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May 8 2021

Prague, Czech Republic

by MDee

 

                                                   The Prague Castle-St Vitus

Prague

My visit to Prague, the Capital of Czech Republic. (Formerly known as Czechoslovakia.) A country in central  Europe. Czechoslovakia was formed in 1908 from several provinces of BOHEMIA, MORAVIA and SLOVAKIA, due to the collapse of  AUSTRIA- HUNGARY  Empire in World War 1.The collapse of the Empire brought Czech and Slovaks together for the first time as Czechoslovakian, up to- until the last modification of the modern Czech Republic in January 1,1993- that separated the country into 2. Which is now CZECH Republic and SLOVAKIA.

Prague is separated by Vitava River and is known for it’s old Town Square. The heart of the historic core with colorful Baroque Buildings, Gothic Churches and the Medieval Astronomical Clock, which gives an animated hourly show and attached to the Old Town Hall. This clock was first installed in 1410, making it the third oldest in the world and the oldest clock – still operating. Located at the southern side of the old town hall tower. When the clock strikes the hour from 09:00am to 11:00 pm the 12 Apostles sets in motion. The astronomical clock, Horologium or Orloj– is a clock of special mechanisms and dials to display Astronomical information such as the relative position of the SUN , MOON,  Zodiac Constellations and sometimes Major planets.

The Old Town Square is incredibly beautiful, it is like an open book on Architecture. Please your senses with the Gothic Town Hall, with the Baroque St Nicholas Church or with the Rococo Golz-Kinsky Palace, the Pedestrian Charles Bridge is lined with statues of Catholic Saints. As you walk around you will wonder how the old masters built this amazing iconic city and will make you proud that you have been there. Even early morning people are lining up to see the old town square show.

What excite me more about Prague is the St Vitus Cathedral,  I only read it in The Book of Life. It is not only the biggest Castle in Prague- dating back to the 14th century, also a great example of gothic architecture designed by Petr Parler ( who is the mastermind behind the iconic Pedestrian Charles Bridge.) St Vitus Cathedral is also the most important landmark in the Czech Republic, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cathedral took almost 600 years to complete and is packed with Tourist attending the daily service and mostly are just to admire the amazing stained windows and architecture. Over the years the castle and grounds have undergone several changes and expansions.

As I was a student of private catholic school, Prague is a familiar word close to my heart. “The Infant Jesus of Prague” located in the Discalced Carmelite Church of our Lady of Victorious. This was another known place that interest me to have a chance to visit Prague. My whole heart wanted to see the Shrine. Had tried to find a way, but due to a limited time on a day trip- not enough to get there. It was heart breaking however if I ever get another chance to visit Europe, this will be one in my list. There are so much more to see and explore in this country…. Also I had never known that the Kings and Queens that lives in the worlds Palaces were mostly are related until joining this guided tour. – So fantastically amazing.!!!!!

I am proud of having been there. Make a Plan on your next Travel Destination.!

 

Photo: praquets.com                                            AIRBNB: cheaper accommodation

 

 

 

 

Categories: Hotel Accommodations, Plan a Trip, Plan a Vacation, River Cruising, Sight Seeing Tour, Travel Destinations | No Comments »

Apr 16 2021

Luxembourg City

by MDee

                                                           City of Luxembourg

Luxembourg City

A visit to Luxembourg City- Capital of Luxembourg, Is a tiny nation -nestled in the border of France, Germany and Belgium. One of the riches in the world, second to Qatar. Mostly known for its tax breaks for big companies and recognized as the banking center of Europe. Luxembourg is 998 square miles and presently has 562,958 inhabitants. Half of the population are foreigners.

The city has 3 languages- German, French and Luxembourgish,(which has much same syntax as German) and cuisine is heavily influenced by both German and French. Nearly half of the country  workforce are cross-border workers from Belgium, France and Germany. Cost of living is so high in Luxembourg City.. Way higher than New York, USA and Toronto, Canada.

Award winning wine Crémant de Luxembourg – high quality sparkling wine, won 22 awards produced in Moselle in a traditional way similar to champagne.

The Bock Casemates– is the 18th century Tunnel and WW2 shelter, A stone bridge and ancient tunnel under the city, is a 17km-long underground tunnel network beneath the Capital City. At some point this tunnel penetrates up to 40 meters inside the rock face. The tunnel and fortresses were originally built in 1644 and earned Luxembourg the tittle of “GIBRALTAR of the North” The Bock Casemates are now called THE UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remain open to public for guided tours from March to September.

The city also offers 2 hours walking tours to Vianden Castle. Located in Vianden- Is one of the largest fortified Castle west of the Rhine. An outstanding historical monument, was built between 11th to 14th century. For long, this Castle belonged to the Grand Ducal Family before passing it to state ownership in 1977. There is so much history in this castle if you are willing to spend for the fee – for me it cost almost my return ticket. There are so much more to see and learned about Luxembourg if your time and wallet permits. Most residents go cross border shopping to the nearby country of Belgium, Germany and France on big ticket items.

There are affordable accommodations if you chose to stay at Luxembourg Old Town Area: Hostel for Backpackers, Budget Hotels, Midrange Hotels and affordable Luxury Hotels.

If you are traveling with a family and arriving via train? The Gare District is another option in finding accommodations in Luxembourg . There are hotels, as well as shopping in the historic Old Town District in just 20 minutes from Gare District. Has many residences and 19th century homes currently housing Embassies. They have grocery stores as well to chose from in meeting your accommodation. needs.

City Nightlife :: There are so many best places to explore depending on your taste and have a good time!!!!!!!.

Plan your Trip to Luxembourg !!!

 

AIRBNB – for cheaper accommodation                                           Photo by: Wikipedia

 

 

 

Categories: Hotel Accommodations, Plan a Trip, Plan a Vacation, River Cruising, Sight Seeing Tour, Travel Destinations | No Comments »

Mar 26 2021

Bruges, Belgium

by MDee
    
                                                                        Lake of   Love

Bruges, Belgium

A day trip to Belgium from Amsterdam was so convenient. Just a border away!. While in the Bus, I sat back in comfort while admiring the beautiful scenery as we pass along the Dutch and the Belgian countryside, the fascinating views of landscapes, beautiful buildings and other tour buses traveling along the highway.

First stop – Bruges, one of the incredible beautiful area known as “ Minnewater.” Where, the Lake of Love and Lovers Bridge are tucked away at the southern end of the North sea. It is a great place to be with someone you love. They say, it is a place where- “If you walk over the bridge and kiss someone you love it will become eternal love” A tranquil location with in the confines of the city.

A legend- tells the story of a young and pretty girl named Minna who was in love with the Stromberg- a warrior of a neighboring tribe. Her father did not agree with her love and arranged her to marry a man of his choice. A fisherman named Horneck. Minna’s father was a Sailor and is getting old and choses Horneck for her as a husband.  Minna escaped and ran into the forest. When Stromberg finally found her, she died in his arms of exhaustion. The lake was named after Minna and the bridge by the lake was considered The Bridge of Love– in her honor.  The park is home of numerous festivals throughout the year and the SWAN is the Minnewater emblem.

Bruges – is  the capital of West Flanders in Northwest Belgium . Explore to discover the old city, including the tall watchtower known as “The Gun Powder Tower.” The church of our Lady of Madonna and Child with its 122-meter brick, dominates the skyline of the city. Although there are many adaptations of Madonna and Child wither it is a Painting or  a Sculpture, it represents the very core of Christianity.

There’s so much more to see in Bruges if time permits. Bruges are famous for its Lace making -also it  is distinguished by its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. Port Zeebrugge  is an important center for fishing and European trade.

Brussels- Sightseeing around the Capitol, The Grand Palace, Famous Landmarks, Century Old Buildings, International Banks ,Town Hall (Hotel de Ville) and of course Belgian Chocolates Factory for some treats which are several. The Little Pissing Man (a landmark) Bronze Fountain Sculpture in Central Brussel. Depicting a naked boy urinating into the fountain basin. Then The Royal Palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians in the center of the Nation Capital. It was a Wonderful day !

 Plan your Travel Destination soon.!!!

photo: Wikipedia                               AIBNB- for cheaper accommodations

Categories: Plan a Trip, Plan a Vacation, Sight Seeing Tour, Travel Destinations | No Comments »

Jan 11 2021

Barcelona, Spain

by MDee

La Barceloneta Beach

Have visited Barcelona many years ago, So excited to explore the city. Spain has a history ties to my country. Barcelona is known for its exceptional soccer and the brilliant architectures. It is also famous for its modern art museums, parks, golden shoreline, beautiful beaches and tasty foods. Barcelona is the capital of Catalunya- a historical region of Spain and densely populated second after Madrid.

We watched the live Flamenco Dance show.  They say, beginning of the 20th century during the arrival of many Andalusians, live flamenco shows blossomed all across Barcelona. Dancers clicking there castanets with different fingers produces the rhythmic sound. Barcelona is considered the third capital of flamenco show in Spain. While you are in Barcelona, have a dip at La Barceloneta the golden sand beach also the closes to the city.

We traveled to  Mount Montserrat .It is a multi-peaked mountain range near Barcelona in Catalonia. It is part of the Catalan Pre-Coastal Range.
A spectacularly beautiful Benedictine monk mountain retreat, about one hour North West from Barcelona by train. Not only is Montserrat Monastery
of significant religious importance but also the natural beauty surrounding the monastery is simply breathtaking. If you enjoy walking there are some interesting walks through the mountains where you will experience magnificent views of some of the most unusual rock formations in the whole of Catalonia. You can take a funicular or a cable railroad to the top of the mountain and from there, you can take in the amazing views of the Catalonian countryside. The history of Mount Montserrat is fascinating and started in 880 when a small group of shepherd children saw a bright light from the sky over Montserrat mountains. In the same moment the children heard angels singing and the music filled their hearts with a radiant joy.
Today,  You can walk to the Holy Grotto and see first hand where these events took place.

Have you watched a bull fight on television or live? These days, Bullfighting is illegal in most countries but remains legal in most areas of Spain and Portugal as well as in some Hispanic American countries and some parts of southern France.

Madrid the Capital of Spain is one of Europe’s most amazing cities, exciting and dynamic metropolis with plenty of things to do and lots of places to enjoy. Most of the time visitors usually have a limited amount of time when visiting a city. Sometimes it is difficult to choose from range of things  Madrid has to offer and Madrid is famous for. Also Madrid’s Puerta del Sol is probably the city’s most famous spot. It is known for being the place where people gather on December 31 to celebrate the New Year.. The square is also the point where all of Spain’s six major roads starts. While most tourists have no idea that the Puerta del Sol is Spain’s symbolic “Kilometer 0.” In the middle of the square, a small plaque shows the exact point where Spanish roads begins – don’t miss it!.
Night life- Spain is famous over the world for its nightlife and party culture. With trendy bars, nightclubs and so much more. Madrid is the place to be  for the ultimate night in the town. Nightlife in Madrid can be one of the most memorable parts of your trip.

Plan a Vacation!

AIRBNB- for cheaper accommodation     photo: alamy.com

 

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