Going the Distance: The Wonders of Greece

As the cradle of Western Civilization, Greece should be on the top of every ‘countries-to-go-to’ list of any traveler, tourist, or simply anyone wanting to experience the life and ways of a country rich in history, culture, and cuisine. Its incredible ancient history which, in essence, is the birthplace of the democracy most countries enjoy today, delivers more and goes above and beyond in the multitude of experiences it can give for people seeking to have an adventure, a learning experience, or both.

Here are the top five places you should see in the wonderful land of Greece: 

Athens

In the simplest sense, the history that Athens holds is beyond comprehension, both in the figurative sense and the literal sense, with the latter being due to how vast it really is. This city’s influence and culture stretches beyond its border as this is where the idea and the flourishing of democracy began. Moreover, Athens is also credited as the founder of Western Civilization, truly proving that the country extends within the bounds of and withstands the test of time. 

It’s debatable but the city of Athens is deemed as the best city to visit in the land of the Greek. Given that Athens is overflowing with the culture of Greece along with its historical, arhitectural, and cultural marvels such as the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus, the city should definitely be the first destination you head to or perhaps the final spot you’ll head to, if you like to save the best for last.

And of course, when you head to Athens, don’t forget to explore the areas of the Plaka district, a suburb of Athens, located just below the Acropolis. Let this place be the center of most of your collated experiences, pictures, and memories as you watch, shop, and eat, as you stroll among the cobble-paved streets and see all the shops and restaurants with all their specialties for your taking, may it be by purchasing, eating, or by taking photographs. 

Santorini 

With its turquoise waters and spectacular views, the island of Santorini proves its ‘world-renowned’ status as you walk the diamond of the Aegean, slowly being drawn in further and further into the beauty of the island, from nature to architecture. 

As the most scenic of all the islands of Greece, the picturesque Santorini is the type of destination you should ‘see to believe,’ as any verba, textual, or photographic proof will not suffice to augment the awe that has been cemented to the hearts of those that have visited this island. From dipping in its gorgeous waters to walking around the beautiful villages, Santorini is sure to become a memory, more than just a place you’ve been to once you get there. You’d want to relive every single moment of dining in the restaurants, exploring the volcanic beaches, and taking sight of the whitewashed houses of Santorini.

Knossos

As a relic of the bronze age of humanity’s long history, Knossos, only being a short drive or bus ride from the Cretan capital Heraklion, is home to the Minoan ruins of the mighty Minoan civilization which had full control and dominance of the region over 5,000 years ago. These ruins are one of the best, if not the best, preserved relics of the bronze age in the entirety of Greece and are definitely an incredible sight tourists should see. 

Apart from the ruins, the charming mosaics and masterful pottery adorn Knossos, along with the hall of kings which is the location of the legend between the Minotaur and the Labyrinth. The ruins of Knossos may be visited by going to the island of Crete, which is also home to numerous sights and destinations. 

Meteora

This place could be seen as one of the most unique places in Greece, along with the entirety of Europe. 

Meteora, situated north of Greece, is the home of the world’s most scenic and alluring Orthodox churches. These monasteries, the Meteora Monasteries, have been designated as one of the few UNESCO world heritage sites, but UNESCO gave Meteora a double status, providing two different world heritage status to this place: one for art and one for nature. 

With the Orthodox monasteries built in the 14th and 16th centuries, the monastery sits atop, at high altitude, reaching for the skies, the heavens, as this land is home to the people who live in the sky that remains to worship God with full and unshaken passion throughout the passage of time. 

Olympia 

Another place in Greece that has etched its mark on the history of the Greek and all of Western Civilization is Olympia, the birthplace and origin of the Olympic Games that have thundered its influence, power, and ways throughout Greek culture, heritage, and history.

With the place situated in the hallowed Valley of the Gods, taking sight of the ancient stadium and training grounds of the Olympians is still quite possible, making it a scenic place to both learn history and take photographs for both aesthetic and educational purposes. If it weren’t for Olympia and the period where it peaked with its influence and roared with cheers and cries, Greece would have lost quite a huge chunk of its rich history. And during its peak, it was the place to be, not Athens, as everything happened here. 

At present time, UNESCO has accredited Olympia for its well-preserved monuments and temples, along with the stadium and training grounds. The hallowed-out monuments are dedications meant for the great gods like Zeus and Hera. All of this sits in the hills of the Peloponnese, making the Valley of the Gods an even more awe-inspiring destination for travelers. 

Apart from just Olympia, the valley also promises hikers and bikers an incredible mountain experience as its landscape is also run through by the Alfos River Valley, making the entire location a sight to behold, enjoy, and, of course, take pictures of. All of this, from the history, the heritage, to the nature, makes Olympia a great destination for tourists heading to Greece. 

Hunting For Santa: Christmas Villages Around the World

The magical season of Christmas is now here greeting us with Christmas carols, gift-giving, and the desire to have an adventure of a lifetime. And what better places to go than the Christmas villages all over the globe that truly put the “merry” to the Merry Christmas. Live your childhood dream and go hunt for Santa in these real-life Christmas Villages around the world that are sure to make you believe, once again, in the magic that Christmas brings. 

Woodstock, Vermont 

photo from: https://www.woodstockinn.com/

As one of the most picturesque towns in the United States of America, Woodstock in Vermont is crowned as one of the best Christmas villages to celebrate Christmas in. With the scent of pine needles drifting in the air along the light touch of snow on the skin as it falls down on this humble and beautiful town, the historic town of Woodstock promises a multitude of experiences for those looking to have a merry celebration of the Christmas season.

Rooted on their Norse culture traditions dating back to the 19th-century, Woodstock’s Wassail Weekend is a pre-event Christmas festival that includes a parade, wagon and sleigh rides, and a Christmas celebration at the Billings Farm & Museum. The parade features horses and riders that count up to 50 who present themselves in holiday clothing and period dresses, while the visitors get to enjoy the festivities of the wassail feast along with the local shops and intricate holiday window displays that stay up late throughout the period of the festival. 

North Pole, Alaska 

photo from: https://www.santaclaushouse.com/visit.asp

If you’re looking for the enigmatic and magical Santa Claus, then the North Pole in Alaska is the prime destination you should be heading to. With over 2,200 residents celebrating Christmas all year-round with their holiday decorations that never leave their homes for the entirety of the year, the North Pole offers a lot of sights to go looking for Santa or to simply just have fun. 

Have a drive in the Alaskan town’s iconic streets such as the Mistletoe Lane, Santa Claus Lane, and Kris Kringle Drive, then stay the night and explore the area at Santaland RV Park. And in December, the place becomes even more enliven through the annual North Pole Christmas In Ice Contest that attracts ice sculptors all over the globe that are looking to top each other’s artistry in a showdown of cold ice. 

With national newscasts broadcasting live from the house of Santa Claus, the serene and joyful town of North Pole, Alaska also gives tourists the opportunity to mail their postcards from Santa’s official zip code, ensuring that your friends and family receive your postcard in a mail coming from the world-renowned North Pole. 

Nuremberg, Germany

photo fromm: https://happytowander.com/nuremberg-christmas-market-guide/

The Christmas celebration of Nuremberg attracts over 2 million tourists every year with the festive atmosphere it promises, along with the 200 vendors lining the place with beautiful Christmas decor in a display of color and lights. In the quaint town of Nuremberg, Germany, the marketed and sold handmade toys and holiday goods are ensured to come from traditional crafting, without any hint of mass-produced materials and plastic, as the market council of Nuremberg maintains this policy every single year. 

Walking along Nuremberg would have you tempted by the fragrant aromas of mulled wine, that come with gingerbreads, sweet roasted almonds, and sausages wafting through the Christmas air. And to top it all off, the Christmas glory of this town has the Toy Museum for kids and the kids-at-heard looking to ride a two-tiered carousel inspired by the classic reindeers and Father Christmas sleighs that visitors can ride and enjoy with their family and friends.

Reykjavik, Iceland

photo from: https://guidetoiceland.is/connect-with-locals/nanna/the-best-reykjavik-christmas-markets

The chilly air of the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, gets visitors attracted to the spectacle of its Yule Town Christmas and the dive into the holiday traditions unique to the land of Iceland, such as the 13 “Yuletide Lads” or scruffy Santas that delivers gifts to children who’ve been doing good for the last 13 nights before Christmas day. 

And of course, no one should be left not experiencing the market of this Yule Town Christmas that’s filled to the brim with rows upon rows of picturesques stalls and huts where tourists and locals can find gifts they can give to their loved ones, along with holiday decorations and treats they can purchase to make the Christmas season even more festive. 

It would be a mistake to leave right away once you’ve stayed one day in Reykjavik as craft-makers and artists only put up their stalls for one day, switching with new ones each day, making sure that there’s always something new for visitors to see, buy, and enjoy. Then there’s the world famous Northern Lights that color the Christmas night sky as the ground below glitters, shines, and flashes similarly with Christmas lights covered by thick layers of snow. 

Grindelwald, Switzerland 

photo from: https://schmidtchristmasmarket.com/blogs/news/travel-enjoy-a-white-christmas-in-grindelwald-switzerland

And lastly, Grindelwald in Switzerland, which is located at the foot of the Swiss Alps and its two peaks, is a village that’s used as the setting for multiple films already, including “The Golden Compass.” In this winter resort, the village stands out from the many other Christmas villages as Grindelwald charms tourists with its holiday atmosphere that makes one believe in the magic of Christmas and even in Santa Claus. 

The beautiful and shining Christmas decorations that enliven the streets and towering Christmas trees of Grindelwald offer a warm Christmas filled with mulled wide and a ton of goods any tourist can enjoy at the market stands of Grindelwald, Switzerland. 

This village in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps is also a gateway to the Jungfrau region that offers skiing in the winter, while there’s hiking in the summer. The place is also a famous mountain-climbing area that rises up to the well-known north face of the Eiger Mountain. In all its stunning scenery surrounded by mountains, a variety of outdoor activities tourists can enjoy, and of course, shopping for those looking to purchase presents for families and friends, Grindelwald is one of the best places to celebrate Christmas and enjoy the peak of the season. 

 

5 Simple Backpacking Tips You Need to Know

Throughout the years, backpacking has been continuously making the rounds for all travelers looking to experience the world by bringing only a few things in their backpack. In its simplest form, backpacking is traveling with just a backpack, nothing more, nothing less. But this type of traveling offers all sorts of difficulties along the way with all the what if’s becoming what is, making preparation the one aspect of backpacking everyone should first undergo before proceeding with their journeys, with their low-cost and light adventure. 

With all that in mind, here are 5 simple backpacking tips you need to know before you head out into the world to experience it like never before: 

Train, Train, Train… and Train! 

If you’re going to be hiking for a longer backpacking trip, then you might as well start now by going for the small tours. As you’d be exhausting yourself as you hike the mountains, valleys, and rivers you’d be treading on, preparing not only your physical state of being, but also your mentality to keep up with the hike would ensure that no unwanted accidents or problems occur as you enjoy the scenery and take in the fresh air of nature. 

Of course, if you can’t go hiking right away to train your body, then going to your local gym and doing endurance training would help your body get used to the stress of walking, climbing, and getting around swiftly, effectively, and safely. 

Find the Right Backpack, Find the Right Gear 

Imagine you’re hiking up a mountain and suddenly your backpack slips off your back. Now, clearly no one wants that to happen. That’s why finding the right backpack for you is a must. In fact, it’s already in the name “backpacking,” so having a proper backpack for your adventure should be a priority before you actually get on with your trip to the mountains. To find the right backpack, it’s best to go in person to try them out and have a feel of it on your back. 

Apart from the obvious backpack, another set of items you’d have to prepare would be your gear. Considering you’re out in the wilderness, having the right tools at your disposal would help a ton in making sure you don’t end up having to buy items elsewhere or unnecessarily borrow items from the people you’re with as you go backpacking. Having a tent, if you’re going to sleep outdoors, is a must, along with a sleeping bag, since sleeping in the bare environment is a surefire way to get into trouble. 

Supply Yourself with Sufficient Meals 

Naturally, you’re going to eat. You’d be exhausted as you go up and hike, then you’ll find yourself craving something, with your appetite making your stomach growl for sustenance after the grueling but satisfying experience of exploring the wilderness. 

Food is definitely going to be part of your list of things to bring, and it may just be the most you’d bring outside. But climbing and walking around with heavy luggage is something no one wants, so bringing food that can be rehydrated or food with a lot of energy and calories, like oatmeal bars, should go straight into your backpack. Moreover, having other food you can cook in an instant or perhaps even consume right away is a great pick for your food supplies to keep you going with your hike. 

Don’t Go Alone, Have Someone with You

Backpacking, in its simplest terms, can be dangerous, even more if you’re heading into the great unknown alone. It’s tempting to have a solo journey in the wilderness, but having someone with you would definitely be a hundred times better considering you’d have someone you can rely on if things get tough or if an accident occurs. 

Apart from that, having someone you can talk with and enjoy what nature has to offer will definitely be better than just taking pictures by yourself. They can even take better photographs for you compared to a selfie you would have probably taken if you were alone. Having someone with you as your backup, your safety net, and your friend is going to make the entire backpacking journey more enjoyable and, of course, safe. 

Leave No Trace, Leave Nature as it Is

As much as people want to make their mark in the world, one should never forget to leave no trace of their stay, of their travels, in the places they go, may it be in nature or in a community. This effort is all to maintain the beauty and state of the destination, leaving it untouched by external forces and influences that, if evident, would cause drastic changes to the environment of the destination, maybe even disrupt entire ecosystems and the peace of these places. 

Here are some ways you can leave no trace as you have your backpacking travels:

1. If you have to go to the bathroom, make sure you’re away from any immediate water source.

2. In the case you’re using toilet paper, don’t just throw them anywhere. Pack them in your backpack inside a ziplock bag you can place into another bag for privacy. 

3. Don’t wash anything directly in a river and don’t bring soap as well. The chemicals mixed in with soap may disrupt the natural reserves of the place, risking disturbance to the peace and order of the environment. Instead, collect water and wash elsewhere, away from the water source.

4. Don’t directly bathe in a river as it may be the primary drinking water or water for other purposes of the locals downstream.

5. Don’t bring home or displace anything in the wilderness. Leave them as they are. Ensure that you’re not going to make your mark in the place, especially if it comes in the form of trash. 

To allow future generations to enjoy the same scenery and landscapes you’re having your backpacking journey at, join in the effort to preserve these natural sights. By simply leaving things be the way they were when you arrived, you already take the necessary steps towards environmental preservation and care. This way, you can come back to places you’ve been and see and enjoy them the way they used to be when you first got there. 

Get to Know Romania's Beauty: Top 5 Destinations

With the final month of the year now here, travelers across the globe are now searching for that perfect vacation spot to spend their holidays, perhaps with their partner, their family, or maybe even just on their own. On the southeastern part of the incredible land of Europe stands the country in the Balkans, Romania. From its capital Bucharest to the beautiful forestry of the greener region of the country, Transylvania, this country has destinations anyone should have on their bucket list. 

With all of that, here are the top 5 destinations you need to see once you have landed on the country of Romania: 

The Capital of Romania, Bucharest

Nothing beats the capital of a country and Bucharest, the capital of the quaint Romania, is proof of this fact. As the largest city of the country that’s also situated along the Dâmbovița River, the city offers tourists many sceneries and experiences to dream of doing. Studies even show that by 2050 Bucharest is set to become Europe’s richest city.  

When you’ve arrived at this city, exploring the old town should definitely come first on your list to full immerse yourself in their culture and heritage, which you can further do by proceeding to their National Museum of Romanian History and the Romanian Athenaeum, which is widely known as the most prestigious concert hall in all of Bucharest. 

Afterwards, tourists can head to the Arc de Triomphe, followed by the beautiful gardens and picturesque streets with restaurants waiting for you to dine in. Moreover, the Palace of Parliament can also be located within the center of the city, which is now the world’s largest Parliament building consisting of over 1,000 rooms and even has tour guides that can guide you in exploring its entirety. 

Dracula’s Home, Bran Castle 

If you know who Dracula is, then this should be the next destination you head to. With Bram Stoker’s “Count Dracula” painting the scenes of his book so incredibly well, you would expect that Bram had actually lived there or even just visited it even once. However, it’s a fact that the author has never actually stepped foot on Bran Castle. 

This castle is a landmark and national monument in Transylvania, a region in Romania. The surrounding villages of this monument believe that ‘strigoi’ or evil spirits loomed around here up until half a century ago. These strigoi are understood as an entity that leads a normal, mundane life during daylight and come nighttime, their souls would escape their bodies and wander around to hunt prey. 

In present time, the castle serves as a museum dedicated to displaying Queen Maria’s collection of furniture and art pieces. She was the previous royal resident of Bran Castle. 

By the Foot of Mountains, Peles Castle 

Standing tall amidst the surrounding mountains of the Bucegi Mountains, the charming castle, Peles Castle, is located in the town of Sinaia. Featuring Neo-Renaissance architecture, the evident artistry of this castle showcases the intricacies of European architecture at its finest, making it one of the most incredibly beautiful castles in all of Europe. 

This castle was commissioned by King Carol I in 1873, which shifted into becoming a royal residence for the royal family in 1947. The former king did not leave a dime unspent with this castle and made it the first castle in Europe to have electricity, even having its own power plant. 

Inside the castle, tourists can find 160 rooms filled with European art, crystal chandeliers, and the iconic stained glass windows of the Germans. During the communist period of Romania, the Peles Castle became the property of the nation and most of the items there were moved to the National Arts Museum at the nation’s capital, Bucharest. 

Vlad the Impaler's Poenari Citadel 

As an important prince of Wallachia, Vlad the Impaler is recognized as a national hero in the country of Romania. But the prince is also known for his cruelty in dealing with his enemies, never leaving an ounce of wickedness unchecked. This castle, Poenari Citadel, used to be his residence. 

Located high on the cliff edge near the Făgăraş Mountains, the Poenari Citadel was one of the most impenetrable fortresses the country of Romania has ever had. However, in 1888, a landslide went through a part of the citadel, taking down a significant part of its architecture. 

But don’t fret about the safety of this castle as, presently, the Poenari Citadel is maintained with proper measures, still marking it as one of the best places to visit in the country of Romania. Though to get here, tourists would have to climb up a total of 1,480 steps, which actually doesn’t become much of a big deal once you’re there since the sights you’d see before getting there would make it all worth the effort. 

Save Bears at the Liberty Bear Sanctuary 

Animal lovers should never forget to head to this sanctuary that does a significant amount of action towards the preservation of the bear population in Romania. 

The Liberty Bear Sanctuary began with a woman named Christina Lapis who wanted to save the bears of Romania. Back in the 1990s, these bears were caged in small and tight cages outside restaurants for the sake of simply attracting customers. And this practice of using them for promotional purposes was prevalent during that time. 

At present time, the Liberty Bear Sanctuary is now home to over 100 bears roaming around over 69 hectares of land and wildlife. These bears were saved from all over the country from homes, places, and establishments that had them as pets or attractions. But a bear named Betsy actually came from the United States after being saved from a life as a circus bear. 

These bears were captured as cubs in the wild from their families and have since lived their life enclosed in cages for human pleasure and attraction. The Liberty Bear Sanctuary works against this cruelty and has now given bears trees to climb on, pools to swim in, and wide landscapes to explore in. 

Best Holiday Destinations in Italy

With the holidays now fast approaching, looking for that getaway to somewhere both quaint and lively is a must for travelers wanting to make the most out of their vacations. Good thing we have Italy, a country in Europe, that’s known for its history, culture, and cuisine, with its world-renowned holiday destinations. Here are some of the best holiday destinations in the beautiful country of Italy!

Rome

Naturally, starting at the capital of Italy, Rome presents its vibrant and great history and culture through the architectural marvels that adorn it. From the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Appian Way, the Forum, and even the Palatine Hill, Roma is home to various destinations waiting for tourists to take sight of and make new experiences and memories in. 

Beyond this, however, enjoying the actual city, the streets, the establishments, and the company of the people is something to have on your list of things to do in Rome. From eating gelato to tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain to wishing for more visits, more experiences, more everything Italy, Rome promises a traveler experience beyond just travel. 

The Vatican

Although the city-state of the Vatican is a state in and of its own, the center of the Roman Catholic Church is surrounded by the lands of Rome, the capital of Italy. As the home of the supreme Pontiff of the dominant religion of the world, the Vatican also has a lot to show from its iconic architecture to incredible and historical artworks. With Saint Peter’s Basilica at the center of it all, the Vatican is a destination Rome travelers should head to to experience the headquarters of Christianity. 

Venice

The center of Venice, St. Mark’s Square or Piazza San Marco, is a perfect destination given the hub is surrounded by the top tourist attractions of Italy. With the great Basilica of St. Mark standing beside the Doge’s Palace, visitors can find the tall Campanile of Venice. 

As one of Italy’s most romantic activities, riding on a gondola would promise to be the best activity to do with a lover. At the end of the plaza in the Grand Canal, tourists can find these gondolas together. And in a different direction, anyone is sure to find themselves lost on the way to Rialto Bridge due to its winding passageways. But getting lost is another activity, one that’s worth it, in the gorgeous city of Venice. 

Amalfi Coast

The next destination to head to is the blue-green-dominated areas of the Amalfi Peninsula, which promises a picturesque visit to the pretty houses that spill down its steep slopes. Everywhere you look, you’d find flowers blooming, adding color to the already-beautiful town. Not to mention, there are also beaches that, when you come close, would shimmer in the color emerald, providing that atmosphere that you’ve just arrived in paradise. 

Pisa and Lucca

When you’re in Tuscany, visiting these two nearby towns would be worth it. If you’re yet to see pictures of people holding the Leaning Tower of Pisa, then this is the perfect destination to head to in order to see people taking pictures of the tower in person. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this worldwide famous Italian infrastructure also includes the cathedral, baptistery, and Campo Santo. 

As the highlight of the baptistery, Nicola Pisano’s carved and free-standing pulpit is a masterpiece of the Roman sculpturing arts. To complete the entirety of the museum, the incredibly beautiful gold and silver works of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance are displayed for tourists to see. 

Then nearby there’s Lucca, which is one of Europe’s towns that are a pleasure to explore and simply enjoy due to its charming tree-lined park and other sights. Inside its walls, churches in Romanesque and Tuscan Gothic styles adorn the area with its incredible beauty, allowing tourists to take sight of the unique architecture of Europe. 

Verona

The compact historic center of this former Roman fortress is surrounded by a deep bend of the Adige River. Right at its heart is the remarkably well-preserved 1st-century Roman arena, the site of the world-famous Summer Opera Festival. 

Along with this, several Roman arches are intermingled between Medieval and Renaissance buildings, many of which illustrate Verona's long history as part of the Venetian Empire. Along the river stands his 14th-century castle, the great Castelvecchio, which guards the brick arch bridge Ponte Scaligero.

Despite its rich architectural and artistic treasures, Verona's greatest claim to tourist fame is based on fiction. Not that it’s fake, but that it is famous for being a focal point of literature. As the setting of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Verona has, over the past century, responded by building houses, balconies, and even tombs for fictional characters. 

Florence

Being a showcase of the Italian Renaissance, Florence can sometimes look like a sprawling museum. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del He Fiore, the Duomo is a landmark of world architecture, crowned by a massive gravity-defying dome

Half a dozen museums are brimming with paintings and sculptures, and many more masterpieces in churches and palaces. Stroll through the Boboli Gardens, explore the artisanal ateliers and workshops of Oltrarno, and shop for leather in Santa Croce, before indulging in art at the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Pitti.

Together with Giotto's marble bell tower and Ghiberti's octagonal baptistery with incomparable bronze doors, this destination is one of the finest Renaissance art ensembles in the world.

Naples

Just as canals are the hallmark of Venice and the Renaissance is the essence of Florence, in Naples, it's the sheer exuberance that captivates you. It's a busy place, with narrow streets full of color, noise, and life, perfect for visitors searching for that thrill, that adventure of a lifetime.

Stroll along the coast with the locals and enjoy views of Mount Vesuvius across the bay, take ferries to Capri and magical Sorrento, and visit the glass-domed Galleria Umberto I Shop in and be sure to try the pizza, which the Neapolitans say they invented.

With treasure-filled churches, opulent palaces lavishing the wealth of European royalty, and top archaeological museums showcasing discoveries from nearby Pompeii, Naples has much to see, do, and experience.