Explore Austin Texas

Austin, Texas is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food. It is also home to the University of Texas, one of the largest schools in the USA. South by Southwest, an annual set of film, interactive media, and music festivals. Home to Formula 1 races at Circuit of the Americas.  

Austin Street Art, above “Greetings from Austin” 1720 S. First Street, Austin

Here are some popular things to do in Austin:

1. Live Music and Entertainment: Sixth Street: Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Sixth Street offers a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues featuring a diverse range of genres.

ACL Live at The Moody Theater: A popular music venue that hosts concerts, performances, and tapings of the Austin City Limits TV show.

The Continental Club: A historic music venue featuring live music, including blues, rock, and country.

2. Outdoor Activities:

Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake: Enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or simply take a stroll along the scenic hike-and-bike trail around Lady Bird Lake.

Zilker Park: A large urban park offering picnic areas, Barton Springs Pool (a natural spring-fed swimming pool), and various recreational facilities.

Mount Bonnell: Climb the stairs to the top for panoramic views of the city and Lake Austin.

3. Cultural Attractions:

Bullock Texas State History Museum: Learn about the history of Texas through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and immersive displays.

The Blanton Museum of Art: Explore a wide range of art collections from various periods and cultures.

Texas State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the state's impressive capitol building and learn about Texas history and government.

Texas State Capital

4. Food and Dining:

Food Trucks: Austin is known for its food truck scene, offering a wide range of cuisines from tacos to gourmet doughnuts

Franklin Barbecue: Famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, be prepared to wait in line for this culinary experience.

South Congress Avenue: Explore eclectic shops and dine in trendy restaurants along this bustling street.

Home Slice Pizza on Congress Ave

5. Outdoor Markets:

Austin Farmers' Market: Visit local farmers' markets to find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.

Hope Outdoor Gallery: An outdoor graffiti park where artists create colorful murals and visitors can admire the artwork.

6. Natural Springs:

Barton Springs Pool: A natural spring-fed pool in Zilker Park that offers a refreshing swim year-round.

Hamilton Pool Preserve: A stunning natural pool formed by a collapsed grotto, surrounded by lush vegetation and a waterfall.

7. Nightlife and Entertainment:

Rainey Street: A trendy area with bungalow-style bars and food trucks, offering a unique nightlife experience.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema: Enjoy movies, food, and drinks in a fun and interactive movie theater setting.

University of Texas Austin

Questions or Comments?

Read More »

Top 10 of Everything at India

Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple, Amritsar)

If you are looking forward to embracing the holy beauty of culture, diversity in religions, spiritual abodes and lip-smacking street foods, then India is the place to be.

I thought of working on the best places to visit, eat food at, accommodate you to and embrace the beauty of and came up with this enticing list of spell-binding wonders. Without taking much time, here’s our Top 10 of everything, when at India:

Safety:  Being an Indian, I find India to be very safe, to a foreigner, I would suggest using common sense and you'll be just fine.

Airport Immigration Check and Visa Airport Immigration Check is quick and Easy, citizens of most countries need a Visa to enter India, more on eVisa Click Here!

Trains: India has one of the world's largest railway networks, Passengers can book tickets through mobile app, or at http://www.indianrail.gov.in/

TIP Groupon is very Popular in India

1. Historical / Architectural Monuments:


India’s history dates back to 5000+ years and have been offering a rich civilization and cultural traits to ponder upon. Offering a scientific approach to its architecture, standing proud and tall letting the tourists dwell into the history behind the making of these spell-binding structures, India lets you embrace its traditional and cultural appreciations with all warm hearts.

When in India, do stop by at the following sights, click
on the links:

1. Monuments of Hampi (Karnataka)
2. Taj Mahal (Agra),
3. Sanchi Stupa (Madhya Pradesh),
4. Ajanta and Ellora Caves ( Maharashtra)
5. Jantar Mantar (Rajasthan)
6. Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu)
7. Sun Temple (Orissa)
8. Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh)
9. Jaisalmer Fort (Rajasthan)
10. Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple, Amritsar)


2. Eating and Drinking in India:

With diversity in cultural and religious backgrounds, India has a beautiful array of lip-smacking cuisines to relinquish your taste buds. From Gol gappe to theplas, and mishti dohi to gulab jamun, Indian’s surely are big-time foodies and love their appetite.

Here’s a list of some of the best dishes you should try out at different states in India as follows:

1. Makke Di Roti and Sarson Ka Saag (Punjab)
2. Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepla (Gujrat)
3. Pav Bhaji, Thali peeth(Maharashtra)
4. Ker, Sangri, Gatte Ki Sabji (Rajasthan)
5. Sandesh, Daab Jhingri, Rasgulla and Mishti Dohi (West Bengal)
6. Momos, Thukpa, Gundruk (Sikkim)
7. Hyderabadi Biryani, Mirch Salan, Kodi Kura (Andhra Pradesh)
8. Masala Dosa, Chettinad Chicken, Rasam (Tamil Nadu)
9. Red Ant Chutney (Chattisgarh)
10. Masor Tenga (Assam)

3. Affordable and Safe Shelter Recommendations:

If you are the kind that looks forward to budget travelling then you should definitely try a hand at seeking shelter at a shrine, ashram or spiritual lodge. Here’s where you can return the favor as you do ‘seva’ (Hindi term that means selfless service as devotion). If you are not quite comfortable with the concept then you can look out for accommodation services from

1. Zostel
2. Holiday Homes
3. State Tourism Departments
4. Local Lodges
5. Couchsurfing
6. Rent a Bungalow
7. Inexpensive Hostels and Hotels
8. Dharamshalas
9. Paying Guest, Home stay (For slow travelers)
10. Religious institutions

Also, hotel rates are quite affordable and one can have a good stay at a comfy hotel for the price of 900-1500 Indian Rupees for a night.

4. Adventure and Fun Sports:

If you are looking forward to some fun activities and adventures whilst your stay at India then you should definitely visit these must-visit adventure sports destinations popular amongst Indians.

1. Skiing in Kashmir
2. Mountaineering in Uttarakhand
3. River Rafting in Himachal
4. Flying Fox in Kerala
5. Bungee Jumping in Karnataka
6. Water Sports (Swimming, Jet Skiing, Para Sailing, etc) in Goa
7. Paragliding in Maharashtra
8. Rock Climbing in Madhya Pradesh
9. Scuba Diving in Andaman
10. Trekking in Arunachal.

Jaisalmer Fort (Rajasthan)

Apart from all these beautiful sights and attractions, India lets you trail through an array of beautiful and serene beaches, waterfalls and a wide canopy of forests, sanctuaries and national parks. Do not miss out on any of these places, you never know, one of the best of your adventures might await your presence at India.

If you think one of the destinations didn’t make up to the list, then comment below on your favorite destination, food, sport or idea of fun or travel that you experienced while at India.

Happy travelling to you!

Read More »

One Day in Acapulco Mexico

As the sun rises over the shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean, the vibrant city of Acapulco comes to life with an energy that is both infectious and invigorating. The warm breeze carries with it a mix of salt and the scent of freshly prepared seafood, setting the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation.

Acapulco was Day stopover on my cruise to Cross The Panama Canal.

Safety: Found Acapulco to be safe for tourists.

Morning:

My day started with a stroll along the famous La Costera Avenue, a bustling waterfront boulevard that runs parallel to the beach. Street vendors are already setting up their stalls, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to colorful textiles. You stop by a local café and savor a traditional Mexican breakfast of chilaquiles, a dish made of tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese, and eggs.

Acapulco Mexico  

With the morning sun casting a golden glow, I made my way to Playa Caleta, one of Acapulco's most iconic beaches. The soft sand beckons you to kick off your shoes and dip your toes into the refreshing waves. Locals and tourists alike are enjoying beach volleyball, building sandcastles, and basking in the sun. 

Afternoon:

Took a Cab to The "Capilla de la Paz" (Chapel of Peace) Cost $30 round Trip From the Cruise terminal port, the cab driver did not speak any English, only Spanish. 

The Capilla de la Paz is a stunning white chapel that sits atop a hill overlooking Acapulco Bay. It's known for its iconic design, breathtaking panoramic views, and its significance as a symbol of peace and spirituality in the region. The chapel was built in the late 20th century and has become one of the most recognizable and visited sites in Acapulco.

Architecture: The chapel's architecture is characterized by its modern and minimalist design. The clean lines and white facade stand out against the backdrop of the lush surrounding landscape and the azure waters of the bay. The simple yet striking design creates a sense of tranquility and serenity.

Giant Cross: One of the most prominent features of the chapel is the towering cross that stands in front of it. This cross is not only a religious symbol but also a symbol of hope and peace. It can be seen from various points around Acapulco and has become an iconic part of the city's skyline.

Panoramic Views: The main draw of visiting the Capilla de la Paz is the breathtaking panoramic views it offers. From the chapel's elevated location, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of Acapulco Bay, the cityscape, and the surrounding mountains, the Capilla de la Paz is a must-visit destination in Acapulco.

Evening:

As the day transitions to evening, headed to Zócalo, the city's central square. The atmosphere is electric, with live music, street performances, and the chatter of locals and tourists mingling. One can find a cozy spot at an open-air restaurant and savor authentic Mexican tacos, sizzling fajitas, and a side of guacamole.

And it was time to get back to the ship and onwards to Guatemala. 

Read More »

Singapore Places to Eat

Singapore is renowned for its vibrant food scene, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences that reflect its multicultural heritage. From hawker stalls serving up local favorites to upscale dining establishments, there's something for everyone.

After having been to Singapore 5 times, my favorite place to eat is Arab St. Its is a must to go places for great food. It's a short walk from Bugis MRT station, Explore the area for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, and don't miss the iconic shawarma and hummus. 

Sultan Mosque Singapore

 

For Indian food, my place to go is Komala Vilas: A well-known spot for authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. Also Khansama Tandoori Restaurant: Offers a range of North Indian dishes, including delicious tandoori options.

For Japanese Cuisine:

Sushi Tei: A chain that serves a variety of sushi and Japanese dishes.

Shinji by Kanesaka: A high-end sushi restaurant for an exquisite dining experience.

ION Orchard: A shopping mall with a wide range of dining options.

VivoCity: Another mall with diverse food choices, overlooking the waterfront.

Questions and comments?

Read More »

3 Days in Belgrade Serbia

Belgrade Sign located by Sava River

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia has beautiful architecture, a vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and some of the best book fairs, movie festivals, theaters, and events in Europe. The city is tourist friendly, has low crime rate and friendly people who are happy to help.

Currency Serbian Dinar is the official currency though I was able to use credit cards and Euros everywhere. At the time of writing this post 1 USD equals 108 Serbian Dinar.

Besides walking and a bus ride from the Airport, took mostly cabs. Could not find Uber in Belgrade.

Day 1. Arrived at Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade on a early morning flight from Ljubljana Slovenia, As of 2023 Serbia is not part of European union, USA passport holders do not need a visa for tourism. Got local currency at the Airport ATM, and once outside the Airport looked for buses to go to Stari Grad or Old town, that's where my hotel was, conveniently located to several eating places and tourist attractions. Found the bus and driver was very helpful and let me know where to get off, it was a good 45 minute ride from the Airport to Stari Grad in Belgrade.

Checked into the hotel and headed to Knez Mihailova Street: A pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, often considered the heart of Belgrade. It's a great place for shopping, people-watching, and soaking in the city's atmosphere. After a lot of walking it was Time for some world famous Serbian pancakes 

Day 2. After Breakfast, headed towards Republic Square, a 10 minute walk from my hotel to take a walking tour of Belgrade

National Theatre Belgrade

Republic Square: This is one of the main squares in Belgrade, surrounded by historic buildings and important landmarks. The National Museum and the National Theatre are located here. The walking tour started in front of the Prince Mihailo Monument Statue in Republic Square. 

The tour goes towards Skadarlija: Often referred to as the "Bohemian Quarter," Skadarlija is a cobblestone street known for its traditional restaurants, art galleries, and charming atmosphere.

Belgrade Fortress: Walk uphill to reach the Belgrade Fortress, a historic site that offers panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Explore the fortress walls, visit the Victor Monument, and enjoy the peaceful Kalemegdan Park within the complex.

Photo taken from the Belgrade fortress of Sava and Danube rivers

After the tour ended, I met up tourists from India and Sweden and shared a cab to visit Hram Svetog Save which is a Serbian Orthodox church in Belgrade

This is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and an iconic symbol of Belgrade. The interior is equally impressive with beautiful frescoes and intricate details. The church is located on the Vračar plateau and The name translates to "The Temple of Saint Sava".

After meals we visited Lake Sava and took a tourist train ride that circles around the lake  

Day 3

Zeleni Venac Market: Visited this bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local products, and a variety of goods.

Terazije Square: Another central square with notable landmarks like the Terazije Fountain and the historic Hotel Moskva. The architecture around this area represents various styles from different periods.

After an incredible 3 days, it was time to head to the Airport and headed towards Greece 

Questions or Comments?

Read More »

Things to do in Ljubljana Slovenia

Welcome to Ljubljana, the charming capital city of Slovenia! This picturesque city offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will surely captivate you. Slovenia  is the only country with LOVE in its name, S'love'nia

Arrival: Took a flight from Warsaw Poland, took the airport shuttle to hotel for 12 euros.

Stay: Stayed in a hotel across from the Dragon Bridge, cost was around 60 euros, plenty of eating places near by and walking distance to major tourist attractions.

Here are my recommendations on things to do in Ljubljana

Start your journey at Start at the Triple Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ljubljana. The Tourist Information office is next to the bridge where you can get maps and any info tourism related.

Franciscan Church 

Old Town:

The heart of Ljubljana is its charming Old Town. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, adorned with colorful baroque buildings, and visit Prešeren Square, dominated by the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. Also know as the Pink Church, Its right across from the Triple Bridge. Do go inside the church, its beautiful 

Ljubljanica River:

The Ljubljanica River flows through the city, and its embankments are lined with outdoor cafes, artisan shops, and vibrant markets. Consider taking a leisurely boat cruise to see the city from a different perspective. There are several places you can take the river boat from, you'll see Ticket vendors selling tickets, buy the ticket and go down the stairs were you wait for the boat to come pick you up.

Central Market:

Visit the Central Market, where you can find fresh produce, local products, and artisan crafts. The market is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and perhaps even sample some traditional Slovenian snacks or trying traditional dishes like "potica" (nut roll), and "žlikrofi" (dough pockets filled with various fillings).

Dragon Bridge:

Visit the Dragon Bridge, a 20th-century bridge that is decorated with dragons, popular myth is when a young virgin crosses the bridge, the dragon moves its tail.

Ljubljana Slovenia Dragon Bridge

Ljubljana Castle:

It overlooks the city from a hill. You can either hike up the hill or take the funicular for a more relaxed ride. Once at the castle, enjoy panoramic views of the city, explore the historical exhibitions, and learn about the castle's rich history.

Day Trips:

Ljubljana is conveniently located for day trips to other beautiful Slovenian destinations. Consider visiting Lake Bled, known for its stunning emerald-green lake and the iconic Bled Castle. You could also explore Postojna Cave and Škocjan Caves, both offering incredible underground formations.

Questions or Comments?

Read More »

Puerto Williams Chile Travel

Puerto Williams is a small town located on Navarino Island in southern Chile. It is often referred to as the southernmost town in the world, and it serves as the capital of the Chilean Antarctic Province. Due to its remote location and stunning natural surroundings, Puerto Williams has become an increasingly popular destination for adventure travelers, stopped here on my expedition cruise to Antarctica. 

The immigration officers from Chile came onboard the ship to stamp entry into Chile as we had sailed from Ushuaia Argentina.

Things to do

Museo Martin Gusinde: This museum is dedicated to the indigenous peoples of Tierra del Fuego. It showcases artifacts, photographs, and information about the native cultures that have inhabited the region for centuries.

Naval and Maritime Museum: Given Puerto Williams' naval presence, this museum provides insight into the area's maritime history and its connection to the Chilean Navy.

Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife, including various bird species, seals, and sometimes even whales. Guided wildlife tours can be arranged to explore the local fauna.

Kayaking and Canoeing: The region's pristine waters offer opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. You can paddle along the coastlines and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Bow of the Yelcho (replica) Walking distance from the port of entry.

 

Above Photo: Bow of the Yelcho (replica), the ship is famous for rescuing the crew of Ernest Shackleton's Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition from Elephant Island in 1916. Yelcho was a steam-powered cutter that was originally used as a tugboat before entering Chilean Navy service. 

A little History about Yelcho 

The Yelcho was commanded by Captain Luis Pardo Villalón. The Yelcho sailed from Punta Arenas, Chile, on August 25, 1916. It arrived at Elephant Island on August 30, 1916. The crew of the Yelcho was able to rescue all 22 men who had been stranded on the island for 10 months.

The rescue of the Shackleton's crew was a major international news story. It was a testament to the courage and determination of both Shackleton and Captain Pardo. The Yelcho is considered a hero ship and is remembered as one of the most important ships in Antarctic history.

Cape Horn: Puerto Williams is a departure point for tours to Cape Horn, the southernmost point of South America. This iconic landmark is known for its turbulent waters and rich maritime history. Due to rough sea conditions the ship I was on was unable to dock at Cape Horn.

An impact crater that lies at the Moon's south pole is named after Shackleton.

Questions or comments?

Read More »

Street food Gwangjang Market Seoul

Gwangjang Market 광장시장

In Seoul Korea during both my visits, I ate at Gwangjang Market.

How to get there, take a cab or uber, you can also try the metro.

Here are just a few of the many delicious street foods that you can find at Gwangjang Market. Be sure to try some of the other popular dishes, such as pajeon (green onion pancake), eomuk (fish cake), Bindae-tteok (Mung bean pancake), Tteokbokki (Spicy rice cakes) and Hodo Kwaja (Walnut cookie) which is a traditional Korean cookie made with walnuts, honey, and sugar..

The prices of street food in Gwangjang Market are very reasonable. Most dishes cost between 5,000 and 10,000 Korean won (about $4-8 USD).

Gwangjang Market is a great place to experience the flavors of Korea. The market is open from 9am to 10pm, so you can visit at any time of day. However, the best time to go is during the evening, when the market is most lively.  



Get a metro map from one of many tourist offices.

Read More »

Cabo San Lucas Mexico

Cabo San Lucas is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer. Had only one day to explore as I was on a ship and had not booked a shore excursion, Here's a suggested itinerary for things to see and do in Cabo San Lucas in one day

Cabo is a Tender Port, Tendering is when smaller boats are used to transport passengers from the cruise ship to a port. Once in port, you'll be approached by several folks offering tours, if you decide to go with one -  do bargain.

Morning:

Land's End (El Arco): Start your day by visiting the iconic Land's End rock formations, including the famous El Arco arch. You can take a boat tour or water taxi from the marina to get up close to these stunning natural formations.

Lover's Beach and Divorce Beach: These two beaches are located near El Arco. Lover's Beach is calm and suitable for swimming, while Divorce Beach on the Pacific Ocean side has strong currents and is not recommended for swimming, but it's a beautiful spot to take in the views.

Late Morning:

Cabo San Lucas Marina: Head back to the marina area and take a stroll around. The marina is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. It's a great place to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and grab a bite to eat.

Afternoon:

Medano Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Cabo San Lucas, known for its lively atmosphere and various water activities. You can relax on the beach, have a drink or get a massage, the place I went to was charging USD 40 for a massage.

Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the beachside restaurants or head back to the marina area for more dining options.

Late Afternoon:

Glass-Bottom Boat Tour or Snorkeling: Take a glass-bottom boat tour or go snorkeling to explore the underwater beauty of the Sea of Cortez. Many tours provide snorkeling gear and take you to spots teeming with marine life.

Evening:

It was time for me to head back to the cruise ship, if you have time here is my suggestion -
Sunset Cruise: Wrap up your day with a sunset cruise. Cabo San Lucas is known for its breathtaking sunsets, and a cruise will allow you to enjoy the view from the water. Many cruises offer drinks and entertainment on board.

There are a lot of Pharmacies in Cabo selling cheap generic medicines, Avoid. 

Questions or comments, post below.

Read More »

Weekend Trip to Rockport Texas

 

Earlier this year in 2023 did a family weekend trip to Rockport Texas, a 3 and a half hour trip from Austin Texas.

Stay - Stayed at Quality Inn for $70 a night, the motel is right on the beach.

Things to do 

Fulton Mansion

Fulton Mansion - A mile down the road from my Motel, beautiful historic home,  There is a Visitors Center across from The Fulton Mansion with a small museum about the house and the family who built it. This is where you buy admission tickets Price is $7, and they also have a gift shop.

The Beach

Went for a walk along the beach, didn't swim as it was cold.

Other attractions are Texas Maritime Museum , Rockport Art Center and Goose Island State park.

Victoria Texas 

On the way back to Austin, stopped at a beautiful Town of Victoria, as the name suggests there are beautiful Victorian houses with street Signs indicating where to turn. Didn't take pictures of houses as these are actual residents where people live.

Did however take a photo of the Victoria Court house

Do comment and share this post, Thanks!

Read More »

Punta Arenas Chile Travel

Plaza de Armas

Punta Arenas was a stopover on my way back from Antarctica in January 2020 

Punta Arenas, sometimes also called the ‘city of the red roofs,’ is the capital of Chile’s Magallanes region. This cultural melting pool has a lot to offer the world, and many visitors are surprised by its cultural diversity and natural beauty. Most people called it the city of red roofs because of the red metal roofs that most of the buildings in the city had. The red color came from the protective spray that builders used on those metal roofs.

Punta Arenas sees many activities with sea, land, and air pathways, despite its far-away location. It is also the starting point for many Antarctic expeditions, with recent expeditions bringing an economic boom with them. 

Things To Do In Punta Arenas, Chile.

One can find very convenient about Punta Arenas because it is possible to walk to most of the tourist attractions in Punta Arenas. 

Visit Plaza de Armas

My hotel Hotel Cabo De Hornos was across the street from Plaza de Armas with  The stately statue of Ferdinand Magellan in the center of the park, the namesake for this region of Chile. 

Board the Nao Victoria Museo

History buffs love Nao Victoria Museo because it is a replica of the carrack ship that Ferdinand Magellan used to discover what people now know as the Magallanes. For that reason, this replica has historical importance and is an important part of Punta Arenas’s history.

Climb the Cerro De La Cruz

Want to see the beautiful city from above? The Hill of the Cross or the Cerro de La Cruz will provide you with a breathtaking view of the idyllic city from above, with its colorful metal roofs and a stunning vista, including the Strait of Magellan.

Explore Fort Bulnes

The protectors of this old city built Fort Bulnes to evade attackers. Tourists worldwide now explore its nooks and crannies and get a feel of old-world Chile before it became the gateway to Antarctica that it currently is.

Punta Arenas Airport 

Questions or comments?

Read More »

Walking Tour of Riga Latvia

Self Walking Tour of Riga Latvia

Arrival: Took a 4 hour Bus ride from Tallinn Estonia

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours (excluding time for exploring attractions and taking breaks)

Start: Riga Cathedral Square

1. Riga Cathedral Square:

Begin your walking tour at Riga Cathedral Square, where you'll find the impressive Riga Cathedral. This medieval cathedral is one of the city's most significant landmarks. Take some time to admire its architecture and the surrounding square.

2. St. Peter's Church:

Head to St. Peter's Church, known for its towering spire and panoramic views from the observation deck. You can choose to visit the interior or simply enjoy the exterior architecture.

Above photo I took from St. Peter's Church observation deck.

3. House of the Blackheads:

Walk to the House of the Blackheads, a historic building with intricate decorations. It's a symbol of Riga's trading heritage and hosts various events. Note that the original building was destroyed during WWII, but a reconstruction stands in its place.

House of the Blackheads

4. Riga Town Hall Square:

Continue to Riga Town Hall Square, a vibrant square surrounded by colorful buildings. You can often find markets, festivals, and events taking place here.

5. Swedish Gate and Three Brothers:

Walk through the Swedish Gate, a remaining gate from the medieval city wall. Nearby, you'll find the "Three Brothers" houses, a trio of medieval buildings showcasing different architectural styles.

6. Art Nouveau District:

Make your way to the Art Nouveau district, particularly along Alberta Street. Riga boasts some of the finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. Admire the ornate facades and intricate details.

7. Riga Central Market:

Head to the Riga Central Market  for a lively experience. It's one of Europe's largest markets and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local foods, and crafts.

8. Freedom Monument:

Walk to the Freedom Monument, a towering symbol of Latvia's independence. The monument is located in a central square and often serves as a gathering place for various events.

9. Esplanade Park:

Take a stroll through Esplanade Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. It's a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

10. National Opera House:

Pass by the Latvian National Opera House, an architectural gem with a rich history. If you're interested, you can check the schedule for opera and ballet performances.

End: Riga Old Town 

Read More »

Things to see in Warsaw Poland

Warsaw! The capital city of Poland is rich in history, culture, and architecture. My visitors guide that will take you through some of the most important and interesting sites in the city.

Bus station Taxi Scam, Arrived from Vilnius, on a long bus ride, there are several Taxis outside the main bus station, since I didn't speak Polish they wanted $200 USD to take me to my hotel, Taxis in Warsaw have meters, don't fall for the scam.

Stay: Stayed at a B&B off of Nowy Swiat, great location, plenty cafes and restaurants and walking distance to major tourist attractions.

Places to see

1. Castle Square: Its here where you'll find the Royal Castle and Sigismund's Column. The Royal Castle is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and was the official residence of Polish monarchs.

 Sigismund's Column Warsaw

2. Old Town: From Castle Square, explore the charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Warsaw's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Market Square and enjoy the historical atmosphere.

Old Town Market Square 

3. Warsaw Barbican: This medieval defensive structure is a remnant of the city's fortifications. It's a great spot for photos and offers a glimpse into Warsaw's past.

Warsaw Barbican

4. New Town: Walk to the New Town and visit the New Town Market Square. Despite its name, this area is also rich in history and architecture.

5. Krakowskie Przedmieście: An elegant boulevard, lined with historic buildings, churches, and palaces. You'll pass by landmarks like the Presidential Palace and the University of Warsaw.

6. Warsaw University Library Rooftop Garden: This hidden gem offers panoramic views of the city. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

7. Lazienki Park: Walk to this beautiful park, known as the Royal Baths Park. Explore the park's various gardens, monuments, and the iconic Palace on the Isle.

8. Chopin's Benches: As you wander through Lazienki Park, you'll find several benches with statues of Frederic Chopin. These benches often host live piano performances during the warmer months.

9. Ujazdowski Castle: This castle houses an art center and museum, focusing on modern and contemporary art. The surrounding Ujazdowski Park is a nice place for a leisurely stroll.

10. Warsaw Uprising Monument, located on the southern side of Krasiński Square.

Thanks for visiting, do comment below and share on social Media.

Read More »