After you get used to the names of all countries that now occupy the Balcans, why not see for yourself what they have to offer? Montenegro is a lovely small gem located nearby. You can rent a car and drive yourself, but note that passport control can be a nuisance, or you can hire a private or semi-private tour for convenience. The highlights of our… Read more »
Archives: Great spots
You could easily walk past without noticing the elusive entrance to the Franciscan Church and Monastery. Located in Placa, the main street in Old Town the monastery entrance is accessed via Pile Gate. We do recommend you find it, as the interiors are simply marvelous. A visit to this Dominican monastery will be full of history and culture, and the cathedral holds a treasured piece… Read more »
This pebble beach in Babin Kuk draws little similarity to the more famous namesake in Rio de Janeiro. One of the largest in Lapad peninsula, this Copacabana is a small beach, yet a good option if you are staying in the region and willing to vary from your hotel’s own private beach, bearing in mind that almost all Lapad’s coastline is privately owned. The surrounding… Read more »
Mostly frequented by locals, Fokos beach is away from the crowds and does not have beach clubs or bars. In fact, the beach has no formal infrastructure, and there are no fancy seats, sunbeds or parasols in sight. Bring your own towels, chairs and bottled water. There is, however, a lovely small tavern, where you can have a simple and delicious lunch. We had some… Read more »
Located in Panormos beach this is one of our preferred beach clubs in Mykonos. It is remarkably beautiful, with a beach décor and rustic comforts difficult to find elsewhere. The beach is gorgeous and you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas to comfortably enjoy a relaxing day by the stunning, calm and pristine waters. Service is very good and the staff welcoming and helpful, regardless of… Read more »
No one would blame you for travelling to Mykonos to enjoy nothing but the sun, sea and sand amidst such magnificent scenery, but do consider having a half day cultural program in your schedule. After all, you are in Greece, the home of Mythology and a country whose rich history is part of the culture, of which Greeks are most proud. There is no need… Read more »
Agios Ioannis is a quiet beach in the south of the island which attracts less people than the usually crowded and more famous nearby spots. It is situated in the southwestern part of the island, an area somewhat sheltered from the typical meltemi gusts, quite practical on windy days. It is a good place if you want to get away from it all and just… Read more »
Ftelia is a very quiet beach, as is usual in the northern part of the island. This spot, where you could get away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches in the south, has no formal visitor infrastructure, so take anything you may need: equipment, snacks and drinks. A more comfortable option is Alemagou, a laid back yet tasteful boho bar and restaurant on… Read more »
A boat day trip to unspoiled Rhenia will make you wonder whether you shall gaze upon such magnificent varied hues of blue ever again. A boat trip is the perfect way to experience the most amazing shades, from the dark deep water tones to the transparent colors near the shore. The island is uninhabited and sheltered from the typical strong northern meltemi winds. There are… Read more »
Even though its white façade and golden domes are easily recognizable, it surprises us to learn that travelers miss a visit to this cathedral and go only to St Basil’s. It is quite interesting to learn that this magnificent religious building was torn down during communist era, only to be rebuilt some decades ago. Its interiors are as magnificent as the building seen from the… Read more »
This 18th century landmark building and iconic theater in Moscow is legendary and praised internationally. Its ballet dancers are considered the best in the world and a refrence in this art. Home to masters like Nureyev and Baryshnikov, attending a performance at the Bolshoi could be an experience of a lifetime if you fancy ballet; be aware that programs are usually long. Another option is… Read more »
This 16th century convent complex and Maiden’s Monastery was declared World Heritage by Unesco years ago. Different from other monasteries’ fates, the Novodevichy has been very well preserved probably due to the noble background of ladies who were sent there. It holds one of the most impressive collections of icons, and you should not miss the Smolensky Cathedral and its impressive frescoes, as well as… Read more »
This flea market goes back to the 17th century and still is one of the largest in Eastern Europe. Traders from the whole Russia come to this lively market where you can find all sorts of crafts, souvenirs and memorabilia. Faux furs and typical Russian fur cap called ushanka, bijous with stones from the Baltic sea, souvenirs, objects from the Soviet era, decor items, war… Read more »
If you enjoy the history of space explorations, as well as the race that characterized the fierce competition between superpowers in the Cold War do not miss a visit to this museum. It has not only relics from old times but also rockets, satellites and astronaut costumes. Special exhibitions on solar system programs, space walks and spaceships are on site, as well as a movie… Read more »
On Sundays, many Bogota streets are converted into pedestrian and cycle only areas, and cars, buses and motorbikes give way to pedestrians and bikes. Curiously, Bogota was one of the first of the large cities to adopt this urban scheme of entertainment, later followed by so many others around the world. Surveys show that ¼ of the city’s population enjoys Sunday Biking, or simply going… Read more »
We are usually intrigued to hear travelers miss a visit to Santuario Nuestra Señora del Carmen, the official name of this beautiful and gothic church. Conveniently located in La Candelaria’s city center, the religious temple is not as old as you might expect, built in early 20th Century. It combines the gothic Florentine architecture with Arabic and Byzantine touches, making its interior quite unique and… Read more »
The Mercado de las Pulgas de Usaquén is one of the nicest flea markets in Bogota. Very conveniently located near Zonas T and G, it is a bustling spot for Colombian’s on Sunday afternoons, not only for the many diverse stalls selling a wide array of objects typical of flea markets, but also for its artistic scene and colorful sights and scents. The high quality… Read more »
Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) draws in the most visitors, but do not skip a visit to the nearby Museo Botero. The Botero Museum is part of the complex of Banco de la Republica’s museum and is dedicated to Colombias most famous contemporary artist, Botero. He is native of another city, Medellin, and donated many of his art pieces to be displayed in Bogota. Admire… Read more »
This market is an authentic Bogotana experience. You will unlikely find many visitors around, as it is truly a local point of interest. There is nothing fanciful or upscale about Paloquemao Market, yet the abundant variety of fruits, vegetables and flower stalls, where Bogotanos actually go to shop and trade, is impressive. Exotic and tropical fruits, vegetables, produce from the Caribbean and Pacific coast and… Read more »
If you want to experience a less hectic side of Cartagena, head across the old city to trendy Getsemani neighborhood, a diverse area with rich cultural heritage and a favorite hangout for locals. We walked around during the day taking in the welcoming smiles of some of the locals and enjoying the eclectic street art. Calle de la Sierpe was originally home to the 2010… Read more »
