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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Amsterdam has many historical sights and museums, the most notable of which is the Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands. Rembrandt lived in Amsterdam some time in the mid-1600s and his home now serves as a museum.

 

Location

The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands is located at Jodenbreestraat 4, right in the center of the city.

Getting There

There are two means of public transport that you can take to reach the Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands: Metro or tram. You can take the Metro to get to the Central Station in Amsterdam. From the station, it is only a short walk to the museum.

If you are taking the tram, you can take tram number 9 or tram number 14, both of which stop at the Waterlooplein stop. From here, you can walk to the museum.

What to See and Do

The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands exhibits Rembrandt’s etchings. Out of his two hundred and ninety etchings, two hundred and sixty of these are on display.

These etchings take on various themes, from landscapes to self-portraits, portraits, nudes and even Biblical scenes. His landscapes include “Three Farmhouses Along a Road,” circa 1650; “Cottage with a Haybarn,” circa 1641 and “Jan Six’s Bridge” circa 1645.

Among his portraits are that of his friend, “Abraham Francen,” circa 1657, “Jan Cornelius Sylvius,” circa 1633 whose niece, Saskia, Rembrandt was to marry when he made the etching, and “Saskia with Pearls in Her Hair” circa 1634.

There are also exhibits of paintings done by artists prior to Rembrandt moving into the city.

Brief History

The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands was the former house of Rembrandt when he lived in Amsterdam, between the years 1639 and 1658.

The building was originally constructed for Cornelis van der Voort who was a renowned Dutch Golden Age painter whose specialization was portraits. This was constructed between the years 1606 and 1607.

The Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands was officially opened to the public on the 10th of June in the year 1911, by Queen Wilhelmina.

It was decided that the museum was to be the home of Rembrandt’s etchings, upon the recommendation of Jan Veth, himself a painter.

The very first gift presented to the museum was the etching “St. Jerome Beside a Pollard Willow.”

Cost

The cost to visit the Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands is 10 Euros for adults, 8 Euros per person for a group of 15 or more persons, and 3 Euros for kids 6 years up to 17 years of age.

Children below six years old are free of charge.

Other Information

Rembrandt House Museum in Amsterdam – Netherlands is open everyday from 10 in the morning up to 5 in the afternoon. The museum is closed every 1st of January.

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Rome is a large city in Italy

Rome is a large city and is divided into several different districts. One of these districts is called the North Center and here, you will find Piazza del Popolo in Rome – Italy.

 

Location

Piazza del Popolo in Rome – Italy is located in the northern tip of the city simply known as North Center. It is between the Pincian Hill and the Tevere River.

Getting There

You can reach Piazza del Popolo in Rome – Italy via the Metro or taking a bus ride into North Center.

If you will be taking the Metro, take Metro Line A which stops directly at the piazza. For a bus ride, take bus number 117 which will go through San Giovanni, the Colosseum, Piazza di Spagna and then finally to Piazza del Popolo.

What to See

Upon entering the premises of the urban square known as Piazza del Popolo in Rome – Italy, you will instantly notice an imposing Egyptian obelisk that stands in its center.

This obelisk is from the ancient city of Egypt, Heliopolis, and was constructed during the reigns of Sety I and Ramesses II. The obelisk alone is already a sight to behold and its historical significance adds to its charm and attraction.

The Popolo Obelisk is the 2nd oldest obelisk in Rome and is also the tallest of all obelisks found in Rome.

The square is also dominated by the “twin churches” of Santa Maria in Montesanto, constructed between the years 1662 and 1675; and Santa Maria dei Miracoli, constructed between the years 1675 and 1679.

There are also two fountains flanking the piazza; one on the west side and one on the east side.

The Fountain of Neptune, otherwise known as Fontana di Nettuno is on the western side while the eastern side has Mars flanked by the river gods known as Tiber and Anio.

Standing in the middle of the piazza are four smaller fountains collectively known as Fontana dell’ Obelisco. Each fountain is guarded by a lion sitting on a plinth.

Brief History

The Piazza del Popolo in Rome – Italy that stands today was designed by Guiseppe Valadier, an Italian architect. He used the Neo-Classical architectural design and worked on this from 1811 up to 1822.

He took out the fountain constructed in the year 1572 by Italian sculptor and architect, Giacomo della Porta. He likewise took down a few other structures that he deemed insignificant to the layout he had in mind.

Valadier also envisioned the piazza as a square that links to the stature of the Pincian Hill.

Cost

There is no cost to visit the Piazza del Popolo in Rome – Italy. There are accommodations around the piazza and these cost about US$ 128 per room, per night up to US$ 589; depending on which hotel you will be staying in.

Tickets for the Metro or bus cost about 1 Euro per ride.

Other Information

Tickets for the Metro or buses should be bought from a Tabacchi, a local tobacco shop that sells the tickets. These usually have a large “T” sign so they will be hard to miss.

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The Sea Museum in Klaipeda is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Republic of Lithuania. With its mission statement of exploring, enjoying and preserving harmony with the sea, the museum is a truly family-friendly institution that is both fun and educational at the same time.

Location and How to Get There

The Lithuanian Sea Museum is located at the town of Smiltyne in Klaipeda, Lithuania. One can get to Smiltyne by ferry through either the Old Ferry Terminal, which is 1,800 m from the museum, or the New Ferry Terminal, which is 7 km away. During the summertime, there is a mini-train that runs from the Old Ferry Terminal to the Sea Museum, as well as a horse-driven coach. Also in the summer season are passenger boats to the museum, departing from the River Dane near the Old Ferry Terminal. For those traveling by car or buses, there is a free parking lot next to the museum, which accommodates 70 cars and 8 buses.

What to See There

Among the main attractions in the Lithuanian Sea Museum is its Aquarium, which boasts of 33 tanks exhibiting 40 species of fish from the rivers and lakes of Lithuania, as well as from the Baltic Sea and both fresh and tropical waters. Another popular attraction is the Dolphinarium, a massive arena that showcases amazing performances by trained dolphins and sea lions. The museum also has expositions devoted to sea mammals such as seals, and sea birds, mainly penguins. But aside from marine animals, the Sea Museum also features the Exposition on the History of Navigation, which documents the developments in Lithuanian maritime travel throughout the ages.

History

The building that currently houses the Lithuanian Sea Museum was originally the Nerija fort, a sea fortress that had been built during the latter half of the 19th century. The fortress was partly destroyed in the end of World War 2, but would later be restored from 1973 to 1979. It was during this period that the Klaipeda Sea Museum was founded on October 1, 1975. The restored Nerija fort officially opened as the Lithuanian Sea Museum on July 28, 1979.

Cost

The admission price into the Lithuanian Sea Museum varies according to period. Adults are charged 10 LT (Litas) during the months of May and September to April, and 12 LT from June to August. Children from 4 years old above, as well as students and retired citizens of the EU (European Union) get in for 5 LT during May and September to April, and 6 LT from June to August.

Other Info

The opening hours of the Lithuanian Sea Museum also change periodically. From April 18 to May 31 and September 1 to October 12, the museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. In June and August 18 to 31, it opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM. From July 1 to August 17, it likewise opens Tuesday to Sunday, but from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM. From October 13 to April 18, it is open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on the holidays of January 1, November 1, and December 25..

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Canterbury in Canterbury City – England

A trip to Canterbury in England will take you back to medieval Europe. Many of the structures have been well preserved, providing the visitor a glimpse of the past.

How to Get There

If you are in London, just head to M2 South and East. Keep going until it joins up with A2. This joins the town with Sittingbourne, Gillingham and Chatham on the north. On the south is Dover port.

There are also two train stations: Canterbury West and Canterbury East. These are 4 and 8 minutes away from the center of the city. From London, the journey will take anywhere from 90 minutes to a couple of hours. You can also take a coach. These are available in Dover and the London Victoria Coach Station.

What to See on a Trip to Canterbury in England

The Dane John Gardens almost always has an event taking place during the summer. Most of them involve farmers selling and making food. At Main Street’s east end are subways with Canterbury Tales paintings. The Cathedral holds the remains of Edward the Black Prince and King Henry IV. It is also the sight of Thomas Becket’s murder.

St Martin’s Church, the oldest in the UK, is also in the town. There are also the ruins of a Norman castle dating from the 11th century. One of the biggest attractions is Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction “Medieval Misadventures.” This is a reconstruction of the UK in the 14th century. They are based on the characters of Chaucer’s stories.

History

The town suffered extensive damage during the Blitz of WWII. Despite this, most of the buildings have been preserved or rebuilt. The murder of Thomas a-Becket turned it into a pilgrimage site. During the medieval age, it was known as Cantwarebyrig. The town of course, is best known as the backdrop of Geoffrey Chaucer’s story which came out in 1387.

Cost

Taxis to the town cost 2.50 Pounds for the first half mile. An extra 10p is added for every 126 yards (114.5 meters). An extra 50% is added for hiring between 12 min and 7:00 am.

The Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction “Medieval Misadventures” cost 6.95 Pounds for adults, 5.25 for children and 5.95 for students. 5.95 is also the charge for seniors.

If you are going on a trip to Canterbury in England, remember the following too. The admission fee is 2.80 Pounds for the Roman Museum. For a whole family it is 7.20 Pounds (2 adults, three kids).

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Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia

Jurmala is a city in the country of Latvia famous for its long stretch of white, sandy beaches.

Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia provides for a romantic getaway for couples and beach destination for families.

 

Location

Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia is about twenty-five kilometers off the western section of the country’s capita city of Riga.

Getting There

The fastest and easiest way to reach Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia is via Riga. You can take a train or a minibus to reach the beaches of Jurmala.

Trains are at the Riga Central Train Terminal and these leave for Jurmala every twenty minutes or so. For the minibuses, you can find these at the Central Bus Terminal and these leave for the resort town every five minutes or so.

You can also take a taxi going into the resort town but this is more expensive.

What to See and Do

One of the major attractions of Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia is its fine, white sands. Its long stretch of beaches means that there will be plenty of room for everyone to enjoy their beach and water sports.

Beach volleyball and beach football are popular sports here and in fact, competitions for these two are held in the beaches of this resort town.

If beach sports are not your thing, there is always swimming in the waters. The waters here are shallow and calm so the kids can also enjoy swimming here.

There are likewise water bicycles that you can rent so you can ride down the waters with the kids, your friends or your partner.

You can also lounge by the beach side, build sand castles with the kids and watch the sunset with the whole family.

Brief History

Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia has over thirty-two kilometers of white, sandy beaches set against a backdrop of lush forests. The crystal-clear waters are shallow although they could be a bit cold on most days.

Jurmala lies in the middle of the Riga Gulf and the Lielupe River and ranks in 5th as the largest city in the country.

Perhaps owing to its close proximity to the capital city of Riga, Jurmala was once part of this capital city before it became an independent city of its own.

Cost

There is no entry fee to gain access to Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia. Accommodations around this resort town range from 30 up to 800 Euros for resort hotels.

Guest houses range from 10 up to more than 1,000 Euros, hostels cost about 9 up to 20 Euros while camping is around 10 up to 50 Euros.

Other Information

There are other attractions close to Jurmala Beach in Jurmala – Latvia. These include the Baznica Church designed in Art Nouveau style, a water theme park, the Kemeri National Park plus a good number of pubs and restaurants.

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Museum Ludwig in Cologne – Germany

The Museum Ludwig in Cologne is one of the must-see attractions in all of Germany. The features of the museum are such that even people who do not usually go to museums will love it.

 

Location

The museum is at Cologne. You will find that it is just behind a cathedral. Any of the public transportation in the city can take you there.

What to See

The museum is a repository of contemporary art. The subject matters range from surrealism, abstract to PopArt. It also boasts of one of the most extensive collections of Picasso works. Visitors will also get to see the masterpieces of Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol.

The Museum Ludwig in Cologne has a large collection of expressionist works. Artists represented include Otto Mueller, August Macke, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Karl Schmidt-Rottluff and Erich Heckel. Classical modernism is represented as well with Otto Dix and Marc Chagall among others.

Some of the most eye catching works here are the Warhol Marilyns. Visitors will also see the works by David Hockney and Jasper Johns. At the upper level, you will also see pieces by Dali. Well known art pieces like George Segals “Restaurant Window” and Andy Warhols “Brillo Boxes” can be seen here.

The museum has over 900 Picasso masterpieces. It is the third biggest collection of Picasso works on the planet. The only ones bigger are in Barcelona and Paris.

History

The museum was established in 1976. That same year Peter Ludwig donated his art pieces on the condition the city would build a museum for art works made after 1900. The edifice was designed by Godfrid Haberer and Peter Busmann.

The museum opened in 1986. Aside from the Ludwig collection, the museum also became the home of the Wallraf Richartz collection. It was in 1994 when they decided the institutions would be separated. The edifice is encompassed by the Heinrich-Boll-Platz square.

Cost

A day ticket with special exhibits will cost 10 Euros per adult. The family ticket costs 18 Euros. Note that the prices can change anytime.

Other Info

Peter Ludwig (after whom the museum is named) donated his Russian avant garde collection to the museum. Over 600 masterpieces were given. These include works by Alexander Rodchenko, Michail Larianov and Natalia Goncharova. The works of Ljubov Popova and Kasimir Malevich can also be seen.

The Museum Ludwig in Cologne is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm. It is closed on Mondays.

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Mileseva Monastery in Prijepolje – Serbia

The Mileseva Monastery is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Serbia. If you are visiting the country, this is one of those places you will want to visit.

 

Location

This Orthodox monastery is located in Prijepolje. This is at the southwest of the country. The monastery is situated at the Mileseva river close to Prijepolje.

What to See

The most famous features of the complex are the frescoes, which were created by some of the best artists of the time. One of the art pieces in the church is the famous White Angel. This shows an angel over the grave of Jesus.

There are several types of frescoes, but the best are those dating from the 13th century. The artwork depicts the bishops, martyrs and warrior saints. The narthex depicts the monks. The narthex upper registers show the earthly life of Jesus.

The Mileseva Monastery also has a composition about the Resurrection. At the west bay south wall is a portrait of King Radolav with Jesus leading him to Mary.

History

The monastery was established sometime between 1234 and 1236 by King Vladislav. In 1236, the king relocated the relics at Trnovo and placed them in the monastery. There are some historians who believe that the crowning of King Tvrtko I happened in the monastery as well.

During the 15th century, the monastery became the seat of power of the Metropolitanate of Dabar-Bosnia. The monastery was partially destroyed when the Turks set it on fire in 1459. However, it was quickly rebuilt.

By the 16th century, schools had already existed at the monastery. It was during the time that the narthex was decorated. Another renovation took place in 1863 following numerous Turkish attacks. In 1979, it was declared a Monument of Culture of Exceptional Importance.

Cost

Visits to the monastery are usually included in tours of Serbia. The most basic tours will probably cost under a hundred Euros. If you are more interested in the 7 day long tours, the cost will be around 1,000 Euros at least. This will include trips to other tourist attractions nearby.

Other Info

The northeastern narthex depicts the Nemanjic family. Stefan Nemanja is shown as the monk Simeon. The first archbishop is Sava. There are also frescoes at the chapel and the narthex. These were created in the 1230s.

The Mileseva Monastery also has illustrations of the Last Judgment. The saints are also displayed prominently. The complex is dedicated to the Ascension of Our Lord.

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Triglav National Park – Slovenia

Triglav National Park is a very popular destination among lovers of outdoor adventures. The park now receives over two million visitors.

 

Location

The park encompasses almost all the Slovenian portion of the Julian Alps. It borders Austria at the north and Italy on the west. There are buses from Ljubljana located at the southeast portion of the park. The journey from Bled takes half an hour.

What to See

The Vintgar Gorge has a footbridge path going back to the late 1800s. This goes on for 1600 m by the River Radovna. There is also the lovely Lake Bohinj, enveloped by the Julian Alps. This is only 7 km from the Bled. The Pokljuka Ravine is another popular site in Triglav National Park. This formation is etched at the limestone.

Visitors can also check out the Savica Waterfall, the source of the Soca River and the Pericnik Waterfall. There is also the very impressive Kluze Fortress set over the Koritnica River gorge.

The Church of St. John the Baptist is famous for its frescoes. A well known activity is the Kravji Bal (Cows Ball) festival. This is a celebration of cattle that have returned to pasture. The celebration features plenty of music, drinking and retelling of legends, folk and myth about the country.

History

As early as 1906, it was already suggested by Prof. Albin Belar to preserve the site. But it was only in 1924 that the Alpine Conservation Park was created. The park was established in 1961. The original site was expanded in 1981 to the present boundaries. The succeeding years saw the park grow in popularity around the world.

Cost

The admission fee is 4 Euros per adult. For students, pensioners and children over 5 years of age, the fee is 3 Euros. A family ticket costs 10 Euros (two adults, two children).

Other Info

Visitors to the site can also climb Mount Triglav. The mountain is easy to climb and will take no more than a day. You can also try the Vogel Cable Car Ride. The ride offers excellent vistas of the mountains and lakes. When you get to the summit, drop by the ski slopes. The Soca River is a well known site for rafting.

In 2003, Triglav National Park was made part of the UNESCO MaB (Man and Biosphere) network. For those who plan on staying awhile, there are good accommodations at Bovec, Kranjska Gora and Bled.

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National Museum in Sultan Park – Maldives

The National Museum in Sultan Park, Maldives is definitely a must-see for tourists who want a glimpse of the country’s beautiful past. It houses important historical artifacts that will give you a good look at the distant past of Maldives from the pre-Islamic times, all throughout the rule of Islamic monarchs, and down towards the modern-day.

Location and How to Get There

The National Museum is situated in Sultan Park, Male, a small garden that has been part of the Maldivian Royal Palace compound since the 17th century.

Since the museum (and the park!) is in the center of Maldivian tourism, getting there should never be a problem. The Sultan Park sits opposite the world famous Islamic Centre, which is so huge it hosted many important international events already. The park is located along Medhuziyaaraiy Magu street. You can take a taxi to get there.

What to See There

The National Museum in Sultan Park keeps a memorabilia that will best describe Maldives’ past. There are numerous artifacts on display, which range from ancient times’ stone objects to even pricey and pricelss possessions of the members of royalty.

 

It also helps a lot that the museum was situated right in the middle of an amazing park that serves as a refuge for the Maldivian’s hectic lifestyle. The park in itself offers an amazing collection – of flora and picturesque landscapes — that will keep you in awe.

History

The National Museum in Sultan Park was put together during the time of Prime Minister Mohamed Amin Didi in 1952. The intention was to preserve the national history and call upon patriotism among the locals.

The three-story structure that was used to house the artifacts is actually an old palace building that was converted to feature the cultural heritage of the country.

Cost

Visiting the National Museum in Sultan Park is free of charge. However, you have to abide by the rules and regulations in effect so as not to make any scene in the site. The only thing you have to spend for is your transportation. You might want to hire a taxi or allow your travel agent take care of everything for you by booking for a tour.

Other Info

The National Museum in Sultan Park is open from 8am to 6pm everyday except for Fridays when it only opens from 4pm to 6pm. During public holidays, the museum is closed.

Also, you must take note that visitors are only allowed to roam around the museum area for the duration of 30 to 60 minutes. After that, you can just sit around the park and enjoy the scenic ambiance

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Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania

The Apuseni Mountains are part of the Western Carpathians mountain range in Transylvania. Within these Apuseni Mountains are hundreds of caves – approximately four hundred in all; and the most famous of these caves is the Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania.

Location

Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania is located within the commune of Garda de Sus, in the northwestern section of Alba District. It is approximately forty kilometers off Campeni.

Getting There

You can take a bus or train from major cities around Transylvania which can take you to Alba and Garda de Sus. From here, you can see the track that leads to the Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania.

The track is not accessible by car so you will have to walk several kilometers to reach the entrance to the cave.

What to See and Do

Once you get to the entrance of the Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania, you will have to go down a shaft which is about 48 meters deep to gain access to the main chamber which is called the Big Hall.

From this point, you can see entry points that leads to what is called as the Church, the Big Reservation, the Coman Gallery and the Small Reservation. Being the one of the biggest ice caves within the Apuseni Mountains, you can see hundreds of stalagmites as you pass along the trails to explore the cave.

You may also come across a good number of bats as you explore the cave as bats have been known to reside in this cave.

Brief History

There is no existing evidence as to the exact date when the Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania was discovered. However, Austrian geographer Arnold Schmidl who explored the cave was the first to acknowledge the existence of the cave and map-out its interiors.

In the years 1921 up to 1923, Romanian scientist Emil Racovit? did his own explorations of the cave.

It is believed that the cave came into existence some three thousand and five hundred years ago.

Cost

Entry fee to visit the Scarisoara Cave in Apuseni Mountains – Romania is about €1.50 for each adult and €1 for each child.

For accommodations, there is a hostel about 750 meters from the cave site and rooms here cost about €8 for single occupancy and €16 for double occupancy. Meals are priced as follows: €3 for breakfast, €5 for lunch and €4 for dinner.

If you wish to explore the surrounding area, you can go on a horse ride for €60 per day.

Other Information

The cave is not well-lit hence; visitors are advised to bring their own torch or lamp; or secure one from the gate keeper.

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Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia

Postojna is within the Coast and Karst Region of the country of Slovenia whose main attractions are a Karst cave and a sixteenth century castle.

The Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia attracts tourists from all over the world annually and is considered as a “must-see” when visiting Postojna.

Location

Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia lies about nine kilometers from the northern section of Postojna.

Getting There

Flying in to Slovenia, your best option is the international airport located in Ljubljana. From here, you can take a car hire service, bus or train to reach Postojna.

If you are driving, simply follow the A1 Highway until you reach Postojna. When you get to Postojna, there are sign posts that you can follow to reach Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia.

If you will be arriving by bus or train, you can get a ride with the free shuttle services available at the train station in Postojna. These ply the route going to the castle.

What to See and Do

A visit to Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia will take you through various rooms where traditional furnishings, various historical artifacts and a wide variety of artwork are on display.

Guests find the living quarters and the dungeon as highly interesting sections of the castle – these, plus the chapel.

The castle sits in the middle of a cliff which makes it look even more grand. There is a passageway that you can follow which will take you to an observation deck where you can see a spectacular view of the castle’s natural surroundings.

Brief History

Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia is surrounded by an interesting legend.

It is said that the owner of the castle, Knight Erazem Lueger, who had control of the castle during the fifteenth century; used it as a hideout to ward-off an attack by Frederick III, a Holy Roman Emperor.

Bad blood was created between him and the Habsburg establishment when he apparently killed Marshall Pappencheim – a commander of the Imperial Army.

Erazem avoided capture by the Governor of Trieste and his men for about a year by using a secret tunnel that gave him passage to a nearby village where he would get his supplies.

A servant betrayed Erazem which finally led to his death. Apparently, he was using the toilet when the servant gave the signal and a cannonball was launched in his direction.

Thus, legend goes that Erazem was killed “with his pants down.”

Cost

The cost to visit Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia is €8 for adults and €5 for kids.

Other Information

Predjama Castle in Postojna – Slovenia is open everyday, from ten in the morning up to four in the afternoon. Kids’ fees are applicable to children aged 6 years up to 15 years old only.

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Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland

Helsinki has numerous churches, each one playing an important role in the city’s religious history as well as its present-day religious practices.

Among these churches is the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland, said to be the largest Orthodox church in all of Western Europe.

 

Location

Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland is located at Kanavakatu 1, close to the Market Square. It sits atop a hillside on the peninsula of Katajanokka.

Getting There

Getting around Helsinki is fairly easy as the city is well-served by an excellent public transportation system.

One of the most popular means of going around the city is the tram and if you are visiting Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland, take Tram Number 4 which will get you to the nearest point of the cathedral.

You can also take trams 3B and 3T as these go around the city, passing through the most popular landmarks here including the Orthodox Cathedral.

You can also opt to get a taxi for a more private and comfortable means of reaching the cathedral, but be prepared to pay at the very least, 5.10 Euros plus an additional 1.33 Euros per kilometer.

What to See and Do

The façade of the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland takes on the classical Russian-Byzantine architectural style. There are thirteen onion-shaped domes adorning the top of the cathedral, symbolizing the 12 Apostles and Jesus Christ.

Being the largest church of its kind in Western Europe, the imposing structure is both breathtaking and awe-inspiring.

Inside the church, you can see numerous religious icons adorning the walls and the corners of the cathedral. The miraculous icon of Saint Nicolas, the Wonder Maker used to be housed here before it was stolen in 2007.

Elegant chandeliers hang from the ceiling.

Brief History

The Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland was constructed between the years 1862 and 1868. It design was made by a Russian architect by the name of Alexey Gornostaev. Work on the cathedral however, started after the architect’s death.

The cathedral was modeled after a sixteenth century church in Russia.

The bricks used to build the church were brought in from the Bomarsund Fortress located in the Aland islands, as this fortress had already been destroyed, being a casualty of war in the year 1854.

Cost

There is no entry fee to gain access to the Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland.

Other Information

The Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral in Helsinki – Finland is open from Monday to Friday; from 9:30 in the morning up to 4 in the afternoon. Saturdays, it is open from 9:30 in the morning up to 2 in the afternoon and on Sundays, from 12 noon up to 3 in the afternoon.

Between the months of October to April the following year, the cathedral is closed on Mondays.

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Riga in Jugendstil Metropolis – Latvia

The tourist attractions at Riga is the main reason why Latvia has become one of the top travel destinations in Europe. It is the capital of Latvia and has about 50% of the population of the country.

 

Location

Riga International Airport is served by several international airlines. There are also bus connections from Lithuania, Estonia and other cities in the Baltic. Tallink runs a ferry service from the Latvian capital and Stockholm.

What to See

The Freedom Monument is one of the main national symbols in the country. You can also visit the Museum Jews in Latvia and Jewish Community, near the Freedom Monument. Architecture aficionados will want to visit the streets of Elizabetes and Alberta where they can see the works of Eisenstein.

At Esplanade Park, you will see the Orthodox Cathedral and the National Museum of Art. This is the place to view works by Latvian artists. This is one of the biggest tourist attractions at Riga. Also worth checking out are the Railway Museum, the Aviation Museum and the Latvian National Opera building.

History

Albert of Bremen established the city in 1201. It was designed to be a base for Northern Crusades. During the days of the Hanseatic League, it became a major trade center. In 1522, the Reformation came to the land, ending the rule of the bishops. The city would become part of Sweden and then the Empire of Russia.

During World War II, the city was bombed, but the ruins were eventually rebuilt by the government. This would boost tourism. The city would become the capital of Latvia. It would remain the capital of the city even after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Cost

The cost of the ferry fares begin at 103 Euros. The typical train rides cost 85 LVL. There are cheaper train fares at 25 LVL, but there is not much in terms of amenities. Budget and moderate hotels will have starting costs of 25 Euros up to 45 Euros.

Other Info

The Central Market can be found right next to the international bus station. You can buy fresh fruits and vegetables here. Some of the stalls sell clothes and souvenir items. The Mezaparks are filled with elegant homes dating from the pre-war era.

The zoo is one of the more popular tourist attractions at Riga. You can also drop by the Motor Musem and the Ethnographic Open Air Museum. It has exhibits about traditional Latvian houses.

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