Page 36 – A Brit and A Southerner

What to Do in Luxembourg? 5 Awesome Landmarks!

Luxembourg

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Feb 22, 2016

What to Do in Luxembourg? 5 Awesome Landmarks!

Europe is blessed to have a number of countries that immediately attracts visitors from all corners of the globe. From Paris to London to Rome to Berlin, the history throughout the continent of Europe is endless. However, what about the lesser known nations that frequently are forgotten? Countries such as Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg are nations that are unlikely to be top of many bucket lists. Spending time in two of these smaller countries has now proven that they are extremely worthwhile. Having already visited Liechtenstein, our attention switched to Luxembourg. ‘What to do in Luxembourg’ is the million dollar question that you every right to ask!

Hopefully, after reading this post, you will be able to answer this question and perhaps you will be inspired to add this nation to your next European adventure. Regardless of your future travel plans, I hope you will appreciate the rich history that lies within the medieval walls of Luxembourg City. Keep reading to learn more about this historic nation!

Why Explore Luxembourg?

The final leg of our Eurail journey saw us travel from Zurich, Switzerland to Amsterdam, Netherlands. This was a perfect opportunity to explore Luxembourg! Luxembourg is a country that neither of us knew much about except that it is located in the heart of Europe by Germany, France and Belgium.

Having previously spent a day in the beautiful municipality of Liechtenstein, our opinion on these less recognized nations is far from the typical stereotype.

Luxembourg may be small, but it’s certainly worth a visit. The convenient location makes this nation worth experiencing, even if it is only for a few hours or a day while you move between some of Europe’s more infamous countries.

Luxembourg City used to be a fortress city which was completely surrounded by high stone walls, and although the fortress no longer exists, the stone walls remain and are both a historians and architects dream. More on this particular feature later.

Politically speaking, Luxembourg is one of smallest sovereign nations in Europe but proudly possesses the world’s only remaining grand duchy (led by a Grand Duke rather than a King/Queen/President).

Our time was spent in Luxembourg’s capital, Luxembourg City so the following guide only provides details on attractions and landmarks there. I am intrigued to see what is outside of this urban area because if it offers as much beauty and history as the capital, I am sure there will be even more reasons to visit this country.

Casemates du Bock

Luxembourg’s most iconic landmark has to be the Casemates du Bock. The fortified walls that are present today date back to the 10th century when Count Siegfried built a fortified castle. This location quickly became one of the most powerful strongholds throughout Europe and was renowned as the ‘Gibraltar of the North’ given that defenses here were so strong.

For over 900 years this fortress was preserved, until 1867 after the declaration of neutrality when the majority of the defenses were destroyed. The decision was made to maintain the Casemates rather than destroy them, primarily because they were connected to so many other features and tunnel systems that destroying them would have caused so much destruction to the city as a whole.

But what exactly are the ‘casemates’? Casemate is derived from a Greek word meaning chasm and is essentially a bomb-proof vaulted room intended to protect military personnel and equipment.

17 kilometers of tunnels exist and guided tours plunge visitors deep into these casemates with stories waiting to be discovered at every turn. It’s no surprise that UNESCO identified this as a World Heritage site in 1994.

We enjoyed exploring and learning more about this iconic Luxembourg attraction and look forward to heading back in the summer months to delve deeper into the tunnels and experience the real history here.

Adolphe Bridge and La Passerelle Viaduct

If you love architecture, whether it be modern or traditional, the Adolphe Bridge in Luxembourg City will surely spark your interest. The gorgeous bridge takes traffic across the Pétrusse and is almost 140 feet above the valley floor. Construction started at the turn of the 20th century and was completed in 1903.

To commemorate the late Grand Duke Adolphe, the stunning piece of architecture was named directly after the former monarch. Locally known as ‘Pont Adolphe’, this bridge once held a world record for having the longest stone arch bridge at 153 meters. However, this title didn’t last long as in 1905 a German bridge soon surpassed this.

We walked across the nearby La Passerelle viaduct which is also a stunning piece of architectural ingenuity. This is in close proximity to Adolphe Bridge and connects Avenue de la Gare to the Franklin D. Roosevelt boulevard.

This viaduct dates back to the mid-19th century and is renowned as the ‘Old Bridge’ while the Adolphe Bridge is the ‘New Bridge’.

When you compare the two bridges, it’s interesting to notice the design characteristics of both and whether you are an architecture aficionado or simply a passerby, it’s hard not to appreciate Luxembourg’s two gorgeous bridges that play such an integral focal point in day to day life.

Grand Ducal Palace

I mentioned earlier that although Luxembourg is one of the smaller nations throughout Europe, it remains as the only nation with a grand duchy. The official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg is the Grand Ducal Palace and undoubtedly offers one of the most beautiful spectacles throughout the city.

The facade of the palace is breathtaking and the majestic interior can actually be visited during guided tours that take place in the summer months. It’s not every day that you get to explore a palace that is still a royal residence!

If exploring the Grand Ducal Palace is not enough, just a short walk from here is the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral so both of these landmarks are certainly worth a visit to Luxembourg City on their own.

Monument of National Solidarity

Our tour of Luxembourg City continued at the Monument of National Solidarity after walking across the Adolphe Bridge. Located on Canon Hill a short walk from the bridge, this towering monument was constructed in 1971 and serves as a commemoration for those that fought in the Second World War.

This iconic landmark is more than just a monument. It offers the people of Luxembourg a memory of how the nation fought back and resisted Nazi intrusion, but today perhaps the most impressive feature of this is where it is located and the stunning views that are available across the Pétrusse valley.

An eternal flame burns in front of the monument depicting the everlasting memory of those lives that were tragically lost while other features here represent varying aspects of World War II.

Monument of Remembrance

Just a short walk from the Monument of National Solidarity is Gëlle Fra (Golden Lady) which is another important landmark in representing Luxembourg history. This Monument of Remembrance is a perfect companion to the Monument of National Solidarity as it remembers those in the Great War (World War I).

The 21-meter tall obelisk is the focal point though the bronze statue of a lady sitting on top of this tower represents the Greek goddess of victory, Nike!

Summary

Even if you don’t have much time to spend in Luxembourg, as you can see there is enough to keep you occupied. The capital city is steeped with rich history and this is reflected throughout the architecture and medieval remnants that are still apparent scattered among more modern designs.

Although Luxembourg may not be a country that you would visit without plans to experience a bordering nation, you should certainly consider adding this to your itinerary even if it is just a day trip. Hopefully, this quick guide will give you a few ideas of what to do in Luxembourg and you will have as great a time as we did…even if the weather is not always favorable (remember you are in Europe!)

Have you visited Luxembourg or any of Europe’s ‘other’ small nations?

24 Hours in Vienna – What to See in the Austrian Capital?

Austria

Chris Boothman

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Feb 18, 2016

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24 Hours in Vienna – What to See in the Austrian Capital?

If you have read many of our recent posts, you will know that our recent trip to Europe was a fast and furious journey through a variety of beautiful cities and iconic destinations. Given this fast pace, we were limited to the amount of time we could spend in each of our chosen ‘stopovers’, one of which was the Austrian capital, Vienna. 24 hours in Vienna? Just like any other European city, Vienna offers a myriad of historic landmarks and attractions worth experiencing and despite our time constraints, we were able to explore much of the downtown district.

Although many European cities offer guided walking tours, Vienna was one city we opted for a self-guided tour, so after checking into our hotel just north of the River Danube, we headed back to the historic center with our pocket maps in hand. Our only previous experience in Austria was a short visit to Innsbruck the previous year which was enough to suggest our time in Vienna would be enjoyable and intriguing.

24 Hours in Vienna – The City of Music

Vienna’s reputation as being the ‘City of Music’, most notably given that Mozart resided here for three years, meant that much of our focus was going to be on finding some of the historic features that made this such an attractive city for aspiring musicians. After exploring Vienna, it’s not difficult to understand why such great music was composed along the banks of the Danube in Vienna.

Depending on how much time you have to spend in Vienna, this will determine how much is a realistic amount to explore. Having researched some of the best things to do in Vienna, we were ready to head out and start exploring everything the Austrian capital had to offer for ourselves.

We spent the majority of the day in Vienna’s Old Town and why not, given that the area itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site! Of course, we were eager to find Mozart’s former residence but at the same time explore some of the prestigious, Baroque-inspired castles and other stunning architectural designs around the city.

24 hours isn’t very much time to try and fit everything into a schedule, but Vienna is fortunate to have a myriad of landmarks in close proximity to each other.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

The focal point of Vienna’s Old Town is located right in the heart of the district. St. Stephen’s Cathedral dates back to the 13th-century and is certainly the iconic symbol of Vienna. At over 136 meters tall, the main tower overlooks the rest of the city and offers gorgeous panoramic views (though climbing the 343 steps to the summit may not be for the faint-hearted).

The Gothic design of St. Stephen’s Cathedral makes this one of the most important architectural structures throughout Austria. Today, there is very little left of the ‘original’ 13th-century structure, though the massive gate and Heathen Towers are still preserved to their original state.

Beautiful, ornate details are common throughout the design of this cathedral but perhaps the most breathtaking and memorable feature is the main entrance known locally as ‘Riesentor’ (Giant’s Door/Gate). As mentioned, this is one of the oldest standing features of the original design and emphasizes the rich, elaborate feel of Romanesque style.

One of our regrets was not taking the guided tour of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The comprehensive tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the cathedral itself, the catacombs, north and south towers and cathedral treasure.

Are you sold yet on this tour? Don’t worry there is more! Can you imagine walking on the roof of this 13th-century cathedral? That is exactly what you can do during an evening tour between July and September on Saturday’s. I think a return trip to Vienna beckons for us in the Summer months!

Hofburg Palace

A short walk from St. Stephen’s Cathedral saw us pass what I would classify as the ‘ritzy’ part of the city, especially with the type of stores that could be found along this street.

From Tiffany & Co. to luxurious watchmakers Bucherer and Wagner, those that have an interest in participating in a little retail therapy (or perhaps increasing their credit card line!) would love this part of Vienna.

However, a stroll along Kohlmarkt was all about the gorgeous palace that awaits visitors at the end of this street. Hofburg Palace was once the focal point of all imperial power in Vienna. Until the early 20th century, it was home to the former kings and emperors of Austria. Today, it still serves as the official residence and workplace of the President of Austria.

One of the most interesting aspects of Hofburg Palace is the design, purely because construction of all the different wings took so long to complete. As you stroll around the exterior of the palace, you will notice a variety of characteristics typical of numerous periods, ranging from Gothic and Renaissance to the more modern Classic approach.

Directly in front of Hofburg Palace is the Michaelerplatz square which divides the palace from Kohlmarkt. As we approached this square, we noticed that this was used as a location for Christmas markets, with the perfect backdrop of the palace overlooking the festivities. The Michaeler wing of Hofburg Palace is the most frequently visited spot given its location.

Mozart’s House

Let’s return to the musical legacy that helps Vienna maintain the nickname of the ‘City of Music’. Mozarthaus Vienna is the residence where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lived for three years between 1784 and 1787.

This is an iconic location in Mozart’s rich history as it is here where he composed the majority of his music.

Located along the cobblestone streets of Domgasse 5 in the heart of Old Town Vienna, Mozart’s residence today is a museum, historical apartment and a presentation of a myriad of his most archetypal works.

Walking Vienna’s Historic Streets

The beauty about exploring a city like Vienna is that just strolling around the streets offers a plethora of gorgeous attractions and reasons to want to stay here for longer. Take a moment to forget about all those iconic landmarks that we have mentioned above and instead, think about allowing yourselves to get lost in Vienna’s historic districts.

This is exactly what we did as we folded our maps and let ourselves become engulfed in Vienna’s history.

Passing by gorgeous buildings such as the Peterskirche, which is a Baroque Roman Catholic parish church and experiencing the late Christmas season decorations made this a perfect city to walk around despite the cold weather.

Quaint cafes and coffee shops are waiting to entice you inside, especially when you see the sacher torte and other delicious looking desserts scattered around the shop windows. But regardless of your desire to sample Austria’s finest cuisine, the grand buildings along these back alleys will keep your attention throughout your time in the city.

Summary

A day in Vienna offered us just a brief glimpse at the rich history and culture that exists on a city sitting on the banks of the Danube River. Everywhere you look there are sounds and remnants that will remind you of Mozart’s former residence here, but perhaps the City of Music should be associated more with the gorgeous architecture that is prevalent on every street corner.

Hopefully we will have the opportunity in the near future to return to Vienna and spend some more time exploring all parts of the city. We would love to head outside the Old Town and see what other hidden gems are available here. One thing is for certain, wherever you visit in Vienna there is sacher torte waiting to be devoured…and why not!

Have you visited Vienna, and if so, what are your favorite attractions here?

Budapest in One Day – Where to Go and What to See?

Hungary

Chris Boothman

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Feb 15, 2016

14

Budapest in One Day – Where to Go and What to See?

By the time we arrived in Budapest on New Year’s Eve, we were reflecting on an amazing journey through some of Europe’s finest cities. Could it get any better? After visiting the Hungarian capital, we can well and truly attest that yes, of course it could! Budapest in one day was going to be yet another ambitious experience but exploring such a historical and culturally diverse city was going to be an exciting adventure that we were ready for.

If you plan on visiting Budapest in the near future, hopefully this guide will help point you in the right direction, especially if you only have limited time. We spent New Year’s Eve at the Hilton Budapest City which is a great location for exploring many of the city’s leading attractions.

How to Get Around Budapest?

New Year’s Day is a great time to get out and take a stroll because most people are either recovering from the night before or opt against heading out in the freezing cold Hungarian weather. For hardy folks like Heather and I, we were not going to let the frigid temperatures prevent us from experiencing Budapest.

But if you have an itinerary in mind with a myriad of attractions that you just have to see in your short time in Budapest, the best way to get around is to use the metro system. I have read a couple of articles since we returned home regarding the Budapest public transportation system and for the most part, they are not particularly positive.

However, I want to emphasize our experiences and everything about it was great. Here is a quick rundown on how it works.

PURCHASE TICKETS – Purchase a ticket at one of the ticket machines at the station. A single ticket (as of February 2016) costs 350 Hungarian Forint which is equivalent to just over $1.20. A better value is a pack of 10 tickets for 3,000 HUF or a daily 24-hour travel card for 1,650 HUF.
***IMPORTANT*** VALIDATE TICKETS – The most crucial step after purchasing your ticket(s) is to ensure they are validated prior to boarding the metro. How do you do this? Simple! Be sure to validate your ticket using the orange or red ticket-punching machines as ticket controllers may ask to see your ticket, and will fine you for having an invalid one.
METRO MAP – Check the map and ensure you know which station you are leaving at! It’s actually a pretty simple system, far easier than London’s or New York’s subway system but with the language barriers it may take a few glances to confirm where you should be leaving.

So…once you have the metro system down, you are ready to head out and explore Budapest’s finest landmarks, historical attractions and of course perhaps sampling some local goulash or typical Hungarian dish.

Let’s take a look at some of Budapest’s impressive attractions.

City Park

Our time in Budapest started with an early morning trip to City Park which is outside of the main tourist spot but offers an opportunity to explore the beautiful Vajdahunyad Castle.

Renowned as one of the ‘romantic’ castles in Hungary, this stunning piece of architecture was introduced to us a couple of years ago when one of our travel blogging friends sent us a picture of this. We just had to see this for ourselves!

The castle looks much older than it actually is. Dating back to 1908 when construction started, Vajdahunyad Castle has a real medieval and gothic feel to it. When you hear that this castle was inspired by a Transylvanian gothic castle, it’s really not surprising. This castle is actually an enclave of buildings rather than your stereotypical one standing structure.

The variety of architectural styles are what makes this castle so appealing and probably the reason why I was so excited to explore this park. As we walked around the grounds outside by the frozen boating lake and skating rink, we passed by a number of locals selling magnets (this is a great spot to purchase a souvenir as you can help out the locals and also not pay the typical prices of tourist traps!) and other mementos.

We quickly headed to the entrance and immediately noticed the gothic inspired feel. But as our journey through the iconic gate and inside the castle grounds continued, we noticed the different blends of architecture.

From Renaissance to Baroque and even a hint of Romanesque style are visible in and around the castle. This was an intentional design to represent the various eras in Hungarian history.

Outside of City Park is the gorgeous Heroes Square which is one of Budapest’s top attractions. The towering Millennium Monument is the focal point in this square but this is certainly one of the most popular spots in Budapest for special events and celebrations.

If you plan on visiting here, it’s a no-brainer to keep walking to explore City Park and Vajdahunyad Castle.

Nearest Metro Station – Hősök tere

St. Stephen’s Basilica

We hopped back on the metro and headed back to the heart of Budapest to our next stop to check out St. Stephen’s Basilica. This beautiful church is the largest in Budapest and dates back to the original construction that started in the mid-19th century. The iconic dome you see today is not the original, as in 1868 this actually collapsed causing a real delay in the completion of this basilica.

The panoramic views of Budapest from the top of the dome make this an attractive landmark to explore, but of course on New Year’s Day this was closed so we had to be content with exterior views of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

An interesting feature of the dome is that standing at 96 meters, it is the exact same height as the Hungarian Parliament building that we later discovered on our tour of the city.

Nearest Metro Station – Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út

Chain Bridge

A short walk from St. Stephen’s Basilica lead us to the banks of the Danube and the impressive sight of the historic Chain Bridge. The Chain Bridge is a suspension bridge that spans the River Danube between ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’.

The proposal to construct this bridge was made by Count István Széchenyi and dates back to 1839. Széchenyi was a leading Hungarian figure during the 18th century, and today the Chain Bridge is named after him.

Traffic moves across this bridge in two lanes but perhaps the best way to cross the Danube is to walk on the pavement across the 380 meters stretching the river.

The stunning landscapes looking back across Budapest with the Hungarian Parliament standing out is a sight to behold and certainly one you will appreciate.

Nearest Metro Station – Bajcsy-Zsilinszky út

Shoes on the Danube Bank

One of the most moving and emotional landmarks in Budapest (and possibly throughout Europe) is the iconic Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial. We took the short walk from the Chain Bridge along the banks of the Danube before arriving at the location where sixty pairs of iron shoes lay overlooking the Danube. The story behind these is what makes this such a chilling and emotional landmark.

The memorial was placed here to honor the Jews who were killed by fascist militia during the Second World War. These Jewish individuals were forced to stand on the edge of the Danube, take off their shoes and then shot before falling into the river, leaving their shoes behind on the bank.

The various sizes of shoes represent the different individuals that were killed. No one was spared their lives during this tragic event and whether you were an aspiring child, local businessman or an elderly couple…well the suffering is apparent as we stand at this memorial today and remember this awful story.

To the memory of the victims shot into the Danube by Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944–45.

Nearest Metro Station – Kossuth Lajos tér

Hungarian Parliament

One of the most spectacular buildings in Europe is the Hungarian Parliament. It is the world’s third largest parliament building and dates back over a hundred years to 1902 when construction was completed. It is a typical example of Neo-Gothic architecture and is one of the highly sought after tourist landmarks in Budapest.

We spent quite a bit of time marveling over this beautiful building and walking around the Lajos Kossuth Square.

Exploring this part of Budapest is more than just about the Hungarian Parliament as there is a lot of history and other landmarks worth experiencing. At first glance, you may think this parliament building is much older than it really is, especially with the medieval style appearance.

The statue of Lajos Kossuth stands at the north point of the square which was named after the former Hungarian leader of the War of Independence in the 19th century.

The Museum of Ethnography is across the road from Kossuth Square and is another attractive building worth exploring.

Nearest Metro Station – Kossuth Lajos tér

Fisherman’s Bastion

Our final stop saw us climb back on the metro and head to higher ground to check out the views across Budapest.

Did you know that the panoramic views across the city and Danube are actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site? The Buda Castle district is an ancient part of the city and is home to some of the most historic monuments throughout Budapest. It is about a 10-15 minute walk up a pretty steep incline from the nearest metro station which is Széll Kálmán tér.

The Castle District offers much more than just the castle that stands proudly overlooking the beautiful city. As we walked through the entrance to the ‘Old Town’, we immediately noticed how the architecture differed from everything we had seen previously across the river.

Rich, colorful and even medieval looking buildings are the norm in this part of the city, with cobblestone streets making this a quaint stroll through a quiet neighborhood.

The sound of the church bells ringing and low-key chatter among the locals either enjoying lunch at one of the quirky looking restaurants or going about their daily lives is the immediate experience we encountered.

The Gothic tower of the Mathias Church along with the Fishermen’s Bastion in the background is one of the most frequently photographed sites in Hungary.

Nearest Metro Station – Széll Kálmán tér

Summary

Hungary was the furthest Eastern European country that we visited on this trip, and the first time that we set foot in this nation. What an amazing experience we had walking around this beautiful city and learning about the Hungarian culture in and around Budapest.

Budapest in one day is ambitious but unbelievably rewarding. The iconic landmarks that we have outlined here are just a glimpse of what can be experienced in Budapest, so we strongly recommend spending some time here if you are planning a visit to Eastern Europe.

Amsterdam Walking Tour – Why It’s Epic and Controversial?

Netherlands

Chris Boothman

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Feb 11, 2016

23

Amsterdam Walking Tour – Why It’s Epic and Controversial?

It’s time to be real honest with yourselves! What is the first thing that springs to mind when you think about Amsterdam? Depending on your age, perhaps you will say Anne Frank or the stereotypical canals and bicycles that are literally everywhere in the city. But I am sure there are a few of you out there that would think about the Red Light district or the freedom of cannabis throughout the city. Regardless of your stance on any of these issues, the reality is that Amsterdam exudes freedom and we were excited to visit the Dutch capital to learn more. What better way to do this than by an Amsterdam walking tour!

Sandemans Amsterdam Walking Tour

Amsterdam is a beautiful city and it didn’t take us long to fall in love with the perfectly dubbed ‘Venice of the North’. After arriving late at night and experiencing first hand the awesome FREE ferry service that takes locals and visitors alike to various parts of the city, we headed back to the central part of Amsterdam to take another of Sandemans free walking tours.

The previous day we experienced the Brussels walking tour which was an excellent way to take in the main attractions, along with a few hidden gems that our tour guide introduced to us. We were excited and prepared to go along with the Amsterdam version as we now considered ourselves to be seasoned pros of the free walking tour.

From the wild history of prostitution and drug decriminalization, to the tragedy of Anne Frank’s story and Nazi occupation, we aim to give you a perfect introduction to Amsterdam.

Having read the above quote on Sandemans website prior to taking the tour, this was going to be…as the title of this post goes…an epic yet potentially controversial walking tour. But we all love a bit of controversy right? Arriving at the National Monument at Dam Square meeting point just before 10:00AM, we met a variety of visitors from all corners of the world.

We were introduced to our tour guide for the day, Katjalisa who immediately asked us if we were all ready to stick with her for the full 2.5 hours despite the cold weather and potential for heavy rain. A little inclement weather wasn’t going to stop any of us from experiencing the city of Amsterdam!

Red Light District

***PLEASE NOTE, PICTURES WERE NOT ALLOWED IN THIS PART OF THE CITY AS ADVISED BY OUR TOUR GUIDE***

If any members of the tour were thinking that this was going to be all about history and modern art in Amsterdam, they quickly realized this was far from the truth as we immediately headed for one of the most controversial neighborhoods of the city – the Red Light District. Visiting this part of the city during the morning is clearly a very different experience than at night, with very few people on the streets and the windows/buildings all covered up.

Walking through the district, Katjalisa began explaining that she is actually working on a research project ‘behind the scenes’ of the Red Light District. I am sure certain members of the group were a little uncomfortable as our tour guide shared more information on ‘costs’ and ‘expectations’ of individuals visiting this neighborhood, but the reality is this is what takes place here and it is an accepted industry. Katjalisa emphasized that the females participating in prostitution here are some of the most confident individuals she has met, it is a very different industry to the stereotype that most cities associate with this.

How does the government, city of Amsterdam and locals feel about this? Just like we later discovered with the topic of cannabis and ‘coffee shops’, it is a topic that is rarely discussed. However, it is clearly apparent that the type of tourists and visitors to the city are for the most part not what Amsterdam would like to attract.

Oude Kerk Square

As we stood in the Oude Kerk square listening to Katjalisa’s stories, a group of ‘typical’ juveniles strolled through the district, and she immediately frowned indicating that this is exactly the type of people that are frequently seen here and unfortunately, it has a negative reflection on the city. We also noticed a small, bronze statue of a woman representing a prostitute waiting at the door for a potential client. You can see how proud she looks and this is a perfect representation of all the prostitutes in this part of the city.

We also noticed a small, bronze statue of a woman representing a prostitute waiting at the door for a potential client. You can see how proud she looks and this is a perfect representation of all the prostitutes in this part of the city.

I mentioned the Oude Kerk square, well after listening to the controversial stories related to the Red Light district, we then switched to the historic church that towers above this district. It’s kind of ironic that this church is located here but it’s believed that throughout history, devout protestants would have enjoyed the Red Light district the previous night before crawling into the church to beg for forgiveness after their sins!

Venice of the North

The Red Light District may be the most famous neighborhood throughout Amsterdam, but for those of you less interested in hearing about that perhaps you will be more interested in what I now believe to be the best stereotype of the Dutch capital.

The canals that run through the city reinforce the similarity with a fellow European city, but it’s also intriguing to see how this city is pretty much revolved around bicycles.

The Jordaan District is a perfect example of a Dutch neighborhood in Amsterdam as it was initially created by the working class and immigrants moving into the city. Today, Amsterdam is one of the most multi-culturally diverse cities with migrants from a myriad of nations finding residence here.

An oasis of peace with a labyrinth of narrow streets and little canals

Having experienced all of the bicycles in Copenhagen, I never imagined we would visit a city with more two-wheeled forms of transportation.

But Amsterdam has a network designed for bicycles that make this by far the best way to get around. In fact, as you walk around the city it’s apparent that bicycles are the norm rather than cars!

We took a short break before continuing our tour and this gave us an opportunity to experience some of Amsterdam’s fine cuisine.

The Coffee Shops

Our tour of Amsterdam continued through courtyards, cobblestone alleys and of course by the iconic canals. Katjalisa pointed out a few of Amsterdam’s most iconic ‘coffee shops’ including Dampkring Amsterdam, most famous for being the location in the movie Ocean’s 12 with Brad Pitt and George Clooney.

Locals suggest this is not one of the better coffee shops around, so if you are interested in sampling some of Amsterdam’s finest cannabis, perhaps you need to ask a local for their recommendation!

The topic of cannabis is again another ‘controversial’ matter and one that Katjalisa was a little hesitant to discuss, primarily because this is another tour offered by Sandemans.

By the way, if you haven’t already figured it out…the term ‘coffee shop’ in Amsterdam refers to a spot where you can grab a menu with all varieties of cannabis/joints etc. available for purchase!

Where does all the cannabis come from? Well, that’s the million dollar question that in reality no one knows. Is it legal? Technically no, rather it is ‘tolerated’ by the government. Our guide indicated that if the police caught you with a beer and a joint, they would ask you to get rid of the beer but say nothing about the cannabis. An individual may carry a maximum of 5 grams of cannabis without risk of prosecution.

The Begijnhof Convent

If you are looking for a spot around Amsterdam to head away from the hustle and bustle of city life, in particular, those bicycles that are difficult to avoid unless you are a local, head over to the Begijnhof Convent which is an enclosed courtyard dating back to the 14th century.

It’s crazy to think that over the last 600 years, this location has maintained such a quiet ambiance and sanctuary feel yet everything surrounding it has developed into the modern city.

Today, people are still living inside the Begijnhof so visitors are encouraged to maintain the silence and pay respects to the gorgeous architecture that is preserved throughout this courtyard. The well-maintained garden is a central focal point alongside the English Reformed church which still maintains the original medieval tower dating back to the 15th century.

Quirky Architecture

Walking around Amsterdam, you can’t help but notice all of the quirky architecture. For example, during our tour, we noticed both the widest bridge and narrowest house.

Let me tell you, I can’t imagine moving much furniture around in the narrow house! Regardless of whether this is ‘officially’ the narrowest house in Amsterdam, it is a little over 2 meters wide proving that it’s not that much wider than the actual doorway.

The Torensluis Bridge is the widest bridge in the city and was initially constructed in the 17th century. It was originally constructed to serve as a prison and today the barred windows under the bridge serve as a reminder of the original purpose.

The iconic figure of Multatuli is also present here through a statue that depicts this author who was most famous for his satirical novel, Max Havelaar.

Anne Frank House

Our tour of Amsterdam culminated at probably the most iconic of all attractions, the Anne Frank House. Have you read the ‘Diary of Anne Frank’? I have to admit that none of the tour group members had but by all accounts it’s definitely a worthwhile read.

Although our tour didn’t actually go inside of this building, the story of our Frank and her family lived in the annex here along with her father’s business. As Anne Frank was a Jewish victim of the Holocaust, she was kept in hiding in this location for quite some time. She used the time spent here to write her diary and portray her feelings and experiences throughout these difficult times.

Her secret location unfortunately didn’t last too long, as on August 4, 1944 she was captured by the Gestapo and taken to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp. She died there just a few months later in early 1945.

Today, the popularity of this attraction makes the waiting times quite lengthy but according to Katjalisa it’s well worth the wait. Quotations and artifacts from the infamous diary can be seen in the museum, and although we didn’t have time on this trip to head inside, we look forward to a return trip in the near future. Not that we need any excuses to return to Amsterdam!

Summary

Amsterdam is clearly an ‘epic and controversial’ city, but surely that’s the reason why it attracts so many visitors from all corners of the globe every year! Our Amsterdam walking tour was a real eye-opener but thanks to Katjalisa, she not only educated us in a number of ‘touchy’ topics but she introduced us to a city that oozes real character and uniqueness.

If you plan on visiting Amsterdam, I would strongly encourage you to consider taking a guided walking tour. You will appreciate the knowledgeable guides and leave with a wealth of knowledge about the destination we can now all associate as the ‘Venice of the North’!

Free Bratislava Walking Tour – Is It Worth the Time and Effort?

Slovakia

Chris Boothman

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Feb 8, 2016

12

Free Bratislava Walking Tour – Is It Worth the Time and Effort?

If you are thinking about visiting Slovakia, or specifically Bratislava, you may have heard a lot of stories suggesting that this part of Europe is simply not worth your time and effort. Well, let’s start by encouraging you to ignore all of those stories and listen to what we have to say because after our experience in Bratislava we can 100% confirm that this is DEFINITELY worth exploring! A free Bratislava walking tour is certainly one of the best ways to visit many of the highlights and iconic landmarks in the Slovak capital.

Our trip to Bratislava started in Vienna as we boarded an early morning train heading for the Slovak capital. I will openly admit that both of us were a little skeptical about this trip but excited at the same time as this was one of those countries off the beaten path that most tourists probably don’t think about visiting.

Bratislava – Eurotrip Revisited?

Let’s take a step back and look at the stereotypes that are floating around about Bratislava. Yes, Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia which was formerly part of Czechoslovakia before both countries became independent nations in 1993.

Before going into too much detail, Bratislava and the country of Slovakia as a whole suffer from a lot of corruption which is definitely one of the main problems here, but the stereotypes that I am sure many of us have seen portrayed on movies like Eurotrip and Hostel are far from the truth!

Planning a trip to Bratislava and worried that you may be the next tourist kidnapped? Please, please don’t worry about this! The chances of winning the lottery are about as high as this happening to you.

Useful Information

Arriving at Bratislava’s train station, we were immediately greeted with a large ‘Welcome to Slovakia’ sign and given the small size of the station we were still left a little unsure as to what we could expect during our visit to the city. If you want to go to the city center, the best way is to take the X13 bus to “Namestie SNP” and from here you are one step away from the very center of Bratislava’s main square (Hlavne namestie).

After establishing our bearings in the station and using one of the luggage storage lockers inside the station, we hopped on the bus and took a short 10-minute ride to the heart of the city. Leaving the bus, we immediately felt more confident and excited about what lay in store for us during the walking tour of Bratislava.

Be Free Tours – Bratislava Walking Tour

So…spending 6 hours in Bratislava, what can you see? This is where the free Bratislava tour comes in handy because you are given a guided tour by a local Slovakian and taken to all of the hot spots in and around the city. Thanks to Be Free Tours for offering this awesome 3-hour tour and special thanks to our tour guide Andrea for an informative and well-organized walk around the city.

Tours are available in English and are offered twice daily at 11AM and 3PM. We opted for the morning edition on New Year’s Eve and despite the incredibly frigid conditions, the tour went ahead. We met at the Hviezdoslavovo namestie meeting spot, also known as the Statue of Hviezdoslav, which is essentially located in the heart of Bratislava.

Our guide gave us a quick summary of what to expect from the tour and just like other free walking tours around Europe, it works on a tip based system. The beauty of this is that each tourist is given the opportunity to pay the guide based on how informative and rewarding they think the tour is. This certainly encourages the guide to give a better tour so that at the end they receive better tips. Tips ranging from $5-$20 are standard but honestly you can give whatever you think is appropriate for a 2.5-3 hour tour of the city.

Here is a quick guide to the top attractions in Bratislava that you can expect to visit during your tour of the city.

Hviezdoslavovo Námestie

The first part of the tour started in Bratislava’s main square where we met. From the gorgeous, towering statue of Pavol Hviezdoslav to the Hotel Carlton that has housed many famous guests including Einstein, Nobel and US president George Bush. In 2005, President Bush gave a speech in Hviezdoslavovo Námestie alongside Russian President, Vladimir Putin.

The iconic statue that I mentioned of Hviezdoslav relates to the Slovak poet who is a well-renowned figure in Slovakian history, and his values certainly relate well with the Slovak people hence the reason a statue was formed in his memory.

As you peer around the main square, it is difficult to avoid seeing many other stunning buildings such as the Philarmonic Concert Hall (known locally as Reduta) and at the southern point is a statue of famous Danish author, Hans Christian Andersen following his visit to Bratislava and his claim that he loved this city (belief is that many of his stories were inspired from his visit to Bratislava).

St. Martin’s Cathedral

A short walk from Hviezdoslavovo Námestie led us to the imperious sight of St. Martin’s Cathedral. The traditional Gothic-inspired architecture is evident throughout this beautiful construction but perhaps the most impressive feature is the gold-plated replica of St. Stephen’s crown that sits on top of the tower.

Weighing in at 330 pounds, of which 18 pounds is gold, this makes St. Martin’s Cathedral one of the most sought after attractions (and perhaps this feature is a reason why security is generally a little higher here, though I would hate to imagine someone trying to clamber to the summit of this tower).

The towering spire stands proudly above Bratislava’s Old Town skyline and is in a perfect location for visitors to admire its beauty alongside the nearby Bratislava Castle which is a short walk from this point though the free walking tour does not head in that direction.

The Watcher

One of the most unique landmarks throughout Bratislava (and in fact perhaps Europe!) is Cumil “The Watcher”, who peers out from a manhole in the heart of Old Town. What exactly is he watching? Well, it’s feasible that he is representing a communist worker who simply wants to spend his time watching people pass by or maybe there is a more sinister story behind this such as the one floating around that he is using this spot as a perfect vantage point to look up females skirts (I will let you decide on this one!)

Given that “The Watcher” almost lost his head on numerous occasions due to vehicles not paying close attention, there is now a road sign perfectly named “Man at Work” that accompanies this statue. It’s strange that this has attracted so much attention but I guess when you have something as quirky as this in the middle of a historic city, it’s going to get to get tourists stopping and snapping a quick picture!

According to Andrea, legend has it that a wish will come true for you if you touch the head of the Watcher. Have you taken the time to touch this statue? Perhaps I will regret not doing so.

Streets of Old Town Bratislava

We headed into the historic, back streets of Bratislava’s Old Town and marveled at the gorgeous infrastructure and idyllic cobblestoned streets that typify an Eastern European city.

Passing by buildings such as the Old Town Hall that date back to the 14th century and the Trinitarian Church of Bratislava really emphasizes how this city has preserved much of the rich history here.

Remnants of Bratislava’s past are noticeable throughout the city yet there are signs of the city becoming a more modern city, especially when you look at architecture such as the Most SNP or more commonly known as the UFO bridge crossing the Danube River.

Walking through St. Michael’s Gate is a really cool experience because as you look back down the streets it’s a gorgeous setting with local shops and restaurants making this a perfect spot to relax among a welcoming atmosphere.

St. Michael’s Gate is the only entrance that has been preserved from the medieval fortifications and is ranked as one of the oldest buildings throughout the city, dating back to 1300.

SNP Square

After taking a stroll out of the Old Town through St. Michael’s Gate and passing by the Grassalkovich Palace, the residence of the Slovakian president, we headed to another of Bratislava’s iconic squares – SNP Square.

SNP Square is named after the Slovenske Narodne Povstanie (Slovak National Uprising of 1944) and is one of Bratislava’s largest squares, commonly used for concerts, public protests and celebrations, most notably when Slovakia became World Ice Hockey Champions in 2002.

Andrea shared stories of Bratislava’s past at this point, one in particular, relating to the protests that took place here in the late 1980s during the Velvet Revolution which led to the transition of power away from the Communist party of Czechoslovakia to a parliamentary republic.

It’s worth noting that you can find some of Bratislava’s best restaurants to sample some fine Cibulacka (onion soup) or Cesnacka (garlic soup) near SNP Square.

Blue Church

By the time we reached the Blue Church, over 2 hours into our tour of Bratislava, many of the folks in our group were clearly feeling the freezing cold temperatures. But we weren’t going to let this stop us from enjoying yet another of Bratislava’s gorgeous, yet peculiar looking attractions.

The Church of St. Elisabeth, commonly known throughout the world as the Blue Church, has a very Gaudi-esque look to it yet so it is no surprise to hear that this was designed by Ödön Lechner who was dubbed the ‘Hungarian Gaudi’.

Located in a quiet part of Bratislava’s Old Town, the Blue Church is a typical example of Art Nouveau architecture and mass is still offered here regularly for locals and visitors who wish to experience the interior of this beautiful construction.

Summary

If you are interested in learning a little more about Eastern European history and want first hand experience of a beautiful city rebuilding, be sure to add Bratislava to your itinerary. After experiencing the free Bratislava walking tour, we can attest that this is definitely the best way to see this city and if you are fortunate to have a guide as awesome as Andrea, your generous tips will certainly be justified.

Bratislava is a city that we would both love to return to and perhaps use this as an opportunity to explore more of Slovakia. Stereotypes are there to be disproven and I think we have shown here that the negativity surrounding this nation is far from the truth. Don’t let false advertising shown in movies distract you, take some time to visit cities like Bratislava and you may be pleasantly surprised at what you discover!

24 hours in Prague – Quick Guide to the Stunning Czech Capital

Czech Republic

Chris Boothman

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Feb 4, 2016

22

24 hours in Prague – Quick Guide to the Stunning Czech Capital

As we left the apparent home comforts of Germany behind and headed towards the unknown land of the Czech Republic, we were both a little anxious and excited to see what Prague had in store for us. 24 hours in Prague was all we had to explore the Czech capital and in hindsight this is nowhere near enough time, but we were able to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking history and beauty that runs throughout this city. Hopefully this short guide will inspire you to head beyond some of Europe’s main cities and discover the beautiful city of Prague.

When I referenced home comforts in Germany, I am referring to at least a basic knowledge and understanding of the German language (thanks to my high-school German classes!) along with already spending 24 hours in Berlin and Dresden. However, heading to Prague was a completely different prospect. Neither of us have any knowledge of the Czech language and I will admit that visiting here for the first time, I had no idea about the Czech Koruna (currency).

First Impressions

Pulling into Prague’s Hlavni Nadrazi Central Station, our inherent fears were soon eased as we noticed a number of recognizable brands. From the stereotypical Burger King that is in every European city’s main train station to one of the world’s leading cosmetic brands, Sephora, there were plenty of clues to suggest that Prague was nothing to worry about.

We quickly changed £30, giving us a little over 810 Czech Koruna. Did this amount to enough for 24 hours in Prague? Of course we had no idea, but we soon found out that life in the heart of Prague is not as expensive as many of the other European counterparts. The exchange rate from British Sterling, Euros and even US Dollars is pretty favorable in return for the Koruna, and you will quickly find that your money goes a lot further than other parts of the world.

A Walking City

After checking in to the Jury’s Inn Prague, located about a 15-minute walk from the main train station, we headed out armed with our city map in search of the underlying truth why Prague is such a reputed city for tourists. It didn’t take long for us to discover why Prague’s reputation is so high because the quirkiness, history and unique culture was thrown right in front of us as we walked along the side streets.

From the local street performers playing a rendition of ‘Hey Jude’, to the thriving Christmas markets serving a plethora of festive favorites such as mulled wine and local Czech delicacies (more on that later), Prague immediately captured our hearts and we wanted to explore more!

We love exploring cities on foot and Prague is certainly up there with one of the best we have experienced. Is there any better way to explore a city than by allowing yourselves to get lost amidst the cobbled streets and quirky layout typical of an historic European capital?

But of course Prague is littered with a number of iconic attractions that are a must-see and honestly after visiting them for the first time, I think these are landmarks that you would want to experience time and time again.

Charles Bridge

Let’s start with probably the most famous landmark in Prague. The historic Charles Bridge crosses the Vitava river and dates back to 1357 when the initial construction began under the watchful eye of King Charles IV. Completed in the early parts of the 15th century, “The Stone Bridge” (or The Prague Bridge) as it was initially called, only became known as the present day name in 1870.

Why is the Charles Bridge so famous? Well, apart from the historical background and the fact that it is over 600 years old, the bridge is iconically lined with 30 Baroque inspired statues representing religious figures, making this an extremely popular attraction for a variety of backgrounds.

Although these statues are replicas of the original 17th century versions, they certainly add an extra dimesion to this architectural masterpiece.

At both ends of the bridge are towers providing entry to the New and Old towns of Prague. The Old Town Bridge Tower is adorned with statues of Charles IV, while there are two smaller bridges on the opposite end. Street artists and vendors fight for space on the bridge as this is a perfect spot to capture the attention of passing tourists.

The bridge is a beautiful spectacle at any time of the day, though an early morning stroll to capture the Golden Hour sunrise, or a romantic evening stroll with the lamps glistening over the river make this a perfect spot to relax while exploring Prague.

We enjoyed taking a stroll across the bridge just before darkness but of course the difficulty here is mingling with the large crowds and tourists that are trying to catch a glimpse of the bridge.

So I’m told that Prague is known as the ‘city of hundred spires’ and understandably we were eager to find out why. The towering sight of Prague’s most iconic structure, Prague Castle, overlooks the rest of the city and though our time here didn’t allow a trip to the summit of the castle, a quick glance from many stops along our journey meant this structure was never far from our view.

The best views of Prague Castle are from the Charles Bridge and when you have two historic attractions like this, every avid traveler will be salivating at the thought of exploring such historic beauty.

Old Town Square

A short walk from the Charles Bridge will lead you through quaint cobbled streets before you embark on another of Prague’s iconic attractions – Old Town Square. This historic square is home to a number of additional landmarks including the Prague Orloj, a medieval astronomical clock and the infamous Sleeping Beauty inspired castle known locally as the Tyn Church.

Visiting this part of Prague shortly after Christmas was an amazing experience. Not only did we visit at night and were able to experience the stunning sight of the Christmas tree in the heart of the square, but we also noticed that this was a prime location for many of Prague’s finest Christmas markets.

I mentioned the medieval clock that we passed just before reaching the Old Town Square and this is actually the third oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest still in operation. The experience of watching the Prague Orloj in action was entertaining, especially when you think just how old this piece of history is and yet it is still in full working condition!

The awe-inspiring sight of Tyn Church clearly gave Walt Disney inspiration for the castles in Sleeping Beauty and perhaps even Cinderella. Whether this is true or not, the towering presence overlooking the Old Town Square makes this a real sight to behold and definitely creates a perfect photo opportunity especially with the Christmas festivities taking place directly in front.

But before you think the Old Town Square is all about these two iconic landmarks…think again! Every piece of architecture surrounding this square has something unique and beautiful about it. Dating back to the 12th century, this is undoubtedly one of the true medieval squares not only in the Czech Republic but also throughout Europe.

Wenceslas Square

Another of Prague’s must-see squares is that devoted to Wenceslas. The present day Wenceslas Square is home to many of Prague’s leading department stores, many of which you would find in most other European and global cities.

However, the impressive sight of the National Museum Building along with the statue of Wenceslas stand proudly overlooking what looks similar to a French style boulevard.

This vibrant stretch of seemingly new town architecture actually dates back to Charles’ regime in the 14th century. Though nowadays with the inclusion of so many global brands, it’s unsurprising to know that this is a popular spot for many tourists to experience a little retail therapy, sample some fine Czech cuisine and of course relax in one of the many hotels in this part of Prague.

Only a short walk from the aforementioned Charles Bridge and Old Town Square, we explored this part of Prague before heading into the real historical part of the city. We found this to be the perfect spot to begin the rest of our tour of Prague.

If you need more convincing that Wenceslas Square is a place worth exploring, be sure to check out this awesome ‘Affordable Travel Guide to Prague‘ by Just a Pack. The first two pictures in this section are credited to Michael who has been living in the Czech capital over the last few months and will certainly prove to be an excellent resource for anyone planning to spend considerable time in this beautiful city.

Czech Delicacies

Sampling new cuisine in a different country can be challenging and exciting at the same time. However, when you see some of the delicacies that Prague has to offer…I think it’s pretty obvious that there was nothing difficult at all about enjoying the appetizing foods on offer.

Even the local grocery stores have a myriad of delicious looking foods and this is definitely a great way to save some money rather than eating out all the time, especially if you are traveling on a tight budget.

Our time in Prague was limited so we were not able to fully experience the dining scene throughout this city. However, we would like to introduce you to Trdelník, which is a traditional Slovak cake but incredibly popular in Prague.

Slovakia may now be an independent country, but clearly their delicious pastries remained in the Czech capital.

Whether you like sweet or savory, there is a pastry waiting to be devoured! We opted for the sweet strawberry and cream and it was heaven.

Summary

Taking a stroll around Prague is pretty much the best advice we can give you if you are limited with time in this part of the Czech Republic. Given that we were taking an epic train journey throughout Europe and we only spent one night in the Czech capital, we are pretty happy with what we experienced in Prague.

One thing is for sure…we can’t wait to go back! Prague was one of those cities that immediately grabbed your attention and certainly is one of our favorite cities throughout Europe…even with only a short time spent there. With so much to see and of course so much amazing cuisine to try, it’s inevitable that a return trip to Prague will be on the cards for us hopefully sooner rather than later!

What are your experiences in Prague? What do you recommend as the ‘top’ attractions and things to do here?

10 Reasons You Will Love to Explore Berlin in a Day

Germany

Chris Boothman

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Feb 1, 2016

18

10 Reasons You Will Love to Explore Berlin in a Day

From the beer drinking stereotype to the rich history that surrounds this nation’s heritage, exploring any city throughout Germany will offer something uniquely beautiful and rewarding. What better place to start than the capital city itself, Berlin! Berlin in a day…how much can you see? Is it feasible? Both are valid questions and hopefully after reading this quick guide, you will have a few ideas of places you must experience if you only have a short time in this part of Germany.

By now, we have become experts (or at least we consider ourselves to be pretty good) at planning 24-hour guides of cities and destinations that we visit.

Given that much of our travels throughout Europe during this trip meant that we would only be spending a short time in each city, we had to have our itinerary fine-tuned and ready to go. Berlin was the first stop on our Eurail adventure so we were excited about getting our trip off to a great start!

Berlin in a Day

How much of Berlin can you feasibly experience in just 24 hours? Actually quite a lot, especially when you consider how good the public transportation is and also the fact that Berlin is yet another typical example of a great walking city like many of its fellow European counterparts.

Our first evening in Berlin consisted of a stroll around one of the many Christmas markets that Germany is famous for. From mulled wine to irresistible German delicacies waiting for you to indulge, visiting any German city in December or January is the ideal time to fully experience these charming markets.

Let’s take a look at ten reasons why you have to visit Berlin and why you may just fall in love with this German capital!

1. Modern vs Historic Germany

Arriving in Berlin at the Hauptbahnhof, we hopped on the S-Bahn and headed for our hotel in the Alexanderplatz district of the city. The first thing we noticed about Berlin echoed our feelings about Frankfurt, which was the only other German city we had spent time exploring.

The modern vs historic blend is definitely apparent as you pass through the various neighborhoods, but rather than having a disjointed look this actually makes Berlin a more attractive destination for visitors.

Our focus while exploring Berlin in a day was predominantly on the mainstream attractions that most have heard of but perhaps haven’t yet had the opportunity to explore. Learning about historical Berlin is undoubtedly an experience worth exploring but of course, you will need more than 24 hours to fully encapsulate everything this city has to offer.

In terms of modern Germany, well simply take a look at the some of the modern-day architecture here with the Berlin TV Tower and globally recognized universities and sports stadia. Mark Twain eloquently named Berlin as the “Chicago of Europe” due to its modernism and in many ways, Berlin is the most Americanized city in Europe.

2. German Beer Houses

Only a short walk from our hotel in the Alexanderplatz was the Hofbräu restaurant which immediately caught our attention. If you have ever seen the movie Beerfest or imagine stereotypical German restaurants during Oktoberfest, Hofbräu would certainly fit this image!

Full of wooden benches seating hundreds of dining and of course, drinking guests, along with live German performers singing traditional music makes this a perfect introduction to German nightlife.

A visit to Berlin wouldn’t be the same without sampling one of the local brews and when you see the size of the glasses, you know these local Germans are hardy folks when it comes to beer drinking.

I ordered the Curry Wurst and Heather opted for a traditional platter with sausage, potato salad and mustard. We also ordered a pretzel which was a nice addition to our typical German food.

If Hofbräu doesn’t particularly perk your interest, don’t worry there are plenty more similar local beer houses waiting to entice you through their doors. Our only recommendation is to try one and definitely have a beer to celebrate your time in Berlin.

3. Berlin Wall

When you think about the most iconic attractions throughout not only Berlin but Germany as a whole, the Berlin Wall is probably one of the top three landmarks in your mind. Of course, this is for good reason and with such a rich history and tragic stories surrounding this location, it goes without saying that any first-time trip to Berlin means paying a visit to the Berlin Wall is one of the first things to do.

Our hectic itinerary started early in the morning by leaving our hotel in Alexanderplatz and heading back on the S-Bahn to the Berlin Wall location. As we left the metro at the Nordbahnhof station, just a short walk from the Berlin Wall, we were a little unsure as to exactly where to go.

Expecting to see lots of visitors even at 8:30AM in the morning, we were surprised to see very few people and in fact, this had a more desolate feel to it. But perhaps this somber feeling surrounding the area and the lack of visitors was a perfect reflection on all the stories and history you can learn about here.

As we walked around the memorial site, we soon realized just how iconic this was in the battle between East and West Berlin.

You could literally spend hours here exploring all of the different artifacts in addition to the remains of the wall itself, but perhaps the most rewarding experience is listening to the stories from those that lived in the houses directly across from the ‘Berliner Mauer’.

It’s difficult to imagine trying to live a normal life only for local enforcements to frequently knock on your door telling you to pack your possessions and leave.

Visiting the Berlin Wall was the perfect way to start our visit to the German capital. Not only did it provide an in-depth history of the Berlin Wall, it also provided material that would be beneficial while exploring the rest of Berlin’s iconic landmarks, many of which are linked through the East vs West divide.

4. Brandenburg Gate

After an impressive start to our tour of Berlin, we headed to yet another of the city’s most famous landmarks. Hopping on the S-Bahn makes getting around Berlin quick and easy and if you are interested in seeing the towering sight of the neoclassical triumphal arch, known as the Brandenburg Gate, this is certainly one of the easiest attractions to access.

Dating back to its initial construction in the 18th century, it stands one block to the south of the German parliament – the Reichstag. The Brandenburg Gate is most famous for symbolizing freedom and unifying the city of Berlin between the former East and West divide.

Originally next to the Berlin Wall, in 1989 the West German Chancellor, Helmut Kohl walked through the archway and was greeted by the East German Prime Minister, Hans Modrow. This signified the start of reunification of Germany.

Understandably this is one of the most popular attractions and unlike our experience at the Berlin Wall, it was incredibly busy here especially with preparations for New Year’s Eve taking place here. But it’s not a landmark you will want to miss and on a gorgeous winter’s day, it is definitely one of my favorite ‘photogenic’ landmarks!

5. The Reichstag

The Reichstag is home to the German parliament and given its close proximity to the Brandenburg Gate, it makes sense to take a quick stroll over and take a look at this gorgeous building.

If you would like to take the free tour of the Reichstag and climb to the summit of the imperious dome that stands proudly atop this building, you are strongly encouraged to book in advance otherwise you will either be left disappointed or you may have to queue for quite some time to get a reservation later in the day or possibly the next day.

Regardless of your intentions, just taking a walk around the grounds of the Reichstag provide gorgeous views of this iconic piece of architecture. One of the most interesting designs of the Reichstag is the inscription of ‘Dem Deutschen Volke’ which literally means ‘To The German People’. The bronze letters used to design this date back to the early 20th century when Emperor William II requested that this was added.

6. Checkpoint Charlie

Although the Berlin Wall may be a clear dividing line between the former East and West Berlin, the one location that epitomizes the separation between the two is Checkpoint Charlie.

Soon after the Berlin Wall was completed, President John F. Kennedy ordered US forces to construct three different checkpoints for diplomats and allied forces to get through – Checkpoint Charlie was undoubtedly the most famous By 1962, this checkpoint was the only place where visitors could cross between the East and West.

This checkpoint, much like the rest of the Berlin Wall was far from secure, and as we explored this today we read stories of the successful escape attempts from the East to the West.

Of course, there were many more unsuccessful attempts but there are always one or two that escape the watchful eye of troops either side of the divide.

7. French Cathedral

Located in the Gendarmenmarkt square in the heart of Berlin, the French Cathedral was constructed in the first part of the 18th century. Known as the Französischer Dom, this is a beautiful building that fits perfectly with the rest of Berlin’s historical architecture.

As we walked around the Gendarmenmarkt district, we noticed this cathedral was the counterpart to the German Cathedral.

The most impressive feature of this cathedral is the towering dome that stands 70 meters tall and offers visitors the opportunity to climb a spiral staircase and enjoy panoramic views across the city.

If you want the ultimate experience, wait until the hour to climb the tower and enjoy the beautiful sounds of the bronze bells.

8. Neue Kirche

A short walk from the French Cathedral is the German Cathedral. The impressive architecture is unquestionable but this church is best known for being part of the spectacular ‘trinity ensemble’ alongside the French counterpart and Concert Hall.

This cathedral was seriously damaged during the war and it took several decades before this was restored to full working order. It’s interesting to note that no religious services take place, rather it is now used as a museum since 1992 with a German Parliament exhibition on display.

9. Berlin Cathedral

Having visited two gorgeous cathedrals, you may be forgiven for thinking that Berlin can’t have anything else that surpasses either of the aforementioned churches. If you did think this, you would be wrong because as you continue walking around Berlin, you would be hard pressed not to stumble across the majestic sight of the Berlin Cathedral.

Located on Museum Island in the Mitte district of the city, Berlin Cathedral is an incredible building that you won’t want to miss (by now you should have realized that trying to explore Berlin in a day is pretty optimistic).

Surprisingly, the history of this church only dates back to the late 19th century when construction was initially started before the inauguration ceremony took place in 1905.

Even though this is a relatively new build in comparison to the many 15th century buildings in the surrounding neighborhood, it is the Berlin Cathedral that attracts tourists from all corners of the globe. The nearby Altes Museum is equally as impressive and provides a perfect accompaniment for the Cathedral.

The views are breathtaking from all angles, whether you are looking across the river or perhaps you head inside and climb to the top of the dome to take in the views across the city.

10. Fassbender & Rausch Chocolate

What better way to end your day exploring Berlin than paying a visit to one of the best chocolate shops in the city.

Fassbender and Rausch is more than just a chocolate shop, it is an experience that all the family will love.

As we walked around this store without unbelievable amounts of chocolate available for purchase, we noticed a number of iconic Berlin attractions (many of which described above) on display, all of which were made out of chocolate!

The hardest part about visiting a shop like this is figuring out what to buy. With so much to choose from you have no idea where to begin. We finally agreed on a selection of truffles that offered a nice variation, though with so many flavors to select from, it was difficult to know where to stop!

We will let you figure out which German chocolates you want to sample, but we definitely encourage you to visit this shop which is located directly across from the German and French Cathedrals in the Gendarmenmarkt square.

Summary

Berlin is a vibrant yet historic city with so much culture to be discovered as you explore the German capital. If you are limited to only 24 hours in Berlin, perhaps you will follow our lead and check out some of the city’s most rewarding landmarks, plus of course, taking some time to sample the fine cuisine and delicacies on offer here.

Hopefully, our guide to discovering Berlin in a day will be beneficial but we are always intrigued to hear what experiences you have had while spending time in this beautiful part of Germany.

Why Should You See the Amazing Scenery on Ilkley Moor?

England

Chris Boothman

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Jan 28, 2016

23

Why Should You See the Amazing Scenery on Ilkley Moor?

If you are looking for places around the world that offer natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, perhaps you can be forgiven if Ilkley Moor in the heart of Yorkshire, England is not at the top of your bucket list. Don’t worry, before we visited Ilkley Moor for the first time in 2010, we had no idea just how gorgeous this location was so you won’t be the first person wondering where on earth we are talking about here!

When you think about attractions around the world that offer stunning landscapes, I am sure many of you may consider places like the Grand Canyon, Great Barrier Reef or even urban landscapes like the New York City skyline.

But when you stumble across a location like Ilkley Moor, it offers something just a little bit different and makes you realize that you don’t have to seek out these top locations in the distant corners of the world. Why not? Because sometimes the most beautiful places are right on your doorstep!

The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.

When artist Paul Strand spoke these words about an artist finding beauty anywhere in the world, he reiterated the importance of looking on your doorstep.

“On Ilkla Moor Baht ‘at” is an old Yorkshire folk song that is frequently considered to be the anthem of the county. It’s interesting to note that out of the all the stunning countryside throughout Yorkshire, Ilkley Moor was the chosen destination in this anthem. Dating back to the late 19th century, this song pays tribute to what is such a beautiful part of the White Rose county.

Where is Ilkley Moor?

Let’s start by answering the question that most of you are probably asking yourselves…where is Ilkley Moor? So we have established already that it is in Yorkshire, England, but more specifically it is the area of moorland in West Yorkshire along A65 between Ilkley and Keighley. Ilkley Moor is actually part of the ‘larger’ Rombalds Moor which is what you will find if you search for this on Google Maps.

Depending on how you are traveling around England, I would highly recommend renting a car and taking a road trip through the Yorkshire Dales. Along with the Ilkley Moor you will pass through a myriad of idyllic villages and gorgeous countryside, in addition to experiencing some of the finest country roads in the nation.

For those that have never driven in the UK, this part of the country is a real test but undoubtedly rewards the brave because I cannot emphasize enough just how beautiful it is.

Distance From Manchester – 50 Miles

Distance From London – 213 Miles

The above map shows an overview of Northern England and you can see that Ilkley Moor (or Rombald’s Moor) is located north of both Leeds and Manchester, but easily accessible from both.

If driving does not sound particularly appealing, you can always take the train from Manchester Piccadilly or Leeds to Ilkley and then a local bus. Maybe this adventurous option will be for the backpackers out there but regardless of what transportation you take, the end result is a plethora of beautiful panoramic landscapes.

Miles of Gorgeous Natural Beauty

Discovering the ‘real’ Ilkley Moor is all about parking your vehicle and heading out into the vast countryside to experience everything associated with the Yorkshire Dales. History, natural beauty, and iconic landmarks are all waiting to be uncovered on Ilkley Moor.

With a wide variety of flora and fauna on display, the best way to explore this part of Yorkshire is to take one of the various heritage walks. Easily accessible routes are available and thanks to the Friends of Ilkley Moor website, there are self-guided tours and downloadable maps ready to guide you on your way.

The Cow and Calf Rocks is one of the most popular walks as it leads hikers to a large rock formation consisting of sandstone and millstone grit. If this geological phenomenon is not exciting enough for you, perhaps the iconic Twelve Apostles Stone Circle constructed over 2000 years ago would be a little more intriguing.

There are a number of prehistoric landmarks scattered throughout the moorland, so it’s a case of getting out there and hiking around to see what you can stumble across. Sheep are grazing everywhere so be prepared to find a stray sheep while hiking through the moors.

Take a stroll by one of the creeks that meander through the countryside and take a peek at some of the gorgeous wildflowers that grow in this part of the country.

This really is a rugged, untouched landscape that continues to evolve and really emphasizes the beauty that nature provides us.

However, the best part about Ilkley Moor has to be the spectacular panoramic views across Yorkshire. On a clear day, you can see miles and miles of breathtaking beauty. Take a moment to sit down and peer across the scenery…trust me not only will you quickly lose the sense of time, but you will gain a much greater appreciation of everything around you.

What better way to end your day exploring Ilkley Moor than by heading into one of the local pubs in the town of Ilkley and sampling one of the local Yorkshire brews. There is nothing quite like enjoying a fresh ale in an idyllic English pub setting.

Summary

England is so much more than Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. In fact, the best of England can be displayed when you head outside of the major cities and start exploring the natural beauty in the ruralities of English finest countryside settings. Yorkshire is the perfect county to represent this stereotype, and Ilkley Moor in particular, is a gorgeous reflection on stunning natural landscapes that are available throughout the country.

Given that this is only a short drive from a myriad of other Yorkshire attractions, I strongly encourage you to spend at least a couple of days in this part of the country and experience a unique beauty. Ilkley Moor is one of the most iconic areas in the Yorkshire Dales so be sure to add this to your itinerary…you won’t be left disappointed!

Have you visited Yorkshire or specifically Ilkley Moor? What is your idea of ‘stereotypical English countryside’?

What the Historic Streets of Rome Really Look Like

Italy

Chris Boothman

-

Jan 25, 2016

5

What the Historic Streets of Rome Really Look Like

When Romulus and Remus wandered around the streets of ancient Rome, it’s likely that they would have captured a glimpse of what we should all be appreciating today. The legendary founders of Rome clearly saw something spectacular about this city and of course, visitors to Italy’s capital reap the benefits of the rich iconography and ancient history that oozes throughout the streets of Rome.

But before you start thinking this post is going to be another typical reflection on why you should visit the Colosseum or Palatine Hill by taking a typical walk around ancient Rome, this is anything but that type of story. Instead, we want to share some of the experiences we encountered while taking a leisurely stroll around the back streets of Rome. This is when you see the ‘real’ city away from the hustle and bustle of tourist hot-spots.

Our First Impression

Arriving at the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport following our short flight from Birmingham, we headed to downtown Rome aboard the local train. After alighting from the train at the Termini station and heading outside the impressive building (it certainly gives Grand Central Station in New York City a run for its money in terms of architectural brilliance), we followed our GPS towards our humble abode for the next three nights.

We were both immediately blown away by the beauty of Rome and this was just an impression at night with limited visibility. Even though we couldn’t identify the intricate details that typify Rome’s gorgeous grandeur, we did capture enough of an impression that excited us about the next few days exploring this city.

It’s worth noting that the walk from the train station to our hotel was about 20 minutes, and at no point did we feel unsafe despite our unfamiliar surroundings. A quick bite to eat in a delicious local pizzeria was certainly a welcoming to Rome that we had hoped for.

After hearing all of the hype about Italian cuisine, we were ready for an authentic experience and we didn’t leave disappointed. A local food tour in Venice or a cooking class in Florence may be appealing to other visitors to Italy but for us, it was all about hitting some of the best local establishments in the Italian capital.

After relaxing in our quaint hotel in the heart of downtown Rome, we planned our self-guided walking tour for the next day and drifted off to sleep excited about what lie ahead of us.

Architecture on the Streets of Rome

“When in Rome, do as the Romans do”…that saying is so true especially when you look at the impressive architecture lining the streets of this ancient city. The Romans were the true masters of creating iconic architecture, just look at all those Roman ruins around the Colosseum and you will understand what I am talking about.

Walking along the streets of Rome we were able to appreciate the modern day version of Roman architecture, yet still maintaining a distinctive reflection on Italian Renaissance style.

As we strolled around the idyllic and picturesque ‘vicoli’ (alleys), we noticed the urban architecture that typifies this part of the world. Colorful and vibrant facades combined with the aforementioned intricate details ensures that these back streets maintain their timeless charm. How could you ever get bored of exploring these narrow, cobblestone streets? The simple answer…NEVER!

Much of Rome is preserved through the history and deep roots of the Romans that are reflected inside these buildings. However, we also capture a sense of Italian splendor through the variety of iconic fountains, memorials and minor details that Italy seems to do better than any other nation that we have visited.

All too often you hear people say that “it’s the little things that matter”, well Rome certainly followed this philosophy to the smallest detail when designing all of the architecture throughout the city. Even a water fountain close to the Vatican City is far superior to anything I have ever seen before!

Delicious Cuisine

Any aspirations you have when visiting Rome that you will be rewarded with appetizing cuisine options will always come true if you are prepared to go out of your comfort zone and sample those local, back street restaurants.

From local bistros serving cappuccino and other stereotypical Italian espressos to delectable pasta cafes serving the finest spaghetti bolognese, you will find the best of the best in Rome.

After sampling this fine Italian cuisine, we were ready to experience local ‘gelati’ which for anyone with a sweet tooth will simply take your breath away. This is the finest ice cream around and after sampling gelato in the States and falling in love with this, we were ready to experience the ‘real deal’.

From Local Italian Markets to Historic Castles

The beauty of walking around Rome and simply allowing yourselves to get lost in the city is that you never quite know what you may stumble across next. Of course, Rome is a pretty large city to cover, but it’s a great ‘walking city’. As we walked past the Mausoleum of Hadrian, locally known as Castel Sant’Angelo, we stumbled across our first Italian open-air market on the banks of the Tiber.

Local, homemade souvenirs and Italian delicacies are items worth purchasing, but it’s the overall atmosphere of walking through these markets that is the most rewarding experience.

The views across the River Tiber are stunning, especially with the backdrop of St. Peter’s Basilica inside the Vatican City surely inspiring you to set aside some time to make a return trip to explore the world’s smallest country.

Summary

Rome is a city that you can’t help but love! The moment you step off the plane or train, you are embraced in a city full of history and it’s apparent everywhere you look. Cities like Rome are proud to preserve the ancient history that is stereotypical of the Roman era.

I really do believe that you have to go off the beaten path and explore those hidden back alleys and streets of Rome to fully appreciate the beauty here. We barely touched the surface given that we only spent a couple of days in Rome, and I have to admit that even though we loved our time exploring those ‘hot’ tourist attractions, the best experiences were during the time we spent wandering around the back streets of Rome without really having any clue where we were heading.

What are your experiences of Rome? Did you fall in love with this city or did you leave just a little underwhelmed? We realize that everyone has a different perspective on cities around the world, so please feel free to share your experiences on Rome!

How to Enjoy the Drive from Miami to Naples

Florida

Chris Boothman

-

Jan 21, 2016

25

How to Enjoy the Drive from Miami to Naples

Live, up close and personal encounters with alligators…now that’s what I am talking about. This is exactly the sort of experience we look for when considering alternative routes though of course it’s not every day that you have the opportunity to drive somewhere that has alligators roaming around in the wild. The drive from Miami to Naples or vice-versa essentially offers two different routes, and after our amazing experience at TBEX we opted for the ‘gator route’.

If you are driving from or to Fort Lauderdale, the optimal route is to hop on I-75 and zoom across the interstate though this is undoubtedly the more boring of the two routes. We actually took this route during our drive from Tampa earlier in the week, and I have to admit that my research was correct because there was very little to see. But that’s where you have to consider the pros and cons of speed vs natural beauty.

The Tamiami Trail

We had plenty of time to waste on our return trip to Tampa so opted for US-41 across the Tamiami Trail that takes you from West Miami to Naples. We want to share just a couple of experiences we had along the way and why you should consider this rather than opting for the interstate.

The stretch of highway from West Miami to Naples is part of the Tamiami Trail which is the southernmost portion of US highway that runs across the state of Florida. The full road is 275 miles in length but from Miami to Naples it is a little over 100 miles.

From alligator sightings which are pretty much guaranteed to a myriad of other wildlife encounters, this is a scenic drive like nothing else we have seen before.

Much of the drive from Miami to Naples is through the Everglades but when you throw in a couple of other intriguing encounters, such as passing through the Miccosukee Indian Village and stumbling across the smallest post office in the United States, you may already be convinced that taking US-41 is a no-brainer.

The gorgeous Everglades landscapes with the lush, sturdy sawgrass prairies are evident throughout your experience driving along the Tamiami Trail. But it is those impromptu sightings of the alligators that make this journey incredibly worthwhile.

Alligator Sightings

Much of the Tamiami Trail provides visitors with great opportunities to see alligators in their natural environment. Here are a couple of our favorite spots that you should consider taking time to explore along this route.

Shark Valley

Shark Valley is one of the entrances to the Everglades National Park and is one of the must-see stops along the Tamiami Trail. If you are looking for an obvious starting point soon after leaving Miami, this is definitely worth experiencing.

However, we decided to keep driving and find a few lesser-known spots along this drive rather than trying to deal with hoards of tourists looking for the perfect gator selfie!

Miccosukee Indian Village

The Miccosukee Indian Village offers an opportunity to grab a bite to eat (gator nuggets are popular along this stretch of road) but you may also be fortunate to catch a glimpse of an alligator gliding downstream or you can always take one of the airboat tours that are available here.

Even if you don’t manage to see alligators here, some of the scenery is pretty spectacular with the wildlife and local vegetation flourishing along this stretch of the Tamiami Trail.

Big Cypress National Preserve

The Big Cypress National Preserve is a region just to the north of the Everglades National Park and proved to be our best spot at seeing alligators.

The visitor center which is located about midway along the Tamiami Trail from Miami to Naples provides a boardwalk that allows you to walk parallel to the stream and capture a number of gators snoozing or relaxing with the sun beaming down on them.

Many of the alligators were floating along, ominously appearing to be ready to catch their next prey, while others were content to prop themselves on the bank and take in the late summer sunshine.

Meanwhile, if you prefer to go a little off the beaten path there are a number of spots where you can head along a trailhead and explore the mysteries of the Big Cypress National Preserve.

Whether you have the nerve to go wandering among the undergrowth, knowing that an active alligator could be one step ahead of you…I will leave that decision up to you.

Watching the alligators mingling with the rest of the wildlife here is also a pretty cool experience.

Ochopee Post Office

Blink…and you may miss it! That’s pretty much what it feels like as we drove right past the Ochopee Post Office which is dubbed as the smallest post office in USA. After making a quick u-turn further up the road, we pulled into the gravel parking lot beside what I can best describe as a shed rather than a post office.

Ready for a little history? The Ochopee Post Office used to be an old irrigation shed used for a tomato farm but was called into service by the locals when the Ochopee general store was destroyed in 1953.

If you love quirky pieces of architecture, then Ochopee is the place for you. Immediately I saw this it reminded me of “The Smallest Shop” in Haworth, England which is one of the most iconic attractions along the cobbled streets of this famous Yorkshire town.

Summary

If you don’t mind taking a little more time to explore the heart of Florida’s landscape, I would strongly urge you to consider taking US Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail) if you are driving from Miami to Naples or vice-versa.

Alligator sightings are almost guaranteed, even if you are not intending on making several pit-stops along this route to ensure a sighting. The volume of gators is such that a quick glance to your right (if you are driving from Miami to Naples) and you will likely be rewarded with a sighting.

An InLinkz Link-up

Why Explore Luxembourg?

Casemates du Bock

Adolphe Bridge and La Passerelle Viaduct

Grand Ducal Palace

Monument of National Solidarity

Monument of Remembrance

Summary

24 Hours in Vienna – The City of Music

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Hofburg Palace

Mozart’s House

Walking Vienna’s Historic Streets

Summary

How to Get Around Budapest?

City Park

St. Stephen’s Basilica

Chain Bridge

Shoes on the Danube Bank

Hungarian Parliament

Fisherman’s Bastion

Summary

Sandemans Amsterdam Walking Tour

Red Light District

Oude Kerk Square

Venice of the North

The Coffee Shops

The Begijnhof Convent

Quirky Architecture

Anne Frank House

Summary

Bratislava – Eurotrip Revisited?

Useful Information

Be Free Tours – Bratislava Walking Tour

Hviezdoslavovo Námestie

St. Martin’s Cathedral

The Watcher

Streets of Old Town Bratislava

SNP Square

Blue Church

Summary

First Impressions

A Walking City

Charles Bridge

Old Town Square

Wenceslas Square

Czech Delicacies

Summary

Berlin in a Day

1. Modern vs Historic Germany

2. German Beer Houses

3. Berlin Wall

4. Brandenburg Gate

5. The Reichstag

6. Checkpoint Charlie

7. French Cathedral

8. Neue Kirche

9. Berlin Cathedral

10. Fassbender & Rausch Chocolate

Summary

Where is Ilkley Moor?

Miles of Gorgeous Natural Beauty

Summary

Our First Impression

Architecture on the Streets of Rome

Delicious Cuisine

From Local Italian Markets to Historic Castles

Summary

The Tamiami Trail

Alligator Sightings

Shark Valley

Miccosukee Indian Village

Big Cypress National Preserve

Ochopee Post Office

Summary

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