Category : Italy
Posted in Italy on 03. Oct, 2011
For its crystal-clear coves and breathtaking coastal scenery, Dubrovnik truly is “the pearl of the Adriatic.” Its fascinating Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the many charming hotels in Dubrovnik (like the Hotel Lapad and the Hotel Excelsior) draw travelers from around the world every year. George Bernard Shaw was famously enchanted by the Croatian city; he was said, “those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik.” Once there, be sure to take in these five great sights:
The Big Fountain of Ononfrio
Named for its architect, Onofrio de la Cava, the Big Fountain of Ononfrio is one of Dubrovnik’s most famous monuments. It was constructed in 1438-1444; however, a large portion was lost in a major earthquake in 1667. Like the rest of the city, the fountain was terribly damaged during that time. At one point, it was part of Dubrovnik’s original water supply system, designed to move water from the Dubrovacka River. Nowadays, it is merely a reminder of the past—albeit a uniquely beautiful and interesting one.
The Old City Walls
No trip to Dubrovnik would be complete without exploring the city’s ancient walls. They comprise one of the destination’s most famous attractions. The Old City Walls date back to the 10th century; most were modified during the 13th and 14th centuries. Altogether, the walls measure 1,949 metres (6,390 feet) long, and some are up to 6 metres (19 feet) thick. No longer used to ward off intruders from other countries, the Croatian fortifications can still feel quite intimidating. Highlights include the two towers, the Minceta Tower and the Bokar Tower, and the two forts of Lovrjenac and Revelin.
Knezev Dvor
Also designed by Onofrio de la Cava, Knezev Dvor—the Rector’s Palace—has been standing since 1435. However, the architecture has certainly changed over the years: Today it is a unique mix of late Gothic and early Renaissance-style elements. A devastating gunpowder explosion, a fire, the earthquake of 1667—these and other historic events caused the changes, and now Knezev Dvor tells the story of Dubrovnik through its architecture. The palace routinely hosts classical music performances and other events during the summer. Throughout the year, you may marvel at the bust of Miho Pracat and the various items within the city museum located on the top floor of the palace. Of particular note are the 15,000 pieces and paintings by Venetian and Dalmatian artists.
Tvrda Sv Ivana
Tvrda Sv Ivana, or the Fort of St. John, is situated on the eastern edge of the historic Old Town. Originally built to be a defensive structure, the imposing building now houses several modern tourist attractions. The Maritime Museum of Dubrovnik features delightful displays that depict the city’s maritime past, including model boats and naval artifacts. Meanwhile, the Aquarium of Dubrovnik is home to a variety of exotic fish and local species. The collection of sea horses is especially popular. At the very top of the Fort of St. John, you will find the Bokar Fort. Designed by Michelozzo Michelozzi, the vantage point still showcases one of the finest views of Dubrovnik.
The Dominican Monastery
When construction fist started in 1315, the Dominican Monastery’s originators did not foresee the vast size of the building. The massive complex grew outwards of the old city walls and while it was eventually damaged in the 1667 earthquake, it still commands an impressive presence. Architectural highlights include the late Gothic cloister, designed by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo of Florence in the 15th century; it is surrounded by fragrant orange trees. In the east wing of the monastery, you will find a museum that houses religious paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries. Precious artifacts, especially those made of gold and silver, may also attract your attention. For these and other reasons, the Dominican Monastery remains a popular place to linger and reflect.
Posted in Italy on 30. Sep, 2011
If you have any doubt that great things come in small packages, here are some petite countries in Europe sure to provide you with memorable experiences. Including a territory wedged between two countries, two territories surrounded by single countries, an island and the centre of a religion, the only thing these diverse countries have in common is their small size.
Malta, 122 square miles
Just south of Sicily, the rich history of Malta goes back thousands of years, during which it has been home to the British, the French, Christian Crusaders, Normans, Arabs, Romans, Greeks and, if you go back far enough, the Phoenicians. Pretty much any great people who have learned to navigate the surrounding Mediterranean Sea have spent time in control of this strategically located island. You can just imagine all the treasures to be discovered in a place with such a unique and diverse history. Much of these treasures can be found in the walled city of Mdina, which is 30 minutes from Valletta and 45 minutes from St. Julian’s. With twisting narrow walkways too narrow for cars, non-residents must park outside the ancient city walls and walk in and around. Though landmarks include the 1693 St. Paul’s Cathedral with its Albrecht Dürer woodcuts, it doesn’t seem like much has changed since the Arabs left over 1,000 years ago. And the view from the city walls is not one you will soon forget. Hotels can be found in all major cities.
Liechtenstein, 62 square miles
Clinging to the side of the timeless River Rhine and straddling a particularly pretty stretch of the border between Austria and Switzerland, this nation of 34,000 people has the second highest gross domestic product per person on the planet, as well as the world’s lowest external debt. US Senators and Congressmen may want to take note. This is partly because the Principality of Liechtenstein is known as a tax haven, and as a result, many come here to get their shopping done. The only country in the world located 100% in the Alps, Liechtenstein is also a popular winter sports destination. Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, a drive around the tiny country is a nature-lover’s delight, no matter what time of the year. The capital city is Vaduz, the largest city is Schaan, and the largest museum is the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein. There’s also a stamp museum and a ski museum, and the most famous historical site is Vaduz Castle, which can be easily reached from any Liechtenstein hotel.
San Marino, 24 square miles
Up in the eastern edge of the Apennine Mountains is the fairytale-like nation known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino. Founded on September 3rd, 301 BCE by stonecutter Marinus of Rab, San Marino claims to be the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world. Rome, four hours to the south, was still a power when San Marino came into existence, and with the largely untouched forests and mountains that make up most of the country, chances are the views haven’t changed too much in all that time. The most famous sight in the country is the Three Towers of San Marino, which are located on the three peaks of Monte Titano in the capital city. Just one look and you’ll see why. Dating back as far as the 11th century, these beautiful gravity-defying towers appear on the national flag, and the San Marino’s signature dessert, the Torta Di Tre Monti (Cake of the Three Towers) takes their inspiration from them as well. There are also many comfortable San Marino hotels.
Monaco, 0.7 square miles
The Grand Prix. Princess Grace. The Monte Carlo Casino. No other country on this list has such a glamorous reputation as the tiny Principality of Monaco, which is nestled on the French Riviera between the cities of Nice and Menton. And no other country on this list offers so many different things to do in such a small area. Boasting the world’s highest life expectancy rate (just under 90 years), Monaco has been ruled by the House of Grimaldi since 1297. While there you can take a walk through the Medieval village of Monaco-Ville and take a tour of the Prince’s Palace (where you can watch the changing of the guard) and the 1875 Cathedral. The Oceanographic Museum displays 4,000 species of fish and over 200 different kinds of invertebrates, all 270 metres above sea level, and the Jardin Exotique (Exotic Gardens) offers several thousand rare plants from around the world, as well as a grotto and some killer views of the Mediterranean. And don’t miss City Hall, the Monaco Opera House and the Marlborough Fine Arts Gallery. After a full day of exploring, how nice to collapse in the comfort of a Monaco hotel.
Vatican City, 0.2 square miles
Officially the Stato della Città del Vaticano, this walled enclave within the city of Rome proves that the smaller the country, the longer the name. With a present population of 800, Vatican City was established in 1929 during the reign of Mussolini. But of course, the invaluable treasure trove of landmarks and treasure go back millennia. In fact, the world-famous home of the Pope is said to be built atop the bones of St. Peter himself, the first Pope of the Catholic Church. The list of some of the world’s greatest treasures to be found in the Vatican is way too long for just one paragraph, but let’s be sure to mention the Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, designed by Michelangelo, which is tall enough to fit both the Statue of Liberty and its pedestal underneath. Then there’s St. Peter’s Square itself and the Vatican Museum, as well as the Palazzo di Giustizia (Palace of Justice). Though there are no hotels within Vatican City, the two-star Residenza Paolo VI is the only hotel located right off of St. Peter’s Square.
Trick or treat.
Though Halloween may be a strictly American holiday, the USA has nothing on Europe when it comes to the scary stuff. Europe is, after all, the continent where vampires, werewolves and witches first showed their evil faces. Dracula is from Transylvania, Frankenstein, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde are all from England, and let’s not even get started on the Brothers Grimm. And now even the American-style Halloween of costumes and parties and haunted houses is catching on in Europe. So here are some creepy European cities to spend your Halloween.
Edinburgh, Scotland
With its many ancient dark buildings and its crooked cobbled streets, Edinburgh provides the perfect atmosphere for Gothic horror. Edinburgh, like so many other cities, is also steeped in tales of bloody murder and torture, and you don’t have to wait until Halloween to experience it. Your first choice is to visit Edinburgh Castle, which is itself the site of centuries of drama. Your second choice is to let the guides at Auld Reekie Tours show you around. Here you’ll hear many horrible stories about the city’s dark doings of the past, like the famous story of local menial workers turned grave robbers turned murderers Burke and Hare. They also offer a special Halloween Ghost Hunt. If you want to explore Edinburgh’s dark underbelly, you can pay a visit to the the city’s famous Dungeons, covering 500 years of Edinburgh’s gory history on 11 actor led shows and two scary rides.
Paris, France
The City of Lights also has a dark side, and there are three chilling ways to experience it. The Paris Ghost Tour is a walking tour and pub crawl covering the satanic conspiracies of the 17th-19th centuries, the true Sweeney Todd of Paris and the Vampire of Paris, a real life serial killer and cannibal. You won’t need a tour guide to visit Père Lachaise Cemetery. Just buy yourself a map at the entrance and you can see the final resting places of such historical figures as Frederic Chopin, Oscar Wilde and of course the Lizard King himself, Jim Morrison. Unfortunately, there are still six feet of dirt between you and all these famous bones. But if you want to remove that barrier, just head to the famous Paris Catacombs, where you can come face to skull with over six million Parisians from centuries past. Here beneath the city in a maze of old tunnels left over from an ancient quarry, you’ll find chamber after chamber of bones arranged in the most artistic ways.
Prague, Czech Republic
Considered by some to be the most haunted city in Europe, Prague is home to the Golem and to the 15th century Old Jewish Cemetery, whose lack of space has led to centuries of bodies being buried atop other bodies until this tangled, crowded mass of graves is now covering up to 12 layers of the deceased. But Prague’s main Halloween attraction actually lies outside the city limits in the nearby town of Sedlec in the world-famous Sedlec Ossuary. A small Roman Catholic chapel, located beneath the Cemetery Church of All Saints, the ossuary traces its origins back to the 14th century when the Black Death when thousands of people were buried here. When the church was built in the middle of the cemetery, the lower chapel was piled high with the bones that had to be removed, and in 1870, František Rint, a woodcarver, was employed by the Schwarzenberg family to put the bone heaps into order. The macabre result includes four enormous bell-shaped mounds of bones in the corners of the chapel, an enormous chandelier of bones hanging from the center of the nave and garlands of skulls draping the vault. Don’t miss the Schwarzenberg coat-of-arms, and the signature of Rint, which are also both made of bones.
Palermo, Italy
While the Sicilian capital of Palermo doesn’t actually boast any real-life zombies, it does boast the Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini). Here you’ll have the closest to a zombie experience as is possible as you walk past centuries-old monks and other Palermo citizens who have all been mummified and await your visit, standing up and in their Sunday best! The bodies were dehydrated, sometimes washed with vinegar and sometimes embalmed. Originally reserved for the monks, the catacombs became a very fashionable place to spend eternity, and families would fight for the best spots to be seen by future generations. In their wills, local luminaries would ask to be preserved in favorite outfits and even to have their clothes changed at regular intervals. There are thousands of mummies in different states of decay, stretching back over 500 years.
Copenhagen, Denmark
If you’d like your Halloween experience to be a little less authentic, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens Amuseument Park is closer to the US model, presenting Halloween chills and thrills similar to Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Studios. Surrounded by thousands of pumpkins, hay bales, spiders and scarecrows, you’re invited to experience such attractions as the Witches Circus, Thriller Mini-Disco and a daily Halloween parade. The action takes place between October 14 and 23. That’s when the park’s playful witches are waiting for you at The Old Mill in the Halloween Village, where they brew magic potions and sing witchy songs. Kids of all ages can carve their own jack-o-lanterns and thrill to the sight of Denmark’s largest pumpkin. This is also the site of the Danish Pumpkin Championship.
Hotels
Edinburgh hotels
Paris hotels
Prague hotels
Palermo hotels
Copenhagen hotels
It’s no surprise that the city that has been the centre of the Catholic Church as long as there’s been a Church, the city that boasts Churches dating from the fourth century and the city that claims to have St. Peter’s bones would have such a wealth of fantastic Churches. In fact, the Eternal City boasts over 900 Churches, Cathedrals and Basilicas, and one could spend the better part of a month trying to see them all. If you’re only looking at a couple of days in the Italian capital city, here are five Churches you will not want to miss.
Arcibasilica Papale di San Giovanni in Laterano
Built by Constantine the Great, the Papal Archbasilica of St. John Lateran is Rome’s Cathedral and the first Church of the Popes. Before the Vatican, this is where the Pope sat for nearly a thousand years — from the fourth century until the papacy moved to France in 1309. Going back further, this is the site of the first Christian church ever built in Rome. The Pope lived in the adjoining Lateran Palace, and whether you’re a history buff or you just want to see something truly amazing, this place cannot be missed. Though the current Baroque exterior of the Church is much newer, inside await treats that span the entire history of Christian civilization. There are even some pre-Christian features, like the central bronze doors which once graced the Senate House in the Imperial Forum. Your visit includes the cloisters, a museum to give you historical perspective, the baptistery next door and the Scala Santa and Sancta Sanctorum across the street.
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
With 26 Marian Churches in Rome (Santa Maria in Trastevere, Santa Maria in Aracoeli, etc.), you can’t help noticing that this is a city that loves their Saint Mary. But the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore earns its “Maggiore” by being by far the largest. Like San Giovanni in Laterano, this is one of Rome’s four patriarchal churches, and in addition to its large size, there are plenty of goodies spanning the centuries to be seen on the inside. There’s the rich marble floor, the bell tower, the triumphal arch… and then there are the mosaics. The mosaics here date from the fifth century and include some of the oldest representations of the Virgin Mary in Christian Late Antiquity. Be sure not to miss the magnificent mosaics on the arch depicting different scenes of Christ and the Virgin Mary. And it’s hard to miss the spectacular ceiling, which is said to be decorated with gold Columbus brought back from the new world.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon is less important from its time as a Church and much more important as the most well-preserved building from the times of the Roman Empire. If it’s frustrating gazing at the ruins of the Coliseum and the Forum and having to imagine them in all their splendor, there’s no imagining necessary at the Pantheon, as it’s still in the same pristine shape as when it was built back in the year 125 CE by Emperor Hadrian. Granted, this Temple once devoted to all the Roman Gods has undergone some changes since becoming yet another Church devoted to St. Mary, walking in the entrance is largely the same experience as it would have been nearly 2,000 years ago. Until the 20th century, it was the largest concrete structure in the world. The great dome, which spans just over 43 metres, was the largest dome in the world until Brunelleschi’s 1436 dome in Florence. Michelangelo himself studied it before starting work on the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. Inside are many tombs, some holding the bodies of Italian monarchs.
Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano
Unfortunately, Rome has no time machine. But the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano makes a pretty good substitute. Located near the Colosseum, the 12th century San Clemente sits on top of a fourth century Church built over a first century Christian meeting place that’s above a first century BCE Mithraic cult chamber. And you’ll be surprised at how many layers and how many artifacts from each layer are still there and can still be seen. You can start in the 21st century and attend a service in the still-active Church. Then you can marvel at 12th century frescoes and the mosaic of the Cross as the Tree of Life. Then travel back in time to the fourth-century Basilica before moving down to the Pagan temple! The history of the Church and what came before it are all incredibly on display in one spot.
Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
But if you’re not satisfied with all these paintings and mosaics and statuary depicting stories from the Bible… If you’d like to see some of the “real thing,” then head to the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme (Basilica of the Sacred Cross in Jerusalem) and see some of the relics of the actual items. The idea must have been, if you can’t make it to Jerusalem, we’ll bring Jerusalem to you. And with that in mind, this unique Church presents you with a collection of Passion Relics brought to Rome from the Holy Land by St. Helena of Constantinople, mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine I. Though the floor is no longer covered with soil from Jerusalem, you can still see part of the Elogium (the panel which was hung on Christ’s Cross, two thorns of the crown, an incomplete nail and three small wooden pieces of the True Cross itself. Other relics include a large fragment of the Good Thief’s cross, the bone of an index finger, said to be the finger St. Thomas placed in the wounds of the Risen Christ and pieces of the Scourging Pillar, the Holy Sepulchre (Christ’s tomb) and the crib of Jesus.
Hotels
Here are some excellent hotel choices, each of which will put you close to each of the five Churches and most of which are themselves set in historical buildings:
The San Giovanni in Laterano Hotel near the Arcibasilica Papale di San Giovanni in Laterano
The Hotel Antico Palazzo Rospigliosi near the Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Hotel Pantheon near the Pantheon
The Aklesia B&B – Suite Colosseo near the Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano
The Domus Sessoriana Hotel near the Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme
Ah, the airport hotel. Those drab, personality-free shoeboxes set out somewhere on a lonely road, far from the cities we’ve come to visit. The things we give up for the convenience of being near our flight. But it doesn’t have to be like that! The fact is that there are now many hotels set near airports that give you all the same luxuries, services and comforts of their downtown counterparts – and with the added convenience of an airport hotel. Here are five great examples of four or five star luxury hotels located minutes from your flight.
Sofitel London Heathrow Hotel, London
The Sofitel chain specializes in providing premium accommodation experiences, and the five-star Sofitel London Heathrow Hotel is no exception. Impressively sized with 605 guest rooms, this is the only hotel providing direct access to Heathrow’s Terminal Five via a covered walkway, and Terminals One, Two, Three and Four are minutes away via the courtesy Heathrow Express/Heathrow Connect rail connection, which can also have you in central London in just 21 minutes. The full-service ESPA offers five treatment rooms, a relaxation room, a hammam and a Massage Hydro Suite, as well as a steam room, a sauna and a vitality pool. Hungry? La Belle Époque serves classic French cuisine, while Tea 5 serves traditional English tea, coffees, and pastries, desserts and light meals. Then there’s Vivre for casual dining with an open kitchen and live cooking demonstrations in the evening. If you’re looking for nightlife, Sphere is a chic bar and lounge with an distinctive fireplace and Icelandic décor, serving snacks, artesian beverages, tap beers, cocktails, and a variety of wines, and you can also grab a drink at the Library Bar.
Radisson BLU Hotel Amsterdam Airport Hotel, Amsterdam
The five-star Radisson BLU Hotel Amsterdam Airport also does a great job of balancing luxury and convenience with a free shuttle service that can have you at your gate in minutes and distinctively decorated guest rooms. You can choose between Maritime, Oriental and Scandinavian décor, and the public spaces in the 10-story high, 279 room accommodation offer a cutting edge atmosphere with a hint of Art Deco touches, from the gold leaf in the ceiling-mounted disks of light to the marble and black veneer of the reception desk. When it’s time to relax, you can get a massage in the spa treatment room or just melt away in the steam room and the sauna. When it’s time to eat, you can either be in central Amsterdam in minutes (or central Den Haag) or stay in and enjoy gourmet Mediterranean cuisine like in the glow of silver candlesticks at the hotel’s restaurant, Talavera. Grilled Scallops with Flash-Fried Red Tuna is a favourite, a hot-and-cold buffet breakfast is served daily, and summer barbecues are held on the outside terrace. For informal dining, there’s the intimate Lighthouse, which displays paintings by local artists, and Rodolpho’s invites you to enjoy a drink in a bijou armchair.
Hilton Madrid Airport Hotel, Madrid
If you want to spread out in comfort as you wait to catch your flight out of Barajas Airport, the Hilton Madrid Airport Hotel can help by offering you a 37 square metre guest room with floor-to ceiling windows and heated floors. Marble bathrooms, flat-screen plasma TVs and indoor and outdoor swimming pools are some of the other premium amenities that make this five-star, 284-room hotel something special. The free airport shuttle service to the airport also goes to the city centre, so you’ll feel a great sense of mobility. But with the 24-hour gym, sauna, steam bath and hydro-therapy pool, staying in also sounds like a great idea. For dining, the hotel’s La Plaza offers seasonal local specialities like Serrano ham and churros, while the stylish Reserva Grill specialized in grilled Spanish meats and fish, accompanied by delicious side dishes and wine. The Ferrum Bar is more than just a bar, offering one last opportunity to enjoy hot and cold tapas before you head back home, accompanied by an expertly mixed cocktail or a flute of Champagne.
Albergo Hotel, Berlin
The four-star luxury Albergo Hotel may have you a bit confused, as you wonder how you arrived in Tuscany without even getting on your airplane. But what’s wrong with a little bit of Italy near Berlin’s Schonefeld Airport? This sunny accommodation offers a southern flair accompanied by spa facilities ranging from a sauna with its own roof garden, to a solarium to a modern fitness centre, all open 24 hours a day. The Tuscan stylings of the hotel continue in the 50 guest rooms and in the Ristorante Albergo Restaurant, which may make you want to get on a plane bound for Siena, wherever you’re actually going. You can enjoy exotic cocktails in the Albergo’s bar, and you even have time for an extra drink or two, thanks to the shuttle service that can have you at the airport in just minutes.
Residenza D Epoca Pietra di Ponente, Rome
Going from faux-Italy to the real thing, the four-star Residenza D Epoca Pietra di Ponente Hotel is about as far from an airport hotel as you can get but is still minutes away from Rome’s Ciampino Airport. As you sip wine and take in the view of the countryside surrounding Rome and the Eternal City itself, from the hotel’s open air terrace, your flight will probably be the furthest thing from your mind. Offering just 17 guest rooms, this intimate four-star accommodation is set in a historical building, as you can see from the vaulted ceilings, the ancient fireplace and the cellar which now houses a charming lounge. That wine in your hand comes from the hotel’s serene bar, and you can accompany it with the fresh, regional organic produce used in the authentic cuisine being offered by the hotel restaurant. Dine in the restaurant, out on the terrace or in the privacy of your room. Then take a stroll through the hotel grounds. By the time you have to take that free shuttle ride to the airport, they might have to drag you kicking and screaming.
Think about the house you grew up in. Now picture people from all over the world, traveling thousands of miles just to come into that house to see where you ate, slept, did your homework and watched TV. No offense, but chances are that’s not going to happen – even if it has happened for a handful of gifted composers. Of course, chances are little Wolfgang, Ludwig, Fryderyk, Pyotr and Giacomo never dreamed that their birthplaces would one day be museums. So if you start writing that symphony right now, who knows…?
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, Austria
The house in which Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on the January 27, 1756 has become one of the most popular museums in the world. In addition to original documents and portraits from the composer’s short life, (including his most famous portrait, painted two years before his death), the museum boasts some priceless historical gems, including Mozart’s childhood violin and the very clavichord on which he composed several pieces including The Magic Flute. The history here is palpable, as you gaze upon 18th-century travel utensils, autographs, first editions and early prints of selected works and historic set models and designs. There are costumes to be seen and opera to be heard, as well as original furniture from the time of Mozart. If you find yourself reluctant to return to the 21st century, ancient Salzburg is full of classic hotels where you can prolong the magic.
Ludwig Von Beethoven, Bonn, Germany
Are you ready for the world’s largest collection of Beethoven material? That’s what you’ll find in the Beethoven House, once the place of his birth and now a musical museum that is Bonn’s pride and joy. Though there are no longer any of the original furnishings in the museum, you do get to see over 150 permanent original exhibits of Beethoven’s work and achievements, including the thrill of seeing Beethoven’s actual pianos. In 2009, the Beethoven House acquired handwritten originals of Beethoven’s Opus 120, the Diabelli Variations, and the museum now includes the house next door as well as the actual house of the composer’s birth. Over the years, parts of the house have served other functions. In1873, a ground floor a restaurant was opened, called Beethoven’s Geburtshaus, in 1887 a “Beer & Concerthall” in the courtyard was added to the restaurant. Since then many restoration projects have returned the house to its original state. A highlight for many visitors is Stieler’s famous portrait, which hangs on the wall. Set in the centre of the city, the museum is easily accessible to most Bonn hotels.
Fryderyk Chopin, Żelazowa Wola, Poland
Though his final resting place in Paris’s Père Lachaise Cemetery (where his neighbor is the much more modern composer Jim Morrison) is much more famous, Chopin’s birthplace in his native Poland also makes an interesting place for a visit. Set in the tiny hamlet of Żelazowa Wola, the museum now occupying his birthplace is also a branch of the larger Fryderyk Chopin Museum which is 50 kilometres to the east in Warsaw. Born on the estate belonging to Count Skarbek Fryderyk, Chopin and his family actually lived in an annex right next to the main house. He wasn’t here long, as the family moved to Warsaw when he was just seven months old. The park outside the house is also worth a look, having been designed by the eminent architect Franciszek Krzywda-Polkowski. Rare plants, trees and shrubs from all over the world can be found here. The walls of the park are made completely of glass, so the park and its centre are visible at all times. Two modern pavilions were added to the museum in 2010. One pavilion houses a concert hall with 80 seats, which can be used for viewing movies, and there is also a restaurant. In the house itself, all rooms now bear names that evoke their original functions: Bakery, Alcove, Dining Room, Bedroom, etc. If you’d like to linger in the countryside before returning to Warsaw, the four-star Hotel Chopin is just seven kilometres away in the city of Sochaczew
Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Votkinsk, Russia
From slightly off the beaten path to way off of it, we come to the birthplace of Pyotr Tchaikovsky, which is set in the village of Votkinsk, a mere 1,000 kilometres north east of Moscow. The Tchaikovsky Museum is home to the piano on which the composer learned to play, which seems to be a common theme in these places. But unlike the other birthplace museums, this one also features a balalaika played by a friend of the composer. Many photos from Tchaikovsky’s childhood abound, and the museum illustrates upper-class life in 19th century Russia, offering authentic period décor. The museum opened in April 1940 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of his birth, and the museum totals 16 buildings, including the birth house, the summer house, the coach house, the servants house, the warehouse, and more. The Votkinsky Pond next door is one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the Urals, and on the far bank opposite the house is Blagoveswchensky Cathedral where Tchaikovsky was baptized. While accommodations are scarce in Votkinsk and Moscow may be a little far to travel, you can find hotels 40 kilometres away in the town of Izhevsk.
Giacomo Puccini, Corte San Lorenzo, Italy
The city of Lucca boasts many historical treasures, including this gem, the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini. Set in Corte San Lorenzo and close to the Church of San Paolino, where young Puccini worked as an organist, the museum is managed by the Giacomo Puccini Foundation and contains many personal items of the maestro, from original furniture to awards, to the Messa a Quattro voci (1880), Il Capriccio Sinfonico (1883) and many many personal letters written by Puccini, his family and his manager. You won’t be terribly surprised to find the Steinway piano on which he composed Turandot, his last great opera, though you may certainly be impressed. Though he left for Milan at the age of 22, the house was important enough that Puccini left it to his family in his will. And now is the perfect time to visit, as September 13th is the grand reopening after years of restoration. A hotel in Lucca will give you a front seat for the festivities.
Posted in Italy on 16. Aug, 2011
During the winter, the region offers world-renowned ski slopes. In the summertime, there are spectacular hiking trails. At any time of year, Italy’s Dolomites feature an array of picture-perfect villages tucked amid 90,000 acres of incredible mountain scenery. From scenic drives to shopping for souvenirs to savoring the local cuisine, there are many things to see and do in the Dolomites. Here are our picks for the top 5 activities:
1. Tackle a Via Ferrata
A Via Ferrata (“Iron Way” in English) is a fixed protection climbing path that allows you to traverse the mountainous paths of the Dolomites in an exciting, exhilarating way. Climbers make their way up through the use of a series of metal rungs, safety cables and bridges that form a vertical path to the summit. While the Ferrata Route is not completely unique to the Dolomite area, the paths are most commonly found here—and many would say that no trip to these Italian mountains would be complete without a try! You do not need to be an experienced mountain climber; there are Ferrata tours at every level. Ask the staff of your hotel for more information.
2. Sleep in a Rifugio
And speaking of hotels… While in the Dolomites, definitely take advantage of the opportunity to stay in a classic Rifugio. Typically very simple and rustic in style, these shared lodging are also usually quite comfortable and welcoming. Shared facilities can accommodate anywhere from 20 to 50 hikers, and the communal nature helps to create a convivial, friendly atmosphere. There are many Rifugios in the mountains to choose from—which is great because in the most remote areas, those are the only hotels available! As an extra perk, most also serve food.
3. Drive the Grande Strada delle Dolomiti
A fantastic way to see multiple places in the Dolomites, the Grande Strada delle Dolomiti (“Great Dolomites Road”) is open all year round (Note: Locals often ignore the “closed” labels during the spring and early summer, as the roads have typically dried up by then.) The panoramic pass crosses Falzarego, Pordoi and Karerpass (at the famous Rosengarten.) It also connects Bozen with Bolzano. The entire road stretches 65 miles, and is really the only convenient way to navigate the Dolomites as there is no direct public transportation route. If you must, you may instead take the train to Bolzano and catch a public bus into the mountains; you would, however, miss the unforgettable experience of driving the Grande Strada delle Dolomiti.
4. Visit Marmolada
The crown jewel of the entire mountain range, Marmolada is known as the “Queen of the Dolomites.” It is the tallest mountain, and one of the region’s most popular attractions. Visitors can take a cable car directly to the top, where they are rewarded with magnificent views of the landscape. Additionally, more athletic adventurers can hike underneath the Marmolada Glacier, located on the north face of the mountain. Obviously, the opportunities for outdoor recreation vary greatly depending on the season.
5. Explore the WWI tunnels and galleries
What makes the Dolomites so fascinating is its combination of natural and man-made wonders. This is especially evident at Lagazuoi Mountain, where you can explore an intricate network of galleries and tunnels constructed by the Italians and Austrians during World War I. Take the tour, and be sure to visit the accompanying museum. Afterwards, head to the Rifugio Scotoni to enjoy a delicious meal or to the Rifugio Lagazuoi to take in the spectacular views of the Dolomites before retiring for the evening.
Posted in Italy on 13. Aug, 2011
Overlooking the banks of the timeless Dnieper River, the Ukrainian city of Kiev is one of Europe’s newest – and oldest – capitals. Newest because Ukraine itself has only been a country since the dissolution of the Soviet Union and oldest because the city dates all the way back to the 5th century – with settlements located in this spot going even further back. Modern Kiev is aware of its past, and you’ll benefit from all the golden-domed churches, cathedrals and Soviet-era monuments. A green city as well, it’s said that one can walk from one end of Kiev to the other in the summertime without leaving the shade of its many trees. This is also a city with its eye on the future, with its booming tourist industry filling over 1.6 million hotel rooms in 2009 alone.
The Kiev Cave Monastery
The Kiev Pechersk Lavra to locals, this is one of the country’s oldest and most important monasteries in Ukraine and in all the territory of the former Soviet Union. Founded in 1077 by St Antoniy, the caves were dug out by priests who lived there as hermits. Now the caves are visited by church-goers and tourists alike, who come to see the famous mummified monks. In a throwback to the old days, you must purchase a taper candle in order to find your way around in the dark. Keep in mind, the caves are not recommended for those with claustrophobia or the very tall, and once you enter, there’s no room to turn around. But for the brave-hearted, the journey is worth it. The upper lavra offers a number of museums and the lower lavra is where you’ll find the caves. There are two cave complexes, each housing the mummified remains of monks, as well as religious icons and other relics.
St Sophia’s Cathedral
The perfect antidote for the darkness of the Kiev Pechersk Lavra is gazing up at the sparkling domes of St. Sophia’s Cathedral against the blue sky. The oldest remaining church in Kiev, parts of which date from the 11th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts many paintings and mosaics. Don’t miss the unforgettable Virgin Orans Mosaic. Named for the 6th-century Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, the name does not actually come from a saint named Sophia, but rather from the words “holy wisdom.” Climbing the bell tower provides a wonderful view, and outside the gates, there is a statue commemorating Bogdan Hmelnitski, who liberated Kiev in the 17th century… then handed it over to the Russian Empire. If you even think about taking a photo, be warned that you will incur the wrath of one of the green-robed ladies who are there to maintain order
Motherland Statue
Taller than the Statue of Liberty – and much more bad-ass – the Motherland Statue was the tallest statue on the planet upon its completion over 40 years ago. If you’d like the stats, here they are: 62 metres tall (which added to the Museum of the Great Patriotic War beneath puts the top of the statue at a dizzying 102 metres) and weighing in at 560 tons. The sword in the statue’s right hand alone is nine tons and 16 metres, while the 13 x eight metre shield is adorned by the coat of arms of the Soviet Union. In the Memorial hall of the Museum you’ll find marble plaques with carved names of more than 11,600 soldiers and over 200 workers of the home-front honored during the war with the title of the Hero of the Soviet Union and the Hero of Socialist Labor. If you’re wondering why the sword seems to be square tipped, it’s because it was cut to keep it from being higher than the cross of the Kiev Pechersk
Babi Yar
Kiev was also the site of one of the darkest chapters of World War II; the massacre of between 100,000 and 150,000 innocent civilians by the Germans and their Ukrainian collaborators. In this spot 33,771 Jews were murdered on September 29–30, 1941, in addition to Gypsies, Soviet POWs, communists, Romani, Ukrainian nationalists and civilian hostages. Now a memorial to “Soviet citizens” murdered by the Germans, Babi Yar and its infamous ravine remains as green now as it was then.
Ukrainian National Chernobyl Museum
Another reminder of the area’s dark history can be found in the Ukrainian National Chernobyl Museum, which houses an extensive collection of scale models, visual media, memorabilia, and artifacts concerning Chernobyl disaster of 1986. The nuclear power plant was just 132 kilometres to the north, making Kiev the closest major city. The museum provides a very visually engaging experience, especially the display of road signs struck out with a pink slash for various settlements near Chernobyl that were abandoned after the disaster.
Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life
If these last two destinations have you feeling a little down, then renew your spirits with a visit to the 150 acres of beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Kiev that make up the Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Life. Located in the southwestern suburbs of the small town of
Pyrogove, this is one the largest open air museums in the Ukraine and in the entire world. Here you’ll find over 200 different buildings and monuments showing rural life going back into the centuries. The authentic structures were saved and moved from all over the country. You’ll see live blacksmiths, pottery makers, weavers, coopers and many other skilled craftsmen showing how things used to be done. Sundays feature local choirs along with folk musicians, and there’s a traditional restaurant serving Ukrainian cuisine. The museum also boasts an impressive 40,000 collection of folk costumes, fabrics, embroidery, carpets, ceramics, articles of metal, wood, glassware, musical instruments, paintings, tools and household articles.
When you’re ready to be down for the night, there are plenty of great Kiev hotels.
For one week a year, each of the world’s fashion capitals are filled with fancy parties, beautiful people and full runways, both at the airport and in multiple venues around the city. Welcome to Fashion Week, where top designers unveil their new product lines and give people a sneak peak at what everyone will be wearing in six months. This is where industry decides what’s “in” and what’s “out” for the season. Fashion Week takes place twice a year, and 2011’s second Fashion Week is in the Fall, from September to October, which is just around the corner. We’ll be covering the four fashion capitals of the world: New York City, London, Milan, and Paris, and we’ll throw in Los Angeles for good measure.
New York
September 8-15
New York has been leading the charge ever since they held the first Fashion Week back in 1943, at the height of World War II. In fact, it was the war which was responsible for Fashion Week’s creation, as it was meant to distract consumers from the fact that those working in the fashion trade were unable to travel to France, making New York the de facto fashion capital for the US. New York’s Fashion Week is also known by the name of its major sponsor, which alternates between Olympus and Mercedes-Benz, with the car company taking its turn in 2011. High-powered media moguls and Hollywood movie stars are in abundance, along with the other 100,000 attendees. Local fashion fans who can’t make the festivities can watch over 150 hours of coverage on local TV channel 25, and of course for out of town visitors, there are hundreds of great New York hotels from which to choose.
London
September 15-22
The day New York’s Fashion week ends, London’s begins, so you’ll have to catch a quick flight to make both. Organised by the British Fashion Council for the London Development Agency with help from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, London Fashion Week has many organisers, and Mercedes-Benz is also quite present here. London launched its first Fashion Week in 1984, and it presents itself to funders as a trade event attended by over 5,000 press and buyers, with an estimated £40m to £100m trading hands. Foremost among the many Fashion Week venues is Somerset House in central London, where a large marquee in the central courtyard hosts a series of catwalk shows by top designers and fashion houses. Many other venues are also used, so chances are your London Hotel will be close to some events. Spring 2010 also saw London hosting the first Fashion Week to be broadcast live on the Internet.
Milan
September 21-27
Established in 1958, Milan’s Fashion Week is put on by the non-profit Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (National Chamber for Italian Fashion), which promotes the development of Italian Fashion. Here you’ll find Gucci, Armani, D&G, Prada and many other top international designers offering a peek into the future. The major fashion shows for women include Milan SS Women Ready to Wear and Milano Moda Donna. Though you need an invitation to see the catwalk shows, the rest of the city is booming with fashion tourists and there are glamorous parties everywhere throughout the week. One great place to admire the theatrical shop windows, and watch fashionistas and beautiful locals posing as you enjoy cappuccino and biscotti is on the pedestrianised Via Della Spiga. Be sure to book your Milan hotel early, as they can fill up fast.
Paris
September 29-October 6
It’s no surprise that Paris, the fashion capital of the world hosts one of the four most important Fashion Weeks in the world. This is the granddaddy of fashion, the city to which everyone looks. Fashion has been a prime cultural export of France since the seventeenth century, and the city of Paris was the inventor of modern haute couture in the 1860s.The city is now headquarters to premier fashion houses Balenciaga, Céline, Chanel, Chloe, Dior, Givenchy, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Hermès, Lanvin,Rochas, Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent. And Paris’s Fashion Week never fails to impress. Even the venue, the Carrousel du Louvre is beautiful. The dates of Paris’s Fashion Week are always determined by the French Fashion Federation, and Paris is always sure to be the anchor of Fashion Month, always coming at the end. There are many excellent Paris hotels available as well.
Los Angeles
October 14-21
But wait! There’s more! Though not one of the Big Four, Los Angeles, home to the world’s largest film and television industry, is also a player in the fashion world, making its Fashion Week more than just an epilogue to Fashion Month. More low-key than its more famous namesakes, this Fall’s Fashion Week has been timed to coincide with LA Market Week, which takes place in apparel showrooms and trade shows at the intersection of 9th Street and Los Angeles Street in downtown LA’s Garment District. One of the more interesting venues is the Sunset Gower Studios, site of the very first movie studio in Hollywood. Some highlights: Simply Stylist, an event for celebrity and editorial stylists; Concept Fashion Week, a downtown indie production, The Green Initiative Humanitarian Fashion Show and The Nightclubbers, an independent fashion/music/art experience at the Avalon dance club. Again, no matter what part of town your hotel is located, you’re sure to be near a Fashion Week event.
Posted in Italy on 19. Jul, 2011
The Acropolis. The Parthenon. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Souvenir shopping in the Plaka. Time to check Athens off the list and catch that ferry to the islands. Wait. Hold on. You’ve barely scratched the surface. Athens is one of the most unappreciated capital cities in Europe that offers far more to do than people actually do. So extend your Athens plans for another couple of days and get ready to have some fun.
Lycabettus Theatre
If you’re wondering what that mountain is you’re looking up at from the Parthenon, that’s Mount Lycabettus. The highest point in the city, this 200 metre hill also provides the best views in the city. Especially if you’re motivated to skip the cable car and take the long climb up the side, you’ll be treated to a view of the Parthenon with the blue sea peeking at you between its columns. When you get to the top, pay particular attention to the trees. Once a bald mountain, Athens reforested Lycabettus between 1880 and 1915. But I’m supposed to be telling you about the Lycabettus Theater at the top, which hosts a variety of performances and rock concerts. There’s also a cafe-restaurant with a great view of Athens towards the sea. There are, however, no hotels up there, though the five-star The Hotel St. George Lycabettus is nestled at the foot of the hill, providing some pretty spectacular views itself.
National Art Gallery
Established in 1878 with a small collection of 117 works exhibited at the Athens University, the National Art Gallery now boasts a world-class collection of art with a wonderful collection of post-Byzantine Greek Art. Though this collection itself is impressive, the museum also boasts a wide selection of other artists from around Europe dating from the Renaissance. The work of El Greco, Greece’s favorite expatriate, is displayed side-by-side with Flemish Jan Brueghel the Elder and the Younger, Italian Lorenzo Veneziano and Dutch Jacob Jordaens. More modern works can be found by Mondrian, Rodin, Picasso, Matisse, Delacroix and Braque, and there’s also a great collection of contemporary Greek art, including Nikolaos Kounelakis, Nikiforos Litras, Konstantinos Parthenis and Giannis Moralis. If you want to spread out and contemplate all the great work you’ve just seen, the four-star Delice Hotel Apartments are right down the street.
The City of Athens Technopolis
If the National Gallery is a little bit traditional for you, then head to the City of Athens Technopolis, a modern museum with industrial origins that has been transformed into a multipurpose cultural space. Housed in the city’s form gasworks, which date from 1857, the museum first opened its doors in 1999 and now occupies an area of 30,000 square metres, boasting the most interesting exhibits spread out over many buildings. Eight of the buildings are named after Greek poets, and the on the second floor of the Angelos Sikelianos building is a museum for opera super-diva, Maria Callas Also an educational centre, the museum also hosts many events, from music to theatre to poetry readings to dance to seminars and even business and technology presentations. Not far from the Acropolis, the Technopolis is surrounded by hotels, such as the hip and trendy four-star Eridanus Art Luxury Hotel.
Kolonaki Shopping
If your question is, “What shopping is like beyond the Plaka?” the answer is “far less touristy.” Especially if you’re shopping in the Kolonaki. Here you’ll find art galleries, hip clothing boutiques and antique store, all in a very small area. You can start your Kolonaki excursion in the Plateia Kolonaki (Kolonaki Square), which is bordered by cafés full of Athenian movers and shakers. Mostly free from foreigners, the cafés are expensive and worth it and are quite lively at night. From there you can explore the petite shopping streets to the north, including Skoufa Street, Anagnostopoulo Street and the pedestrianized Tsakaloff Street. Then head to Patriarchou Ioakim and Haritos Streets, which offer even more shopping along their sidestreets. If you find you like the vibe, there are plenty of hotels in the district, including the four-star Periscope Hotel Athens.
Sea Turtle Rescue Society Archelon
If an overdose of commercialism has got you feeling like saving the world, you can help do that while experiencing nature just a 50 minute tram ride from the centre of Athens in the beachside community of Glyfada. That’s where you’ll find the Sea Turtle Rescue Society Archelon. The problem: Many sea turtles get stranded on the beach after getting caught in fishing gear or injured by speedboats and fishermen. The solution: In 1994 Archelon established a Sea Turtle Rescue Centre to treat and rehabilitate injured, sick or weak sea turtles, raise public awareness and to operate a Sea Turtle Rescue Network throughout Greece. Where you come in: They’re always in need of volunteers. While the work is physically demanding work and can last long hours, the rewards are definitely worth it. Here are some Glyfada hotels where you can clean up when you’re done.
