heritage Lao and colonial architecture, the townscape is phenomenal to explore and contains the precious Wat Xieng Thong Buddhist temple.
Bagan, Burma
The military junta at the helm in Burma has been a dreadful steward of the country’s priceless architectural heritage. Nevertheless, despite the golf course and highway that run past it, Bagan is a marvelous place to visit. Buddhist or not, the ancient temple complex in the Mandalay Division is awesome to behold.
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
The second most ancient city in Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa dates back to the year 1055 and is home to more than 350,000 people. The UNESCO World Heritage site contains Brahmanic monuments built by the Cholas and the ruins of a once-powerful and gorgeous garden city.
Sacred Mountains of China
Vital in both Taoism and Buddhism, the Sacred Mountains of China present a worthwhile challenge to intrepid pilgrims. The Four Sacred Mountains that make up the Buddhist trek combine stellar vistas with ancient temple architecture.
Lhasa, Tibet
Aggressive plans by the People’s Republic of China to grow tourism to the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama has led to accusations that the government has degraded the ancient capital of Tibet. While it would be a crime if the UNESCO World Heritage city endured the kind of debasement now common in Burma and not too long ago, in Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge, thankfully, a visit to Lhasa is still an utterly transformative experience.
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Source: Ian Harrison
