It’s difficult to imagine Abu Dhabi before oil was discovered in the 1960s. Once a small community known for fishing and pearl diving, Abu Dhabi now sprouts from the deserts and stretches to the sky with heights previously unrecorded by humans. The extreme wealth of this city has also brought luxury beyond the standard. Let’s dive into Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and UNESCO City of Music.
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Ushuaia, known as the city at the end of the world, is situated at the southern-most tip of Argentina and is famous for being the gateway to Antarctica. Most people make tracks to the far-flung city to join one of the cruises which sail across Drake Passage and explore the vast frozen continent. Even if you aren’t lucky enough to be taking a cruise, Ushuaia is worthy of a visit – as I recently discovered …
To most, the name “Philadelphia” is synonymous with Rocky Balboa, the Liberty Bell, and soft pretzels. But the cradle of American democracy boasts more than its well-known slew of historic landmarks and pop culture references – it is also home to a large number of world class art museums, complete with its very own Avenue des Champs-Élysées leading from City Hall to what is, arguably, the crown jewel in the city’s collection: The Philadelphia Museum …
One of the nicest things about the world’s greatest art galleries is that they tend to be in the world’s greatest cities – which is incredibly convenient. Once you’ve walked through kilometres of galleries and squinted at countless treasures until your arty-farty quotient is exhausted, you can soak up the vibe of the city around you. Theatres, restaurants, pubs, clubs, parks and shops galore will inject new life into tired eyes and feet, so you’re …
Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence, Italy has long been known as the official church of the powerful Medici family. A discovery in 1975, however, shed new light on the church’s history and its connection to one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance, Michelangelo Buonarroti. A small, unassuming room tucked away in the basilica, is now thought to have been Michelangelo’s secret hideaway during his tumultuous relationship with the Medici family.
A team of …
In the heart of Ethiopia’s mountainous region of Amhara stand eleven Coptic Christian churches carved out of solid rock 800 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage site attracts pilgrims and visitors from around the world, eager to witness this amazing architectural achievement built by the ancient Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Lalibela is located 370 miles north of Addis Ababa in the Amhara Region, at an altitude of 8,200 feet.
The history of Lalibela dates back to …
The Dutch say ‘April doet wat hij wil’ (‘April does what it wants’) to describe the weather in the Netherlands during the early spring. It’s true, the weather in April can be unpredictable, but for flower enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone with an appreciation for nature, Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands is a destination that encourages you to brave the weather, if not ignore it. This horticultural wonder virtually explodes with color during tulip season, a …
Just a stone’s throw north of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast is Tarpon Springs—an enclave that, with a hint of imagination, mirrors the charm of distant Mykonos. The town’s fortunes started in 1887 with the arrival of railroad service north all the way to New York, but sprang to life at the dawn of the 20th century by the discovery of rich sponge beds just offshore. The arrival of Greek sponge divers in 1905 from …
With the exception of Native Americans, every citizen has roots tracing back to an immigrant ancestor. This gathering of diverse backgrounds is not just a characteristic of the American identity; it is the foundation of the nation’s unparalleled success. The Tenement Museum in New York City attests to our immigrant legacy, exploring the immigrant experience and its central role in shaping our country.
Immigration is the narrative of the United States, often referred to as …
Belgium, though modest in size, stands tall on the European map, boasting an convergence of cultures. This nation, situated among some of Europe’s most influential countries, offers a unique blend of landscapes, architectures, and culinary influence.
Belgium sits in Western Europe, sharing borders with the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France. The country’s landscape is diverse, featuring the sandy beaches of the northwest, the agricultural central plateau, and the forests of the Ardennes. The Meuse and …
Not only is Edinburgh a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s also Scotland’s capital city and home to phenomenal festivals, which have the city buzzing with a sense of excitement all year round.
Packed with medieval tenements, narrow streets through the Old Town, and a sweeping elegance that swathes the Georgian New Town, there’s no question that Edinburgh deserves its reputation as one of the most stunning and enthralling cities in the world.
Sightseeing in Edinburgh …
When on holiday how many of us seek out the parks which are free to enter and offer a peak into the country’s flora and fauna? The expansive green areas in busy city centers host entertainment events year-round and a slice of natural beauty from the well-manicured lawns, blooming flower beds, artistic statues, and flowing fountains.
Central Park, New York
It comes as no surprise that the most famous park in the world is Central …
Situated in the desolate beauty of Chile’s Atacama Desert, a colossal hand emerges from the sandy surface. This iconic, larger-than-life sculpture known as “La Mano del Desierto” or “The Hand of the Desert” has been an intriguing spectacle for many who traverse Chile’s Route 5. The Hand of the Desert is an imposing, 11-meter (36 feet) tall sculpture that depicts a right human hand, rising eerily from the desert sands, palm facing up towards the …
It’s easy to be seduced by Oaxaca City’s abundant charms. From mouth-watering local cuisine to the streets awash with colorful colonial buildings and cacti, there’s a unique laidback vibe here, rarely found in large cities. Rich in indigenous culture, the area is famous for its folk art, particularly the vibrant hand-carved fantasy figures known as alebrijes which are produced in the surrounding villages and sold in the city. As well as the impressive Museo de …
