There isn’t a single wisp of smoke curling out of the top of Mount Vesuvius as we walk up its stony brown slopes.
A few birds are twittering in the bushes, but we leave we them behind as the path rises above fertile ground. It’s silent, except for the scrunch of feet on clinker. It’s too quiet, too calm. Are we about to get taken out in an unexpected rumble of smoke, ash, flames and …
If you’re considering Venice as your next destination, you’ll have done your research and know exactly what you want to see and what to expect, so I’ll not be giving you a Venice ‘to-do list’ as such. Instead, I’ll encourage you to people watch instead. Step away from the well-trodden tourist path and see where the locals live.
While walking along the cobbled back streets of Venice, which are encased with tall ancient dwellings on …
Although the name Glastonbury is synonymous with one of the world’s most famous music festivals, there is more to the tiny Somerset town than the annual gathering of peace and love at nearby Worthy Farm. With a population of approximately 9,000, Glastonbury brims with myths and legends. It’s a meeting point for some of England’s most important “ley lines” – the metaphysical connections which link ancient spiritual sites around the world.
In addition to tourists, …
The Islamic Moorish tradition in Spain holds a remarkable place in history, leaving an indelible mark on Spanish culture, architecture, and society. Spanning over seven centuries, from the early 8th century to the late 15th century, this period witnessed a rich amalgamation of Islamic, European, and Jewish influences. The Moors, a diverse group of Muslims from North Africa and the Middle East, brought with them a vibrant intellectual heritage, contributing to the flourishing of arts, …
Hadrian’s Wall is a historically significant monument representing the northern frontier of the Roman Empire in Britain. Constructed under the rule of Emperor Hadrian, the wall’s purpose, dimensions, and preservation efforts make it a fascinating subject of study for historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike.
Hadrian’s Wall was built by Roman legions under the rule of Emperor Hadrian, who ascended to the throne in 117 AD. During his reign, he visited Britain in 122 AD and, …
Situated a mere fifty minutes from London by train, the cosmopolitan seaside city of Brighton is perfect for a day trip or weekend break from the capital. Alternatively, for those who prefer a more laid-back vibe than London offers, Brighton makes an ideal base from which to explore both the capital and the beautiful surrounding countryside of Sussex.
The city itself is known for its free-spirited attitude and vibrant nightlife combined with a big dose …
Why Less is More on the Balearic Islands
At just eighteen kilometers total from tip to tip, Formentera looks like a boomerang being tossed off the southeastern coast of Spain. It is nothing more than a croissant crumb on the world map, and though most people have heard of rockin’ Ibiza or artsy Mallorca, Formentera usually draws a ‘Where’s that?’ when mentioned. The answer to that telling question is nowhere. There’s not much going down …
Mankind has always sought to leave a mark on the world, a testament to our existence, beliefs, and art. Among the most puzzling and fascinating imprints of our ancestors are the ancient geoglyphs—colossal figures etched into the earth’s surface. These gigantic artworks depict a variety of figures, from geometric shapes to animals and humans, spread across diverse geographies. They are enigmatic remnants of ancient civilizations, their purpose, construction, and symbolic meaning often shrouded in mystery. …
Amsterdam is the beautiful capital city of the Netherlands. It is a city steeped deep in 17th-century history through its buildings, streets, and canal ways. It is home to windmills or windmolen as they say in Dutch – the language of Holland. There were once 10,000 working windmills in this region which have withered down to a mere 1000. They were once used to produce flour, mustard, and oil and are an inherent part of …
Whether admiring the stunning architecture or dipping into a quirky absinthe bar, the beautiful medieval city of Prague is perfect for exploring on foot. It’s probably the best way to experience the city, as I discovered recently when I took my first trip to the Czech capital. Sure, there’s an easily navigable and efficient metro system, but for those who like to walk, there’s nothing like pounding the streets to become intimately acquainted with the …
Cappadocia is a historic district that lies north of the Taurus Mountains, at the heart of Turkey. It is renowned for its awe-inspiring scenery, characterized by expansive soft volcanic rock formations molded by erosion into cones, valleys, towers, and caves.
In 1963, a local resident stumbled upon a hidden entrance in his home when he uncovered a passageway that led to a labyrinth of underground chambers, including dwellings, storage rooms, stables, schools, wineries, and even …
Considered the jewel of the Austrian Alps, the Gastein Valley lies an hour south of Salzburg, in the heart of the majestic Austrian Alps. Other than the fantastic thermal spa and panoramic views of the Hohe Tauern National Park, the mountains surrounding Gastein are what it’s all about.
From the west side of the valley, cable cars rise two miles to the summit of Stubnerkogel. From there, a variety of ski runs and several lifts …
One of the perks of visiting Lisbon is that it’s a short jaunt from both the beautiful Portuguese coastline and, intriguingly, a mountainous whimsical wonderland. Just 40 minutes from Lisbon by train, the town of Sintra is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Portugal’s capital city. Sintra is tucked away in the mystical wooded hills of the Serra Mountains, surrounded by fairy-tale palaces, and enchanting gardens and overlooked by a Moorish castle. …
Bordeaux, France is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and of course, its renowned wine industry. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something for everyone in Bordeaux and the surrounding areas. Here are some suggestions for things to do on your next visit.
Explore the City:
Bordeaux is a beautiful city with much to offer. Start by taking a stroll along the riverfront and admiring the historic buildings, such as …
