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Activity Bucharest City Europe Heritage Romania

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is home to the world’s biggest parliamentary building.  Originally at The Palace of Parliament but more commonly known today as the People’s Palace construction started in 1984 and took thirteen years to build. An area of s (2.7 sq mi) of the old city centre was flattened to allow the construction including monasteries, factories and a hospital. One engineer set out to save as much as he could.

Moving Churches to Safety – Bucharest.

Today the People’s Palace, both houses of the Romanian Parliament., along with the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Communist Totalitarianism and the Museum of the Palace.

The People’s Palace – Bucharest, Romania.

Prior to the Second World War Bucharest was known as the “Paris of the East”.  The war, the Communist era and an earthquake in 1977 robbed the city of many or the art nouveau buildings. Here and there are places where that former sophistication. The Cantacuzino Palace which now houses the George Enescu museum is one such example which was built between 1901 and 1903 by architect Ion D. Berindey. 

Paris of the East, Bucharest, Romania

Berindey was responsible for a number of famous landmarks during this time including the Bucharest observatory that was built between 1908 and 1910. George Enescu incidently is regarded as one of the greatest musicians in Romanian history. You might even choose to stay in the elegant Athenee Palace Hilton hotel designed by the French Theophile Bradeau. Around and about you will find more examples that listed here.  Remember to look out for Bucharest’s copy of the Arc de Triomphe.

Arcul de Triumf, Bucharest, Romania.

Personally, I would recommend seeking out the beautiful churches and chapels that fuse Byzantine, Greek, Ottoman and Renaissance styles.  On your list head for The Stavropoleous Church in the old city, St Apostle’s and the Doamnei Church.

Orthodox Church, Bucharest, Romania

If you are interested in looking back in time, you might be interested in watching the TV series “Comrade Detective” on Amazon Prime. Set in 1980s Bucharest it tells the story of two police detectives investigating the murder of a colleague. There is more to this story than meets the eye!

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Activity City Fly Drive Road Sioux Falls South Dakota USA

Road Trip, South Dakota

A good starting point for any trip to South Dakota is a road trip based on I-90.  I-90 is the longest interstate highway in the USA and the longest east-west road across South Dakota.  Although it doesn’t pass through the South Dakotan capital of Pierre it does provide the focus on a great holiday in this part of the world.

The route will take in a number of impressive geographical features starting off with the Sioux Falls after which the state’s largest city is named.  Over 7000 gallons of water cascade down every second.  That’s a lot of water by anyone’s standards.

Sioux Falls - South Dakota USA
Sioux Falls – South Dakota USA

The striking landscape of Badlands National Parks features a maze of buttes, canyons, pinnacles and spires. The native Lakota people gave this land its name, “mako sica,” meaning “land bad.” Erosion of the Badlands reveals sedimentary layers of different colors: purple and yellow, tan and grey, red and orange and white. Bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mule and whitetail deer, prairie dogs, coyotes, eagles and hawks are amongst the wildlife you are likely to see.

Badlands - South Dakota USA
Badlands – South Dakota USA

If Native American history and culture is your cup of tea then at Mitchell you will find a  Prehistoric Indian Village that is more than 1,000 years old. On-going excavations and laboratory analyses are discovering more about how these people lived.  A trip to the  Akta Lakota Museum on the campus of the St Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain provides history and learning about Native American life in a unique way. Check out the mini-theater, interactive displays, English-Lakota descriptions, and its beautiful gift shop.

Finally there are a few attractions that you will want to check out that you might not have expected. Whilst visiting the Akta Lakota museum take in the Dignity Monument.

Dignity Monument - South Dakota USA
Dignity Monument – South Dakota USA

The sculpture was erected in 2016 near I-90 in honour of the 125th anniversary of South Dakota statehood.  It depicts an indigenous woman in plains style attire.  If you enjoy sculptures, then head to the Porter Sculpture Park at Exit 374 and spend time viewing the sculptures made by Wayne Porter who makes his sculptures mainly from junk metal.

If you are visiting South Dakota as a road trip that a trip to the Pioneer Auto Show at Murdo is a must. There are more than 30 buildings displaying it’s unrivaled collection of cars, motorcycles, tractors, scooters and bicycles.  Plus other automobilia including gas pumps and antique toys.  In case you are in the mood, they also have classic American cars for sale.

Rapid City is South Dakota’s second-largest city and this is the place to head for to see the Mount Rushmore Memorial, the Custer State Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial.  Which is where we started.  We have run out of space to do justice to everything South Dakota has to offer, we will be back again.

Mount Rushmore - South Dakota USA
Mount Rushmore – South Dakota USA
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Activity Battlefield Europe Italy Monte Cassino Uncategorized

Monte Cassino, Italy

Over 1000 Poles lost their lives in the taking of the Monte Cassino Monastery during May 1944. The Polish words of a song that recount the events have translated into English below:

“The red poppies on Monte Cassino Drank Polish blood instead of dew… O’er the poppies the soldiers did go ‘Mid death, and to their anger stayed true! Years will come and ages will go, Enshrining their strivings and their toil!… And the poppies on Monte Cassino Will be redder for Poles’ blood in their soil.”

Monte Cassino, Italy
Monte Cassino, Italy

We visit Monte Cassino this time, as an increasing number of tourists each year will travel not just to Italy, but throughout Europe, the USA and South East Asia to walk in the footsteps of those servicemen and woman who bravely fought in years gone past.  Each has their own reason for doing this, some want to see where their relatives were posted, others out of historical interest or to give their visit to a country a purpose.

This story of the taking of Monte Cassino by the Allies is actually a very sad one.  The Germans said that Monastery was to be a neutral zone, but the allies didn’t believe them and thought it was a ruse.  It wasn’t and so it was bombed by the Allies killing innocent civilians and religious staff sheltering inside.  Once attacked by the Allies the Germans then decided make the most of the strategic position on the Monastery and the hill to fortify the ruins and they proved to be a worthy foe.

War Cemetary
War Memorial

There were over 55,0000 Allied casualties in the effort to take Monte Cassino, but its taking was part of the long and bitter struggle led to the taking of Rome, the first Axis capital to fall to the Allies and the turned the tide of the battle for control of Italy.

Paestrum, Salerno, Italy
Paestrum, Salerno, Italy

Paestrum was a major Greek city on the southern Italian coast which is famous for its three temples that date back to around 550 to 450BC. The temples themselves are well preserved, as are the city walls and amphitheatre. There are many other wonderful sites that can be visited as part of your “Italian Campaign”.

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Activity Beach City Florida St Augustine Sun USA

St Augustine, FL

St Augustine itself is the oldest city in the USA, it is home to the oldest wooden school house in the USA and it is the location of the oldest street in the USA.  The St Augustine tourist authority describes the destination as full of old-world charm, historical monuments, unique attractions, world class shopping, sunny weather and beaches just minutes away.  On that basis St Augustine makes an ideal holiday destination for everyone.

Aviles Street, St Augustine, Florida, USA
Aviles Street, St Augustine, Florida, USA

Aviles Street in St. Augustine is the oldest street in the USA.  Archaeologists digging down several layers under the brick paving, have found pottery shards from the early 1600s. The Pilgrim Fathers didn’t land on the continent until 1620.  This historic street is also St. Augustine’s original artist district, dating back to the 1930s when the Hamblin Hardware warehouse at 11 Aviles Street was transformed into studio and gallery spaces for artists. The street also boasts some of St Augustine’s oldest historical sites.

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is one of the best preserved colonial buildings in the town and is preserved to recall the first tourist boom in Florida from the 1830s to 1850s.  The Spanish Military Hospital Museum is an authentic reconstruction of a military hospital that stood on this site during the Second Spanish Colonial Period (1784–1821) and depicts the state of care that was on offer during the 1790s.. Finally the Father O’Reilly House Museum that was constructed in 1691, purchased by Father Miguel O’Reilly in 1785. Father Miguel, an Irish priest in the service of the preserving the old values.

Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in the USA, St Augustine, Florida, USA
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in the USA, St Augustine, Florida, USA

The Oldest Wooden School House is cited as being the oldest wooden school building in the United States. The exact date of construction is unknown, but it first appears on tax records in 1716. We know that it cannot have been built before 1702 because the British burnt the City to the ground. Since 1937 the building has been encircled by a large chain, to help anchor it to the ground in case of a hurricane. The classroom was one of the first in the US to be co-ed educating both boys and girls since 1788.

Bridge of Lions, St Augustine, Florida, USA
Bridge of Lions, St Augustine, Florida, USA

In 1982, the Bridge of Lions was added to the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in the mid-1920s as a way for cars to travel from St. Augustine on the mainland to Anastasia Island The bridge is a double-leaf bascule bridge, also known simply as a drawbridge, which allows commercial and recreational boats to pass through a center channel when the moveable span is in the up position.  It poses a magical image at dusk as it is all lit up.

There is plenty more to see in St Augustine.  We haven’t even mentioned the pirates!!  I hope that the video above by “Dawes” has inspired you to find out more about this beautiful city, often forgotten as a holiday destination due the bright lights and thrill rides of destinations like Miami and Orlando.

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Activity Beach City Uncategorized

Los Angeles, CA

It might seem strange to suggest that you visit LA because of the beaches, but it actually has some of the best beaches in the US. The names of them are easily recalled by most of us due to their locations being used in numerous US films and TV series. Venice Beach is one of LA’s most known beaches, with its numerous galleries, quirky shops, street performers, what is less well known are the Venice canals. Whilst in the area dont’t miss out on Muscle Beach. The perfect place for people watching.

Guitar Player – Venice Beach LA

Many people prefer Santa Monica Beach to Venice, I will leave that up to you to decide. Santa Monica attracts more than 7 million visitors a year who come primarily for the beach connection. It is also close to other Los Angeles attractions. Santa Monica is very attractive as a walkable and bike friendly destination. Don’t miss a trip to the world famous Santa Monica Pier, yes they have them in the States as well.

Santa Monica Beach, LA, CA
Santa Monica Beach, LA

For the kids and young wizards at heart. Los Angeles is home to the brand new Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Hollywood. Complete with its own Hogwarts Castle and Harry Potter themed rides. Of course you can not really visit Los Angeles without doing something celebrity / entertainment based. You can make your own tour if you plan ahead or book yourself onto many of the themed tours. Fully recommended are the tours of Universal Studios, Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures or Sony Pictures. Finally we can not do justice to all LA has to offer so we will be back.

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Activity City Europe Heritage Italy Uncategorized Venice

Venice, Italy

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.

Canal Grande, Venice, Italy
Canal Grande, Venice, Italy

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.

Venice at Night, Italy
Venice at Night, Italy

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.

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Activity City Sun

Lisbon, Portugal

Despite a history of earthquakes, Lisbon has always been an important city through the ages. The Romans, the Berbers, the Moors and then Reconquista knights have all taken a interest in Lisbon due to its position of the River Targus. The Torre de Belém is the most iconic building in the region, dominating the entrance to Lisboa harbour on the north bank of the river. Originally built in the 16th century and subsequently improved over the years, it would have been the last part of the country that sailors who sailed west to discover and visit the new world across the Atlantic Ocean would have seen.

An absolute must when visiting Lisbon is a ride on the trams. There are two types of tram, the historic “Remodelado” trams or the modern Siemens “Articulado” trams. In fact the best way to get to the Torre de Belém is by the modern No 15 tram. However you must travel on the historic No 28 tram that will work its way up the steep, cobbled roads and into the old Alfama district. The Alfama district is one of the top destinations for tourists in Lisbon. It is the oldest part of the city dating back to the time of the Moors. It survived the 1755 earthquake as its built on dense bedrock. Up here you will step back in time. Wander through its narrow streets, tiny squares, visit it’s churches and wonder about the history that has taken place inside those whitewashed houses. In the evening you will find many great restaurants to eat in or out and you will are bound to hear Fado music, dates back to the 1820s.

Tram - Lisbon - Walkerssk
Tram – Lisbon

There are many more places to visit in Lisbon and now it’s off the UK quarantine list, it makes a great destination for a short break or the starting point for a tour of the country. Don’t miss out on visiting the solid looking and imposing Santa Maria Maior de Lisboa, known locally as simply the Sé. Finally you must not miss out on the Pasteis de Nata, deliciously soft, sweet, custard tarts, that are a cult in Lisbon.

Pasteis de Nata - Portuguese Custard Tart -CarolinaP
Pasteis de Nata – Portuguese Custard Tart
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City Europe Heritage Latvia Riga

Riga, Latvia

Riga stands at the centre of the Baltic States, Estonia to the north and Lithuanian to the south. Both are easily reached from Riga. Hire a car and get to Tallin the capital of Estonia in 4 hours and Kaunas the capital of Lithuania is 3 hours, 30 minutes away. Currently UK citizens can freely travel to and return from the Baltic States.

Riga, Latvia, Germans Alenins
Riga, Latvia

Besides being the largest of the Baltic capitala it is a very beautiful city full of gothic and medieval architecture. Unlike other European capitals that are heaving with tourists in the summer months, Riga is full of Latvians. Not being on the top ten list of most city break fans even pre-Covid it was a good option and now its even better.

For travellers on a budget staying and eating out in Riga represents great value for money. Prices are in line with destinations in Poland, Hungary and Romania. Restaurant prices are about half of those in most UK cities.

Riga, Latvia, AG-Pics
Riga, Latvia

Well what is there to do in Riga? First stop would be the St Peter’s Church. The church dates back to 1209 and has undergone various transformations over the years. The most recent due to damage caused by artillery fire in 1941. Head up to the viewing platform to experience superb views across the rooftops.

Like many towns and cities across Eastern Europe, Riga has reminders of its time under the influence of the Soviet Union. A trip to the Latvia Academy of Sciences, a mini Empire State building, head up to the 17th floor of this 1950’s building for an alternative outlook on the city.

Maybe we have too much of an interest in the macabre. Head off to the “Corner House”, the former headquarters of the KGB which is very emotional. Not a fun way to spend a day, certainly sobering and puts into perspective Latvia’s recent history.

Baltic Sea Riga Latvia Edgars Koronevskis
Baltic Sea Riga Latvia

On a happier note, there are plenty of back streets, markets, restaurants etc to visit to keep you busy but if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle then visit Ķīpsala Beach right in the centre of Riga on the River Daugava. A little further afield there are several beaches within easy reach of Riga. With 500km of coastline there is bound to be a beach to suit you.

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City Europe Heritage Road Scotland UK Uncategorized

Scotland, UK

Starting and ending at Inverness Castle the North 500, is a 516 mile route that takes in some of the more remote parts of Northern Scotland. The route works its way along the west coast to Applecross and then northwards towards the towns of Torridon and Ullapool. From there, you’ll embark on a drive to some of the most northerly coastal points of mainland Scotland, including Caithness. From John o’ Groats you head south through Dingwall back to Inverness.

How could you not be tempted to drive the North 500 yourself? In fact you could even cycle or walk the route. If driving allow yourself the best part of a week and you are advised to book your accommodation in advance particularly during the summer season.

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City Europe Poland Warsaw

Warsaw, Poland

In 1945 85% of Warsaw had been destroyed but walking around the old town today you would have no idea. It has been reconstructed with alleys, houses and churches so faithfully that the area has earned UNESCO World Heritage Status. The plan was to recreate the city’s late 18th century appearance, you can judge for yourself how successful they have been. Old drawings, plans and even paintings by the famous Italian landscape artist Bernardo Bellotto were used to aid the reconstruction. You can find more details on the UNESCO site. The majority of the work was completed by the mid 1960s but the final piece was finished in 1984 with the opening of the Royal Palace.

The most historic part of the Old Town is the old market square. Here you can dine out and watch the world go by surrounded by magificent Renaissance and Baroque buildings where in years gone by the town’s merchants would have lived. Whilst visiting the Old Town do not miss out on a visit to the Royal Palace which is now a museum and the Castle Square where Bill Clinton welcomed Poland to NATO in 1997.

Warsaw Old Town Copyright Jacqueline Maco
Warsaw Old Town

If you have a fascination for architecture from the Communist era then you must not miss the 237 meter tall Palace of Culture and Science. The building was a gift from the Soviet Union to the people of Poland in 1955 and today houses four theatres, two museums and a multi-plex cinema amongst its offerings. Take a trip up to the 30th floor observation tower for a great view of the city.

Palace of Culture and Science Copyright Andrzej
Palace of Culture and Science

Other notable stopping points on your visit to Warsaw might include the Warsaw Uprising Museum where you can discover the story of the August to October 1944 uprising that led to much of the destruction of the city by the Germans, with many before and after images. A relatively recent addition to the museums in the city is the Museum of the History of Polish Jews (POLIN) that was fully opened in 2014 and documents the lives of Jews over the thousand years during which Poland became home to the largest Jewish community in Europe.