September 2021 – Gripped by Travel

Venice or Italy for that matter can be visited any time, not just the summertime. In fact you could say that the Spring or Autumn were preferable for city tourists as the day time temperatures are better suited for wandering around.

If you are looking for a single city destination then why not head for Venice. With tourist numbers down this year, a trip to Venice at this time just makes so much sense. Imagine not having to queue for restaurants, museums and other attractions, taking leisurely walks around the main thoroughfares, plenty of space on the water taxis and being able to book a hotel at a reasonable price right in the middle of hundreds of years of history.

For those of you who have been to Venice before, you will not need convincing to return. For first timers then this is what you have missed so far. Venice comprises of over 100 islands, separated by canals but connected by over 400 bridges. As capital of the Republic of Venice from 697 until 1797 Venice became the financial centre of the world and was at the cross roads of international trade between east and west. This gave the city to wealth to build a city that rises out of the lagoon, with its domes and spires.

Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy — Piazza San Marco – Venice, Italy

Try to get to the Piazza San Marco at least once during your visit. It is the most famous square of Venice and probably the most photographer destination within the city. It is here that you will find the Basilica San Marco. Entrance is free to this stunningly beautiful church. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to make the most or your time in Venice.

And whilst you are in the Piazza San Marco make sure you visit the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace). The palace is worth a visit in its own right because of the architecture, but today it also houses many important art works. It’s a good idea to book your museum tickets in advance, thereby making the most of your time in the fantastic city.

One to save for the evening is a walk across the Ponte Rialto where you experience a stunning view of the bridge and the city lit up at night. Remember that gondola rides have fixed prices. Standard gondola rides in Venice have cost 80 euros for a private 25-30 minutes tour in the day and 120 euros at night. Gondolas normally take up to 6 passengers.

Slovakia is sometimes forgotten as a tourist destination. For nearly 1000 years it did not have much control over its own destiny. Even during the period of the First Slovak Republic 1939 – 1945 it was a client state of Nazi Germany. Around the year 1000 it became part of the Kingdom of Hungary and today over 9% of the population state their mother tongue is Hungarian.

Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, stands on the banks of the Danube and as such borders both Hungary and Vienna. Bratislava markets itself as a 72 hour city as that’s the average length of time tourists spend in the city. In those 72 hours there are plenty to keep you occupied.

Bratislava Castle, Slovakia - Peter Tóth — Bratislava Castle, Slovakia

Due to its geographical position and history a good starting point is Bratislava castle. Not only does it house the Museum of History but affords tremendous views across the city. Down in the town, the Michael’s Gate which is the only preserved gate of the city fortification system dates back to the 14^th century gives you a great view back across the Old Town and the castle. The tower at the gate houses the Museum of Arms.

Bratislava houses the largest war memorial in Central Europe. It rises over 50 metres and dominates the city skyline. It is the burial ground of 6845 soldiers of the Soviet army who died during the liberation of Bratislava in World War II.

St Elizabeth’s Church (The Blue Church) - Hans Hansen — St Elizabeth’s Church (The Blue Church)

On a religious note, don’t miss out on a visit the 15^th Century St Marin’s Cathedral, the Art Nouveau style St Elizabeth’s Church, also known as the blue church and cubist style synagogue built between 1923 and 1926.

You will be spoilt for choice with a wide range of restaurants, cafes and bars and for those of you with a sweet tooth, patisseries something they do so well in Central Europe. Whilst in the city look out for the amazing sculptures.