7 of the World’s Most Interesting Museums

While some of these museums may have some art pieces in them, they’re focused on different historical objects. These are among the most-visited and interesting ones you’ll find across the world.

1. The Musical Instrument Museum, Brussels, Belgium

(photo by infomatique)

This museum was established originally to display instruments to students belonging to the nearby Brussels Royal Music Conservatory. It’s filled with an excellent instrument collection and the building itself is quite impressive. It’s an art nouveau structure which was constructed back in 1899. There’s a restaurant on the building’s top floor with a quaint terrace which provides spectacular views of Brussels.

2. The VasaMuseet, Stockholm, Sweden

(photo by wm_archiv)

The Vasa was a Swedish ship that sank in Stockholm Harbour in 1628 after sailing for less than a mile on its maiden voyage. The ship sat under the water for 333 years before being brought back to ground in 1961. The ship now sits on display in the fabulous VasaMuseet Museum, which is the most popular in Scandinavia visitor-wise.

3. The Egyptian Museum, Cairo, Egypt

(photo by zoonabar)

This wonderful museum is home to the world’s most complete collection of Egyptian artifacts. It features treasures King Tut’s tomb as well as a large collection of items from some of the nation’s famous Pharaohs. In total, there are more than 120,000 items on display. These include tiny statues and Egyptian mummies.

4. The Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo, Japan

(photo by ctsnow)

This museum sits in Ueno Park, and represents the first ever museum established in the country. It houses a wide collection of archaeological objects and Asian art. The museum is housed in a complex that has 5 separate buildings. You’ll see things such as ancient military armor and samurai swords along with decorative pieces including sculptures and screens.

5. The British Museum, London, England

(photo by mp4 )

This museum was established in 1753 by Parliament. There are some art pieces in the British Museum, but it’s probably more well known for the fantastic archeological collection on display. It houses the famous Rosetta stone as well as the Parthenon Sculptures. The architecture of the museum is also quite impressive and the Queen Elizabeth II Great Court is Europe’s biggest covered square.

6. The National Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C., USA

(photo by yotut)

This magnificent museum belongs to the Smithsonian and features the biggest collection of spacecraft and historic aircraft on the globe. It’s one of the world’s top-visited museums as well. You’ll find some fascinating items here such as the Wright brothers’ original airplane as well as the Spirit of St. Louis, which was flown by Charles Lindbergh. In addition, Apollo 11’s command module is on display.

7. The Lower East Side Tenement Museum, New York City, USA

(photo by mhowry )

This museum honors the plight of many immigrants who arrived in New York City many decades ago. The Tenement Museum is located in an old original New York City tenement building which was discovered late in the 1980s. Guides take you through the cramped and dark living spaces to show what the conditions were like for many immigrant families before New York implemented housing laws.

Portimao: An Excellent Base to Discover Portugal’s Algarve Region

One of the most popular areas of Portugal is undoubtedly the Algarve region in the south of the Nation. This beautiful area sits on the shores of the mighty Atlantic Ocean and is filled with numerous sandy beaches and picturesque towns and villages.
One of the largest towns in the area is Portimao. It has been known throughout the years as one of Portugal’s leading centers for sardine fishing and canning. You can still taste the fresh fish alongside the pier everyday when the fishing boats bring in their catch around noon hour.

 

(photo by glenbowman)

There are several outdoor restaurants located side by side where you can enjoy a salad, fresh grilled sardines and a cold beer or bottle of excellent local wine. During the 1970s, there were about 5 dozen fish-processing factories in the area. However, today, there is just one left.
It’s still a busy little town of about 45,000 people though it’s quite scenic, has some excellent shops, and features some of the best restaurants you can find anywhere in the country.
It’s not known as a major tourist town, but you’ll find that’s probably what makes it so charming. Portimao allows you to observe the local traditions and way of life while blending in seamlessly and soaking in the atmosphere.
It’s an ideal town to explore by foot and is also a great base for visiting other areas of the Algarve. If you rent a car and stay in local hotel, you’ll easily be able to visit the entire southern coast from east to west.
Along the way you’ll pass some fantastic villages, beaches, markets, landscapes, and towns. In fact, you don’t even have to rent a car to enjoy Portimao and the immediate surrounding area.
Nearby you’ll find a couple of popular beach resort areas. These are Praia da Rocha and Alvor. These are both situated on the Atlantic and offer several fine hotels in all price ranges.
They’re easy to walk from Portimao and there are numerous buses to take you there if you feel it’s a bit too far. Many people like to stay in these outskirt villages and visit Portimao for dining and shopping.
You can also head to Portimao to simply watch the world go by. There’s a huge riverbank park/square area right next to the harbor and close to the seafood restaurants. You’ll also find numerous outdoor cafes here where it appears some local residents love to spend most of their days.
If you visit the attractive town, one of the most popular sites is the Igreja Matriz. This is a wonderful church that was erected in the 13^th century, but was damaged during the huge earthquake that struck Portugal in 1755.
However, the Gothic portal still remains today. There are three aisles in the church which feature statues of saints which were saved from the original church. Portimao is quite a charming destination and is located in an excellent spot for those who just want to relax and enjoy the local beaches as well as those who want to explore the sights and sounds of the surrounding area.
It may not be a glamorous tourist site, but it’s one of the most interesting and authentic Portuguese towns on the map.

Ukraine: History, Culture and Some Fascinating Destinations

The summer of 2012 will be quite a popular one in Ukraine since the historic nation will be co-hosting the European Soccer Championships (Euro 2012) along with Poland. However, you don’t need to wait for a major soccer tournament to visit this fascinating country of about 47 million. In fact, you could easily spend a week in the famous capital of Kiev.
Ukraine is about 233,000 square miles in size and some of the languages you’ll hear there include Ukrainian, Romanian, Russian, Hungarian, and Polish. The country, which is just a little bigger than France and formerly belonged to the Soviet Union, is bordered to the west by the Carpathian Mountains and the south features the majestic Crimean Mountains.
However, the most famous region of the nation is known as the steppe, which is quite flat and stretches for about a thousand miles.

(photo by jwsk)

There’s a lot of history in Ukraine as Russian Orthodoxy was born here. The land was ruled in the 13^th century by the Mongols, followed the next century by the Lithuanians, and then the Polish in the mid 1500s. The Cossacks, who were peasant rebels, revolted and in 1649 created their own state. However, 5 years later they joined forces with Russia and soon came under Russian rule.
Russia controlled about 85% Ukraine, with Austria/Hungary in charge of the rest of it. The nation became independent for a period following the Russian Revolution.
However, it was invaded by the Red Army and by 1920 the majority of the nation was again ruled by the Russians. During World War II, Ukraine was in the hands of the Nazis and millions of people, lost their lives while about two million others were sent to Germany to become laborers.
The Soviet again took control following the war. However, in 1991 about 90% of Ukraine voted for its independence and the Soviet regime was toppled. These are some of the most fascinating destination to explore on a visit to Ukraine.

1. Belgorod-Dnestrovsky

(photo by cristianocani)

This ancient, small city has been around as long as Athens, Rome, and Jerusalem, making it one of the oldest in the world. Greek merchants inhabited it in the 6^th century and started to grow.
In the 13^th century, a fortress was built and protected by a deep moat. It was a medieval architectural masterpiece and was constructed with secret passages and towers.

2. Kyiv

(photo by lord_yo)

Known in English as Kiev, this city is home to about 3,000,000 people and is the capital of the country. It’s a bustling metropolis that features some amazing arts and cultural venues such as the National Opera House, St. Sophia Cathedral, and the Church of St. Andrew. Art performances are very common and the city is overflowing with historical sites.

3. Odessa

(photo by veni)

This picturesque city is often referred to as the Pearl of the Sea. It’s quite vibrant and kisses the shores of the Black Sea. The city is about 200 years old, making it quite young by Ukrainian standards.
However, it’s still filled with attractions and history such as Deribasovskaya Street, Odessa Opera House, Arcadia beach, and the Potemkin Steps.

4. Lviv

(photo by schuilr)

This city was popular in medieval times due to its strategic location on the trade route between the Black and Baltic Seas. It’s currently a World Heritage Site and a former Soviet community.
There are numerous architectural styles in the city due to all of the historic influences of the nations that occupied it over the years. Fortunately, Lviv didn’t suffer serious bombing damage during the Second World War.
Some of the most popular and historic sites include Castle Hill, the Kornyakt Museum, and the Pid Synioyu Pliashkoyu Café.

4 Excellent Winter Adventures

You don’t have to be stuck inside when winter comes. There are plenty of places to warm up or enjoy the cold, snowy weather. These are 4 of the best winter getaways.

1. Namibia, Africa:

 

(photo credit: jries)

The coast of Namibia features mysterious shipwrecks, shifting sand dunes, and a wide variety of seabirds and migratory species. The coast kisses the South Atlantic Ocean and stretches for close to 1,000 miles.
The summer time in Namibia runs between November and April and it’s a popular time to visit the Namib Desert. The days are often damp, foggy, and a little cool, but at least they’re usually dry. The most popular seaside spot is Swakopmund and you can take a short flight to view the shipwrecks that are stuck in the sand as well as skeletons of whales at the isolated Skeleton Coast National Park.
The Sandwich Harbour Lagoon is a remote marine sanctuary that’s surrounded by huge sand dunes and is also a popular site. Another good spot is Walvis Bay Lagoon which is the home to thousands of flamingos. You can also kayak out into the water here to get close up look at seal colonies and dolphins over at Pelican Point. If you’d like to explore the wilderness there’s nowhere better than Sperrgebiet National Park, which is close to 5.5 million acres in size.

2. Fernie, British Columbia, Canada:

 

(photo credit: ateabutnoe)

Canada’s a winter wonderland once the snow hits and the Fernie Alpine Resort is one of the most popular locations in British Columbia’s Kootenay Rockies area. This region is known locally as Powder Highway because of the dozens of snowboard and ski resorts. It’s basically a 500-mile loop where you can enjoy the snow hills.
At 3,550 feet, Fernie is home to the largest vertical hill in the Rockies. Fernie also has 140 marked ski runs and 2,500 acres of alpine bowl skiing in 5 separate bowls. The ski resort and nearby mountain have been used in many Hollywood films due to their sheer beauty.
There are several types of accommodation here and the resort will be celebrating its 50^th birthday in 2012. Most weekends throughout the winter feature special events and festivals. The closest airport is in Cranbrook, which is about 60 minutes from Fernie by car.

3. Lake Placid, New York, USA:

 

(photo credit: foqus)

The Winter Olympics may not be taking place again until 2014 in Sochi, Russia, but they’re always on in Lake Placid, New York, home of the 1980 and 1932 Games. Visitors to this wonderful winter site can experience what it’s like to be a top-class athlete by zipping down the town’s slick bobsled runs with a professional brakeman and driver in tow.
You can also try out cross-country skiing, speed skating, and rifle shooting on some of the Olympic sports sites. This makes it an ideal location for people and families of all ages. There are family games to be enjoyed which recreate the Olympic atmosphere. This starts with the torch run and winds up with a realistic medal ceremony. Some of the events included in this tournament are snowboarding, skiing, hockey contests, curling, and target shooting.

4. The Antarctic Peninsula:

 

(photo credit: liamq)

The midnight sun is present in the Antarctic Peninsula during the austral summer. The temperature rises to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit and the wildlife is very active at this time of the year. It might be the highest, windiest, driest, and coldest continent on earth, but it’s a super place to visit between November and March.
Cruises head here from Ushuaia in Argentina, which is the southernmost city on the globe. While onboard you should be able to witness penguin chicks and seal pups that make the Falkland Islands their home. When you pass South Georgia, which is a sub-Antarctic island, you’ll be sailing by the wandering albatross as well as millions of breeding birds.
Antarctica doesn’t consist of any countries, but there are some research scientists busy at work down there. It is home to several types of penguins though along with orca whales and leopard seals. There are some tours which enable you to kayak between icebergs and hike across the ice-covered land to visit the penguins.

6 of the World’s Best Oceanside Views

With the world being covered in so much water it means there are thousands of locations in it where you can get some breathtaking ocean views from the land. These are among the best destinations on the planet for amazing views of both the land and the mighty oceans.

1. Scotland, St. John’s Head, Hoy, Orkney Islands:

 

(photo by paul_stephenson)

If you head to the charming island of Hoy and then venture to the northernmost spot, you’ll see the highest sea cliff in Britain, which is known as St. John’s Head. It’s home to some rough waters and can be quite a trek to reach the base of it.
If you don’t feel like hiking it you can get some excellent views from the local ferry which sails from Scrabster over to Stromness. If you reach the cliff when the sun goes down you’ll see some beautiful shades of red reflecting from it. If you take the ferry you’ll also be able to witness a 450-foot tall sea stack known as the Old Man of Hoy.

2. Spain, Son Marroig, Mallorca:

 

(photo by jurvetson)

There’s some exceptional scenery around the town of Son Marroig on Mallorca’s lovely north coast. There’s an old property here which dates back to the mid-1800s which features some great sweeping vistas that hang over the dramatic Na Foradada peninsula. The views are fantastic since there’s a 60 foot hole in the middle of the peninsula. There’s a museum at Son Marroig, which is the start of a two-mile route to Na Foradada.

3. Portugal, Sagres:

 

(photo credit: shawnnap)

The beautiful Portuguese city of Sagres is famous for more than its beer. It’s the most southwestern point in mainland Europe and the bay here offers some tremendous views of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is quiet adventurous, romantic, and historical. Prince Henry the Navigator headed to Sagres in the 1400s and opened the famous School of Navigation.
This is where cartographers and sailors learned their crafts before exploring the world’s seaways and navigating a route to India. It’s a small city that’s best explored by foot and Cape St. Vincent is just a stone’s throw away from the bay.

4. Ireland, Dun Aengus, Aran Islands:

 

(photo by majad3v)

This destination is home to one of the most amazing cliff forts in Europe. The fort consists of 3 semicircles which have been constructed with ancient stone walls. The cliff that it sits on is about 330 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. From the court of the fort you’ll be presented with some fabulous views of the distant Connemara coast and a small island named Inishmore.
You can reach the fort by ferry from several locations including Rossaveal, and Doolin. The main town on Aran is the picturesque Kilronan.

5. Mexico, Mirador Escenico, San Carlos:

 

(photo by merlinvx)

The gorgeous ocean lookout of Miarador Escenico is located just a few miles down the road from wonderful San Carlos. The views peer across the Gulf of California which features a volcanic hill that dramatically reaches out of the water. There are also several pretty isolated coves, including Playa Piedras Pintas.
When reaching Mirador you should also see some interesting marine life such as whales, pelicans, and dolphins. You can head out into the Sea of Cortes in the gulf by kayak and explore the scenery. Fishing boats can also be rented in San Carlos. Most people head there for fishing and sailing between the months of November and May.

6. Iceland, Látrabjarg:

 

(photo by rwhgould)

The Westfjords are known as the most isolated area in Iceland. Here you’ll find an amazing bird cliff that’s filled with a huge colony of razorbills. It’s also the westernmost point in Europe and the Latrabjarg cliff can be found here. It’s close to nine miles long and just over 1,450 feet in height. There are some white sandy beaches below and the Snæfellsjokull glacier can be seen sticking out of the misty waters. Latrabjarg is about 35 miles from  the charming village of Patreksfjorour.

Romantic Destinations for Valentines

by CajunMama

I’m a romantic at heart and love to hear stories of couples stealing away for a few days of romance. In fact, my travel writing career began by writing about romantic destinations and honeymoons. One thing many couples forget as they become parents, is that one day their kids will grow up and its just the two of them again. Just because you are parents doesn’t mean romance should go flying out the window.
There are a few elements that make a place romantic in my book. There has to be a touch of luxury, with plush bedding, a big bathtub, a shower for two. There has to be Champagne and good wine available. The atmosphere is full of love and a hint of mystery. And the place needs to be downright dreamy. Keep in mind that when these elements combine, the price is not always for those on a budget. But who can put a price on love? Here are some of my favorite romantic destinations I’ve visited over the years:
The Florida Keys, FL - One of the most romantic places I ever visited was the very private Little Palm Island. You can only get there by boat and the bungalows are to-die-for gorgeous. There are a limited number of guests allowed on Little Palm Island, giving you the ultimate in privacy. The Florida Keys offer a number of romantic places to overnight, but Little Palm Island is the tops of them all. Rates run between $800-1500 per night, depending on room choice and season.

Natchitoches, LA - Any true Southerner knows of Steel Magnolias, but did you know that Natchitoches, LA is the site where the movie was filmed? There’s a B&B on every corner, and the downtown area on the Cane River is adorable. Two of my favorites are the Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast and Andrew Morris House Bed and Breakfast. Both offer intimate luxury, yet with an affordable price tag. Rates at these two properties run from $130-$185 per night, breakfast included.

London, UK - The Capital Hotel London located in Knightsbridge is full of warmth and discreet elegance in the middle of this posh area. The accommodations are sumptuous and located a few steps from Harrod’s. The wine list at The Capital Restaurant is supposedly one of the best in London. My room of choice? The two bedroom suite, which offers a private entrance and all the luxury one would expect for such an exclusive property. Room rates vary, starting at around $270 per night for a single room.

Saint-Tropez, France – Pink Champagne, onsite spa, guazey white bedcurtains, and sweeping views  all set inside a chateau. This is romance at Chateau de la Messardiere. I was fortunate enough to spend a few nights in a Junior Suite, which offers a private terrace for breakfast or sun worship, a spa-like bath, and even a small sitting area. This exclusive property is the ultimate in privacy, set on 10 hectares of gardens and lavender fields overlooking the Port of Saint-Tropez.

Moab, UT – I was blown away and surprised by Moab, Utah so much that I had to return for a second visit. It’s an outdoor enthusiast dream set near a number of US National Parks. Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa is set riverside on the Colorado River in the outskirts of Moab. The River View Deluxe Suites are rustic elegance with plush bedding, a romantic porch, and a gorgeous picture window in the bathroom, framing the large tub. Combined with the fine dining onsite and the area’s best spa, this red rock mesa resort is mountain romance at its finest. Rates start at $425 per night.

Taos, NM – There’s just something about Taos that pulls at one’s soul. I enjoyed a nice stay at El Monte Sagrado, one of the most sacred places in the area. Numerous celebrities steal away for privacy and romance at this Kessler property. Dreamy tub? Yes. Plush bedding? Yes. Balcony with stars? Yes. Onsite spa? Yes. Does all this make for one romantic getaway? I say yes. Room rates for a mountain king room start at $189 per night.
Victoria, BC – Victoria’s Inner Harbour is romantic all the way around. A walk around Butchart Gardens is like stepping into a fairytale. For lodging, the Magnolia Hotel and Spa is one of the top hotels in Canada. The rooms are decorated in Old World elegance, with soaking tubs complete with a full line of bath amenities. An onsite spa and delicious dining in the steakhouse roundout this small hotel with big amenities. Rooms start at $169 per night for a standard room.
I could go on and on about romantic destinations for Valentines or anytime. If you are looking for a romantic escape, be sure the destination is a place that offers something that both of you like, be it activities, room amenities, or a romantic view. No matter where you decide to go on your romantic escape, being with the one you love is truly what makes the place special.

Best Places to Propose on Valentine’s Day

We know Valentine’s Day is a few days away but if you want to wow your significant other, the time to plan is now. Especially if you want to wow her (or him!) with a proposal. We’re sure any kind of proposal could have your special someone crying tears of joy in no time. But if you really want to make it a proposal to remember, whisk your better half away on a romantic getaway and propose at one of our favorite romantic spots.

The Hotel: Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole

The Harvest Dance Suite at the Spring Creek Ranch; Jackson Hole, WY

Set in a wildlife refuge more than 700 feet above the Jackson Valley, the Spring Creek Ranch has arguably the most stunning views of the Tetons in the area. It has a wide array of room categories, from standard hotel rooms to immense two-bedroom condos, and he delicious, popular restaurant and the excellent heated outdoor pool are not to be missed.
Best Spots for Proposing:
If your soon-to-be-fiance is the active type, strap on your snowshoes and take her to a secluded spot on one of the property’s many trails. Beside the lake or in the teepee are also romantic spots for popping the question.

The Hotel: Geejam in Jamaica

Balcony at The Drum and Bass Suite at the Geejam; Port Antonio, Jamaica

The Geejam is made up of only five private, high-tech cottages on the lush (rainy) foothills of Port Antonio. The setting is gorgeous, the service is extraordinary, and one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches is only 10 minutes away.
Best Spots for Proposing:
A love song can make any girl (and some guys, too) swoon. Bring your significant other to the recording studio and serenade her with a song asking “Will you marry me?” Or if vocals aren’t really your thing, book a suite with an ocean view and get down on one knee.

Hotel: &Beyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp in Botswana

The Safari Tent at the &Beyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp; Botswana

This ultra-remote, luxurious safari lodge on an island in Botswana’s Okavango Delta isn’t a hotel, it’s an experience, where everything — including the excellent food and the guided excursions (game drives, bush walks, river cruises) — is included in the price of the stay. Guests can get up close to exotic wildlife on both land and water (think: lions and hippos), and even arriving to the property is an adventure, requiring transport by small plane, safari vehicle, and a boat. The nine safari “tents” are fully screened in and thoroughly high-end, with huge soaking tubs, four-poster beds, lots of wood, and private pools.
Best Spots for Proposing:
Your valentine may be gaga for Prince William but that’s just because he’s a hopeless romantic (and the British accent certainly doesn’t hurt). Propose like a royal (William proposed to Kate Middleton in a secluded cabin in Kenya) by popping the question in one of the camp’s luxurious, airy tents. Beside the private pool is a great spot.

Hotel: Calistoga Ranch, An Auberge Resort in Napa Valley

Outdoor Living Room in the Two Bedroom Lodge at the Calistoga Ranch, An Auberge Resort; Napa Valley, CA

It’s no wonder royalty, A-list celebrities, and athletes keep returning to the luxury Calistoga Ranch: It’s in a class all by itself. Guests rent exquisite private lodges, set on a private 157-acre park-like property complete with hiking trails and a top-of-the-line restaurant and spa. Attention to detail carries over from room design to landscape planning — all modules for the lodges were flown in by helicopter to minimize impact on surrounding trees and to maximize privacy. The property boasts plenty of activities, including outdoor yoga, a beautiful heated outdoor pool, a bocce court, a fabulous fitness center, and wine tasting seminars.
Best Spots for Proposing:
Just about everywhere at Calistoga Ranch is romantic enough for a proposal. If you’ll need some liquid courage, take your better half to the private wine cave. Or if you want to keep it really intimate and cozy, snuggle up in front of the working fireplace in the room or soak in the private Jacuzzi.

Hotel: Travaasa Hana in Maui

Infinity Pool at the Travaasa Hana; Maui, HI

The Travaasa Hana hotel overlooking Hana Bay delivers rustic luxury in the middle of Maui‘s lush, secluded east coast. Incredible service, top spa, excellent food, a long list of stuff to do, and only 70 rooms on acres of uncrowded property. The rooms are large, clean, sleekly furnished — and stripped of TVs, clocks, and radios. Hard to reach, but worth the trip.
Best Spots for Proposing:
Situated along craggy cliffs on the rainforest-like east coast of Maui, hours from other big resorts, the Travaasa offers guests ample chances to be alone (and get down on one knee!). Nearby waterfalls and hidden beaches are ideal for a romantic proposal after a hike (the concierge can direct you on how to get to them) and afterwards couples can take a dip in the infinity pool or the Honua Spa’s outdoor lava-rock pool.