Lake District Landscape
Photo by: Eugene Regis, Creative Commons

Lake District is located in North West England and is also termed as the Lakeland or The Lakes. It is world famous due to its mountains or fells and its lakes. Other visitors simply want to have a feel of the place that is frequently included in the masterpieces of William Wordsworth and the other so-called Lake Poets.

The focal point of the district is the Lake District National Park, which is one of the 14 National Parks located in UK. It can be found in one of the hilly portions of England, Cumbria. Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England is found here. Other mountains located in the area are Helvellyn, Great End, Catstycam, Nethermost Pyke, Fairfield, Great Gable, High Street, and Crinkle Crags among others. The lakes here include: Ullswater, Windermere, Crummock water, Devoke Water, Buttermere, Elterwater, Hayeswater, Loweswater and many others. But it has only one true lake and that is Bassenthwaite Lake.

This tourist destination has a lot to offer. There are several activities that can be done here. Visitors can fish, do mountain climbing, and involve themselves in cycling, canoeing and kayaking. They can also check out museums, churches, activity centers and heritage sites. For those fond of water sports, Lake District is the ideal place to tour. Within the vicinity itself are several retail shops, restaurants, hotels, bed and breakfast, and even motor home rentals are available.

Also visited in the place is its wide array of wildlife. Some of the species in Lake District are exclusive to Britain. There’s the red squirrel, the golden eagle, and two of the few carnivorous plants in UK namely the butterwort and sundew.

Beatrix Potter, whose life was made into a biopic film, with Hollywood celebrities Renee Zellwegger and Ewan McGregor played at, once settled at Hill Top farm in Lake District. Lord Tennyson, Thomas Carlyle, Sir Walter Scott, Henry Crabb Robinson, Percy Bysshe Shelley and other notable poets or writers found some connection with nature in Lake District. This is evident with some of their major masterpieces.

Seto Sea, the Inland Sea of Japan
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Known as the Seto Sea, the Inland Sea of Japan is the body of water which separates the three main islands of the country, Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Not only does it serve as an international waterway that connects the Sea of Japan to the Pacific Ocean, it is a valuable sea transport to industrial parts in the Kansai region because of its connection to Osaka Bay. The waterway runs from east to west in about 450 km and has a width of 15 to 55 km from south to north. An approximate of 3,000 islands can be found here separated by the eastern, central, and western parts.

The Inland sea is a rich well of biodiversity with more than 500 marine species inhabiting its waters. Just some of the popular faunas are the ayu, the finless porpoise, horseshoe crabs, and even great white sharks. When it comes to industry, the Inland sea is considered as a very productive section in modern Japan. The primary industries surrounding its waters are from the cities of Kurashiki, Fukuyama, Ube, and Kobe. Tourism helps the area because of the mixture of the sea’s refreshing mix with Japan’s climate and picturesque landscape.

The coastal area of the sea, in particular, is one very popular choice for tourists whenever they visit Japan because of the unique beauty of its waters. The length of the coastal area named Setonaikai National Park, considered as one of the oldest parks in the country. The Itsukushima Shrine also found in the area of Inland sea is a member of UNESCO’s list of Heritage Sites around the world. More famous tourist centers are Kyoto and Tokyo with their appealing metropolitan structures and Shodoshima, also known as the “island of olives”.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus
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On your way to Greece, do visit the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. This is one of the visitor hotspots, so make sure you put this in your list. The reason behind this is that the Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a stone theatre, which can house around 5,000 people at one time. Just imagine holding the entire population of an island in Greece in one place! This venue is where the yearly festivals in Athens are celebrated in. Since the Greeks are very fond of mythology, there is also a story behind the erection of this place.

Did you know that Herodes Atticus commissioned this amphitheater in memory of his wife? In his day, erecting something is the form of undying love for someone; so do not think that only the rich and the greedy could do that. The Odeon used to have a wooden roof but since it was built in 161 AD, that roof would have gone to ashes by now.

As visitors, you also think how you will get to the site right? Well you could take the bus since there is a limited space for parking should you rent your own car. Plus if you do get a slot, the Odeon is a little far which you have to walk so basically taking the bus would be perfect. Not only would you be not thinking about your rented car’s safety but you will get to enjoy the view on your way to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Just like any place, visitors are often guided with house rules when they visit a certain place. In the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, children below 6 years of age are not permitted to enter. Aside form this; smoking, drinking, and eating are not allowed.

Athens Famous Landmarks

Ushiku Daibutsu
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If you think the Statue of Liberty is big, you will be amazed at how big the Ushiku Daibutsu is. It is located in Ibaraki prefecture in Japan. The name means “Great Buddha in Ushiku.” There are other big Buddha statues in Japan but this one is probably the biggest one made of bronze. And maybe not just in Japan but in the whole world. It stands at 394 feet from the base to the top of the head. It is bronze plated and is located outdoors. People also call it Ushiku Arcadia.

If you think you will just stare at the statue and not do anything else, you are wrong because this gigantic estate has rooms inside. It has four floors and you can go to each floor using an elevator. One of them is full of windows, which serves as an observation deck.

Even before entering the structure, you will be amazed at the beautiful scenery of flowers, plants, and a clear pond full of different kinds of fish.

When you enter the first floor there is a big cauldron of incense, and on that spot, a single shaft of light shines form above, providing a tranquil setting.

The second floor is more of a room that they built as a study. The third floor is filled with 3000 small Buddha statues.

And finally, the fourth floor is the observation deck where you can see the view outside through the several widows.

After Ushiku Daibutsu, you will surely feel relaxed experiencing the beauty, peace, and serenity in one place.

Inside Salisbury Cathedral
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Salisbury cathedral is an Anglican cathedral found in Salisbury, England. Salisbury cathedral is also known as Cathedral of Saint Mary. Back in 2008, the cathedral celebrated its 750th anniversary. It was in the same year when they decided to do some relighting works in the cathedral and the cathedral won the Lighting Design award in the heritage level or category. The new statue of Canon Ezra was also installed in the west front of the cathedral. The cathedral is known to posses the world’s oldest working clock from 1386 AD. The clock has no face because all clock way back then rang on an hourly basis. The clock was originally placed in a bell tower that was demolished way back in 1792 and they had already forgotten about the clock until the year 1929. It is said that the clock was found sitting in the attic. They decided to restore the clock in 1956. There was some remedial work done on the clock in 2007.

The cathedral also holds one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta. Magna Carta is also known as the Great Charter. One part of this charter gives the right to allow appeals against any unlawful imprisonment. This charter indeed created much controversy back then.

The cathedral is mainly the subject for John Constable’s famous paintings. Back in 1825, as a gesture of appreciation for the Bishop of Salibury known as John Fisher, John Constable decided to include the bishop and his wife in the painting or canvass. After two centuries, the paintings only had minor changes or discoloration. William Golding also used the cathedral as subject for his novel known as The Spire. In the famous Sarum novel of Edward Rutherfurd, he used the cathedral as a human settlement. Indeed the cathedral played a vital role in many occasions.

Kom Ombo Temple
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In Kom Ombo, you will see a temple that aims to serve 2 sets of gods at the same time. The Kom Ombo Temple has a double design with 2 entrances and duplicate rooms. The south part of the double temple is offered for gods Sobek (crocodile god of fertility and creation), Hathor (goddess of love, joy and motherhood) and Knhonsu (moon god). The north part is dedicated to Panebtawy (lord of 2 lands), Tasenetnofret (Good sister) and Horus the elder (Falcon god).

The need to build a double structure for the gods is opened up because according to Egyptian mythology, Sobek is an enemy of Horus because of its alliance with the wicked god Seth. In order to appease both alliances, the people of the place built the double Kom Ombo temple. The south part is full of crocodile representations because it is offered for Sobek. The north part is full of falcon representations as a sign of reverence to Horus.

The structure is filled with duplicate architecture. There are 2 courts, 2 colonnades, 2 hypostyle halls, and 2 sanctuaries. Although some of the original items and carvings in the temple are no longer present today, you would still appreciate the unique Egyptian style in the place. Each of the courts before has each set of priests will have its own worship and prayer rituals.

The temple is a brainchild of Ptolemy VI Philometer and was continued by Ptolemy XII building the exterior and interior hypostyle walls full with representations of surgical tools. Due to natural weathering, the temple was slowly disintegrating in the 18th century but due to the efforts of De Morgan he renovated the place circa 1893.

In ancient Egypt, crocodiles were considered as gods. People offer sacrifices to the once vast population of crocodiles in the Nile River. The temple displays several crocodile mummies found near the place.

La Scala Opera House
Photo by: Bernt Rostad, Creative Commons

Visiting Italy, especially Milan, a must see is the La Scala Opera House. When you reserve tickets for the evening, do come in your best formal wear. A lot of visitors would prefer to visit different places in Italy wearing just their jeans and shirt and their sturdy boots. Well, make this an exception since there is a given protocol in Milan as to what clothes to wear at the opera house.

The La Scala Opera House has been in operation since 1778. December is quite important and memorable for the people here since that is the feast day of their saint thus marking the start of the season for plays and ballets. Everything must end at the strike of twelve, so women can feel like Cinderella as they leave the magnificently built La Scala Opera House.

Opera may not be everyone’s liking, but for you to be able to witness and experience how the evening shows were intricately put together for the delight of the audience, now that will remain in your heart. It also is a good place to get your photo taken since La Scala Opera House is so famous around the world. You may even record some parts of the play especially when you are seated in the boxes where wealthy people choose to stay. You call these boxes the palchi. Generations ago, if you do not belong to the upper crust of society who could afford to watch at the palchi, you are going to sit at loggione.

Front gate of the Tokyo Imperial Palace
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One very important place for the Japanese is the Imperial Palace, Japan, which serves as the main residence of the Emperor of Japan and his family. Located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, the palace is like a park-like residence. The palace grounds including with the gardens, covers an area of 7.41 square kilometers. The current imperial palace covers the past retrenchments of the Edo castle where the citadels of Honmaru, Nishinomaru, Sannomaru, Ninomaru, and the Fukiage Gardens once existed. The Nishinomaru area is also used for some imperial court happenings while the imperial residence of the emperor and empress is found in the Fukiage gardens.

Some parks found in the Imperial Palace grounds are open to the public. One of these is the Kitanamaru Park which is the former Edo castle’s enceinte and is located to the north part of the palace’s perimeter. Outer gardens of the imperial palace in the south are also open to tourists where the bronze statue of Prince Kitashirakawa Yoshihisa can be seen. The present imperial palace is now constructed having interconnected modern structures after it was damaged by fire during World War II. The palace was reconstructed on 1968 with steel-framed concrete designed in a modernist way but still prepped with classic architectural accents unique to the Japanese like the large hipped roofs and beams.

Basically, the Kyuden of Imperial Palace, Japan is used as a receiving place for state guests and also as an official holding area for state ceremonies of official functions. The Pine chamber or the Matsu-no-Ma is the throne room wherein the emperor together with the prime minister and other ambassadors usually has their meetings. Other remarkable buildings in the Imperial Palace are the east Garden, the Tokagakudo music hall, the Ninomaru Garden where the trees symbolizing each of the prefecture in Japan can be found, and the Suwa no chaya which is a teahouse for the Imperial family.

Tokyo Famous Landmarks

Profile of Tokyo National Museum
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If you want to know more about the culture and history of Japan, you should go to Tokyo National Museum or TNM. You will be awed at the number of artworks and artifacts that are preserved and displayed in this museum. To date, it has about 110,000 different objects and 87 of these are considered as Japan’s National Treasures.

This is very accessible because it is just located in Tokyo, specifically in Ueno Park in Taito. Although the museum mostly collects Japanese-related objects, they also have some collections of Asian arts and artefacts.

The museum has five exhibition buildings—the Honkan, Toyokan, Hyokeikan, Heiseikan, and Horyu-ji Homotsukan.

Honkan, or the Japanese Gallery, houses Japan’s artworks from 10,000 B.C. up to the latter years of the 1800s. You will see here different arts related to traditional Japanese culture and customs such as Samurai, the art of tea ceremony, Buddhism, and Kabuki and Noh.

The second gallery, Toyokan, is an Asian gallery. It has different art works from different Asian countries, which includes China, Southeast Asia, Korea, Middle East, and India, and Egypt.

The third gallery, Hyokeikan, this is open for temporary exhibitions and other kinds of events. It is dedicated to the late Emperor Taisho, and it showcases the Western influence in architecture in Meiji era.

Heiseikan, the fourth gallery, traces Japan’s archaeological history using artefacts. It is also open for special exhibitions. It includes a collection of pottery, stone tools, helmets and armours, and so on that date back as early as 10,000 B.C.

And last but not the least, the Horyu-ji Homostukan, the fifth gallery houses the Horyu-ji treasures given to the Imperial family. In total, there are 319 treasures inside this gallery. You can also view all these collections of treasures on the second floor using a computer. You can also eat if at the restaurant located on the ground floor of this building.

For more information, you can visit the official Tokyo National Museum website.

Tokyo Famous Landmarks

Photo by: lostajy, Creative Commons

Visitors like you should not leave Rome without visiting the Castel Sant’Angelo. What does it have that millions of visitors each year never fail to shed a tear for its remarkable beauty? This place should be on top of your list when you are visiting Italy since history is so thick with mystery as well as glamour. Why mystery? Did you know that the Castel Sant’Angelo was built as a mausoleum before it became a fortress? It became a fortress and a prison cell, used by popes during the 14th Century.

Soon enough, when the Popes converged at the Vatican, the Castel was turned into a museum. This attracts visitors from around the world to witness its uniqueness. You know St. Michael the Archangel right? His famous statue bearing the mighty sword is found there, according to legend, the archangel was reported to have appeared on top of the Castel some generations ago.

Visitors from all over the world do come to experience Italy in a way that they have never experienced in any other place. It has been used as the backdrop in the earlier films, and even the Operas. When you speak of Rome, you talk about the Castel Sant’Angelo. Do make sure to pack some extra party clothes since this museum by day turns into a happening place by nighttime. There are different live bands and overflowing drinks for everyone to joy. Aside from trendy clothes, your stay will also cost you a little more since the food is heavenly. Nevertheless, everything you do in Italy is worth it.

Rome Famous Landmarks

Shanghai-Old City
Photo by: Eugene Regis, Creative Commons

The taste of ancient China is what makes Shanghai Old City a favorite place among local and foreign tourists. Before World War II, this place was dominated by Chinese businessmen.

The culture of China is never lost in this place. It is a reminder of the day when the walls of the city were brought down in favor of free trade in favor of the visiting foreign businessmen traders. This old city (or sometimes called “Old Town”) is situated at the west of Huangpu River and south of Nanjing Road.

You can safely walk by foot in the city streets and observe the way the people interact with each other. Visit the different shops found along the crooked streets of Fangbang Zhong Lu.

Ask a native to bring you to the local antique shop and you will be surprised at the great repository of antiques in varying sizes. You can haggle with the seller to reach at an agreeable price. As an antique buyer, an eye for detail and knowledge about craftsmanship of the Chinese goes a long way.

Your visit to Shanghai Old City is not complete without tasting Chinese cuisine at the Yu Garden and the Huxington Tea House. These 2 places are known to provide classic epicurean eating experiences.

The great thing with Shanghai Old City is that when you go into the deepest corners of the place, there is a sense of synchronized chaos. It’s as if you travel back in time, when the modern things we know of today seem out of place.

ST. PETERSBURG – CHURCH OF THE SAVIOUR ON SPILLED BLOOD
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The Church of the Savior on Blood is in St. Petersburg, Russia. The church was previously known as “Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ” and “Church on Split Blood”. The “blood” in the name of the church refers to the Emperor Alexander II of Russia who was assassinated on this site.

The construction of the church began in the year 1883 during the reign of Emperor Alexander III as an honor for his father Emperor Alexander II. There were delays in building the church, but in the year 1907 construction was completed. The church is very close to the Griboedov Canal, with a history beyond the construction:

Emperor Alexander II was passing through this area and a conspirator threw a grenade at the emperor but missed. Within in a few minutes he threw another bomb at the emperor where the conspirator has been killed along with the emperor during the explosion. Later the church was built on the same site where the emperor died.

The church is a unique construction among the other cathedrals in St. Petersburg and it is a combination of Neoclassical and Baroque styles. The church has over 7500 sqm of mosaics and the interiors of the church has been designed by Alfred Alexandrovich Parland, Mikhail Vrubel, Mikhail Nesterov and Viktor Vasnetsov. The ceilings and walls feature a number of mosaics displaying the Biblical scenes.

Nowadays the church is recognized as the Museum of Mosaics and is a major tourist attraction in St. Petersburg.

Yakushi-ji Temple
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In Japan, there are numerous temples and shrines located in the Kansai area, specifically in Nara and Kyoto, the oldest cities and former capitals of Japan. In Nara, you will find seven of the greatest temples and shrines in Japan that are included in UNESCO’s list of “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” One of these is the Yakushiji Temple.

This temple used by the Hosso School, one faction of Japanese Buddhism. It is a very popular temple not just in Japan but for many of those who visit frequently. The temple is dedicated to Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha who was originally from China and he was the one who named the temple.

You can visit several other halls or buildings inside the Yakushiji Temple because it is a multifaceted. You can go to the main hall or Kondo, the lecture hall or Kodo, the East Hall or Toindo, and the East and West Pagodas. The pagodas are important aspects of a Buddhist temples.

In the Main Hall, you will see the Yakushi Triad statues. These are the statues of Yakushi Nyorai, Nikko, and Gakko. Nikko and Gakko are the Bosatsus of the Sun and the Moon, respectively. Originally, these statues were covered in gold but because of a fire accident that happened in the temple, the statues now were blackened.

You can also see the masterpieces of the temple inside the Higashisobo or the East Dormitories. Several artworks related to the temple have been placed in Higashisobo. This is where you can buy souvenirs you can bring back home to your friends and family that show great aspects of the temples.

Windsor Castle
Photo by: Alan Light, Creative Commons

Windsor Castle is located in Berkshire England. It is the largest inhabited castle in the world from the time of William the Conqueror. The castle floor area is approximately 484,000 square feet and is approximately 44,965 in square meters. This Castle is recognized as one of the official homes or residences of the British monarch. Queen Elizabeth II is known to have spent many weekends of the year in Windsor castle. The castle is also used for both state and private use. Most of the Kings and Queens of England, Great Britain and Commonwealth realms have direct influence on the construction and evolution of the said castle. This castle serves as their garrison fortress, home, official palace and sometimes their prison. When the country has been at peace, it is said that the castle was expanded and was enhance but during the war, the said castle was fortified.

Inside the proximity of the castle is where you may find the so-called Home Park. This Home Park is comprised of parkland and two working farms. Within this property, you will find estate cottages. Employees mainly occupy these cottages. Frogmore estate is also found in the Home Park. Frogmore House and Garden are open to public for viewing on certain days of each year the remaining part of the Home Park is classified as “private,” meaning no visitors allowed.

In the Home Park located at the north of the castle stands a private swimming pool. Eton College is located approximately half mile north from the castle across River Thames.

Way back in 1660 the restoration of the castle begun. Prince Charles II did much work to restore and refurnish the castle from the damages that it has undergone during the civil war. During this time Versailles was being constructed in France.

Ibn Tulun Mosque
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Ibn Tulun Mosque holds the record of the oldest and largest mosque in Cairo City with its original form intact. It is holds the title of 3rd largest mosque with overall area of 26, 318 square meters. This structure is a representative of the Islamic belief still preserved in Egypt today.

The mosque is constructed in a local hill named Gebel Yashkur (Hill of Thanksgiving) with local claims that Noah’s Ark rested here after the great flood instead of Mount Ararat mentioned in the Bible.

The architecture of the building is inspired by Samarran art usually connected with Abbassid production. Its original structure has an ablution fountain for washing between the inner and outer walls. It was destroyed by fire in 986 AD but restored by later management.

The mosque is enclosed with walls about 19 meters thick surmounted with unique crenellation. The top of the Tulun walls feature repetitive Abassid patterns. It has a minaret that serves as an original landmark of Cairo because of its unique structure made of brick.

Inside the mosque is the prayer hall with wooden roof with accents that were added during the Mamluk period. The whole place is full of Islamic influences with arcades that have Qur’an inscriptions running approximately 2 km. Adding to the Noah’s ark claim, the temple declare that the wall frieze planks were actual parts of the said vessel. The window grills in the place is filled with meticulous carvings of Stucco patterns.

The start of the building construction was in 876 AD under the commission of Ahmad ibn Tulun. The Islamic structure was finished in 879 AD over al-Qata’i (Tulunic Capital of Egypt) during Islamic Egypt under Abbasid dynasty. The glory of Tulunid reign in the place lasted only for about 26 years and somehow affected the once-warm affection on the façade.

Horyuji Temple
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Horyu Gakumonji or the Horyuji temple is a Buddhist temple situated in Ikaruga, in the Prefecture of Nara. It is also called the temple of the Flourishing Law because the architecture serves as both a monastery and a seminary.

The story of Horyuji’s history is engraved on the back of the halo of the Buddha statue of Yakusi Nyorai that can be seen in the eastern side of the main hall of the temple. According to the story chronicled there, emperor Yowei was the one who first vowed to build the temple as his form of recovery prayer for the healing Buddha. However, he died even before he can fulfill this and the construction of the temple was then continued by the Empress Suiko and his son Prince Shotoku. At present, the temple is comprised of two areas namely the Sai-in of the west and To-in of the east. The west part of the architecture holds the Kondo or the Golden Hall as well as the temple’s famous five-story pagoda.

The octagonal Yumedono Hall or Hall of Dreams can be found in the To-in area. The Horyuji temple also holds some lecture halls, libraries, dining halls, and monks’ quarters. Even though the reconstructed buildings are influenced by the architectural designs of the Eastern Han and Northern Wei of China as well as the Three Kingdoms of Korea, its five story pagoda possess designs that are unique to the style of Horyuji. Regarded as one of the revered two oldest architecture in the world, the pagoda’s base houses the enshrined fragment of Buddha’s bone protected by the four sculptures signifying his life which faces the north, east, south, and west directions.

Unique historical cultural treasures of Japan can be found throughout the 187,000 square meter grounds of the Horyuji temple. More than 2,300 significant articles and structures are housed in the temple including 90 items that are considered as pieces of National Treasures of the country. Due to its function as a significant architecture housing Buddhist culture, it was the first in Japan to be chosen by UNESCO as part of their list of World Heritage on 1993.

Graves niches inside the Catacomb
Photo by: GerardM, Creative Commons

Visiting Italy is like taking a pilgrimage because of its status as the Cradle of Christianity. Italy houses the Vatican, the Papal Seat. You will be humbled at how remarkable the etchings on the wall are (although some visitors would term it as graffiti). What you will see on the walls inside the Catacombs of St. Callixtus are the scenes of the early part of Christianity.

Little do visitors know that the sarcophagus is not there for show, but they actually tell a story. You will find preserved etchings on the wall, which will surprise you when you see it. It is just like going back in time in the damp and cold feeling you will experience since the Catacombs of St. Callixtus are found several floors deep.

Callixtus was the Pope during the building of these catacombs, and he was also one of the 16 Popes laid to rest in this place. Do bring your cameras but let it be known that whenever you capture these places, you will never know what image may come with the place. You see, this is also considered as one of the places to see and feel ghosts. This is not for the faint-hearted, but if you want to relive what happened at the dawn of time, this place is a must see.

Rome Famous Landmarks

Sergiyev-Posad Church
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Golden Ring is a circle of cities located to the northeast of Moscow. Previously, the region was known as Zalesye. These cities have played a key role in development of the Russian Orthodox Church and these cities chronicle the historical events of Russia.

These circles of cities are known as “open air museums” with its fine example of Russian architecture. It features churches, cathedrals, and monasteries belonging to the period of 12th-18th century. The cities in the Golden Ring are Sergiyev Posad, Pereslavl-Zalesskiy, Vladimir, Rostov Velikiy, Uglich, Alexandrov, Gus-Khrustalny, Ivanovo, Yaroslavl, Kostroma, Rybinsk and Suzdal.

Seriyev Poasad
This city was established in the 15th century and it features one of Russia’s greatest monasteries. The city has a population of about 231,158 and tourism is the main source of income for this city.

Pereslavl-Zalessky
Pereslavl-Zalessky town is situated in Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia. This town is located close to the Lake Pleshcheyevo and has a population of about 72,321. The town was discovered around 1152 and it features a number of historical constructions among them the notable constructions are “The Pereslavl Arboretum”, “The Museum of Steam Engines”, “Museum of Flat Irons”, “Museum–Estate” and “The Museum of Kettles”.

Rostov
It is one of Russia’s oldest towns and a major tourist place. The city is famous for a number of churches, monasteries, bell-towers and towered walls.

Yaroslavl
Yaroslavl is a historical city and UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. The major constructions here are Russian Orthodox churches, Baptist churches, Lutheran Churches and Mosques belonging to the period of 12th-18th centuries.

Kostroma
Kostroma is a historical city with a population of about 436,502. The major landmarks here are built in between 10th century to 17th century and the major constructions here include the cathedrals, towers and walls.

Vladimir
Vladimir is one of Russia’s major cities with a population of about 405,392. It is a historical city and two of the cities cathedrals are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

City of Olympia
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The first thing that enters your mind when you see Olympia, Greece is of course the Olympics. It is where the games started thousands of years ago, which until now, the tradition lives on. A lot of visitors definitely put Olympia, Greece in their travel list since the place is so beautiful and grand to miss. Until now, the ceremony of the Olympic Games continue to happen every four years not anymore touching base at Olympia, Greece but still keeping close to the tradition.

Visitors of course love taking pictures and taking them home for their friends to see. In Olympia, Greece they can do so many things aside posing from behind ruins – they can visit theaters, museums and Greek buildings. One other attraction for visitors is the Olympic flame, which has traveled all over the world originating in Greece. The flame is lit through the reflection of the sun’s rays that bounces of a parabolic mirror. Visitors, at the first sight of this are amazed and curious regarding the story of the flame that appears impossible to extinguish.

Do include Olympia in your schedule since this is one place you need to visit to fully appreciate the meaning of sportsmanship that has been passed on through the years. It would also be great to take photos of you throwing the imaginary discus, which everyone knows is the symbol associated with the games.

If you are wondering if you should wear anything close to the Spartan robes to be able to be in the groove with the Olympic fever, try not to spend time on that. Any light material fabric would be great for your trip to Greece.

Westminster Abbey
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The collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster is always and is commonly referred to as Westminster Abbey. It is a Gothic church in Westminster, London. This church is located on the west side of the Palace of Westminster. It is where the coronation and burial ceremony of the English are usually held. Westminster Abbey is ruled or governed by the Dean and Chapter of Westminster as proclaimed by the Royal Charter of the Queen Elizabeth I way back in 1560. Under the jurisdiction of the Sovereign, the place was also created as Collegiate Church of St. Peter Westminster and Royal Peculiar.

According to tradition and history, the Westminster Abbey was first reported by Sulcard around 1080. People believe that The Abbey has first been founded in Mellitus time. This place was the site for the last coronation prior to the Norman’s Invasion.

Harrison & Harrison created the organ in The Abbey in 1937. There were four manuals and 84 speaking stops. The place was first used during the coronation of King George VI. Some pipe works from the old or previous Hill organ was readjusted and was fixed to also incorporate a new scheme to the instrument. The two organs designed by John Loughborough Pearson way back in nineteenth century was re-instated and was colored in 1959. Under the direction of Simon Preston, Harrison & Harrison enlarged the organ to include additional Lower Choir Organ and Bombarde Organ. The new or current instrument now possesses five manuals and 109 speaking stops. In 2006, Harrison & Harrison refurbished the console of the organ.

Since the coronation in 1066, both King Harold and William the Conqueror, all English and British monarchs have been crowned in the Abbey except for Edward V and Edward VIII who did not undergo a coronation ceremony.

London Famous Landmarks

Esna Temple by the Nile River
Photo by: Paul Mannix, Creative Commons

Lovers of Egyptian mythology will enjoy this ancient shrine located near the Nile River. The Esna Temple or Temple of Khnum is a sacred shrine at Esna, Egypt dedicated to several gods primarily to Khnum (god of creation and the Nile River) but also to Heka (god of magic), Horus (god of victory) and Neith (god of war).

Esna Temple is built in Ancient Latapolis, about 485 mi south of Cairo. The roof of the building holds an interesting representation of ancient Egyptian astronomy. It supported by 6 sturdy columns decorated with floral patterns of which still holds faint original color.

Hieroglyphs are all over the place from the roof to the walls. You can see representations of Egyptian kings giving cryptographic praise to Khnum. There is a statue of goddess Menhyt in the courtyard. The oldest part of the building, hypostyle hall has doors that are used as entrance and exits of Egyptian priests.

The artifacts and hieroglyphs of the temple are not results of one-time constructions. Tuthmosis III erected the building during the 18th dynasty but Romans and Greeks also incorporated their art influence on the site later resulting to mixed art forms all over the structure.

The site is drowned in its own debris because of old age and natural weathering which adds to its ancient beauty. The interesting view in this temple is complimented by the Nile River where cruise boats can park. The place is accessible to the nearest market which is great for your shopping of local cuisine and goodies.

The Egyptian authorities are constantly renovating the Esna Temple to make sure that it will stand for the future generations to admire. After all, Egypt will not be as magical tourist spot if it were not for its well-preserved artifacts.

Galleria Borghese front steps
Photo by: maccosta, Creative Commons

“I suoi occhi brillavano di felicità.” That sensual sounding sentence means “her eyes twinkle or shine with such sheer happiness.” This is exactly the expression you will get when you give your special someone that surprise plane ticket to Italy. It is such a romantic place to visit, and since you are thinking of where to go, you better include this in your itinerary. Did you know that this place happens to be one of the favorite destinations of visitors when they visit Italy?

Just mention Italy’s Art Haven and you shall be directed to the Galleria Borghese, an art gallery, wherein the art collections range from the famous sculptures of Roman gods and goddesses and masterpiece paintings. You will enjoy traveling back in time when you see Venus in her full grandiose or better yet have you will be bewildered when you see the world renowned Bernini’s Apollo and Daphne. There are many collections to mention coming from different artists, which are gladly shared by one of Italy’s royalty – the Family of the Borghese.

You cannot take any photos while you are inside the art gallery. Your camera’s flash can pretty much do nothing to destroy the materials used in the paintings, but the ban is implemented to make sure that the copyright of the different art pieces are not duplicated, replicated or even manipulated. Treat your visit inside the Galleria Borghese as an experience that you would capture with your eyes only and cherished within your heart.

The Galleria Borghese also has a fantastic manicured lawn where you could take snapshots of yourself and your company as a souvenir that you have walked through this magnificent estate. Do book in advance, like three months or so, since it could only house around 300 visitors for 2 hours.

Rome Famous Landmarks

Byodo-in Temple
Photo by: ajari, Creative Commons

The Byodo-In Temple in Kyoto is just one of the very few temples in Japan that had survived from the Heian era. It was originally constructed on 1502 by Fujiwara Yorimichi to serve as a villa. But on 1503, his regents constructed another feature called the Phoenix Hall or Amida Hall which made it turned into a Buddhist temple. The Phoenix Hall is the sole remaining piece of architecture that can be traced down to the vanished Pure Land sect of Buddhism belief. As seen from the still surviving paintings illustrating the Pure Land, there is a great probability that the Byodo-in serves as the literal representation of the Western Paradise of the Buddhists.

The Pure Land belief is a sector of Buddhism’s Mayahana Branch which believes that people should strive to give enlightenment not only for themselves but for all living beings. People from the Mahayana branch believe on the existence of the Bodhisattvas, beings possessing infinite karma and compassion for others, who have given their vows not to enter the world of Nirvana until all sentient creatures are saved from the dreadful samsara or the world of suffering. One of the most famous Bodhisattvas was Amida in whom the lofty Phoenix Hall was built for. The belief in Amida is concentrated on the faith of an instant death in which he descends to earth and carries the unfortunate soul to the Western Paradise or Buddhist Heaven. This Byodo-in Temple is said to be the replica of this Western Paradise with its kidney-shaped pond and the golden Amida statue.

The Byodo-in Temple is found in Uji that can be accessed through either the Keihan-Uji line or JR Nara line. Travel from Kyoto probably takes 25 minutes by local train and 15 minutes by rapid train. The temple is just a 10 minute walk from the stations then. Being one of the few surviving pieces from the Heian era, the Byodo-in was added by UNESCO on 2004 in their UNESCO World Heritage List.

Cinque Terre
Photo by: chuntera, Creative Commons

As part of your Italian trip, do include the Cinque Terre. This is such a magnificent place located along the rugged terrain of the Italian Riviera. Feel free to experience what it felt back then: enjoy the purity and the simplicity when you stay there. The place has this rustic feel, especially the houses since they are situated on a cliff, which, according to several visitors who have found their way there, is like life living in a different world since all you would need are just your basic necessities.

Cinque Terre means Five Lands in English. These were created in a way that there is a certain point where the modern world is separated from the old ways. You see, any form of transportation stops at the border. You better pack your sturdy boots since you will definitely have to traverse steep and low paths to go to Cinque Terre. Do not be frustrated since all your huffing and puffing would mean a lot the moment you reach the Via Dell’Amore. Now that is such a romantic name, and it also means the Lover’s Walk.

Visitors really take time to visit this beautiful land filled with a breathtaking view, most especially at night when all you can see is the water, the moon and the countless stars that smile down on you. Cinque Terre is such a perfect honeymoon place after all. While you are arranging your trip here, be prepared to enjoy the seafood this place has to offer. Aside from the seafood, don’t forget the pasta since basil grows so abundantly in this area. You’ll enjoy crabs delight in the afternoon and that sensuous pesto pasta with a bottle of wine at night.

Doges’ Palace, Venice
Photo by: Kieran Lynam, Creative Commons

Benvenuto a Italia! For that never-ending smile the moment you get the news that you are going to have a lavish vacation, warm wishes and Welcome to Italy! Now that you are here, why not visit the hottest visitor destinations that speak of the magnificence and the romance surrounding Italy. One must-visit spot is the Palazzo Ducale or the Doge’s Palace found in Venice.

To be able to appreciate the Venetian life, a must visit is the seat of government. This is the place where the courts are found. Which was then later on transferred to the city jail famously known as the Bridge of Sighs. A Doge is someone elected to a government post for the entirety of one’s life. An interesting note here is that everything was practically done for the Doge – his mails read, his phone calls answered and goes to him or goes out of him without the higher ups like him convene.

What the visitor’s love about the Doge’s Palace is the vast collection of paintings showing the past Doges at the Sala del Maggior Consiglio or otherwise known as the Great Council Hall. You need to take several snapshots of this extravagant creation that was built in the 9th Century through the consolidated work of sculptor and renowned architect Filippo Calendario.

Indeed, the Doge’s Palace is the first colossal infrastructure you will see the moment you reach Venice. More and more visitors each year never fail to visit Italy without including Venice in their itinerary. You are much more welcome to stay and wander around the ruins and enjoy the glory of Venice you only thought came alive through Shakespeare. You would also appreciate the type of architectural design present althroughout Doges’ Place which is called the Gothic.