Piran – Slovenia

Piran – Slovenia is a town in the country regarded by many as the most beautiful seaside town among all coastal towns in Slovenia. Abundant in medieval structures, visitors coming here for the first time feel as if they have stepped back in time.

Location

Piran – Slovenia is located in the south-west parts of the country, on the tip of the peninsula of Piran which is situated on the Gulf of Piran. It is bordered by Croatia on its southern side and Izola as well as Koper on its eastern side.

Getting There

As there are no airports in Piran – Slovenia, the nearest airport that you can fly in to is the one in Trieste. From Trieste, you can catch a bus going to Piran which will take about one hour.

There are likewise bus services from other parts of Slovenia that ply the route going to Piran.

What to See

As mentioned earlier, Piran – Slovenia is teeming with beautiful medieval structures.

The Piran Town Walls were constructed around the town to protect it from foreign invasion. A huger part of this fortification still stands today and is well-preserved.

There is also the Venetian House designed in Venetian-Gothic architectural style. It is said that a very rich merchant had this house constructed for his mistress.

There is an interesting inscription in the middle of the upper windows that translates to “let them talk” perhaps owing to this little bit of information about the house having been built for a mistress.

 

On Tartini Square, a plaza named after the famous violinist native to Piran, Guiseppe Tartini; you can find the violinist’s old house. The house was first designed in Gothic style back in 1384 but was later on renovated to the Neo-Classical architectural design.

Incidentally, you can also find a monument in honor of Tartini right on the square named after him.

Also, do not miss visiting the Church of St. George which gives you a good panoramic view of the city and its harbor.

Brief History

Between 178 BC and 177 BC, the peninsula of Piran was annexed to the Roman Empire. During the seventh century, under Byzantine sovereignty, the town became one of the most heavily-fortified towns in the country.

In the year 1812, the Battle of Pirano took place within the waters surrounding the peninsula; between French and British naval forces. The French lost the battle as they surrendered to British Captain, John Talbot.

In October of 2010, Piran elected Peter Bossman as its town mayor; a native of Ghana who moved to Piran – Slovenia in the latter years of the ‘70s. This was a historic event as this is the first time that a black mayor was ever elected in Slovenia.

Cost

Accommodations in Piran – Slovenia are very limited. There is a hostel and a youth hotel within Piran and rooms here cost about €22 to €25. Nearby Piran however, you can find several excellent accommodations.

Mid-range hotels generally cost about €55 up to €70 per person, per night; while more luxurious accommodations range from €74 up to €134 per person, per night.

Other Information

The best way to explore Piran – Slovenia is on foot as the town is quite small and you can take your time admiring the sights as you walk through its paths.

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Gudauri in Stepantsminda District – Georgia

Gudauri in Stepantsminda is one of the finest ski resorts in Georgia. One of the country’s main tourist destinations, it is at par with those in other countries.

Location and How to Get to This Specific Site

The resort is in the district of Stepantsminda. It can be found in Georgia’s Greater Caucasus Mountain Range. You can get to the place by driving on the Georgian Military Highway. It is close to the Cross Pass. From Tbilisi, the trip will take a couple of hours. It is 75 miles (120 km) north of Georgia’s capital.

What to See There

The resort is right on the mountain’s southern slopes. It rises to a height of 7,200 ft (nearly 2,200 m). The biggest attraction in Gudauri in Stepantsminda is skiing. The slopes are all over the tree line and risk free from avalanches.

Heliskiing services allow skiers to experience awe-inspiring runs. These are done at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to over 4,000 m. The helicopters will drop the skiers off on glaciers, mountain tops and other stunning locations.

 

History

The idea for the site emerged during the mid 1980s. Several investors saw its potential to be a tourist spot. Several areas were inspected, but it was Gudauri that was chosen due to its location.

Actual construction began in 1985. Since that time, numerous innovations have taken place. The features and activities in the
premises have also been greatly enhanced.

Cost

Cable cars, buses, trolleybuses, taxis, minibuses and the underground system make up the country’s public transport. The bus fares cost at least 10 Tetri. The minibus fare is double that. Taxi fares are negotiable. Private taxis are usually more practical than shared ones.

Other Info

The resort has numerous lifts and routes. The lower lift is situated 2,000 m over the sea level. The top is set 3,300 m above sea level. The initial lift is 1,000 m long. The second is 2,300 long. The third extends for 1,000 m.

The first lift has three chairs, while the second has four. The third has three chairs. Aside from skiing you can also just relax and enjoy the views of the mountains. Visitors to the site may also visit the Gergeti Trinity Church.

Hiking and trekking may also be arranged when you visit the site.
Gudauri in Stepantsminda also offers guides for its skiing and heliskiing activities. It is also possible to go on excursions to other tourist attractions nearby.

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Appenzellerland – Switzerland

Are you dreaming of a relaxing holiday decorated with crystal-clear springs and lakes, picturesque valleys and rock formations plus friendly villagers? Appenzellerland in Switzerland is a good choice of a destination for you.

 

Location and How to Get There

Appenzellerland is situated on the eastern side of Switzerland. It is accessible from Zurich via the Swiss railway network. There are also backcountry lanes leading to this Alpine region so you should not find it hard to find your way around. It is a short 15-minute travel from St. Gallen.

What to See There

A trip to Appenzellerland is all about understanding a folksy culture and undertaking an exciting adventure.

Among the urbanites, Appenzellerland is merely the epitome of folksy culture and traditions. Although they mock the region for it, tourists loved it there. That’s where you should take your cue. This is where you will be able to witness and experience country living at its finest. The laid back atmosphere allows for relaxing moments with some little adventures here and there. This is where you will discover a wealth of tradition that involves cheese-making, music, and painting.

There are many wonderful sights to see at Appenzellerland – the snowy peaks, the rolling hills, and the flowery meadows. Taking the cable car route is a nice way to enjoy stunning views of the rugged mountains and everything else in them.

History

Appenzellerland was founded in the middle of 11th century. In early 1400s, it joined the Swiss Confederation. In 1597, it was divided into two half cantons due to some religious issues. But for the purpose of tourism, the half cantons were collectively known as Appenzellerland.

The region went through so much before it came to the kind of government that it is now. That much history is very clearly seen everywhere, with the traditional culture and crafts fantastically preserved.

Cost

The cost of a trip to Appenzellerland depends on many factors. For one, there’s your accommodation. There are a variety of lodging options that can be found here. For another, there’s the kind of activities you would like to indulge into. Taking a cable car, for example, demands a fee. There is of course, an allowance required for food. Appenzellerland has many delectable culinary dishes that are all must-try. You should allot a good budget for a food adventure while you are there.

Other info

There are various old traditions that you can witness at Appenzellerland. There’s Stobede, which is decorated with yodeling, dancing, and lots of Alpine merrymaking and string music.

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Saint Martin’s Concathedral in Bratislava – Slovakia

St Martin’s Cathedral in Bratislava is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Slovakia. Presently it is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Bratislava. The cathedral is one of the most ancient in Slovakia.

 

Location

The cathedral is located at Bratislava, the capital of the country. The cathedral is close to the western border of the center under the Bratislava Castle.

What to See

The cathedral is most noted for its height of 85 meters. The interior of the cathedral is also noteworthy for its design. There is also a statue of St. Martin in the area. The courtyard is also noted for the outbuildings remains. The cathedral is probably best known for containing the remains of Saint John the Merciful from the 7th century.

The St Martins Cathedral in Bratislava has three naves. It measures 69.37 m x 22.85 m x 16.02 m (L x W x H). The shape of the edifice is akin to a crucifix. The nave is symbolic of the body of Christ. The presbytery is symbolic of Christs inclined head.

At the altar, the equestrian statue group of St. Martin dominates the scene. The figure is clad as a Hungarian hussar does.

History

Even before the cathedral was built, the site was already a place of worship. It also used to be a market and a chapel. The Bratislava Castle was also a place of worship. A church was constructed there in 1221. It was done in the Romanesque manner. As the town grew, a new cathedral had to be built.

The construction was not completed until 1452. The delay was due to lack of funds and the advent of the Hussite Wars. Through the 15th and 16th centuries, construction of the cathedral continued. A presbytery was added in 1461-1497.

The church got its present look around 1869 to 1877. The church was redesigned, giving it a more Gothic appearance. For several years, the church would become the site for the coronation of kings and queens.

Cost

The entrance fee to the cathedral is 2 Euros.

If you are going to visit Slovakia, there are many travel packages to choose from. A 1000 USD package will give you the chance to see many attractions.

Other Info

Right next to the cathedral is a monument. A synagogue used to be located there until the Communists brought it down.

At the head of the St Martin’s Cathedral in Bratislava tower is the Hungarian Crowns replica. This is set on a 4 meter stone pillow.

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Wieliczka Salt Mine in Krakow – Poland

The Wieliczka Salt Mines is one of the oldest salt mining companies in the world. It is also very popular with tourists due to its chapel and statues.

Location and How to Get to This Specific Site

The site’s address is Danilowicza Street 10, 32-020 Krakow, Poland. It is inside the Krakow metro area in Wieliczka. You can take the buses at Starowislna Street. The trip will take about 40 minutes. Note that these are public buses, not a tour bus. But there are also tourist buses that can take you directly to the site.

What to See There

The salt mine reaches a depth of 327 m and stretches for 300 km. The touring route stretches for 3.5 km. This route allows visitors to see mythical figures and historic statues.

The oldest sculptures and structures were created by the miners. The newer sculptures in the Wieliczka Salt Mines were made by modern craftsmen. The crystal-like chandeliers in the site are actually constructed from rock.

 

There is also a chamber with carved walls that look like chapels made of wood. These were constructed by miners several hundred years ago. The underground lake is also part of the attraction. There is also an exhibit detailing its mining history. There is also a wellness complex and a private rehabilitation.

History

The salt mine began producing table salt in the 13th century up to 2007. The commercial mining aspect ended in 1996 resulting from mine flooding and low prices. But it remains a vey popular tourist attraction. The mine has been under UNESCO protection since 1976. During World War II, the complex was utilized by the Germans to produce war materials.

Throughout its long history, several famous people have visited the site. Among them were Alexander von Humboldt, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Nicolaus Copernicus, former US President Bill Clinton and Pope John Paul II.

Cost

The entrance fee is 50 Polish zloty. There is an extra charge of 10 zloty if you want to take photos.

Other Info

The rocks in the salt mines are grey. That is the reason why some of the carvings appear a bit unpolished. When you reach the end of the tour you will see the reception room and cathedral. This area can be used for parties or weddings.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines tours are conducted in English. There are also pamphlets available. However, you can also go there independently.

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Las Medulas in Ponferrada – Spain

Ponferrada is an exciting city to explore in Spain. That is especially since it is the site of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Las Medulas.

 

Location and How to Get There

Las Medulas is just a few kilometers away from downtown Ponferrada. It is situated in El Bierzo region, which used to be the most important gold mine in the Roman Empire. Getting there is easy by public transportation. If you aim for comfort and convenience, you may also hire a private car rental or a taxi. That is, of course, if you are prepared to cough up a few extra dollars.

What to See There

The best thing about visiting Las Medulas is having an opportunity to take a glimpse back in history. Its historical and cultural significance is mostly what people are excited to take an adventure on. It was the spectacular landscape of Las Medulas that made way for a special mining system called Ruina Montium. It was also the stunning scenery of this amazing site that draws tourism money to the region.

Basically, Las Medulas is a sightseeing destination. It is a place to see and experience the best of El Bierzo and whatever is left of its amazing beauty.

History

It was in Las Medulas where Ruina Montium was developed. This Roman mining technique has been around since 77 A.D. It was a type of hydraulic mining system. Although quite dangerous, it has become a source of economic revenue for the region. It was Ruina Montium that made it possible for El Bierzo to become the most important gold mine.

In 1997, Las Medulas was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is now a cultural park where local and foreign tourists alike explore as an example of a good research management society.

Cost

There is no word about the specific cost visitors need to pay to enter the Las Medulas Cultural Park. One thing is for sure, though. That amount is but minimal and is sure worth every cent because of the beauty that lies within.

Las Medulas is an interesting place that will provide you with an overview of the regions mining heritage.

Other Info

Researches were made in Las Medulas since 1980s. As a result, it was instantly transformed into a cultural landscape where details about Roman mining were explored. At the moment, Las Medulas Cultural Park is managed and supervised by the Las Medulas Foundation It is responsible for the preservation and monitoring of the site, making sure that it will still be available for future explorations of generations to come.

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Island of Santorini – Greece is perhaps the most popular island in the country

The Island of Santorini – Greece is perhaps the most popular island in the country; offering romantic getaways for couples, beach holidays for the entire family and idyllic settings for those looking to get a bit of rest and relaxation.

Location

The Island of Santorini – Greece sits along the southern shores of the Aegean Sea, lying between the islands of Ios and Anafi.

Getting There

Flying in is via the international airport located in Athens, the Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport – a newly-constructed airport opened in 2001.

From Athens, the easiest and fastest way to reach the Island of Santorini – Greece is via a local flight into the Santorini National Airport. The flight will take about 30 minutes.

However, if you will be flying in between the months of May and October, there are direct flights going to Santorini, from a good number of airports around Europe such as Germany, London, Zurich, Milan and Brussels.

You can also arrive at the Santorini port via cruise ships. Ferries are also available from other islands in Greece.

What to See and Do

The Island of Santorini – Greece has a good number of villages and towns, each offering something special for tourists. Oia or Ia for instance, is very famous for its beautiful sunset views.

This picturesque, quaint town has served as an inspiration for a good many artists. There are restaurants around the Caldera where you can watch the sunset as you enjoy your favorite local drink.

If you would like to see the Black Pebble Beach, then head off to Kamari; and if you want to visit a beach that is ideal for both kids and adults, then you should head to Monolithos as the waters here are relatively shallow.

There are plenty of other beaches around the island and you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in these beaches during your holiday here.

The island is also famous for its wines and you can visit some of the wineries here and even taste a few samples.

You can likewise visit the Museum of Pre-Historic Thira as well as the Archeological Museum, which are both located in Fira.

Brief History

The Island of Santorini – Greece, also known as Thira, has an estimated area of 96 square kilometers and 69 kilometers of coastline. In earlier times, prior to the volcanic eruption, the island was circular in shape.

A volcanic eruption however completely destroyed the core of the island, causing it to sink under the sea. This in turn resulted in the now famous caldera of the island.

The first volcanic eruption occurred some time in 1500 BC. This particular eruption is believed to have been the cause of the destruction of Crete’s Minoan civilization.

The volcano hasn’t erupted since its last activity in the year 1956.

Cost

Public buses around the island cost between 1.40 and 2 Euros. If you would like to rent a car, this costs about 45 Euros per day. Bikes can also be rented and these cost about 7 Euros per day.

For diving and snorkeling, dive centers offer two dives for around 80 Euros inclusive of dive equipment.

On the other hand, if you would like to purchase snorkeling gear, you can get a mask for around 10 Euros and fins for about 20 Euros.

Other Information

The Island of Santorini – Greece does not have its own water source hence; it is important to remember to drink bottled water at all times. Also, wear sunscreen when going out as the sun can be pretty hot in these parts of Greece.

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