Amsterdam’s cityscape, with its narrow houses tilting at various angles like rows of dominoes frozen mid-fall, at times looks like a scene from a Dr. Suess story. These leaning buildings, far from being architectural mistakes, represent centuries of adaptation to the unique challenges posed by building a city on swampland.
The foundation of Amsterdam’s architectural character lies, quite literally, in its unusual geology. The city was built on a swampy delta, where the River Amstel …
Perched dramatically on a mountainside in Italy’s Liguria region, the medieval village of Triora, known as the “Salem of Italy,” has embraced a haunting history of dramatic, infamous witch trials. The town’s strategic position at 780 meters above sea level made it a crucial defensive outpost during medieval times. The village’s name derives from “Tria Ora,” meaning three mouths, referring to the three gates that once protected this fortress town. Its robust walls and commanding …
Tianzi Mountain and Yuanjiajie in Hunan Province, China, offer visitors a surreal landscape that served as inspiration for the floating mountains in James Cameron’s blockbuster movie “Avatar.” The enormous limestone pinnacles, draped in vegetation and often veiled in mist, create an otherworldly atmosphere. The unique landscape of towering sandstone pillars, some reaching heights of over 3,000 feet, offer views that indeed seem to belong to another planet entirely.
The area was once a vast sea. …
Approximately 180 miles east of Puerto Rico lies the island of Saint Martin. This small, 50-square-mile island is divided between two nations: the French Republic in the north and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the south. The French part, known as the Collectivity of Saint Martin, is an overseas collectivity of France, while the Dutch part, Sint Maarten, is one of the four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The division of …
Ireland has managed to keep intact a wealth of prehistoric Neolithic structures providing invaluable insights into early human history. These ancient constructions, megalithic tombs, stone circles, and early settlements, offer insight into the beliefs, social organization, and technological capabilities of the ancients. By studying the architecture, layouts, and artifacts found within these ruins, archaeologists and anthropologists have pieced together narratives about the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyles to settled agricultural communities. The sheer scale and …
The U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that can be a lifeline in case of emergencies or unexpected situations when traveling abroad. Overall, the STEP program provides the traveler with a direct connection to U.S. government support resources while abroad, helping them stay informed, prepared, and connected during unexpected situations. STEP allows you to access valuable resources and information provided by the local U.S. embassy or consulate before …
National journalist Charles Kuralt once said, ” Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel across the country from coast to coast without seeing anything. “
While US highways provide an undeniably efficient method of travel, it’s true that unless you journey off the beaten path, you may never see the amazing natural wonders found in the United States of America, Canada, South America, or even in your favorite destinations …
Embarking on an international driving adventure can seem like a thrilling chapter straight out of a globetrotter’s diary. The freedom to explore at your own pace, to discover hidden gems far from the tourist trails, is tantalizing. Yet, for many, the thought of driving abroad is met with anxiety. Language barriers, cryptic road signs, and arcane local customs can transform what should be an exhilarating experience into a daunting challenge.
The first mistake most newcomers …
In North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville stands out, known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and a culture that the residents proudly proclaim as weird. Artists, musicians, brewmasters nature enthusiasts and everyday folk make Asheville the unique destination it is.
Asheville’s population is diverse, with a community that embraces creativity, individuality, and a laid-back lifestyle. The city is known for its progressive mindset and liberal nature, attracting a wide array of individuals from artists …
Deep inside the jungles of Colombia, archeologists have discovered an extensive array of ancient rock paintings, hailed as the “Sistine Chapel of the Ancients.” These glyphs represent a significant milestone in the study of pre-Columbian history and offer a new window into the lives of people who lived during the Ice Age. This discovery, made in the Serranía de la Lindosa and nearby areas, including the Chiribiquete National Park, was led by a British-Colombian team …
For winter sports enthusiasts, as well as summer vacationers, St. Moritz is a world-class destination. Besides its beauty and recreational offerings, St. Moritz has crafted a unique personality that makes it a perfect location for those seeking outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and nature. St. Moritz and its jet-setting patronage has practically defined luxury winter sports and adventure for generations.
St. Moritz’s history as a playground for the rich and famous dates back to the mid-19th …
Everyone has a favorite spot for a sunset. Few rival those to be seen on the Cycladic island of Santorini. The island’s rocky cliffs, dotted with its famous white and blue homes and buildings provide a vista for a setting sun like no other. Rising out of the Aegean Sea, Santorini is really a jewel among the many wonderful Greek islands. Set in its volcanic rim, surrounded by the bluest of water, the island and …
Quebec City, the heart of French Canada, is a jewel of history, culture, and culinary delights. The city’s distinct European charm, blended with its rich heritage and vibrant culture, makes it a haven for travelers seeking a unique experience. Quebec City is located in the southeastern part of the Canadian province of Quebec, approximately 233 kilometers northeast of Montreal. It’s the capital city of the province and one of the oldest European settlements in North …
National journalist Charles Kuralt once said, ” Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel across the country from coast to coast without seeing anything. “
While US highways provide an undeniably efficient method of travel, it’s true that unless you journey off the beaten path, you may never see the amazing natural wonders found in the United States of America let alone in the Sahara or on the arctic …
Surely one of the darkest destinations in Japan is the Aokigahara Forest, also known as the “Sea of Trees” or “Suicide Forest.” Located at the northwest base of Mount Fuji, it is a dense, moss-covered forest that has gained notoriety as a place where many people go to take their own lives. The forest has a complex history and is shrouded in myth and legend, but its current reputation as a place of tragedy is …
Sushi is a popular Japanese dish, but if you’re visiting Japan, it’s important to know how to eat sushi the right way according to Japanese etiquette. There are many different types of sushi available in Japan, so understanding the differences between them can help you order what you like.
Sushi comes in several preparations: sashimi, nigiri, and maki among others. Nigiri is sushi consisting of a piece of fish or other seafood atop …
Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is known for its picturesque canals, world-famous museums, and vibrant nightlife. However, one of the most interesting and unique aspects of this city is its culture of biking. For locals and tourists alike, riding a bike is the best way to explore the city. With its expansive network of bike lanes and paths, Amsterdam offers an incredibly convenient and enjoyable way to get around. And it’s no surprise that cyclists make …
Clothing-optional vacations are like all other vacations, except many of your companions will not be wearing clothing. Stripped down to its essentials, clothing optional means just that: clothing may or may not be worn at an individual’s discretion. The related term “nudist” has a somewhat different meaning. At nudist resorts, the expectation is that everyone will be unclothed most of the time. The more commonly accepted term is “naturist”, which is the practice of being …
Australia shows up on more people’s bucket lists than most other destinations and for good reason. This continent-nation offers an amazingly wide mixture of landscapes, wildlife, and adventure, providing a veritable palate of opportunities for anyone wishing to enjoy an exhilarating travel experience in ever-changing locales: there is no single “Australian itinerary.” With that said, and knowing Australia has so much to offer, here are my five top reasons to visit Australia.
The variety of …
It’s just after midnight on June 21st, and I’m standing on the street outside the Reykjavik pub from which I have just emerged. The sky above is clear and bright. Perhaps not as bright as when I went into the pub three hours ago but, then again, neither am I.
In the last 24 hours, I rafted (and swam) a glacial river, photographed a massive waterfall from dozens of angles, explored a terrain pitted with …
Who has not been captivated by tales of knights and dragons, of medieval feuds, battles, and betrayals? Serving as the backdrop for each of these stories is a castle. Visiting a castle can provide a playground for the imagination, allowing the mind to revel in legend and lore. Walking through grand halls past suits of armor, torches, and tapestries, one cannot fathom so many stories embedded in stone. More than a getaway from the stresses …
Tracing your cultural heritage and family genealogy is a fascinating undertaking. Family origins have an interest that goes beyond mere intellectual curiosity. We feel bound by our connections to the past, by archetypal respect for all that has come before us. The mystery of your family’s origins is waiting to be uncovered, no matter what your race or country of origin. With a bit of planning and skillful research, it is possible to reveal the …
Have you watched a movie filmed in a familiar setting and recognized buildings, a restaurant or a street? Have you ever wanted to visit a location after seeing a film? Watch the “Borne Identity,” and you will see many Parisian locations. If you are ever in Prague, look for the many easily identifiable scenes from the first “Mission Impossible.” Just outside Asheville, North Carolina, in Lake Lure, you can see the spectacular backdrop for “Last …
Today’s bird-watching enthusiasts are not limited to their backyards or local parks to pursue their passion. Never have so many wonderful destinations been accessible for seeing rare and exotic species. Whether you are a novice birder looking for an introduction to the great sport of birding, or whether you are an expert bird watcher looking for new destinations or a particular species, there are tremendous opportunities in all corners of the world just for you.…
