My Euro Travel in Knaresborough, England

FB time is over! Now, let's go and travel Europe again. I was browsing some images awhile ago and I landed in Knaresborough. It is an old and historic market town in the Borough of Harrogate, North Yorkshire, England. It is also famous for its spa, thus being called a spa town. I can imagine being like inside some soaking tubs when spending some time in their spa. Sad to say, I only have around one hour sightseeing in this place because I was catching the train back to Birmingham that time. The River Nidd also runs along this town.

There are some sights worthy to see in Knaresborough. It includes the remains of Knaresborough Castle, Mother Shipton's petrifying well, The House in the Rock, and several cave dwellings and a chapel dating from the Middle Ages.

Here are some snapshots I took during my visit last November 2008.

this was taken near the chapel in Knaresborough.

some houses beside River Nidd and the famous viaduct in Knaresborough. I should have taken better images of this bridge.
Knaresborough viaduct is an elegant four-span bridge standing 78ft high above the River Nidd.

another viaduct on River Nidd in Knaresborough.

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Window Shopping In Zurich, Switzerland

WSV is finally here! This word simply means Winterschlussverkauf. It is a German word which means Winter sale in English. This is the best time of the year to go shopping for winter clothes and accessories because most, if not all of these items are on sale. I am planning to do a green shopping in a few weeks. Let me see what is in my budget. wink!

Anyway, I did had a window shopping during our visit in Zurich, Switzerland last December 2010. First of all, it was Sunday and most of the shops were closed. Second, the main reason why I visited is because of their Christmas market. I am happy that I found an opened shop that sells souvenir items. I was already contented with what I bought as travel souvenirs.

Here is one of the shops in Zurich, Switzerland.

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The Parthenon in Athens , Greece

The Parthenon is dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their protector. It is a temple on Acropolis which dominates the city skyline of Athens, Greece. The Parthenon is regarded as an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece and of Athenian democracy and one of the world's greatest cultural monuments. Its construction began in 447 BC and was completed in 438 BC, although decorations of the Parthenon continued until 432 BC. It is the most important surviving building of Classical Greece, generally considered to be the culmination of the development of the Doric order. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of Greek art.

Thanks to my friend Ritche for this image taken during her vacation in Athens, Greece.
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ORIGIN OF PARTHENON

The origin of the Parthenon's name is from the Greek word "παρθενών" (parthenon) referred to the "maiden's apartments" in a house and in the Parthenon's case seems to have used only to a particular room of the temple; it is debated which room this is and how the room acquired its name. LSJ states that this room was the western cella of the Parthenon. Jamauri D. Green holds that the parthenon was the room in which the peplos presented to Athena at the Panathenaic Festival was woven by the arrephoroi, a group of four young girls chosen to serve Athena each year. Christopher Pelling asserts that Athena Parthenos may have constituted a discrete cult of Athena, intimately connected with, but not identical to, that of Athena Polias. According to this theory, the name of Parthenon means the "temple of the virgin goddess" and refers to the cult of Athena Parthenos that was associated with the temple. The epithet parthénos (Greek: παρθένος), whose origin is also unclear, meant "maiden, girl", but also "virgin, unmarried woman" and was especially used for Artemis, the goddess of wild animals, the hunt, and vegetation, and for Athena, the goddess of strategy and tactics, handicraft, and practical reason. It has also been suggested that the name of the temple alludes to the virgins (parthenoi), whose supreme sacrifice guaranteed the safety of the city.
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Make Valentine’s Day special. Win A Romantic Room for Two!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, HostelBookers unveils its best budget accommodation options for couples, many of which are found in romantic cities in Europe. Consisting of charming guesthouses, boutique hostels and intimate B&Bs with romantic room designs, they are a budget friendly alternative to the hotel this Valentine’s Day. Here are 3 European favourites:

Ca’ Arco Antico Guesthouse, a beautiful Venice hostel is reached by passing under an old stone arch and through a peaceful courtyard. Furnishings are traditional with beamed ceilings and lead-latticed windows created by master Murano glassworkers. The Rialto Bridge with views of the Grand Canal is a five minute walk.

Located in Valencia, Rooms Deluxe Hostel offers 28 beautifully themed ensuite rooms, each one designed and decorated by a different artist. Think four-posted beds, Buddhist temples and flamenco suites. You’ll also find free internet, WiFi, magnetic keycards, housekeeping and a private parking spot at your personal disposal.

Newly opened St Christopher’s Mosaic House is located right in the heart of Prague’s historic city centre, just a short walk from the buzzing Old Town Square. Pop in for a cocktail at Belushi’s Bar or relax in the beautiful terrace garden.

In addition, HostelBookers is offering one lucky couple a FREE Valentine’s hostel stay! Entrants simply need to upload their most FUN couple shot while travelling together to the HostelBookers Facebook page to be in with a chance of winning. For further information go to http://blog.hostelbookers.com/travel/valentines-day/.

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Visit to the Cadbury World Birmingham, England

I remembered my visit with a friend to Cadbury World as I was browsing the images I had during my vacation in England. If you happened to eat any Cadbury products, I know for sure that you know about Cadbury UK. It is a Bristish confectionery company, based in the Bournville suburb of Birmingham.

It was November 2008 when I had the chance to visit this factory. Of course, I bought some chocolates here.

striking a pose in front of Cadbury's sign.

the Cadbury shop that sells chocolates of all kinds, souvenirs and many more.

HISTORY OF CADBURY

In 1824, John Cadbury began vending tea, coffee and, later, chocolate at Bull Street in Birmingham and sometimes in India. The company was known as "Cadbury Brothers Limited". After John Cadbury's retirement, his sons, Richard and George, opened a major factory in the purpose-built suburb of Bournville, four miles south of the city.

After World War I, Cadbury Brothers Limited undertook a financial merger with J.S. Fry & Sons Limited. In 1969, it merged with Schweppes to form the international confectionery and beverage company Cadbury Schweppes (now Cadbury plc). In 1989, the company purchased Trebor Bassett, forming the UK confectionery subsidiary "Cadbury Trebor Bassett".

As of August 2004, Cadbury Trebor Bassett had 3,000 members of staff in eight factories in the UK, including Bournville, Sheffield, Marlbrook and Somerdale.

In 2009, Cadbury Trebor Bassett was renamed Cadbury UK and in early 2010 was taken over by American giant Kraft.

A new chain of Cadbury Cocoa House cafes was opened in October 2010, created by four British entrepreneurs and operating under licence. The first branch opened at Bluewater shopping centre in Kent, UK. more here

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Winter Shopping in Regensburg

This is the best time of the year to go shopping. Until now, winter sale is still going on in Germany. As we visited, a shoe store last Friday in Regensburg, most of their shoes are on sale. I was looking for kamik rain boots but they don't have it. During this rainy winter season, it is good to wear shoes like these. Winter shopping is still not over but I guess I don't need any winter stuffs right now since I already have a lot of it.

The image here was taken in Donau Einkaufscentrum, a shopping mall in Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany.

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My Euro Travel in Prague, Czech Republic

It's time to visit and see Europe again! I guess, it is favorable to visit again the capital city of Czech Republic. Prague is also its largest city. It has been a political, cultural and economic center of Europe particularly eastern Europe for the over 1,100 years of its existence. It is one of the beautiful cities I had visited in Europe.

Prague has been included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites which makes it one of Europe's most visited cities. It has also a good economic standing. Here are some images I took during our visit last 2008.

The building with two towers on the background is the Church of Our Lady before Týn or simply called as the Týn Cathedral. It is located on the Old Town Square, between Wenceslas Square and the Charles Bridge.

The Astronomical Clock at the Old Town Hall

Prague's Old Town Square is often bursting at the seams with tourists in the summer. Featuring various architectural styles including the gothic Týn Cathedral and baroque St. Nicholas Church, the square is an oasis for travelers wearied by Prague's narrow streets. Among many churches, tourists may find the Astronomical Clock on this square, while the tower at the Old Town Hall offers a panoramic view of Old Town.

The Vltava River that flows along Prague. It is called in German as Moldau.

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Roman Forum in Rome, Italy

I was browsing awhile ago the images I took from Rome, Italy. I had the chance to visit and to experience this city last summer of 2010. It was one of the most interesting and memorable travel I had in Europe. I can't imagine how big I am as I was browsing my images. I guess it is time to also browse for the best diet pills. I am hoping for another trip in Europe this year and hopefully that time, I look slimmer in my images. lol!

Let's go back to the main topic about Roman Forum. It is called in Italian as Foro Romano and in Latin as Forum Romanum. It is located in the small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills. Today, the Forum is a sprawling ruin of architectural fragments and intermittent archeological excavations attracting numerous sightseers. You can see here the statues and monuments commemorating the city's great men.

I can't imagine that I was in this place..that I was in Rome seeing its grandeur and beauty!

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My Euro Travel in Passau, Germany

Passau is a also known as the City of Three Rivers. It is located in Lower Bavaria, Germany. This city is very historical considering that in 5000 BC, the earliest evidence of human habitation was found in Passau region. Its historical old town also reflects the beauty of this city.

I had been to this city thrice and if given the chance to visit it again, I will surely do. Here are some images I took during our visit last November 2009. Never miss to have a boat trip when you visit Passau.

This is a part of the Domplatz (Cathedral Square) in Passau's Stephansdom

The New Residence (Neue Residenz in German) on the left side, served as a palace of the prince bishops since its completion in 1730. The building with towers in the middle is the St. Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) with its Gothic architecture. The fountain in front is called the Wittelsbacher Fountain.

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Remembering the Christmas Market in Zurich

Christmas markets are over now. I am just happy to reminisce the trips we did to some of the Christmas markets in Europe especially in Germany. One of the cities we visited was Zurich, Switzerland. This is so far the biggest indoor Christmas market I visited. I read an article that it is the biggest indoor Christmas market in Europe and I guess in the whole world too. I forgot to take a one a day vitamins during our trip there. I was quite excited that time because it was my first time in Zurich. There were also small Christmas markets scattered in the city aside from the indoor one.

The hightlight of the Christkindli Markt, as it is called in Swiss, was the very tall White Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals. Here is an image we took during our visit last December 2010.

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My Euro Travel in Bamberg, Germany

Bamberg is a city located in Upper Franconia, Bavaria, Germany. This city was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage last 1993. It is a historical city and was not destroyed by World War II. Bamberg also called a City of Creches, the Rome of Franconia and International Cultural Treasure. Another unique name given to Bamberg is Little Venice due to its location on the river Regnitz close to its confluence with the river Main.

Here are some images taken during our visit last October 2010.

the river Regnitz in Bamberg, Bavaria

The bridges connecting to the Old Town Hall. The building in front is the Rottmeisterhäuschen and at the back of this is the Old Town Hall.

The Old Town Hall, also known as the Island Town Hall, since it is located between the spans of two bridges...see that second image here.

Some of the main sights are:

* Cathedral (1237), with the tombs of emperor Henry II and Pope Clement II
* Alte Hofhaltung, residence of the bishops in the 16th and 17th centuries
* Neue Residenz, residence of the bishops after the 17th century
* Old Town Hall (1386), built in the middle of the Regnitz River, accessible by two bridges
* Klein-Venedig ("Little Venice"), a colony of picturesque fishermen's houses from the 19th century along one side of the river Regnitz.
* Michaelsberg Abbey, built in the 12th century on one of Bamberg's "Seven Hills"
* Altenburg, castle, former residence of the bishops

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Trip to Augsburg, Germany

We are visiting this time Augsburg, a city in the south-west of Bavaria in Germany. It is known as the second oldest city of Germany next to Trier and the third largest city in the state of Bavaria (called in German as Bayern). It is also known to be a University town.

We had the chance to visit this city last July 2010. You can truly see that this city is old and historical because of the old buildings and architecture you see around especially in the main town.

The Augustus Fountain at the center of the Rathausplatz or the Town Square. This was taken during our visit last July 2010.

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The city was founded in 15 BC by Drusus and Tiberius as Augusta Vindelicorum, under the orders of their stepfather Emperor Augustus. The name "Augusta Vindelicorum" means "Augusta of the Vindelici". This garrison camp soon became capital of the Roman province of Raetia.

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The Victoria Square in Birmingham, England

Let's visit part of Great Britain this time. I am featuring Birmingham, England in this article especially the famous Victoria Square. It is located near Chamberlain Square. It is a pedestrianised public square in Birmingham. This where the Town Hall and the Council House are also located. Three major roads, Colmore Row, New Street and Paradise Street meet there. It was formerly called as Council House Square but renamed to honour Queen Victoria on January 10, 1901.

Here are some images I took during my visit last 2008 in Birmingham, England.

Queen Victoria, original by Thomas Brock (1901 marble), recast in bronze by William Bloye (1951). The building on the background is the Council House.

The White Building in the background is the Town Hall of Birmingham. On the right side is the Council House.

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Walking Around in the Old Town of Prague

Prague is one of the most interesting cities I visited in Europe. It is the capital and the largest city of Czech Republic. It is more than two years now since I had the chance to see this city. We had a one day bus trip here and I agree that it is not enough to see everything in Prague in just a day. I need cards direct to turn the images I took in Prague into postcards. I have been planning for this for some time but it seems that I always forget it.

Prague has a lot to see and to offer. Some of its sights include the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, the Astronomical clock on Old Town Square, its Old Town, the Dancing House and some other more. You will surely enjoy this city once you visit it.

one of the busy streets in the Old Town of Prague. taken during our visit last September 2008.

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St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican, Rome, Italy

I felt honored everytime I remember our visit to Rome especially at the St. Peter's Basilica. It was truly an overwhelming feeling. Here are some information and images of this famous religious architecture.

The Papal Basilica of Saint Peter (Latin: Basilica Sancti Petri), officially known in Italian as the Basilica Papale di San Pietro in Vaticano and commonly known as St. Peter's Basilica, is a Late Renaissance church located within the Vatican City. St. Peter's Basilica has the largest interior of any Christian church in the world, holding 60,000 people. It is regarded as one of the holiest Catholic sites. It has been described as "holding a unique position in the Christian world" and as "the greatest of all churches of Christendom".

view of St. Peter's Square and you can see St. Peter's Basilica at the backgound.

In Catholic tradition, the basilica is the burial site of its namesake Saint Peter, who was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and, according to tradition, first Bishop of Rome and therefore first in the line of the papal succession. Tradition and some historical evidence hold that Saint Peter's tomb is directly below the altar of the basilica. For this reason, many Popes have been interred at St Peter's since the Early Christian period. There has been a church on this site since the 4th century. Construction of the present basilica, over the old Constantinian basilica, began on April 18, 1506 and was completed on November 18, 1626.

the Dome of the Basilica. It was brought to completion by Giacomo della Porta and Fontana.

In Catholic tradition, the basilica is the burial site of its namesake Saint Peter, who was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus and, according to tradition, first Bishop of Rome and therefore first in the line of the papal succession. Tradition and some historical evidence hold that Saint Peter's tomb is directly below the altar of the basilica. For this reason, many Popes have been interred at St Peter's since the Early Christian period. There has been a church on this site since the 4th century. Construction of the present basilica, over the old Constantinian basilica, began on April 18, 1506 and was completed on November 18, 1626.

there were a lot of people during our visit. It took us about two hours to go inside and climb the top of the dome. If you have fear in heights or close space and heart problems, be careful when climbing the 320 steps or you better not.

St. Peter's is famous as a place of pilgrimage, for its liturgical functions and for its historical associations. It is associated with the papacy, with the Counter-reformation and with numerous artists, most significantly Michelangelo. As a work of architecture, it is regarded as the greatest building of its age. Contrary to popular misconception, Saint Peter's is not a cathedral, as it is not the seat of a bishop. It is properly termed a papal basilica. The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the cathedral church of Rome. continue here

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Sightseeing in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of Netherlands. Unlike any other cities in Europe, you cannot find here a single Roman ruin, not even a Romanesque church or cathedral, no trace of Charlemagne. In other words, nothing!

But there are a lot of things to experience in this city. Some of it include seeing its museums, cruising in its canals, seeings its architecture and yes, shopping too! I forgot to look for Iphone 4 wood cases. I just remember that since they are famous for its wooden sandals, I expect to also find here wood cases for Iphones.

I bought with me again some travel souvenirs from Amsterdam. This image here is one of the souvenir shops where I bought some travel memorabilia.

I also would like you to know that Amsterdam is a city built entirely by rich traders and lovers of beauty.

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The Statues and Sculptures Inside Louvre Museum in Paris, France

I had been to Paris in France twice already. During my first visit in March 2009, I had the chance to go inside the Louvre Museum and saw some of its collections like the historical statues and sculptures.

Musée du Louvre, as it is called in French, officially named The Grand Louvre or simply the Louvre is considered to be one of the biggest museums in the world. It is also th most visited art museums in the world. It is housed in Louvre Palace built by Philip II during the 12th century. It contained hundreds of thousands of collections from the Medievel to Rennaisance and Modern eras.

I felt very lucky when I was able to go inside and saw some of its collections. A day inside the museum is not enough to see everything. Here are some of the images I took during my first visit last March 2009.

Religious Statues

Roman collections inside the Louvre Museum.

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The Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy

When we visited Rome, Italy last August 2010, one of the sights that I wanted to visit was Piazza di Spagna. This is where you see the so-called in English as Spanish Steps. I thought I can only see it in travel books or in the internet, but it was a dream came true seeing it in person.

Spanish steps is a set of steps climbing a steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna at the base and Piazza Trinità dei Monti. It is called Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti in Italian. You can see the church of the Santissima Trinità dei Monti on the top-end of the steps.

Opposite the Spanish Steps is the the narrow Via Condotti, home to many of Rome's designer shops. I am looking for an electronic shop here that sells cheap desktops but I did not find one. Here, you can find famous branded shops like Gucci,Prada, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Fendi, Cartier, Armani and some other more.

taken during our four-day trip in Rome last August 2010. I love this city! The foregound is a fountain called Fountain of the Old Boat.

In the Piazza at the base is the Early Baroque fountain called Fontana della Barcaccia ("Fountain of the Old Boat"), built in 1627-29 and often credited to Pietro Bernini, father of a more famous son, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who is recently said to have collaborated on the decoration. The elder Bernini had been the pope's architect for the Acqua Vergine, since 1623. According to an unlikely legend, Pope Urban VIII had the fountain installed after he had been impressed by a boat brought here by a flood of the Tiber river.

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Europe's Five Most Unique Cities

Travelling is a passion and the one who get addicted will not let its charm get away. A traveler always wants to explore new places and for all of those, I to want to share my experience of Europe’s five most unique cities. All these cities has had a history of their own and their charisma asks you to keep visit them again and again.

Paris:

Paris, the French capital is always known for great Eiffel Tower but there is lot more apart from that wonder of the world in this city. The question of what not to do in Paris is more important than what to do. The city offers so many attractions that they are even difficult to mention. Stay in an affordable hotel in Paris but make sure it’s in the center. A walk alongside River Seine, Disney land adventure, watching a Moulin Rouge show, visit to Notre Dame or just enjoying snacks at any road side café will definitely provides you the utmost pleasure. I recommend a Paris sightseeing tour if you want to see the best attractions that Paris has to offer.
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Istanbul:

Istanbul, the Turkish delight is the gateway of Europe and is the only city in the world which is located in two continents i.e. Asia and Europe. The moment you stepped in Istanbul, you will mesmerized by the finest architecture on both sides of Bosphorus channel. This architecture gives you the glimpse of so many forms like Byzantine, Roman, Greek and of course Ottoman as Istanbul has seen all of these civilizations in different times. The Blue mosque, Topkapi, palace, Hagia Sophia, Galata Bridge, Grand Bazaar and Princess Island are some of the must visit places.

Venice:

A European tour is incomplete without a trip to Venice. This Italian city is unique and one of its kind. Also known as ‘The Floating City’ or ‘City of Water’, Venice can easily be declared as the most romantic city of Europe. Beautiful Gothic style of architecture, its fashion galleries, music, art and cuisine thus everything is so special about Venice that one cannot afford to ignore this fantastic city.

London:

London is no doubt the heart of United Kingdom. If you are in Europe and not visited London then you have not seen anything in Europe. London a much vibrant place is a city where you can see people from almost every country. London will soon host the Olympic Games in 2012, so lots of development work is on these days. Madame Tussaud Museums, Thames River Cruise, London Eye, Windsor Castle, Westminster Abbey are some of the many attractions at London. London can mesmerize any one with its magic.
creditBarcelona:

It will be great if you end your European tour at Barcelona in Spain. Having a marvellous past this city enthrals you with its beautiful nights and bright sunny days. You can enjoy the Mediterranean climate at Barcelona which attracts sun-seekers from around the globe. Number of interesting festivals and events are on throughout the year at Barcelona which never let you weary. This city is full of life and colors and is known for his museums, Picasso’s paintings and many more.

Although the European continent has much more to offer but by visiting these cities you can feel the soul of the Europe. The joy which you get by having a Turkish Bath or by a quite walk at Champs Elysees Street in Paris is indescribable. Even visiting Piccadilly Circus at London or Barcelona’s old town will give you a life time experience.

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Countries To Visit in the Baltic Region

I guess it is time to talk about Europe travel again. I have a lot of dreams and wishes for this year. One of it, is to see and experience more places in Europe. There are still a lot of cities and countries that I wish to visit in this continent and I am hoping to see more this year. I wish to spend a holiday in the Baltic regions when time and money are available. Special thanks to a certain Baltic travel site who gives me the ideas and inspiration to visit this region in Europe.

Here are some of the reasons why I wish to visit these Baltic countries;

Lithuania

It is a country located in the Northern part of Europe and the southernmost of the three Baltic states. It is a member of the European Union and Schengen Agreement which also means that when I travel in this country, I don't need anymore a tourits visa. Its capital and largest city is Vilnius. Spending a holiday in Lithuania seems to be very interesting because it is very rich in culture and history. This country is also famous for its sandy coastline. Its marvelous scenery and landscape are worthy to experience.

The Town Hall Square in in Vilnius, Lithuania.credit

Estonia

It is located in Northern Europe and one of the least populous countries in the European Union. Its capital is Talinn which is famous for its Christmas market among the Baltic regions. This country is another fascinating holiday destination in the Baltics. Whether you want to spend a spa break or simply enjoy your holiday in its coastal areas, are only some of the reasons why Estonia is one of the charming states to visit in the Baltics.

Latvia

Officially known as the Republic of Latvia, it is one of the Baltic countries which also offer something to its guests and visitors. Whether you want to spend a city break in its capital, Riga or maybe spend a holiday in its 531 kilometers costal area, for sure spending a holiday here is quite memorable and delightful. There a lot of museums and historical monuments to see here.

I was informed that the best time to travel here is from June to September.

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The Famous Manneken- Pis in Brussels, Belgium

Happy New Year! I hope that you all had a wonderful first weekend of 2011. I had quite a nice one and I can't complain about it. It seems that I was also away for some days. This blog had a little holiday break and I guess, let's begin to travel again.

I had already seen some images of Manneken-Pis in the internet and honestly, I don't have an idea about it. During my visit to Brussels, Belgium last August 2010, I finally found the statue of this very famous little boy. There is a good story I read about this legendary Brussels figure.

A legend says that a rich bourgeois had lost his only son in the crowd during popular festivities. After five days, he found him in the corner of Etuve Street, doing what the little man is doing. You know what I mean folks?

Manneken-Pis whose known to be people's friend has received many military and civil honours and distinctions. The Elector of Bavaria, Germany named Maximilian Emmanuel, gave him his first costume. Ever since then, the lords and burgesses have offerred him the most beautiful clothes. His wardrobe is probably the most varied and complete that has ever existed. There is a museum of his clothes in Brussels.

taken during my visit with a friend, Nonna in Brussels last August 2010.

see what the little man is doing? that is Manneken -Pis..a very cute figure in Brussels.

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